May 2013 - CityBike

Transcription

May 2013 - CityBike

Was your last vacation this good?
4
2
Days Riding Italian Alps
Days Track Time at Sachsenring
News, Clues & Rumors
the crowd, and by “young”
we mean under 50. Event
organizer Don Danmeyer
told us there have been
more young people showing
bikes over the last two years,
mostly in the bobber and
open classes—I asked about
cafe racers, but he said the
younger cafe racer crowd
seemed more interested in
the vintage Japanese stuff.
Volume XXX, Issue 5
Publication Date: April 22, 2013
On The Cover: Editor Ets-Hokin
does the only stunt he can,
negating the environmental
benefits of riding a zeroemissions electric motorcycle for
a week. Photo by Bob Stokstad
Contents:
8
Different Ducati & Triumph Demo Models to Try
NCR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
New Stuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2013 Zero S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
BRD E-SuMo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Hyosung GT250R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Star Bolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Corbin v Sargent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Dr . Gregory Frazier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Maynard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Hertfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Marketplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Tankslapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
O-Ring Wallet Chain Comparo . . . . . . . . . 33
CityBike Staff:
CityBike Staff:
PO Box 10659 Oakland, CA 94610
Phone: 415/282-2790
E-mail: info@citybike com
Find us online: www citybike com
W
B
hat you’ll say to make your riding buddies envious
From September 12th to September 20th.You’ll fly into the Bavarian party town of Munich.
Spend 4 days exploring Tyrolean passes by day and celebrating Eurostyle in an apartment
Chalet at night. Then burn up the Autobahn and spend two days riding the MotoGP track of
Sachsenring. Superfluous luxuries kept to a minimum to keep the price low and so you’ll get
the goodies that matter like good bikes, a luggage vehicle, local guides and a track instructor
to show you the lines. No tourist traps, you’ll ride Europe like a European.
ook it at Marin Speed Shop or Ace Motosport for $2971
Yup, that’s it. Stop in at the Bay Area’s finest purveyors of European Exhilaration to reserve your
adventure. There’s only 10 slots so act now.
Marin Speed Shop (formerly Hattar)
601 Francisco Blvd E
San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 456-3345
Ace Motosport
1931 Market Street
Concord, CA 94520 (925) 969-7818
News ‘n Clues: Staff
Editor-in-Chief: Gabe Ets-Hokin
Senior Editor: Robert Stokstad
Contributing Editors: John Joss, Will Guyan,
Courtney Olive
Chief of the World Adventure
Affairs Desk: Dr. Gregory Frazier
Staff Photographers:
- Robert Stokstad
- Gary Rather
Art Director: Alan Lapp
Advertising Sales: Kenyon Wills
Contributors:
Dan Baizer, Craig Bessenger, John Bishop,
Blaise Descollonges, Joanne Donn,
John D’India (RIP), Dirck Edge, Mike Felder,
Dr. Gregory Frazier, Will Guyan,
Joe Glydon (RIP), Brian Halton,
David Hough, Maynard Hershon,
Ed Hertfelder, Harry Hoffman,
Otto Hofmann, Gary Jaehne (RIP)
Jon Jensen, Bill Klein, David Lander,
Alan Lapp, Lucien Lewis, Ed Milich,
Larry Orlick, Jason Potts, Bob Pushwa,
Gary Rather, Curt Relick, Charlie Rauseo,
Mike Solis, Ivan Thelin, James Thurber,
Adam Wade (RIP).
CityBike is published on or about the third Monday of each month.
Editorial deadline is the 1st of each month. Advertising information is
available on request. Unsolicited articles and photographs are always
welcome. Please include a full name, address and phone number
with all submissions. We reserve the right to edit manuscripts or use
them to wipe our large, fragrant bottoms.
©2013, CityBike Magazine, Inc. Citybike Magazine is distributed
at over 150 places throughout California each month. Taking more
than a few copies at any one place without permission from CityBike
Magazine, Inc, especially for purposes of recycling, is theft and will
be prosecuted to the full extent of civil and criminal law. Yeah!
CityBike magazine is owned by CityBike Magazine, Inc and has
teams of sleep-deprived, coke-addicted attorneys ready to defend
it from frivolous lawsuits, so even if you see Lucien Lewis doing
one of his wheelies on the cover and decide you want to do that too
and then you hit a parked car and your bike is wedged under a van
and it catches fire and the Vallejo FD has to come and extinguish
the resulting blaze and four cars and your bike are melted into
slag and you suffer permanent trauma including a twisted pinkie,
sleeplessness and night terrors, it’s not CityBike Magazine Inc.’s fault
and we don’t have any assets so just suck on it. You know better.
Arrangements made by Leod Escapes. Details available at LeodEscapes.com
The Italian and Japanese
shows, in an entirely
different building, were
BIG RACK ATTACK
CityBike is on the march and
deploying indoor racks in addition
to its existing fleet of outdoor
racks. If you see one, please
compliment its handler on their
good fortune. The new Rack-OMatic 5000s will be trickling out
to shops in the coming months,
and will come in freestanding,
table-top, and wall versions. After
quintupling readership in the first
three years of ownership, this is
the next step in getting people to
notice CityBike amongst the other
things competing for attention in
the shops that we lay about in all
month. Please do not leave your
coffee on it.
CLUBMAN SHOW
If you didn’t roll out of bed April 6th
to check out the AllBritish Clubman’s
show as well as the
Japanese and Italian
shows, and the
indoor racing, you
really missed out.
Highlights of the
Clubman show
included some eyepopping Vincents
like a Series-A HRD
and a John Surtees
Replica, as well
as Brough SS100
that was formerly
owned by Vintagent
guy Paul d’Orleans
(albeit in boxes—it’s
now immaculately
restored and worth
a couple hundred
grand) and a passel
of old Rudges
presented by the
Yerba Buena chapter
of the Antique
Motorcycle Club.
We were surprised
at the turnout—not
because it seems to
be holding steady
from year to year,
but because we were
seeing young faces in
May 2013 | 3 | CityBike.com
similarly busy. The
Classic Japanese
Motorcycle Club’s
Alan Siekman gave me
the tour of the show,
making sure he pointed
out a particularly rare
and interesting 1963
Honda CR72 owned
by Ron Mousouris.
This bike, the only one
known to exist, was
a factory prototype
racebike a serviceman
acquired and raced in
Japan and the United
States and was actually
the result of Honda’s
R&D department
fitting a one-off CR72
race motor (with
experimental chaindriven cams instead of
the works-style gears)
into a Super Hawk
chassis. The servicemen
blew the motor up
and then sold it to a
Honda shop, where it
languished for decades.
Seikman tells us the
camchain is something
like six feet long!
We also enjoyed
meeting Willie K.
Bullion of Santa
Cruz, builder of a
unique flat-trackthemed Ducati
Supersport-based
custom. He works for
Santa Cruz Bicycles,
but is launching a
new venture both
modifying Ducatis
as well as making
Desmo-themed
furniture—the trellisframed coffee table
he showed us was
particularly nice, and
should nicely solve
the problem of chassis
flex traditional coffee
tables present. Call
him at 831/212-2202
if his work seems of
interest.
THE CHP IS
FOLLOWING US
...On Twiter, that is. Yes, it seems that not
only does CityBike have a Twitter account
(@citybikesf), but the Marin office of the
California Highway Patrol does, too—@
CHPMarin. We don’t know why the boys
and girls in khaki are monitoring our
tweets, other than they like us, as we can’t
violate the vehicle code as a magazine.
But thanks for saving us from ourselves in
general (and we mean that), CHP!
‘STICH IN TIME
Pop-up. Yes, remember that buzzword,
because that could be the hot new concept
that revives brick-and-mortar retailing.
Aerostich Rider WearHouse, maker of
the famed Roadcrafter riding suit, pitched
its tent at 655 Bryant Street (right next
door to Dubbelju moto-rentals) for nine
days, entertaining hundreds—maybe
thousands—of Bay Area riders. In
Mr. Subjective pins le ordre du
Aerostich on the Editor for riding
1000 hours with a wet crotch.
addition, the temporary location sized
and sold enough suits to equal a month’s
worth (or more) of orders in not much
more than a week.
It wasn’t really a full Aerostich
emporium—that would have required
a much bigger location than the spare
room next to Embarcadero Automotive
provided—but rather a clean, well-lighted
and comfortable space where customers
could meet Aerostich staff, (including
founder Andy Goldfine and CEO Mark
Blohowiak) try on gear and consult with a
friendly fitting consultant.
seemed both surprised and touched by the
number of Aerostich fans that came out to
just say hi.
“It was especially great to be able to
meet and talk with so many of our good
customers.” said company founder Andy
Goldfine. “Lots of riders who’d been
commuting every day wearing their
Aerostich Roadcrafters for ten (or more)
years thanked us for such a great product.”
Goldfine went
on: “It was also
wonderful to
meet riders who
wanted to try on
an Aerostich suit,
pant or jacket for
the first time. We
sure learned a
lot, and had a lot
of fun. What a
terrific thrill to be
in San Francisco...
especially because
it was still snowing
in Minnesota. The
overall results were
good for everyone.”
Sadly, looks like
we won’t see them
again next year.
“At this time we
are not planning
to come back next
year—this was
done as a one-timeonly experiment.
Maybe we’d do it
every other year? We are still evaluating.
Thank you to all Bay Area riders to came
by to say hello, and to shop and meet us.
It was wonderful to meet and work with
everyone.”
This stylish ride is result of the first all-new,
ground-up redesign of a Moto Guzzi model
since Piaggio’s purchase of the brand
several years ago. In short, Piaggio views
Moto Guzzi as the top European brand,
and it seems prepared to spend the money
necessary to develop motorcycles worthy
of that position.
I had to ride the new California 1400
models for myself, and Moto Guzzi
extended an invitation to test both bikes
near Malibu, California last week. The
massive machines, in both Custom and
Touring iterations were lined up behind a
Santa Monica hotel, and I boarded one of
the naked, black Custom models for my
first impression. After being schooled by
a Moto Guzzi representative on use
of the three different engine maps
(essentially Sport, Touring and
Rain), the adjustable traction
control and the cruise
control incorporated
into the ride-by-wire
throttle, we worked
our way at slow
speed through
heavy city traffic before reaching the Coast
Highway.
Having selected the Sport mode
(designated “Veloce”), my first chance to
twist the throttle hard led to a big surprise.
These bikes look like big, heavy cruisers,
but this is no cruiser engine. This engine
revs quickly, almost like a sportbike,
befitting its very over-square bore/stroke
ratio and four-valve head design.
As a footnote here, the 1380cc 90 degree
V-twin motor has a bore of 104mm and
a relatively short stroke of 81.2mm. The
horsepower kings in the “heavyweight
cruiser” category are arguably offered by
Star and Victory. Both of those engines
are long-stroke designs with the Star
displacing 1844cc and having a bore of
100mm and a stroke of 118mm. The
1731cc
Victory engine is
101mm x 108mm.
The four-valve
heads on the new
1380 cc Guzzi also
have significantly
higher
GUZZI CALIFORNIA FIRST RIDE
So-Cal Correspondent Dirck Edge of
motorcycledaily.com sent us this first-ride report
of Moto Guzzi’s California 1400:
Local riders turned out en masse—the
Aerostich crew seemed undermanned at
times, but luckily, a crew of local volunteers,
commanded by former messenger Ray
Roy, provided support, showing products
and marshaling the crowd. Mr. Subjective
himself, accompanied by fiancé Shirah,
Ray Roy gives fitting advice: “If you notice
your suit’s uncomfortable, you’re not riding
fast enough!” Photo: Bob Stokstad
*As low as 0% fixed APR financing for 60 months available through Sheffield Financial, a Division of BB&T Financial, FSB. Payment example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 for each $1000 financed. Not all buyers will qualify. Higher rates apply for
buyers with lower credit ratings. Check with Suzuki dealer for complete details. Special APR finance offer ends 5/31/2013.Down payment does not include tax, license and other fees. **Up to $750 Cash Back offer is available between 4/1/2013 and
5/31/2013. Offer available on new select unregistered Suzuki Motorcycles, ATVs, and Scooters. See dealer or visit www.SuzukiCycles.com/Offers for eligible models. Offer is non-transferable and holds no cash value. No transfer, substitution or cash
equivalent of Coupon permitted. Promotion is subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited.At Suzuki, we want every ride to be safe and enjoyable. So always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Study your owner’s manual
and always inspect your Suzuki before riding. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © Suzuki Motor of America, Inc 2013.
East Bay Motorsports
21756 Foothill Blvd.
Hayward
(510) 889-7900
GP Sports
2020 Camden Ave.
San Jose
(408) 377-8780
Grand Prix Motorsports
2360 El Camino
Santa Clara
(408) 246-7323
Mission Motorcycles
6232 Mission St.
Daly City
(650) 992-1234
enough to win over one of the largest
police forces in the country, this new
Moto Guzzi California 1400 represents a
huge step forward.
in anger, I reacted with a “wow!”
inside my helmet. In Veloce
mode, the throttle response is
so crisp I at first thought the
fuel injection tuning was off,
and that the bike was surging
abruptly when I opened the
throttle— I think this was part
of my pre-ride expectation that
this would be a typical, largedisplacement cruiser with a
slow revving motor. After more
experimentation, I think the
motor is just super responsive
for this style of motorcycle.
The fuel injection felt very well
dialed in.
compression at 10.5-to-1
(versus 9.5-to-1 on the Star
and 9.4-to-1 on the Victory).
So this is not a “cruiser”
engine in the traditional sense.
It is primarily air-cooled,
so the compression ratio
is still significantly below
that of modern sportbikes,
however. The motor has a
fairly light flywheel effect,
further distinguishing it from
the typical, slow-revving,
heavyweight cruiser twin.
The primary balance of the
engine with its full 90-degree
configuration also adds to its
free-revving nature. So the
first time I opened the throttle
The “Touring” mode also
offers full power, but a slightly
softer delivery. By this I mean that it takes
a larger twist of the throttle to achieve
the same engine response. After we got
into a twisty section of canyon road and
came to a stop for photography, a number
of the journalists told me they preferred
the Touring mode for the tight twists and
turns, so I gave that a try. Switching to
Touring mode, I found that the bike was
still offered plenty of veloce, but it was easier
to smoothly transition the bike in and out
of corners. It allowed you to relax a little,
but still go fast.
Service & Repair
While we are well-known
for our work on Ducatis, we
provide outstanding service
on all brands and all models!
Plus, it’s a friendly place...swing
by on a Saturday for a cup o’
coffee and some bench racing.
Nichols Sportbike Service
913 Hanson Court
Milpitas, CA 95035
(408) 945-0911
For Ducati product info, please go to:
www.nicholssportbike.com
Which brings us to the subject of handling.
Both the Custom and the Touring models
offer the three-mode ignition maps, as well
as selectable stages of traction control.
This 90-degree V-twin is not a full-blown
1200cc superbike engine you might find
in a Ducati, for instance, which almost
requires a traction control system—it is
a 1380cc engine with tuning somewhere
between that of a sportbike and that of a
traditional cruiser. Given the power and
torque put out by this engine at low rpm,
and the relatively light flywheel effect, you
can spin up the rear tire exiting corners
without much difficulty.
The traction control can be turned
completely off, but I put it in setting 1,
which allows the rear tire to spin slightly
before the system catches it. With this
setting, I did not experience any problems
during our ride, and if it intervened
at any point I was unaware of it. This
is nevertheless a nice feature to have,
particularly during foul weather or on
cold mornings with cold tires. Settings 2
and 3 intervene more quickly, so that you
can essentially dial out any wheel spin
whatsoever.
With some of the usual Moto Guzzi
shaking at idle, the engine really
smoothes out as soon as you get
underway. In addition to the inherent
silkiness of a 90-degree V, the engine
is mounted in a unique way to isolate
vibration from the frame without
affecting chassis stiffness or handling.
I was aboard the Touring model when
journalist Basem Wasef and I decided to
sprint ahead of the rest of our group and
hang with the Moto Guzzi representative
who had decided to really push the pace.
Basem and Guzzi guy were on the naked
Customs, which come with slightly longer
travel rear suspension (10mm). The bikes
handled very well, limited only by their
ground clearance. Despite the massive
wheelbase and huge tires (including a 200
section, 16-inch rear and a 130 section
18-inch front), both the Touring and the
Custom models change direction easily.
Overall handling was surprisingly good,
given the size and weight of the bikes
(claimed weight ranges from 661 pounds
for the Custom to 709 for the Touring).
Both bikes have comfortable ergonomics.
In fact, these are the first Moto Guzzis I
have ridden in a while that seem to have
plenty of legroom, placing the foot pegs/
floorboards in the proper position. The
seats are different on each model, but both
offered firm support that was comfortable
during the relatively short time I was
aboard each bike.
One of the journalists at the press
introduction last week asked Miguel
Galluzzi, designer of these beautiful
bikes, whether Moto Guzzi was targeting
any particular competing manufacturer,
such as Harley-Davidson. Galluzzi didn’t
hesitate : “No. Moto Guzzi is unique,
and it does not compete with HarleyDavidson,” although he would “welcome
Harley-Davidson riders to the Moto Guzzi
experience.” This fit perfectly with my
own impressions of these new California
1400s. They are not traditional cruisers.
They ride in a spirited manner similar to
much lighter bikes, as a result of a quick
revving, powerful engine and solid, refined
handling. Are they “muscle bikes?” Are
they “brawny standards?” Apparently,
Galluzzi thinks they are none of the above.
They are simply a new type of Moto Guzzi.
the TVS Motor Company of Chennai,
India. TV who, you say? Well, it’s a smaller
manufacturer—a mere two million units
a year—but apparently it’s the next one
down the list, as KTM and Erik Buell
racing have snapped up the relationships
with heavier hitters like Bajaj Auto and
Hero MotoCorp.
