Tag Archives: pandemic

Free ferry fares to Tassie after pandemic?

Tasmania wants to encourage domestic tourism with free or discounted fares for all vehicles including motorcycles on the Spirit of Tasmania ferry when the state reopens its borders after the pandemic closure.

Tourism Industry Council Tasmania CEO Luke Martin has called in the Federal Government to temporarily extend the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme that covers the gap between the true cost of taking a vehicle on the ferry and the ticket price.

That would make fares attractively cheap or even free.

Ferry proposalFree ferry fares to Tassie Tasmania

The proposal has been supported by Premier Peter Gutwein and the Motorcycle Riders Association (MRA) in Victoria who asks riders to email the Premier to show their support.

Luke says tourists spend an average of $2400 in the local economy.

Motorcycle tourists should be among the most desirable for local businesses, spending more than other motorists.

For example, Tourism Queensland estimates motorcycle tourists spend up to $160 a day in local communities on food, drink, accommodation, fuel and necessities, while caravaners are more self-contained and only spend about $40 a day.

A Spirit of Tasmania spokesperson says the current motorbike fare starts at $69 each way in the low tourist season.

It can rise to $99 in the high season or $109 for a flexi fare. Sidecars and trailers can lift the price to as much as $139 each way.

A discount or free fare would encourage more riders. Not that riders need much encouragement to head to Tassie. Charley Boorman rates it one of his favourite riding destinations.

Safe travels

The Tasmanian Government loves to welcome visiting motorcyclists, but also promotes important road safety messages about roads and riding conditions in Tasmania.

They have produced a Tasmanian Motorcycle Travel Guide video which is given to all motorcyclists when they board the Spirit of Tasmania.

It is one of many motorcycle-oriented tourism videos they have released.

In 2015, they produced a video featuring multi-Australian Superbike Champion Malcolm Campbell and interstate motorcycle club member Lester Knowles riding around the state and pointing out the features and dangers.

Each year the video is updated.

Road safety billboards and posters are also displayed on popular riding routes.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Harley builds fewer bikes for exclusivity

Harley-Davidson this week restarts production after a two-month closure over the pandemic with lower production rates for more “exclusivity”, the company says.

They claim 70% of US dealers will get no new motorcycles delivered this year.

Harley-Davidson Australia spokesman Keith Waddell says they “will have supply coming throughout the remainder of 2020”.

The lack of new product is largely because they have been closed since the pandemic was announced in March.

Exclusivity

However, it is also because new CEO and president Jochen Zeitz wants to make the brand more “exclusive”.

Jochen says his Rewire strategy will limit motorcycle product in the showroom and drive exclusivity.

This follows his recent announcement that the August 2020 launch of the new an America adventure bike and water-cooled Bronx streetfighter will be delayed until next year.

A company memo to dealers from product sales director Beth Truett says:

We are using this time to course correct and rewire the company in pursuit of making Harley-Davidson one of the most desirable brands in the world.

Jochen Zeitz with LiveWire rewire sharesJochen Zeitz with the electric LiveWire

Harley in the news

Harley has been in the news the past couple of months ever since CEO Matt Levatich was sacked in February Jochen was appointed interim CEO and then announced as CEO on 8 May 2020.

Last week it was revealed that Jochen and senior VP and CFO John A. Olin bought millions in shares of HOG stock.

This seems to show a vote of confidence in the company by its executives, although some say it may be just for show to prop up the share price.

There is no statement from Harley about the share purchases and no record of Jochen’s salary.

However, the previous boss was paid a record $11m last year.

When he became interim CEO, Jochen implemented measures to ride out the pandemic recession including he and fellow board members forgoing salary/cash compensation.

The measures also include cutting back on all non-essential spending, temporary salary reductions, 30% reduction in executive leadership, 10-20% reduction for US salaried employees, no merit increases for 2020 and no new staff until further notice.

Jochen’s five-year “Rewire”strategy also involves expanding “profitable iconic heritage bikes” while committing to branching out to adventure touring, the new Streetfighter range and electric motorcycles.

Harley’s sales have been on the slide for several years. This video gives an entertaining history of the American icon’s problems.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Pandemic run down to the border

As the politicians continue to argue over opening closed borders, we thought we would try a hump-day run down to the Queensland border to see what all the fuss was about.

NSW, Victoria and the ACT have never closed their borders due to the pandemic.

All other mainland borders are closed, but that still means you can leave a closed state and go into an open state.

Lions Rd borderLions Rd border

It’s just that you might have difficulty getting back to your home state!

For example, Queenslanders need a special entry permit issued for necessary travel only and may still be required to quarantine for 14 days on return.

