norfolk suffolk - Think! Norfolk

1st EDITION FREE
NORFOLK
SUFFOLK
&
BIKER
Competition Win : Gloves worth £100 and much more!
See page 4 for details or quick scan the QR code!
CONTENTS
2. ME & MY BIKE
3. SAFE RIDER
4. COMPETITION WIN
5. i2i MOTORCYCLE ACADEMY
6. JENNY MAKES YET MORE TWO WHEEL HISTORY
8. HUGGER'S RIDER SKILLS DOWNLOADS
10. HUGGER'S CHALLENGE
12. TWO LEGENDARY CONTINENTAL BIKING ROADS
16. SUFFOLK WHEELS 2 WORK
18. POPULAR BIKER VENUES & EVENTS IN NORFOLK & SUFFOLK
20. BMW R100 CAFÉ RACER SPECIAL
22. BACK ON TWO WHEELS!
24. DUCATI NORWICH
26. DEVITT INSURANCE
28. POLICE CENTRAL ESCORT GROUP
30. KRAZY HORSE & ROCKERS
33. CBT PLUS COURSE
34. DAVID'S STORY
Acknowledgements:
Acknowledgements: Andy Micklethwaite Norfolk Road Safety, Martin Andrew Suffolk Road Safety, Sgt Andy Spall Norfolk Police, Phil Armes. Chris Ball.
Thanks also to all our advertisers, sponsors and contributors who make this publication possible.
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13
1
ME & MY BIKE
Andy Micklethwaite
When asking Andy Micklethwaite, Norfolk's
Road Safety Officer for his motorcycle
history he said "Nobody will be slightly
interested" However, as a youth he
walked to school every day past a Norton
Commando and was determined to own
one. He bought one in 1984 and had it for
15 years. The first copy of What Bike that he
bought in 1976 had a review of the insanely
expensive Moto Morini 3 1/2 (twice what an
RD350 cost) but he really wanted one. He bought
one in 2001 and still owns it.
The Norton made way for a series of Hinckley
Triumphs leading to his current Tiger Sport. Asked
why he has only owned 9 bikes since 1976 he said
“For 18 years, I spent all day on a police bike. Trust
me, the novelty wears off” He had 4 police bikes,
3 BMW & 1 Honda. His current works bike is a
Ducati Multistrada 1200.
Martin Andrew
Hi I’m Martin Andrew, Road Safety Officer
for almost 29 years and motorcyclist for
much longer. Amongst other things, I’m
responsible for the Suffolk part of the
Hugger Campaign, including running
Hugger’s Challenge.
I was virtually forced into motorcycling
by my father (who still rides) at the age
of 17. He presented me with a Honda
CB125S (RBE 692M where are you?) for
getting to college.
I was 25 before I owned my first car, and I
can honestly say, that since I was 17, there
has never been a time when I’ve not had a bike.
(When marriage and mortgages came calling, I did
drop down to a 125cc Suzuki scooter). For over
12 years I was a BMW boxer fan, first a R850R and
more latterly a R1200RT.
However, last year I decided to return to the Honda
fold and bought a NC750X, with dual clutch
automatic/semi-automatic gears. And I love it,
for me, I get the best of both worlds, comfort
on long tours, where I can spend some of the
concentration that was spent on gear changing,
on other things, like the scenery. But if I want to get
a move on, I can chose to change my own gears,
albeit with my fingers, rather than my foot!
Claire Barber
It was a case of ‘well if you can I can’ with
me getting into biking. My Mum had done
her CBT and had a rather awesome (at the
time) TZR125. I took my CBT on a bitterly
cold day in February 1992 on a Honda City
Express. I got my certificate, eventually in
the snow, daring to go up to 25mph on the
road ride!
My first ‘proper’ bike was an RXS100 which
I passed my test on and lovingly cleaned
with furniture polish every weekend. The first
‘big’ bike was a Honda VT500e in red which
I collected from Orpington and rode back –
oh being able to stay at 70mph was such a
joy! I have had several bikes since and not
been without one. I have fond memories of
2
SAFE RIDER
Safe Rider is a great opportunity for you to ride with a police officer, receive a
demonstration ride and have your own riding assessed. Not sure? Ask someone that
has done it!
“Absolutely superb. Every rider should do it.”
most of them, a 535 Virago, an old XJ600, a 1200
Bandit a Buell 1200 Lightning, a Fazer 600 and
1000 (probably the most amazing bike I’ve had). I
currently own a GSR750 and an XJR400 import
In 1997 Mum decided to open her own training
school and I joined as a downtrained instructor
taking my exams in 2000 to become a DAS
instructor. The school has just got the MCITA
centre of excellence award, I branched into
instructor training and been given the job of
Training Director.
In 2014 I joined the Road Safety team at Suffolk
County Council which has been brilliant. I am a
member of a very active Norfolk and Suffolk ladies
group and still teach at weekends (in the summer!)
“It is incredible value for money. I've spent a lot of money learning to ride and this
was the best £50 I have ever spent. It’s great and it works!”
“The police rider was very friendly and easy-going”
…just to let you know how much I enjoyed the Safe Rider course this
weekend, the informal safety lecture was invaluable, the ride out was one
of the most enjoyable and memorable days I've had on a bike. All in all it
was a great course and was more than worth the money.
Norfolk & Suffolk Constabularies both deliver Safe Rider. Created in 1998, thousands of riders
have benefitted from an assessed ride that set them on the path to being a smoother, more
accurate and safer rider and having more fun as a result.
3
You will attend an evening classroom session
to discuss some of the theory and a road
session at the weekend with plenty of
opportunities for debriefing and tea stops. It
will cost you just £50.
You will receive feedback at the conclusion of
the course and you will be given options on
where to go if you are eager to know more.
It’s a lot of fun and the police riders are
here to help you. Don’t let the opportunity
pass you by, be open minded and give
it a go, you may well be amazed at the
improvements that are possible!
For Norfolk Safe Rider contact Andy
Micklethwaite by email at
[email protected]
or call 01603 638115
Details on Norfolk Safe Rider can be found
on www.think.norfolk.gov.uk including
the application form.
For Suffolk Safe Rider contact Hayley
Batterham on 01473 613730 or Kevin
Stark on 01473 613888 Ext 3395 or email
[email protected]
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE MAGAZINE?