In any case, this kind of relationship
seems to make sense. BMW accesses
TVS’ factories, supply chain and bazillion
customers, and TVS gets BMW’s big-bikebuilding prowess, presumably to help it
get beyond making motorcycles that don’t
price into the four figures. That’s right,
the TVS Phoenix 125 is priced at 49,000
Rupees: about $990. But don’t worry—
motorcycles resulting from this marriage
will “meet the expectations of a BMW
The Moto Guzzi California Touring 1400
ABS will be available soon at United
States dealers at an MSRP of $17,990. The
California 1400 Custom ABS will also be
available soon at a price of $14,990. The
more expensive Touring model nets you
the integrated saddlebags, windshield, fog
lights, touring saddle and passenger grab
rail. An extensive list of accessories will
be available for both bikes, and you can
essentially turn a Custom into a Touring
after purchase. For additional details and
specifications, visit the Moto Guzzi web
site.
BMW AND INDIANS
BMW Motorrad leaped onto the emergingmarkets bandwagon April 4th when it
announced a cooperative venture with
Moto Guzzi
has given these
bikes six-speed
transmissions
despite their huge
torque and broad
powerbands. They
shift as well as any
large-displacement
V-Twin I have
ridden, which is
a testament to
the development
efforts since
Piaggio acquired
the brand.
Both the Touring and Custom models
share the same engine, which Moto Guzzi
rates at 96 hp at 6500 rpm and 88.5 footpounds of torque at 2750 rpm.
The braking system (which is not linked)
includes dual 320mm front discs controlled
by quality Brembo radial-mount fourpiston calipers. The rear brake is a 280mm
disc and Brembo two-piston caliper. The
brakes were outstanding during our brief
test, offering huge power with very good
feel. Just what you need when hauling
down a powerful 700-pound machine.
This Moto Guzzi California has come an
awful long way from the decades-old V-7
Police model fancied by the Los Angeles
police department. While that bike had
Moto Guzzi soul, and performed well
motorcycle in terms of riding fun as well as
setting a new benchmark when it comes to
stability, agility and performance figures,”
BMW Motorrad President Stephan
Schaller told the press.
Does that mean we’ll see a $5000 500cc
BMW in US dealers someday? I wouldn’t
guess no, but I’d also posit there will be
plenty of demand for pricier-yet-stillaffordable luxury-branded motorcycles in
India, a market with sales figures that dwarf
ours—for instance, Indian consumers
bought 541,615 two-wheelers in December
2012. From one company. So when you say,
“BMW, bring in that cool little R500GS,
I’ve got my checkbook ready,” make sure
you say it in Hindi.
DUCATI SHAKEUP
I am Mike Padway, and
I ride motorcycles.
Late-breaking (or should we say braking?)
news: Gabriele Del Torchio, Ducati’s
CEO since 2007, has been replaced by
Claudio Domenicali. Domenicali has
22 years of experience with Ducati, and
most notably led the Corse department
to a fantastic string of victories in both
World Superbike and MotoGP. Currently
he was General Manager. “Domenicali
knows Ducati and the motorcycle business
more than anyone,” said Audi (which now
owns Ducati) CEO Rupert Stadler. “He
embodies continuity and Ducati’s values in
an exceptional manner.”
I prefer to represent
motorcycle riders who have
been injured because I like
working with motorcyclists.
We are slightly different than the
rest of the population, in a way that
makes us just a little more engaged,
realistic, and a lot more enjoyable
to be around.
Why Del Torchio left isn’t explained in
Audi’s communications, but we can only
guess it’s because the company isn’t doing
what Audi needs it to do. “Del Torchio
guided Ducati out of an economically
difficult phase, back to a successful growth
path,” said Stadler. “For that achievement,
we express our gratitude on behalf of all
Audi and Ducati employees and wish him
all the best in his future tasks.”
I am proud of the fact that
I protect the interests of
motorcyclists because it
can seem at times like the
deck is stacked against us.
Insurance companies often attempt to use “car logic” to
settle a motorcycle case, and as
you and I both know that is not
fair. Furthermore, it is explicit
that your desire to have your
losses compensated is in direct
conf lict with an important goal
of the insurance industry: to pay
out as little as possible to you, and
maximize their profit!
That is where I come in.
I have decades of experience
navigating the legal and
insurance hurdles, have lectured
nationally for the American
Bar Association, and have represented riders across the
country. Of course, nobody
can guarantee any outcome of
any case, but it is always better
to have representation that is
experienced in your type of case.
PISTON AND CHAIN
CityBike’s North Bay distribution manager and
person-about-town Gwynne Fitzimmons sent
us this report of an interesting new motorcycling
organization:
stages of assembly, occupying the two lifts
and abundant floor space, and more rolled
in while I was there. Several members,
including the owner of two prominent Bay
Area motorcycle dealerships, were hanging
around the large table eating, drinking and
conversing with one another, while others
were hanging out in the kitchen area or on
the eat-you-alive plush leather sofas.
What is Piston & Chain? It’s the
brainstorm and creation of Matt and Erica,
the extension of an idea that formed more
than a year ago in Matt’s San Francisco
garage. Imagine: a co-op for motorcycle
enthusiasts.
They’re not your everyday riding group.
Sure, they gather in the evenings, use
community tools to maintain (and
improve!) their motorcycles. But they
also organize group rides and adventures
featuring all sorts of motorcycles, with
a soft spot for classic bikes of the ‘70s as
well as Adventure and dirt bikes. Piston
& Chain allows for anyone that loves two
wheels to join the club. What sets them
apart is that they are also a retailer—selling
select products, endorsed by members for
the San Francisco motorcycle lifestyle.
According to Matt it took the better part
of a year to find the ideal location, then
renovate the old Mack Folsom Prison sex
There’s a new kid in town!
club into something that even the faint
of heart can enter. The Monday evening
What do you get when you cross a
events range
successful
from presenters
software
such as Joanne
guy, an old
“Gear Chic”
bondage club,
Donn to
a garage full
tire-changing
of gearheads,
seminars.
and a bunch
Additionally,
of people that
Piston &
want to hang
Chain hosts
around, wrench,
provocative
learn, and play
guest such
together? You
as Lyndon
get Piston &
Poskett, a
Chain, a new
Dakar private
face in San
entrant, who
Francisco’s
came
to
discuss
“Dakar
for
Privateers
burgeoning motorcycle scene.
Rally Management Services” and Pierre
I had the good fortune to spend a few hours Terblanche - the ex director of design for
one Wednesday evening at Piston & Chain Ducati (expect a report on Terblanche next
with Matt Work and Erica Fawell. The place month—ed.).
was bustling with activity when I arrived.
An eclectic lineup of bikes was in various
If you have been injured
in a motorcycle accident,
please do not hesitate
to call for a phone
consultation or to set up a
meeting in person. Oh, and
unlike other lawyers you can
talk to me and I will return
your phone call.
If you have been injured on a
motorcycle and need a lawyer, call:
1 (800) 928-1511
www.michaelpadway.com
Wednesday evenings are open wrench
and a strong draw for prospective
members; coupled with a friendly
attitude towards “noobs,” Piston and
Chain is a friendly environment for new
and seasoned riders alike. What does
it take to belong to this group of gifted
individuals representing all makes and
models of folk? There is no initiation fee,
no hang-around clause, no hardbound
contract making you commit the next 20
years of your life and your first born. You
simply check it out, and if it’s something
that suits you there are two options.
A low-cost option, the $29/month
“125cc”, allows access to the shop on
Wednesday nights and the option to rent
a lift or do tire and oil changes. The $59/
month “750cc” members get to use the
shop more frequently, don’t pay for lift
rental or tire/oil disposal, and can leave
their bikes overnight occasionally. Both
levels also get access to club events, shop
rides, movie nights and the right to just
kind of hang out.
Check it out at pistonandchain.com or
swing by the space at 1285 Folsom at
9th street.
SPLITTING HEADACHE IN
NEVADA
What? Facts and data? Being politely
considered by state legislators? Weird,
right? And yet it happened, just next door
in the great state of Nevada, which in mid
March introduced AB236, a bill to amend
the Nevada vehicle code to allow lanesplitting by motorcyclists. Crazy, right?
The legislation was introduced by a trio of
Democratic assemblymen.
According to Surj Gish’s blog,
lanesplittingislegal.com, the bill would
allow motorcycles to lane-split up to
30 mph in stopped or rolling traffic,
reminiscent of the CHP/OTS guidelines
we discussed at length in the March issue
(“Splitting Headache”). According to
hellforleather.com, Assemblyman Daly,
one of the sponsors (and not a rider),
wants to legalize it at the request of a
friend, “to help air-cooled bikes in the
Nevada heat. Some side benefits are to
help commerce, help the state and reduce
overall motorcycle restraints.” Sounds
good to us, but not so much to hysterical
housewifey-type Assemblywoman Maggie
Carlton, who fears somehow her kids
would get their arms broken and the back
of her minivan spattered with biker guts
if this bill passes. “It just seems like a very
dangerous thing to be doing,” she remarked
at the Transportation Committee hearing.
Other member expressed similarly weird
and unfounded concerns.
In the hearing, moto-safety expert Steve
Guderian cited reams of data from
European and U.S. studies that show
lane-splitting may actually be safer than
riding behind cars (as anybody who
has actually lane-split knows). Abovementioned bizarre responses aside, the
legislators seemed to thoughtfully ponder
Steve’s words. We’re hopeful the bill will go
somewhere, although historically, bills like
this—in Oregon and Texas, specifically—
seem to quietly die in committee. We’ll
keep you posted—and you can go to the
Nevada legislature’s website for more
updates. Go to the Hell for Leather website
(hellforleathermagazine.com) to watch
video of the hearings.
Thanks to Jim Edwards of Reno for the tip,
and for Surj’s excellent site.
CALMOTO ON TOP
Kudos to Cal Moto, the two-location
BMW, KTM and Triumph dealer in both
Livermore and Mountain View. Under
new owner Mike Meisner, the dealership
is now one of Triumph North America’s
“Top Dealers,” garnering praise in a recent
national ad campaign. It’s because the shop
advertises in CityBike, of course.
Ducati Superbike racer Cook
Neilson will be on hand,
as will a new vintage-style
250cc racebike, the AVA 250
Swift. Oh, and the barbecue
lunch served at this event
(included with the $65
admission price) has always
been pretty good. Don’t miss
it: go to quaillodgeevents.
com or call 831/620-8879.
SF MOTO GOES
MOBILE
Local shop SF Moto
deserves some kudos for
making it easier to buy, sell
or just browse for new or
used motorcycles—on a
smart phone. The website is
optimized for small-screen
viewing, is easy to search, and
even has a function to allow
you to photograph your bike
to get a valuation from the
sales department. Have your
grandson go to sfmoto.com
and show you how to use it.
SONOMAFEST 2013
Also that week: Sonoma
Raceway brings back
SonomaFest for 2013, May
AKRAPOVICTIMIZED
1-5. It kicks off with a 3J’s
Well, the Black Helicopter Conspiracy
motorcycle track day, a charity event that
guys were right about CARB, at least. The gets you six on-track sessions for $250, a
smog-fighting entity really has crimped our catered lunch, a T-shirt, raffle and evening
freedom to be noisy gross polluters, and it
reception on Wednesday May 1. Proceeds
has taken its toll on the aftermarket exhaust benefit Speedway Children’s Charities.
component industry. The latest victim is
Slovenian company Akrapovic (which,
despite our above pun, is pronounced “uhcrop-oh-vitch”), which had to pay a small
fine and kowtow to the agency after an
audit revealed some of its products weren’t
in compliance with strict new emissions
standards for aftermarket bits.
Retailers and shops all over the state
report dramatic declines in business and
increased oversight from CARB—the
days of slapping on a noisy, “free-flowing”
muffler and rejetting the lean out of your
fueling are gone, at least if you depend on a
licensed shop to do that kind of work.
RAINEY AT THE QUAIL
Another reason to visit the 2013 Quail
Motorcycle Gathering in Carmel this
coming May 4th—the special guest
speaker will be Wayne Rainey himself.
One of his famous racebikes, the YZR500,
will accompany the three-time 500cc GP
winner and Daytona winner. If that’s not
enough to drag you out on a Saturday,
That’s followed by two days of AHRMA
vintage racing, always a good show—
there are nearly 250 entries in 42 classes,
including pre-war, ‘50’s, ‘60s, ‘70s and
modern bikes like Twins and Singles. After
the oil and shattered crankcases have been
powersports.honda.com ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.
NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, AND NEVER USE THE STREET AS A
RACETRACK. OBEY THE LAW AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. For rider training information
or to locate a rider training course near you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 1-800-446-9227. *MSRP
excluding tax, license, registration, $310.00 destination charge and dealer-installed options. Dealer prices may
vary. CTX™ is a trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (03/13)
cleaned up, there will be
two more days of racing in
the form of AFM, where
200 racers battle it out in
dozens of classes, from 250
Production to Formula
Pacific. On the same days,
May 4 and 5, Supermoto
USA will be sliding and
bar-banging at the Raceway
Karting Center.
On Saturday, May 4, our
friends at RKA luggage will
be leading a scenic ride to
the track. The $25 entry
fee gets you into the scenic
Wine Country cruise and
benefits the Speedway
Children’s Charities. For
more info on all this, go to racesonoma.
com or call 800/870-7223.
ONE MORE BELLINO
More words about our sponsors—Dan
Bellino, son of Circle Bell Motorsports’
Bob Bellino, has joined the company as
VP of Operations. Circle Bell markets,
organizes and presents the Sacramento
Mile and Santa Rosa Mile flat-track
events. Dan comes back to racing (he’s
been flying out to the Coast to help out on
race weekends for several years) by way of
the Bronx, where he was a public school
teacher. We’re hoping the new blood will
ensure we’ll enjoy the excitement and
class of AMA flat-track racing in Northern
California for many years to come.
were always
treated
fairly and
with respect
by the
man, who
turned his
experience
as a
journalist
into a
15-year
tenure at the
Raceway.
He was
a classy
dude and
is greatly
missed. He
was married and had two daughters.
For those who would like to make a
donation in John’s honor, a memorial fund
has been set up on behalf of his family.
Donations may be sent to the John
Cardinale Memorial Fund, care
of Sonoma Raceway, 29355
Arnold Drive, Sonoma,
95476.
smoothly and quietly, and it is quiet,
functional and comfortable.
Some alternate products that I’ve tried
have annoying, amplified plastic snapping
or sliding sounds that come out of the face
shield when you operate it, and that makes
them feel cheaper by comparison. The
shields on Arai helmets slide smoothly and
almost silently when opened, which I tend
to do when speed drops or around town.
Just feels smoother and more polished than
other makes of helmet. The face shields
are durable and easy to remove/reinstall
without tools or fooling around, and the
venting has improved over the years as
well, so this is definitely a well-designed
product.
A major safety improvement in this helmet
is a pair of bright orange tabs sewn into the
cheek/jaw pads.
Tugging
on the
Step away from shopping for cheap price
(at $720, this is a premium model) and
start looking for something that you can
live in and with for the long term, and the
RX-Q is a serious contender. It’s designed
for people who are committed to riding
and understand that comfort and a more
refined execution are desirable values in a
helmet.
—Kenyon Wills
SIDI ADVENTURE GORE
A month ago, no one could have convinced
me that I would spend 500 bucks for a pair
of motorcycle boots. Now, a month later,
the price is (almost) long forgotten.
When my Alpinestars bit the dust,
I did a canvass of half a dozen
motorcycle shops, comparing
feature for feature. I read
reviews, I talked to other
riders, I hit the online
forums, and I soul
searched for my own
balance point in the
safety/comfort/
hassle continuum. I
loved the look of the
Sidi On Road boots.
These are the longest
running style, have a
great traditional look,
but are updated with
GoreTex. However,
they did not have the
level of protection I was
looking for.
NEW STUFF
MAY 2013
Q-SHIP
I have favored Arai
helmets since I got
one as my first helmet
in 1993. The RX-Q
STOCKTON HALF-MILE
seems unremarkable
And speaking of flat-track racing, tickets for to me at first glance,
the Stockton Half Mile are now available.
because I’m familiar
The Saturday, May 11th event will feature
and comfortable
AMA pro racers on the New Stockton
with the company’s
99 Speedway track at the Stockton
products already—it’s
Fairgrounds. It’s a full day of racing and
what I have chosen
tickets start at just $30.
20 years. On second
glance, it’s a darned good
PASSING
product that I’ve taken for
CityBike lost a friend when John Cardinale, granted across sequential
helmets from the company.
the long-time media relations manager
Why? The Arai fits my head,
at Sonoma Raceway, passed away after a
its mechanical parts operate
two-year battle with gastric cancer. We
Repair & Service
tabs allows the pads to be removed without
removing the helmet from the rider’s head,
allowing EMTs to remove less stress on
the neck/spine in the event of an accident.
Don’t want my helmet damaging me on the
way off if it comes to that.
I ended up getting the Sidi
Adventure Gore boots. They have
We Ship Worldwide
CALL
US
FIRST!
Salvaged & New Parts!
the all-important stiff sole, which happens
to be a lug pattern that looks good for
walking. They close with two buckles and
a Velcro flap. One buckle tightens the
instep, one the shin, and the Velcro closes
around the shin. There is lots of stiffness
and resistance to twisting an ankle, plenty
of plastic nearly everywhere, but enough
high-quality leather to give them the feel
and ambiance of a leather boot. The usual
features, like protection from the shift lever,
are all taken to high levels.
The fit (I have a medium width, flat foot)
is fantastic. Even as stiff as these were
out of the box, they were immediately
ingratiating. I felt like a little kid who
wants to sleep in his new cowboy
boots. Now that they are wearing in,
they are so very much the better. Of
course, the high level of protection
just feels good when you are on the
bike, but the comfort reinforces this
sensation as well.
On the downside, there are many
reports of squeaking, particularly
when these are new. One online
review said, “no, really” when
describing how loud this was. I
found that mink oil slowly quieted
them down. At least one person wrote he
used WD-40 successfully. The culprit here
seems to be the plastic or the plastic against
the rubber. I have mink oiled twice, and the
squeaking is still there, but tolerable.
The other suggested adjustment I made
was to put in orthotic footbeds. There isn’t
anything wrong with the factory footbeds
(nor should there be, at this price point),
but the aftermarket orthotics “take it up
a notch,” as Emeril would say. With the
orthotics, I often don’t take them off for
several hours when I get to the office. I can
easily see keeping them on at a motorcycle
gathering, and maybe even wearing them
for a day at the races.
They are warm,
however.