For me and my mate, Blood Bikes Australia funder Peter Davis, that ruled out a quick day trip to NSW to enjoy those sensational roads of the Northern Rivers.

Border Peter DavisPeter Davis

Legal border ride

However, we still enjoyed a legal ride within our 150km limit to two inland borders.

First we headed to the Lions Rd where there are barricades at the border to prevent anyone crossing from either side.

Border Harley-Davidson Road KingLions Rd border

The benefit is that there is virtually no traffic on the temporary dead-end road.

That means no slow-moving tourists or double white lines to interrupt your flow.

You still have to watch out for errant cattle on the road, though.Border Harley-Davidson Road King

We then scooted across through Rathdowney for a coffee before heading down the Mt Lindesay Highway to our second interstate confrontation.

Here the border is open and traffic can freely flow through to NSW.

However, you can’t come back into Queensland without the police checking your permit.

We got to the border and asked the Queensland Police officer on duty where we could turn around as there were witches’ hats and solid white lines everywhere.

Border Harley-Davidson Road KingMt Lindesay Highway border crossing

He was not in good humour and abused us for riding to the crossing, saying “don’t come back again”.

However, there is nothing in the rules against riding to the border!

All the same, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Apart from the bad-humoured cop who just may try to slap you with a $66+k fine, we also came across a substantial number of trucks using this open border.Border Harley-Davidson Road King

Still, it was a great day’s ride aboard the Harley-Davidson Road King through some beautiful countryside under steely-grey skies!Border Harley-Davidson Road King

Official health sites

These are the official rules for your state or territory:

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

First weekend of eased travel restrictions

This is the first weekend that all states and territories have eased travel restrictions and we expect a lot of bikes out on the roads throughout Australia and the UK.

As we noted in our above meme a few weeks ago: “When the lockdown ends … You won’t see me for dust.”

The travel restrictions vary throughout the country. Click here for the latest details.

For example, in Queensland riders who were restricted to a 50km radius can now travel in a 150km radius (500km if you live in the outback), extending to 250km from June 12.

Coincidentally this weekend I pick a Harley-Davidson Road King for test which should be more than suitable for travelling 150km radius! 

150km radius from western Brisbane150km radius from Brisbane

Like many other riders, I am also planning a multi-day ride from June 12 when Queensland’s rules (and many other states) will allow tourist accommodation.

I will also be able to travel in a 250km radius and ride with a group of up to 20.

It looks like there will be seven of us and we plan to stay within the 250km radius which takes us southwest to the Granite Belt, west into the Darling Downs and north as far as Maryborough, an area that includes a host of great roads.

Unfortunately, the beckoning roads of northern NSW will have to wait until July 12.

TravelQueensland’s three-stage plan

We will also continue practising social distancing and safe hygiene.

That means:

  • Limiting stops along the way;
  • Carrying spare disposable gloves for refuelling, etc;
  • Paying by credit card, not cash;
  • Frequent hand washing and carrying my own sanitiser; and
  • Carrying a thermometer for a daily temperature check.

Official health sites

These are the official rules for your state or territory:

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Electric LiveWire aids pandemic recovery

Harley-Davidson has donated a customised electric LiveWire motorcycle autographed by the Davidson family to be auctioned to raise funds for the United Way Worldwide COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund.

The special edition LiveWire also has custom paint and carbonfibre accessories including screen, tail and tank trim.

It is being auctioned online at bonhams.com with auction fees waived. The auction ends on Tuesday 26 May 2020 at 4pm (EST).

The custom LiveWire is #500 of 500 “First Strike” edition LiveWires.

These are specially numbered versions created to celebrate the first 500 units produced of Harley-Davidson’s first production electric motorcycle.

“The Harley-Davidson design team created the custom paint and graphics on this motorcycle to accentuate the natural forms of the LiveWire,” Bekefy says.

“It’s a stunning motorcycle that is truly one of a kind.”

While the auction is available for participants from around the world, the motorcycle can only be registered and retained in the US.

The winning bidder and their guest will take part in an exclusive delivery experience and “behind-the-scenes” Harley-Davidson tour.

This private, hosted experience will include a tour of the Willie G. Davidson Product Development Centre and an archival tour of the Harley-Davidson Museum.

Harley-Davidson museum in MilwaukeeHarley-Davidson museum in Milwaukee

United Way to recovery

United Way’s mission is to aid those on the frontlines and those who are affected by this crisis around the world.

Harley spokesman Jon Bekefy says the company is a “longtime partner of the United Way”.

“(We are) inspired by their continued resilience in this crisis,” he says.

