Home//MCN/13 April 2022/In This Issue
MCN|13 April 20227 DAYS IN 60 SECONDSSTAMPING OUT FAKE KITIf you want to ride in shorts and a T-shirt, that’s your call, but if you buy protective kit, you want it to be real, right?INSIDE YOUR 3-IN-1 SPECIALIt’s time to boost your expert knowledge...Fake kit is the scourge of biking. While it might look the part, the fact that it isn’t made to exacting standards – or tested to conform to them – means that unscrupulous sellers are putting your life at risk. Don’t get sucked in – read our guide and buy the real deal in 2022, even it’s not a ‘total bargain’.And while you’re boosting your pub expert bragging rights, why not bone up on all the insider knowledge that will make you an authority on the Bennetts British Superbike series ahead of the…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Alright on the NightsterSixty-five years after the first Sportster, Harley-Davidson have produced their first water-cooled entry-level model, which also rekindles the Nightster name in the range.Pulling off the same trick as most of the Harley range, the new Nightster works hard to look authentically ‘heritage’, while actually boasting a decent raft of high-end tech, clever packaging solutions and electronic assistance.At its core is the debut of the 975cc Revolution Max engine, first seen in 1250 guise on the Pan America. This new 60° liquid-cooled V-twin is developing a claimed 88.5bhp at 7500rpm and 70lb.ft torque at 5000rpm from its 97mm bore and 66mm stroke. While the 1250T has variable valve timing on both inlet and exhaust valves, the new 975T only uses VVT on the inlet cam as, according to Kyle Wick, Chief…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022Keep yourself safeLincolnshire Police have asked riders to be vigilant as they return to the roads over the Easter weekend. Having examined their statistics for the last three years, Lincs police say that the most common reason for a collision is careless riding with speeding, failing to look properly and loss of control high on the list.“I’m a police motorcyclist and also own and ride a sportsbike off duty too, ” says Sgt Adie Scargill, Specialist Operations, Lincolnshire Police. “There is a problem with a small number of riders who cause a substantial amount of danger.“My ask of everyone who rides or drives on our roads in Lincolnshire, is to think what’s around you. Take time to look around. I’m asking riders to think what may happen ahead of them, can they…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Auction fever‘It was the most exotic bike MV Agusta built’One of just two MV Agusta Boxers brought to Britain is to go under the hammer at Bonhams Spring Stafford Sale on April 23-24.The 1977 machine is best known to riders as the Monza, but the model was briefly named Boxer before Ferrari complained one of their cars had a prior claim to the tag. Up to that point just two Boxers made it to the UK.Essentially a bigger version of the 750S America, the 832cc Boxer was among the fastest bikes of the era with a top speed of 144mph and the most exotic MV built with cast alloy wheels and discs brakes all round. This particular example is even more exclusive as it was briefly owned by Phil Read MBE,…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Electric scoot gets 007 flairThe UK is again stamping its authority on two-wheeled design with this new plug-in delivery scooter designed by Warwick-based Callum Design, which is headed by world leading British automotive designer Ian Callum.Called the Rena Max, the electric workhorse has been created for Barq, a company specialising in mobility solutions and created for emerging markets to tackle the growing consumer demand while also keeping a handle on emissions.As now popular in electric delivery scooters, the Rena Max uses swappable battery technology and is powered by 5.6KwH lithium-ion units that offer a claimed range of up to 93 miles. You also get three riding modes and a reverse gear, with power provided by a 7kW motor.But what truly sets it apart is that Callum have tried to make the thing actually look…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022BARGAIN HUNTERMerlin Victory Jacket £129.99Smart casualsSpring has most definitely sprung and whilst the saying goes ‘Nay cast a clout, till May is out’ it’s worth freshening up your riding wardrobe with some new gear for sunnier days. There’s a huge range of casual riding gear on the market and we’ve found fantastic deals on everything from gloves to boots, jackets to jeans and the odd hoodie dropped in for good measure.SportsBikeShop have a huge range of gear from Merlin and all at bargain prices, for example this light tan coloured textile jacket, made from cotton and with a water repellent coating. It has CE approved armour at the shoulders and elbows plus a pocket for a back protector. There are large external pockets, six internal pockets and a connecting zip. Pair…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022A MOTO CULTURE HERITAGE RACER CHRONO WATCHHere’s a fantastic chance for two lucky people to each win a Moto Culture Heritage Racer Chrono Watch. When motorcyclists reminisce about ‘bike racing, ’ no era dominates more than the late 1980s and early 1990s. Riders like Doohan, Gardner, Lawson, Mamola, Rainey, Schwantz and Spencer battled on NSR Hondas, YZR Yamahas and RGV Suzukis all decked out in some of the most iconic colours we’ve ever seen.Racing was wheel-to-wheel, the bikes were beasts to ride, and no quarter was asked or given. From the 500cc World Championship to the Transatlantic Challenge, the racers were stars – legends in leathers who risked life and limb. This was racing at its finest – the high point where the best battled for two-stroke dominance. To celebrate this era of motorcycle racing, Moto…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022BUY IT NOWJON URRY‘Muddy bargains? Not a chance!’A little while ago I wrote about how buying a dedicated trackday bike rekindled my enjoyment of sportsbikes. Now, in a similar vein, I’m considering expanding my horizons.A few of my mates have recently turned to knobbly tyres and are treating it like some kind of cathartic experience. Honestly, you would think that a muddy puddle on a green lane in the Fens has the same healing power as Lourdes. Which made me think, am I missing out on a two-wheeled experience here? Could green lane riding be my next money-burning hobby, replacing making clocks out of old bits of bike? So one evening I got on the internet...As a relative novice, I want something light that is also road legal and has an electric…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022MCN LAWQ ‘Can my firm reclaim my sick pay compensation?’In August last year I was knocked off my bike by a car which pulled out of a side road and I was unable to work for four months. I have been sent the medical report from the other side and it says that only one month off work was reasonable. Now I am faced with having to repay my employer for four months’ sick pay, yet I am only going to get one month’s pay from my opponent. This doesn’t seem fair. What can I do?Elliot, LiverpoolA I assume your employment contract contains a subrogated claim clause allowing your employer to recover sick pay paid to you from the compensation you receive. I also assume you have had your own medical…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022YOUR TRIPReaders Duncan Sutcliffe with Jess Nelson, Hamza Louzai and Roberto GaragazaThe trip Long weekend tour to Champagne for four friends, visiting WW1 memorialsHow many miles? 