As this is our first Norfolk & Suffolk edition, we would love to know what you
think so that we can structure future editions to what you want to read.
If you complete the on-line survey you will be entered into a free draw for
the following prizes:
• Win a pair of gloves up to the value of £100 through Suffolkroadsafe
•A free Safe Rider course in either Norfolk or Suffolk
•A set of ‘Muck Off’ bike cleaning brushes
Please type this URL into your browser or quick scan the
QR code to complete the form.
http://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/
NorfolkAndSuffolkBikerMagazine/
4
i2i MOTORCYCLE
ACADEMY
Most motorcyclists fully appreciate the
benefits of taking further training, but not
everyone wants to do a track day or take
on a process that results in some form
of ‘test’.
So what’s available to you locally
that’s firstly enjoyable, but that’s also
challenging and very rewarding?
i2i Motorcycle Academy have been working in
Norfolk for 5 years and are now working in Suffolk as
well, in association with the ‘Hugger’ campaign.
i2imca specialise in developing rider confidence
and actions, by explaining and then demonstrating
techniques in ways that are really easy to
understand. The aim is simple, to help riders
understand what they do and more importantly, what
they could do.
I attended a day with over a dozen other riders
of mixed experience, abilities and bikes. In the
morning session we covered balance, physical
and mechanical grip, stability and 2 stage braking
skills. The afternoon was based on positive
steering (or counter steer) hazard avoidance skills
and slow riding.
If you are spending your hard earned money
and maybe taking a day off work you need to be
assured that firstly – you will learn something and
then secondly, that you will enjoy it.
I personally have been riding bikes for 40 years
and I have attended a number of different training
scenarios. The day really was darned good fun,
it was very well presented and organised, the
event was extremely relaxed and inclusive, all in
all well worthwhile - and yes I had learnt and tried
something new.
i2i is owned by Tom Killeen, a really enthusiastic
guy who not only explains the theories really clearly,
he then goes on to demonstrate exactly what he
means…on his R1.
The other good point about i2imca is that they run
a series of modules so that should you wish, you
can continue your personal development of both
on road and off road skills.
Tom builds a lot of his course around the stories
that are circulated within the biking world - about
alleged instability, braking effect, lack grip, and all
the negative things that ‘might’ happen, if we believe
these stories…
On today’s increasingly challenging roads, the
skill sets introduced by i2i are not only of benefit
– but essential.
”It is our goal on each event to create an
understanding of the impacts these 'stories'
have on our riding by creating a safe environment
to converse, then demonstrate safely which of
the "stories" are based on fact, and which are
misinterpretations of experiences which hold back
our true potential. In essence the above is what all
the talking and teaching of the physics are for, if we
convince riders it is possible and take away their fear
or lack of confidence we can set them free of the
stories in their heads holding them back.”
Whether you have just passed your DSA test
or have been riding or years, I would challenge
anyone to say they didn’t come away feeling they
had found the day of benefit.
Links:
www.i2imca.com
www.think.norfolk.gov.uk
www.suffolkroadsafe.net
5
JENNY MAKES YET
MORE TWO WHEEL HISTORY
On January 28th Honda (UK) announced that Jenny
Tinmouth had been signed to join the Honda Racing British
Superbike Championship team as it makes its full-time
return to the series for 2015. Jenny completes what is now
a three-rider line-up, joining Jason O’Halloran and Dan Linfoot to contest the
premier class aboard the Superbike-spec Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.
And make no mistake about it, this is no PR stunt by Honda just to engage with the female
audience – Jenny is one fast rider, and has earned the right to race for a full factory team
in BSB. On that subject, Nick Campolucci, Head of Motorcycles at Honda (UK), said,
“There'll be a focus on Jenny because she's a female racer, of course. After all, she's the
first and only woman rider to compete in British Superbikes. But she's a proven competitor
and current Isle of Man TT lap record holder. Jenny joins the team on merit and we are very
pleased that we have the opportunity to work with her.”
Jenny Tinmouth has been racing for over ten years and was the first female to lead and
score points in a British Championship race, after leading a 125GP race aboard her Honda
RS125 at Brands Hatch in 2004. Three years later she became the first woman to stand
on a British Championship podium with a 3rd place finish in the Supersport Cup at Croft in
2009, and then went on to achieve another first by winning a round at Silverstone in 2010. A
season that saw her claim 3rd overall in the final standings.
After a taste of the British Superbike
class in 2011 with Splitlath Motorsport,
Jenny put together her own team for
2012, ‘Two Wheel Racing’, running a
Honda under the name of her main
sponsors Hardinge and Sorrymate.
com, making her the first ever female
British Superbike Team owner.
Jenny Tinmouth
is racing BSB at
Snetterton on 19th
to 21st June
Alongside the main domestic championship successes, Jenny has raced at the Isle of Man
TT races, where she currently holds the record as the fastest female around the legendary
Mountain course, at an average speed of 119.945mph. And won the first ever UK Electric
Bike, Zero Emissions, Racing Championship the ‘TTXGP’ in 2010, as well as finishing 3rd
in the World Electric bike racing Championship in Almeria the same year aboard her
Agni built Z2.
Two months after putting pen to paper with Honda Racing she got her first taste of
the BSB Honda superbike when she joined her team mates Dan & Jason for preseason testing at Monteblanco in Spain, in early March. With a full factory set up
around her, and, for the first time in her career, the best in machinery available to her,
2015 looks like it could be another first for Jenny - as she takes on, and beats, some
of the best superbike riders on the planet.
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7
HUGGER'S RIDER
SKILLS DOWNLOADS
Hugger’s Rider Skills Downloads are a free introduction to police riding practices,
containing advice on being a more accurate, flowing and inevitably safer while
getting more enjoyment out of your bike.
While the content is up to date, the downloads are rooted in a driving and riding system called
“Roadcraft” that was established nearly 100 years ago.
Very few changes have been made to Roadcraft manuals over the years, other than graphics
and technological updates because it’s based on common sense. Generations of police
riders have been trained according to its principles. It works!
