Category Archives: Motorcycle News

Suzuka 8 Hour pushed back to November 1

FIM Endurance World Championship

The 2020 Suzuka 8 Hours initially scheduled to be held on 19 July 2020 has been pushed back to a new date: Sunday 1 November.

Kaoru Tanaka, President of Mobilityland Corporation

“We had been preparing for the ‘Coca-Cola’ Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race to be held in July, but have decided to postpone it in consideration of the current situation in which there is prohibition of large-scale events that attract large numbers of people and restriction of travel is expected to continue to increase in European countries. We ask for the kind understanding of all the fans who were looking forward to attending the Suzuka 8 Hours for this unavoidable postponement and of all the other stakeholders involved in this race event. We will make due preparations so that we can welcome the start of the event on November 1st together with all the fans and stakeholders involved in this event.”

With border entry restrictions currently in effect in Japan making it impossible for Suzuka to host teams and riders from countries affected by coronavirus, the race has been postponed to later in the year.

Historically held in summer, ever since the first edition in 1978, the Suzuka 8 Hours will take place for the very first time in Autumn in 2020. In close collaboration with race organizer Mobilityland, the iconic Japanese race was promoted to the status of FIM EWC grand finale in 2017.

Jorge Viegas, FIM President

“Who would have ever imagined that the 8 Hours of Suzuka would have to be postponed just a few weeks ago? However, we must keep strong and do whatever is in our power to return to racing, as soon as possible, without taking any unnecessary risks. I am sure that the faithful spectators of Suzuka will enjoy a great show again and that this iconic race will retain its special place in the FIM Endurance World Championship. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the efforts of the Japanese Motorcycling Federation (MFJ), Mobilityland Corporation and of course Eurosport Events!”

As the FIM EWC season final event, the 8-hour race will benefit from the bonus of 150% of the points.

FIM EWC Calendar

FIM EWC Calendar

Updated 2020 FIM EWC Calendar

The FIM, Eurosport Events and the various race organizers have together restructured the ongoing season calendar to ensure the number of races initially scheduled in the championship take place. The 2019-2020 season will therefore continue with the 24 Heures Motos (29 and 30 August 2020) followed by the Bol d’Or (19 and 20 September), and conclude with the FIM EWC grand finale at Suzuka on 1 November. 

François Ribeiro, Head of Eurosport Events

“The global health crisis, the logistical constraints resulting from Japan’s entry restrictions and our priority to protect the health of everyone involved in the FIM EWC, have made it necessary to postpone the Suzuka 8 Hours. Praise is due to Mobilityland for adapting the Suzuka calendar to ensure that this major race in the championship remains Japan’s biggest celebration for motorcycling fans. To help teams with their logistics requirements in the opening phase of the 2020-2021 FIM EWC season, we will push back the date of the 8 Hours of Sepang to January if necessary, just ahead of the customary SBK/GP pre- tests on the circuit.”

FIM EWC Suzuka Hour FCC TSR Honda France

FIM EWC Suzuka Hour FCC TSR Honda France

FCC TSR Honda France at the 2019 Suzuka 8 Hour
Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati and MV ease back to production

Ducati and MV Agusta will ease back into production again from today in “phase 2” restrictions after an almost six-week lockdown due to the coronavirus.

While supply of some models will take some time to meet orders, the good news is that R&D on new models has continued largely unabated by staff working remotely.

The factories join several other manufacturers in gradually returning to full production over the next few weeks in factories that have been disinfected and reorganised to provide more space between workers who will wear masks.

It may take several weeks to wind back up to full production with some delays on new models and spare parts.

UPDATE: Piaggio which makes Vespa, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi, will resume production on 4 May 2020 when the national lockdown decree expires.

Strict rulesDUCATI MOTOR HOLDING premium

Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali says they have paid close attention to strict rules of compliance.

“It will be an extremely difficult year but starting up again is still a beginning,” he says.

“We have a lot of orders for the Streetfighter V4, for the Multistrada GT and for the Panigale V2.

“The motorbike is a perfect vehicle for ‘phase two’: no parking problems and distancing guaranteed; safety and fun at the same time.”

The gradual improvement in health conditions and a reduction of infections and deaths in Italy has allowed the government to ease restrictions on factories making goods for export.

Phase 2 will allow a gradual return to production.

Ducati factory

In Ducati’s case it starts with workshop staff, followed by engine assembly workers and from tomorrow (28 April 2020), motorcycle assembly workers. 

The production has been reorganised, going from an eight-hour shift to two seven-hour shifts to reduce the number of people in the plant at the same time.

Employees in the commercial, marketing, IT, personnel management, finance, purchasing and logistics areas will continue to work from home.

Technicians engaged in Research and Development activities who cannot do their work from home had already returned to work.

That includes engineers in the engine test rooms, motorcycle testers and laboratory testers.

All designers, project managers, and those in the calculation department will work remotely. This will ensure the deliveries of Ducati motorcycles and the development of new products.

Public visits to the factory remain closed as is the upstairs museum.

Ducati museum - Buyers ducati world theme parkThe factory Ducati museum

Ducati sales

Claudio says the stop in production in March and April has already had “negative effects on sales”. 

“The Chinese market is already booming, sales in Korea and Japan are doing well. In Germany, dealers have been open for a week and we already have a major shortage of product. 

