BE A PILLION-CARRYING LEGEND
Expert tips for even safer, swift and enjoyable two-up riding
NEW BIKES
BRITAIN’S
ALL-NEW BSA 10 BEST
GOLD STAR
Does it live up to the name?
KAWASAKI H2 SX SE
Reality of the world’s only
supercharged sports tourer NAKEDS
PRODUCT TEST
TWO-PIECE Top unfaired bikes rated for SEPTEMBER
2022 £5.20
AUGUST 10 —
SEPTEMBER 14
LEATHERS performance, value… and fun!
Big sellers tested
back-to-back
BEST-BUY TOOLS, ROYAL ENFIELD
INTERCEPTOR
HELMETS AND BOOTS Affordable and
beautiful
GREAT ROUTES
HEREFORDSHIRE
& THE MALVERNS
An unsung biking paradise
INVESTIGATION KTM 1290 YAMAHA
XSR900
ARE POTHOLES SUPER DUKE R Cool retro looks,
Nothing else has
GETTING WORSE? the grunt or drama astounding
handling
We grill the powers that be…
Ducati.com
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40
Stunning countryside close
to the Welsh border
FEATURES
40 The Big Ride
A gentle loop around the Wye Valley
and the foothills of the Malvern Hills
48 Britain’s top-ten nakeds
Celebrating fairing-free motorcycling
with our favourite naked bikes
64 Pillion-carrying guide 64
RiDE columnist and Rapid Training
coach Ryan runs through the basics Keep your pillion
happy with riding
for keeping a pillion happy coach Ryan’s advice
FRONT END NEW BIKES
06 Your rides FIRST RIDES 26
Where you’ve been this month
26 BSA Gold Star
10 My favourite ride Does it live up to its name?
Mellow South Downs loop 28 Benelli
14 Leoncino 800 Trail
14 Investigation
Why are our roads so bad? Close but no ride-by-wire
16 Month in bikes 18 Letters 28 Piaggio MP3
530 HPE Exclusive
New Suzukis on the way 57 years is a real tool test 29 Five things you
44bhp and heavier than a GS
20 Ask the lawyer need to know about...
Injury claim set too low 30 Lovely Bimota KB4
22 Ask the BIG QUESTIONS
riding coach ANSWERED
How to ride in a group 30 Kawasaki
10 55, 107 Subscribe Ninja H2 SX SE
Is a 197bhp sports tourer still
Get RiDE for £4 a month relevant on British roads?
4 SEPTEMBER 2022
28
BIKES IN
THIS ISSUE
26 BSA Gold Star
28 Benelli Leoncino 800 Trial
28 Piaggio MP3 530 HPE Exclusive
29 Bimota KB4
30 Kawasaki H2 SX SE
50 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
52 BMW R nineT
52 Suzuki GSX-S1000
53 Triumph Trident 660
53 Kawasaki Z900RS
54 Ducati Monster
56 Yamaha MT-10
57 Triumph Street Triple RS
58 Royal Enfield Interceptor
60 Yamaha XSR900
96 BMW S1000RR
100 Yamaha Ténéré World Raid
102 KTM 890 Duke
102 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT
104 Royal Enfield Interceptor
106 Yamaha FJR1300SP
54
SUBSCRIBE TO 48
RIDE FOR JUST 29
£4 A MONTH! Ten top nakeds, from
hyper to retro
See page 55 and 107
for details
RATED GARAGE
Latest Ruroc helmet tried 74 BUYING GUIDE 96
74 Latest kit rated
96 BMW S1000RR
plus lots more How to spot a brilliant
Bavarian sportsbike
76 High-mile test
4000 miles with Quad LONG-TERM
Lock’s phone mount TEST FLEET
THE 100 What we learned
PRODUCT TEST Our first 1000 miles on
78 Two-piece Yamaha’s Ténéré WR
leathers 78 102 The others 106
Six sets tested on the road
KTM 890 meets its sibling
86 Riding and Interceptor gets social
experience rated HIGH-MILE HERO
IAM RoadSmart skills
106 Yamaha FJR1300
90 Year’s best kit Bruce’s globetrotting
A year of product testing 90,000-mile bike
SEPTEMBER 2022 5
Been somewhere inspirational? Ridden
an amazing road? Email [email protected]
to tell us about your trip and your bike
Scotland
P I took my BMW R1250RS to
Scotland (again...) recently.
Stunning scenery, fabulous
roads, courteous drivers and
welcoming folks wherever we
went. There is so much to
discover and explore at home
in the UK. Tarun Sharma
Colditz, Germany
ü We had the most amazing
time recently riding from Carlisle
to Berlin via the ferry from
Newcastle, then off to southern
Poland, onto the stunning Czech
Republic and then back home
through Swiss Saxony, which is
just a bikers’ paradise! Here we
are in Colditz Square, just
before we escaped!
Martyn & Lindsey Slater
6 SEPTEMBER 2022
STAR PICTURE
Norway
o Working in Norway, I constantly see
fantastic roads and scenery with lots of
bikes enjoying them. So I decided to take
my Yamaha XJR1300 over with me
instead of flying. I live an hour north of
Inverness so it was quite a journey to
Newcastle, the ferry to Ijmuiden,
through the Netherlands to the ferry
from Denmark to Norway, then across
Norway from Langesund via the
mountain pass at Hemsedal (standing
snow in June while it was 20°C) and
finally to Bergen where I work. Leaving
on Wednesday afternoon, I arrived on
Sunday night after over 1500 miles and
with very stiff knees. Neil Robertson
Get your bike in
& win a BikeTrac system
Each month the Star Picture will win a BikeTrac
security tracker with a year’s BikeTrac
subscription. As well as helping recover your bike
if it is nicked, it logs journeys and gives live battery
voltage information, too.
How to send us your photos
Email your most inspirational biking photos to us at
[email protected] with ‘Your Rides’ in the subject
line. Please send us the original unedited photo file,
ideally at least five megapixels in size. And don’t
forget to include your full name, too.
Verdon Gorge, France Cheddar Gorge
o Here’s my old R1150GS Adventure p My wife Claire and I took a ride from
loaded up with camping gear and Essex to Western-super-Mare and then
having just passed 124,000 miles on on to Burnham-on-Sea, Barnstaple,
top of the Verdon Gorge a few weeks Westward Ho!, Wells and Wookey Hole
ago. I was on a tour from the Picos, before finishing in Cheddar Gorge.
through the Pyrenees and then home Terry Hope
via the French Alps and Switzerland.
Just over 3500 miles and the old girl
never missed a beat. Brian Croston
Ronda, Spain
P A quick pitstop on the A397 from Marbella
to Ronda (on hire bikes) with Rik and Wayne
on a Ténéré 700, MT-09 and MT-10. The
Ténéré was the star, which surprised us all.
We can also recommend carrying on to El
Burgo on the A366. Dave Johnson
Pyrenees
o My pal Graham and I recently spent two
magnificent weeks in the Pyrenees. On the
way to the top of a ski resort, we also came
across some horses in the road. The
Pyrenees are an amazing place that every
rider should visit. Roger Davies
SEPTEMBER 2022 7
YOUR RIDES
Ogmore-by-Sea, Wales
o A quick early morning ride took me to
Ogmore-by-Sea in South Wales. I’m so
lucky living in Cardiff; we have some
beautiful places within an hour’s ride
or less. Paul Bennett
Scotland
p Three of us did the NC500 in May and
it was stunning. May was a good time to
go, as traffic was minimal and the
weather mostly ok. If you haven’t done it
yet — you really should! Bill Carpenter
North Yorkshire Moors
o Here’s my Tracer 700 at the
Rosedale Millennium Cross,
having descended Heygate
Bank and then climbed up
Chimney Bank. No problem for
Whitley Bay my Yamaha but I’d never do it
P You can always be inspired by a on a cycle! Geoff Mackey
trip to the seaside. This is the
iconic Rendezvous Café in Whitley
Bay with my Moto Guzzi V7
basking in the sun. Steve Gregan
The Roaches, Staffordshire
ü Our beloved old bike having a break
Brittany, France while the wife and I take in the scenery
P Here’s mine and Mark’s Indians on the of the Roaches, off the A53 between
seafront in St Gilles-Croix-de-Vie during Leek and Buxton. I’ve lived in the
a ten-day, 1300-mile trip with partners Midlands all my life and I’m still finding
Sonya and Debbie. Tony Dunford new gems. Chris & Lynn Meads
8 SEPTEMBER 2022
AVAILABLE ON HAYABUSA, V-STROM 1050XT TOUR, V-STROM 1050XT, V-STROM 650XT, V-STROM 650, SV650, SV650X
DISCOVER MORE AT BIKES.SUZUKI.CO.UK/BUYINGPOWER
PCP and HP Finance off er applies to purchase of a new 2022 (M2) Hayabusa, V-Strom 1050XT Tour, V-Strom 1050XT, V-Strom 650XT, V-Strom 650, SV650 and SV650X only from
a participating Suzuki Dealership. Free Suzuki Genuine Accessories worth £500 are available with the purchase of the new 2022 (M2) V-Strom 1050XT Tour and V-Strom 1050XT.