Roadcraft origins can be traced back to the 1920s and Sir Mark Everard Pepys, the 6th Earl
of Cottenham, a racing driver and motoring enthusiast who had a radio show promoting safer
driving. His advice included what is now known as the ‘Safe Riding Rule’ of being able to stop
in the distance you can see to be clear on your own side of the road .
Examples of
pages from one
of the downloads
In the 1930s the Earl was recruited by the fledgling Metropolitan police driving school where
he influenced the principles and techniques of advanced police driver training.
Roadcraft has long been adopted as the standard reference material by the Institute of
Advanced Motorists (IAM) & the Royal Society for the prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and
has formed the basis of numerous press articles over the years that, whilst not necessarily
crediting Roadcraft as the source, were clearly based on its content.
The Downloads were created as an introduction to Roadcraft available to everyone, the
information is too valuable not to be widely known. They are used as pre reads for Norfolk and
Suffolk Constabulary’s Safe Rider programme.
Free to download, they contain many topics from the manual repackaged in a lighter way with
graphics and embedded Youtube video to reinforce the explanations.
THE TOPICS COVERED ARE:
- Cornering
- Overtaking
- Filtering - System
8
- Junctions
- Observation & Planning
- Wet Weather Riding
There is also one aimed squarely at Young Riders of small bikes and scooters.
We would always advise that you take training with an instructor to get the most out of your
bike. However, reading these documents should at least get you thinking about what you are
currently doing and where you might consider changing things. They can be found on
www.think.norfolk.gov.uk or http://www.suffolkroadsafe.net/
Please note - The YouTube videos may not run on some tablet devices but will run on
computers with full versions of internet browsers that .
The downloads are not a replacement for Roadcraft, they are an introduction to just some of
the principles and we would always advise reading the manual.
9
13
13
TWO LEGENDARY
CONTINENTAL BIKING ROADS.
ARE THEY AS GOOD AS THEIR
REPUTATIONS?
Karl Adler
There are many continental roads highly prized by bikers. Two of the most talked about are the
Grossglockner in the Austrian Alps and the B500 south of Baden Baden in the Black Forest but
do they live up to their reputations?
The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse (high alpine road) is a masterpiece of 1930’s engineering
and heads from the valley south of Zell am See to the glacier at the Grossglockner, the highest
mountain in Austria at 3798 metres. The road winds its way through alpine meadows and rugged
mountains inhabited by Ibex & Marmots to the snow line with some of the most stunning views
you could wish for. You have 48 kilometres of this tarmac perfection to enjoy with an ascent of
2,504 metres and a surface with tyre shredding skid resistance coupled with seemingly endless
bends. What more could you ask for?
It will cost you 24 Euros to ride it although you can add a second day pass for an extra 10 Euros
or a 30 day one for 41 Euros if you become hopelessly addicted, which you probably will. It’s
worth every cent. Unlike the Stelvio pass, that has severe cambers on the inside of some bends,
the Grossglockner bends are reasonably gentle cambers making it a much easier and more
flowing ride`. To get the most out of it you would be well advised to get up early if riding during
peak season as it can get quite busy with traffic. The continuous bike traffic heading back down
by late morning is clear indication that most bikers have got the message.
The view down from Bikers Point on the
Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse
Back on the main road it meanders its way through more bends and some short tunnels until you
eventually reach the Franz Josef Hohe from which point, should you feel so inclined, you can climb
down to the base of the glacier.
This is one road that you absolutely must ride before you hang up your boots. It would be a good
idea to take a helmet camera because, although nobody else will want to see it, much like your
holiday snaps, you will definitely want to sit down and watch it later.
Part of the way up the climb is a spur that ascends along a tight winding brick weaved road to
Bikers Point. It affords a great view back down the mountain at a small section of the magical
snake of tarmac that you have just ridden up.
The glacier on the Grossglockner at
Kaiser Fanz Joseph Hohe
12
13
Heading back down the Grossglockner
The road stops at this point and somewhat bizarrely re-starts many miles further south at Triberg a
continental practice alien to UK bikers used to road numbers continuing unbroken to their end.
The good news is that the B500 is not the only road in the area and Swartzwald is still a great
place to ride. The biker’s café just north of Seebach on the B500 has free coloured maps
detailing some choice routes in the area and there are some cracking roads to choose from.
You can’t miss the café, it has a huge wooden statue of a Harley in front of it. If that invites a
quip, it is being resisted!
You may have seen Pension Williams at Seebach mentioned in MCN. It is very popular with
UK bikers and run by a very nice British couple but book early.
The places to eat in Seebach are a bit limited and it largely depends on how you like your
pork cooked, Schnitzel, medallions, steaks etc. Pork seems to be compulsory and ‘vegetarian
option’ probably loses something in translation and just involves a bit less pork.
Pack your bags and head to central Europe, you won’t regret it.
Not the B500 but a much
better road in the area
If the Grossglockner fully deserves its legendary reputation, the B500 road south of Baden Baden
falls a bit short. It’s not a problem with the road itself, it is a fabulous route typical of many in the
Black Forest, the problem is the speed limits.
The heavy toll of bike crashes resulted in the authorities imposing draconian speed limits that
make riding the road tedious. The explanation of why the speed limits appear so ‘over the top’
becomes clear when you learn that three years ago there was, on average, one rider a week
being killed.
The most popular section is probably from Baden Baden south towards Freudenstat with its
interminable 50, 60, 70 and, occasionally, 80kph speed limits. If the road was subject to the
national speed limit of 100kph (60mph) it would be perfectly safe and enjoyable if ridden sensibly
at that speed but there’s the rub.
It is easy to imagine how some riders have attacked it way too fast, beyond their ability and
got it badly wrong and there are an awful lot of trees to hit if you are incapable of keeping it
on the tarmac.
The section south of Seebach, opens out into fast, sweeping bends more akin to heathland than
forest with a 100 kph speed limit. You would be well advised to watch your speed though as the
fines are eye-wateringly high.
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15
SUFFOLK
WHEELS
2 WORK
GETTING
MORE PEOPLE
TO WORK ACROSS
MORE OF SUFFOLK
Jonathan has recently passed his basic training and is now travelling to his
job with Johnson Controls in Lower Glemsford, Sudbury thanks to Suffolk
Wheels 2 Work.