“Harley-Davidson is honoured to play a small part in the relief effort to inspire our community around the world about the open road ahead.”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Cops ease up on pandemic fines

It seems police may be taking a more considered approach to issuing pandemic fines or Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) for contravening travel restrictions which is great news for riders.

Victoria Police are the latest to ease up on overzealous policing of the rules.

And so they should: the laws have been hastily drafted, they are confusing, frequently changing, Draconian, inconsistent and even iniquitous, especially for riders.

After all, there is less risk of a rider infecting anyone while wearing a helmet and gloves and socially distancing on their motorcycle than there is standing in the queue at Bunnings or Maccas!

Experts agree that the largest risk is in places where people are in close proximity indoors for extended periods of time, not outdoors were they have plenty of room to move.

CFMoto-650 Vicroads online Survey motorcycle safety levy Victoria Yarra Black Spur countryMBW exercising social distancing on the Victorian Black Spur

Pandemic fines

There have been very few pandemic fines issued to riders for contravening the travel restrictions which are now easing across the nation.

Queensland Police have been specifically told to use “compassion” and NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian says riding is exercise and no riders have been fined.

(That’s not quite true as a 36-year-old Newcastle rider was fined $1000 on April 9 after providing police with “multiple conflicting reasons for not being home before stating he was on his way to help a friend fix a bike”.)

Meanwhile, police in other states seem to have turned a blind eye to riders, according to our local sources.

Even in Tasmania which is the only state that still officially bans recreational riding, police are not only turning a blind eye, but giving riders a nod!

New Vic rulesVictoria Solo Unit motorcycle police uniforms fatalities day of national day of action

Now Victoria Police — not known for their restraint — have been issued new regulations on fines for breaching the new Chief Health Officer directions issued on Monday which allow recreational riding.

Firstly, police must use “increased discretion” and seek supervisor approval before a fine is issued.

“Victoria Police recognises there may be some genuine ambiguity from the community and police members alike regarding the interpretation of the new directions,” a VicPol statement says.

“This new process will assist in providing a fair and balanced approach to all breaches and ensure accuracy in offence determination.

“It also ensures a heightened level of discretion is used by police while these changes are being understood by the community.

“Victoria Police will continue to enforce CHO directions.”

However, VicPol have only issued two pandemic fines in the past 24 hours.

The new direction comes after Victorian Police overturned a fine for a young learner whose mum was supervising his driving and have copped criticism for over-zealous policing of the rules.

Meanwhile, it is incumbent on riders to behave and not do anything to attract the attention of police.

Also, remember to maintain social distance when you stop for fuel, food, drinks, toilet break or a rest.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Tassie remains locked down for riders

While most Australian states and territories are easing coronavirus lockdown travel restrictions, Tasmania — normally the most motorcycle-friendly state — remains locked down for riders.

Victoria is the latest to ease its travel restrictions from 13 May, says the Health Department:

  • You are able to go for a ride. Carrying pillion passengers should be avoided, unless they live in your household.
  • You are encouraged to stay local, and only go to places where you can ride there and back in one day.
  • Victorians are being asked to use consideration and common sense when it comes to travelling. If you can stay home, you must stay home.
  • Since some of this information is not published on any government website, we have included the Health department email at the end of this article which you may like to print out for your records.

State travel restrictionsDangers of organised group rides peer

Travel restrictions are also being eased throughout the country:

  • In NSW riding is considered exercise.
  • In South Australia, riders can go for a recreational ride within their region from today (11 May 2020).
  • WA is broken up into nine regions and riders must stay within their region. From 18 May, regions will be enlarged to: Perth + Peel + Wheatbelt + Southwest + Great Southern; Goldfields + Esperance; Mid-West + Gascoyne + Pilbara regions; and Kimberley which is  still in isolation due the high-risk Aboriginal communities there.
  • The Northern Territory has designated areas which exclude non-essential travel.
  • There are no restrictions in the ACT, but Canberrans should only travel outside the region to visit family and friends for care and support. Canberra residents who are travelling interstate will need to abide by the rules of the jurisdiction in which they are travelling.
  • Queensland riders can travel up to a 150km radius from home from this Saturday and 250km from June 12.

Riders can ride in groups of up to 10 but must practise social distancing when they stop for fuel, a meal or coffee. WA will increase that to 20 from next Monday.

Overnight accommodation (and camping) for tourism is expected to be allowed in most states from June 12.

Cafes are opening soon for more than takeaway while state/territory borders are expected to open between states from July 12.

Locked down

Charley Boorman rates Tasmania one of the best in the world for ridingTasmanian roads go begging!