Choice of
socks will be
important
on a warm
summer day.
For those of
you who watch
Anthony’s
video reviews
at Revzilla.com,
you know that he
owns a pair of these
boots, has crashed
in them twice, and
loves them (maybe
a little too much, as
he describes them
as “heirloom”
quality). I have no
plans to leave
my boots to
my heirs,
but these are by far the best motorcycle
boots I have ever owned, and I can
recommend them without hesitation.
Get your Sidi boots through your local moto-shop
or Moto Nation: motonation.com, 619/401-4100.
—Mike Padway
LUNASEE
If you want to gussy up your ride for Bike
Night—or make it incredibly visible for
safety reasons—you may have considered
wheel lighting. Unfortunately, it’s a
complex, expensive and time-consuming
project. That’s where Lunasee comes
in. It’s a simple system that uses a small
control unit that draws just .4 amps, LED
light pods that clamp to your swingarm
or fork tubes, and some strips of photoluminescent tape attached to your rims—
and that’s it. The kits run $150 or $200
(one wheel or two) and you can get yours
at Road Rider in San Jose or other dealers.
Call Road Rider at 408/227-6936 or go to
lunasee.com for more information.
New service customers, please
accept a $50 voucher on any service
work on your Jap/ Euro bike as an
introductory gift from us.
510 594 0789
http://www.rockridgetwowheels.com
925 938 0600
http://www.vespawalnutcreek.com
For all your Bay Area
Vespa / Piaggio / Aprilia needs
Tue–Fri 10–6 Sat 9–5
EVENTS MAY 2013
First Monday of each month
(May 6, June 3):
2:30 – 10:00 pm: Northern California
Ducati Bike Nights at Benissimo (one
of Marin’s finest Italian Restaurants), 18
Tamalpias Dr, Corte Madera.
NorCalDoc.com
6:00 pm: American Sport Bike Night
at Dick’s Restaurant and Cocktails,
3188 Alvarado Street, San Leandro.
Bring your Buell and hang out with
like-minded riders. All brands welcome!
Our meeting of Buell and Motorcycle
enthusiasts has been happening the first
Monday of the month for the last 12 years,
without ever missing a meeting. We have
had many local and national celebrities
from the motorcycle world grace our
meetings. It has been fun and exciting.
americansportbikenight.net
First Wednesday of each month
(May 8, June 5)
6:00 pm: Bay Area Moto Guzzi
Group monthly dinner at Vahl’s in
Alviso (1512 El Dorado Street, Alviso,
410/2620731). Members, interested
Guzzi riders, and all other motorcycle
riders always welcome. More information,
contact Pierre at: 408/710-4886 or
[email protected].
Second Tuesday of Each Month
(May 14, June 11)
6:30 pm to 10:00 pm: East Bay Ducati
Bike Night at Pizza Antica (3600
Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 925/2990500) Bike parking on the street right in
front of the restaurant, indoor and heated
outdoor seating, excellent wine list.
All moto brands welcome. Bring your
appetite and a smile, be prepared to make
new friends.
Third Wednesday of Each Month
(May 15, June 19)
Third Sunday of each month
(May 19, June 16):
9:00 am: California (Northern)
Moto Guzzi National Owners Club
(MGNOC) breakfast at Putah Creek
Cafe in picturesque Winters, California
(Highways 505/128) MGNOC members
and interested Guzzi riders meet for
breakfast and a good time. The Putah
Creek Cafe is located at Railroad Avenue.
More information contact: Northern
California MGNOC Rep, Don Van Zandt
at 707-557-5199.
Evenings: Moto-Sketch at Tosca Cafe:
come and sketch a live model draped
over a custom bike. $7 to sketch, free to
just watch. Tosca Cafe, 242 Columbus
Ave. in S.F.
Friday, April 26th
10:00 am-4:30 pm: Spyder Demo
Tours at California Speed Sports
in Livermore (2310 Nissen Drive,
Livermore, 925/606-1998,
speed-sports.com)
Once again California Speed-Sports
has been selected for 1 of only 3 stops
in Northern California in 2013 for the
The Can-Am demo tour was designed
to allow people to try a Can-Am Spyder
roadster with the supervision of our
experienced staff. California Speed-Sports
is the only BRP Platinum Certified Spyder
Dealer in the Bay Area and welcomes you
to come experience our dealership first
hand and judge for yourself. To reserve a
time, just go to tinyurl.com/cvh399u and
fill out the registration form.
Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28
10:00 am to 4:00 pm both days: Dream
Machines Show at the Half Moon Bay
airport (9850 N. Cabrillo Highway)
For a remarkable and singular experience,
there’s nothing that matches up to the
Pacific Coast Dream Machines Show.
It’s a whimsical, fascinating, amusing,
curious and absolutely unique show and
tell spectacle featuring 2000 magnificent
6:00 pm to 10:00 pm: Emeryville
Ducati Bike Night at Hot Italian (5959
Shellmound Street #75, Emeryville,
510/652-9300) A fun, social atmosphere
for Ducati owners, folks that want to
become Ducati owners, and folks that
don’t yet know that they want to become
Ducati owners, to sit, eat, talk, walk
around and look at other Ducatis. All
brands and models of motorcycles are
welcome, so please don’t be put off by the
event name.
From 3:14 Daily
Valencia @ 25th
415-970-9670
7:00 pm: Seca II Meet-up at
Lanesplitter in Oakland (4799
Telegraph Ave, 510/653-5350) Luddites
who are happy with 20-year-old aircooled tech gather to spend their
unemployment checks on important
things: pizza and beer. All makes/models
are welcome, though the management
has requested that we be less rowdy so
as not to intimidate the hipsters. Email
[email protected] for more
info.
Thursday April 25, 7:00 pm Trackday Prep and Race seminar
Saturday, April 27, 10:00 am: Tire Change Workshop
Sunday April 28th, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance
Thurs May 2 5:00 pm Chain & Sprocket Workshop
Sunday May 5, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance
Thursday, May 9, 6:00 pm: Engine Rebuild
Friday, May 10, 5:00 pm: Brakes Workshop
Saturday, May 11, 9:00 am: Valve Workshop
Racer Gloves are designed in Austria to be the best
fitting gloves you’ll ever buy—or your money back.
And we’ll back it up with free shipping both ways.
We’re not happy unless you’re happy.
Sunday May 12, 10:00 am: Tire Change Workshop
Wednesday, May 15, 5:00 pm: Oil and Coolant
Saturday May 18, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance
Sunday May 19, 10:00 am: Ducati Valve Adjusting
Friday May 24 5:00 pm Chain & Sprocket Workshop
Saturday May 25, 10:00 am: Tire Change Workshop
Sunday May 26th, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance
Call 408.852.0700
Morgan Hill, CA
racerglovesusa / racerglovesusa.com
All motorcycles are welcome for display.
Club rides are welcome. The lineup
will feature all models, makes and ages
from turn-of-the-century Indians to
customized modern-day Harleys. You’ll
see everything from Ducati, Norton,
BMW, Moto Guzzi and more represented.
To show a motorcycle, the registration fee
is $30 ($40 for entries postmarked after
April 15) and includes a commemorative
pin and admission for two people.
Wednesday, May 1 to Sunday, May 5
Fri May 3 Noon to Evening: Int. Female Ride Day Event and Party
THE BEST FITTING
GLOVES YOU CAN BUY
driving, flying and working machines
from the 20th and 21st centuries. The
world’s coolest cars of every era and style,
model-T fire engines, vintage busses,
custom motorcycles, tricked out trucks,
sleek streamliners, one-of-a-kind antique
engines and tractors and historic military
aircraft will be among the mesmerizing
displays.
Spectator admission is $20 ($30 for 2-day
pass) for adults, $10 ($15 for 2-day pass)
for ages 11-17 and 65+, and free for kids
age 10 and under. Tickets are available
at the gate only. The show benefits the
Coastside Adult Day Health Center. For
information and registration forms, call
650/726-2328 or miramarevents.com/
dreammachines.
Events at Motoshop:
325 South Maple Ave #20, South San Francisco. 650/239-6686,
bayareamotoshop.com
Wednesday, May 29th, 5:00 pm: Brakes Workshop
Clinics and classes start at $40.
State Beach to celebrate the life of rider,
racer and CityBike contributor Gary
Jaehne. Hot-dog lunch after stop at
Another reason to visit the 2013
crash site for some memory-sharing.
Quail Motorcycle Gathering—the Volunteers needed! If you can help out,
special guest speaker will be Wayne contact Marci at 408/426-0696. Thanks
Rainey himself. One of his famous to Santa Clara Cycle Accessories for
racebikes, the YZR500, will
sponsoring this event.
accompany the three-time 500cc
GP winner and Daytona winner. If BMW Club of Northern California
41st Annual 2013 ‘49er Rally (Mariposa
that’s not enough to drag you out
Fairgrounds, 5007 Fairgrounds Rd.
on a Saturday, Ducati Superbike
Mariposa, 209/966-2432)
racer Cook Neilson will be on
hand, as will a new vintage-style
Join us in Mariposa, California, the
250cc racebike, the AVA 250 Swift.
gateway to Yosemite, in the Sierra Nevada
Plus you get to see hundreds of beautiful
Foothills. Includes four nights flat
classic motorcycles and chat with their
grassy camping and hot showers (early
owners, who may pin you to the ground
bird camping on or before Wednesday
and talk to you for 45 minutes about
available--$10 tent / $25 RV per night).
nickel plating. Also—there’s a bike corral
Poker Run, GS Ride, English Trials,
to allow buyers and sellers of classic/
Skills and Safety Clinic, Children Events,
interesting/vintage bikes to meet face-toSeminars, CHP Officer Greg Peart,
face.
Vendors, Bier Garten, Door Prizes.
Oh, and the barbecue lunch served at this Featured speakers: Carla King helps
celebrate women riders and Rick Klain
event (included with the $65 admission
talks about cellphone photography.
price) has always been pretty good. This
Also, Sat. BBQ Dinner with vegetarian
really is a classy event, well worth the
option (PRE-REGISTERED ONLY).
ticket price. Don’t miss it!
Rally costs $45 adult / $15 child
Saturday, May 11
under 12 years pre-registered, children
under 6 admitted free; $55 adult / $20
7:00 pm-10:20 pm: Stockton HalfMile Pro AMA Flat-Track (San Joaquin child under 12 years at the gate. For
County Fairgrounds, 1658 South Airport information or registration write: BMW
Club of NorCal, 2012 ‘49er Rally, 2540
Way, Stockton)
Maywood Dr, San Bruno, CA 94066.
New Stockton 99 Dirt Track at the
Email: registration49er@yahoo.
Fairgrounds will bring a totally different
com or check our website for the latest
genre of racing to the dirt. The AMA Pro news, info, and online registration at:
Flat Track Series will invade our town
bmwnorcal.org/49er
with their high-powered, two-wheel
Thursday, May 30
machines and try to conquer the hardpacked, clay surface at the Fairgrounds.
7:00 pm: An Evening with Rene
These are some of the best motorcycle
Cormier at Santa Rosa BMW Triumph
riders in the world, and they possess some Motorcycles (800 American Way,
of the greatest throttle-control anywhere
Windsor, 707/ 838-9100, santarosabmw.
as they race peg to peg and grip to grip, the com)
action never stops. This Event is expected
An evening presentation by Rene
to fill the Fairgrounds, once again, so it is
Cormier; world traveler, and author
best to buy your tickets early as they will
of “The University of Gravel Roads; a
go fast. Mark your calendars and don’t
Four-Year Motorcycle Adventure.” Rene
miss out on this fantastic, AMA Pro Flat
Track Series race when they come to battle will share tales of his travels, discuss his
new book, and talk about the adventure
in Stockton.
motorcycle tours he leads throughout
Tickets are on sale at Stockton 99
Africa.
Speedway. Contact the Speedway Office
at 209/466-9999 or visit stockton99.com. $10 per person. Call or stop by the
dealership to pay for your ticket in
Saturday, May 18
advance. Space is limited.
10:00 am-6:00 pm: Marin Speed
Shop Open House (137 Front Street,
San Rafael, 415/456-3345
8205 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel,
831/624-2888, quaillodge.com)
Can-Am Spyder Demo Tour Truck. The
BRP demo truck will be bringing plenty
of Spyder RS’s, RT’s and the brand new
STs available in both manual and semiautomatic transmissions. You must be
at least 21 years old and have a valid
California drivers license.
Sonomafest 2013! (Sonoma Raceway,
Highways 121 and 37, Sonoma.
racesonoma.com, 800/870-7223)
It kicks off with a 3J’s motorcycle track
day, a charity event that gets you six ontrack sessions for $250, a catered lunch,
a T-shirt, raffle and evening reception
on Wednesday May 1. Proceeds benefit
Speedway Children’s Charities.
That’s followed by two days of AHRMA
vintage racing, always a good show—
there are nearly 250 entries in 42 classes,
including pre-war, ‘50’s, ‘60s, ‘70s and
modern bikes like Twins and Singles.
After the oil and shattered crankcases
have been cleaned up, there will be two
more days of racing in the form of AFM,
where 200 racers battle it out in dozens of
classes, from 250 Production to Formula
Pacific. On the same days, May 4 and 5,
Supermoto USA will be sliding and barbanging at the Raceway Karting Center.
On Saturday, May 4, our friends at RKA
luggage will be leading a scenic ride to the
track. The $25 entry fee gets you into the
scenic Wine Country cruise and benefits
the Speedway Children’s Charities.
Saturday, May 4
10:00 am-3:30 pm: Fifth Annual Quail
Motorcycle Gathering (Quail Lodge,
Get down and funky with Marin Speed
Shop Ducati/Triumph. Check out a
display of vintage bikes including a rare
‘74 Ducati 750SS. There will be vendor
displays and reps, including Shoei,
Arai, Weaver’s Coffee and Triumph.
Also: raffle, prize giveaways, and a D.J.
spinning Mods and Rockers-themed
music. Demo rides and more fun and
games—be sure to drop by.
Sunday, May 19
11:00 am: Memorial Ride for Gary
Jaehne (Skyline Market/Alice’s
Restaurant, intersection of Hwys. 35
and 84, Sky Londa) Ride to Pescadero
Sunday, June 2nd
11:00 am Send-off for Clancy Centennial
Ride (Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco,
watch this space for more details)
Join CityBike Chief of the World
Adventure Affairs Desk Dr. Gregory
W. Frazier record the San Francisco
Start of the North American leg of the
Clancy Adventure ride commemorating
the round-the-world adventures of Carl
Clancy and Walter Storey. Dr. Frazier
will then join BMW-sponsored riders
Geoff Hill, Gary Walker and other globewandering celebrants across the USA and
eventually into the bowels of New York
City. Check horizonsunlimited.com/
clancy for more details.
2013 Zero S ZF11.7
By Gabe Ets-Hokin
Photos by Bob Stokstad
“Really?”
T
hat’s what I said to myself in my
helmet as the 2011 Zero S I was
riding spent its last electron and
coasted silently to a stop, less than 10 miles
from where our short press-launch ride
loop had started. To be fair, I was in the
third wave of journalists riding the bikes
that day, and we didn’t start our ride with a
full charge...but 10 miles?
Fast forward just two years and:
“Really?”
That’s what I said to myself as my brightyellow 2013 Zero S rolled past yet another
exit on highway 24 on the way to Walnut
Creek. I had left my house in Oakland
earlier that evening, ridden to downtown
San Francisco, and then on the way home,
wondered how far it would go. The digital
“fuel” gauge indicated nine bars of 11
remaining as I approached the CA-24 exit
in Oakland, so I shrugged and blasted up
the long uphill section to the Caldecott
tunnel.
I wasn’t going to baby the bike on the
way there. I was riding like I ride my
personal ride, fast and aggressive, holding
Really? Yes, really.
held it at a steady 70 mph, I probably could
my position in traffic to stay clear of the
drunks, the distracted, the inattentive and have gone 70 miles—two miles past Davis,
just 11 miles short of Sacramento.
just plain mean that roam the freeways at
night. With the “Sport” mode engaged,
the Zero has no trouble keeping ahead of
most anything else on the road. We passed
the Lafayette exit; now the little bars were
disappearing every few miles. Number six
blinked out of existence just before I passed
the “Walnut Creek 3 Miles” sign.
Minutes later, the Walnut Creek BART
station entrance was in front of the Zero’s
bright, clear headlamp. Five bars—less
than half of the battery gauge—remained,
and range anxiety reared its ugly head.
I decided to slow it down, trailing 100
yards behind an obvious drunk driver as
he weaved gently along between 55 and
60 mph. Ten miles down the road, I was
back at the Caldecott tunnel, facing a long
downhill back to Oakland—with three
bars remaining, I decided to pin it in Sport
mode all the way home. As I waited for
my garage door to open, the gauge was
blinking the last bar—enough for another
5-10 miles of freeway travel, but 50 miles
was more than enough to tell me electric
motorcycles may have come of age. Had I
presents 45th annual
2013
909.629.7420
ClassicCycleEvents.com
May
18,
2013
a helmet lock. Wheels are 17-inchers, sized
for bias-ply rubber (IRC Road Winners, a
110/70-17 in front and 130/70-17 in back).
Simple Nissan brake calipers, two-piston in
front and one-pot in back provide braking,
and suspension is handled by Taiwanese
manufacturer Fast Ace. The inverted
38mm fork offers adjustable rebound and
Zero models, but still about
the weight of a 250cc-class
sportbike and 83 pounds
lighter than the Brammo
Empulse R—combined with
a new, low and narrow (but
comfortable for an hour or
two) 31.3-inch seat, means
the bike is easy to handle
around town. Operation
couldn’t get any easier—turn
the key, flip the kill switch to
‘run’ and wait for the green
light to illuminate on the
Koso instrument cluster.
Depending on which ride
mode you’ve selected—sport
or ‘eco,’ the throttle response
is either mellow or energetic,
but always linear (like an
electric motor, ha, ha) and
smooth. There is no clutch,
and the huge belt-driven rear
sprocket seems like a good
gearing choice.
The instruments are functional, with
a tachometer (that has almost no
meaning—I stopped noticing it), charge
meter, speedometer but no clock.