“Before being accepted onto the Suffolk Wheels
2 Work scheme my only means of transport was
by bus or having to walk everywhere, but by the
time I finished work there was no public transport
available so I had an 11 mile walk home. Without
Suffolk Wheels 2 Work my job opportunities
were severely limited and I suspect I would still
be seeking employment. Now I have my own
transport which means I can get to and from
work, and it has also given me the opportunity
to extend my social life beyond the transport
limitations I had before. It is an excellent scheme
and I hope many others can also receive the
same opportunity and massive benefits that it
has given me.”
Jonathan’s new scooter not only
helps him travel to work, but has
also improved his social life
Suffolk Wheels 2 Work expands to Sudbury and
Stowmarket with JobCentre Plus.
Kevin Davies is employed by the SVC
Agency in Nayland and is also benefitting
from the scheme.
Thanks to funding made available through the Department of
Work and Pensions, Suffolk Wheels 2 Work has recently launched
a 6 month project offering scooter loans to individuals registered
with Sudbury or Stowmarket Job Centre Plus, who are unemployed
and have been offered a job placement.
Initial training, safety equipment and 10 weeks loan of a 50cc Honda
Vision moped is offered free of charge. The partnership aims to improve
employment outcomes for individuals living in Babergh and Mid Suffolk
over the next 6 months helping to tackle transport barriers that may be
preventing access to work, either due to home or employment locations, shift
patterns that do not fit public transport timetables, or work involving daily travel
such as agency care work.
If you would like to find out more or think you may be eligible for the
Suffolk Wheels 2 Work scheme, contact the Project Coordinator, Andy
Simpson, on 01473 345322, mobile 07901 914566 or
[email protected].
Kevin now finds it much easier to
get to and from work, thanks to
Suffolk Wheels 2 Work
“Public transport in my area is not too bad but it
restricts me with many jobs where I finish work
late at night”. When I attended the Sudbury
Jobsfair in October, I was informed that on the
successful acceptance of a firm job offer that I
would be eligible for a scooter loan from Suffolk
Wheels 2 Work. The scooter is helping to
change my life and allowing me to open more
doors in my working life, and socially. Suffolk
Wheels 2 Work also recognised that I travelled
long distances and have provided me with a
Honda Vision 110cc scooter which has been
fantastic, it’s a great scheme which I would
highly recommend to others”
www.facebook.com/Wheels2Work.Suffolk
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SOME POPULAR BIKER
VENUES & EVENTS IN
NORFOLK & SUFFOLK
Sundays
Summer biker meeting places tend to change over time but the current
favourites in Norfolk and Suffolk are as follows. If you know of any that we
don’t please email them to us for future editions.
Numerous dealer launch events or special weekends occur during the year and are notified via
Hugger’s Twitter & Facebook. Follow Hugger on thinkhugger (Twitter) or Think! Hugger (Facebook)
to make sure you don’t miss anything that’s going on.
Norfolk Bike Meets
Whitwell & Reepham Railway Museum
Wells next the Sea
Less prominent than Hunstanton but Wells Quay is still a popular destination for bikers on a Sunday.
Regular Shows & Events
Major Events 2015
British Super Bikes Snetterton round
Wimbotsham Classic Bike Show
Friday 19th to Sunday 21st June
Monday 31st August
This is unquestionably the most popular venue in Norfolk with several hundred
bikes congregating on a fine evening. The museum has good catering facilities and
opportunities to mingle with other bikers.
Wheels next the Sea bike show (Wells)
The venue can be found by heading from Norwich towards Fakenham on the A1067 and
turning right down Nowhere Lane (honestly!) about a mile after leaving Gt Witchingham/
Lenwade. It’s a narrow road and the Railway museum can be found on the right.www.whitwellstation.com
Copdock Motorcycle Show Trinity Park Ipswich
Thetford Bike Show
Friday evenings
White Swan Public House, Gt Yarmouth
Friday evenings
Sunday 21st June
Sun 4th October
Sunday 19th July
Suffolk Bike Events
Thursday
This has been a long standing venue for bikers for many years. It is easily found, located
on the left just over the river bridge as you enter Gt Yarmouth from the A47.
Tuesday
The Greyhound, Wickhambrooke,
Suffolk CB8 8XS
Krazy Horse, 1st Thursday of month
Deputy Dawgs, A14
The Ram Hotel , Brandon, Suffolk except the 1st Thurs.
McDonalds A143 Ditchingham roundabout
Wednesday
Saturday.
Brewers Arms, Rattlesden, Suffolk
Brandon Chick King 1st Saturday of month.
Friday evenings
Located near Beccles, this has become a popular meeting point for riders during the
summer, often as a prelude to heading off to the White Swan at Gt Yarmouth.
Ox & Plough pub Old Buckenham
Tuesday evenings
A very popular biker friendly pub with riders of classic bikes but all are welcome. It can be
seen on the left across the green travelling from Attleborough towards Diss. A mobile hot
dog/burger vendor is normally present plus a curry stall as well this year.
Hunstanton Sea Front
Sundays
This is a very popular meeting point, albeit predominantly with bikers living
outside of Norfolk, making the A149 well travelled on a Sunday. There is a very
small charge levied for parking by the local council.
Norfolk Bike Groups
Many groups of riders in Norfolk are loosely based around Facebook pages and not listed here. Those
groups that we know of with functioning websites are:
Eastern Riders - http://www.easternriders.co.uk/index.html
Fenlanders IAM group - www.nnam.org
Norfolk Advanced Motorcyclists - www.n-a-m.co.uk
Norfolk Honda Owners Club - http://www.norfolkhoc.co.uk/
North Norfolk Motorcycle Club - http://nnmotorcycleclub.blogspot.co.uk/
Thetford & District Motorcycle Club - www.spanglefish.com/
thetfordanddistrictmotorcycleclub/index.asp
Vintage Motorcycle Club - www.vmccnorwich.co.uk
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make the same units. They are a good midprice compromise.
BMW R100 CAFÉ
RACER SPECIAL
Sid Carr has been honing his craft, building specials for himself and his girlfriend for many
years. Believing in the soundness of older BMW’s as a project base on both cost and
availability grounds, he set about this latest project with a clear idea of what he wanted to do
and having learned lessons from previous projects.