Meanwhile, in Tasmania, normally the most motorcycle-friendly state of all and certainly open of our favourites to ride, motorcyclists are locked down to essential travel only.

That means only riding for work, medical visits, education, essential shopping or legitimate care reasons.

Riders hassled by police for not obeying a health directive under the current restrictions should surely be able to claim ignorance as a defence.

After all, the rules change a quickly and frequently it is near impossible to keep abreast of the latest developments.

Motorbike Writer has been attempting for several weeks to collate and update the travel restrictions as they apply to riders across six stages and two territories.

I have lost count of the number of phones calls and emails I have made to various departments, media contacts and hotlines.

The information provided has been vague, conflicting and confusing. And references to motorcycles are sadly lacking in any of the descriptions of how the rules apply.

Do bureaucrats and politicians think motorcycles do not exist?

Health Department email

Email pandemic

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Crashes increase as lockdown eases

One of the sad consequences of the easing of lockdown restrictions in some states is the increase in motorcycle crashes.

As expected, crashes reduced with the reduction of traffic when the lockdown started in mid-March.

A lengthy report after the GFC found a similar pattern.

It makes sense that crashes would drop as traffic reduced.

However, police also observed there was a decrease in speeding fines, but an increase in high-range speeding as some motorists took advantage of quiet roads.

Although statistics will not yet be conclusive, we have noticed several crashes involving other vehicles since the lockdown started to ease.

Over the weekend two drivers were charged after hitting and killing two riders ion Sydney, alone.

Will we now see a sharp rise in multi-vehicle crashes as riders suddenly appear on the roads again?

It’s only been about 5-6 weeks, but some motorists may have forgotten to look for riders.

There have been virtually no motorcycle crashes in Victoria, but that could change if/when their lockdown restrictions are relaxed.

Latest incidentDayGlo Queensland Police witnesses single

In the latest incident, a car and motorcycle collided about 4.25pm yesterday (10 May 2020) in Canungra on the Gold Coast hinterland.

The rider was heading southwest on Lamington National Park Road when it collided with a dark grey Hyundai Tucson.

The male rider was transported to Gold Coast University Hospital in a serious condition.

Our sincere best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.

The driver and passenger in the Hyundai Tucson were not physically injured.

Forensic Crash Unit investigators are appealing for witnesses or anyone who was in the vicinity and may have dash cam vision, to contact police.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.

Quote this reference number: QP2000967040 within the online suspicious activity form.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Green light set for group riding

Riders should be able to travel in a group of up to 10 under the first step of National Cabinet’s three-step plan announced today (8 May 2020) to ease coronavirus restrictions.

The states and territories are yet to confirm the easing and timing of restrictions. We will update as the rules on non-essential travel are applied. 

Group limit

Dangers of organised group rides numbersGroup of 10 riders

However, it appears that a group of up to 10 will be permitted outdoors, which should give the green light to groups of riders and pillions.

They are already allowed to ride and gather in groups of up to 10 in Western Australia and South Australia.

Riders will still have to practise social distancing when they stop at their favourite cafes or restaurants which have also being given permission to open.

WA riders must stay in their regions, but from Monday SA riders can ride throughout the state.

NSW riders can ride for exercise.

From May 15, Queensland riders can travel up to 150km radius for recreation (500km if they live and travel in the outback). 

For a Brisbane rider that means south to the border, north to Gympie, west to Dalby and southwest to Stanthorpe.

There is currently no limit if you are visiting another household from this Sunday (10 May 2020).Travel

Victorian riders are still housebound unless they are travelling for work, education, groceries, medical reasons or to visit a partner with whom they do not live.

Premier Daniel Andrews says he will announce an update on eased restrictions next week. Not that riders will be likely to venture out this weekend given the weather conditions.

Travel limits

Social distance Hugh Douglas Mt Glorious Cafe copsRiders gather at a popular cafe

The Queensland 50km radius limit which started last weekend and still exists is believed to have led to overcrowding of riders at various cafes on popular motorcycle routes.

Extending the radius limit to 150km will allow riders to go further and find less-crowded venues to stop for a coffee and a meal.

Queensland Police Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler has advised motorists that they will have additional resources patrolling for breaches of travel restrictions this weekend, particularly on the Gold Coast.

Riders in most states, except South Australia and Western Australia, should be aware that you cannot yet travel to a location and stay overnight.

So any ride you do will require you to return home the same day.

Tourism accommodation will be allowed in Queensland in the second stage from June 12.

You also cannot cross borders without official exemptions. Queensland hopes to open its borders in the third stage from July 12.