There is no cash, credit or other alternative off ered in place of the Suzuki Genuine Accessories. Accessories are subject to availability. Fitting costs are not included and cannot
form part of the £500 free accessories off er. The motorcycle must be purchased and registered between 01/07/2022 and 30/09/2022 to qualify for both off ers. No minimum deposit
required. Credit is subject to status, UK residents aged 18 and over. Suzuki Financial Services Ltd, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff , CF10 5BH.
YOUR RIDES
MY FAVOURITE RIDE SOUTH DOWNS LOOP
‘The whole of
the South Downs
spread out in
front of you...’
RiDE reader Austin shows us
his Goodwood gallop
Words and pictures Kevin Raymond
LTHOUGH OUR OFFICIAL The Ride
route starts at Guildford, old Heading away from Cobham, it’s surprising
friend and RiDE reader Austin how quickly you come out of urban sprawl
A and I meet up near his home in and into pleasant, leafy suburbia – still SHOW US YOUR
Thames Ditton and head straight for the speed limits everywhere of course but it’s
services at Cobham for fuel and a chat. not horribly towny. Past Guildford and we ROUTE GET A
This is a bit of a blast from the past for both have a quick blast on the A3 just to clear GREAT PRIZE!
of us, as the last time we went for a ride the lungs a bit, then we’re onto the route Email [email protected] and tell us
and photos was in 1994, when we rode proper and into the Surrey Hills Area of about your favourite ride and if
some new Guzzis back to the UK from the Outstanding Natural Beauty. Lots of 50 published, you’ll get a great prize to
factory in Mandello de Lario, on the banks limits, trees either side, blind crests, twists say thanks. The Metzeler Roadtec 01
SE — winner of RiDE’s 2020 touring-
of Lake Como. Today’s going to be a bit and turns through manicured villages. As tyre test — is a great tyre that works
different — we won’t be going over the we trundle through Brook, I estimate if I in all conditions. www.metzeler.co.uk
Susten Pass into Switzerland this time, sold everything I own, I could just afford a
which is a shame but, then again, it’s not a down-payment on a short lease for a
white-out blizzard, so that’s a bonus... broom cupboard at the cricket pavilion.
10 SEPTEMBER 2022
THE FACTS
Distance 68 miles.
Best suited to Pretty
much anything with
some overtaking grunt.
Nearest big town
Chichester.
Famous for Space bloke Tim
Peake was born there. There is also the
Goodwood estate, with the equine
racecourse, the house that hosts the
Festival of Speed and the world-famous
Goodwood race circuit.
RiDE READER
AUSTIN COLLE
RiDE reader Austin has been riding since
the 70s ("I had a Honda CJ250 on HP and
fell off it in front of the salesman. Passed
my test on it at 17 and learned to ride
after that...") and has put his graphic-
design skills to good use in marketing and
advertising in the bike industry for over
30 years. He lives near Hampton Court
Palace but gets out into the country — and
all across Europe — on his beloved KTM
RC8R whenever he can
o On Kennel Hill, just north of
Goodwood, on the way
towards Singleton. Great
views from the top of the Hill
SEPTEMBER 2022 11
YOUR RIDES
p Not every day one
of these passes you
The towns and villages may be well Into Cocking — no tittering at the this close
cared-for but the road quality is variable. back... Lots of really old buildings; the
Austin’s avoiding the gravel and potholes soil is very chalky and where you get
which kick him out of his KTM’s minimal chalk, you get flint, so lots of houses
seat but which I can just ride over and round here are built with split flint as
barely notice on the sofa-soft Tiger. facing. Very distinctive.
Paradoxically, we look forward to the odd It gets twisty and up and downy as we
roadworks and temporary lights we come get near Goodwood racecourse. Austin
across — a good excuse to filter to the front stops at the viewpoint at the top of
of the queue and get a clear bit of road Kennel Hill — it’s one of his favourite
when they go green. spots and I can see why. “You’ve got the
The scenery’s changing now. There’s still whole of the South Downs spread out in
a whole lot of forest going on but it’s a front of you here,” he says.
contrast with the earlier woodland — Past the racecourse, we see signs to
rougher and less manicured. Aerodrome and Motor Circuit — that’s
The sun’s coming out and the dappled more like my kind of horsepower. We
light and shade through the trees is pretty, rumble through the tunnel under the track
but hard on the eyes, though not as hard as — there’s some car testing going on, so no p The Kennels, near
Goodwood. Evidently a
what comes next. As an atheist, I love a one’s going to mind us giving it a few posh dog round here...
good church but, in Midhurst, we ride past cheeky revs and enjoying the echoes.
the Divine Motherhood and St Francis of Into the Café, past a statue of legendarily
Assisi RC establishment, and my voice leg-deficient Battle of Britain pilot Douglas
recorder notes just dribble into expletives. Bader, who flew his last mission from
What were they thinking? here before ending up in Colditz. There
Back out on the 286, a flat, quick bit of are quite a few bikes parked up outside
road. Out of the woods for the moment, — it’s a popular spot evidently, although I
into fields and hedges. Got to put on your suspect they’ve been down to the south
quick overtakes where you can ‘cos there’s coast for an ice cream, rather than
a lot of double white lines so, when exploring the leafy lanes. We’ve not seen
opportunity does knock on the door, any bikes at all on the road so far.
you’ve got to open it quick. There are always lots of old vehicles
lurking about here but today, there’s a
Spitfire posing in one of the car parks —
Supermarine, not Triumph, in case you
were wondering. In polished raw
aluminium, you’d be forgiven for thinking
it’s a static display or even a replica but
G-IRTY is actually one of the most original
wartime Spits still flying, having survived
lots of combat missions during the war,
including at least one forced landing.
Any day with a Spitfire in it has to be a ü Entrance tunnel at
Goodwood. RC8R
P Emergency towing vehicles, Goodwood style good day but this one’s about to get better. exhaust sounded good...
Outside the café, just savouring the first hit
START/ FINISH
GUILDFORD of caffeine, and a two-seater Spitfire taxis
past just a few yards away, turns into the
wind and takes off directly in front of us –
some lucky person is getting the
experience of a lifetime. I’ve checked in the
TOP TIP lining of my jacket though, and
Lovely twisty road but look
out for side turnings and unfortunately haven’t come up with a
concealed driveways spare three grand for the ticket, so we’ll
have to make do with a bacon bap
(excellent, but then at £7.50 a throw so it
should be) and then we’re off again.
We’re away from Goodwood on a really
nice rolling road. Short bursts of fun, blast
past the car in front and a mile or so of give
Map data ©2022, Google DOWNLOAD be careful — lots of posh houses set back
it some, and then more traffic. You have to
from the road with concealed driveways,
THE ROUTE
and the last thing you’d want to do is spoil
www.ride.co.uk
a rich person’s day by smacking into the
12 SEPTEMBER 2022 side door of their Range Rover...
‘Any day with a
Spitfire in it has
to be a good day’
P Enjoying the rises and falls
and lefts and rights of Kennel
Hill, close to Goodwood
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Fancy galloping to Goodwood? Austin will set you right...
Best time of day pay a price like that in an upmarket venue like
to saddle up Goodwood. Also the White Horse in Midhurst
“Late Saturday afternoon or just off the 272. It’s a nice spot to meet for a
early Sunday morning. good coffee. It has plenty of outside seating.”
Through Loxwood — on a sunny day it’d Saturday mornings are out as
be nice to stroll along the canal banks here. people who don’t drive in the And remember...
“It’s all very stockbrokery,” says Austin. week turn out and don’t expect motorcycles.” “You can turn right or left pretty much
“But it is pretty.” It is too — chocolate box anywhere along this route and find quieter
villages, duck ponds, more cricket Best bit backroads if you just want to potter along and
pavilions. We pass a beautiful old timber “Petworth to Wisborough Green is excellent, if avoid the main roads. Be careful though;
and brick manor; no Victorian fakery here, there’s nothing on it. But everyone assumes there's open war between cyclists and cars.
this is the real deal. I remember my earlier it’s all traffic and 40 limits and stays away.” The 4x4s don’t have the patience and pull out
real-estate calculations and realise I have to overtake regardless of cars or motorcycles
to revise them downwards... Hold yer horses at... coming the other way.”
We’re winding down now. Coming into “After Petworth there’s a long straight (but
Guildford, it seems the budget for mowing with lots of side turnings) before a nice couple
verges and roundabouts has run out, and of curves, but there’s a dangerous junction
so has our time. Austin’s off back to that needs care. Aside from that it’s a bit
Thames Ditton and I have an appointment restricted because it’s the South East.”
with some beer down near Swindon.
“People say it’s too crowded here, he says.” Best place for a nosebag
“But if you have the right attitude, don’t “Goodwood Motor Circuit. Inside by the
hassle people — and don’t hassle yourself airfield, there’s coffee and a really nice
— it can still be a lot of fun.” breakfast for £11.25. You wouldn’t expect to Goodwood café; home to
He’s right, you know... possibly the UK’s most
expensive bacon baps
SEPTEMBER 2022 13
FRONT END
INVESTIGATES
JUST WHY
ARE UK ROADS
SO BAD?
Crumbling tarmac is nothing new for bikers but
what’s happening – and is it getting worse?