The attention to detail is as delightful as the raucous bellow from the Ducati 900SS silencers
with ‘Supertrap’ style end mufflers and home made end caps. The bike has a beautiful
simplicity and clean lines, so refreshing in these days of complex technology begging the
obvious question whether ‘tech’ actually enhances the riding experience.
Sid explained “I started the project knowing that I wanted the bike to be focussed and not
in the least bit practical. I think I achieved that!” The standard boxer forks were not up to the
job so some K series forks and brakes were fitted. Sid said “Fitting the K discs to the wire
wheels and into those forks was a 30 hour nightmare of measuring, machining and swearing!”
Triumph Thruxton clip on bars complete the front end.
Sid made the fairing, mudguard & seat assembly himself and extended the tank rearwards
with a dummy section purely for styling reasons.
20
He continued “Having ridden older
generation BMW’s for years, I felt that the
frame would benefit from strengthening so I
fabricated lugs to mount a bolted diagonal
cross-bracing tube to each side of the
frame. You can really feel the difference
compared to a standard frame, it’s much
tauter. I used fitted bolts to eliminate any
flex”. He also fabricated the rear sub-frame
and rear sets.
The bike is fitted D’ellorto PHM38’s with the
accelerator pumps removed and whilst the
gauze mesh over the bellmouth may not
do much to resist dust ingress it is a small
price to pay for doing away with the ugly
stock airbox.
He has previously fitted Koni Dial-A-Ride
shock absorbers to most of his specials,
being a sensibly priced solution that work
well in a variety of applications. Koni stopped
making shock absorbers some while ago
but the patterns and production tooling was
transferred to Australia where Ikon continue to
The engine tuning work was entrusted
to his friend Steve at Scriminger Engine
Developments (SED) in Sleaford. For
those interested in the engineering detail
the engine has twin plug R80 heads,
a machined squish band, an 11:1
compression ratio, pistons & rods balanced,
dual valve springs, gas flowed heads, 336
cams helping it to rev to 8,300rpm. It runs
the same state of tune as those engines
prepared by SED for sidecar racers with
between 82 & 85 bhp at the rear wheel.
Sid says that some black magic has been
worked on the timing but he is sworn to
secrecy on that aspect.
The earlier rounded profile rocker covers
are so much more attractive than the more
angular stock period items and fit beautifully
to the style of the bike.
Some experimentation was required with the
‘Supertrap’ muffler discs to get the noise
levels right. “I realised that I needed to add
more discs to the stack when I was stunning
Seagulls from 50 yards away…” Sid laughed.
“It was always going to be a case of trial and
error but I’m happy with the way it sounds
and runs now and it passed the MOT like it
so it can’t be that bad!”
The countless hours of painstaking work in the
shed were well spent, this is a superb creation
of which he should be rightfully proud.
The current owner of Sid’s first café racer project had it dyno tested.
It is a sound to behold. Search YouTube for ‘BMW Café Racer
Dyno Run’ or type in this URL. https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=4lg0atJAmWM or scan the QR code.
21
TRIUMPH DAYTONA 675
THE MODIFICATIONS
22
Gear change – a Pro-Shift unit is fitted to
Leg security – to provide some support and
Brakes – both front and rear brakes are
operated from a dual brake lever fitted to the
right handlebar in place of the usual front
brake lever.
Phil Armes
As he explained, “18 years and 10 days after
crashing at the Ulster Grand Prix and breaking
my back I managed to do something which in
all honesty I never thought would be possible
– I slung my leg over a racing motorcycle and
set off down the Glencrutchery Road in the Isle
of Man to ride on my favourite track – the TT
Course. I have to admit that when I was sitting
on the bike ready for the start of my lap my
Footrests – cycle toe clips are fitted on an
extension plate to the standard footrests, and
lined with Velcro. Phil’s boots have Velcro on the
soles which keep his feet secured to the footrests.
the bike which operates the gear linkage via
a solenoid from two push buttons on the
handlebars. Green to shift up, and Red to
shift down.
BACK ON
TWO WHEELS!
Former International motorcycle racer Phil Armes
looked to defy the odds in 2013 at the Manx
Grand Prix when he swapped his wheelchair for
an SV650 Suzuki and donned a set a leathers
for the first time since breaking his back at the
Ulster Grand Prix in 1995. After patient tuition
from the team at ‘The Bike Experience’ charity, at
Silverstone, and further practice at Snetterton, in
Norfolk, Phil attempted to be the first paraplegic
to ride a solo around the TT course when he
participated in the 90th anniversary past winners
parade lap.
Given that Phil is paralysed from the stomach
downwards it is necessary to make a number
of modifications to the Triumph for him to be
able to ride it.
stomach was home to a herd of elephants,
and it did cross my mind that sometimes
I would be better to keep my silly ideas to
myself. But when I was given the nod and
my crew duly launched me, that feeling
as I rode off down Bray Hill (it’s a good
deal steeper than I remembered) was
one that will stay with me forever. Just two
miles later as I headed out of Union Mills
the video in my brain clicked back in and
I knew where I was, and where I needed
to be for the racing line – and that racers
smile returned!!”
Unfortunately it didn’t all go to plan and a
technical issue resulted in him tumbling
off at Ramsey Hairpin. Undaunted he was
determined to return in 2014 to ride in the
Classic TT parade lap, and “finish the job,”
on a Triumph Daytona 675 that has been
supplied by MotorLings of Lowestoft, and
sponsored by Maxxis Tyres, and Datatag.
control the security of his legs, there are Velcro
straps attached to both sides of the bike, just
below the petrol tank, which wrap around the
knees and fasten on the knee slider pads on
his race suit.
The bike is, in all other aspects, exactly as any
other machine that has been prepared for use
on a race track
But once again he was thwarted, this time by
the weather, which caused the postponement
of the parade lap and resulted in Phil having to
return home without turning a wheel on the world
famous circuit. Although he did manage to ride
at the Festival of Bikes at Jurby on the Isle of
Man, in front of thousands of people, and put the
Triumph through it’s paces.