The 2013 Zero S is is a brand-new
motorcycle and a far cry from the crude
early-model Zero S we tested just four
years ago (“Zero Electric Motorcycle,” June
2009). Almost every component has been
touched by the new-stick, from the battery
to the frame to the motor. The 2012 models
(see “Electric Boogaloo,” April 2012) were
heavily refreshed—and offered a lot more
range than the 2011 (which offered a lot
more range than the 2010, and so on)—but
still shared some components with earlier
models.
compression damping, and the rear shock
is three-way adjustable.
The battery and motor are all new. The
‘Z-Force’ brushless electric motor is
handsome, with gold-anodized cooling
fins, and is also maintenance-free. Zero
says it has the windings built into the
outside casing for better heat dissipation,
which means the added weight of liquidcooling is unnecessary. Zero claims it
makes 54 horsepower and 68 ft.-lbs. of
torque—that extra power needs more
juice, so for 2013 there are two battery
options: an 8.5 kilowatt/hour (kwh) pack
and a super-sized 11.4 kwh box that costs
an extra $2000 but also offers 20 percent or
more range. Those numbers, by the way, are
maximum capacity—nominal capacities, a
more realistic way of talking about battery
capacity, are 7.5 and 10 kwh, respectively.
No more. The 19.5-pound aluminum
frame is new and makes the motor a
stressed member, plus the swingarm
is stiffer, and passenger pegs are now
standard. The bodywork is all new—
lovingly penned by talented industrial
designed Matt Bentley—and incorporates
a big space behind the steering head (can’t
Ready to ride, the Zero S weighs in at
call it a “tank” anymore, can we?) for a
355 pounds for the 8.5, 387 for the 11.4.
removable soft storage bag, held in place by
Those small numbers—heavier than prior
Moto Shop is a 4,000 sq.ft. do-it-yourself shop
where you can work on your own motorcycle
or bring your bike to a workshop and learn how.
We offer the tools and resources to help you fix
and maintain your motorcycle.
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325 South Maple Ave #20 South San Francisco
www.BayAreaMotoShop.com
As an urban errand-runner, the Zero is
tough to beat. No clutch, no gears and a
reasonable steering lock means it’s lowimpact and easy to maneuver through tight
spaces. Acceleration in either mode is more
than ample for light-to-light drag races. On
bumpy pavement, the suspension can be
wanting; the damping felt overwhelmed
and transmitted jolts through the seat.
Another nit I can pick is the lack of a
locking trunk like Honda’s NC700X—the
soft bag is spacious and handy (although
it won’t fit a helmet) but not secure. An
accessory rack with Givi trunk ($600) is
available.
Take it to a winding two-lane road and you
can see the value of going electric. Roll on
and off the throttle and focus on your lines
through the turn—no need to worry about
shifting or throttle response. Both Sport
and Eco mode offer engine braking—
obviously, you get a lot more from Eco—
which makes the experience feel familiar to
those of us raised on four-stroke sportbikes.
you tune the modes from
your smart phone? These
bikes pair via Bluetooth
with a smart phone, and
the Zero app offers lots of
functionality (download it
and check it out at the App
Store or on Google Play),
including the ability to adjust
top speed and regenerative
braking in eco mode. You can
also customize the display
to show all kinds of data,
including distance to empty,
battery temperature, current
draw, torque and yes, a clock.
Zero provided me with a
handy X-Grip mount from
RAM that held my iPhone
5 securely in place, despite
the jarring from the firm
suspension.
How fast will it go? The Zero
S does indeed rocket up to an
the surprisingly good IRCs. The aggressive exactly what Zero claims. On another
indicated 95 mph top speed,
steering geometry—short wheelbase, steep journey I held the speed constant between 91 mph on my iPhone’s GPS app. Hold the
55 and 60 mph and went 38 miles on 40
rake—light weight and narrow bias-plies
throttle wide open too long and a “water
percent of the bike’s charge—with some
makes the bike easy and fun to pilot, and
temp” icon warning lights up, but Zero says
practice, 100 miles at (slow) freeway speeds that’s normal, part of the safety protocols
I was again surprised about the grip these
may be possible. Riding like grandma on
tires (the same as the Ninja 300’s) offer.
and doesn’t
Librium is no
indicate
Still, it’s not an electric GSX-R, but what
fun, true—but
battery or
I think of as the Zero’s competition—
knowing you
motor damage.
middleweight Twins like Suzuki’s SFV650 have that kind
That will also
or Honda’s NC700X—don’t offer MotoGP of range makes
discharge your
suspension and brakes either. It’s useable
shorter trips a
battery at a
on the open road, fun to ride around town, lot more fun, as
dizzying rate.
even more fun in the twisties and easy to
you can waste
But Lord, is
operate. What you want to know is how
battery power
that fun, and
economical it is, how far it will go, how
with quick
Harden tells
fast you can ride it and how long it takes to acceleration
me different
charge.
and higher
gearing (or
speeds worry
a higherThe 2013 Zero S doesn’t need many
capacity
excuses in those departments. The ZF11.4, free.
Sevcon controller) could get the speed even
when ridden at a steady speed in the Eco
Many motorcycles now offer on-the-fly
higher.
mode, can carry a 140-pound rider around mapping adjustments, but how many let
70 miles at a steady 70 miles per hour,
The brakes are much better than prior
iterations of the Zero S. They won’t win
any awards, and notably lack ABS—a
big ding against a product best-suited
for commuting fixed distances on busy
highways and byways. (Why no ABS, I
asked Scot Harden, Zero’s VP for PR. Cost,
he said: $600,000 or more to tool up for it.
But he said it will be mandatory by 2016,
so the company is working on it.) But the
bike is fairly light, so there’s a surprising
amount of feel, bite and power from the
front binder, though I was happiest using
a four-finger squeeze. The rear was weak,
surprising given the S’ supermoto DNA.
The suspension is also a limitation, but
I’ve ridden much worse. Fast Ace is
primarily a supplier for mountain bikes
and mini-motos, but a lot of thought and
development went into developing it
for this application, so it’s better than it
sounds. The other limitation may be the
comfortably low footpegs, which can drag
if you’re really aggressive, a possibility with
Here’s what I know about charging—it’s
easy. Pull into the garage, switch off the
key, plug the cord into the little socket,
and you’re done. After a few times you
don’t even think about it. A little light on
the dash flashes until it’s charged. Every
morning, when you open your garage,
the bike will be fully charged and ready.
Cut the time in half for every $750 quick
charger you install, up to three—you can
get it down to about two hours. Does your
motorcycle fill itself with gas every time
you park it in your garage? Turns out I
live in a gas station with a (semi) clean
bathroom, which is as convenient as it
sounds.
A new
approach
to rider
training
Out and about, charging is a little more
complex. Pull up to a public charge station
and there’s nowhere for you to plug in that
distinctive J1772 pistol-grip, unless you
opted for the $400 optional socket. These
stations will charge you up from dead in
about 4 hours, although you can speed
things up by plugging into the 110 outlet
as well. If you’re at an elusive CHAdeMO
stations (this is changing—expect 4000
CHAdeMO stations in the USA by the
end of 2014) and you splurged on the
$1800 accessory, you could be on your way
in under an hour with a 95 percent charge.
How much? A lot. The Zero S rings in at
$13,995 for the ZF8.5, $15,995 for the
11.4 I rode. In California, state and federal
tax credits pay you back about $2400, but
you’re still looking at a premium of about
$6000 if you figure (like I do) that the
Zero offers performance pretty equal to
a 650 Twin like the Honda NC700X or
Street
beginner through advanced
Mechanical
oil changes to engine rebuilds
Now Open!
415-294-5005
www.motorcycleuniversity.net
Suzuki SFV650, at least in the parts of the
powerband where we spend most of our
time. You can see that difference two ways:
a guilt tax paid only by nerds and econuts or a pre-payment of fuel costs for a
dedicated moto-commuter who knows his
or her commute will be the same distance
every day.
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The Zero S (and by extension, the Zero
DS, which is similar, except with shorter
gearing, more suspension travel and a
19-inch front wheel) is now a mature
product that doesn’t need a lot of excuses.
It’s a functional solution for the roughly
185,000 Americans who commute by
motorcycle but travel less than 30 minutes
each way.* It’s also really fun to ride, with a
character and user-friendliness you won’t
find in a gas motorcycle. Harden told me
there won’t be any big leaps in range, speed
or charge times in the near future, which
removes yet another excuse for not getting
one.
The electric motorcycle, represented by the
2013 Zero S I rode, has arrived—really. It’s
not perfect, or right for everybody, and it
won’t replace the fleet of gas-powered bikes
in your garage. But it’s great at what it does,
is fun to ride and worth a second look.
Really.
*The U.S.Census reported 294,000 Americans
commute by motorcycle, and that about 34 percent
of all commuters travel more than 30 minutes
each way. I don’t know if the numbers correlate
perfectly, so 185,000 may be optimistic, but more
likely is conservative, as I would guess motorcyclists
on average have shorter commutes than our carenclosed brethren.
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Exclusive First Ride: RedShift BRD Supermoto
By Gabe Ets-Hokin, photos by Alan
Lapp, stunt-doubling by Peter Mars
Marc Fenigstein, the passionate CEO
of San Francisco’s BRD Motorcycles,
isn’t one of these wild-eyed futurists
(like me) who predicts the demise of the
gas engine in 10 years. He admits that
for many applications, the
internal-combustion motor
is just better. “To move a bike
at 150 mph for an hour you
need gasoline.” But take aim
at specific niches and that
changes—for instance, the
kind of motorcycling we love
to do as CityBike readers,
bombing around the twisty,
bumpy, tight quarters of San
Francisco, or terrorizing a
kart track with a dozen likeminded idiots. You don’t need
to go 150 in those situations.
Fifty is thrilling enough and
70 feels like Armageddon.
Electric slider
then get ridden to work on Monday. It’s
the result of an ongoing three-year quest
to produce a home-grown production
electric motorcycle, a priceless prototype
representing many thousands of
development hours and VC dollars—and
we were invited to ride it around town.
This is no tarted-up
electric bicycle with
chintzy components. It’s
a hardcore competition
machine dreamed up
when the four-stroke
250 motocross class
came into being,
according to Chief
Technical Officer Derek
Dorresteyn. That means
top-notch everything:
rigid aluminum
motocrosser chassis
(the development team
used current 250-class
motocross machines as
their benchmark), racespec suspension (with
assistance from local
suspension-tuning guru
Super Plush), top-shelf
Brembo brakes—it’s
That’s where BRD’s creation,
the $15,495 RedShift SM
may be a game-changer.
It’s a full-fledged racebike,
designed to dominate in the
250 classes on Sunday—and
the real deal, and riders report
reduced lap times compared
to gas-powered bikes with
similar power-to-weight ratios
(40 horsepower pushing 250
From left to right: Derek Dorresteyn, Chief Technical Officer, Chris Blain, Senior Design Engineer, Rob Sweney,
pounds in race trim), thanks to
Senior Mechanical Engineer, David Drennan, Lead Mechanical Engineer, Jeff Sand, Chief Design Officer and
the ease of use provided by the
crash-test dummy Peter Mars in BRD’s top-secret design lab.
smooth powerband and lack of
shifting.
could easily handle that. So why not give it
more range? Weight, said Fenigstein; 5.2
kwh is enough for several sessions on the
supermoto track, or 30-60 miles of spirited
city riding. The BRD batteries are the
most energy-dense on the market, but still
weigh over 60 pounds—getting to Zero-ish
ranges would also result in a bike well over
300 pounds, disappointing the design brief.
After reading the riot act on motojournalist
antics—”this is a priceless prototype”—
Fenigstein made sure we understood that
not only is the bike a development mule
(which is why we didn’t take any close-up
action shots of the bike), with work-inprogress throttle response and other rough
edges—it’s a racebike, not a newbiefriendly commuter. So I took off from the
BRD’s Potrero-Hill headquarters with
some trepidation.
I need not have worried. The throttle is
sensitive and responsive, as are the brakes,
but it’s not as terrifying as, say, a CR500,
which I’ve ridden in supermoto guise.
It was actually tractable and pleasant,
with the exception of having explosive
acceleration and brick-wall brakes that
probably won’t suffer fools. The Super
Plush suspension was...super plush, but
controlled, and the handling up Twin
Peaks was as effortless and fast as you’d
expect—just like a well-sorted supermoto
should be. Freeway cruising wasn’t as
pleasant—it topped out around 75 mph
(because of gearing).
CityBike Test: 2013 Hyosung GT-R 250
By Gabe Ets-Hokin and Alan Lapp
photos by Alan Lapp
Gabe Ets-Hokin:
Mouse in a lion suit
W
hat’s the best first bike?
Jaehne tested its
naked sister some
time ago (“Korean
Conflict,” April 2010)
.
Yep, the Ninja 300
If your life is like mine, you
presents a high bar,
get asked that a lot. I think it’s
so it’s unfair to make
actually not a very good question, as there a direct comparison.
are a lot of unknowns in it. Best first bike
But pit it against the
for whom? For what? What will you do
Honda or the priorwith it? How much money do you want
gen Ninja—2012
to spend? How tall are you? Do you enjoy
or older—and the
being terrified? And so on.
Hyosung isn’t looking
too bad. The big
If you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before,
tube-steel frame looks
an appropriate-sized learner bike should
suspiciously like a
be your first moto-purchase. Motorcycles
Suzuki GS500E’s
are like shoes—you buy what fits you
(not a bad thing—the
now, not what you’ll “grow into” six or 12
GS500 is a pretty
months in the future. If you’re an averagegood-handling ride),
sized person, small, lightweight bikes
but it offers lots of
like the CBR250R or Ninja 250R can be
room between the
good choices if you are already confident
wheels—the 56.5with basic operation of a motorcycle. But
inch wheelbase is a
though I’m a small person (albeit, as the
full inch longer than a
song says, Big in Japan), Americans are
Honda CBR1000RR,
large people, and if you want to avoid being
for instance—and the
the proverbial monkey humping a football,
tall seat, almost 33 inches off the ground,
you’ll want a bike with a small engine but
will offer nice legroom for the long-oflarge physical size.
leg, panicky moments for the shorties. At
A dual-sport is a good choice here, but what 5-foot-7, I could mostly get my feet flat on
the ground, but calling this 416-pound
if you crave the sportbike riding position
bike (3 pounds lighter than a GSX-R750)
and look? There’s really only one choice,
and you may be surprised it’s been with us a “little” 250 indicates a conditional
for a long time in the form of the Hyosung understanding of that word.
GT250R.
The chassis is finished with some
The GT250 platform has been in the USA surprisingly nice touches for a $4099
from almost the start, but it has been slowly motorcycle. The bodywork’s
styling is fresh enough to get
improved and upgraded over the years.
The full-faired GT250R joined the lineup, admiring glances, there are
decent passenger
then fuel-injection came in 2010. It’s been
accommodations
pretty much the same for a while, and it’s
and a
been even more eclipsed by the wildly
enthusiastic response to the Kawasaki
Ninja 300R. So we’re just getting around to
checking it
out, though
the late and
great Gary
4.5-gallon gas tank (which means you
might sell the bike before you run it out
of gas), and the digital dash, though hard
to see sometimes in the daylight, offers
adjustable backlighting. The mirrors are
broad and give good visibility. The forks
are large inverted units—the only bike
in the class so equipped—but offer no
adjustability. Rear shock has no damping
adjustment, but does have a threaded
adjuster for preload and works
through a linkage. Tires
are Shinko, in large-ish
110/70-17 and 150/7017 sizes, and brakes are
dual disc in
front, with
wooden-
So—not a freeway commuter. To appreciate
this bike, you have to enjoy the fast-paced,
madcap riding style S.F. motorcyclists
practice: blasting through construction
The bike’s price may induce sticker shock
in a Top-Ramen-eating racer, but pull back zones, crossing over sidewalks, squeezing
in between impossibly tiny gaps in traffic,
and look at the whole picture. A 250-class
wheelieing and speeding everywhere,
motocrosser or supermoto needs a lot
getting big air on the crests of the City’s
of maintenance. Not as much as a twomany steep hills. All these things, are, of
stroker, but a lot. Pistons, crankshafts,
course, ill-advised and illegal (even if you
clutches, they all wear out quickly under
don’t get caught), but that doesn’t mean we
the strains of competition and can eat up
the $8000-ish price difference quicker than don’t practice them from time to time. We’re
only human, after all.
you’d think, especially if you’re making
every event. Oh, yeah, and gas costs money
The BRD Redshift would be an ideal
too—and race thumpers eat a lot of it.
partner in crime for the well-heeled
urban motorcyclist—as well as a fun,
Our plan for the test ride was to do some
competitive tool for the supermoto track.
freeway riding, cruise up to Twin Peaks,
Will enough well-heeled buyers agree
then work our way down to Pier 30 for
photos. No problem, said Fenigstein—the when the first bikes start rolling off the
production lines?
bike’s 5.2 kilowatt-hour (kwh) battery
feeling TCIC (Tae Chung Industrial
Corporation, in case you play with the
“Korean Heavy Industry Superstars” set of
Trivial Pursuit cards) two-piston calipers
that Al reports “make an entertaining
sound when you use them.”
The engine is a serviceable item that seems
intended for a third-world audience despite
some sophisticated touches. It’s a dual
overhead cam 249cc air/oil cooled Twin,
with an oversquare bore, fuel-injection and
four valves per cylinder. It’s got a pretty
mellow compression ratio—10.2:1, and
the exhaust headers are garden-hose small.
This means the motor feels like it’s not
breathing as well as it could, and the
dyno numbers bear this out—other
publications report around 22-25
horsepower on the dyno. It’s slowrevving and not as smooth as a
more modern liquid-cooled
design might be, but it’s
enough power to move the
and the shift lever throw is very long,
making the shifting seem slow and notchy.
That’s a pretty short list, two of which are
very easily fixed.
The unexpected turn to the conversation
came when we started discussing…racing.
Yes, racing. Both Gabe and I are former
racers, and it’s a touchstone for us. The local
racing organization, AFM, has two classes
which this bike is eligible, 250 Production,
and more interesting, 250 Superbike. The
Ninja 250/300 is the dominant force in
these classes. We discussed what it would
take to make this bike into a competitive
tool for Ninja beating.
bike ahead of car traffic,
offers a flexible powerband
that’s easy to use and is
good for a top speed well
into the 90s.