T’S AN ALL-TOO- again by cold weather and
FAMILIAR sight in motor vehicles.
modern motorcycling: “This situation can be
I You’re stitching together blamed largely on funding,”
a stream of flowing bends on Lyes added. “Until there is a
your favourite back-road proper strategic plan
blast and then bang! You’ve matched by long-term
run over a massive pothole funding, we are concerned
and spend the next five miles the pothole problem will
worrying about the risk of simply get worse.”
bent rims, popped tyres, and Nick’s comments are
knackered headstocks. supported by the Annual
Anyone who’s ridden a bike Local Authority Road
in Britain will have had a run- Maintenance (ALARM) report
in with one of these pesky for 2022 conducted by the
road craters, with some Most pothole repairs are a sticking plaster over the problem Asphalt Industry Alliance,
encounters resulting in which states the total paid in
damage to riders, as well as ‘Until there is a proper road-user compensation
their pride and joy. claims came to £8.9 million
However, with local- plan, the problem will across England and Wales,
authority budgets ever with 78% of that relating
tightening, more frequent simply get worse’ specifically to potholes.
extreme weather brought on Speaking in a summary of
by climate change, and a NICK LYES, RAC the 2022 report, alliance
greater volume of vehicles chair Rick Green said:
pulling onto our roads, are “Against a backdrop of
we now experiencing more or stayed the same in the ‘fill in’ a pothole without increased costs caused by
pothole problems than ever? previous 12-month period, addressing the underlying rising inflation, the message
well over half (58%) said they surface defects that are from this year’s ALARM
What’s causing
Words Dan Sutherland the problems? with potholes being the to break up,” he continued. responsible for maintaining
causing that section of road
felt they had deteriorated
research is clear: those
primary reason for this,”
“Filling in potholes often only
“When asked whether
our local roads are fast
acts as a temporary sticking
approaching the point where
Head of Roads Policy at the
drivers felt the condition and
plaster and the road can
maintenance of local roads
RAC, Nick Lyes, said.
they are drowning.
“They have a legal
had improved, deteriorated,
“Local authorities will often
often become churned up
14 SEPTEMBER 2022
‘IT HAPPENED TO ME’
One of the many yards, so I pulled out, did the
riders affected by overtake, then as I pulled back
potholes is Neil into my lane, I heard this bang.
Adair, 52, from And that was it.
Dumfries and “They took me to Stranraer
Galloway, who came off his hospital and X-rayed and
Honda Fireblade while on a ride scanned me and found that I had
out with friends in June 2019. a cracked hip and a broken
Neil hit a pothole on the A77 in finger on my left hand, where
Scotland, which already has a the bars must’ve come right
reputation for potholes. round and smashed my fingers
Speaking about the incident, against the tank,” he continued.
he said: “I went to overtake a The hole was filled in shortly
couple of cars. I had plenty of after the incident.
vision for about 500 or 600
Potholes are all
motorists’ nemesis —
look ahead and avoid
responsibility to keep our years of solid repairs to get
roads safe, but flat funding our roads back in order. The remains of Neil’s
allocations to carriageway “If you look at the projected Blade after hitting a
pothole in an overtake
maintenance in real terms lifetime of a highway, you’d
— and rising costs — means really expect to be
they have to make difficult resurfacing that maybe once prevent potholes forming in network), to test whether it
choices about keeping their every 20 years. Local- the first place. could prolong the lifespan of
networks open and safe authority roads, we’re now “What’s needed is a the road and reduce the
today, versus improving looking at being resurfaced longer-term funding horizon frequency of potholes.
structural resilience for today once every 70 years,” to help authorities plan with “Safety is also our primary
and tomorrow.” Director of the Asphalt more confidence and drive concern and we set stringent
This has led to the reported Industry Alliance, greater efficiencies. Planned, standards for pothole repairs
backlog of carriageway Dr Ian Lancaster added. preventative maintenance on our roads,” Executive
repairs that increased by Tarmac’s National Technical has previously been Director for Operations,
almost a quarter on the Director, Brian Kent, also estimated to be 20 times Duncan Smith said.
previous year’s figure, to spoke to RiDE and said: more cost-effective per The organisation also
£12.64bn. That’s the “While extreme weather square metre than reactive claims almost £2 billion is
equivalent of £75.7 million for conditions can exacerbate work, such as patching and being spent on resurfacing
every local authority in pothole formation, a greater filling potholes.” between 2020 and 2025 and,
England and Wales and — focus on planned, since April 2015, over 7000
should the funding magically preventative maintenance to So what’s being miles have been worked on,
become available — it’s the UK’s road network is done about it? averaging 1200 per year.
estimated it would take nine needed and would Despite funding difficulties,
ALARM data also shows a So are things
pothole is filled the equivalent getting worse?
AFFECTED BY of every 19 seconds in It would seem so. Sadly
1/5 POTHOLES England and Wales. — much like the rest of
modern society — there isn’t
Elsewhere, National
A recent poll conducted by our insurance partners at MCN Compare Highways (formerly Highways enough money in the pot to
revealed one-in-five motorcyclists claim to have had an accident or England) began trialling the fix the problem properly and
sustained damage to their bike as a result of hitting a pothole. use of graphene on some if we want this blight on
Just over 1000 respondents were questioned, with surfaces across the 4300 bikers to come to an end,
of those answering also agreeing there were a lot motorway and major A-road authorities need to have a
of potholes in their area and almost half strongly
79% agreeing with the statement, too. miles it controls last year serious rethink on budget
(around 2% of the national prioritisation.
SEPTEMBER 2022 15
FRONT END MONTH IN BIKES
Suzuki: ‘New bikes are on the way’
SUZUKI GB’S DIRECTOR of those rumours are true and motorcycle to arrive in the “I can't talk about future
Motorcycles, Paul de might say that, but when I UK was the latest models that might come
Lusignan, has shrugged off talk to our dealers and I talk GSX-R1000, back in 2017. specifically, but generally
rumours that the Japanese to our staff, most people This now looks set to what I would say is we're
brand is planning to exit the don't feel that,” he told RiDE. change though, with de aware of the changes in the
two-wheeled market, Excluding the addition of Lusignan claiming the money market,” he continued. “And
promising new platforms and two new 125cc scooters, the and resources saved by not the move away from
model updates are on the firm’s latest large-capacity racing will go into developing sportsbikes to adventure
way. As well as pulling out of range updates — including the fresh future motorcycles. bikes and the popularity of
MotoGP, the firm has just Hayabusa, GSX-S1000 range, Although refusing to be middleweight bikes — we're
announced leaving the World Katana, and V-Strom 1050 — drawn on exactly where that aware of that and we will be
Endurance championship have all been updates to past expertise would be used, the developing models that will
after many titles. models. The last fully 53-year-old did confirm appeal to customers. You will
“I can understand why redeveloped existing Suzuki would be moving into see bikes in markets we're
some customers may think large-capacity Suzuki fresh markets. not currently in.”
‘You’ll see bikes in Latest V-Strom
markets we’re not in’ new
an update, not
PAUL DE LUSIGNAN, SUZUKI GB
Money saved by pulling
out of racing will go into
product development
Triumph shows electric Speed Triple
Triumph has announced the experience on combustion- exceeded expectation. This
end of its TE-1 electric engined bikes,” Chief Product includes a 100-mile range on
motorcycle development Officer, Steve Sargent told a mixture of A-roads and
programme by producing an RiDE. “But, quite clearly, the motorways with regenerative
aggressive 175bhp naked world is moving to electric, braking on hand to extend the
capable of hitting 100mph and we wanted a vehicle to battery capacity.
faster than a petrol-engined not just build our knowledge Triumph also says it will do
Speed Triple 1200RS. but also show our expertise a full trackday session at
However, the TE-1 will in developing something fast-group speeds, with a
never go into production, completely fresh.” 0-80% recharge time of 20
instead serving as an The TE-1 has been designed minutes. The bike weighs
educational tool to allow the to share the ergonomics, 220kg — 22 kilos more than a
Hinckley firm to produce feel, and weight distribution fuelled Speed Triple but 4.5kg
viable electric motorcycles of the existing 1200RS less than Ducati’s V21L Electric
for future production. supernaked and Triumph prototype, developed for ‘Speed Triple’
could do a trackday
“We’ve got decades of says its figures have 2023’s MotoE race series.
16 SEPTEMBER 2022
Radar cruise control
may reach new Tracer
REAL
BIKERS.
New Tracer 9 is
ready for radar
Yamaha’s popular almost identical to the
Tracer 9 GT looks set to bike already on sale.
undergo another Noticeable is a new REAL
refresh for 2023, with black box hanging
spy shots showing a above the front wheel.
bike fitted with radar Not seen on the
cruise control and a current production
more conventional TFT model, it suggests the
colour dash. use of radar-controlled
Papped in early July, cruise control in the LAWYERS.
the Japanese three- future — already on
cylinder test mule looks some of its rivals.