750 milesBest time to go All year is okDon’t miss…If you’re a history buff, this is a fantastic trip. I plan by choosing the sites we want to visit, trying to make sure it’s a mix of the famous places and some lesser-known monuments, then using Michelin’s ‘green route’ mapping to plot the most scenic roads between each stop. On this trip we stayed in Châlons-en-Champagne which gave us plenty of quieter monuments to choose from as we did a circular route via the Zone Rouge, Verdun, and back via Montfaucon. We also did some miles through forest where a couple of the more adventurous…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022TOP TELLYTHURSDAYApril 142pm, EUR2, Bennetts British Superbikes – 2021 Race of the SeasonSATURDAYApril 163pm, EUR1, Live Bennetts British Superbikes – Silverstone Day 1. Highlights at 9pm and 12amSUNDAYApril 176.50am, ITV4, World Superbikes Highlights from Aragon, Spain7.45am, ITV, MotoGP Highlights from Austin, Texas2pm, EUR1, Live Bennetts British Superbikes – Silverstone Day 2.Highlights at 9pm and 12am4am, EUR1, Motocross World Championship – MXGP Trentino Race 1 highlights. MXGP Race 2 at 4.30amTUESDAYApril 196am, QUEST, World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides: Riding EnglandKEY TO CHANNELS: DRT – DISCOVERY REAL TIME DSC – DISCOVERY CHANNEL DHD – DISCOVERY CHANNEL HD EXS – EXTREME SPORTS CHANNEL EUR1 (2, HD) – EUROSPORT 1 (2, HD) MOT – MOTORSPORT.TV CH4 – CHANNEL 4 CH5 – CHANNEL FIVE BBC BBCI – BBC INTERACTIVE ESPN – ESPN CLASSIC CHANNEL ITV DST –…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Both bikes are part of MCN’s 2022 test fleetBen Clarke, Indian FTR SI expected the FTR to feel stodgy after my ZX-10R but I couldn’t have been more wrong. With a poised riding position, 123bhp and 17in wheels, once you’re rolling the FTR feels more like a sporty roadster. And a wistful glance over your shoulder as you walk away is, let’s face it, more rewarding than it would be if you had just dismounted an MT-09 or a Street Triple. But my favourite thing about the Indian so far is the Jekyll and Hyde engine. Chase the redline and you’re rewarded with an almost superbike-esque wail. Bring on summer, I say!Simon Relph, Kawasaki Z900RSProper eye candy! Kawasaki have done a great job of sucking up the essence of the 1970s Z1, including the great colour scheme, then…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022NATHAN WATSONPeople who have shaped our worldWhether it’s Agincourt or Trafalgar, the World Cup or the Six Nations, we love getting one over on our cross-Channel cousins, the French. So anyone who beats our friendly rivals at their own game is deserving of legend status – and that’s what Nathan Watson did when he became the only Brit to ever win the Le Touquet beach race and become French sand racing champion in the process.But the all-conquering Englishman is not only a dab hand in the dunes, he’s also got MX speed and Hard Enduro bravery, too.At the age of 27, Watson has proved himself to be one of the most versatile professional off-road riders, not only in the UK but across the globe. The Nottingham lad has competed at the…4 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘I genuinely love riding it’Is electric the future? No. A leading automotive engineer who I know says in five years we’ll be producing as many internal combustion engines as today, and we’ll be using synthetic fuel and decarbonised petrol. However, electric is certainly part of the future. It’s clean, quiet and has excitingly low running costs.There’s still no escaping that the Zero SR/S is expensive, especially given its battery will deteriorate over time – Zero give a five-year unlimited-mile battery warranty, but I’d worry about residual value if I was doing 20,000 miles a year. There’s also the fact that compared to other £22k bikes the SR/S doesn’t have the top-end chassis spec I’d expect. However, it proves electric can be not only practical but also bloody enjoyable. It’s a great bike that I…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Riding back into the pastSIMON RELPH, SENIOR DESIGNERLove to build bikes as much as I love to ride them, old or new.Every time I look out of my living room window at the Kawasaki Z900 RS, it says to me ‘Get your jacket and helmet, we’re going for a ride’. It looks so good if only I could just step out of the front door and go for a ride I think I would! If it wasn’t for reality of daily life getting in the way…But the other Saturday morning I got up ready to get stuck into the weekend jobs while my wife took our son to his football match, and as she left she uttered those immortal words: “It’s a lovely morning, why don’t you go for a ride?”I didn’t need asking…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Pre-flight checksHelping you ensure your bike’s always ready to rideBRUCE DUNN MCN’s expert technician1 Check the oilLow oil results in low oil pressure, which dramatically reduces the lubrication to fast-moving parts inside your bike’s engine. Check it prior to every ride, referring to the specific method in your bike’s manual (not all bikes have the same system). With the bike upright, make sure the oil is at the correct level, usually between the upper and lower marker lines.2 Don’t ignore the coolantCoolant carries the heat away from the engine via the radiator, as well as acting as an antifreeze in winter. Running low will cause your engine to overheat with lasting damage to the internals. Check the level before each ride via the remote tank. There will be upper and lower…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022Toprak does it for John DenningFor the second year in succession, Yamaha put on a much-improved showing at Aragon. In 2020, no fewer than six races were staged at MotorLand which, as a bogey circuit for Yamaha, seriously affected their season. Last year, a huge improvement saw Toprak Razgatlioglu seize a podium. Last weekend, the World Champion kick-started 2022 with a trio of third places and some spirited squabbles with Alvaro Bautista, Jonathan Rea and Michael Rinaldi.With Bautista and Rea already on race-winning form, it’s only a matter of time before Razgatlioglu follows suit despite this having been the first time in three years that the reigning Champion hasn’t won at Round 1. Tradition was maintained in the sense that, compared to their rivals, the Yamahas struggled in the sweeping corners as well as accelerating…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022ARAGON CIRCUIT16 Bernardi 4 17 Tamburini 2 18 Redding 1WSB POSITIONS RACE 1WSB POSITIONS SP RACE11 Laverty +13.795 12 Redding +15.408 13 Baz +15.564 14 Mahias +18.529 15 Tamburini +22.786 16 Oettl +22.818 17 Bernardi +24.011 18 Nozane +25.367 19 Ruiu +32.598 20 Mercado +32.661 21 Ponsson +35.858 22 Syharin +36.631WSB POSITIONS RACE 211 Mahias +27.641 12 Laverty +28.867 13 Oettl +29.325 14 Tamburini +29.555 15 Mykhalchyk +31.843 16 Bernardi +43.246 17 Ruiu +45.734 18 Ponsson +46.349 19 Locatelli +55.354 20 Syharin +59.698 21 Mercado +1’01.009 22 Konig +1’07.061…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Dixon’s podium breakthroughEver since the first tests in preseason, the potential was there. Now Jake Dixon has some results to show for it. The Englishman bagged his first grand prix podium in Austin, finishing third before asserting “that win won’t be too far away”.On this form, it’s hard to argue. The 26-year old has been transformed in 2022, showing a level of consistency not seen since he stepped up to the unforgiving Moto2 class in 2019. His secret? An all-round base setting on his Aspar Kalex that has worked at each track the series has visited to date has helped, and the confidence that brings.“I’ve started to feel I have a great team around me, a great package, ” Dixon said on Sunday. “I don’t change anything on the bike. We’ve kept…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022How to win the fight without winningCould have won. Would have won. Should have won … Didn’t win. Marc Marquez’s comeback story at the track where he had never been beaten didn’t give the result that he probably deserved.He was magnificent all the same, forging through from last to sixth, after getting left on the line. Three times he set fastest lap, even while picking past slower riders. His CoTA genius was undimmed.After missing two races recuperating with double vision, but for that start-line mess-up, he surely would have won his ninth victory at the long and complex Texan track.Wouldn’t he? Race analysis shows that he lost 4.387 seconds to the leader on the first lap. At the finish, still half-a-second adrift of wresting fifth from Bagnaia’s factory Ducati, that gap was 6.617 seconds.Over 20 laps,…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Bastianini could do this at every round’I don’t know if Bastianini just has unbelievable throttle control, or whether they’ve found something with his 2021-spec bike. He’s so strong at the end of the race and he’s left everyone else scratching their heads. He just sat behind Miller until it was time to go. I wonder if Miller will try and sit behind him next time.Bastianini has a very Lorenzo-esque style, super smooth and high corner speed, which is something we seemed to be going away from with a more stop/ start style, but who says that is the right way? Maybe the track lends itself to that with all those chicanes one after the other when they’re probably only using 20 to 40% throttle - just feeding the power