“I really believe that this restart can allow us to reduce at least in part the negative effects of the lockdown that we were forced to respect, unfortunately at the worst time.”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Twisted ASBK Interviews | Cru Halliday

Twisted ASBK Interviews

With the current break in racing activity we thought it a good idea to start rolling out this series that I have dubbed ‘Twisted ASBK Interviews’. 

This is a somewhat comedic departure from the norm that hopes to shed some light into the personalities of ASBK Superbike riders.

Some of these were conducted in person at the track earlier this year, while others were conducted more recently over the phone. 

A few of them certainly got me laughing out loud and I hope you view them through the prism of good fun they were taken in. This time around we talk to Cru Halliday.


MCNews.com.au: Who is the dirtiest rider you least trust when racing against?

Cru Halliday: “I wouldn’t say dirty, but most aggressive is Troy Herfoss, dirtiest against me personally, probably Daniel Falzon.”

MCNews.com.au: Who would you most like to punch in the ASBK paddock?

Cru: “That’s a no brainer, Daniel Falzon.”

MCNews.com.au: Who would you least like to be punched by in the ASBK paddock?

Cru: “Probably Mat Mladin, he would pack some power out of those cannons.”

ASBK Wakefield Park Test TDJ Cru Halliday pit lane

ASBK Wakefield Park Test TDJ Cru Halliday pit lane

Cru Halliday at the Wakefield Park ASBK Test – Image TDJ


MCNews.com.au: If you were stuck on a deserted island, which rider would you choose to be stuck with?

Cru: “The best looking one.”

MCNews.com.au: Who is the king of swiping right during ASBK race weekends?

Cru: “Brodie Malouf, in the 600 class, he’s a grub.”

MCNews.com.au: Which rider has the hottest sister?

Cru: “I’m gonna get punched over this and he’s my team-mate, but I’d have to say Aiden Wagner.”

ASBK Rnd SMP RbMotoLens SBK FP Cru HALLIDAY

ASBK Rnd SMP RbMotoLens SBK FP Cru HALLIDAY

Cru Halliday – SMP 2019 – Image by Rob Mott


MCNews.com.au: Who is the biggest princess in the ASBK paddock?

Cru: “I’m going to have to go with Glenn Allerton.”

MCNews.com.au: Who has the most fitting nickname in the paddock?

Cru: “It’s not Mad Mike, there’s nothing mad about him. I’d have to say Wayne Train.”

ASBK Rnd SMP RbMotoLens SBK R Grid Cru Halliday Troy Herfoss FinalRnd

ASBK Rnd SMP RbMotoLens SBK R Grid Cru Halliday Troy Herfoss FinalRnd

Cru Halliday – Image by Rob Mott


MCNews.com.au: What is the worst track ASBK visits?

Cru: “Barbagallo.”

MCNews.com.au: Which corner on the calendar is your favourite?

Cru: “That’s a hard one… probably the stadium section at Tailem Bend.”

MCNews.com.au: Which corner would you liked to see nuked from orbit?

Cru: “Every corner at Phillip Island.”

MCNews.com.au: If you could overtake one rider, on one corner, who would it be, and where, and how?

Cru: “That could be any of the top 10 riders, anyone… Mike Jones, Turn 1, Phillip Island, as I’d like to see the Yamaha go past that dude for once.”

WSBK Rnd Phillip Island RbMotoLens ASBK R Cru Halliday

WSBK Rnd Phillip Island RbMotoLens ASBK R Cru Halliday

Cru Halliday – Image by Rob Mott


MCNews.com.au: Which animal would you most liken yourself to?

Cru: “Cat, because I’m a pussy.”

MCNews.com.au: You need to borrow tools. Who would you ask first? Who would you never ask?

Cru: “Probably to be honest, the BMW team, I wouldn’t ask Maxwell.”

MCNews.com.au: If you weren’t racing, what would you be in jail for?

Cru: “More than likely speeding.”

WSBK Rnd Phillip Island RbMotoLens ASBK Race Grid Cru Halliday

WSBK Rnd Phillip Island RbMotoLens ASBK Race Grid Cru Halliday

Cru Halliday on the grid at the 2020 ASBK season opener – Image by Rob Mott


MCNews.com.au: If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Cru: “How To Not Grow Up”

MCNews.com.au: How would you describe yourself in three words?

Cru: “I can’t swear on this… humble, laid back and loving.”

MCNews.com.au: If you won a million dollars on Lotto what would be the first thing you would buy?

Cru: “Probably a house, have to be a house, or another lotto ticket.”

ASBK Test Phillip Island RbMotoLens ASBK Test SBK Cru HALLIDAY

ASBK Test Phillip Island RbMotoLens ASBK Test SBK Cru HALLIDAY

Cru Halliday – Image by Rob Mott


MCNews.com.au: If you could keep one of your race bikes from throughout your career which one would it be? And why?

Cru: “Probably my 600 from 2018, because it was a championship I won in ASBK.”

MCNews.com.au: What is your plan for life after racing…?

Cru: “Grow old, put some money on the dogs in the TAB, sink some schooners and wear a wife-beater.”