REAL
Ducati’s new
310cc single-cylinder
RR on its way...
electric racer
Ducati has released fresh
technical details of its 2023
MotoE racer, which looks set
to provide the development
data for plug-in production ANSWERS.
bikes of the future. Dubbed
BMW’s new the V21L, the finished bike
A2 sportster will be the sole machine used
in the 2023 MotoE World Cup,
Ever since BMW revealed with an 18-strong grid.
plans to make a range of The electric racer boasts a
small single-cylinder bikes in claimed weight of 224.5kg, a
partnership with India’s TVS peak power figure of 148bhp
(also owners of Norton) in and 103lb·ft of torque. It’s
2013, there have been achieved just shy of 171mph
whispers of a baby RR on track. Ducati is claiming
sportsbike. And now, an 45 minutes to recharge to
A2-licence friendly G310RR 80% capacity and has used bike specialist solicitors since ‘94
has been announced in India chassis technology from its
with a global release looking combustion-engined
likely for later this year. superbike range.
The TVS Apache RR310
was revamped in 2020,
gaining improved emissions
to meet India’s BS6 (and
Europe’s Euro5) limits, and
optional adjustable
suspension, lower clip-ons
and raised ’pegs. The whitedalton.co.uk
branding change means the
G310RR has access to P MotoE follows success of 0800 7836 191
BMW’s dealer network. FomulaE for electric motorsport
They’re great courses and
I implore everyone to learn
Email [email protected] first aid. Sadly I think it’ll
always be hard to attract
Write to us RiDE, Media House, younger riders to do courses
Lynchwood, Peterborough PE2 6EA
like this. By the way, we’ve
reviewed a great mini biking
first-aid kit on p75. It’s only
£15 but could be a real help
in a smash. MW
LETTER OF THE MONTH ‘It’s all about the eye
‘RiDE’s bench Loving Ryan’s work in Ask
The Riding Coach and
isn’t a TRUE following on from his subject
of car SMIDSYs at junctions,
long-term test! in addition to the physical
structure of a car (wide A
and B-pillars stuffed with
After reading the long-term test in the July airbags behind which we
issue about editor Matt’s 15-year-old disappear), that 0.6 seconds
workbench, I thought I’d show you this average scan time for a
Snap-On tool chest l bought in 1965 during driver is crucial.
my apprenticeship. It’s followed me to Visual processing is a
every workplace l have been to and also ü Roland’s time- fascinating subject which
done lots of hard work in the Seventies served tool chest is continues to reveal
when l was racing sidecars. Now retired, older than the average surprises. The known aspect
age of a RiDE reader!
like me, to my small workshop at home, it of saccades, where visual
is still in use keeping my Honda and Enfield processing is actually
in good order. I have been riding nearly 60 inhibited during eye
years and that tool chest is 57 years-old That’s superb Roland and looks like it movement, means that we
and showing a little wear — but so am l. could last another 57 years as well. effectively spend up to 15%
Regards to all the team. Products ed Jim has the same topbox but of our waking day blind.
Roland Stevens it’s a young ‘un, at just 31 years old. MW This is compounded by the
recent discovery that the
process of seeing the world
RIDE’S STAR LETTER is now thought to work in the
WINS AN OXFORD opposite sense to that which
MINT CLEANING was previously accepted. We
BUNDLE WORTH £35 don’t see everything and try
The MINT range is split into to make sense of it; rather,
CLEAN, DETAIL, MAINTAIN and we already have a pre-
we’re kicking off CLEANING. formed mental model of what
www.oxfordproducts.com we are expecting, and then
process the differences
between that and the outside
‘All riders should world to build a (supposedly)
learn first aid’ ‘full’ picture.
Being an older biker, I thought The final killer for two-
it time to enrol on a Biker wheelers is spatial bias. This
Down morning course, new area of research
though course isn’t the best suggests that, as
word. It’s an informative westerners, we are
session, learning how to help conditioned to look left first
and perhaps save another because that’s where we
biker who’s had a spill. start reading anything. Not
Anyway, I wasn’t surprised such an issue in countries
the class of 20 had mostly where they drive on the right
middle-aged riders, to ones Biker Down course is but a potential problem here
almost past adulthood, if you essential first-aid that in the UK. How many times
all bikers should know
get my drift. No younger have you seen a car cruise
members of the hobby up to a junction and you are
attended yet surely, they hours could save a biker’s life way of getting a blanket looking at the back of the
need teaching as much as we so wouldn’t it be of benefit to cover on first aid in our driver’s head? In Arabic-
mature riders. add it to the riding test? It biking community? reading countries, the
What I learned in three seems it might be the only Andy Jones opposite is thought to be
18 SEPTEMBER 2022
GET IN
Are we
beginning to TOUCH
prioritise form
over function? EDITORIAL
www.ride.co.uk
Editor Matt Wildee
[email protected]
Head of publishing, motorcycling/art editor
Steve Herbert-Mattick
[email protected]
Product editor Jim Blackstock
[email protected]
Editorial assistant Colleen Moore
[email protected]
CONTRIBUTORS
Alan Cathcart, Jason Critchell, Simon Hargreaves,
Jim Moore, Michael Neeves, Kev Raymond,
Adam Shorrock, Jon Urry, Phil West, John
‘Are we all biking soapbox, how often do Westlake, Chippy Wood
ADVERTISING
fashion victims?’ owners talk about Commercial director Gareth Ashman
I’ve been riding for screens that look neat Head of key accounts Shaun Collin
more years than I care but do anything but the Classified Rebecca Jackson
to remember and I’ve intended job? And why MARKETING
Marketing manager Sarah Norman
more than once bought are chain-drive bikes Product marketing manager Hope Ekins
my next bike with my so rarely fitted with a PRODUCTION
heart, rather than my centrestand; a one- Print production
head; it’s part of it. time essential that may [email protected]
However, Stuart spoil a bike’s looks? Printed by Walstead, Peterborough
Staples’ letter (RiDE Barrie Lynn Distributed by Frontline
MANAGEMENT
August) makes me Group editor, motorcycling Andy Calton
wonder if we might all All good points Publisher, consumer cars and
be fashion victims? Barrie. I can’t help but motorcycling Rachael Beesley
Stuart complained think manufacturers Managing director, motorcycling Niall Clarkson
Editorial director June Smith-Sheppard
about bikes he’s ridden skimp on OE parts so Chief Financial Officer,
recently where the you can buy their Bauer Magazine Media Lisa Hayden
saddles were literally a accessories. When it CEO, Bauer Publishing UK Chris Duncan
pain in the a**e. It’s come to pain, it’s worth SUBSCRIPTIONS
hardly surprising when remembering everyone For the best subscription offers visit
www.greatmagazines.co.uk
you look at so many feels it differently and For subscription or back issue queries please
current bikes, where to different extents, so contact CDS Global on [email protected]
Phone from the UK on 01858 438884
the ‘saddle’ looks little some of the bikes Phone from overseas on +44 (0)1858 438884
more like a thinly- Stuart has been in pain SYNDICATION
padded plank! on, you or I might be [email protected]
And while on this fine. MW REGISTERED ADDRESS
H Bauer Publishing is a company registered in England
and Wales with company number LP003328, registered
address Academic House, 24-28 Oval Road, London,
NW1 7DT. VAT no 918 5617 01.
Looking out for could see a Tesla going up a H Bauer Publishing is authorised and regulated
by the FCA (Ref No. 845898).
bikers may have a one-way lane the wrong way. CONTRIBUTIONS
cultural basis The driver could see the RiDE welcomes contributions but accepts no
responsibility for unsolicited material. Submission of
electric-vehicle charging pictures is taken as permission to publish them in the
points and was not looking in magazine or on the RiDE website.
my direction as he COMPLAINTS
approached give-way H Bauer Publishing Ltd is a member of the Independent
Press Standards Organisation (www.ipso.co.uk) and
markings at a T-junction. endeavours to respond to and resolve your concerns
quickly. Our Editorial Complaints Policy (including full
Despite a thumb-full of details of how to contact us about editorial complaints
horn, he still didn’t wake up and IPSO’s contact details) can be found at
www.bauermediacomplaints.co.uk.
true. In the Far East where, in and he went charging All material published remains the copyright of Bauer, no
some cultures, reading starts (excuse the pun) for some part of the magazine may be reproduced in any form in
whole or in part, without the prior permission of Bauer.
from the top, neither is the juice across my path. The car Whilst every reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy,
case! It’s up to us to look would have hit me if I hadn’t the publisher is not responsible for any errors or
after ourselves/each other. been covering my brakes omissions, nor do we accept any liability for any loss or
damage, however caused, resulting from the use of the
Austen Clifford anticipating what he was magazine.
going to do. THIS ISSUE
‘Watch out for Battery anxiety used to be September 2022 issue on sale in UK shops from
August 10 to September 14 2022.
electric drivers in a mobile-phone thing in the © 2022 Bauer Media. ISSN 1360-3507
need of volts’ old days; now it leads to EV
Today I was in the Cambridge drivers desperately seeking
Services car park on the A14 some amps and doing silly
doing about 10 mph on my things. Beware!
Triumph Speed Twin 1200. I Dr Graham Maile
ASK THE
LAWYER
with Andrew Dalton, White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors
‘My injury case
won’t cover future
loss of earnings.