on - it’s not hard braking and…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Rins stakes his claim for 2023The classic style and speed of Alex Rins has never been in doubt. But consistency? That’s been the weak link for the Spaniard who has been forced to re-state his case for retention by Suzuki for 2023.Rins has made an impressive transformation from the dismal, crash-prone performances that saw him slump to 13th in the MotoGP standings last year.And the timing is perfect.With an inventive late race surge Rins finished second at CoTA, only beaten by the unstoppable Ducati of Enea Bastianini.This came a week after a strong third in Argentina with the consecutive podiums securing second in the points, two spots ahead of Suzuki teammate and 2020 world champion Joan Mir.While CoTA is a Rins favourite - he won his first MotoGP race there in 2019 - it was…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022FULL CIRCLE66 TOM SYKES MCE DUCATI‘Target on my back’• 2021 championship position WSB - 11thAfter 13 seasons in World Superbikes Tom Sykes is coming home. The 2013 world champion has signed with Paul Bird Motorsport for a third stint in his career and will be unleashed on a Ducati for the very first time.It’s an exciting move for the championship, one that has caused plenty of debate: How well will Sykes do after such a long time away from the British series? Sykes is an interesting case. So much has changed since the end of 2008. BSB is arguably the most competitive it has ever been and there’s little room for error.Sykes also has to reconnect with the traditional tight and twisty circuits such as Knockhill, Oulton and Cadwell Park. Then…6 min
MCN|13 April 2022READY TO POUNCE18 ANDREW IRWINSYNETIQ BMW● 2021 championship position - 14thIt took Andrew Irwin longer than teammate Danny Buchan to get to grips with the M1000RR last season, but once things clicked the Northern Irishman was able to find consistency. One podium and 14 further top 10 results cemented this. 2022 is the year for Irwin to take another step and attempt to match his 2020 Honda campaign. Irwin is one of the quickest riders out there on his day, one that’s always exciting to watch with his tough riding style. The BMW is a race-winning bike, and it would not be a surprise to see Irwin back on the top step. The Showdown is a must.7 RYAN VICKERSFHO RACING BMW● 2021 championship position - 12th2022 is an important year for Ryan…6 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘THIS LID COULD EASILY KILL SOMEONE’• ‘Easily one of the worst I have seen’Helmets are compulsory. There is no getting away from it, every motorcyclist on UK roads must wear one that’s been approved as road legal. But the amount that you choose to spend on a lid is completely down to you.On one hand, you’ve got your top-spec lid wearers, who won’t consider wearing anything that isn’t from one of the traditional big-name brands and won’t bat an eyelid at spending £500 or more every five years or so.Then you’ve got the pragmatic bunch in the middle, who’ll set a reasonable budget, do their research then buy the best product for them at that particular price.And of course, we all know a sceptic: a rider who’ll happily wear something cheap and cheerful because, after…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022A-HEAD OF THE GAMEArai Quantic from £499.99The Quantic is a typical Arai evolution, blending only the tech and features they’re happy to introduce with their trademark ‘R75’ shell design ethos. This means there is no drop-down internal sun visor, no sharp styling angles or rigid vents and spoilers. The large rear exhaust/spoiler on the Quantic is designed to crumple or detach in an accident, while the inlet vents are all minimal in scale and design impact, meaning they’re flush to the shell or will sheer off, rather than gripping or snagging the scenery (heightening rotational risks) during an accident.www.whyarai.co.ukShark Spartan RS from £299.99Sporty road helmet that’s proper premium. Everything from the exterior vent closures to the four-point visor mechanism to the luxury Alcantara lining just screams value for money. So far this is…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022HOW TO SPOT… FAKE PROTECTORSA load of old bobbins…The head of some crash mushrooms is aluminium - which could transmit more shock to the bike. Evotech Performance have designed their pukka bobbins to have a core of aluminium with nylon moulded over the top of it. This gives the best of both worlds: a good connection to the bike courtesy of the ali core, with the nylon dissipating the initial shock.Not just any old nylonThere’s a science behind the type of hard plastic that the specialists chose to create their protectors. GBRacing use their own blend of nylon with impact modifiers to boost its elasticity. The formula also uses longstrand fibreglass as, in their experience, it offers the best combination of impact protection, heat resistance and longevity. Some cheap copies have been found to…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022WELCOMEEMMA FRANKLIN, DEP EDITORBiking is freedom, and as bikers we’re also completely free to decide what we wear when we ride. Other than a helmet, there’s no legal obligation to wear anything (although we wouldn’t recommend riding starkers…).However, if you choose to wear bike-specific kit, as most of us do, you want to be sure it’s going to protect you. Which is why from 2018 all clothing sold specifically as motorcycle kit must be tested as a complete garment for impact, abrasion and burst strength.This test also lets you know the best performing kit from the less protective gear (see our guide on page 6) so you can decide on what best suits your needs. Meeting these regulations is something that most respected kit brands have worked hard on, not…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Trading Standards are on the caseMCN reported our findings to Trading Standards for further investigation, and they’ve now started closing the net on retailers and importers who are selling motorcycling kit that does not meet the legal requirements.Newham Trading Standards were the first to act after MCN welcomed them to the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show in February, where they discovered 11 retailers that had potentially unsafe riding kit, which had not been tested and certified, for sale. Some had falsified labels and fake body armour fitted.MCN Editor, Richard Newland, commented: “We were delighted to welcome Trading Standards to the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show - having engaged with the team in advance of the show and reminded traders in advance of their legal obligations.“MCN has a zero-tolerance policy on the miss-selling of…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Fake bike kit poses a serious danger to us all’I’m not a fan of preaching, and very much believe that what you decide to wear when you’re riding is your business. That doesn’t mean I think riding in anything other than proper bike kit is a good idea – far from it – but, helmet aside, it is your choice.However, if you do want to wear proper bike kit to keep you as safe as can be expected should you engage in some unplanned pavement surfing, then you need to be sure that your hard-earned moolah is being spent on genuinely protective clobber.And this is where we are all at risk of being fleeced by unscrupulous and callous traders. There is a ready tide of counterfeit, mislabelled and misdescribed bike kit available on the internet, at shows, and in…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Gearing up to say ‘thanks’A group of charitable volunteers have organised a 62-mile ride this coming September to raise money for the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, plus both the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Blood Bikers charities.The Lincs and Notts Ride of Thanks will take place on Sunday, September 4 – setting off from Newark Showground at 10.30am, before following a route through both counties and returning to the same location.“Bikers generally understand the Air Ambulance is a vital service, ” says Roland Johns, 71, who’s been volunteering with the airborne charity for 12 years and helped come up with the original ride. He’s also been a Blood Biker for four years.