ASBK TBG Rnd Winton Halliday TBG

ASBK TBG Rnd Winton Halliday TBG

Cru Halliday won the Australian Supersport Championship with Yamaha in 2018 – STBG Image
Source: MCNews.com.au

Yamaha TMAX 560 Review | Scooter Tests

Yamaha TMAX 560 Test

Motorcycle Test by Wayne Vickers – Image Rob Mott


Scooters. They’ve not quite established themselves in Australia as well as they have in Europe. Admittedly the boom in home delivery services has given them a proper sales nudge and I reckon the tide is turning. It’s easy to see why. They’re light, convenient, great in city traffic and for ducking about on. And then there’s the Maxi Scooter category, like the Yamaha TMAX 560. More of everything. Size, comfort, power, room, storage, pillion accommodation, everything. I spent some time on the new Tmax to try and get a feel for it.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Wayne tries the T-Max 560 on for size

You certainly notice the size straight away. It’s a big jigger. Positively massive in width across the seat. It’s like wrapping your legs around a horse. In fact I found myself sliding forwards a little on the seat when I knew I had to come to a stop, just so I could more easily put my foot down. For reference I’m just under 6ft (a smidge over 180cm). I guess that width is a by-product of having the very handy double helmet storage capacity under the seat, but it instantly conveys that this isn’t a nimble little urban jobby – it’s something different. That generous seat width also makes it a very comfy place to spend some time. Even longer haul highway hauls proved no issue at all.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens Airoh

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens Airoh

Generous under-seat storage on the T-Max 560

There’s a couple of important buttons on the bars to be aware of, one to power on and unlock (on the left), and one to power off and lock (on the right). The unlock also allows access to the fuel cap and cavernous underseat storage when the engine isn’t running. Otherwise it’s an auto-lock arrangement which is handy. And no you can’t accidentally lock your keys in there as it’s a fob set-up. So that’s sorted.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560 controls

The start up procedure is pretty straight forward, if a little different, due to the CVT gearbox meaning that there’s no neutral. So the bike can only be started after tapping the unlock button and then thumbing the starter button on the right to wake it up and fire the grunty little parallel twin into life. It’s worth noting that it will only fire up if you have the side stand up and at least one of the brakes engaged. So you either have to be already sitting on it before starting it up – or if you like to let the engine warm up while you put your helmet and gloves on like I do, then you need to throw it on the centre stand. Worth noting for those that park their bike nose in to the shed like I do. Give yourself some room to rock it off the centre stand if that’s your plan.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

As the CVT needs no clutch, in its place is a rear brake lever. Just like a mountain bike. Easy peasy. And decent brakes they are too. ABS jobbies at both ends with two calipers on the back (one activated by a park brake lever on the left of the bars). The ABS system works well, on both tarmac and gravel. Although to be fair, the TMAX’s smaller wheels make for a fairly exciting ride on loose sandy gravel with corrugations… Not really designed for that. Speaking of suspension – it’s fit for the job and all but the bigger hits are soaked up quite nicely. Bigger potholes do pass through a bit of a whack though. I think that’s as much to do with the feet forward riding position which means you can’t brace for impact or quickly lift your arse off the seat – so your butt and spine cop the load.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

On the go the TMAX is a genuinely fun thing. That little twin and CVT combo offers a deceptive amount of performance. It positively slingshots from a stand-still and certainly brings a grin to your face as you rocket away from the lights. Wind that throttle on and it’ll sing at around 5 and a half grand or a little more and seamlessly pile on the speed. Ignore the power output as it doesn’t tell you the full story. It’s easily as quick if not quicker than a 100 hp bike with a regular box out of the blocks. And it’ll pull pretty much all the way around that analogue speedo…

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

That dash is one of my gripes though. Extremely reflective covers on both the speedo and tacho meant that on my commute which is into the sun each direction, the dials were at times nearly unreadable – all I could see was the reflection of my own chest. And the LCD screen in the middle seems like a bit of a missed opportunity.. Lots of space for not much more useful info other than a gear indicator and fuel gauge. Oh well. There is a handy little compartment on the right with a power outlet though – big enough for your phone, sunnies, wallet and probably a can of coke. Easily charge your phone while you’re on the go. Nice.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

Styling wise I reckon it cuts a pretty good figure too. Very Euro looking. Sure there’s plenty of plastic, with a few different materials (all quite good quality) but it’s surfaced quite nicely. I am fairly partial to the satin paint look too. Most bugs came off fairly easily with just a blast of the karcher too – without needing any detergent so I’d assume living with it long term wouldn’t be too much of a chore keeping it clean and looking mint.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

The generous fairing and screen offer terrific protection from the wind and weather, with no buffeting at any speed. And there’s plenty of room to stretch the pins out and stick them well forward. It’s honestly an odd feeling at first for someone who doesn’t see much scooter time – and certainly when combined with the Tmax’s low centre of gravity it makes it a little weird dynamically until you get used to it. You just need a little time to adapt and then you’re away and having fun.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

Two-up it would be a fine thing no doubt with all that seat acreage available. Solid grab rails would make day trips a doddle for your pillion. And range is bang on 300ks if you throw in a bit of highway work, so you’d easily throw some distance down in a day.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

