WIN TICKETS TO THE KEMBLE STEAM & VINTAGE EXTRAVAGANZA!

3 July 2009

We’ve got 35 pairs of tickets to giveaway to the South-West's largest festival of transport – The Gloucestershire Steam & Vintage Extravaganza. The show returns to Kemble Airfield this year, taking the show in to its 35th year (Friday 31st July to Sunday 2nd August 2009). Enter FREE online here >>

4000 bikers in next ‘Ride to the Wall’?

16 June 2009

More than 2500 motorcyclists took part in last October’s ‘Ride to the Wall’ event from Tamworth Services to the National Memorial Arboretum near Lichfield, Staffs, The ride raising more than £10,000 for the upkeep of the memorial that carries the names of more than 16,000 servicemen and women killed on duty or by terrorist action since the end of the Second World War.
Although only around 350 riders were expected at first, such was the run’s success that it has now become an annual event, and this year’s ‘Ride to the Wall’ will take place on 10 October. To make registration easier and quicker, the ride’s www.rttw.org website includes details of how to register on line as well as other information about the event and the arboretum itself.

Last call for Spa

12 June 2009

The largest and most star studded circuit-based event in Europe in 2009, Bikers' Classics at the historic Spa Francorchamps circuit, over the weekend of 19-21 June, is just days away as Classic Racer goes to press. This year Formula 750 features, and many of the legends that made their name on those early fire breathing monsters will be on hand, and out on track reunited with their original machinery.

Among the stars confirmed are American Steve Baker, the first 750 World Champion, aboard a Yamaha OW31, hard riding French ace Christian Sarron, again OW31 mounted, Kork Ballington, all the way from Australia, and Britain’s own Paul Smart on a factory 750 Suzuki flexi-flyer. British stars lining up include Ron Chandler on his original Triumph triple, former Norton factory star Phil Read aboard Mike Braid’s John Player Norton, Suzuki works rider Stan Woods, Suzuki 750, Finnish ace Teuvo Lansivuori, 750 Suzuki and Dutch stars Wil Hartog, Suzuki, Rob Bron, Suzuki, and Boet van Dulmen, making, what he claims will be a one-off appearance on a 750 Yamaha.
Riding in the other capacity classes is a line up worthy of any Grand Prix grid, with regular Bikers' Classics supporter Giacomo Agostini alongside fellow Italian aces, Luca Cadalora, Gianfranco Bonera and Marco Luchinelli. In what is Honda’s 50th year of Grand Prix racing a special tribute is being paid to former factory Honda rider and World Champion Luigi Taveri, who celebrates his 80th birthday this year.
The action starts on Friday 19 June, and includes the exciting 4 Hours of Spa (see separate story) – an open paddock, with access to the stars modern race fans can only dream of, trade stands, and evening entertainment, which makes Bikers' Classics at Spa unique.

Free admission to Bikes in the Park

12 June 2009

Featuring classic, custom and modern motorcycles, a new bike show entitled A Bike in the Park will take place in Manchester’s magnificentlymaintained Heaton Park on 12 July. Organised by the team that also puts on the Manchester Motorcycle Show each January, the event will include bikes from British and Japanese classics to modern roadburners, along with trade stands and a chance to sharpen your riding skills with an assessment by the Ridesafe Backsafe team.
One of the best things about the show is that it’s absolutely free, and you can find out more at www.abikeinthepark.co.uk.

Promising signs for Netley Marsh

12 June 2009

Classic Bike Shows are gearing for what could be their best jumble yet, the 16th Carole Nash Eurojumble at Netley Marsh, in the New Forest, on 11-12 September. Ticket sales and trade plot bookings already exceed those from a year ago, so it seems clear that not even the current economic climate can keep classic bike enthusiasts away from those bike-bit bargains.

As well as the hundreds of jumblers, a fine array of classic display machines will compete for ‘best in show’ trophies, and there will be excellent catering facilities, including a bar, and free parking. Gates open at 9am on both the Friday and Saturday, and tickets will cost £7 adults, £5 senior citizens and £2 under-15s. Pre-booked discount tickets are available through the www.classicbikeshows.com website or by calling 01507 529529.

This year’s 16th Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show will take place at the Stafford County Showground on 17-18 October, and early dates for 2010 are the 30th Carole Nash Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show at the Bath & West Showground on 20-21 February and the 30th Carole Nash International Classic Motorcycle Show at the Stafford County Showground on 24-25 April.

• Find out more on this event >>

An Invitation from your racing hero...

10 June 2009

To celebrate racing legend, ‘Fast Freddie Spencer’ as guest of honour to the 16th Carole Nash Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show, Classic Bike Shows are offering 30 super fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy a special evening with the star on Friday, 16th October 2009.

This is your chance to listen to the great man first hand – making this an evening you cannot afford to miss!

* A pre-dinner drink with Freddie in a private bar area
* An intimate three-course dinner in the beautiful surroundings of Weston Hall - a 16th century listed building with panoramic views of the Trent Valley
* After dinner drinks with the international racing star and a special guest goodie bag, full of assorted racing gems donated by famous brands in the motorcycle industry
* An individual photograph with the man himself, presented after the event as a lasting memento of this spectacular evening
* Free entry into the exclusive, ‘Friday Night with Fast Freddie’ raffle, where you’ll have a one-in-30 chance of walking away with superb motorcycle prizes!

Limited to 30 places. Enjoy an evening with Freddie Spencer - secure your tickets online today.

Tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity are priced at £200, so to ensure your place call Sarah Downing at Mortons Media Group on: 01507 529549, or order online or email: freddie@classicmechanics.com

• Find out more on this event >> | Book tickets online >>

Bonhams the torque of the town with £1. 4m motorcycle sale

26 May 2009

There was plenty to get revved up about with over 90 per cent of lots sold at Bonhams’ Sale of Pioneer, Vintage and Collectors' Motorcycles at The 29th Carole Nash International Classic Motorcycle Show on Sunday 26 April 26th in Stafford.

As well as the sheer quantity – some 385 successful sales – there were also some hefty bids. Top price went to a 1957 Gilera 500cc replica, going down at an impressive £76,300. Other significant success included a £30,475 1934 Brough Superior and a £47,000 1951 Vincent that smashed its upper estimate by no less than £17,000.

Caistor, Lincs, based VMCC stalwart, Charlie Balmforth – well known at Founder’s Day and other vintage gatherings for his antics aboard his combinations, ably mastered despite his lack of one arm – sent a good number of said combinations through the sale, all of which sold well. For example, his 1919 AJS 748cc V twin Model D, going under the gavel for £14,950. His 1924 798cc Model 13 Raleigh combo’ made £13,800 but star turn was his lovely 1941 1200cc Indian Chief Model 344 which topped out at £19,550 – all plus buyer’s commission and vat of course. Add to that a few tasty solos, like a 1936 Rudge Ulster and a 1963 Venom and Charlie went home with a tidy six figure sum.

Ben Walker, Head of the Motorcycle Department for the company said: “I’m thrilled with the results of the sale. The motorcycle market is more than holding its own. This was a great sale which showed just how much interest there is in classic bikes.”

Aviation Wolds Run away

26 May 2009

The second Lincs Aviation Wolds Run, backed by Footman James Insurance, at the East Kirkby Aviation Heritage Centre, on Saturday 2 May, was an overwhelming success, with nearly 700 entries enjoying a 46 mile ride around the meandering minor roads of Lincolnshire. There were many more present on the site to enjoy two taxi runs by the Panton brothers’ Lancaster ‘Just Jane’, plus a flying display by the resident DC3 Dakota. Over £4600 was raised for the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance.

Pope and Browning are Kings of the Hill

26 May 2009

Carl Pope fired his 600cc Cheney BSA up the Red Marley Hill in fastest time of the day – 19.56s – to win the Silver Helmet and set a new hill record. The Freak Hill Climb weekend kicked off with a pre 65 trial on Easter Sunday 12 April but the main action began the day after as the likes of Arthur Browning (500cc Jawa Metisse), Piers Dowell (600cc Cheney BSA), Pope and Terry Challinor (650cc Triumph Metisse) slugged it out for supremacy. At the top of the final climb, just one second separated all four, with Browning taking the overall win and the £500. Will Priestley took his 1948 Norton to a 25.52s win in the Pre 50 rigid class, Tim Dallaway won the pre 73 to 350cc class in 21.56s on his 350cc BSA. Piers Dowell took his Cheney BSA to the top of the pre 71 over 350cc class, in 19.59s.

3000 bikers support RAFA rideout

19 May 2009

It was sunshine all the way as more than 3000 motorcyclists from all over the Midlands and Wales made a beeline for Shrewsbury Town Football Club before riding in convoy along the M54 to RAF Cosford. There they distributed Easter eggs to the families of serving men and women, including those recently back from Iraq.

Eggs were also delivered to injured personnel at Selly Oak Hospital and DMRC Headley Court. The ride also raised thousands of pounds for the RAF Association, which provides welfare, care and support to past and present members of the RAF and their families.

Two riders who joined the convoy were Paul Sherwin and John Hunt from Leicestershire, on a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy and Yamaha 1100 Dragster respectively. Paul said: "It couldn’t be a better day. We’re really enjoying it, and it’s an excellent opportunity to meet other bikers and make friends while supporting a great cause as well."

Darren Cooke, who rode up from London on a Honda Fireblade, said: "It was bizarre seeing so many bikers on the road, and then thousands more when we got to Shrewsbury. It’s a good way to support RAFA on a day like this, when people almost want an excuse to go somewhere."

Don’t miss Shires Classic

19 May 2009

Set in the picturesque Cotswold village of Bishops Cleeve, near Cheltenham, Glos, the Shires Classic charity bike show at the Tithe Barn on Saturday 25 July will include indoor and outdoor displays of classic, vintage and racing bikes and club displays.
Classic and vintage DVD shows will add to the enjoyment, and both pre-booked and on-the-day entries will compete for the various category awards.
Ride-outs and a Gloucestershire Police ‘Bike Safe’ demonstration will be included, and visitors will also find an autojumble, trade stands, good refreshments, a licensed bar and even a children’s bicycle show. Although entry to the Shires Classic is free, the organisers intend to raise as much money as possible for the County Air Ambulance, so all donations will be gratefully received.
Regular updates on special guests etc will be posted on the www.shiresclassicbikeshow.co.uk website, and trade, autojumble and club enquiries should be directed to show organiser Dave Morgan, 84 Station Rd, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham, Glos GL52 8HJ.
Tel: 07787 562016; fax 01684 274555; email dvc@blueyonder.co.uk
The show opens at 10am and closes at 4.30pm.