What can I do?’ P Andrew Dalton, ex-dispatch
Q I THINK I may have made a A I AM NOT rider, is a solicitor-advocate
and barrister with 20 years’
experience with bikers
terrible mistake. I had a
surprised no
motorcycle accident four years solicitor would pull
ago. At first it seemed I had soft-tissue you out of the fire. You went for a free you to change your case, just
injuries. I phoned a couple of solicitors solicitor and as another observed, you before trial, by a factor of maybe ten,
who seemed keen to help but some got what you paid for. Sorry to sound the insurers will only have to meet the
were charging up to 25% of my injury cruel but the “free” solicitor — actually an case before the Court — a £25,000 case
money and out-of-pocket losses, so I unqualified clerk — has zero self interest with no future loss of earnings.
went with one recommended by my in pursuing your claim. He has made his Your case is due to be heard by a
motorcycle shop; no 25% and I got a hire money from the hire bike. The solicitors District Judge — the most junior rank of
bike to run around on. who were taking 25% actually had some civil Judge — which are skilled and
I do a fairly physical job which involves skin in the game. experienced lawyers but they will deal
a lot of overhead work and the soft- The only thing you can do — and I am with your ‘fast track’ case quickly. Your
tissue injury to my shoulder has become going to get a bit technical here — is case is now the sort traditionally heard
worse. However, my solicitors started amend your updated schedule of loss. by a Circuit Judge, typically the next
this case in the sub-£25,000 level and Your pretend lawyer will need to get rung of promotion for a District Judge
my treating surgeon (and the surgeon either a barrister or a qualified solicitor and with so much more at stake, your
instructed in my case) have said I have to do this. This means your case will be case now will need expert witnesses in
nerve and tendon damage which makes put on the basis of your not being able court to be cross examined and will
working overhead difficult and painful. to continue in your work. Expect push probably take three days. The Judge, I
I am more than 20 years away from a back from the insurers, who may well can tell you, will not be impressed by a
pension and my shoulder will not stand be asking; ‘If your shoulder is so change of value four years after the
up to much more work. I have contacted knackered, why did you need a hire injury and 18 months after you had your
some of the original solicitors who now motorcycle?’ and ‘Why are we only medical report saying your employment
will not touch my case. My current hearing about this loss of earnings less was compromised — which was before
solicitors seem disinterested in pursuing than six months before the trial and four you even started your case in court.
my future loss of earnings and are years post injury?’. The Judge might well I am not optimistic the court will allow
blaming me for not raising it — even be intrigued but the trial judge is not you to suddenly change your case with
though the medical evidence originally bound by the cap you put on your case. information you knew about and your,
produced by a bored GP said if I had He or she will hear the evidence and ahem, solicitor, failed to understand. You
shoulder problems after four months I decide what your case is worth. should tell them to put forward your
needed to get a surgeon to look it over However, if you greatly increase the future loss of earnings, drafted by a real
— which in fairness, they did after a year. value of your claim — a partial loss of lawyer — in writing — and if they do not,
That surgeon described my working earnings for a 40-something skilled man or the judge throws it out for procedural
ability as significantly compromised and is going to put the case well into six reasons (which is likely) then you are
my solicitors still commenced the case figures, not five — this will cause you looking at a negligence action against
below £25k. Is there a way out of this? problems. If the Judge does not allow your current advisers.
White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors have been dealing with
motorcycle claims since 1997 and are well recognised experts in
the field. All of their lawyers ride — they get company bikes, not
company cars. www.whitedalton.co.uk
20 SEPTEMBER 2022
KISKA.COM
Photo: R.Schedl
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ASK THE
RIDING COACH
With Rapid Training Coach Ryan Decarteret
‘I’m worried about
riding with a group
of faster riders.
What can I do?’
Q I’VE RECENTLY JOINED a local providing everyone P Having spent seven years as a surveillance
rider with the National Crime Agency, Ryan
bike club and a few of the guys
knows what they’re
Decarteret is one of Britain’s most-skilled,
have invited me to join them on doing, and it can be safest and most qualified road riders
a ride-out. I have to admit I’m a bit fantastic fun.
nervous and have ducked out so far Tip number one is don’t ride with loads based on what you
because I’m worried I’ll be tempted to of people you don’t know. You don’t say can see for yourself.
ride too fast for my own good. how many bikes will be on the ride but, if With most groups, it’s generally the
it’s more than half a dozen, be wary — person at the back who has to travel
A FIRSTLY, YOU’RE RIGHT to have the potential for mayhem increases with fastest because they’ll inevitably miss
an overtake and then have to catch up.
numbers. Also, trust your instincts. If
a few nerves because group
riding can be dodgy — it adds a the guys you’ve met seem sensible, It’s these people who are most likely to
layer of complexity to a ride and, if you that’s a good start. Some clubs offer crash, not Mr Speedy out in front. So if
don’t manage that sensibly, it can end in different levels of ride-out — novice, fast you’re at the back, be prepared to let the
tears. However, there’s nothing etc — so it’s worth asking about that. group go and enjoy your ride. On
inherently dangerous about group riding Another good sign is if one of the national speed limit roads, it’s worth
group sets some ground rules before leaving a decent gap anyway to make
the ride, because problems often arise sure you ride the road rather than just
p Group rides can be
great fun with a few when it’s a free-for-all. If people are follow the rider ahead. Once you get into
key tips desperately trying to keep up and riders 30 limits, close up and ride staggered so
are overtaking each other all over the there’s more chance of you all getting
place, it’s a recipe for disaster. through traffic lights in one go.
The first thing you can do to reduce The last tip is to always keep the bloke
your risks is to take responsibility for behind you in your mirrors. And if you
knowing where you’re going. That way can’t see him, don’t turn off until he’s in
there’s no pressure to keep up — you’ll sight — just wait at the junction until he
just turn up a couple of minutes after the appears. That way, none of the group
others (who probably won’t even notice, gets lost and people don’t feel
to be honest). pressured to ride too fast. We use this
The second thing to do is ask what the on Rapid’s courses and we’ve never lost
rules are for overtaking each other. anyone. It’s very easy.
You’re looking for a system to be in place And finally, it’s useful to approach
— either no overtaking while riding or group riding with the right mindset.
only via invitation (eg, you wave Consider it a social event rather than a
someone by). Anything else can be thrash, with more stops, more chatting
risky. Having intercoms can be a laugh and far lower average speeds. Do that,
but never use them to get advice on and remember to always ride your own
overtakes — always make your own call ride, and you’ll have a ball. Enjoy!
The Rapid team includes TT racers, a BSB squad, and police and surveillance riders. They are
the most highly qualified professionals in the business and their unique, no-nonsense courses
are designed to help riders be the best they can be. More info at www.rapidtraining.co.uk
22 SEPTEMBER 2022
GO BEYOND
RIDE FACTORY
AVAILABLE WITH 5.9% APR
REPRESENATIVE FINANCE.
At Aprilia showrooms and on APRILIA.COM
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maximum 36 month term. Minimum 10% customer deposit required. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants
must be 18 or over. Guarantee may be required. Santander Consumer Finance, RH1 1SR
In showrooms and on aprilia.com
FIRST RIDES
26 BSA Gold Star
Iconic name re-engineered SUBSCRIBE TO
28 Benelli Leoncino RIDE FOR JUST
800 Trail 30 £4 A MONTH!
Not bad but needs refinement See page 55 and 107
for details
Is a 197bhp
sports tourer
still relevant?
28 Piaggio MP3 530
Stand-up scooter is weighty
29 Five things you
need to know...
Bimota’s lovely KB4
BIG QUESTIONS
ANSWERED
30 Kawasaki
Ninja H2 SX SE
Is it too much for British roads?
SEPTEMBER 2022 25
NEW BIKES
FUEL TANK
Shaped to mimic the old Goldstar
DBD34, the 12-litre tank is chromed
and painted. BSA claims 70.6mpg
and 186-mile range. Fuel cap is
DASHBOARD engraved with BSA logo
The BSA’s dials contain
warning lights and indicators,
although they’re tricky to see
in bright sunlight
SEAT
Plush bench seat is detailed with a
Union Jack tag and an embossed BSA
logo on the back. It’s comfy, roomy
and low enough for low-speed
confidence
FIRST RIDE BSA GOLD STAR
BSA goes for the THE FACTS
gold standard Price £6500
Engine 652cc DOHC single cylinder, 4v
per cyl, l/c
Power 45bhp @ 6500rpm
Reborn Brit legend comes back as Indian- Transmission Five-speed, chain
Torque 41lb·ft @ 4000rpm
built Royal Enfield Interceptor rival Fuel capacity 12 litres
Seat height 780mm
Wheelbase 1425mm
SA’S NEW £6500 Gold Star is an until the first bikes hit dealers before we
unpretentious, 45bhp single can ride it on the road. Kerb weight 213kg (claimed)
roadster designed to deliver the The first thing you feel is the BSA’s bulk Rider aids ABS
B simple pleasure of riding. (it weighs 213kg fully fuelled) and through
Like the BSA Goldstar DBD34 it’s inspired fast, bumpy corners the bars are busy in
by, it’s a certified member of the ton-up your hands as the suspension attempts to Ride quality can be harsh on rough
club but, unlike the original, there are keep control. That said, the Pirelli Phantom tarmac and unlike some retro rivals that
concessions to modern convenience, Sportcomp tyres dig in and the Gold Star deliberately make an 18in front wheel feel
reliability and safety: ABS, fuel injection, always goes where you point it. The front like a 17, the BSA is heavy-steering and
electric start and an oil-tight engine. Brembo is surprisingly powerful, with flops into very low-speed corners.