I know plenty of folks who rate these pretty highly and I can see why. At the same time I’m in two minds. There’s plenty to like about it, but then it also doesn’t have the agility that makes smaller scooters such a giggle amongst traffic. So as a category the Maxi’s are competing against ‘regular’ bikes in my mind. And at 16 and a half grand it has plenty of serious competition, even from within Yamaha’s own ranks. The MT09SP is a serious chunk of change less and that’s a hell of a bike. One you could throw some luggage on if you chose to… And if you wanted more flexibility again, then the Tracer GT is not a lot more coin at 20 and a half. But I’m probably showing my personal biases there. There’s a reason these things are popular in Europe…

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

Final word. As I was returning the bike I bumped into another TMAX mounted rider. Needless to say he was fairly interested in the new model. After we exchanged pleasantries I asked him what it was that drew him to the Maxi scoot. ‘It’s just perfect! Plenty of storage for shopping or day trips. I can just jump on it and go anytime without much thought. And the girl loves being on the back – she’s much more comfortable on these than regular bikes.’ Can’t argue with that.

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMax RbMotoLens

Yamaha TMAX 560

Why I like it
Cuts a stylishly Euro look.
Surprisingly quick. No seriously!
Massive underseat storage. And in dash storage too.
Enviable protection from the elements
I’d like it even more if
Is it too big?
That dash needs a rethink
It ain’t cheap

Yamaha TMAX 560 Specifications

Engine
Engine Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve
Displacement  562 cc
Bore x Stroke  70 mm x 73 mm
Compression Ratio 10.9 : 1
Lubrication System Dry Sump
Fuel Management Fuel Injection
Ignition TCI
Starter System Electric
Fuel Tank Capacity 15.0 L
Final Transmission Belt
Transmission  V-Belt Automatic
Chassis
Frame Type Aluminium CF die-cast
Suspension Front Telescopic forks, 120mm travel
Suspension Rear Swingarm, 117mm travel
Brakes Front Hydraulic dual discs, 267mm – ABS
Brakes Rear Hydraulic single disc, 282mm – ABS
Tyres Front 120/70R15M/C 56H Tubeless
Tyres Rear 160/60R15M/C 67H Tubeless
Dimensions
Length  2200 mm
Width 765 mm
Height 1420 mm / 1555 mm
Seat Height 800 mm
Wheelbase 1575 mm
Ground Clearance 125 mm
Wet Weight 218 kg
RRP $16,599 +ORC

Yamaha TMAX 560 Images

By Rob Mott

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati kicks production back into gear today in Bologna

Ducati head back to work

In compliance with the regulatory protocol for measures to combat and contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus in the workplace, Ducati temporarily suspended production in its Bologna plant on Friday 13 March to reorganise production schedules. Then came the decree that suspended all non-essential activities and therefore, despite the organisation being ready, production did not restart.

The gradual improvement in health conditions has allowed the government today to enable companies deemed strategic for the national economy, whose activity is mainly aimed at exports, and for which a prolongation of the suspension would risk losing our country additional market shares, to resume production.

This is a first phase of return, which at the moment will only involve a part of the workers destined for the production lines. Workshop staff will begin first, then engine assembly workers and, from Tuesday 28 April, motorcycle assembly workers.

As for employees, the use of smart working will remain mandatory, only those who are not in a position to carry out their work from home will be allowed to access the factory. All resources employed in the commercial, marketing, IT, personnel management, finance, purchasing and logistics areas will therefore be working remotely.

The production has been reorganised, going from an eight-hour shift to two seven-hour shifts to allow the minimum number of people to be inside the plant at the same time and thus minimize possible contact. The canteen will be active but with one seat for every four chairs.

The technicians engaged in Research and Development activities who cannot do their work from home were already at work as allowed by the specific ATECO code: therefore the engineers of the engine test rooms, those who carry out motorcycle tests and those who carry out laboratory testing are all present at Borgo Panigale.

All designers, project managers, and those in the calculation department will work remotely. This will ensure the deliveries of Ducati motorcycles and the development of new products.

All the rules of conduct in force in Ducati comply with the updated shared protocol of April 24, and for some points they are even more restrictive. For example, inside the company there is an absolute requirement to use masks, regardless of distancing. The entire Ducati protocol is the result of the work of a joint commission between the company and the RSU (unified worker representation body) that was formed on February 23, just two days after the discovery of the first infected person in Italy.

Many of the measures inserted are the result of a careful analysis of the protocols used in the Chinese plants of the VW Group, in particular the FAW-VW of Chanchung, where production was suspended only for one week but where strict protection, distancing and sanitizing measures are still in force.

Claudio Domenicali, Ducati CEO

“We are ready to go, we have worked hard over the past few weeks to minimize any risk. Despite this we will have to be extremely cautious and rigorous. The virus is still in circulation and we must therefore be careful to combat any possible form of transmission. This is the reason why all the people present in the factory will wear masks, we must protect the population from the presence of asymptomatic positives who, although in a very small percentage, are present today and will not be identified by the mandatory temperature test.

“Serological tests can help but they represent only a snapshot; they should be repeated every day before entry, and this is obviously extremely difficult. This is why masks and distancing are so important.

“We will obviously adapt the protocols to the evolution of the health situation and to the indications given by the State and the Emilia-Romagna Region. We have been in constant touch with President Bonaccini, whom I thank for the support, with councillor Colla and with commissioner Venturi to prepare us better for this eventuality.