Island Racer 2009 - on sale now

13 May 2009

This year’s edition is the best yet, bringing road racing fans bang up to date with every class of racing and every superstar of the world’s toughest road events.
Fourteen-times TT winner John McGuiness will be explaining why this is going to be one of his best years ever on The Island, while Guy Martin opens up about his heartbreak at being robbed of his first win last year plus much, much more.

Filled with eye-popping photography from acclaimed road racing photographer Steven Davison, Island Racer 09 delivers all the excitement and thrills of the toughest two-weeks on two wheels as never seen before. Covering the triumphs and feats from the event’s history, all superbly collated in one 148-page perfect-bound publication. Of course, this can only be a brief snapshot to highlight what the TT’s leading read is all about. Whether you are a novice to what has been called ‘The World’s Toughest Race’, or a seasoned follower of the 200mph thrills on the 37.73-mile long closed-roads course on the picturesque Isle of Man, Island Racer 09 will be the publication to own.

• Written by Motorcycle Sport & Leisure Editor and Eurosport TV Presenter Tony Carter, Island Racer 09 has exclusive interviews from the biggest names and is just filled with all the stories from behind the scenes, so don’t miss out - order today secure online!

• Read more from inside this issue - including sample articles - on www.islandracer.co.uk

Champ Carl Charms Classic Crowds

28 April 2009

Record crowds raced to see multiple World Superbike Champion, Carl Fogarty at the ultimate 29th Carole Nash International Classic Motorcycle Show.
Enthusiasts flocked from far and wide to the Stafford County Showground for the event over 25-26 April 2009, as the Classic Bike Shows team raised the bar yet again to produce an amazing action-packed event.

With the sun beaming down all weekend, thousands of race fans packed in to hear about Carl Fogarty’s long and hugely successful racing career. Carl captivated the crowds with his tales of triumph and told how his no-holds-barred, all-action style approach gained him four fantastic world titles.
The Classic Racer Grand Prix Paddock was another crowd pleaser, providing a booming road race atmosphere with a special firing-up of bikes to celebrate Honda’s 50 years of racing. Mick Andrews also returned with his ever popular trials demonstration and the amazing Wall of Death wowed crowds yet again as their defying display stunts stunned show visitors.

Another of the event’s highlights was the presentation of the much sought-after ‘best in show’ trophies. This year’s big winners included Pete Sole from the North Wilts Classic Motorcycle Club with his 1911 Bradbury, as well as Bill Bewley, who took the pre-1946 class with his beautiful and freshly restored 1937 HRD Comet and Wesley Wall, who won the post-WWII to 1965 category with his BSA Gold Star Spitfire Scrambler. The keenly contested Best Club Stand award was claimed by the ever-inventive members of the Malmesbury Classic Motorcycle Club. This year’s efforts centered around a winter-themed camping trip complete with tents, camp fire and snow along with some tidy classics, including a matching pair of Norton Jubilee twins.
Top manufacturers Ducati, Harley-Davidson/Buell, Royal Enfield and Triumph also provided a new attraction, giving the public the opportunity to view and ride-out on the latest bikes from their 2009 ranges. With great interest in this debut element of the show it’s already been promised to return for 2010 and is sure to become another outstanding aspect to the event in the future.

Show Manager Nick Mowbray said: “The turnout to this year’s event has been totally astounding, particularly during these difficult times. Having leading manufacturers on board as well as Carl Fogarty as our superb guest of honour has attracted an even broader audience of bike enthusiasts to the show, as thousands of first time and returning visitors of all ages and varied interests packed in on both days. With great feedback from customers and many traders reporting record show sales we’re sure that next year’s event will be even more impressive and action packed than ever before.”

• Upcoming shows: www.classicbikeshows.com

VJEMC show boasts wide appeal

27 April 2009

The Vintage Japanese and European Motorcycle Club of North America, along with the Motorcycle and Model Railroad Museum of Wisconsin, and Halfcourt Press Inc, has announced that the International Vintage Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet will be held on 14-16 August 2009 at the Outagamie County Fairgrounds in Seymour, Wisconsin.

A huge indoor vintage motorcycle show will be held with awards and prizes in five different People’s Choice and Concours judging categories. All makes and models are welcome – Japanese, British, American, and European. The VJEMC considers any motorcycle 15 years old (1994 and older) to be vintage. General admission per day is just $7, and children under 12 accompanied by a paid adult are free. Weekend passes are just $18. Admission to the races is $12, with pit passes available at noon on Friday for $25. Food and beverage will be available on site. For more details or application forms, please contact the IVMS at 877-853-6210 or go to the website at www.vinjapeuromcclub.org

Goodwood news

27 April 2009

The world’s media gathered at Goodwood House in Chichester on 19 March to hear the Earl of March outline his plans for 2009 Festival of Speed. The annual motorsport extravaganza, which runs from 3-5 July, is probably the world’s biggest celebration of motorsport history, boasting the greatest display of classic vehicles of any single event.

The theme for this year's event is ‘True Grit – Epic Feats of Endurance’. Fittingly, Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix legend Mick Doohan is expected to make an appearance, in recognition of his remarkable comeback following a serious leg injury, and one that almost ended his career. Among the hugely expensive array of vehicles on display at the launch, there was a surprise appearance of the revived Norton NRV 588. The Spondonframed rotary will take to the hill this year in the hands of Michael Dunlop, son of the late TT legend Robert Dunlop.