“None of these charities receive any government funding, ” he continued. “They wouldn’t exist without the good will of the public. Each shout the…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Beliebe it or not…Vespa have unveiled a special edition Sprint, designed by none other than Justin Bieber. The teen pop idol turned millennial fashion icon (nope, don’t ask us either) has turned his hand to design, reimagining the scooter with a completely white paintjob along monochromatic flames. In case there was any doubt who has designed it, his name also adorns the rear of the bike. Available in 50cc, 125cc and 150cc engine sizes, Vespa will launch the pre-ordering system on Monday, April 18. For now there’s no word on price but expect a significant premium.…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022A busy shift for off-road officersPolice officers working as part of the South Yorkshire Off Road Team had a busy weekend at the end of March recovering stolen motorbikes, alongside tackling illegal and anti-social riding. Following reports of illegal activity in the Batemoor and Jordanthorpe areas of Sheffield, members of the team headed out on their own off-road motorcycles to investigate.The officers were soon passed by an adult male riding a black Sur-Ron electric motorbike and were interested in speaking to the rider. The £4500 machine matched the description of bikes stolen in the preceding months in Sheffield. Unfortunately, the rider escaped through a field full of children and the police riders deemed it too dangerous to follow.While searching a nearby village for this suspect, officers discovered another man riding a pitbike on a main…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Sales looking sharpThe latest new motorcycle registration figures from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) paint a promising picture for bike sales in 2022. More than 16,700 machines went on the road in March compared to 12,260 last year, which is an increase of over 4500. In the first three months of the year, there were 28,183 new registrations – a 48.6% increase on last year (when we were in lockdown).“It is positive to see that the latest press statistics for March revealed a 36.8% increase in new registrations, an expected and welcomed rise due to the ‘22’ plate-change, ” says Stephen Latham, Interim Head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association, commenting on the latest MCIA new registration figures.Interestingly it’s some of the smallest machines that have seen the biggest growth with a…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022NEW KIT JUST INFLM Brooklands boots £99.99German brand FLM has over 40 years of experience making highperformance motorcycle clothing. The new Brooklands is a sports boot with a microfibre outer construction, double stitching in key areas, flex panels on the front and back, plus replaceable toe sliders. The FLM Brooklands are available in black or black/ white, UK sizes 7-12.www.sportsbikeshop.comBy City Men’s London II Waxed Cotton Jacket £255The London II jacket is made from a waxed cotton fabric and features breast and hip pockets. Its makers claim it’s 100% waterproof and breathable with a Hipora membrane, as well as a removable inner thermal lining. It’s CE certified to level A and has level 2 protection at the elbows and shoulders with a pocket for back armour (not included).www.saltflatsclothing.co.ukRicha Hypercane Gore-Tex gloves £129.99Designed with…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022FOUR WEEKS TO GOmay 14th-15th 2022 EAST OF ENGLAND ARENAWHO’S PERFORMING?The Devitt MCN Festival of Motorcycling is just four tantalising weeks away. The UK’s best-loved outdoor motorcycle show not only boasts Europe’s biggest multi-manufacturer test fleet, hundreds of retailers, clubs, classic displays, an autojumble, DTRA racing, Moped Mayhem and a huge bike auction – it also features some absolutely jaw-dropping stunt shows.Bolddog FMXThe Boldddog Lings FMX team are second to none. This world-class team of Freestyle MX riders are ready to unleash their incredible high-flying whips, tricks and crazy antics and impress visitors at the Festival. Dan Whitby and his team will be flipping their machines ramp-to-ramp an amazing 60ft in the air with a stunt show for all the family to remember.Two Brothers RacingSponsored by Michelin, Two Brothers are an adrenaline-fuelled and…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Talking pointmcn.letters@motorcyclenews.commotorcyclenewsmotorcyclenewsMCNnewsCommon sense techI agree with Michael Scott’s question: ‘Is it belated common sense to ban shape-shifting as an irrelevant technology?’ In this world of ever-reducing speed limits being more and more closely enforced, developing technologies that rely on illegal speeds to work (shape-shifting and downforce aero) are indeed utterly irrelevant and also use time, money and effort which could be used to come up with improvements which will benefit bikes on the road.Andrew Hayes, Isle of WightAmazing Aleix!What a fantastic race for Aleix Espargaro and Aprilia in Argentina. Aleix did not give up and persevered to win against the might of Ducati and the talented Jorge Martin. What an early twist to the season. Mandalika was also an excellent race. Not unlike my home circuit of Knockhill in Scotland. The…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022YOU NEVER FORGET YOUR FIRST BIKESend your first bike pics to: yourpics@motorcyclenews.comHARLEY-DAVIDSON ROAD KINGNot my first bike but my first long-term test bike at MCN in 1996. Sure made a change from my Kawasaki GT550. Simon BrownYAMAHA YS125This is Kalem Sullivan on his Yamaha YS125 – loving the feeling of freedom from his first bike. Happy days. Shay SullivanJAMES A11My grandfather’s first bike. Shortly after this photo was taken he rode away without realising my grandmother had fallen off! Trevor SmithHONDA SS50Trowback to 1981. Notice the abandoned Raleigh Chopper lurking somewhere in the background. David ‘Mogs’ MorganHARLEY-DAVIDSON IRONHere’s my first bike. My biking dream was completed with this Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Willie G edition. Pravin KaravadraMUTT FAT SABBATHGeorgina McLean’s first bike, a Mutt Fat Sabbath. She is taking her full licence this summer. Scott RussellYAMAHA…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022COMING UP1 Glasgow Children’s Hospital Easter runApril 17 This Egg run has been going 40 years but there’s a route change this year, so if you want to ride (there’s a suggested £10 donation) check out the details.www.glasgowchildrenshospitalcharity.org2 The Land’s End TrialApril 15-16 The original long distance trial takes place this Friday and Saturday. The 24-hour event kicks off at Popham Airfield, rides in remote terrain all the way to Land’s End.themotorcyclingclub.org.uk3 Mods and Rockers Day at Revved UpApril 18 The Revved Up Tea Bar on the Clacton front hosts its annual mods and rockers meet on Easter Monday with stalls, bands and more.www.facebook.com/Revved-Up-4937175040187384 Stonham Barns bike night returnsApril 14 Bike nights are back at Stonham Barns being held on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays starting this week with prizes up…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022MILEAGE HUNTERS‘Scottish sunshine cruise’R5K MEMBERS JO FISHER AND PAUL MURPHYWe set off from our home in Caputh, Perthshire and went around some of our favourite local roads. We headed up the Sma’ Glen to Aberfeldy, Pitlochry, Kirkmichael and Blairgowrie. The best bit was 20 degrees with wall-to-wall blue skies.‘A grand day out’R5K MEMBER SIMON HUNTA grand day out with my mates Dom, Andy, Richard, and Dave. We went to Barnard Castle, Tan Hill, the Buttertubs Pass, Hawes and more. The highlight was probably the Buttertubs for its swoopy quick roads! It’s one of our favourite loops from Durham.‘Stretching our legs’R5K MEMBER ROB BLAKEStretching our legs a bit today – 80 miles through the local Californian ski resorts on my new Ducati SuperSport. Time to start planning some bigger trips and tours.…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022DIVE IN TO THE DETAIL£14,095 Indian FTR S£11,149 Kawasaki Z900RS…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Winning at Le TouquetWatson’s biggest achievement and proudest moment to date, takes a while for him to decide on. “The Motocross of Nations was amazing, ” he beams. “Being part of a team and representing Great Britain and then getting on the podium [with the bronze medal] but personally, winning Le Touquet, because of all the work that went into it, ” states Watson confidently.Enduropale du Touquet, for the unaware, is a famed yet gruelling French beach race, set on the shores of Calais. The track is eight miles long, the race lasts three hours and over 1000 riders compete. It’s utter chaos; racing whilst dodging a minefield of amateurs looks utterly exhausting and makes for nail-biting viewing. It dwarfs the Weston Beach Race. “It’s like chalk and cheese” notes Watson. “You can’t…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Ready to fly the flagFans have waited a long time to see a Brit in a factory Endurance World Championship team, but the wait is over. Gino Rea will race for F.C.C.TSR Honda France this season, riding alongside Josh Hook and Mike di Meglio. The move follows Rea’s successful BSB campaign, where he secured maiden victories on the Buildbase Suzuki. He looked set to stay in BSB, but HRC came knocking.“You just can’t say no to a factory contract with a manufacturer like HRC, ” Rea admitted to MCN. “I’ve been racing a little while now and this is the first contract I’ve had with a factory and as a racer I’ve always aspired to be a world champion. Honda have given me a really good platform to fulfil that ambition.” During his EWC…8 min