“The two-wheel market is highly seasonal, and the stop to production in March and April has already had negative effects on sales. The Chinese market is already booming, sales in Korea and Japan are doing well. In Germany, dealers have been open for a week and we already have a major shortage of product. I really believe that this restart can allow us to reduce at least in part the negative effects of the lockdown that we were forced to respect, unfortunately at the worst time.

“We have a splendid order book: the brand-new Streetfighter V4 just launched has obtained unanimous approval from the specialised press and is the undisputed queen of the category. Unfortunately, production was halted just one month after the start. Then there are also many orders for the Multistrada 1260 S Grand Tour and for the Panigale V2. We also have the empty warehouses of the Multistrada 950 and Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO.

“I am convinced that in this ‘phase two’, the bike will prove to be an extraordinary means of combining fun, passion and the possibility of having a vehicle with which to spend the weekend but also to move around quickly and safely in the city, without any problems of parking or social distancing. I want to thank all Ducati employees who have patiently and collaboratively managed this very anomalous phase and are supporting us in the management of the restart.”

Despite the reopening of the production lines, Ducati confirms that visits to the Museum, Factory and Fisica in Moto continue to be suspended until further notice, in addition to entry into the factory being prohibited for suppliers, dealers, external contracted companies, and external staff in general, unless proven and unavoidably required for the continuity of production activities, product development and general services.

Ducati Panigale V S

Ducati Panigale V S

Ducati Panigale V4 S
Source: MCNews.com.au

Around the world with The Bear | Part 29 | Bulgaria to London

Motorcycle Touring

The King of Every Kingdom
Around the world on a very small motorcycle

With J. Peter “The Bear” Thoeming

Don’t trust the Hungarians, according to the Romanians. And vice versa. Just as well they’re all good people.


The Eastern Bloc, and back to England

The customs man at the Bulgarian border asked us for third-party insurance, which we no longer had. When I told him this, he rolled his eyes heavenwards and waved us through – he couldn’t be bothered getting the forms out.

Bulgarian roads were pretty nasty, mostly cobble stoned and wavier than the Bay of Biscay in a gale. Someone once said that the potholes were the size of small planets. Big moons, maybe. Fields were being ploughed by small tractors with treads instead of wheels, possibly lightly converted tanks.

We felt our way gingerly through the forested hills to Veliko Tarnovo. The campsite there turned out to be the most expensive of the trip, but at least it had plenty of hot water for the showers, although I cannot for the life of me imagine why the taps were electrified…

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part Quote

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part Quote

Perhaps some of the cost of the site was an entertainment charge. We were certainly entertained, by singing and revelry, until about 2.30am. It was a party of East Germans who were no doubt glad to be away from the Stasi. We in our turn were glad to get out of Bulgaria after our extensive stay of 24 hours – that was all the time our visa gave us.

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

Accommodation could at times be expensive, but a hot shower was always appreciated

Good thing, too. Among other things, the roads had finally done what even the Yugoslav ones had not managed— they had broken the bike’s luggage rack.

Romanian Customs must have had us pegged as International Drug Runners. They searched everything on and off the bike, even though their drug-sniffing dog didn’t show the slightest interest in us.

The highlight of the ceremony came when one of the male customs officers found a suspicious small cardboard box filled with what looked like miniature white sticks of explosive, with fuse attached. Neither of us spoke Romanian, and Annie finally got through with a bit of French.

“Pour Madame,” she said. The customs officer looked at the box of tampons, went bright red and couldn’t give them back quickly enough.

We then had to change $10 per day of our visit into the local currency and should also, apparently, have bought petrol coupons. Nobody told us anything about them, so we rode blithely off. As it turned out, only one petrol station asked for them, and they filled our tank anyway when we shrugged our shoulders.

The roads were noticeably better than the ones in Bulgaria, and we made it to Bucharest for lunch. We ate at the Carul cu Bere, a restaurant in an 18th-century inn. The food here was superb, beer came in great stoneware steins and was delicious, and it was all quite cheap.

I know the people were being oppressed by the government, but everyone we saw seemed cheerful enough – even the ones eating the awful greasy ice cream. Ben and Jerry’s, Romania is yours for the taking.

It was frustrating trying to find somewhere to camp. Most of the sites listed in the official booklet (another damned official booklet) were either closed or had disappeared. One was even closed for stocktaking!

“One tree, check. Grass, sort of, 80 square metres, check. Pile of gravel, one of. Where’s the pile of gravel, Karoly?”

When we finally found a site the bike immediately attracted a crowd of truck drivers. While they were admiring the twin disc brakes up front, one drew me aside. He told me that he was Hungarian, and to be sure to lock everything up. The Romanians, it seemed, were all thieves.

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

Official channels were not reliable in those days when it came to which camp sites were open

Marvelous, I thought. Later a Romanian told me that Hungarians would sell their grandmothers for a packet of cigarettes. Why do neighbours always delight in blackening each other’s names?

This slanderous tendency isn’t restricted to morals. When I made a disparaging remark about the Bulgarian roads, all the Romanians were tickled. One of them pointed to the dirt track we were on and suggested that that was what the Bulgarian roads were like. I said no, worse, and he pointed to the ploughed field next to the campsite. When I nodded, they roared with laughter and then bought us beer.