Dunlop, making his first appearance at the event, will ride the same machine that he plans to use in this year's TT. He was joined at the launch by motorcycle legend Sammy Miller MBE, Paul Smart and current BSB star Guy Martin. The traditional Hill Climb Classic, which passes along the front of the great house regularly attracts in excess of 100,000 spectators over its three day weekend and entry is by advance ticket only.

Motorcyclists urged to be more vigilant of potholes

8 April 2009

Safety organisation TyreSafe is advising motorcyclists to stay aware of potholes in the road in order to avoid accidents caused by sudden loss of control

Motorcyclists are being urged to be particularly vigilant of potholes this spring as the country’s road surfaces suffer following one of the harshest winters on record. With AA Insurance reporting a 300 percent increase in accident claims due to pothole damage in February 2009, TyreSafe is advising motorcyclists to keep a close watch on the condition of the road as many gear up for long trips over the Easter bank holiday.

“The contact patch between a motorcycle tyre and the road is smaller than a car tyre’s contact patch, meaning that optimal grip is critical,” comments TyreSafe chairman, Stuart Jackson. “Bikers rely more on the condition of the roads than car drivers, as any uneven surfaces can be felt directly by the rider when steering and cornering. A deflection caused by a pothole could easily result in the biker losing control of the bike and falling onto the road.”

The ‘freeze and thaw’ effect experienced during periods of cold weather accelerates the deterioration of road surfaces and the creation of potholes. When the temperature drops, rainwater contained within cracks in the tarmac expands and breaks up the bitumen. Riding over potholes can cause significant handling problems for motorcyclists, as the resulting loss of grip reduces their ability to maintain control of the bike, particularly as they lean into corners, when stability is crucial. The impact caused by a tyre hitting a pothole could also cause damage to their tyre, potentially resulting in a bulge on the tyre sidewall as the structural integrity of the tyre is compromised.

“Any motorcyclists who are concerned about potential damage to their tyres caused by potholes or poor road surfaces should visit their local tyre dealer for professional advice,” says Jackson. “Many dealers will be offering free tyre checks as part of Bike Tyre Safety Month, which will run throughout April.”

For further information about motorcycle tyre safety or Bike Tyre Safety Month, please visit www.tyresafe.org.

Safety top of the agenda for new riders

2 April 2009

As thousands of riders take to the roads for their first ride of the spring, TyreSafe and the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI) advise motorcycling newcomers to boost their knowledge of tyre safety New rider proficiency and safety are top of the agenda as TyreSafe and the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCI) encourage motorcycling newcomers to learn more about tyre safety this spring.

Lighter evenings, warmer weather and the long Easter weekend will see riding surge by almost one quarter* in April compared to March’s total. In order to help riders stay safe on the roads, TyreSafe is running a Bike Tyre Safety Month campaign throughout April to advise both new and experienced riders to check their the pressure, tread depth and condition of their tyres before taking to the roads. Motorcycling is recognised as a vulnerable means of transport, however, by promoting a higher level of rider proficiency and increasing awareness of safety issues, TyreSafe and the MCI aim to inspire a new generation of more savvy riders. “Tyre safety is critical to the bike’s stability when accelerating, braking or cornering,” comments Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe. “The contact patch between the tyre and the road is only the size of a credit card, and therefore riders should ensure that their tyres are maintained correctly to help improve their safety on the roads. We also recommend that bikers take care to look ahead when riding and take measures to avoid any road hazards such as potholes, grit, drain covers and diesel spillages that could potentially damage their tyres.” During April’s Bike Tyre Safety campaign, TyreSafe will seek to raise awareness of the importance of tyres in motorcycle safety. TyreSafe has many top tips for motorcycle tyre maintenance and encourages bikers to pay particular attention to tyre pressure, tread depth and the condition of their tyres. “We are pleased to support Bike Tyre Safety Month as we seek to promote safer motorcycling, as learning how to control a bike effectively should go hand in hand with correct bike maintenance. Tyre safety is crucial to rider safety and we recommend that new riders learn how to take care of their tyres before setting off for their first ride of the spring,” explains Karen Cooke, motorcycle safety manager, MCI. For further information about Bike Tyre Safety Month or to download a motorcycle tyre safety leaflet, please visit www.tyresafe.org.
To learn more about the MCI, please visit www.mcia.co.uk.

Top tips for motorcycle tyre safety

¤ Check your tyre pressures from cold at least once a week using an accurate gauge
¤ Inflate tyres to the level recommended in the manufacturer’s handbook
¤ Inspect tyres for cuts, bulges, uneven wear or objects embedded into the tread pattern and replace if necessary
¤ Use dust caps to keep dirt away from the valve core and to act as a secondary air seal
¤ If your rims are cracked or bent they should be replaced immediately
¤ Check that your tread depth is not below the legal minimum of 1mm (for bikes over 50cc)
¤ Replace old or damaged valve stems
¤ Select the correct type of tyre for your machine and riding style
¤ Check that both tyres fitted to the bike are made by the same manufacturer and have the same tread pattern
¤ Make sure that your tyre has been fitted the right way round by checking the directional arrows on the sidewall
¤ When replacing tube type tyres always use a new inner tube
¤ Make sure your tyre/wheel assembly is balanced correctly
¤ Keep oil and grease off your tyres using detergent if necessary
¤ If you are unsure on any aspect of tyre pressure or tyre condition take your bike to an approved fitting centre and speak to the experts.