Not one to be beaten, and drawing on the
overwhelming public and media response to his
efforts Phil has set himself a full programme of
activities in 2015, which takes in several other
high profile events. In addition to a third trip to
the Isle of Man, he will also make an emotional
return to Northern Ireland in August for a lap of the Ulster Grand Prix course on the
20th anniversary of the accident that changed his life. Alongside the riding schedule
Phil will also be visiting some of the spinal injury rehabilitation units around the UK to
talk to patients and staff, and raise money for two charities, Spinal Research and The
Bike Experience.
23
DUCATI NORWICH
SEASTAR SUPERBIKES
A brand new purpose built Ducati showroom has
been the winter project of Seastar Superbikes based
in Newton Flotman, just a few miles outside of
Norwich on the A140.
Having been official Ducati dealers since 2007,
Seastar have taken the premium Italian motorcycle
brand of Ducati to the next level to become a Ducati
Store, one of only a handful in the UK.
Seastar Superbikes have seen an increase in
business of 50% over the last two years and this
success has been utilised to expand and grow
the company by investing into the new Ducati
showroom. To achieve the coveted Ducati ‘Store’
status, Seastar have made a substantial investment
of some £200,000 into becoming ‘Ducati Norwich’
and anticipate further growth over the next few years.
Vince Vrinten, Managing Director said ‘We have
been able to invest the profit back into the business
to continue to improve the business and to expand
and grow further. We believe this will give our valued
existing customers an even better motorcycle
buying experience, whilst attracting new customers
to our growing dealership’.
24
He went on to say ‘In addition to having two thriving
brands of Kawasaki and Ducati, we strive to offer
great customer service to our customers across all
departments including the busy servicing and our
large motorcycle clothing department’.
Over recent years Ducati have introduced some
stunning motorcycles from the success of the
Ducati 899 to this year’s 1299 Panigale S flagship
model (demo now available!)
Most recently Ducati have launched the
Scrambler brand, seeing the reinvention of this
iconic motorcycle. Ducati Norwich will have its
very own ‘Land of Joy’ in the new showroom, why
not come and see it for yourself.
If you’d like any further information or to book a
test ride on one of Seastar’s many demo bikes
please call 01508 471919 or email
[email protected].
Alternative view their website at
www.seastarsuperbikes.co.uk.
13
DevittInsurance
@DevittInsurance
How to save money on
your motorbike insurance
Here at Devitt we know that you’re never going
to get excited about your motorbike insurance,
it’s compulsory by law and we’re all looking for
good cover and great service at a competitive
price – but there are certain things you can do
to help keep that premium as low as possible.
Keep Britain Biking is an online biker community celebrating the
UK’s lively biker scene. It has been running since 2010 and has over
15,000 members who share their passion for two wheels through
the website at KeepBritainBiking.com.
Share your knowledge!
Anything you can do to improve your safety, skills or security can help to reduce the cost of your
motorbike insurance but here are a few of our top tips for keeping your insurance premium to a
minimum:
1 Ride safely – less claims and less points on your licence means cheaper insurance.
2 Take advanced training courses – some insurers recognise certain courses and will offer
discounts.
3 Keep your mileage down and inform your insurance company – less usage could mean
cheaper insurance, but you’ll need to declare it and may have a restricted mileage agreement.
4 Lock your motorbike in your garage overnight – anything you can do to make it harder to
steal will reduce your premium.
5 On the security theme, use a tracking device, as well as lock, chain or anchor.
6 Modifications can often mean more expensive insurance if your bike is made more
powerful – so try and keep modifications to a minimum and speak to your insurer first.
Lots of active members write blogs about their latest experiences, opinions and destinations and
enjoy starting conversations about the latest issues that bikers face. It’s great place to meet new
like-minded people and get your thoughts heard.
Members can upload their own events, routes and destinations too – it’s the perfect place to
share your knowledge and see what other bikers think.
Offers and competitions
The site is always updating and promoting their latest biker offers to members, with exclusive
discount codes at popular online motorcycle related shops. They regularly run competitions for
freebies too, so if you’re looking to get your hands on a new helmet, gloves or boots it’s worth
keeping an eye on their Facebook page to see if they have a prize draw running.
Discover Biker Britain
If you want to find your nearest biker café, club, rideout, a great route or biker friendly
establishment then look no further. Keep Britain Biking offers a guide to everything biking in
Britain, so if you want to find something local or you’re planning a trip then this is your one-stopshop for all your biker info needs.
7 Products such as Excess Protect can help – if you increase your excess at the quote stage
then your insurance premium may well decrease, you can then protect your excess.
If you’re looking for advice or help with your motorbike insurance then
don’t hesitate to contact Devitt Insurance Services on 0808 178 7094 or
visit devittinsurance.com for further info or an online quote in minutes.
13
KeepBritainBiking |
@BritainBiking
JOIN KEEPBRITAINBIKING.COM FOR FREE TODAY
and stay up to date with the latest news in the UK biker community!
13
POLICE CENTRAL
ESCORT GROUP
Sgt Andy Spall
motorcyclists, consisting of 26 Constables and
2 Sergeants, plus a Command car and a rear
car, led by an ACPO appointed commander.
The role of the CEG is to enforce a complete
road closure, for while on an event like
the Tour De France, the roads are officially
closed and junctions may be blocked by
barriers or cones there are still hundreds of
private drives, business premises and farm
tracks that can never be physically barriered.
Cycling in Britain has really taken off in the
last few years, with names like Wiggins,
Froome and Hoy becoming household
names and achieving real celebrity status.
as it does on the Continent in respect of road
closures and Policing support.
This has been helped by events like the
Tour of Britain, the Olympics in 2012, and of
course the “Grand Depart” of the Tour De
France in 2014.
For the main part events on the public road
network do not get full road closure orders,
the exceptions being the Olympic Games
and the Tour De France. It would be virtually
impossible to hold those events without full
road closures.
Cycling racing on the road in Britain doesn’t
have the same support from the authorities
That’s where the Central Escort Group
comes in. The CEG is a team of 28 Police
28
The Police bikes work a “caterpillar” system
which involves each the bikes bumping each
other on at a given hazard, the first bike will
stop at the hazard and deal with any traffic
there, and when the next bike comes along he
“bumps” his mate on who moves forward to
the next hazard, the second bike is bumped
on by the third and so on. Their role is to clear
all traffic off the road so that the race can use
whichever part of the road they like and don’t
have to worry about oncoming traffic.