MCN|13 April 2022THE MCN SHOWCASE LUGGAGE READY TO TOUR• Fit and capacity rated• Waterproofing tested in all weathers• Luggage used for hundreds of milesRATINGSExceptional ★★★★★ Very good ★★★★ Good ★★★ Average ★★ Poor ★Mosko Moto Reckless 80L (V3.0) Revolver €660.33 (£550) before VAT and import fees‘It’s proof that light is right’Tested by Laura Thomson for two months, 1000 milesElspeth Beard rode around the world with a set of hand-fabricated aluminium panniers. But today, light is right, and adventure riders are ditching hard, heavy boxes and opting for soft sling-over systems. US-brand Mosko Moto are a pioneer of the toughest ‘backcountry’ kit and have made a name for themselves among the most hardcore of riders.The Reckless systems – a play on the riders’ own nature and the bags’ frame-less fittings – are the ultimate in their off-road offering, and…7 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Riding is a skill, and it’s a state of mind’Michael Neeves has been an MCN road tester for 20 years, and recently compiled a whole series of riding tips videos to help all bikers get more from their miles. Amongst his riding gems is one subject many bikers won’t expect: “It’s a state of mind, ” he says. “Even before I was a road tester, the world of the professional motorcycle rider had always fascinated me. How do they do all these miles a year and never really get into any trouble?”Neevesy explains how even something as simple as lovingly cleaning your bike can start to build an attachment to it.He says: “The preparation gives you time to connect with the bike. To reflect on what you’re going to do and look forward to the ride ahead.”Viewers can then…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Smiley faces at HondaHRC’s plan to compromise qualifying and focus on race settings paid off. Debutants Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge accomplished top ten finishes in all three races with new Nissin brakes and Showa suspension – despite Vierge being still in agony with the rib he broke testing in Barcelona. In Honda’s best weekend yet, the Spanish duo each scored 18 points to tie for fifth place in the Riders’ Championship. Like BMW, due to their lowly finishes last year, the Honda entrants are allowed six more days of testing than other manufacturers’ riders.…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘I am hungrier than ever for the title…’‘Some say you shouldn’t get back with your ex, ” two-time World Champion James Toseland joked on TV as World Superbikes blasted back into action in Spain. Whatever the rules of love, it seems Alvaro Bautista and Ducati have got it right. With two wins and one second place at MotorLand Aragon amid some scintillating racing, the Spaniard scored 57 points from a possible 62 to pick up where he left off with Ducati back in 2019.Following his disastrous couple of seasons with Honda, the former MotoGP rider from Talavera de la Reina has just collected as many podium finishes on a single weekend as he had done from the previous two seasons combined. The paddock knew he was fast upon his return to the Panigale V4 R but a…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022Ogden takes more points in TexasThings are on the up for VisionTrack Moto3 Brit Scott Ogden. The 18-year-old scored the best result of his rookie campaign to date, at one of the more difficult tracks on the calendar.Ogden had a rude awakening on Friday morning, finishing the first session of the weekend 4.7s off the pace. But he picked it up on Saturday, going through Q1 to secure a best qualifying place of 12th. He went on to finish in the same position after a tough first lap, where he was shuffled back to 17th. More than the result, it was Ogden’s mid-race rhythm which helped him rise into the points.“This weekend was a really big step for us, ” explained Ogden. “I was so happy that I was able to qualify through Q1 and…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Fabio rides like a demonSeventh may not sound great for a defending World Champion, but Fabio Quartararo’s performance was still outstanding. He and Marquez were the class of the field. How so? Because he rode like a demon. Again left trailing for speed, he had to make it all up in the corners.His best of 337.5kph on the long three-quarter-mile straight was fully 8.6kph slower than Bastianini’s Ducati. But compare his lap times to the other Yamahas, and the difference is as marked: seven tenths of a second.And while he fought tooth and nail for seventh, Morbidelli’s nextbest Yamaha was 20 seconds behind, barely scraping the points. And then demoted to 16th for exceeding track limits.Quartararo’s public comments were measured. “We did a good race. I enjoyed it a lot, even though we struggled…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022COTA CIRCUIT16 Nakagami 12 17 Marini 10 18 Bezzecchi 7 19 Binder D 6 20 Marquez A 4 21 Dovizioso 2 22 Gardner 1FINAL POSITIONS MOTOGPFINAL POSITIONS MOTO 211 Arenas +33.475 12 Ramirez +34.785 13 Gonzalez +34.988 14 Salac +37.786 15 Fenati +38.408 16 Dalla Porta +1’19.999 17 Kelly +1’24.437FINAL POSITIONS MOTO 311 Ortola +10.084 12 Ogden +10.272 13 Nepa +10.424 14 Fernandez +17.967 15 Felton +18.088 16 Furusato +20.563 17 Yamanaka +21.433 18 Kelso +21.959 19 Bartolini +29.099 20 Riu Male +34.336 21 Aji +34.2595 22 Salvador +39.396…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022SHANE ‘SHAKEY’ BYRNEThis year has the potential to be one of the greatest seasons yet. We’re going to have a season where you never know whether the experience of riders like Tom Sykes and Leon Haslam will be stronger than the desire of people like Bradley Ray and Ryan Vickers, who are desperate to make a name from themselves. You have Rory Skinner wanting to put Kawasaki back on the top step, Christian Iddon out to prove a point after being dismissed by PBM. We saw that bike do great things with Gino Rea last year, so there’s no doubt in my mind that Christian can do a good job. Danny Kent is back from injury and there’s another world champion for you - and they don’t come on the back of…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022OUT FOR REDEMPTION2 GLENN IRWIN HONDA RACING UK‘He knows how to win’• 2021 championship position-8th2021 was a strange year for Glenn Irwin, and for Honda. Perhaps expectations were a little too high after a great 2020 which saw Glenn and brother Andrew take a combined total of four wins, five podiums and one fastest lap on the brand-new Honda Fireblade.It was seriously impressive, but Honda also had the advantage of starting afresh, rather than having to adjust old setups to make their bike work with the new, larger Pirelli tyres. In fact, development of the Blade was minimal due to Covid-19 which, looking at the bigger picture, probably cost them last year.Irwin’s only win during 2021 came at Silverstone, an inherited result due to the McAMS Yamaha duo crashing out, whilst he…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022HOW TO SPOT… NON-APPROVED CLOTHINGPretending to be CEBe wary of kit that only mentions that the armour is CE. To be legally sold as biking kit, jackets, suits and jeans must be tested for abrasion resistance, burst and tear strength and be awarded either an A, AA or AAA rating. Pukka kit will have a label with this info sewn into the garment, and most will have full details on their website.