Triple celebration at the Ace

Added: 12 June 2009

Three golden jubilees will be celebrated at London’s Ace Café over the weekend of 11-13 September – 50 years of the 59 Club, 50 years of the Triumph Bonneville and 50 years of Metisse.

The café’s 16th annual Reunion Weekend kicks off with the regular Friday bike night, with live performances by hard, fast rockers The Twang Bangers from Germany.
The Saturday starts with breakfast at the Ace from 7am, and the second annual Café Racer & Rockers’ rideout will leave at 10.30am for a special service and blessing of the bikes at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, starting at noon.
Organised by 59 Club chairman Father Scott Anderson, along with the club’s leaders and volunteer helpers, the service will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the club by the late Father Bill Shergold.

Riders will arrive back at the Ace by 2.30pm for the second annual Café Racer Review, with awards and prizes for best bike and runners-up presented by special guests including Mike Cook, Dave Degens, Norman White, Oliver Tobias, Derek Harris, Colin Campbell and members of the 59 Club management team.
As the occasion also marks the Triumph and Metisse anniversaries, there will be prizes for the best examples of the respective marques by courtesy of Gerry Lisi of Metisse, Triumph of Hinckley and Dave Lilley of the West London Triumph dealership Jack Lilley Ltd, that is also celebrating 50 years in business.

Bonneville Golden Jubilee event is not to be missed

Added: 12 June 2009

The Triumph Owners’ Motorcycle Club invites all motorcyclists, no matter what their favourite marque, to the three-day rally celebrating 50 years of the Triumph Bonneville at the Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon, Warks, from 21-23 August.

£16 discount tickets (£13 concessions and £12 children) remain available until the end of July, after which the cost rises to £25. Each entrance ticket constitutes a free entry into the raffle for a brand new Bonneville, as well as access to the Heritage Motor Centre itself (normal admission £9) on the Saturday and Sunday. All kinds of British bikes will be on display in the Avenue of Clubs, and trade stands will add to the interest.

Plenty of caravan and camping space is available for visitors planning to make a weekend of it. After a Friday evening enlivened by The Back Street Blues Band, the event proper will open in a blaze of glory on the Saturday morning, when a tribute display of Triumph Bonnevilles from 1959 to 2009 will underline the timeless appeal of the popular parallel twins.
The Mortons Media Group, publisher of this and many other fine motorcycling and heritage titles, has donated three trophies to the event, and others will come from Bonhams, Veloce Publishing, Shropshire Classics and others. The judging will start after the official opening on the Saturday.

The organisers want to hear from the owners of Bonneville-engined specials such as Tritons, Tribsas, Trifields, Rickmans and Bonneville sidecar outfits from both roadgoing and racing spheres.
There will be a special display for these machines, so if you have one to show, or even a normal Bonneville, get in touch with Martin on 07956 289743. Saturday night features rock and roll band The Flames, and a special celebration real ale from the Slaughter House Brewery will be available all weekend.

Exotic sounds at Mallory festival

Added: 12 June 2009

No fewer than 18 RC163 250cc Honda fours (all genuine, we hope!), comprising the biggest-ever collection of these amazing-sounding machines and led by Tommy Robb, David Hailwood and Malc Wheeler of sister title Classic Racer, will be just one of the highlights of the Vintage Motorcycle Club’s Festival of 1000 bikes at Mallory Park from 10-12 July.
For British bike fans there will be a star-studded turn-out in the Past Masters Parade on Sunday 12 July, with Manx Nortons, the Norton lowboy prototype and JPS Norton RCW rotaries, a Vincent Grey Flash, Triumph GP500, two works BSA Rocket Threes, the Velocette ‘Roarer’ KSS and other works racers, and even a Morgan three-wheeler.

Throw in the sounds of a 250 Yamaha V4, 500 Gilera four and REG 250 to name but three, and the event has all the makings of a weekend to remember. Stars taking part in the Past Masters Parade include Carl Fogarty, Phil Read, Jim Redman, Ron Chandler, John Cooper, Mick Grant, Sammy Miller, Michael Dunlop, Trevor Nation, Terry Rymer, Frank Perris, Tony Rutter, Colin Seeley…well, you get the picture.
More than 40 clubs have already confirmed their participation in the Avenue of Clubs, including the AJS & Matchless Owners’ Club, TZ OC, Italian Motorcycle OC, Moto Guzzi Club of Great Britain, Moto Morini Riders’ Club and Norton OC. On both days of the event, there will be a large autojumble and trade display area including the event’s partners Footman James, Mortons’ Media Group Ltd, Bonham’s and Norton Motorcycles.

At the centre of the off-track action will be the entertainment marquee and Ace Café rock ‘n’ roll stage, with great live action and a bar with three real ales to choose from. There will also be track sessions for visitors on the Saturday and Sunday, a pre-65 motorcycle trial on the Saturday and a grass-track event and sprint demonstration on the Sunday.

Former police officer is new MAG chairman

Added: 19 May 2009

Paul Turner, a former police officer and Honda Pan European rider from Cumbria, has become the new chairman of the Motorcycle Action Group following the group’s 37th Annual Group Conference in Darlington.