We’re riding the new ‘Goldie’ at more feel than many of its more expensive Despite its modest power, the engine is
Millbrook test-track — we’ll have to wait rivals but it’s easy to set the ABS off. keen all the way through the revs and up to
26 SEPTEMBER 2022
the magic ton but the fuel injection can be
snatchy picking up a closed throttle. Both
the clutch and five-speed gearbox have a BEYOND THE HYPE
light, accurate action and although heavy,
the Gold Star is still nimble and The bits that actually make a difference
controllable at low speed. Best of all is the
grumble from its single-cylinder engine. ü A simple single
Thanks to Euro5, it’s nowhere near as vocal Made with partners Rotax and with the help
as an old British single but it shouts loud of Ricardo engineering, the Gold Star is
enough when you give it some stick. powered by a liquid-cooled 45bhp, 652cc
The upright riding position is spacious, single-cylinder DOHC, 4v engine with a dry
relaxed and natural, even for the taller sump, five-speed gearbox and fuel injection.
rider. Shorter riders will feel at home on its Vibrations are minimised with silent chains
low, 780mm seat, too. and tight manufacturing tolerances and the
The Gold Star isn’t a bike for pure A to B crank is dipped in liquid nitrogen before
speed, it’s all about the journey. If you want being pressed into place. Electron-beam
high performance and sharp handling melting is used to create the oilways.
from your retro, the more expensive
offerings from Ducati, BMW and Triumph o No-frills chassis
will be more up your street. The Gold Star uses a tubular-steel frame
The pleasure derived from riding the and box-section swingarm, with built-in flex
Gold Star comes from its easy character, for cornering feel. Conventional 41mm forks
soundtrack and the sneaky glances in shop wear shrouds to cover the stanchions, like
windows as you ride by. It’s only a single, the original and twin rear shocks have five-
but what more do you need nowadays? stage preload adjustment. Spoked wheels
The BSA needed to look good and it does are shod with period-looking Pirelli Phantom
but there are some things that don’t appear Sportcomp tyres and the single 320mm
quite right at first glance: like the radiator front disc is gripped by a twin-piston sliding
and a USB charging pod stuck on the left Brembo caliper with a ByBre rear caliper.
handlebar. It’s built down to a price, so
don’t expect Ducati levels of seduction, but
everything is neat, tidy and well finished. ü The clocks are cool
Only one version is available, although Speedo and tacho needles sweep the
expect different variants and even whole ‘wrong’ way just like the original Gold Star,
new BSA models in the future. Accessories which is a lovely touch. Tiny digital displays
include luggage, crash guards, bar-end show fuel level, trip and odometer.
mirrors, fly screen and clothing. Switches look generic and not in keeping
It’s available in Green (£6500) or Red, with the retro style and it’s easy to knock
Black, or Silver with chrome tank sections the hazard switch with your throttle hand.
(£6800). Then there’s the £7000 ‘Silver Old-school grips have BSA logos.
Pictures Gareth Harford, Stuart Collins
Sheen Legacy’ version for the full DBD34
homage with chrome mudguards and
mirrors, polished engine covers, white seat
p The Gold Star
certainly looks beading and gloss black instrument
the part surrounds, headlight cover and footpegs.
Prices for Royal Enfield’s Indian-made
Interceptor 650 start at £6039, so it’s
cheaper than the Gold Star. It too is a
simple, retro machine with a re-imagined
British badge. The BSA will have its work
cut out to match the Royal Enfield though,
let alone better it but its engine could be
more characterful. MICHAEL NEEVES
The Gold Star isn’t
the fastest or best-
handling retro out
there, but neither
is it pretending to
be. Instead, it’s easy to ride, solid and
reassuring, but still quick if you want it
to be. It’s nicely finished, detailed and
has a classic British soundtrack.
SEPTEMBER 2022 27
NEW BIKES ü Typically beautiful
Italian scene; the
bike’s not bad too…
FIRST RIDE
BENELLI LEONCINO
800 TRAIL
Basic Benelli
has a way to go
THE NEW LEONCINO 800 comes in two
versions; a naked Road model and a
Trail model. Benelli is focusing on the ü The Benelli Leoncino
Trail, so this meant exploring the rugged 800 Trail makes light
work of the loose
countryside inland from Pesaro aboard
the Trail during the launch.
The Trail is £7799, £300 more than the The mirrors give an excellent view
Road version at £7499 but both are behind with no vibration but less
powered by the same 754cc, 75bhp THE FACTS satisfactory is the five-inch TFT digital
parallel-twin motor. The Leoncino 800 dash, which is hard to read in sunlight.
has a cable throttle, so there’s no riding Price £7799 The Leoncino booms out a pseudo-90°
modes; just the ABS that is required to Engine 754cc DOHC parallel twin, 4v V-twin soundtrack and its ultra-flat
achieve Euro5 compliance. per cyl, l/c torque curve makes it easy to ride. The
It has a well thought-out riding Transmission Six-speed, chain six-speed gearbox shifts sweetly and
position, with the stepped seat and Power 75bhp @ 9000rpm silently, although the grabby clutch
relatively low-set footrests delivering a Torque 50lb·ft @ 6500rpm leaves a little to be desired.
relaxed and confidence-inspiring stance Fuel capacity 15 litres The Leoncino still needs a bit of
both off-road and on. Seat height 834mm refinement to be classed as a real
The Trail carries alloy-rimmed wire Wheelbase 1483mm Pictures Benelli/Fabio Polimeni competitor to Ducati, Yamaha and
wheels made in China but shod with Kawasaki. However, it has the makings
chunky dual-purpose Pirelli Scorpion Weight 246kg (kerb, claimed) of a good bike once fitted with ride-by-
Rally STR rubber, which works well on Rider aids ABS wire (planned for the future) and steps
both trail and tarmac. up to the next level. ALAN CATHCART
FIRST RIDE PIAGGIO MP3 530 HPE EXCLUSIVE p It weighs more
than a R1250GS and
It’s a commuting heavyweight makes 44bhp...
PIAGGIO’S REVAMPED £11,500 530 HPE well enough but lack the power for
Exclusive is lighter, has more grunt, a spirited riding. New wheels (13in front,
heap more tech and a new look. 14in back) are shod with Michelin City
The three-wheeler leans through Grip 2 rubber which does the job though
corners like a normal bike but you can it could be better in the wet.
also lock the MP3 upright at a standstill, Piaggio’s range-topper is powered by
to save putting your feet down. And you a single-cylinder engine producing
can ride it with a car licence. 44bhp. Bored out from 493cc to 530cc,
The new 530 has lost 7kg, although it it has a new cylinder head, a lighter
still weighs a whopping 280kg! Such a piston, larger valves, a new cam and THE FACTS
heavy front end takes some getting used combustion-chamber shape. The MP3
to but it’ll filter through narrow gaps. accelerates with vigour but its weight Price £11,500
New By-Bre calipers and ABS work hinders performance. But what oomph it Engine 530cc SOHC single, 4v, l/c
has is delivered nicely via its smooth Transmission CVT gearbox
twist-and-go CVT gearbox. Power 44bhp @ 7250rpm
There’s space for two small helmets
under the seat and there’s keyless Torque 37lb·ft @ 5250rpm
ignition/seat/fuel flap, cruise control, a Fuel capacity 13.7 litres
USB charger, LED lights, a colour dash, Seat height 790mm
new switchgear, blind-spot detectors Wheelbase 1550mm
and a reverse gear. Weight 280kg (kerb, claimed)
There will be a cheaper 35bhp MP3 Rider aids ABS, riding modes, traction
400 HPE Sport version (£9800), with the control, cruise control, reverse gear, Pictures Piaggio
same updates but no reverse gear/ blind-spot detection
P MP3 is OK in the wet but it could be better camera or cruise control. MICHAEL NEEVES
28 SEPTEMBER 2022
FIRST RIDE BIMOTA KB4
things you need
5 to know about…
Bimota’s lovely-looking, Kawasaki-engine’d new KB4
1 LIKE A SPORTS- 4 HANDLING IS
TOURER... ONLY
FROM HEAVEN
BETTER The beautiful composite chassis
With the 140bhp, 1043cc motor from the consists of an upper main trellis frame in
Z1000SX at its heart, the new KB4 could chrome-moly steel tubing, mated to twin
be described as a sports tourer. But that billet-machined aluminium engine plates,
would be doing the sleek and stylish with the engine itself as a fully-stressed
Rimini rip-snorter an injustice. Think more chassis component. Fully adjustable 43mm
Super Tourer… in superhero clothing Öhlins FG R&T NIX30 upside-down forks and
a three-piece aluminium swingarm machined
from separate billets of Anticorodal aircraft
alloy operating a fully-adjustable Öhlins
2 A MODE FOR TTX36 shock via a progressive-rate link,
make the handling simply sublime
EVERY REASON…
ALMOST!