‘The fabric meets the standards’Another trick that nonconforming kit brands use to try to convince you that their products have been properly type approved is to use statements like ‘our leather/ denim was tested according to the EN 17092 standard, where it withstood 11.2s in the abrasion resistance test.’ That’s not good enough; the whole garment must be tested and approved, not just…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘It split in two during a 30mph test’As part of an investigation by ITV News, two fake helmets - one branded AGV, the other carrying a fake Arai logo - were put through simulated 30mph crashes by the British Standards Institution. Both failed the tests dramatically, the outer shells splitting apart on impact, with visors and other external parts separating.Wearing such a helmet on the road is illegal, as they haven’t been tested or certified to the necessary standard. But more critically, they also leave riders completely exposed in the event of a crash. “For someone wearing that helmet, potentially in the first impact it’s going to disintegrate and then they’ve got no protection on their head at all, ” said Mark Mayo, BSI’s Personal Safety Testing Team Manager, who conducted the tests.“We tested three helmets -…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022THE KNOCK-ON FROM KNOCK OFFSBack in the day, if you wanted accessories for your bike the only place you were going to get them was at your local dealership. These days, there’s a whole world wide web of bikeenhancing bits available for you to buy at the touch of a button – some of it good, other bits not so good – but much of it temptingly cheap.On the face of it, buying online might seem like a cost-effective way of bagging yourself some of those non-safety-critical essentials like tail tidies, crash bungs, lever guards and radiator covers. After all, the cynical side of you suspects that it’s probably all made in the same factory in China anyway… However, the reality of buying knock-off parts online is that you not only risk potentially damaging…4 min
MCN|13 April 2022Ride it inTriumph’s bike nights have resumed at their Factory Visitor Experience. Starting tonight, Wednesday 13, and running for the rest of summer, the nights begin at 6pm but unlike most days, on the bike nights the Visitor Experience facility stays open late so you can pop in for a nose around at all sort of interesting machines while enjoying some food and drink. Despite being at the Triumph factory, the bike nights are, of course, open to any and all makes of machine.New megastoreA huge 10,000ft2 bike shop offering new and used machines, as well as parts, clothing and accessories is opening this weekend. Superbike Warehouse is opening on the Harfrey Industrial Estate in Great Yarmouth, on Saturday, April 16. The shop will stock many well known brands such as Oxford,…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘We’ve earned the right to change’One hundred and seventyseven mph. That was Jeremy McWilliams’ top speed as he fired up the banking at the Daytona on his way to taking the top spot at the King of the Baggers. A few seconds quicker and that great big piece of American muscle would be fast enough to qualify for a spot in the proper superbike races of AMA.Cast your eye across the Indian range these days, you’ll see the tassels and 3000rpm red lines are gone, replaced with bikes producing in excess of 100bhp, shod with sticky tyres and sat on Öhlins suspension. With its 17in wheels the FTR is now challenging more typical performance nakeds while the latest Pursuit mega tourer has radial Brembos, electronic suspension and more computers than you know what to do…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022DEALS OF THE WEEKSAVE £2601£15,499 Aprilia Tuono V4 FactoryDespite being superbike-fast, the Tuono Factory can also be calm and comfortable on the road and comes fully loaded with some of the very best chassis and electronic goodies around like electronic Öhlins and Pirelli Super Corsa SP tyres. It’s roomy enough even for taller riders to enjoy that £2600 saving.• www.colchesterkawasaki.co.ukSAVE £1004£10,995 Yamaha TMAX 560 DX Tech MaxFast, practical, jam-busting alternative to a car or train. This powder-grey bike is a 2021-model.• www.wiganyamaha.co.uk• Engine 562cc • Power 47bhp • Weight 220kg • Seat height 800mmSAVE £860£15,749 KTM 1290 Super Duke RStuffed with performance, tech and with uprated Brembo Stylema calipers and KTM’s TFT dash.• weasdale-motorcycles.co.uk• Engine 1301cc • Power 178bhp • Weight 189kg • Seat height 835mmSAVE £904£7495 Kawasaki W800 StreetCharming retro twin with…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Get your kids a new HuskyHusqvarna have unveiled their version of the 12in and 16in edrive-powered kids’ balance bikes for 2022. The bikes are the identical to the KTM versions as both are made by US firm Stacyc (who also make them for Harley-Davidson) but if KTM orange is a bit garish for your little one, Husqvarana white could be just the ticket. The bikes have three power modes, depending on experience, and a power tool style removable battery for charging. Head to www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com for more info.No MT bank accountsCFMoto have confirmed the price of their KTM-based 800MT adventure bike, and it’s even cheaper than we were expecting. Back in January, the Chinese brand suggested the base ‘Sport’ model would start at around £9500 but it actually starts at £8950, rising to £9950 for the…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022A total GasGasGas have launched their 2023 enduro line-up with a range of Euro5-friendly two and four-strokes ready to hit the trails.Aimed at meeting the needs of riders of all ages and abilities, the new range is available in dealers now, with Euro5 tweaks and improved looks.Both two- and four-stroke models use an electronic fuel injection system that is designed so that the two-stroke versions don’t require pre-mix fuel – meaning you can tackle lanes without needing to bring a bottle of oil and measuring jugs.The WP Xact suspension is claimed to soak up the bumps on even the harshest tracks to give better handling, comfort, and traction.The range consists of four models – the EC250, EC300, EC250F, and EC350F – and all have also had a fresh lick of paint too…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Horwin planning ‘niobium-battery’ bike by 2024The Brazilian arm of electric bike firm Horwin has inked a deal with niobium supplier CBMM to bring ultra-fast charging niobium batteries to the company’s bikes as soon as 2024.Niobium is an element that’s promising big improvements to lithium-ion batteries, offering not only improved capacity but better stability, allowing faster recharging rates that could go a long way to eliminating the biggest hurdle to widespread electric bike adoption: range anxiety.Two ideas are vying to solve that issue. One is battery-swapping, where a network is established to ensure that fully-charged, slot-in battery packs are always at hand, and the other is ultra-fast charging – which is preferable for longer-range machines with bigger, built-in batteries.Niobium itself is a metal, sourced mainly in Brazil. It’s used as an additive to create high-grade steel…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022Super Meteor to make an impactMore pictures have emerged of two new Royal Enfields being tested, with everything pointing towards a full unveil later this year. The first bike appears to be a 650cc version of the Meteor and if Enfield are still as keen on their classic names as they used to be, then the name Super Meteor is a likely contender.Just like the Meteor the Super Meteor brings the classic laid-back cruiser style, this time with a bit more oopmph inside the chassis. The biggest changes compared to the current 650s, are the fitment of five-spoke alloy wheels – 19in front, 16in rear – and USD forks. Together with the forward controls, swept back bars and tall risers give the bike something of a classic ‘cruiser’ style. Adding to the look is a…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022No justice for Garner’s victimsI was astonished after reading the summary and outcome of the legal proceedings against Stuart Garner, that has allowed him to walk free with paltry costs of some £20k for depleting the savings and investment funds of people who had faith in Norton and in Garner to deliver on their promises. This is a really bad day for the British motorcycle industry and the