The post became vacant after former chairman Jane Chisholm stood down after three years in the position. Paul, who recently retired from the police force, said: “I’m excited by the challenges of this new role. MAG is a dynamic organisation that is more relevant than ever to the future of motorcycling, and I intend to build on the work of my predecessors and help steer MAG to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
“There’s some scary stuff ahead, but MAG has the connections, the experience and the determination to face these threats and protect the interests of all riders. “MAG has been through a lot of internal changes lately, and I find myself at the helm of a ship that has been thoroughly refitted and is ready for its most ambitious voyage. We’re looking to all who ride to come aboard.”

Morini club’s Cadwell date

Added: 19 May 2009

One of the friendliest and most laid back track days on the calendar, the Moto Morini Riders’ Club’s annual event at Cadwell Park, will take place for the 27th time on Thursday 18 June. Proud to be hosting the longest-running such event organised by any motorcycle club, the MRC invites all interesting bikes. Last year’s entry included Manx Nortons, KTT Velocettes, MVs and Seeleys as well as the usual Morinis and other classic Italian bikes. Entry fees are £100 for MRC members and £120 for others.

The camping venue has changed to the Waggon and Horses at South Reston, and for more information check the www.morini-riders-club.com or contact club secretary Dave Mason on 0116 267 5653. After the track day, club activities continue with the annual rally at the Waggon and Horses, with rideouts, including a green lane run, on the Friday. After Saturday’s club AGM and bike show, there will be the usual silly games and an evening barbecue, and visitors and participants making their way home on the Sunday.

Licensing made easier

Added: 15 April 2009

In a new deal struck between the DVLA and the Post Office Ltd, road users will find it easier and more convenient to renew the photographs on their photocard driving licences, something that has to be done every 10 years.

The ‘one-stop’ facility, available at 750 post offices around the country, will allow each rider or driver to have an application scanned, a picture taken and a signature captured electronically at the counter. After that, the updated information will be sent straight away via secure electronic link to the DVLA, which will then post out a new photocard licence to the customer.

The new service, to be introduced from April 2010, will be more efficient and provide better value for money for the DVLA. Until its introduction, however, customers should continue to send photocard renewal applications to the DVLA by post.

Shiny bikes at The Plough

Added: 15 April 2009

Wednesday 17 June will be shiny bike night at The Plough, Cadsden, Princes Risborough, Bucks – a lovely village pub in a great country setting.

Classic bikes will be displayed at their sparkling best, and there will be prizes, a barbecue and raffle.

For more details, contact Dermot (01494 562962; norbsa02@aol.com; http://www.bbcmcc.freeuk.com).

Japanese bike figures plunge

Added: 15 April 2009

More bad news from Japan comes in the motorcycle production and export figures for February 2009. The 72,719 units produced were 54,326 down (or 42.8 per cent) on February 2008, when 127,045 units were made.

Motorcycle exports fell from 122,085 to 74,439, a loss of 47,646 units, or 39 per cent down on February 2008.

Bristol Classic Show escapes the big freeze

Added: 18 March 2009

WORDS & PHOTOS: Derek Freegard

Derek Freegard reports from a west country season-opener with big appeal.

The 29th International Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show at the Bath & West Showground, near Shepton Mallet, went ahead as planned on 14-15 February, escaping the wintry weather that had forced the cancellation of the previous weekend’s Japanese Bike Show & Autojumble at Donington Park.

All space was taken as the west country season-opener boasted 60 club stands and more than 300 trade stands, and the guest of honour, eight-times world champion Phil Read MBE, was on hand all weekend to chat to visitors before handing out the trophies on the Sunday afternoon

Talk at the show varied between the effects of the credit crunch and the weather, many bikers hoping that the exceptional cold snap might herald a long-awaited decent summer.

The growing number of Japanese and Italian classics belonging to members of the clubs taking part was reflected in the stands, with colourful Japanese machinery from the 70s mixed in with the old British bikes.

The Bath Classic Motorcycle Club’s stand boasted a superb British-looking retro 1976 Yamaha XS650 belonging to Sarah Fogden, and along with a Kawasaki Z900, it shared space with British machines dating from the 40s.

Another interesting display featured Difazio centre-hub steering creations including a 1974 Suzuki GT550 two-stroke triple-powered version belonging to Andy Westlake of Buckfastleigh, the only one of its kind built.

The best Japanese bike was Robert Davies-Evans’ 1969 250 Kawasaki Samurai that had been the runner-up in 2007, and Robert also showed an older 250 Samurai that looked just as good on the Bridgwater VJMC’s stand.

Steve Aldworth’s 80cc 1970 Yamaha G5 was adjudged the second best Japanese bike, and Steve, from Poole, said: “The bike was imported from the USA, and was the forerunner of the FS1-E. It’s cost me about £1500 to get it like this”. As well as carrying out superb restorations, Steve creates some stunning specials, and was also showing his 1976 FS1-E that had started life as a Baja brown Fizzy, but is now fitted with a YB100 engine.

Race machinery on display included Terry Morgan’s 1972 Suzuki T500 on the National Sprint Association stand. Tuned to TR500 specification, it sports 36mm Lectron Powerjet flat-side carburettors and a pair of Swarbrick pipes.

The autojumble was the source of many bargain restoration projects, and this year the Suzuki GS range seemed quite abundant, with GS1000 prices starting at around £1000.

New Classic Jap Bike Show at Uttoxeter

Added: 18 March 2009

Uttoxeter Racecourse will be the venue for a brand new classic Japanese-only bike event on Sunday 7 February 2010. The Classic Japanese Bike Show & Autojumble will be sponsored jointly by Footman James and the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club, with support from leading industry names.