Actually, “nineties” is a
good word to describe
the GT250R. The riding
position, big humped tank
and general feel of the bike
is Japan, Inc. c. 1994—and
that’s a good thing, I think.
The adjustable footpegs
(nice touch!) and low
clip-ons are classic Japanese sportbike,
as are the chassis numbers. This makes
the motorcycle feel stable in turns, with
steering that’s high-effort for such a small
bike. Suspension is surprisingly well
sorted, even for me at 140 pounds and Big
Al at...well, let’s just say at a lot more. I did
experience some jarring from the back
end, but I didn’t adjust the preload, and
the forks are probably easily tuneable with
$20 of fork oil and some spring selection.
The tires seemed grippy enough, but are
an unknown quantity and damped my
enthusiasm for pushing it on cold winter
rides.
represents a solid (but not great) value
at $4099. I’d strongly recommend it to
bigger riders looking for a sportbike that
looks cool but is forgiving and suitable for
learning—or somebody looking for a fun
and frugal everyday commuter (you may
want to also consider the naked GT250,
which has an upright handlebar and $3799
MSRP). I really enjoyed my time on the
Hyosung and am eager to try out the $5599
GT650.
Alan Lapp:
The amazing little big bike.
the size of a full-sized bike, the seat height
isn’t especially low, which removes it from
consideration for the inseam challenged).
The GT-R doesn’t do anything surprising:
it’s absurdly stable, has good-but-not-toogood brakes, the chassis goes where you
point it with no drama, and the motor is
tame and predictable. It’s a sane, fun, unintimidating little bike, and that’s a good
thing.
The obvious shortcoming is the motor. It
doesn’t rev very quickly, which is indicative
that there is an air-flow restriction. It could
be something as simple as a restrictor plate
at the airbox intake, or under-sized exhaust.
We believe that any competent tuner could
find some more power in this motor. The
OEM tires are a high-mileage compound,
but in a fairly common size supported by
race-tire manufacturers (Pilot Powers,
for instance).
Rubber brake
lines are easily
replaced with
more-rigid
braided-steel
lines (though
brake pads
might be a
problem). The
upside-down
forks could be
sprung and
valved, and
a rear shock
could be
sourced from
a builder that
does custom work, such as RaceTech or
Works (I suspect an older Japanese sportbike
model may use a similar shock—ed.).
Reducing weight would necessarily be
another important step toward achieving a
light, fun little race platform, but this bike
has a lot of heavy-looking stuff attached to
it.
Seriously, when was the last time anyone
The GT-R is not perfect, however: the
got exited about the idea of taking a $4099
Gabe and I were talking about the GT250R beginner-friendly slow-pull throttle (the
bike racing? Getting two ex-racers to see
while I was shooting photos. We were both opposite of a quick-pull) makes it wristthis kind of potential in an entry-level
breakingly difficult to reach full throttle,
in
agreement
about
the
chassis
stability:
product is a real achievement for Hyosung.
Not that 25-ish hp can push 420-ish
the LED instrument panel goes completely Bench racing aside, it’s a very user-friendly
there
is
lots
of
it,
perhaps
too
much.
Our
pounds very fast. It’s a lot like riding an
black when polarized sunglasses are used,
bike which runs well and looks great.
old GSX-R with three missing sparkplugs. opinions coincided that the steering and
turn-in
are
very
heavy,
which
is
emblematic
On the freeway, it’s tolerable, and the bike
of lots of stability-inducing trail. We
actually isn’t too bad cruising at 80 mph.
RACIng & REPAIR
concur about the engine: it’s adequate and
Last Century’s Tire Change Prices
With enough downshifts and some rider
SInCE 1994
manages highway speeds. The dual-frontchutzpah, you can pass cars at freeway
speeds, and the wind protection and decent disc brakes fell into the same category:
4 days of AHRMA & AFM Racing at Sonoma Raceway!
seat—coupled with observed fuel economy surprisingly good for this category, albeit a
bit noisy, which will probably go away when
around 60 mpg (Hyosung claims 78
the disc surface breaks in.
mpg)—will let you ride all day. For sport
rides, the low motor output is perfect for
Our like-mindedness extended to
student sportbikers—you learn to work
high praise for the appearance: it’s a
the five-speed gearbox, how to conserve
handsome bike. Our solidarity included
corner speed and to really ride, rather than ergonomics—it feels a lot bigger than
Werkstatt Motorcycles
just point-and-shooting like your big-bike
what is usually offered in the 250 class.
Meet our sponsored riders,
mounted friends. Sure, they may leave you My sole dissenting observation is that the
check out their race bikes,
behind—far, far behind—in the straights, rear shock is severely under-damped, but I
plus FREE BBQ, Beer & RaffIe!
but you can take solace in the fact that your weigh just under two Gabes.
bike is actually teaching you something.
In short, we were almost completely in
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am - 6 pm
With a limited two-year warranty (the
415-552-8115 | werkstattsf.com
harmony that this is an outstanding bike
second year is parts only), the GT250R
3248 17th Street San Francisco, CA 94110
for some beginning riders (because it’s
First Ride: 2014 Star Bolt
By Gabe Ets-Hokin, Photos by Brian J.
Nelson and Tom Riles
E
very motorcycle begins with a
goal. The goal of the 2014 Star Bolt
was to create a product that would
appeal to a new generation of cruiser riders.
Younger buyers are less affluent than their
Baby-boom forbearers, but they’re also
looking for a simpler, more stripped-down
aesthetic. Hipsters, for instance (and I’m
not saying Bolt buyers will be hipsters, but
of modification you can imagine, from
bobber to flat-tracker to cafe-racer and
every possible interpretation in between.
Sadly, a retro big-bore air-cooled parallel
Twin was never in the cards (I asked
Project Leader Ooki Miyakozawa about
that, and he just
looked at me
blankly). Instead,
the design team
started with the
Star 950 V-Star’s
four-valve, dohc,
942cc (58 cubic
inch) air-cooled
60-degree
V-Twin. The
bore and stroke
numbers
are slightly
oversquare
at 85mm
X 83mm,
and it has
I’m Just Sayin’) “fetishize authenticity,”
other
hi-perf
touches,
like
forged
according to Time Out New York writer
aluminum
pistons
and
ceramic
Christian Lorentzen. That means younger
buyers want a more authentic experience— cylinder liners. “We do
what we can to improve
or at least look like they’re riding the real
performance,”
deal, something they found and rebuilt
explained to
themselves—even if they can’t afford a
Yamaha testing
chrome-dripping $30,000 custom sled.
division guru Mike
These new buyers are anti-establishment
Ulrich. That said,
and want to ride something that’s simple,
there’s but one
stripped-down—but unique. “They don’t
throttle body,
want to follow fad or fashion—they want to although it
be their own person,” said Yamaha Product does use dual
Planner Derek Brooks. Showing us slides
35mm
charting Star motorcycle’s branding
strategies, there were lots
of XS650 photos and
references, a low-slung,
torquey, vibey and
thoroughly imperfect
motorcycle that
has lots of fans
and has been
subjected to
every kind
injectors, working with a Mikuni system
offering 3-D ignition mapping. The
catalyzed exhaust system’s headers are
forward-routed, which means the big
bazooka of a muffler doesn’t stick too far to
the rear.
Usability is the word for the motor. The
gearbox uses five straight-cut gears for easy
shifting, and it’s worked with a “light-pull”
clutch to make it attractive to new riders. A
21mm reinforced belt looks nice and sends
power quietly and efficiently to the rear
wheel. The valves adjust with screws on
the tappets, good news for budding do-ityourself mechanics—and they’ll get plenty
of practice, with 4000-mile valve-check
intervals.
The frame is all-new but familiar-looking
nonetheless. It’s a rigid tube-steel item
that solid-mounts the
motor. Suspension is
similarly simple,
but Ulrich tells
us the spring
and damping
rates have
been carefully
selected to
get both a
“high-
COME CELEBRATE
Race Party!
The rest of the bike is a mix of minimalistic
nostalgia and high-tech touches. The
fenders are steel, the solo saddle is low and
thin (just 27.2 inches off the ground to
deliver “showroom confidence,” Brooks
says) and there are no passenger pegs
(although they’re available as a kit with a
p-pad). But there is an LCD speedometer,
LED taillight and a multi-function switch
on the left switchpod to toggle through the
odometers and clock.
Okay, I’ll come right out and say it, since
everybody’s thinking it—the Bolt’s styling
is a clear shot across Harley-Davidson’s
bow, with styling clearly derivative of
the 883 Iron. From the exposed frame
backbone to the engine’s hulking look to
the clever plastic covers over the cylinder
heads to make them look like MoCo
items, Star really nailed the look...until
you get to that tank, or more specifically,
the huge seams around that pressed-steel
component.
Ooki-san looked sad when I
pointed out the seams, but
what can you do? Harley
just has a different way of
doing things. To create the
necessary spaces between
bodywork and various
components and get the tank
the right width to achieve
that narrow, purposeful look,
you’re going have a more-prominent seam,
especially if you want to keep the price
point down below $8000. I was
surprised an accessory tank isn’t
available. At least it carries a
useful 3.2 gallons of gas, and
if you ignore the seams the
bike has a very appealing,
well-proportioned and
balanced design that
certainly grabbed your
attention—that’s why
you’re reading this, no?
The Bolt promises
an authentic riding
experience—and it
delivers.
Photo by: Kevin Hipp
Friday, May 3rd
5:30-9pm
quality feel and get a low look”—the
preload-adjustable rear shocks offer just
2.8 inches of travel. The R-Spec’s reservoirequipped gold-anodized units don’t just
look better, they have different internal
damping, though the springs are the
same. The non-adjustable 41mm KYB fork
locates a 19-inch aluminum wheel slowed
by a 298mm wave-style disc/two-piston
sliding-pin caliper. The 16-inch rear wheel
gets the same disc and a one-pot caliper.
Tires are Bridgestone Excedras, a 100/9019 and 150/80-16.
Have a Seat
Gabe Ets-Hokin, photos provided by
manufacturers
Dress it up: Apehangers
and leather saddlebags
are in the Star
accessory catalog.
There’s just enough lub-a-dub vibration,
but the motor isn’t too buzzy until you’re
breaking the law. The exhaust note is
loud enough to hear at freeway speeds,
and it’s got just the right roar. The rigid
frame, 19-inch front wheel and shortish 61.8-inch wheelbase offer up a mix
of predictable steering and high-speed
stability not unlike a nicely set-up
vintage ride.
It’s engaging in a way other metric
cruisers can’t manage, but it’s still easy
and comfortable to ride. It’s no beginnerfriendly lightweight at 540 pounds, but
that’s 33 pounds lighter than an 883 and
73 pounds less than the V Star 950 from
whence the motor came. And the weight
is low in the frame, so you mix that with
the good steering lock, narrow bars and
low seat, and around-town confidence is
great. The brakes, simple as the specs are,
work very well, and the front fork offers
similar utility. The rear shocks bottom
out on extreme bumps, but the damping
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soothes the experience enough to make
it less miserable than it could be, and the
R-Spec dampers make it noticeably better
still. And the buttery-soft clutch works
well with the slick-shifting gearbox—a
gearbox that is somehow engineered with
just enough throw and resistance to feel
like a vintage machine.
On the open road, the Bolt’s capabilities
are limited—but it’s still pleasant to ride.
The seating position is pure Sportster,
with the high flat-track bar and midmounted pegs that put the rider into a
weird, hunched-over crouch. I started to
feel (and probably look) like Quasimodo
after a while, but a couple hours in the
saddle won’t ruin your day. The buzzing
and windblast over 80 mph might, so
keeping it in that sweet spot around 75 is
heartily recommended, even if the bike
will break into triple digits just smoothly
rolling on the throttle in fifth gear.
Some other niggles I noticed: even on a
70-degree day in breezy San Diego, the
shielded header was still uncomfortably
hot on my right calf, and I felt some
FI stumbles at low RPM. Some of the
plastic bits and exposed wiring look
schlocky, and the big Electrolux of an
exhaust can won’t be hanging in the
Museum of Industrial Art any time
soon. The digital speedometer, while
almost invisible in direct sunlight
thanks to its cool tinted glass cover,
at least seemed pretty accurate. Long
paragraph, I know, but that’s a short list
for a bike in this price range.
Who’s going to buy the Bolt? Nobody
who wants a Sportster, probably. But at
$7990 ($9 less than the aforementioned
883 Iron), or $8290 for the R-Spec
(which includes blacked-out mirrors
and color-matched stitching on the
saddle), the Bolt is a great platform for
customizing (the accessories we saw
were pretty unique for a Japanese factory,
including some stylish ape-hanger bars
and brass—yes, brass!—headlight
bezels) or riders who want something
that while not exactly authentically cool,
is arguably a cool-looking and inarguably
a fun-to-ride motorcycle that gets pretty
close to the bare, minimalist ethos the
targeted buyers want.
Two ways to
bolt on comfort
You can group the problems with
motorcycle seats into two categories. The
first is the foam. It’s usually too soft, too
thin, too hard or a paradoxical combination
of all three. The other problem
is shape. The seats are often
shaped by designers, who are
more concerned with keeping
the bike’s flowing lines intact
than a rider’s rump comfy. As
a result, the seats slope their
riders down into the tank
(which reminds me of a joke
I read in CityBike many years
ago—how is a bad motorcycle
seat like a cheap hotel? No
ballroom! Bah-rump-pump!),
lock them into one position, or
what to expect:
put too much pressure on any
given point. Any one of those can be worse perfect, easy
fit (the latch is
than hard or thin foam.
pre-installed
So what to do? Luckily, there are suppliers and it fit to
of aftermarket seats, simple, drop-in
the bike) firm,
solutions that can not only save your ass,
supportive foam
har, har, but can add a dash of style and
that feels hard
even extra comfort features. I had a chance at first and then
to test two of the best-known names on my gently molds
2010 Triumph Street Triple R, which isn’t
to your tush.
equipped with the worst seat, but like most There are no
moto-mounts, is only good for an hour or
hot spots, no sharp feeling along your
two before the butt-hurt creeps in. Let’s see thigh, and though the initial comfort
how much better the aftermarket can do.
level is somewhat less than a stock saddle,
after an hour it’s exactly as comfortable
Corbin
as when you first got on—and it doesn’t
Corbin has been a well-known name in
change much from there. And since the
aftermarket saddles since AMA Hall-of- foam doesn’t break down, you’re likely
Famer Mike Corbin started making them to have the seat until the vinyl or leather
full time in 1968. Corbin’s career has
rips with little degradation in comfort.
been controversial—recall the Sparrow
Another advantage of the Corbin design
electric three-wheeler of the late ‘90s—
is its broad, supportive design, made
but his brilliance isn’t: Corbin and his
possible by the stiff, heavy Fibertech seat
company hold more than 70 patents,
pan. It does add weight to the bike (as well
including three for the “Comfort Cell”
as a touch of seat height, which can be
foam used in the seats.
customized for us shorties), but it fits as
You can get a Corbin seat two ways.
nicely (nicer, says the company) as stock
The easiest is to just get on the phone
and makes the seat wider, longer and cups
(800/538-7035) or internet (corbin.com)
your buns nicely.
and order a ready-made or custom seat.
I’m very happy with the seat and know I
The company makes seats for hundreds of
sport, standard, cruiser, touring, dual-sport could ride for many, many miles before
needing a break. However, I’m not a fan
and other machines, and you can specify
different colors and types of vinyl, leather,
stitching, welting, covers and accessories
like removable backrests (for rider and
passenger) or clever built-in storage
compartments.
of the tuck-nroll stitching
that makes
my formerly
thuggy-looking
streetfighter
look like a
refugee from
Sturgis—or
Great Grandma
Minnie’s dinette
set. Corbin says
the stitching is necessary because of the
seat’s broad shape—the cover will bunch
up and look funny otherwise. The seat can’t
be equipped with a backrest—not enough
meat on its bones—but does support the
Triumph accessory solo cover.
Sargent offers a lightweight basepan made
with its “CarbonTec” plastic/polymer
alloy. It’s remarkably light—much lighter
than the Corbin, and isn’t as flexible or
cheap feeling as the stock Triumph pan. It’s
also ready for the solo cowl, and you can
specify custom trim colors
and cover materials. Also of
interest—Sargent’s “Fine
Wire” heated seat upgrade
($200 for both seats, $150 for
just the rider, also available as
a do-it-yourself kit for $180),
a one-millimeter-thick pad
that sits under the cover and
roasts your buns up to 125
degrees, if you need that.
The seat I received for my
Street Triple ($410, $610
with heat, additional for
custom welts, fabrics, etc.)
was beautifully finished and as light as
I expected, even with the heating pad
pre-installed. It went in and fit as easily as
the Corbin. The seating position isn’t as
spacious, but it’s better than other Sargent’s
seats I’ve owned (and also customizable).
The “Atomic Foam” is dense, yet
comfortable, similar to Corbin’s product,
although it doesn’t seem to take as many
miles to break in. It also sits a half inch
lower than stock, where the Corbin adds a
little height.
The heated seat is a fine thing. It wires into
the battery with an included harness (with
a switched wire to prevent killing your
battery when the ignition is off) and draws
just two amps. The 10-position controller
At $419, including leather seating panels,
unit can be mounted anywhere on the bike
the Corbin seat is a good value—especially (I put mine on my left switchpod), uses an
considering everything but the covering is easy-to-use pair of up and down buttons
warranted for the original owner for life.
that are easily worked with gloved hands,
The rumble-seat style cover is irritating, but and remembers the heat setting when you
only visually—you can’t see it when you’re switch it off. The pad heats up quickly and
riding, and we all know that’s what matters. is one of those “why didn’t I have this 10
years ago” kinds of things.
Sargent
Corbin’s just a young pup compared to
Sargent’s 80-year history. Started in 1935 as
an auto upholsterer, the Florida company
has been re-covering motorcycle seats since
the early 1990s. In 1996, the company spun
off as a separate entity offering the World
Sport Performance Seat.