The KB4’s 1043cc Euro5-compliant motor
delivers user-friendly horsepower via two
power modes: Full, which is as per the
label and Low, which has a softer delivery
with output limited to 105bhp. These are
paired to four different riding modes —
Sport, Road, Rain and a customisable
Rider setting — with three different
settings for the traction-control system
5 IT’S LIGHT AND
EASY TO STOP
The bodywork is all carbon
fibre, resulting in a dry weight of just
189kg. That’s stopped via a Brembo
brake package consisting of twin 320mm
floating front discs — downsized from the
330mm items on the Tesi H2 — gripped by
radially-mounted Monoblock four-pot
calipers, with a single 220mm rear disc
and twin-piston caliper. Kawasaki’s own
dual-channel ABS has been adapted to
the Bimota
THE FACTS
Price £30,000 (est)
Engine 1043cc DOHC inline four, 4v per
cyl, l/c
3 YOU SIT Transmission Six speed, chain
VERY PRETTY
Sitting on the new Bimota’s Power 140bhp @ 10,000rpm
rather incongruous-looking tan leather Torque 82ft·lb @ 8000rpm
seat pad, you immediately realise this Fuel capacity 19.5 litres
is not quite the head-down, bum-in-the- Seat height 810mm
air weapon it threatened to be. Thanks
to the quite-low 810mm seat height Wheelbase 1390mm
(adjustable over a 16mm range) you Weight 194kg (kerb, claimed)
sit in the KB4 rather than on it, with a
relatively upright riding position, Rider aids ABS, cornering traction Pictures Kel Edge
thanks partly to the quite wide-spread control, cruise, modes, quickshifter
clip-on ‘bars
SEPTEMBER 2022 29
NEW BIKES KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX SE
BIG QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Is the Ninja H2
SX SE worth
the money?
Does Kawasaki’s tech-heavy supercharged
sports tourer justify its £24,635 price tag?
Words Jon Urry Pictures Adam Shorrock
p A lot of bike for a lot of
money. But is it all a little
too much for British roads?
SUSPENSION
The SE version adds Showa’s Skyhook
semi-active suspension where the
base model comes with fully-
adjustable manual suspension (with a
remote preload adjuster and high/
low-speed compression damping on
the shock). Called KECS (Kawasaki
Electronically Controlled Suspension),
it features semi-active damping on
the forks with manual preload
adjustment while the shock also has
semi-active damping but its preload
is electronically adjustable
AWASAKI CLAIMS ITS updated further enhanced through two radar
2022 Ninja H2 SX SE is ‘the most sensors, adding blind-spot detection,
comprehensively specified collision warning and adaptive cruise
K sports tourer ever created’. control. Add to this a new TFT dash with
When you look at its spec list, you struggle connectivity and the ability to work as a
to rebuke this claim. Obviously the sat nav and it is hard to find any area this
headline act is the supercharged motor but staggering sports tourer is found wanting. ELECTRONICS
The range-topping SE features
when you dig deeper, you can see However this level of tech doesn’t come angle-responsive ABS and TC,
Kawasaki has left no stone unturned on its cheap and in range-topping SE form, the semi-active suspension, an up/
range-topping model. Ninja is a shocking £24,635 with even the down quickshifter, launch control,
As well as angle-responsive electronics, lower-spec model that lacks the semi- cornering lights, a keyless ignition,
hill hold, variable power modes and
semi-active suspension, an up/down active suspension costing £21,635. Does tyre-pressure monitors. Two new
quickshifter, launch control, cornering the ride justify this price tag and has radar sensors add blind-spot
lights, keyless ignition, hill hold and tyre- Kawasaki created the ultimate sports detection, collision warning and
pressure monitoring, 2022 sees the SX tourer? Time to find out... adaptive cruise control
30 SEPTEMBER 2022
DASH
The Ninja H2 SX gains a 6.5-inch
TFT full-colour dash for 2022 that
links to Kawasaki’s free SPIN app
to bring connectivity and access
to third-party navigation and RADAR ASSISTANCE
infotainment apps. It features a The Ninja H2 SX has two radar sensors
‘screen-in-screen’ display and can — one front and one rear facing. The
be operated via the switchgear front one links to a Forward-Collision
Warning (FCW) system and also allows
for Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) while
the rear one activates Blind-Spot
Detection (BSD). The ACC and FCW
have three distance settings with the
FCW illuminating a strip of LED lights
above the dash. The BSD illuminates
a warning light in the relevant mirror
ENGINE
The supercharged inline four is
largely unchanged bar cam timing
and a new exhaust end-can for
2022 but is now Euro5-compliant.
It produces a claimed 197bhp with
101lb·ft of torque, which is more
than enough for a bike that
weighs 267kg
BRAKES
Cornering ABS is standard on
the Ninja H2 SX with the range-
topping SE model featuring
Brembo Stylema monobloc
calipers where the base model
comes with Kawasaki-branded
four-piston calipers. The brake
lines are braided steel
SEPTEMBER 2022 31
NEW BIKES KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX SE
p Forced induction is great
for delivering power as
well as efficiency
Q Do I need
a super-
charger?
Of course not. The ZZR1400
replicated the same beautiful thrust
from a normally-aspirated motor
with more cubes but there is
something special about knowing
you have a supercharged engine
beneath you. And for 2022 it has
been refined to the point that there
is now no disadvantage to smaller
capacity with forced induction.
Although Kawasaki says it has only
altered the cam timing and fitted a
new exhaust can to help the motor
meet Euro5 regulations, we suspect on the throttle after shutting it which at small throttle openings and is
it has also done a touch of refining now seems to have been smoothed easier to ride as a result. Despite the
on the throttle and engine maps. On off, making it more pleasant to ride. option of three power modes, this
the older generation, there was a bit It is still blindingly fast and full of revised fuelling meant we were
of abruptness when you came back midrange but feels more controllable happy to ride it in ‘Sport’ all day long.
Q Is it more sports or tourer?
Kawasaki products tend to be quite straighten out, however, the H2 SX is Q What are
aggressive and the Ninja H2 SX SE more than happy to cover miles; the my options?
certainly sways more towards the semi-active suspension is beautifully
sporty side of sports touring, something damped, the seat and riding position You can opt for the base H2 SX
that the disappointing lack of comfortable for long distances, inbuilt for £21,635 or the X2 SX SE for
adjustability in its screen hints at. pannier mounts are standard and the £24,635 with the SE adding
Aim it at a twisty road and the Ninja 19-litre tank should be good for over 160 Showa semi-active suspension
handles impressively well considering its miles, with 200 potentially on the cards. and a few cool extras such as
weight and length and you can certainly So while it is undeniably a sporty Brembo brakes. On both models
hustle on one in a way that a ZZR1400 sports tourer, it is still more than happy there is the option of ordering
struggles to replicate. Once the bends to cover big miles. either the Tourer, Performance
Edition or Performance Tourer,
which add £750, £1100 and
p It’ll do sports and
touring, with the £1850 respectively. Tourer adds
emphasis on sports 28-litre panniers with inner bags;
the Performance Edition has a
road-legal Akrapovic slip-on
silencer, tinted screen and frame
sliders; and the Performance
Tourer (below) combines both. If
you are prepared to sacrifice the
supercharger, semi-active
suspension and radars, the Ninja
1000SX costs £11,885 (plus £200
for colour options) and can be
bought in the same three options.
32 SEPTEMBER 2022
Q How’s the new tech?
The headline tech revolves around the the dash (fiddling with one of the many
forward and rear-facing radar systems, settings...) so it is a case of tech saving
which bring blind-spot detection (BSD), you from tech. Although by the time the
forward-collision warning (FCW) and lights illuminate, it will probably be too
adaptive cruise control (ACC). late to avoid an accident...
As a few bikes have already Finally, there is the new dash, which is
demonstrated, ACC is a genuine benefit impressive and clear to read in standard
when it comes to easing straight-line road mode. Should you wish to get
ü Blind-spot
miles and Kawasaki’s system is no techy, it connects to your phone via the
monitoring is a
different. Hard to pick fault with in its useful addition free Kawasaki SPIN app (developed by a
actual operation, the only gripes we had third party and also used by Suzuki)
were that the further of the three which facilitates the use of your phone
distance settings seems quite far from via Bluetooth to allow you to make/
the vehicle ahead for it to start to cut passed. There again, you should really receive calls and play music as well as
your speed (we ended up using the be aware of the vehicle if you have just access third party apps to view
middle setting). Also, once clear, it is overtaken it. It’s a genuine safety assist, navigation, weather reports etc.
quite slow to increase your pace again. which is more than we can say of FCW. Although not as slick to use as some
Neither of these complains are major We struggle to see the point of FCW. If manufacturer-built apps, it works well
issues; more comments on its operation. you can spot a series of red lights and is easily accessed via the
The BSD also works well but takes a illuminating on the dash, surely you can switchgear. You can select a dedicated
bit of getting used to. It only activates if also see an obstacle on the road ahead. navigation display, which allows a map
a vehicle is gaining on you (under or For us, it is only there as a result of too to take precedence while still retaining
overtaking) so won’t warn you if you are much tech because, for the lights to important info such as speed, gear
going to pull in too early having already alert you, you will need to be staring at position etc, which is useful.
‘Adaptive
cruise
control is a
real benefit’
P The latest blown Ninja
has industry-leading
levels of technology
SEPTEMBER 2022 33
NEW BIKES KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX SE
p As you’d expect (at almost
£25k), the attention to detail
and finish are excellent
Q How well-made is it?