Featuring Japanese classics with marque, single model and specialist clubs along with individual concours entries, trade stands and an autojumble, this is a fresh event that will help to kick-start the new biking season.

All the displays will be in bright, modern heated halls with bar and catering facilities on hand, and there will be ample free parking on the site.

The autojumble plots will be indoors and outdoors, the latter on good Tarmac surfaces, and all trader plots will be good-sized.

Each entrant who books in advance will receive two free passes, and public opening will be from 9am until 4pm. Admission will cost £6 per person (£5 concession for VJMC members holding a current membership card) and display and trader set-up access will be available from 6am on the day.

This will be a great new year opportunity to find those elusive spares for a stalled project, f ind a bike to restore or simply seek inspiration. For more details, call 01324 410519 or contact coordinator_vjmc@yahoo.co.uk).

113mph laps at new Silverstone?

Added: 18 March 2009

When the British round of the FIM MotoGP World Championship moves from Donington Park to Silverstone next year, the circuit will feature a spectacular new section of track running from the approach at Abbey corner to a tightening ‘arrowhead’ hairpin on the inside of Becketts.

The new circuit will measure 5.67km (0.53km longer than the present GP one) and mathematical simulations predict that the average lap time for MotoGP riders will be 1min 51.456sec, or 113mph. This will make it 3kph faster than Phillip Island, currently the fastest circuit in MotoGP.

Sales lifts for BMW & Royal Enfield

Added: 18 February 2009

Although total UK motorcycle registrations fell by somewhere between 3.4 and 5.3 per cent last year, depending on which version you believe, both BMW Motorrad UK and Royal Enfield enjoyed big year-on-year improvements.
There was a good reason why sales of the Royal Enfield Bullet went up by 30 per cent in 2008, for the tough Euro 3 emissions regulations brought an end to UK sales of the original iron-barrel 350cc and 500cc Bullets after 31 December, and there was a strong demand from customers taking advantage of the final chance to buy one of the ‘oldies’ that had remained virtually unchanged in almost half a century.

All new Royal Enfields sold in Europe this year will be fitted with the new and more powerful 500cc unit-construction fuel-injected engine whose 84 x 90mm bore and stroke still delivers an authentic ‘British single’ experience. Prices start at £3910 on the road for the new Electra EF1.

With 5850 bikes sold in the UK in 2008, BMW Motorrad enjoyed a 15 per cent year-on-year boost. Particularly impressive was the combined sale of 2411 for the R1200GS and its Adventure variant, the standard GS finishing slightly ahead at 1280.

BMW’s plans to appeal to a wider audience get a boost with four new models this year – the K1300R super naked, the K1300GT tourer, the sport touring K1300S and the F800R roadster.

Welcome 'comeback' for Moto Guzzi V7 classic

Added: 21 January 2009

The perfect pairing - V7 classic plus Watsonian GP Jubile

Four decades after sparking Italian enthusiasm for big-displacement V twin engines, Moto Guzzi has added a new chapter with the V7 Classic.

The 1967 V7 got its elegant looks from legendary designer Giulio Cesare Carcano, and after being first commissioned by the Italian police force, it quickly inspired a legion of new fans so production was stepped up accordingly.

The 744cc V7 Classic features special graphite low-wear pistons and an electronic Weber Marelli fuel injection system. The engine body and transmission are finished in black, and chrome rocker covers accentuate the aluminium alloy cylinders.

Braking is by a single 320mm Brembo floating disc at the front and a 260mm disc at the rear, and the V7 Classic’s 18in front and 17in rear wheel are fitted with high-profile tyres.

Although the engine has the same displacement as the last Moto Guzzi to bear the V7 badge, the 1972-74 750cc V7 Sport, the new machine has been styled to honour several variants from the model line of the 60s and 70s.

Although the instrumentation panel looks traditional, a modern digital display unit gives the time, external temperature and mileage readouts, while the chrome speedometer and rev counter maintain the classic style.

The exclusive body colour is Moon White, a lustrous pearl white accented with Moto Guzzi tank decals.

Following the announcement of the retro-styled V7 Classic, Watsonian-Squire has come up with a fitting kit to attach its GP range of sidecars to the 744cc V twin.

Quickly realising that the shaft-drive newcomer, with its tubular steel frame and torquey engine, would be ideally suited to sidecar work (just like its predecessor of over 40 years ago) the Blockley, Gloucestershire firm has wasted no time in providing the vital attachments, believing its GP sports sidecars are perfectly matched to the simple lines of the Italian bike.

Featuring glass-fibre body shells, MIG-welded perimeter steel frames, large spoked wheels and swinging arm suspension with hydraulic damping, the GP range retains the traditional octagonal nose shape dating from the 1920s, with hand-cut and polished alloy trim.

Demand for Watsonian sidecars, that have been in continuous production since 1912, has remained constant despite the worldwide credit crunch, with retro models proving the most popular. Prices for the GP range start at £2995 for the Manx.

For more details contact Watsonian-Squire (01386 700907; www.watsonian-squire.com).

Heidi’s ’59 Suzuki Colleda takes
top award

Added: 17 December 2008

Heidi’s ’59 Suzuki Colleda takes
top award

Voted best Jap bike at CMM Show

Heidi Cockerton’s 1959 125cc Suzuki Colleda was adjudged the best Japanese bike at the Classic & Motorcycle Mechanics Show at the Stafford Showground over the weekend of 18-19 October, and the best British bike was Graham Bowen’s 1965 Triumph TR6 SR – but it was a diminutive 1955 98cc Ducati of C Stocton that took the top Continental honours.