legal decision will do nothing to deter another opportunist from doing the same in future.John Faulkner, emailBe our Star Letter writer and win these DXR Jordan Boots worth £69.99 available exclusively at www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Bikers come and sit all day’Ride further in 2022 with a little help from our one-stop event guideJUST BREWITRide out to Britain’s best biking cafésTATTERSHALL• Loads of parking, a bite to eat and bike nights every month• Open 7 days 8.30am-3.30pm, late on bike nights, closed Oct-Mar• Find out more / Facebook: Tattershall Picnic Site• 47 Sleaford Rd, Tattershall, LN4 4JGWhen you head into the Lincolnshire Wolds for a ride, why not fill up your stomach at the Tattershall Picnic Site? The kiosk was originally a static caravan which was developed into the brick building you see today and has been serving bikers and walkers for nearly half a century.Owner Sarah Craig said: “My exmother and father-in-law had it for 40 years and eight years ago they retired and asked if I was interested. I’d…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘A test route highlight’MCN readers share their favourite one-hour routesThis is a firm favourite of the MCN road test team and was one of the best sections of our original MCN250 route.First, as you head north from Bedford on the B660 towards Kimbolton admire the countryside and the quaint villages with their blooming flowers because it’s mainly 30-40mph limits.There’s a couple of pubs to stop off at in Kimbolton before you continue north on the fast, smooth, undulating B660 and, once through Great Gidding, it’s a pure rider’s road, with sweeping bends and a few sharp turns to keep you alert. After passing through Glatton and over the A1, head north on the old A1, it runs parallel to the new eight-lane section and at Stilton pop onto the A1M for one junction.Exit…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Natty nakedsMILE ROAD TEST• THE HOTTEST BIKES• EVERY WEEK£14,095 Indian FTR S• 1203cc 8v V-twin• 121bhp/89lb.ft• £181.47 per month PCP£11,149 Kawasaki Z900RS• 948cc 16v inline four• 109bhp/73lb.ft• £90.11 per month PCPThese roadsters each tell a story. Kawasaki’s £11,149 Z900RS pays homage to a Japanese inline four-cylinder 70s icon and the £14,095 American V-twin Indian FTR S oozes On Any Sunday cool. But beneath the styling exercise, they’re both exceedingly capable.Released in 2019 the FTR was the first non-cruiser built by Indian since the resurgence of the company in 2014. It was impressive out of the box, which shouldn’t have come as a surprise. They’ve never been strangers to speed. There’s Burt Munro’s land speed record antics in the 50s and 60s and their FTR 750 flat track racer is world class.…8 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘One of the nicest nakeds out there…’MICHAEL NEEVESCHIEF ROAD TESTERIndian have created a machine that’s quite unique. Its big V-twin throbs without being too vibey and delivers monster torque and arm-wrenching acceleration. With so much grunt on tap you need to learn how to treat the throttle, but that’s all part of the fun. Sitting low and slim it feels like a cruiser at heart, yet its tough chassis, controlled suspension and sticky tyres let it blast through the smooth sections of our B-road route like a sporty naked, but it crashes over big bumps. It isn’t as happy on the motorways, but cruise control is a nice touch.You could be on any Japanese roadster with the Z900RS, but that’s a compliment. It’s easy to manage and goes, stops and handles with reassuring familiarity. The ride…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022WORTHY OF YOUR ATTENTIONFull disclosure. I’m less than enthusiastic about electric bikes. There are several reasons, but the biggest is that I tested some of the early ones about ten years ago and thought they were… well, a bit pants. Zero’s latest SR/S Premium has the potential to impress, however. The 2022 version is upgraded with a battery that’s not only lighter but also stores more juice. There’s a new operating system. And there are new ‘Cypher’ upgrades available too, unleashing more power, range and tricks (like reverse). Is the £22,240 SR/S the electric bike to convince doubters?1 Bigger really is betterPreviously the SR/S had a 14.4kWh battery and was good for about 80 miles. The base bike still does. But this year’s Premium model gets a 15.6kW battery and in normal riding…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Make mine a large’EDITORRides every day, all year, in all weathers. Much prefers performance to plodders.THE FACTS£23,635 BMW K1600GT SEPREVIOUS UPDATE: NONEThis is the first dedicated touring bike I’ve ever ‘lived with’ and also the biggest, heaviest and largest capacity. It’s also the only inline-six. So, after 10,000 miles on Ducati’s superb Multistrada V4S last year – what are the immediate impressions of the ‘Special K’?Silky smooth operatorThe whole riding experience is dominated – defined, in fact – by the 1649cc inline-six. From the rasping bark that’s emitted every time you thumb the starter, to the silky, seamless drive, it’s an incredible unit. A sick part of me would love to shove this surprisingly compact lump into a super-naked. The torque is exceptional, the drive turbine-like, and it’s just so, so smooth. It…3 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Nip bike faults in the bud...’‘He who fails to prepare, prepares to fail.’ That’s how the saying goes. It’s very true when it comes to bikes because the majority of breakdowns occur thanks to a simple fault that could’ve been detected and rectified prior to leaving home.Regardless of whether it’s a spin with mates at the weekend or a touring trip abroad, a breakdown is costly and inconvenient wherever it happens – not to mention increasing the risk of you being involved in an accident.So think like a factory rider. Treat every ride as though you’re in the championship-leading MotoGP team and give your bike a thorough check before you swing your leg over.MotoGP riders get their bikes inspected each and every time they enter the garage – and there’s no reason why you can’t…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Brilliant Rea limits the damage… againJonathan Rea’s 113th World Superbike career victory in Aragon was one of his very best and kicked off the 2022 season in style. This was followed by two second places to Alvaro Bautista. There was very much a 2019 feel about the place.Heading to Rea’s beloved Assen in ten days time, the Kawasaki rider trails Bautista by just three points while World Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu is a further 15 behind. Despite his Kawasaki’s top speed defecit (he was outside the top ten on the top speed chart) the 35-year-old demonstrated the tenacity which will forever remain his trademark. His 24 podiums at MotorLand mark a new record for any rider on a single circuit; amazingly, 23 of those have been with Kawasaki meaning, since joining in 2015, Rea has finished…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Davies to Le MansChaz Davies will race for Ducati in this weekend’s legendary Le Mans 24 Hours, covering for Lorenzo Zanetti who was injured in the Italian CIV superbike round at Misano. Davies will share his Le Mans bike with Xavi Fores, David Checa and Marc Moser. Also competing at the French event, which is Round 1 of the World Endurance Championship, is former MotoGP podium finisher Bradley Smith.What a save!Lorenzo Baldassarri started his World Supersport career with victory - and one of the most impossible saves in motorcycle racing as he collided with Dominique Aegerter at the final corner (above); both winners in Aragon, they share the championship lead. On Sunday, Niccolo Bulega was third riding a Panigale V2 - Ducati’s first podium in WSS since 2007.Lehmann dazzles16-year-old German Lennox Lehmann stunningly…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Redding’s BMW nightmareNevermind having a point to prove. It was just a point to his name as Scott Redding commenced his BMW career with the lowest possible score bar zero. ‘“An unrideable recipe of fried brakes, a melted engine and zero grip, ” as it was put to MCN, was neither wanted nor expected from the former Ducati rider, who is 12 times a winner.Following a less-than-spectacular test across Monday and Tuesday, the mood at BMW after Friday practice was despondent. Numerous changes were made to the M1000RR machines for the start of the weekend, whereas the top runners rolled out of the pits with setups they had fine-tuned in testing. In terms of lap times for Redding, the lowest point was Sunday Warm-Up as the Englishman finished 2.3 seconds off the…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022Tough day for the rookiesThis was a tough weekend for MotoGP’s five rookies and the most demanding track on the calendar provided a real physical challenge. Raul Fernandez came home 19th, ahead of Remy Gardner, Fabio Di Giannantonio and Darryn Binder, 37s off race winner Enea Bastianini.Fernandez said: “If your regular pace is in 2’05 and you try to go down to 2’04, you destroy everything – the tyres and body.” Gardner agreed: “After six or seven laps, I was exhausted, and I was not feeling comfortable on the bike. Towards the end, I managed to do a good lap, but I had to put my heart and soul into every corner, and to do that during an entire race is not possible.”