Official health sites

These are the official rules for your state or territory:

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Top 5 Motorcycle Computer Games

(Contributed post on computer games)

If you haven’t been able to go for a ride for some time because of the current lockdown, you may consider motorcycle video games as a substitute.

It might not get you outdoors but they can help you to relax and have fun. The following are five of the top motorcycle-themed computer games you can play when you are confined at home or can’t ride for some reason.

MXGP Pro

MXGP Pro from developer Milestone srl was released in 2018 and offers a realistic and definitely challenging motocross racing experience. The game improved on the physics system of previous MX games in the series to make MXGP Pro as close to the real thing as possible. There is no doubt that the game is hard to play. There are tutorials that will help but it will take a lot of practice to get good. A nice feature of the game is that tracks become more difficult every lap as ruts form. Players will have to make slight adjustments to adapt. MXGP Pro has a nice selection of 17 tracks from around the world. You can choose from 4 game modes; Grand Prix, Time Attack, Career and Championship. Career mode offers over 1000 customizable parts for bikes for performance and appearance. MXGP Pro has a steep learning curve but is a great game for real fans of motocross.

Road Redemption

Road Redemption was released in 2017 by developers EQ-Games and Pixel Dash Studios. Those looking for realistic motorbike simulations in a game will probably be disappointed.  It’s a game that combines motorcycle riding and combat with the emphasis leaning more towards the fighting aspects of the game. In Road Redemption the player leads a motorcycle gang across the country fighting all the way. Players have an assortment of weapons they can use to battle other bikers including pool cues, wrenches, shovels and swords. Various guns and explosives can also be acquired. Road Redemption is relatively easy to play with only a few basic commands. As the game progresses you can earn money by completing various challenges such as winning races or committing robberies and assassinations. This money can be used to upgrade your character, your weapons and of course your bike. Road Redemption isn’t a classic motorbike simulation but can provide a lot of fun. You can find more motorcycle mayhem fun at King Billy pokies in Australia playing some of the best casino slot games such as their Bikers Gang slot.

TT Isle of Mann: Ride on the Edge 2

Isle of Man TT 2 game Mike Hailwood Ducati 900Isle of Man TT 2 game

TT Isle of Mann: Ride on the Edge 2 developed by Kylotonn was released this year and features outstanding graphics that accurately replicate the entire 37.73 mile Snaefell Mountain Course. In career mode players advance through a race calendar until you reach the main race. You receive cash for placing well which can be used to upgrade parts. Most of the tracks are fictionally until you reach the main race. Unlike many games TT Isle of Mann 2 also has outstanding audio with realistic wind noise that alters as you pass different objects. The physics of the game are very realistic and there is very little room for error. To be clear this game is challenging and difficult. There is actually an achievement for falling 50 times and is one of the first you will unlock. TT Isle of Mann: Ride on the Edge 2 definitely keeps players on the edge of their seat and gets the adrenaline pumping. This is a must play game for those who truly enjoy realistic simulations.

Trials Rising

Trials Rising released in 2019 comes from developers RedLynx and Ubisoft Kyiv and is the latest game in the Trials series. It features various obstacle courses at different locations around the world in settings like Hollywood, the Eiffel Tower and Mount Everest. Although the physics of the bikes in Trials Rising is realistic the situations riders find themselves in are not which adds to the fun. There are over 100 different levels in Trials Rising. The game has an excellent tutorial that teaches you the tricks and techniques you will need to advance in the game. As with many motorcycle games players can customise their bikes as well as the riders outfit. Players also have the opportunity to create their own custom obstacle courses and share them with other players. An additional feature included in the game is the Tandem bike which can be played in local mode. Two players control the bike with each having responsibility for a portion of the motorcycles functions. Trials Rising is a lot of fun and will provides hours of entertainment.

Ride 3

Ride 3 was developed by Milestone srl and released in 2018. It is the third title in the Ride series. This iteration of the game has a great selection of bikes players can choose from. There are 230 bikes split between 6 different classes; Maxienduro, Naked, Racing, Supermoto, Supercustom and Sport. Each class has its own handling and performance characteristics so players will have to adjust their riding style when changing classes. There are plenty of customization options including aftermarket parts as well as the ability to upgrade components such as the engine and gearbox. Customisation isn’t limited to bikes as you can change your rider outfits as well. There are 30 different locations in Ride 3 with more than 50 different track variations. The game has 3 different physics modes to adjust parameters such as traction control. Ride 3 has a career mode where players compete over a series of events as well as “quick race” and “time attack” modes. If you make a mistake during a race there is an optional rewind feature that allows you to undo it. Ride 3 offers plenty of variety and will keep you engaged and entertained for quite awhile.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com