£1.1m Stafford sale

Added: 17 December 2008

Vincent record-breaker that never was makes £221,500

Well over £1-million was realised at the Bonhams-conducted annual sale at the Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show at Stafford on Sunday 19 October – and at a world record £221,500 the star was undoubtedly the supercharged Vincent Black Lightning that was commissioned by Reg Dearden in 1949 to challenge the then world record speed of 173.54mph.

The fabled Black Lightning (of which only 30 or so were ever made) was returned to the factory for extensive modifications including the fitting of a purpose-built supercharger, and the machine was then stored awaiting the right opportunity to lift the record. Sadly, this never happened, and the bike passed unridden through the hands of two enthusiasts to the vendor, a Texan collector, who entered it into the Bonhams sale in totally original condition.

A trio of racing motorcycles also sold well – an ex-Johnny Lockett 1936 350cc Norton International that went for £36,700, way above the 24,000-£28,000 estimate; an ex-Derek Powell 1961 AJS 7R that realised £26,450; and a 1962 495cc Marsh MR4 that shattered its £15,000-£18,000 estimate with a sale price of £26,450.

Other sales successes included a 1902 2hp Raleigh (£29,900); 1926 490cc Norton Model 18 (£21,850); 1938 499cc BSA Gold Star KM24 (£21,850); 1938 998cc Ariel Square Four Model G (£18,975); 1939 597cc BMW R66 (£14,950); 1947 500cc Moto Guzzi Dondolino Replica (£21,275); 1961 500cc Manx Norton ‘Special’ (£12,650); 1977 MV Agusta 750S America (£23,000); 1977 Honda CB400F2 (£4830); 1997 500cc Bimota V-Due (£6900) and 2007 Confederate B120 Wraith (£38,900).

Royal Enfield’s Green Machine

Added: 15 October 2008

Unit construction fuel-injected engines for Royal Enfield in 2009

Royal Enfield has developed a brand new fuel-injected engine that will be fitted to all new models for 2009.

Tough Euro 3 regulations require reduced carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon and nitrogen emissions, so Royal Enfield designed a completely new unit construction engine, with electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter in the silencer.

Until now Royal Enfield motorcycles had a separate gearbox, but the new design combines it in the engine casing, which makes it lighter and more efficient. Power is increased to 27.5 BHP in standard form with 41.3Nm of torque at 4000rpm, and the pushrod construction, with a bore of 84mm and 90mm stroke, still delivers an authentic-feeling ‘British Single’ experience.

First to appear in the UK will be the Electra EFI, which will be similar in appearance to the previous Electra model, but with UCE engine and a catalytic converter in the exhaust. The 500cc single-cylinder motor already has a formidable reputation for low fuel consumption and now with reduced emissions it becomes an even greener transport choice.

British riders will have an opportunity to view the new Electra EFI up close at the NEC Bike Show (28 November-7 December) and initial shipments are expected to arrive in the UK to coincide with the show launch.

Contact 01386 700907 or visit www.royal-enfield.com

Hailwood’s heroics

Added: 16 September 2008

Mike Hailwood is one of the true greats of motorcycle racing and his exploits at the Isle of Man TT are the stuff of legend.
Now you can relive two of his greatest Senior TT victories, complete with roaring engine notes and rare interviews, in the latest CD releases from Duke.
Each of these new titles, TT 1963 and TT 1964, features digitally remastered recordings of highlights from the world-famous Isle of Man racing festival. Originally released on vinyl as part of the Stanley Schofield Sound Stories collection, these wonderful recordings – the latest additions to the collectable series of classic TT reviews on CD – capture the evocative sounds, atmosphere and magic of this unique event.
The now legendary 'Voice of Motorsport' Murray Walker interviews the stars of the day and provides the commentary as the drama and action of each race is brought into your home.

You can close your eyes and let the roaring engines transport you back to the 1960s, with the fabulous sounds of four cylinder Hondas, MVs and Gileras, two stroke Suzukis, single cylinder AJSs, Nortons and Matchless, twin cylinder Jawas, BMW sidecars and many more conjuring up images of a golden era of motorcycle racing. You’ll hear these marvellous machines at full chat as they pass the landmarks of the world-famous TT circuit, with Walker charting the race action as it unfolds.
Among the historic moments captured are the incredible Hailwood’s awesome MV victory in 1963 and his race-winning performance one year later, despite being on his sickbed with a fever just two days before the race.

In addition to the amazing Senior TT success of Hailwood, who went on to notch up 14 TT wins, you will experience Jim Redman’s extraordinary victories, record-breaking races, the dramatic return of Gilera, the ongoing battle between Suzuki and Honda and much, much more. Among the sporting legends interviewed are Hailwood, Redman, Phil Read, Hugh Anderson, Luigi Taveri, Tommy Robb, John Hartle, Max Deubel, Derek Minter and many others. The wonderful exhaust notes, commentary and interviews are not only a vintage treat, but bring you all the drama and action of a festival of truly thrilling racing.
TT 1963 and 1964 CDs are available now, priced at £14.99, from leading video outlets or direct from Duke Video:
Tel 01624 640000,
fax 01624 640001 or
email mail@dukevideo.com
Visit www.dukevideo.com online.