‘After six or seven laps, I was exhausted’REMY GARDNER…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022Reality bitesA week after being touted as world title contenders, Aprilia were humbled in Texas. History making Argentine GP winner Espargaro was 11th just 0.3s behind Maverick Viñales (10th).Putting together a championship season is still the holy grail for the Noale factory and it is a big step that even hardcore racer Espargaro may not be around for. Espargaro was 12.9s behind the winner in CoTA and dropped from points leader to third.While the slab of coming European races will be a safer haven for Aprilia, repeating their Argentine win will be a more realistic benchmark of RS-GP.As usual positivity abounded in Texas with Viñales saying it was important that “I see myself at the top” and that he is on the right path. A win is needed. Espargaro added: “I…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022The Beast is the real dealEnea Bastianini delivered a sublime masterclass to win in Texas… and a huge headache for Ducati Corse boss Gigi Dall’Igna.What to do with the ‘Beast’ in 2023 if the 24-year-old Italian speedster keeps up his near faultless form.Is Bastianini now the man for a factory slot next year, leapfrogging the hot tip Jorge Martin and squeezing out incumbent Jack Miller?Gresini rider Bastianini hammered both Martin (eighth) and Miller (third) with his cleverly calculated CoTA victory.And can Bastianini now dare to dream?CoTA was his second dominant victory in four races after winning Qatar and has justified pre-season predictions that named him as a title contender.The stellar start on the GP21 is a huge boost for Ducati newcomers Gresini Racing.There are still 17 races in a marathon season but if Bastianini and…4 min
MCN|13 April 2022SECONDS OUT - ROUND 222 JASON O’HALLORANMCAMS YAMAHA2021 STATS10 Wins22 Podiums120 Laps led4 Poles6 Fastest laps1 TAZ MACKENZIEMCAMS YAMAHA2021 STATS11 Wins19 Podiums79 Laps led1 Pole6 Fastest lapsLast year’s title fight was one of the most exciting in BSB history. Twenty- five years after Cadbury’s Boost Yamaha teammates Niall Mackenzie and James Whitham went head-to-head, Tarran Mackenzie and Jason O’Halloran proceeded to do the exact same.With 21 victories and 41 podiums between the pair, they could not be separated, both in the standings and, at times, on the circuit. O’Halloran dominated the first half, Mackenzie the second.There were great times and incredibly tense times for the McAMS Yamaha team, but ultimately it was Mackenzie who was crowned champion, a quarter of a century after dad Niall won his first title. And now they get to…4 min
MCN|13 April 2022GET COVERED‘It’s a super-fabric suit!’ BKS100SX textile suit from £2500BKS have developed a ground-breaking textile suit with crash protection that matches the best leather suits. Using a tough new polyamide-based fabric, layering techniques and BKS’s seambuilding know-how, the new singlelayer waterproof BKS100SX combo far exceeds the performance required by AAA, the current highest level for motorcycle clothing abrasion, burst and tear resistance. Typically, most current off-the-peg textile suits only achieve AA.Certified to the tough EN13595 Level-2 standard, an optional test which is up to 71% more severe than the requirement for AAA-rated kit, it is extremely resistant to abrasion and tearing, with some areas surviving for over 10 seconds on the slide-simulating test rig. It’s completely waterproof as its extra secure, triple-stitched seams have been tape welded using a state-of-theart machine,…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022HOW TO SPOT A DODGY… HELMETGo to your dealer!One simple way to avoid buying a dodgy, ill-fitting or unsuitable lid is to visit your local kit specialist. Or if you prefer to buy online, make sure the retailer has a physical address and is an authorised stockist of the helmet brand you’re interested in.Be a visor expertEvery helmet brand has their own unique style of visor release mechanism – Arai use their distinctive sidepod design, Shoei’s mechanism sits flush beneath the visor, Shark use a post and ring system, and AGV have a minimalistic pin design. Carefully compare the lid you’re looking at with examples from the manufacturer’s website.Look for the E markNot every lid will have a sticker on the back saying that it meets ECE 22.05 or ECE 22.06, but all type-approved lids…2 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘Our loyal customers help us police it’Their hard plastic protectors have graced the bikes of World Superbike champions, Moto2 supremos and BSB’s best, all the way down to the most crash-happy club race regulars - and it all started back in 2007 thanks to Barnet-born engineer Graham Banks’ (the GB in GBRacing) love of trackdays.However, in recent times, the Hertfordshire-based firm has endured its fair share of counterfeiter chaos, as Graham’s son, Tim Banks, explains: “The counterfeiters are literally copying everything we produce - our design with our logo on, even our packaging and instructions! It’s actually very hard for a buyer to be able to tell what’s genuine and what’s not. But the counterfeiters are using cheaper nylon to our patented blend that we’ve developed, and as such the protectors just aren’t tough enough. Our…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022PUTTING YOU IN THE HOT SEATMCN MEMBERSHIP at greatmagazines.co.uk/mcn-joinRiding bikes isn’t just something we do at MCN, it’s in our blood - in just the same way as it’s in yours. Whether we’re skinning our knuckles in the garage on an old project, reviewing all the latest new bikes, delivering the hottest news, or fighting for bikers’ rights - MCN brings you a whole world of biking every week. And if you become an MCN Member, you’ll not only pay less than you would at the newsstand, but you’ll also get a raft of other exclusive personal rewards and benefits as we build the best club in biking.Enjoy the ride,EDITOR, MOTOR CYCLE NEWSBecome an MCN member from just £5.99* per month for full digital access on your new MCN appDIGITAL ONLYRead MCN on your phone…1 min
MCN|13 April 2022PROTECTION DECODEDMotorcycle kit has to cover a lot of bases - fit well, look smart, keep you warm and dry - but the most fundamental is to provide protection.Luckily, these days all motorcycle clothing is now considered Personal Protective Equipment. Since April 2018 it’s been a legal requirement for all rider wear sold in Europe to be tested to a regulated standard by an independent testing facility, certified by an official body and bear CE marking to prove it.If you can decode the marks, symbols and labels, you’ll be able to tell basic kit from clothing offering maximum safety - and also be able to sniff out fake kit that hasn’t been properly approved. After that, the final choice is all yours. So, here’s what you need to know…HelmetsA motorcycle lid…4 min
MCN|13 April 2022‘DON’T LET THEM CON YOU• ‘It failed at one fifth of the lower CE level’It’s easy to spend a fortune on the latest big-name biking clobber, which is why it can be seriously tempting when you spot a bargain from an unknown brand online or at an event. Leather jackets, textile kit, full race suits, there’s a whole world of kit available from brands you’ve never heard of at a fraction of the price of the well-known stuff, which would lead many of us to the conclusion that maybe we’re just forking out extra for the sake of brand identity.But bargain-lovers need to be aware that all might not be as it seems… When MCN bought a £54.99 Xtron textile jacket online that claimed to have CE armour, including a certified back protector, it…3 min