This all sounds very simple until you consider
that the race can be travelling at speeds of
35 to 40 mph, and the Police bikes are going
form a standing start to a stop again each
time, they have to be really switched on to
what is going on behind them, things often
get very fraught as we come into built up
areas where there are lots of hazards to deal
with. That’s what sorts out the riders who slip
clutches for a long time and those with good
machine consideration.
On the Tour De France and the Olympic
games there was less work for the Police bike
to do, but on other events such as the Mens
and Womens Tours, the Police bikes have to
deal with all the junctions, oncoming traffic,
pedestrian and any number of other hazards.
The Police riders are all chosen for the team
for their skill and experience, and it is a great
job to have, I’ve been involved in the CEG
since 1997, as Constable on a working bike,
organiser and recently as a bike Sergeant,
and the response the bikes get from the
huge numbers of the public that turn out to
see an event is overwhelming, the Police
bikes have become part of the show, getting
the crowds cheering and waving, posing for
photographs, looking good and adding to the
whole atmosphere. It’s one of the occasions
where the Police are showing the professional
way we work to deliver a safe and secure
event for the public and competitors to enjoy.
29
KRAZY HORSE
& ROCKERS
Krazy Horse Opens Next Venue to
Showcase Premium Dealerships for Iconic
UK and US Motorcycles and Cars.
Krazy Horse, the Suffolk-based dealership that
builds desire-quenching custom bikes for
enthusiasts from the East of England, has
opened a second multi-dealership opposite
the company’s main motorcycle destination
venue on Lark Valley Business Park where it
will showcase three premium motorcycle and
car brands from the UK and the US.
The new dealerships include The Morgan
Motor Company founded over 100 years
ago in the UK by Henry Morgan, and
from the US, Victory Motorcycle, and
Indian® Motorcycle founded in 1901
– America’s first motorcycle company.
The 6000 sq ft showroom will display
truly head-turning and iconic cars and
bikes including Classic Morgans, Aero
Morgans; Victory’s muscle cruisers,
baggers and touring motorcycles;
and the Chiefs, Chieftains and
just-launched Scouts from Indian®
Motorcycle, both legendary motorcycle
brands from America.
In addition to cars and motorcycles the
multi-dealership will include accessories
and clothing from each of the brands.
The Morgan Motor Company, based
in Malvern, craft over 1300 cars for its
customers each year.
Speaking about the opening, Krazy Horse
MD Paul Beamish said: ‘It’s just two years
– February 2013 - since the opening of
the Krazy Horse destination venue and
we are delighted to say we opened this
second showroom to cope with the
success of this destination venue for
petrol heads everywhere. We are selling
motorcycles, classic cars, coffee,
food and clothing to people
who want to have some fun
at the weekends. Our
customers want to find
something that helps
them to get more out
of life - and we are
more than happy to
help them.’
30
House, Lark Valley Business Park and the new
Krazy Horse showroom is located opposite
(behind the Cecil & Larter Volvo Dealership).
‘We need more space in our main venue, more
dealership space and more space for our
workshops and this new acquisition will give us
just that within a short stroll from our main site.’
‘We are delighted to now be a flagship
main dealer for the Morgan Motor Company
serving Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire
and with everything creatively displayed in
next-door venues, we can guarantee that
we will have something for everyone with a
passion for motorcycles and classic cars.
We don’t just want customers to visit, we
want them to be astounded at what there is
to see – we believe that everything they can
imagine is real.’
One new member of staff has already been
recruited bringing the total employed by Krazy
Horse to 31 and the business is looking to
add more new staff during 2015 for the multidealership showroom.
The Krazy Horse main site features the
Rockers Café and Bar, a collaboration with
the world-famous bike and car destination
venue and meeting-place, Ace Cafe
London. The main facility is located at Empire
The main venue boasts a collection of unique
street-machines, including ranging from luxury
Japanese Zero Engineering ‘Samurai
Chopper’ bikes to racing Patons and
Zaeta Motorcycles from Italy, the heritage
®Norton Motorcycles brand which is
now manufactured at Donnington Hall and
re-launched in the UK and US, handcrafted
Krazy Horse dream-custom motorcycles,
and the most recently announced additions
to the range Avinton Motorcycles from
France and A Chopper.
Krazy Horse, which has developed a
worldwide reputation for building custom
bikes, was started by Paul Beamish as a
hobby, but when he couldn’t get the parts he
needed locally he established a shop that has
continued to expand since opening in 1996.
Clothing brands available from the new
destination petrol venue, cafe and outlet
include Belstaff, Red Wing Shoes, Levi’s,
Levi’s Vintage Clothing, Dickies, Draggin,
Roland Sands, Jofama, Deus, Davida,
Premier, Roof and Hedon.
Victory Motorcycles start at under £9000.
Custom motorcycle costs start at under
£20,000 and hand built Morgan cars
from just over £30,000. For further details
visit www.krazyhorse.co.uk, www.
krazyhorsemorgan.co.uk, www.
krazyhorseIndian.co.uk,
www.krazyhorsevictory.co.uk or see
Krazy Horse on facebook and twitter.
Further information:
Paul Beamish at Krazy Horse on 01284 749645 or [email protected] or
mobile 07989 561 718 or Alison Baker at Madhouse PR on
01284 830321 or [email protected] or mobile 07771 658 612.
31
IT’S NEVER BEEN EASIER TO START TRAINING
CJ BALL TRAINING SCHOOL
CBT PLUS COURSE
Most people are aware that mopeds,
scooters and small bikes can give young
people an economical, convenient and
fun form of transport. However, although
accurate statistics can be hard to obtain we
also know that 2 wheels, and that includes
bicycles, have a much greater risk factor
per mile when compared to cars. Surely the
only way to reduce the risk without more
legislation and more enforcement is to
improve the training. The CBT requirement
for new riders has been seen as a success,
but cost pressure and the demand for
convenience has lead to the course being
crammed into one day at most training
schools. This can make it a very stressful for
both the pupils and instructors when trying
to complete the comprehensive syllabus
to the required standard in such a short
time. In view of this we insist on novice
riders completing a free taster session
ahead of the CBT day. This normally takes
place between 15.30 and 17.30 on most
days. We have used this taster to assess
the ability of the student to be able to
Learn to ride or upgrade your licence at CJ Ball training schools.