We had a race with a diesel locomotive up into the Transylvanian Alps and lost when we came to a red light. It was unfair – there was no red light for the train. These mountains are beautiful and full of old chateaux and grand hotels from the days before Communism. Most of them had been turned into workers’ holiday hostels – one improvement, anyway. We saw no signs of direct bloodsucking.

Somewhere in the north of Romania we lost the rubber plug out of the cam chain tensioner. I manufactured a new one from rolled-up adhesive tape and wired it into place – it seemed to do the job very nicely. We were once again trying to find a replacement gas bottle, and in Oradea near the Hungarian border finally found a gas depot.

It was closed, but there were some people outside and one of them took our empty bottle, passed it through the fence to somebody inside and got a new one back for us, free of charge. Nice people everywhere, or maybe they just enjoy sticking a thumb into Authority’s eye.

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

The locals proved friendly everywhere we went, although the rivalry between nations was obvious

The border with Hungary was easy, except that once again we had trouble changing unwanted money back. It’s against the law to take Romanian money out of the country but they wouldn’t give us anything else, so we had to spend our remaining cash on the el cheapo souvenir wooden plates with pokerwork decorations which were the only things for sale. Could this have been deliberate?

The roads to Budapest were smooth and straight and almost unbelievably flat. With conservative and polite drivers as well, Hungary is one of the most pleasant countries in Europe to ride in, although things weren’t quite so easy in Budapest.

Annie checked with the Tourist Bureau and they told her that the campsite was closed, which seemed a bit unlikely to us. We rode out there just to make sure and lo! not only was it open, but it was open the whole year round, and it was a pleasant enough site despite the loud disco music from the restaurant at night. Isn’t it great to see Western culture spread behind the Iron Curtain?

Budapest has excellent public transport and is an altogether prosperous city. The people still didn’t look happy though, and the truckloads of Russian soldiers we saw were pointedly ignored. We took the road along the Danube on our way to the Austrian border and were rewarded by quiet country lanes and lush greenery.

The border was quick as they were only searching cars, not bikes. There’s a tip there, unless they change over on even days… As we rode into Vienna that afternoon, the back wheel of the Yamaha started making the most peculiar scraping noise. I tracked it down to a shoelace caught in the rear brake caliper.

An overnight stay in Vienna, in a clean and well-equipped campsite, and we were on our way again – no more time for sightseeing. The border with Germany is a one-stop affair – the guards showed our passports to a computer, which raised no objections, and we were simultaneously out and in. Coming into Passau, we started chatting to a bloke on an ancient BMW outfit, and he showed us a good pub for lunch.

We camped in Nuremberg that night, near the stadium made famous by the big Nazi rallies. It’s a parking lot now, which seems appropriate. The campsite was excellent, as all German campsites seem to be. Then it was up the Autobahn, on to Brunswick and a few days with relatives.

Then a long day across to Ostend and the late ferry to Dover. Due to delays on the ferry – it kept yo-yoing around in Dover harbour – and problems with the ramp, we didn’t get ashore until well after midnight.

The Customs man asked us where we’d been and wasn’t at all impressed by the 18 countries I rattled off. He just asked whether we’d picked up any ‘noxious substances’ and when we said no, we didn’t think so, let us go.

Miracles do still happen. There was a bed-and-breakfast place still open on the Folkestone road, and the first thing our landlady did was offer us a cup of tea. We were back in England, all right.

The run to London was just a formality. We were back, 194 days, 20,000 miles and £2000 after we’d set out. A great trip, albeit with its ups and downs. And then there was the next one…

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

Around the world with The Bear Peter Thoeming Part

After 20,000 miles Annie and The Bear arrive back in London but the journey is not over


Yes, this isn’t the end. America is yet to come, back on the old Honda XL250 and in a place where everyone remembers Kings Cross.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Riders charged after two police pursuits

Two motorcyclists riding at speeds up to 200km/h have been charged following two separate pursuits with NSW Police in Sydney’s south west.

This is the type of stupid behaviour that brings all riders into disrepute.

It may also delay an easing of pandemic travel restrictions as Queensland plans to do from next Saturday.

Here is the NSW Police media release about these two pursuits:

Officers from Bankstown Traffic and Highway Patrol – with the assistance of South West Metropolitan Region Enforcement Squad (RES), the Dog Unit, and PolAir – conducted Operation Bluey on Friday (24 April 2020) and Saturday (25 April 2020), targeting high performance motorcycles engaged in dangerous riding practices and pursuits with police.

Pursuit 1

About 8.20pm on Friday (24 April 2020), officers were stopped on Rawson Road, Greenacre, when they saw a BMW s1000 RR travelling on Rawson Road before crossing to the incorrect side of the road and turning right into Waterloo Road, disobeying a red traffic light.

BMW S 1000 RR less flab deliveryBMW S 1000 RR

A pursuit was not initiated and despite patrols, the motorcycle could not be located.

A short time later, the motorcycle was seen travelling on Juno Parade before allegedly speeding away at no less than 100km/h before crossing to the incorrect side of the road and turning left into Nobel Avenue.

Further police allegedly sighted the motorcycle turn left into Mimosa Road and allegedly speed away at no less than 120km/h in a signposted 50km/h zone.