The other way to get a Corbin is to...go to
Corbin. The 82,000 square-foot factory,
nestled among the artichoke fields of
Hollister, offers a comfortable hang-out
area where you can sit and read back issues
of CityBike while you wait for your seat to
be made from your exact measurements. A
technician even looks at you on your bike,
and then brings the pan and foam back out
several times until you’re happy with the fit
and feel. After that, they cover and stitch
the seat.
I opted for the ready-made one. I’ve
had Corbin saddles before, so I knew
You can check out the over 80 models of
motorcycles Sargent’s makes ready-made
seats for (many more cruiser models are
served by Sargent’s Mustang division) or
check out the custom seat program if your
ride is too old or weird at sargentcycle.com.
You can also call 800/749-7328.
One More Chance...
dr. gregory w. FRAZIER
T
he bragging rights were being
claimed by a group of five
foreign riders who cybershouted they were the first to ride big
motorcycles into Burma in December of
2012. Their claim piqued my interest.
Burma, also known as Myanmar, had
long been a difficult country to enter on
paved roads by motorcycle. Difficult,
but not impossible. For those wanting
to check Burma off their ultimate
motorcycling adventure riding bucket
list, a day pass allowed riders, on any
displacement motorcycle, to exit
Thailand at Mae Sai and enter Burma at
Tachileik, and then ride around the area
for a few kilometers. Another option
was to enter Burma riding off-pavement
into the Shan State from Thailand north
of Mae Hong Son, an option a Chiang
Mai based adventurist had done on
several occasions in 2011 and 2012.
When I heard that barriers to entry
had been cracked by the group of
five claiming to be the first my initial
thought was to wonder how much
it had cost to be the first;
specifically, what kind of
money had been palmed by
various government officials
to grease the entry? As a number of
around $1500 per person surfaced, a
second group from Malaysia entered.
Their smallest motorcycle was 650cc,
and their entry fee was about $1600 per
person and motorcycle. Both groups
posted their tales on rideasia.net with
photos and links. It seemed the door
had been opened, the key being the U.S.
dollar entry fee.
The particulars of the trips began to
filter out and generally seemed to
follow a similar trail. Permits had to be
obtained well in advance
with a flight plan, or route
and schedule, filed and
approved. Government
guides were required
and included in the entry
fee, as were hotel costs
in government-approved
hotels. While a third group
entered and followed pretty
much the earlier routes and
programs, what became
clear was the government of
Burma had found a way to
enter into the guided-tour
business. Put another way,
the communist government
had taken a hint from the
capitalistic tour operator’s
world: offer packaged and guided tours
and foreigners with money would
pay. Neighboring China had long
used a similar tactic to satisfy foreign
motorcyclist’s demands to drive their
own motorcycles into and through
limited parts of that country.
I was the first to ride a small motorcycle
on one of their tours.
I started to ask my circle of global
motorhead acquaintances as to what
The luster of riding motorcycles over
exactly fell within the definition of a big
the borders into Burma wore off for
motorcycle? Generally, all agreed the
serious adventurists as they learned
monster motorcycles in the 1000cc—
the guided tours were not quite the
2000cc displacement range were big.
free-roaming self-guided journeys for
650cc models were also big, as were
which they lusted. For the same amount 400cc, and even down to 250. Once
of money a tourist on foot could visit
we got into the 150cc–200cc range the
definition became a bit grayer.
At the end of my research
it was concluded that like
beauty being in the eye of the
beholder, a big motorcycle
was defined by no weight,
horsepower, length, height or
engine displacement factors,
but merely a nebulous set of
self-applied criteria.
I went to the original ping
on the global adventureriding forum and revisited
the bragging rights about big
motorcycle riding in Burma.
The claim had gotten quite a
bit of media play, but was not
more of Burma, and roam pretty freely quite on point. A suggested alternative
using airplanes, buses, mini-vans
was, “we were the first to ride big-wallet
and local transport. If one wanted to
motorcycles into Burma.” But even
book a motorcycle tour inside Burma,
that header was dashed after seeing
that option was also available, albeit
that a group of big-wallet motorcycles
expensive and limited in geographic
from Malaysia had entered Burma
area.
at Tachileik some years before. One
Off to the side was the question of what adventurist suggested adding “on a
constituted a “big motorcycle.” The first guided tour” but that too was tossed as
group tour had an 800cc BMW as their vaguely over the line as an adventure.
smallest motorcycle. The second group’s In the end all I could conclude was
smallest was a 650cc Kawasaki Versys. somewhere inside Burma the cash
register was ringing up U.S. dollars as
I was researching the history of
foreigners were booking governmentmotorcycling in Thailand while these
hatched organized motorcycle tours.
big motorcycle tours were taking
The newly announced Hilton, to
place. Thailand is where 99.99 percent
be built in Yangon, may even have
of all motorcycles (and there are
covered motorcycle-tour parking when
literally millions of them) are 125 cc
completed.
displacement or smaller. When I was
using my Kawasaki KMX200, the local
Thais classified it as a big motorcycle,
often asking how big it was. In 2006,
when I wandered around inside Burma
on a Honda XR250, the locals viewed it
as a “big” motorcycle.
Clearly Burma was on the move. The
next race will be to see if Kentucky
Fried Chicken or McDonalds opens
first in Burma. Maybe I could be the
first motorcyclist to fill my order riding
my foreign-registered Kawasaki ZX-130
through the Drive Thru? But $1600
I looked back on some of my earlier
seems a bit steep for a Big Mac and
adventures, like riding two-up from
bragging rights when I know I paid far
Indianapolis to Minneapolis on a
less than that for one small motorcycle.
Honda 305 Superhawk. At the time
Dr. Frazier’s latest book, Motorcycle
I thought that it was a pretty big
Adventurer, has been described as “the
motorcycle, maybe because it could
true story of the world’s longest, most
out run any of the 1200cc Harleydifficult and most perilous motorcycle
Davidsons, Indians and even a few
journey ever attempted,” and “should
larger-displacement British oil drippers. be a must read for every red-blooded
motorcyclist.” It is about the first
An inquiry was made to see if Burma
motorcycle ride around the world in
would offer a discount for their
1912-1913. Watch for news about the
guided tours if the rider used a small
2013 ‘round the world ride retracing
motorcycle. The answer came back;
the original route to celebrate the
“Same price for tour.” There went my
incredible achievement by Carl Stearns
Clancy, The Clancy Centerary Ride, at
personal plan to claim global bragging
horizonsunlimited.com.
rights if I used my Thai-market
Kawasaki ZX-130 step-through to claim
maynard
depended on your own resourcefulness
and abilities...and perhaps those of
your riding friends. If, that is, they
knew anything at all about your
particular bike.
YouTube videos and online manuals or
DVDs to guide them, they have genuinely
knowledgeable coaching and support via
email at every turn of a wrench. Really,
there’s nothing to fear.
My first bike was a 250 Honda
Twin. Those Hondas used electromagnets
in their alternators. If your battery was flat,
you could inflict long, swinging kicks on
the kickstarter until hell froze over. You
could push the bike at 50 mph. The engine
would not fire, let alone start.
In those primitive days when I owned the
Endurance, I had tools and a place to work.
But I was afraid to try to replace such an
essential and precise part as a piston. Fear
of getting in over my head, beyond my
abilities, paralyzed me.
HERSHON
I
wrote last month about my cost-noobject fantasy bike. It occurred to
me that if instead of choosing one
dream bike, I listed my Top Ten objects of
motor lust, more than half would be bikes
I owned in the past. Either I had great taste
or I’m stuck in some decades-long rut.
I thought about my ex-bikes and why
I’d moved past them. Mostly I wanted
something new and different. But several
times I sold or traded them away because
I felt I could not fix them. I felt the repair
they needed was beyond me. Often, if I’m
honest, it was not.
I hadn’t ever done the fix, true. I didn’t
know how to do it, not really. And I was
afraid to make some mistake I couldn’t
undo. Maybe you’ve had the same feeling.
For most of the 100-plus years of
motorcycling, if you preferred doing your
own mechanical tasks, you were on your
own, especially if your bike was made by
one of the smaller manufacturers. Finding
how-to information was difficult or
impossible.
There was nearly no literature either
accompanying the bike or available from
independent sources. Factory repair
manuals did not encourage you to dig into
your bike’s innards. Those books assumed
a familiarity with tools and terminology
that I lacked.
I could adjust chains and valve clearances
and clutch-cable freeplay. I could change
oil. But I balked at removing engine or
transmission covers...or dealing with
electrical problems, especially timing a
British engine’s ignition, done the same
way in 1965 that it was in 1905.
If your dealer had sold your bike, make
and model, in sufficient numbers, he
or his mechanic knew how to do basic
maintenance. But he was not going to
come to your house and watch over your
shoulder while you did the maintenance
or made some repair.
Before aftermarket shop
manuals
and
certainly
before
the
Internet,
you
Many of those Hondas were dismantled
uselessly by clueless owners, guys like me,
when nothing mechanical was wrong. The
bike needed a battery charge. Who knew?
My second bike was British, a Velocette
Venom Endurance. The Endurance was a
500cc overhead valve single, an early-’60s
adventure bike, you could say. I’d love to
have it back today.
In ‘63 I traded it and some money for a
different Velocette. Why? Because the
Endurance used oil. The cylinder bore
wasn’t round. It’d never been round, even
factory fresh. Oil easily found its way past
the rings, into the combustion chamber
and out the fishtail silencer—as smoke.
I didn’t dream I could fix it myself. Today,
a Velocette owner is effortlessly in touch
with one or several owners clubs, perhaps
one in each English-speaking country.
Today’s lucky owner is able to buy gaskets
and oversize piston and ring sets through
the clubs. He or she can watch videos
showing how to take apart and reassemble
the top end of the (simple) Velocette
engine.
Both my G80 Matchless motocross bike
and my B50MX BSA would start hot but
not cold. Again, today there’s no problem.
And no pushing. Online help is a keystroke
away.
If I have a problem with my present bike,
a Kawasaki ZRX1200, no matter how
mystifying, I can post a question to the
owners club forum. Within minutes not
one but several fellow owners will respond
to my question or post links to previous
similar questions and their answers. It’s a
So I traded off a perfectly wonderful bike—
comfort, and it’s free!
afraid even to start what amounted to a few
days’ work.
I’m thankful for a bike that asks very little
of me, and for readily available information
A decade later I bought a Moto Guzzi
about how to provide it with what it does
750. Part of the clutch turned to powder
need. As I mentioned, I had tools and
between the engine and transmission. I
places to work on my bikes in the old days. I
got it apart but faltered, never replaced
didn’t have the support and clear directions
the part. Never reassembled the engine/
we now take for granted to encourage me,
transmission. I sold the bike in boxes to a
to enable me, to give it a go.
Guzzi dealer. I’d kill to have it back.
I wonder where my old Velo Endurance
In the ‘70s and ‘80s I owned a few bikes
is today? Come back, sweet motorcycle!
that frustrated me in significant ways.
Come back! Give me another chance...
My ‘70 Sportster CH, the magneto-fired,
CityBike’s technical fact-checking bureau read
kickstart model, refused to light off when
this column and has been rocking back-and-forth
it was cold. Made me crazy. I’m sure
while weeping softly under its desk ever since, so the
that today owners of old Sportsters can
statements in the article have not been vetted for
make their bikes start easily, thanks to
accuracy. Send corrections to
the Internet, savvy dealers and [email protected].
Century aftermarket electronics.
A Velo owner can ask his online friends
where to send his cylinder for a rebore—
by someone who has bored a Velocette
cylinder before. Today, an owner almost
anywhere in the world could remove an
entire engine and ship it to a specialist in
the U.K. he’s only read about. Imagine.
In the old days of drum brakes, many
drums would oval-ize from heat warping
or spoke tension. Today you can ship
complete wheels to specialists who
advertise online. They skim the drums
round in a large lathe. Back
then...you could curse the
pulsing in your brake lever
or pedal. And learn to
live with it.
Not only do
today’s old bike
owners (and
new bike
owners)
have
to get CityBike
delivered to your door
by the meanest, most
psychotic, well-armed
branch the Government
has to beat you with.
That’s right! we’ll send the man
to your mail hole once a month
for an entire year delivering the
latest issue of CityBike.
The airplane they sent was a quartermillion-dollar turbocharged Mooney
owned by two D4 members. It is the most
expensive privately-owned vehicle I’ve
ever ridden in other than my Ford box van
(which has exceeded its purchase price in
repairs over its lifetime).
Our pilots, Fred and Roy, flew a
straight and level flight up to Bradford,
Pennsylvania, with a single vertical “bet
you can’t do this” turn so I could get a
photo of the old Piper aircraft plant at
Lock Haven. Roy told me later that he had
logged some aerobatic Pitts time; I said I
already figured as much because I noticed
he had only lost a needles width of altitude
wandering the tables looking down low-cut
dresses and not listening to him anyway.
Another roaster came to the mike
and claimed I’d asked him to kick my
motorcycle to life at their Speedsville
National and remembered that my engine
had so little compression he had to wait for
it to stop spinning before he could kick it
again.
When “Old Bill”
Strickland drifted
past I couldn’t help
but wonder just
how old he was
because they were
calling him “old
Bill” 22 years ago.
He says he’s 72 but
must have looked
really bad when he
was 50 because he
hasn’t changed a
bit. Bill tried to pull
my chain by telling
the crowd he once
finished the Jack
Pine before I made
the gas stop.
during that turn.
The banquet turned into a Hertfelder roast
after Ludden introduced me as the only
enduro rider he knew who had got passed
by a sweep crew before the first checkpoint.
To be honest this actually happened, but
The airplane was the D4 troop’s way of
getting back at me after I claimed they only I still think it was a setup—that one-man
sweep crew on the Suzuki 500 Triple was
had one subscription to Dirt Rider, which
running so fast it looked to me like he
they chained to the bar at The Castle so
had a definite promise for a matinee if he
everyone could read it.
got home before the kids finished Sunday
My very good friend Bernice wasn’t
school.
too thrilled about flying in the smallest
airplane she’d ever seen until I mentioned The next fellow at the microphone told of
passing me on a New England rock gardenit held twice as many people as the Piper
type trail where I was turned sideways on
Cubs J-3s I used to stumble around in.
top of a high flat rock with both wheels
She brightened up considerably when the
off the ground and begging for help to get
Mooney dropped in right behind, of all
the motorcycle off the thing. I asked this
things, an actual J-3 that had obviously
speaker to change the word “begging” to
been painted with a sandy broom. It
“desperately requesting” and pointed out
taxied in to the pump island looking like
that most of the guys in the audience were
a genuine airplane following a Wright
Brothers replica.
Reliable, timely service at
reasonable rates on all
makes of motorcycles
Order a front set of
Galfer Wave Rotors
for your bike, we’ll
GIVE you the matched
rear for FREE.
When it was time to head back to New
Jersey a turbulent cold front drifted down
from Canada and turned all the light planes
into saunas.
Sale ends 4/30/13
GalferBrakes.net
ADVERTISING
it works!
Contact CityBike to place a
classified or business
advertisement and reach
thousands of Bay Area
motorcycle enthusiasts.
[email protected]
415-282-2790
For a copy of Ed’s latest book, 80.4 Finish
Check, send $29.95 with suggested inscription
to Ed Hertfelder, PO Box 17564, Tucson, AZ
85731. Also available on Amazon.com!
Award-Winning Customs
Full Service Department
Paint • Parts
Fabrication
Insurance Work
All Makes Welcome
56 Hamilton Drive #A • Novato, CA 94949
415.382.6662 • CustomDesignStudios.com
We fix anything on
American V-Twin bikes
The very thoughtful D4 guys rented us a
nice Chevy two-door and it took only eight
hours to drive to the little grass airport
where we had left our van. Another hour
and a half to get the rental to drop-off,
plus two hours of rest before some feeling
returned to my butt.
You might say that I had hit the big time,
but it was merely a glancing blow that only
cracked one tail light lens.
Serving the
Bay Area’s
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since 1988
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In Business Since 1978
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ENGINE DYNAMICS, LLC
Phone 707-763-7519
Fax 707-763-3759
www.enginedynamics.com
• Flow Bench Testing • Competition Valve Jobs •
District 4 ramrod Dave Ludden
remembered that weekend blizzard well
because they were betting six to five that
I’d never make it to the mountains and
even money that I’d never make it past the
mountains.
ROTORS
[email protected]
It looked like I’d hit the big time when
the dirt riders in Pennsylvania’s District
4 promised to fly me up in a private plane
to tell a few lies at their enduro awards
banquet.. The last
time I did this gig
the drive home to
New Jersey was
over fresh snow
in the mountains
that required
superhuman
concentration to
stay off the brakes
while waiting
for the front
wheels to steer
the car away from
immovable objects.
I discovered that
forcing an overdose
of adrenaline to
do nothing is like
telling yourself that
the tiger chasing you is defanged, declawed,
well fed and only wants his belly scratched.
The Big Time...Almost
Marketplace FREE GALFER
• Porting • Polishing •
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HERTFELDER
2040 Petaluma Blvd. N.Petaluma, CA 94952
Auto, Motorcycle, Marine
32 years of experience
2-Year Warranty on labor
Featured in American Hotrodder,
High Performance Mopar, and more
4074 Fabian Way #3 • Palo Alto, Ca 94303
Phone: 650-433-0051
Mobile: 650-575-3930
www.haroldsupholstery.com
M–F 9:00am–5:00pm
Estimates on Saturdays by appointment
DEALERS
CLASSIFIEDS
CLUBS
Homoto is a queer and queer-friendly motorcycle club based
in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our rides are sport-focused with
an emphasis on safety and camaraderie.
For more info: http://www .homoto .us
sanfrancisco@homoto .us
sanjose@homoto .us
Antique Motorcycle
Club of America
Yerba Buena Chapter of the
Antique Motorcycle Club of America
Motorcycle Enthusiasts dedicated to the preservation,
restoration, and operation of antique motorcycles.
To join or view more information about our club, visit us at
www .yerbabuenaamca .org
The Northern California Norton Owners’ Club (NCNOC) is
dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of the Norton
motorcycle. Membership is open to all British Motorcycle
enthusiasts and is currently $25 per year, you can join
online. Our monthly rides, meetings and tech session and
events are open to all members and guests see our web site
calendar at www .nortonclub .com .
Now celebrating our 40th year!