INCLUDES:
FREE TASTER SESSION Geared Training Taster Sessions
CBT £99.00 including bike and clothing hire
FULL LICENCE TRAINING With four options to ride
- BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW -
01603 307 500
comfortably complete a CBT in a day. If that
seems unlikely we offer additional taster
sessions at a £25 charge.
Encouraged by the obvious benefits of this
strategy we have decided to take this process
further. The CBT is made up of five elements,
(A to E) which must be completed in turn
before moving on to the next. These five
elements have traditionally all taken place
in one day. Instead, for a CBT Plus course
we will complete elements A and B in a
separate session. Element A is an introduction
and clothing discussion. Element B is an
explanation of the controls, maintenance of
the bike and bike handling without riding.
Separating these two elements from the rest
of the course will allow our instructors to give
useful additional information about clothing &
maintenance. The next three parts of the CBT
can then be completed on a separate day,
this will give pupils more time riding and we
intend to extend the minimum time that they
are accompanied on the road from two hours
to three.
Our price for a CBT Plus course will be £149.
For more information or to talk about any of our courses, give us a call
and we’ll be happy to help.
CBT PLUS CONTENT:Find out more at cjball.co.uk/training
Book your place now on 01603 307 500
CJ Ball
Salhouse Road
Norwich NR7 9AB
1 - Taster session 15.30-17.30 (most days)
2 - Elements A and B, clothing, maintenance and controls (am or pm sessions)
3 - Elements C, D & E on-site riding, classroom and road session
(08.30 to 16.00)
Mon - Sat: 8.30am - 6.00pm
Sun (Mar - Oct): Sales only 10.00am - 1.00pm
13
33
Brenda added: “David was the most
wonderful son and his loss has left such
a void in our lives. Being without him has
changed everything and one of the hardest
things for me seeing the footage is that
David must have had a moment of fear at
the end of his life. I can truly say I know the
meaning of heartache; it’s a physical pain.”
Chief Inspector Chris Spinks, head of
the Roads Policing Unit in Norfolk and
Suffolk, said he remained "astonished” by
the number of views but believes drivers
and riders could still learn lessons from
David’s story.
DAVID'S STORY
A hard-hitting road safety video showing
footage of a fatal collision in Norfolk has
received more than 16 million views.
‘David’s story’ attracted worldwide attention
and was watched by more than one million
people within 24 hours of being released in
September 2014.
The video, which features film captured on
the headcam of Norwich motorcyclist David
Holmes killed on the A47 at Honingham, was
released with the aim of getting riders and
drivers to think about road safety and ultimately
save lives.
The dramatic film shows the moment a car
crossed into the path of the 38-year-old
who was travelling from King’s Lynn towards
Norwich when the collision happened in June
2013. While David was travelling at about
34
97mph and breaking the speed limit at
the time, the driver of the car admitted he
had not seen David or the car behind the
motorcycle, prior to the collision.
With the video continuing to receive
attention David’s mother Brenda hopes
the campaign has had a positive impact
in making riders and drivers think
seriously about their behaviour.
She said: “It really is amazing how
far reaching it’s been. David wasn’t
blameless and I accept this and I hope
the campaign has made people more
aware of what can go wrong. It’s not
always just the life that’s lost but it’s all
the people that are left behind; you never
recover from it.”
He said: "My advice is to drive and ride
defensively; expect the unexpected. When
approaching hazards, such as junctions
or crossings, motorists should adjust their
speed, allowing them time to react to any
unforeseen situations.
"I remain astonished by the attention the
video has received; David’s story got
people talking, it created debate about road
safety and this was exactly our intention
when releasing the footage.
serious of fatal collision but I believe it was
and remains powerful enough to change
people’s attitude towards their driving and
riding behaviour for the better.”
David’s story generated thousands of
comments on the Norfolk and Suffolk police
social media sites with messages received
from people in Russia, USA, Canada,
Brazil, Mexico, Germany, France, New
Zealand and Australia.
Ch Insp Spinks added: "We know David
was travelling at speed but regardless of
this, the car manoeuvre should not have
been attempted. Clearly David was taking
a risk and paid the ultimate price. The
majority of bikers ride responsibly however,
I’m sure many will relate to the riding style
seen in this video. We know motorcyclists
are a vulnerable group and this sad case is
a reminder to all roads users to be alert to
what is going on around you and to lower
your speed.”
To view David’s story, visit
www.norfolk.police.uk or
www.suffolk.police.uk.
"We were never naïve enough to think a
hard-hitting video would prevent every
35
Dave Barkshire is a huge name in the Norfolk
motorcycling world and has been in business
for over 30 years now.
DAVE BARKSHIRE MOTORCYCLES
CHESTNUT COURT
RACKHEATH INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
NORWICH, NR13 6LH
Tel: 01603 722800
www.davebarkshire.com
Photos of Tom Killeen i2imca
Pictures say a
1000 words
Find us at Orwell.co.uk
Call us on 01473 257401
Or visit us in Ipswich
WANNA COME HANG
OUT WITH THE COOL KIDS?
With two awesome stores in East Anglia,
home of the latest Harley® motorcycles
and sweet custom bikes, plus free coffee
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& ride-outs open to everyone,
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Your new destination should be
Newmarket or Norwich Harley-Davidson®,
all bikes, riders and enthusiasts welcome!
With bikes suitable for A1 license holders and
new bikes starting from £7,145 we’ve got a
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IT’S TIME TO FORGET THE 9 TO 5 AND ALL THE MUNDANE STUFF IN LIFE!
Newmarket Harley-Davidson®
Black Bear Lane
Newmarket, CB8 0JT
01638 664455
www.lindhd.co.uk
Norwich Harley-Davidson®
120 Ber Street
Norwich, NR1 3ES
01603 620222
© H-D 2015. Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar & Shield Logo are among the trademarks of H-D, U.S.A. LLC. Newmarket & Norwich Harley-Davidson® are trading styles of Lind US Ltd.
MAKE LIFE A RIDE.
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Here at Lind we have the latest BMW Motorcycles available for you to
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Lind Motorrad
120 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3ES
13 622655 www.lindmotorrad.co.uk
01603
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The Ultimate
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