With the assistance of PolAir, the motorcycle was monitored as it travelled to a home on Wangee Road, where it was ridden through the front door and parked in the lounge room.

Shortly after, officers entered the home and the rider, a 24-year-old man, was arrested.

He was charged with motor vehicle exceed speed more than 45km/h – estimated, drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous, and vehicle number plate not correctly fixed.

The man is due to appear at Bankstown Local Court on Wednesday 29 July 2020.

Pursuit 2

2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R at Moto Expo2017 Suzuki GSX-R1000R at Moto ExpoGSX-R1000

About 11pm yesterday (25 April 2020), officers patrolling King Georges Road, Wiley Park, saw a Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle, carrying a pillion passenger. The rear number plate was obscured.

With the assistance of PolAir, the motorcycle was monitored. Officers attempted to stop it nearby on Canterbury Road; however, it failed to stop and allegedly sped away at 160km/h in a signposted 60km/h zone.

A pursuit was initiated before being terminated shortly after due to safety concerns.

The motorcycle was again seen travelling on King Georges Road, riding only on its back wheel before allegedly speeding away at least 200km/h.

PolAir continued to monitor the motorcycle as it travelled to Greenacre, where the pillion passenger got off.

Shortly after, officers attended a nearby home and located the rider, who was the holder of a P1 licence and disqualified from driving until 2032.

The 23-year-old man was arrested and taken to Bankstown Police Station where he was charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, drive recklessly/furiously or speed/manner dangerous, drive during disqualification period, and vehicle number plate obscured.

He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Sunday 26 April 2020).

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Riding restrictions eased in Queensland

Queensland is the first state to relax harsh travel restrictions and will allow riders back on their motorcycles for a ride up to 50km from home.

Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk has announced the new rules from next Saturday (2 May 2020).

Adventure riders will also be allowed to ride through some national parks so long as they are within 50km of home.

For most Brisbane riders, that would mean they would get half way up Mt Glorious before having to turn back.

Gold Coast riders would get to Canungra for a coffee before turning around and Sunshine Coast riders would be able to explore the Blackall Ranges.

Of course, you still can’t cross the border and come back without a special permit and 14 days of isolation!

For a rough guide to a 50km radius from your house, click here.

restrictionsGoogle Maps shows how far Brisbane riders can go.

Policing restrictions

It is unknown if Queensland Police will strictly patrol the 50km rule.

This Queensland intra-departmental email from Assistant Commissioner Peter Crawford has been circulating since last Tuesday.

It advises officers not to fine errant riders, but practise “compassion”.

Virus

Queensland Police tis afternoon issued this statement:

Motorcyclists are permitted to travel up to 50km from their principal place of residence with a member of their household or an individual and one friend, except when permitted circumstances exist. The QPS thanks the community for their cooperation, police will continue to educate and show compassion when engaging with members of the public during these unprecedented times as we all work together to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

You can probably expect police to have a heavy presence on popular motorcycle routes next weekend.

Flagrant breaches

State Disaster Co-ordinator Steve Gollschewski says police will “assist people to understand the new rules but will still enforce flagrant breaches”.

“Police will be understanding but this isn’t an invitation for people to undo everyone’s hard work,” he says.

We saw Sydney beaches opened up last week only to be quickly closed again when they became crowded.

Riders are advised that social distancing still applies which means no congregating at stops.

We will also have to ride solo, with one other rider or with several members of the same household.

“We will closely watch the numbers of new infections and review the measures after two weeks,” the Premier says.

Steve Spalding RACQ voidSteve Spalding

RACQ safety officer and Triumph Bonneville rider Steve Spalding has welcomed the move.

“It’s a good start,” says Steve who is hoping to get away for a three-day ride in June if restrictions are further eased.

“At least it will give riders the opportunity to get some fresh air and ride for enjoyment.”

Further loosening of travel restrictions will be subject to flattening the curve and that may only happen if motorists obey these eased restrictions.

There is no change yet in other states, but we will keep an eye on developments.

Easing of restrictions in NSW and Victoria may depend on how well Queensland goes.

In Tasmania you can visit a family member and in the ACT you can visit anyone so long as there are not more than two of you visiting at the one time.

ACT Police are not yet issuing COVID-19 infringement notices as they are prioritising public education over coercive sanctions.

In South Australia and Northern Territory there are no fines for leaving the house for non-essential reasons, however unnecessary socialisation is discouraged.

West Australian riders can ride within nine zones, but not cross from one to the other.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Will motorcycles be a pandemic survivor?

The motorcycle industry, like many others, is struggling during the pandemic, but we wonder whether motorcycling will be a victim or a survivor when the travel restrictions finally lift and the pandemic risk fades?

Will motorcycles continue to struggle in the ensuing economic downturn or will they thrive in the “new world order”?

Victim: A pessimistic outlook

The Last Motorcycle on Earth! panic omittedScene from the fictional film The Last Motorcycle on Earth!

Most motorcycle factories around the world have been on lockdown for several weeks.

However, some will this week begin production again after having disinfected and reorganised assembly lines to provide more distance between workers.

Catching up with orders will be difficult because of the broken supply chain of components and experts predict a catch-up that could take several months.