Bay Area Moto Group
Ride with other local sport bike riders in the Bay Area.
• Mostly sport bikes
• Routes go to ALL parts of the bay area and focus on the
“twisty’s”
• We set a quick pace and newbies may get left behind ;)
• Group riding experience is highly recommended, as is
proper riding gear
• We also do track days, drag races, motorcycle camping,
and attend motorcycle racing events
http://www .meetup .com/BayAreaMotoGroup/
OMC
The Oakland Motorcycle Club is the fourth-oldest club in
the nation and celebrated 100 years of continuous operation
in 2007. The OMC is dedicated to supporting the sport
of motorcycle riding. We are a diverse group of male and
female riders with a wide variety of motorcycles, including
street, dirt, and dualsport bikes. We sponsor and organize
the following annual events to which all riders are invited:
Sheetiron 300 Dualsport, held in May; Three Bridge Poker
Run, held in July; Jackhammer Enduro, held in October.
Regular club meetings are held every Wednesday at 8:00
p.m. Guests are welcome. 742 – 45th Avenue, Oakland.
(510) 534-6222. www .oaklandmc .org .
Bay Area Sidecar
Enthusiasts (BASE)
•Whatdoesyourdogthinkaboutmotorcycling?(A:
Hard to tell without a sidecar!)
•Everdrivenintrafficwithafakemachine-gun
mountedtoyourrig?
•Wanttoknowhowto“flythechair”?
•Maybejustwanttofindoutwhatit’sliketobea
“sidecarmonkey”foradaybycatchingaridewithus?
We are a facebook-based group in the SF Bay Area filled
with sidecars and the people who love them, and we’d be
happy to meet you.
Email pej12378@yahoo .com for more information.
BSA Owners Club
The BSA Owners’ Club of Northern California was formed to
promote the preservation and enjoyment of the motorcycles
produced by the Birmingham Small Arms Company in
England. Founded in 1985, the Club now has over 500
members, and has produced the monthly newsletter, The
Bulletin, since the Club’s inception. Rides and activities are
scheduled each month in addition to two major activities:
The Clubman’s All British Weekend in the spring, and the
Northern California All British Ride in the fall. Membership
is open to all BSA enthusiasts.
For more information: www .bsaocnc .org
Port Stockton MC
COME RIDE WITH US!
-We are a friend and family oriented historical club of
-Any make, model or style of bike is welcome.
-All are invited to join us on our rides, visit our weekly
meetings or become a new member.
For more information: E-mail us at
portstocktonmc@webtv .net,
or visit our website at portstocktonmc .com
San Francisco
Motorcycle Club
San Francisco Motorcycle Club, Inc., established 1904, is
the second oldest motorcycle club in the country!
Our business meetings are Thursday nights at 8:30pm, and
guests are always welcome. Our clubhouse is filled with
motorcycling history from the last century, a pool table,
foosball and pinball games, and people who currently
enjoy motorcycles, dirt riding, racing, touring, riding and
wrenching. Check our website for events such as club rides,
socials and events, and come visit us, no matter what bike
you ride!
San Francisco Motorcycle Clubhouse is located at
2194 Folsom St, @ 18th St in San Francisco.
www .sf-mc .org
415-863-1930
Classic Japanese
Motorcycle Club
The Classic Japanese Motorcycle Club is dedicated to the
celebration and preservation of the Classic and Vintage
Japanese motorcycle. We have rides, meets, shows, swaps and
can help you find and sell parts, bikes and motorcycle-related
services. Members make the club function!
www .CJMC .org .
Exciting women-only motorcycle group in the SF Bay Area.
For more info visit www .curveunit .com
The Ducati Vintage
Club
The Ducati Vintage Club was founded to assist vintage
Ducati MC (1987 and older) owners with information and
resources to preserve, resurrect and bring these MC’s back to
the road! Owners and enthusiasts are welcome to join. We meet
once monthly at the Ducati Bike Night event and we sponsor
the annual European Motorcycle Show and Swap held in March
at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, the La Ducati Day
Concorso held in LaHonda each October and more.
Visit us at www .ducativintageclub .com
The San Jose Dons Motorcycle Club exists to Advocate
motorcycling, promote good will between motorcyclists
and the public, promote rider safety and protect the rights
of riders. Put more simply, the Dons are a group of people
who love riding motorcycles and come together to enjoy
motorcycling, and each other’s company. All bikes are
welcome!
The San Jose Dons Motorcycle Club was formed in 1932,
with the clubs colors of green and gold. The Dons are
associated with the American Motorcycle Association
(AMA).
Club Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday
of each month, beginning at 7:30 PM. The last Wednesday
of each month is reserved for “Putt Night” when a club
member leads the group on a short destination run to a
restaurant, or other point of interest. Come check us out.
sanjosedons .com
J&M Motorsports
1931 Old Middlefield Way
#201
Mountain View
www .jm-ms .com
650-386-1440
Good-used-motorcycle/Fair-price specialists—Sportbikes,
Cruisers, & Dirt Bikes
We are a licensed operation run by two brothers who love
motorcycles and specialize in newer, low-mile, affordable
bikes that are worth owning. We have in-house financing
and a wide variety of bikes all in one place.
Looking for your first bike? Your 10th? Come by and see
why people like us: Easy to deal with and we really enjoy our
work. J&M is not a giant dealership. When you call or visit,
you’re talking directly with the owner.
Come by and take a look! Open Tues-Sat - Closed Sunday
We buy (nice) used bikes. Trade-ins and consignments are
almost always welcome.
$11,495 2011 BMW F800ST 5,926 Miles
$5,995 2002 BMW R1150R 12,494 Miles
$13,795 2011 BMW S1000RR 842 Miles
$3,995 2008 Buell Blast500 2,885 Miles
$9,995 2010 Ducati Hypermotard 2,445 Miles
$7,995 2007 Ducati Monster S4R 4,015 Miles
$13,495 2005 Harley-Davidson FLHRCI Roadking
Classic 6,881 Miles
$19,795 2007 Harley-Davidson Special Construction
HD 12,835 Miles
$6,495 2005 Honda CBR1000RR5,460 Miles
$9,495 2011 Honda CBR600RR 722 Miles
$7,995 2008 Honda CBR600RR 6,321 Miles
$2,295 2005 Honda CRF250
$2,995 2007 Honda CRF250
$2,595 1970 Honda Dax ST 70 930 Miles
$7,795 2010 Honda NT 700 1,257 Miles
$3,995 2007 Honda VT750 Shadow Spirit 10,934 Miles
$5,495 2005 Honda VTX1300S Shadow 10,335 Miles
$5,995 2009 Kawasaki ER-6N 5,009 Miles
$3,995 2009KawasakiEX250RNinja 1,254 Miles
$3,995 2009KawasakiEX250RNinja 2,918 Miles
$3,995 2010KawasakiEx250RNinja 1,176 Miles
$1,995 2008 Kawasaki KLX140L Low Hours
$795 2003 Kawasaki KX60
$7,295 2011 Kawasaki Vulcan VN900 Custom 1,242
Miles
$5,995 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan VN900LT 1,992 Miles
$7,995 2008 Kawasaki ZX14 10,834 Miles
$8,995 2009KawasakiZX14RNinja 1,443 Miles
$5,4952005KawasakiZX636Ninja 17,166 Miles
$5,295 2008 Suzuki DRZ400SM 2,615 Miles
$6,995 2008 Suzuki GSRX600 6,375 Miles
$8,495 2009 Suzuki GSXR600 1,059 Miles
$2,495 2005 Suzuki GZ250 13,775 Miles
$2,995 2008 Suzuki GZ250 1,099 Miles
$5,495 2005 Suzuki SV650S 6,271 Miles
$4,995 2005 Suzuki SV650S 8,961 Miles
$5,495 2005 Suzuki SV650S 2,754 Miles
$4,995 2007 Suzuki SV650S 11,429 Miles
$8,495 2006 Triumph Rocket III 9,913 Miles $3,995
2010 Vespa S150 537 Miles $4,995
2005 Yamaha FZ6 4,520 Miles
$5,995 2009 Yamaha FZ6R 2,325 Miles
$3,495 2000 Yamaha Vstar650 Custom XVS 650 6,198
Miles
$2,495 2007 Yamaha YZ250F
$2,995 2009 Yamaha YZ250F
$3,995 2010 Yamaha YZ450F
$5,295 2007 Yamaha YZF600R 2,061 Miles
$8,995 2009 Yamaha YZFR1 9,081 Miles
$13,995 2003 Chevrolet C2500HD Duramax 2X4
174,069 Miles
$18,995 2003 Ford F250 4X4 PowerStroke 7.3L
179,954 Miles
Mission Motorcycles
6232 Mission Street Daly City, CA 94014 (650) 992-1234
www .missionmotorcycles .com
Mission Motorcycles is a dealership for new Honda,
Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha motorcycles, ATVs, scooters and
dirt bikes and the Zero electric motorcycles. Our factory–
trained technicians can keep your machine in top-top
running condition.
We are currently looking for quality pre-owned motorcycles
and scooters. We accept trade-ins if you’re thinking of a
new ride. We also offer consignment sales for your old ride
that you might not be using anymore. Call or visit to discuss
options with one of our sales representatives.
NEW BIKE SPECIALS
2009 Honda CBR1000ABS in Red. Spectacular engine
performance with solid, confidence inspiring, handling.
Feels like a 600cc in the tight turns, yet open the throttle
and feel the acceleration of a liter class bike. MSRP was
$13,999 – NOW $10,300 !!! Stock # H2898
2013 Zero Electric Motorcycles are here!
Improvements for 2013 include a new Z-Force motor with
up to 70 ft-lbs of torque, top speed of 95 mph, range up
to 135 miles, and removable storage in the “tank” of the
S and DS mode, and Bluetooth Smartphone integration.
Select models are eligible for the $900 CA Clean Air Vehicle
Rebate and 10% Federal tax credit. Call for a Demo Ride and
mention CityBike. 650-992-1234
2011 ZERO Electric Motorcycles Factory Authorized
Clearance savings available here at Mission
Motorcycles. Get Plugged In! The MX (Motocross) model
is $3500.00 OFF!!! Plus, select ZERO Motorcycles qualify
for a $900 CA Clean Air Vehicle Rebate! Call (650) 9921234 for more information.
JUST ARRIVED: 2013 CBR500, 2013 Honda CB1100
retro-styling, 2013 Honda GoldWing F6B Deluxe, 2013
Suzuki V-Strom 650
COMING SOON: The brand new Honda CB500F, 2013
Honda NC700X standard and DCT models, 2013 Suzuki
SFV650 and 2013 Suzuki DRZ400 Super-Moto
New Honda CRF50 and CRF70 $150.00 OFF!!! Get
your kids riding with an automatic , 3-Speed, Mini Dirt Bike!
Training wheels available.
NEW 2012 SUZUKI SALE Save up to $500 on GSXR600,
GSXR750, V-Strom 1000, Boulevard M109, Boulevard
C50 and Burgman 650 Executive. Special, low financing
available.
2012 CRF150R Big Wheel ON SALE NOW!!! Excellent
motorcross bike for teens or smaller adults.
2012 Honda Gold Wing in Black! Tour the country
in style and comfort with a Gold Wing! This bike has
everything but the airbag: ABS, Navigation, XM Ready, and
Heated Grips and Seat! This bike also has Reverse and is
$1000.00 OFF!!! Stock # H2995
2012 Demo Yamaha FJR1300 in blue and on Sale!
$1500.00 OFF! What a fantastic sport touring motorcycle!
This bike is fun, handles like a dream and has great styling!
It also has heated grips, an automatically adjustable
windscreen, saddlebags and two seat height options stock!
Y2732
2011 Yamaha FZ1 $9,799 Silver. Want a comfortable
ride, but don’t want to give up sport performance and
handling? This is the ride for you. Stock # Y2683
2010 Honda Sabre $11,000 on Sale. Candy Red. All
stock with a custom look. Arrive in style everywhere you
go with this super sleek cruiser that gets all the attention!
H2935
PRE-OWNED VEHICLES
2012 Yamaha Super Tenere Blue with yellow decals,
all stock equipment and only 3,974 miles. Stock # U1209
$12,999
2010 Yamaha WR250R Dual-sport bike with fuel
injection. Comes with a Sargent seat and ProMoto rear
luggage rack. 5639 miles, $5899 Stock# U1184
2009 Yamaha YZ450F White with black & red decals,
$3599. Fresh tires, new fork seals, and ready to ride!
Stock# U1195
2009 Triumph Thruxton black with pewter stripe. 15,370
miles. Stock# U1204 $5999
2002 Honda Rebel black with 14,256 miles. Saddlebag
supports already installed, just add your bags! Stock #
U1202 $2399
Prices do not include government fees, dealer freight/
setup fees (new vehicles only), taxes, dealer document
preparation charges or any finance charges (if applicable).
Final actual sales prices will vary depending on options or
accessories selected.
Check out and compare our bikes online at www.
missionmotocycles.com!
the passion that has grown ever sense. David’s primary goal at this point
in his career is to carry the message to others regarding the joys of the
motorcycle world.
PRE-OWNED BIKES
$7995 2005 Ducati MULTISTRADA1000 S DS Red
43443mi
$3495 1996 Honda ST1100 Red 37668mi
$2795 2001 Honda VT750C Black Shadow 77306 mi
$5995 2005 Suzuki GSXR 1000 Yellow/Black 17251 mi
$9495 2005 Harley Davidson FXSTI Softail Blue 17968
mi
$5795 2000 Buell X-1Red Lightning 10645 mi
$3295 2009 Suzuki S40 (LS650) 650cc, 1cyl Black
14882 mi
$3495 2006 Suzuki S50 (VS800) Boulevard BLK 16677
mi
$6995 2012 Suzuki C50T (VL800T)Boulevard BLK/
RED 8781 mi
$2295 2004 Honda CB250 Nighthawk Black 12508 mi
$1895 1981 Yamaha XJ650 Maxim Silver 45941 mi
$3995 2007 Suzuki GSX750F Katana Black 20935 mi
$10495 2002 Harley Davidson FLHTCUI Ultra Classic
Blue 10495 mi
$4995 2003 Kawasaki VN1600 Grey 25149 mi
$3995 2002 Buell Cyclone M2L1200cc Blue 11546 mi
$11995 1997 Harley Davidson FLSTF V2, 1340cc Black/
Flame 24288 mi
$4995 2009 Harley Davidson XR-1200 Sportster Orange
28550 mi
$15995 2004 Harley Davidson FLSTCI Heritage Softail
Purple 11654 mi
COMING SOON
$2995 1996 Kawasaki VN 1500-D1 Black
$2995 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan VN750A Red/Grey
24428 mi
1999Yamaha XV650 V STAR Black
1996Triumph Trophy 900cc Green 49903 mi
$2595 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan EN500C Black 9388 mi
$2995 1984 Honda V65 Magna VF1100C Red 34888
mi
2000 Suzuki GSX-R600 Black 25153 mi
SF MOTO
275 8th Street at the corner of Folsom
San Francisco - 415 255 3132
www .sfmoto .com
We are sf moto. Located on 8th and Folsom in the SOMA
(South of Market) area of San Francisco,we serve the bay
area with new SYM scooters and recent used motorcycles.
We sell Triumph, Ducati, Yamaha, Kawasaki, BMW,Suzuki
and other brands.
Here you will find anything from Street bike to cruiser and dual
sport bikes. All our vehicles have been thoroughly gone through.
Our used motorcycles come with our own 60 day warranty.
SERVICE DEPARTMENT:
The service department is open from Tuesday throuhg
Saturday from 8:00am until 6:00pm. Direct service phone
line: 415-861-7196
SALES DEPARTMENT:
Ride On Motorcycles
707-647-RIDE (7433) Ride-On-Motorcycles .com
1416 Sonoma Blvd
Vallejo CA 94590
Steve@Ride-On-Motorcycles .com
David@Ride-On-Motorcycles .com
Welcome to Ride-On-Motorcycles!
Our friendly associates will help you find the Motorcycle you want at a
price you can afford. Our years of experience and commitment to quality
have earned us loyal customers throughout the Ride-On-Motorcycles
metro area. Women riders are always welcome and yes, we listen to what
you want.
We are an Authorized Dealer for Cleveland CycleWerks offering brand new
quality, affordable production motorcycles. The Misfit is a full suspension
“Café” styled bike that can fit 2 passengers comfortably. The Heist is a
“Bobber” styled bike that will turn heads with lots of cool features.
Our experienced buyers select only the best values from trade-ins,
overstocked inventory and private party purchases. We stand by every
motorcycle we sell. Due to our low overhead, we can pass incredible
savings along to you.
We specialize in satisfying all our customers’ needs with your powersports
purchase. From what you want and keeping within your budget, we will walk
you through the entire process. We promise a hassle-free experience! Every
motorcycle we sell gets a service and has passed a comprehensive 38 point
inspection performed by our knowledgeable staff.
One-stop shopping!
We sell and service most makes and models. Including Harley-Davidson,
Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki to mention a few.
Trades are always welcome. We’ll buy your bike or take it on
consignment.
Warranties soon to be on the menu.
Parts & Accessories in stock.
We offer financing through multiple sources to qualified applicants.
Discounted no-obligation insurance quotes available for your scooter!
Our History:
Ride-On-Motorcycles was founded by two motorcycle enthusiasts and
riding buddies, David and Steve in 2009. Both David and Steve spent time
together at Harley-Davidson of Vallejo until the Dealership sold in 2008,
the new owners let the management team go so David and Steve partnered
up to start a new shop offering a wide variety of brands in a warm friendly
family environment.
About Steve
Steve is known in the motorcycle community as “Hollywood” Steve, a
handle that was given to him over a decade ago by riding friends that would
patiently wait for him as he got ready to leave on rides. In his younger years
Steve was influenced by the movie “Easy Rider”. After seeing the flick he
purchased his first motorcycle the very next day. Steve has been an avid
rider now for more than 40 years.
Steve held many positions in every department of a leading Northern
California Harley-Davidson dealership. As Sales Manager he learned
the value of offering quality motorcycles at a fair price. As Business/
Finance Manager it was important that the financing and warranties were
of the best value. The purchase experience needs to be hassle free and a
pleasure. He knows that the success of the business is a total commitment
to satisfy every customer’s need while fulfilling their dreams to ride at
Ride-On-Motorcycles.