Not that orders are expected to be strong with the economic ramifications of the lockdown and the rising tide of unemployment expected to have a huge impact on leisure spending such as premium motorcycles.

That was the experience after the 2008 Global Financial Crisis.

Motorcycle sales still hadn’t recovered from that hit before they were hammered in the past couple of years by the credit squeeze and a lack of interest among millennials.

Now, unemployment is expected to take a further toll on the motorcycle industry.

Experts are predicting that the coming wave of electric motorcycles which was expected to breathe life into the motorcycle industry and attract younger riders, might also suffer.

They say start-ups are particularly vulnerable to the crash in shares and investment, so nascent electric motorcycle companies could starve for funds.

Survivor: An optimistic outlook

Harley-Davidson

But it’s not all doom and gloom and motorcycling could be a survivor from this crisis.

Transport experts predict a shift from public transport to personal transport because of the contagion fears of being jammed together on packed buses trains.

Yet few will desire to return to one-person-per-car traffic jams, which could mean commuters opting for bicycles and powered- two-wheelers.

Lyft, an American ride-sharing company, believes life after the pandemic will be different with opportunities for motorcycles and scooters.

As we look to the reopening of cities, people will be looking for affordable, reliable ways to stay socially distant while commuting, including turning to transportation options such as ride share, bike share, and scooters,” says spokesman Michael Masserman.

There will also be an opportunity for local governments, as well as key advocates and stakeholders, to consider reshaping our cities to be built around people and not cars.”

Avi Meir, cofounder and CEO of Travel management company TravelPerk agrees.

Countries and regions will emerge from lockdown at different paces, leading to ‘corridors of travel’ between destinations opening back up one by one,” Avi says.

“We’re already beginning to see early signs of a modest pickup in travel again in Asia Pacific, as the local pressure of the virus lessens.

“When travel does begin to resume, domestic travel will be first.”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Blood Bikes Australia ready to volunteer

Volunteer riders at Blood Bikes Australia are offering to deliver to healthcare organisations during the coronavirus pandemic.

Founder Peter Davis established the Australian arm of Blood Bikes in Brisbane in September 2019 delivering blood supplies to Mater hospitals in the city.

Earlier this month we published his called for more volunteers to extend their services to other states and help in the fight against coronavirus.

His plan is to deliver medical equipment, personal protection equipment, gloves, masks, medicine, ventilators and other urgent necessities to hospitals, nursing homes and hospices.

Peter says he was inundated with inquires around the country and now has three back-up volunteer riders in Brisbane and more in other capital and regional cities.

Blood Bikes Australia volunteers pandemic coronavirus covid-19Volunteers his the streets

“Our main challenge now is getting healthcare organisations, laboratories and pathology companies to realise the advantages in adding Blood Bikes Australia volunteers as part of their delivery and transport alternatives,” he says.

“If you are a decision-maker in one of these organisations, then contact Blood Bikes Australia. We have volunteers in cities and regional Australia ready to help.

“The key point is that Blood Bikes Australia does not aim to be a primary pathology transport service provider but we aim to offer an alternative to getting an expensive taxi when all usual methods are exhausted.”

Volunteer orientation

Blood Bikes Australia volunteers pandemic coronavirus covid-19Peter Davis (left) wth volunteers Phil, Peter and Jay

Peter took his Brisbane volunteers on an orientation ride last week to show them where to deliver blood and medical supplies.  

 Jay Mair of Walloon who rides a Suzuki C50 says she wanted to “do something that is important and a good excuse to get on the bike”.

The Scouts volunteer has been riding since she was 17.

Peter Cabot on a BMW R 1200 GS has good motivation to volunteer.

“My sister is an ER doctor and I have another sister who is a pharmacist in a hospital,” he says. “I wanted to help and make a difference.”

Riding instructor Phillip Bates on a BMW R 1200 RT is used to volunteering as he was involved in the original Blood Bikes in the UK.

Vital service

Peter delivers blood supplies to the Mater Hospital Peter delivers blood supplies to the Mater Hospital

Blood delivered by Blood Bikes Australia has been used in surgery as well as transfusions for cancer patients.

Peter says he has started discussing the possibility of extending the service to delivering breast milk, medicines and other medical products.

“Recent discussions with the Mater are now looking into ways in which Blood Bikes Australia can help especially in these difficult times,” he says.

“Blood Bikes Australia is entirely voluntary. We volunteer our time, fuel and motorcycles.

“We are not an emergency service and abide by all the road rules and speed limits. We are not police or ambulance ‘wannabes’.

“We are just motorcycle enthusiasts who want to make our passion for riding available to do some good in the community.”

As an essential medical service, urgent deliveries would also be exempt from any travel restrictions during the current pandemic.

Volunteer callBlood Bikes Australia Peter Davis

Peter says he now has volunteers in Central Queensland, Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Gosford, Newcastle, Sydney, Ballarat, Geelong, Werribee, Launceston, Adelaide and Perth.

“More volunteers would be always welcome,” says Peter.

“People are ready to volunteer, but the difficult part can be getting healthcare organisations, hospitals and blood banks to appreciate and understand how useful Bloodbikes can be.

“That’s what we need more than anything.”

If you are interested in Blood Bikes Australia, visit their Facebook page where you can private message Peter or email him directly here.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com