About David
David’s entry into the motorcycle industry was more from necessity than
pleasure. Seemed like a good career choice. David began working in
the industry in 1981 and purchased his first motorcycle to commute to
work that year. His work experience includes managerial duties in parts
and accessory, purchasing and sales of motorcycles, and servicing
motorcycles. His passion for riding grew for 20 years before finally
heightening in 2007 with Steve and David’s first road trip together, the
epic ride to Daytona Beach for Bike Week. This was the foundation for
- We buy used motorcycles and scooters. We can also help
you sell your ride with our no cost consignment program.
- Bring your bike, title (or loan statement), owners handbook
and keys.
- It’s OK if you still have a loan on your bike we can still take
care of you.
- We will provide the safest way for you to get cash for your
motorcycle or scooter. It only takes about 20 - 25 minutes.
- Sign up on our mail list to get NEW INVENTORY
NOTIFICATIONS in our weekly e mail newsletter at
www .sfmoto .com
WE HAVE THE FASTEST ROTATING SELECTION
IN SAN FRANCISCO:
Download a free QR code scanner from your app
store or google play . Then scan the following QR code
to see our current inventory including detailed specs
and images!
USED INVENTORY
- All used motorcycles at sf moto come with a 3 month
warranty.
We thoroughly go through our used inventory:
- If we find brakes to be worn over 60%, new pads are
installed
- If we find tires to be worn beyond 60%, new tires are
installed
- If chain & sprockets are worn beyond 60%, we install new
chain & sprockets.
APRILIA
Aprilia RSV 1000 Bol D’Or, 2007, 15921 miles, Orange/
Lavender - $8998
Aprilia Shiver 750, 2009, 3698 miles, Blue / Silver $7998
DUCATI
Ducati Monster 1100, 2010, 560 miles, red - $8998
Ducati Multistrada 1200, 2010, 9777 miles, white,
$17498
HONDA
99, 2006, 21961 miles, black, $4498
919, 2004, 34630 miles, Silver - $5198
919, 2002, 17425 miles, Red - $5498
919, 2007, 13309 miles, Red metallic - $5998
CBR250R, 2012, 1811 miles, Red/White/Blue - $3998
CBR600RR, 2007, 9689 miles, Blue/Silver - $7998
CBR600RR, 2004, 7103 miles, blue, $6498
CBR600RR, 2010, 6979 miles, orange / black, $10498
CBR600RR, 2008, 5753 miles, orange / black, $7998
CBR600RR, 2008, 6358 miles, flat black, $8498
VFR800 Interceptor, 2006, 15299 miles, - $5998
Shadow VLX VT600, 7713 miles, silver, $5498
Rebel 250,12227 miles, Silver, $2998
Shadow Sabre VTX1300, Silver, 8991 miles, $5498
Shadow Aero VT750, 2011, 452 miles, red, white &
blue - $6898
VTX1800, 2003, 14257 miles, red, - $4998
Silverwing, 2003, 23610 miles, red, - $3498
KAWASAKI
Concours ZG1400, 2008, 148 Miles, Silver, $9998
Ninja250,2009, 7501 miles, green, - $3998
Ninja250,2009, 1652 miles, black, - $3998
Ninja250,2012, 932 miles, red, - $3998
Ninja250,2009, 3247 miles, red, - $3998
Ninja500,2007, 8702 miles, Orange, - $3998
Ninja500,2003, 1958 miles, Blue, - $3998
Ninja500,2005, 9494 miles, black, - Call
Ninja650,2007,3986 miles, blue, - $5898
Ninja650,2011, 2547 miles, Orange, - $6898
Ninja650,2011, 4116 miles, Black, - $6798
Ninja650,2011,10873 miles, Orange, - $6498
Ninja650,2007,1619 miles, blue, - $5998
NinjaZX-6R, 2284 miles, black, - $8498
NinjaZX-10R, 1710 miles, black, - $10998
Versys 650, 204 miles, blue, - $6998
Vulcan 500, 507 miles, black, - $3998
Vulcan 900, 1648 miles, blue, - $6998
Vulcan 900, 805 miles, black, - $7998
KYMCO
People 150, 3333 miles, white, $2298
PIAGGIO
MP3 400, 2010, 6154 miles, blue, - $6498
Fly 150, 2009, 8582 miles, silver, - $1898
Fly 50, 2010, 608 miles, silver, - $1998
SUZUKI
Burgman 400, 2008, 9575 miles, red, - $4498
Burgman 400, 10158 miles, black, - $3498
DRZ-400, 2011, 1271 miles, white, - $5898
GSXR-750, 2011, 1351 miles, black, - $9898
GSXR-750, 2006, 2694 miles, blue, - $7498
GSXR-750, 2011, 1888 miles, blue, - $9698
SV650S, 2007, 11492 miles, red - $5498
SV650S, 2007, 9864 miles, red - $5498
V-Strom 650, 2009, 13332 miles, black - $6998
SYM
HD125 scooter, 2006, 5390 miles, blue - $2498
TRIUMPH
T100, 2011, 18347 miles, black - $7598
T100, 2008, 1368 miles, red/silver - $7498
Thunderbird ABS, 2011, 2992 miles, white, - $10998
YAMAHA
FZ6, 2007, 567 miles, red, - $5998
FZ6, 2009, 7984 miles, yellow - $5998
FZ6, 2012, 592 miles, white - $6898
FZ6, 2009, 6331 Miles, Yellow, $5998
YZFR6, 2010, 6450 miles, black - $8498
YZFR6, 2008, 5174 miles, blue, - $7998
YZFR6, 2008, 4339 miles, blue, - $7998
YZFR6, 2006, 3856 miles, black, - $7498
YZFR1, 2009, 26 miles, blue - $9998
FZ1, 2005, 10670 miles, blue - $5998
V-Star 250, 2012, 1721 miles, black - $3898
V-Star 250, 2009, 1787 miles, black, - $3498
V-Star 650, 2003, 2516 miles, purple, - $4298
V-Star 950, 2010, 339 miles, white, - $6998
V-Star 950, 2010, 947 miles, gold, $6998
Vino 125, 2006, 4764 miles, blue, $2198
Zuma 125, 2009, 2337 miles, blue - $2798
NEW INVENTORY
All SYM bikes come with a 2 year factory warranty
SYM Mio 50 scooter, 2013, NEW, black - $1998
SYM Citycom 300i scooter, 2009, NEW, red or blue $3999
SYM Fiddle II 125 scooter, 2013, NEW, sand, blue, black,
red, white - $2295
SYM HD200 scooter, 2013, NEW, Yellow, Orange, Black,
Red, Gunmetal - $3495
SYM Symba (aka Honda Cub), 2013, NEW, blue, red,
black - $2349
SYM Wolf (aka Honda CB150), 2013, NEW, Tricolor, red,
green, black, white - $2995
Hyosung Aquila 250 EFI, NEW, Black, - $3999
Hyosung Comet 250, NEW, Black, - $4098
‘89 Yamaha XT350 Dualsport. 6.2k mi, new tires, chain,
sprockets. excellent condition, Mendocino Coast. $2150.
707/-962-0379, Mendocino Coast area - please leave
message.
1952 BSA ZB 500cc - $3000
1965 Duca(ti?)Condor350cc - $2500
1966 BSA Thunderbolt 650cc - $3000
1972 BSA B50 TR 500cc - $3000
1973 HD Sprint Aermacchi - $3000
Old Ed Meagor
San Rafael
415-457-5423
1973 CB350 Four, 36k miles. Mild café racer with new bars,
taillight, stainless spokes, Bridgestone rubber, shocks, etc.
Original paint, chrome, seat cover. I have most of the takeoff parts (not exhaust).
Very clean bike with no damage history. Clean title, ridden
on weekends. Needs a few TLC items, call to discuss.
Asking $2550 OBO. (510)760-1986
Custom Design Studios
Mind-Blowing Custom Paint Since 1988
Visit Our Showroom!
V-Twin Service, Repair, Parts, & Fabrication.
Harley Factory Trained Tech.
Reach thousands of Northern California motorcyclists. Just $15 for 25 words, 25¢
each additional word. Photos add $25. Industry classifieds are a higher price. Free
25-word listing for stolen bikes. Deadline is the 3rd of each month. Just fill out the
form, or copy and send it with your check, payable to CityBike PO Box 10659,
Oakland CA, 94610
Scorpa trials motorcycle (French) Brand-new, zero miles
2005 model. 70cc 4-stroke, only 80 pounds. 3-speed
transmission. Call for details. $2000. 415/781-3432.
RIDING SCHOOLS
Doc Wong
Riding Clinics
PERSONAL IMPROVEMENT
Come to the FREE monthly Doc Wong Riding Clinics.
www .docwong .com
Eighteen years, 40,000 riders!
PARTS AND SERVICE
Cycle Salvage –
Hayward
Cycle Salvage Hayward = Full Service.
People are surprised to find out that we’re more than just a
salvage yard.
•Full Service - All makes: We have 3 lifts and 3 full-time
mechanics!
•Tire installation (even if you bought tires elsewhere)
•Plastic Welding (fairings)
•Oil Changes
•New Tires
We buy used/wrecked bikes
Helmets, jackets, leathers, gloves, and all other apparel
Fair prices and easy to deal with.
Used parts -> broke yours? Call us!
Cycle Salvage Hayward
510-886-2328
21065 Foothill Blvd.
ADDICTION MOTORS
Name:
Address:
City:
e-mail:
4052 Watts St @ 40th
Emeryville, CA
510.473.7247
www .addictionmotors .com
Monday-Friday 8am-7pm
Saturday-8pm-6pm
Do-it-yourself lifts available for rent By appointment.
Classes at Addiction Motors
Check out our new class schedule, two classes, every week
and every month @ Addiction.
First Wednesday: Complete Chain Service
Second Wednesday: Suspension
Third Wednesday: TBD
Fourth Wednesday: Fork Service
First Saturday: Making it Yours: How to Customize and
Accessorize
Second Saturday: Brake Service
Third Saturday: Experts Forum
Fourth Saturday: Changing Oil
Check out the large selection of showcased bikes for sale by
owner – we may have your next ride sitting in our shop!
Addiction Motors is a full service motorcycle maintenance
and repair cooperative in Emeryville. Our cooperative
includes the independently owned and operated business
of LG Moto, Mechanical Advantage, Spa Moto, ZBF, and
Wrench It Yourself, all supported under the umbrella of
Addiction Motors, LLC.
Rotors, Brake lines, Pads, Street, Race, Off-road, SuperMoto
PashnitMoto is one of the largest Galfer Braking dealers
in the USA. Colored brake lines, custom lengths, Wave
Rotors. 50 Pages of part numbers.
www .GalferBrakes .net or call 530/391-1356
www .MotoTireGuy .com
Motorcycle Tire Services
San Francisco - Bay Area
(415) 601-2853
Order your tires online, Zero CA sales tax plus
Free UPS Ground, then have a Preferred Installer
in your local area do the installation and save!
Please visit website for details.
ADVANCED CYCLE
SERVICE
*Motorcycle Service and Repair*
• Tires • Service •Insurance estimates
Monthly bike storage available
Come check us out
1135 Old Bayshore Hwy
San Jose, CA 95112
(408) 299-0508
jim@advcyles .com — www .advcycles .com
DUCATI SUZUKI KAWASAKI YAMAHA
Michael’s Motorsports
BMW Motorcycle Service, Repair, Restoration
Air heads, Oil Heads, Hex heads, K Bikes, F Bikes
880 Piner Rd. Ste 46
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
(707) 575-4132
AMERICAN CUSTOM
MOTORCYCLE PARTS
Large Parts Inventory for American V-Twins
Full service on all American-made bikes
Machine Shop & Welding
925-689-9801
2395 H Monument Blvd, Concord
Bavarian Cycle Works
Motorcycle Performance Parts, Accessories, Services.
Low price on Tires!!!
We will PRICE MATCH with any store.
Phone : 408-298-8887
1391 N. 10th St
San Jose CA 95112
Email: info@motogio .com
www.motogio.com
Please mention this ad and you will receive an additional
5% off on your purchase.
EXPERT Service & Repair
Bavarian Cycle Works specializes in new and vintage BMW,
modern TRIUMPH and select motorcycle models. Our
staff includes a Master Certified Technician and personnel
each with over 25 years experience. Nearly all scheduled
motorcycle maintenance can be completed within a one day
turnaround time. All bikes kept securely indoors, day and
night. Come see us!
Quality Motorcycles
ROCKRIDGE TWO
WHEELS
Need new rubber? Rockridge Two Wheels is offering a $50
mount and balance with the purchase of two tires. Factory
techs. 40+ years experience. Full service facility.
510/594-0789
vespawalnutcreek .com
925 938 0600
rockridgetwowheels .com
510 594 0789
For all your Bay Area Vespa / Piaggio / Aprilia needs
EAT AT REDS JAVA HOUSE, SF.
“IT’S REALLY GOOD FOOD”
SAYS CITYBIKE MANAGEMENT.
EBAY SALES eBay sales. Specialist with vehicles, 12
years experience, and 5000+ positive feedback rating. Flat
listing rate. I can produce auctions with 20+ large format,
gorgeous, high quality pictures with my dealer account
and pro-grade camera. Dr. Hannibal Lechter reminds us
that “we covet what we see.” Let me show people what you
have and why they should pay top dollar for it! Interested
in larger lots of identifiable, good-quality motorcycle and
car parts to buy as well. imperialist1960@yahoo .com or
415/699-8760.
SELL YER STUFF IN
CITYBIKE!
Yes, you can do that—it’s easy. Easier than calling your
grandson, having him post a Craigslist ad, then ask you for
$20, which you wind up giving him because you decided to
go riding instead of going to his high school graduation and
you feel guilty. We here at CityBike understand your guilt
feelings, so we will run your ad (25 words or less, please)
‘till sold for just $15. Add $25 bucks to run a photo of your
ride so people believe you’re really selling something and
not just lonely. Subscribers get a free ad every month!
Maybe you should subscribe, eh cheapskate?
FREE HELP WANTED ADS
SCOTTS VALLEY
MOTORCYCLE
SERVICE CENTER
ALL ASPECTS SERVICE AND REPAIR
SPECIALIZING IN AMERICAN MADE CYCLES
JUST OFF HIGHWAY 17 FROM EITHER SCOTTS VALLEY
EXIT
4865 SCOTTS VALLEY DR.
(831) 438-6300
OPEN: TUESDAY- SATURDAY 10A-5P SUNDAY NOON-5P
Enter these contacts into your phone now,
while you are thinking about it, so that you
will have them when you need them .
SAN FRANCISCO AND
BEYOND: DAVE’S CYCLE
TRANSPORT
In our ongoing effort to support and promote local
motorcycling businesses that we rely on, all motorcycle
industry help wanted ads will be listed in the CityBike
Classifieds Section for free.
Contact us via email: info .citybike .com
ADVERTISING
it works!
Contact CityBike to place a
classified or business
advertisement and reach
thousands of Bay Area
[email protected]
415-282-2790
The Old Man
The Old Truck
Dave is working
Dave’s Cycle Transport
San Francisco-Bay Area and Beyond…
24 Hour Service
(415)824-3020 — www .davescycle .com
WHEELS AND DEALS
Call 415/999-4790 for a 24-hr. recorded message and a
copy of the FREE REPORT
MOTORCYCLE TOWING
MOTO GIO
Sonoma, Marin, Napa & Mendocino Counties
24 hour Roadside Pickup
707-843-6584
Insured & Licensed
California Motor Carrier Permit
www .mcmotorcycletransport .com
mcmotorcycle@att .net
ACCIDENT OR INJURY?
Introducing
Marin Moto Works!
Aprilia, KTM, and BMW Service and Repair
Located at 44 Harbor street, San Rafael
Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm
(415) 454-RIDE
Zip:
Motorcycle & ATV
Hauling
235 Shoreline Hwy.
Mill Valley CA
(415) 381-5059
We’re not afraid of your old bike.
Since 1956
Knucklehead
Panhead
Iron Sportster
Shovelhead
Evolution
Twin Cam
Multi Valve 450cc and up
Cyl. boring on H.D. only
21050 Mission Blvd. Hayward, 94541
(510) 581-5315
State:
MOTO TIRE GUY
Galfer Braking
USED MOTORCYCLES:
02 Honda RC51 SP2
2002 Honda RC51 SP2. 6.9K mi. Xlnt Cond w/new tires
& batt, 2-Bros. Under-tail. $7500 Mendocino coast area
707-962-0379 pls lv msg.
CityBike Classifieds
Tankslapper
CHUCK AND ANDY’S
MONGREL
Photo Of The Month
CityBike:
I read Maynard’s article about
the Rickman with much interest.
I built a BSA Rickman at a
motorcycle shop in New York
City in the early 70s, moved it to
San Francisco, and enjoyed riding
it up and down Mt. Tam. It was
stolen from the front of SFSU in
1975 and showed up in the pages
of CityBike 25 years later in an
article (“My Mongrel and Me,”
April 2000) by Andy Saunders.
Thanks.
Chuck Logan
Seattle, WA
MORE SPLITTING
HEADACHE
CityBike reader Mack shares the world class writing of CityBike with
General Douglas MacArthur and President Manuel Quezon in the
Intramuros District of Manila, Philippines. He wrote, “The President
sure seemed interested but General MacArthur appeared to have other
things on his mind. Do I get a free T-Shirt?”
I started riding in ‘57 on a Velocette (didn’t start,
leaked, really handled) and stayed in love with two
wheels. About 1960 I was rear ended twice in a
month riding with traffic on the freeway in L.A.
and the Highway patrolman asked me what da’
f$@k I was doing riding in traffic...he said “kid,
those morons can’t even see you if you ‘re in front
of them. Split lanes; at least you can dodge them
easier.
splttin’ at about 35 but hang way to one side
or the other; have an escape route.”
I’ve been off four times but never had an
accident on the freeway since then. Guess
I’ll leave riding with traffic to the wannabes
on Harleys...you know who you are.
All the best,
Ernie Mathews
San Francisco
Don’t go more than 10 mph faster than traffic,quit

May 2013 - CityBike

Transcription

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