Engine Details Finish
Kawasaki knows how to build a There is one glaring omission that Owners generally seem to be very
1 solid engine and, despite its 2 makes our blood boil whenever we 3 happy with the level of finish on the
supercharger, there are no horror come across it — the ignition is keyless H2 SX, so all should be well with the
stories about the SX’s reliability, which is but the fuel tank isn’t. Ok, getting past latest version. The paint has a lovely
reassuring as it has been built since this, the SX has a good level of detail sparkle effect and it is nice to see the
2018. That said, it has been recalled for with Kawasaki adding to the SE’s single-sided swingarm where the Ninja
an ECU issue. It comes with a two-year, premium feel through Brembo brakes. 1000SX has a double-sided unit, as this
unlimited-mileage warranty (extendable Under the pillion seat is a USB connector helps to give the H2 a premium feel. It is
through K-Care Warranty Plus) and but the switchgear isn’t backlit, which is also full of neat details like the air
one-year UK breakdown cover. a bit of a shame. intake’s green mesh.
Q What are the best options and add-ons?
p Tyres From £280 a pair
The OE Bridgestone S22 tyres are okay but
feel a bit slow to respond and aren’t great at
getting heat into. It is worth experimenting
with a Pirelli Diablo IV (or Angel GT II if you
want some extra mileage), Metzeler Roadtec
or the excellent new Michelin Road 6 (below).
P Luggage £854.75 P Helmet lock £109.95
The SX has built-in pannier mounts, making As the SX doesn’t come with a topbox option
the bike look sleeker. The official panniers are and the panniers aren’t big enough to fit one, a
28 litres and come matched to the bike’s helmet lock makes sense. It costs £109.95 and
original key. Nylon inner bags are £88.95. can be operated by the bike’s original key.
34 SEPTEMBER 2022
Q How easy is it to work on?
Q What will The first thing to note is that the H2 SX is even an attempt at a tool kit located
it cost to run? SE comes with a centrestand as under the pillion seat.
standard, meaning you can actually lube
Accessing the battery is a simple case
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS? and adjust the chain with ease and there of unlocking the pillion seat, lifting it out
of the way and then pulling off the rider’s
£24,635 seat. No hassle and a one-minute job to
gain access to the battery’s terminals.
That’s the basics covered; why would
£244.91 £580.34 you want to go much further?
PCP x 36 after HP x 36 after £5000 p Battery easy to
£5000 deposit, 4k deposit. 5.9% APR P Standard access and there’s
annual mileage. centrestand makes even a toolkit
£13,788 final chain lubing easy
payment. 5.9% APR
HOW MUCH TO INSURE?
£1228.86 £N/A
Fully comp, TPF&T,
£750 excess £n/a excess
2022 model, worth £24,635. Based on a 52-
year old male engineer, married, licence held for
9 years, 8-years NCD, no claims or convictions, THE FACTS
for social, domestic and pleasure use. Bike is
garaged with postcode WA14 1NU and annual Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE
mileage 5000 miles. Quote supplied by
www.MCNcompare.com in July 2022. Cost £24,635
Engine 998cc, DOHC supercharged
HOW FAR ON A TANK? inline four, 4v per cyl, l/c
MPG Range to Range to Transmission 6-speed chain
fuel light empty Power 197bhp @ 11,000rpm (claimed)
Maximum 46 174 miles 193 miles Q How much 181.6bhp @ 10,500rpm (measured)
Average 41 155 miles 171 miles Torque 101lb·ft @ 8500rpm (claimed)
Minimum 36 136 miles 150 miles power does it 95.1lb·ft @ 8300rpm (measured)
HOW MUCH TO SERVICE IT? make? Frame Tubular-steel trellis
Front suspension 43mm Showa
inverted forks, KECS semi-active
600 miles Replace oil and filter, basic On the dyno, the H2 SX SE makes a damping and manual spring preload
check-over and lube. £181 genuine 181bhp with 95.1lb·ft of torque, adjustment
7600 miles Replace oil and filter, air filter the bulk of which is already in force by Rear suspension Showa monoshock,
(every two years), check fluid. £299 5000rpm. Unlike many modern engines, KECS semi-active damping and
15,200 miles Replace oil and filter, air Kawasaki seems to have focused on the electronic spring preload adjustment
filter, fuel filter, supercharger oil screen, fuelling as there are no nasty Euro5- Front brakes 320mm discs, Brembo
check valve clearances. £856 induced dips at 4000rpm. Out of interest Stylema monoblock radial calipers.
Additional Change coolant every three we compared the 2022 H2 SX’s dyno Cornering ABS
years, brake fluid every two years, fuel run with one we had from the older- Rear brake 250mm disc, two-piston
hoses every five years, spark plugs at generation H2 SX (on the same dyno) caliper. Cornering ABS
30,000 miles. Basic annual service £200. and according to our results, despite Front tyre 120/70 ZR17
Kawasaki’s claims, the H2 SX has lost Rear tyre 190/55 ZR17
WHAT IF I DROP IT? about 10bhp and 5lb·ft in the update. Wheelbase 1480mm
Rake/trail 24.7°/103mm
200
Top fairing (r/h) ............. £307.69 Max power = Fuel capacity 19 litres
Mirror (r/h) ................ £185.63 175 181.6bhp @ 10,500rpm
Front brake lever ............ £74.58 Max torque = Seat height 835mm
Rear indicator ............... £72.20 150 95.1bhp @ 8300rpm Weight 267kg (claimed) 267kg (msrd)
Right footpeg ............... £78.23 125 Rider aids Cornering ABS and TC,
Rear brake lever .............. £77.51 Wheel Power (bhp) / Torque (lb·ft) 100 blind-spot radar monitoring, adaptive
cruise control, forward-collision
Prices from M&P Kawasaki Grand total .......... £2491.67 75 down quickshifter, hill hold, three rider
Silencer .................. £1695.83
warning, semi-active suspension, up/
modes, two power modes, launch
control, tyre-pressure monitoring,
50
keyless ignition, emergency stop
warning, cornering lights, TFT dash
25
0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
Engine speed (rpm x 1000)
SEPTEMBER 2022 35
NEW BIKES KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX SE
What do RiDE
Q readers think?
RiDE reader and H2 SX SE owner Lizzy tries the updated model
‘It’s so easy to ride and keep p New technology is
integrated well, not
up with others on’ forced on the rider
LIZZY you need to sit to the centre or
BURRAWAY, 47 right of your lane so it doesn’t
Height 5ft 6in react to vehicles on your inside.
Owns 2019 “I love the new dash, especially
Kawasaki H2 SX SE with its sat-nav function, which is
a real benefit for touring. It is clear
What’s good? and easier to read than the dash
“Before the H2 SX I owned on my bike. I am also impressed by
a normally-aspirated 1000SX but I the blind-spot system, which is a
found myself having to work it hard really helpful safety aid. I’ve used it
everywhere. The H2 has so much on a car but the warning light was
grunt and I’m glad that’s annoyingly bright and distracting;
unchanged; it’s so easy to ride and on the H2 it is unobtrusive.” Are you convinced? Would you buy it?
keep up with others on. Not keen on? “Yes, I am. I like the way “Yes, I would but there is a
“The new radar-assisted cruise “I’m not a fan of keyless Kawasaki has added a few extra problem. I don’t think the new one
control is incredibly impressive. I systems and I find it annoying the perks that are genuinely helpful. is worth nearly £25k. I bought
tend not to use cruise control but I fuel tank requires a key and its cap They have made a great tourer mine for £14,500 and that’s where
could see using it this much more. seems plastic. A bigger screen even better and enhanced the it makes sense to me. If I won the
You aren’t on and off the brakes; it would be nicer and the radar box riding experience. I love the way lottery I’d buy one but, until then,
does it all for you and so smoothly. on the back is ugly and means you the new technology is integrated I’d go used. So in a few years’ time,
It picked up on cars and bikes but can’t fit a tail tidy.” rather than forced upon you.” 100% I’d buy one.”
p Lizzy loves the new
bike... but not its
brand-new price tag
36 SEPTEMBER 2022
NEW BIKES KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX SE
Q What are but £25k is a staggering
It’s a wonderful bike
its rivals? amount of money
BMW R1250RS
From £13,005
134bhp 106lb·ft 243kg (claimed)
The RS is overlooked and makes for a very
solid sports tourer that, while not sexy, is very
practical and comfortable. Radar-assisted
cruise control isn’t an option and you are
looking at £16,699.99 to bring it in the same
ballpark — tech-wise — as the Kawasaki.
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT
£17,949
173bhp 104lb·ft 225kg (claimed) A ‘It’s a celebration of
One of the best models in KTM’s range, the
Duke GT is powered by the firm’s thumping
V-twin and comes loaded with tech but lacks sports-touring excess’
radar-assisted cruise control. Fast, fun and
brimming with attitude, it isn’t for everyone
but it is a hoot and remarkably practical.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE is radar-assisted functions bring higher
undeniably a very special motorcycle; levels of safety as well as helping the
not only in terms of the technology it dull motorway miles pass with minimal
boasts but also the fact it runs a effort. It is also great to see Kawasaki
supercharger and its overall level of has finally added a proper viewable
build quality. However, if you consider navigation function to its sports tourer’s
the basics — allowing you to cover miles dash, as that was the only piece of tech
in comfort and then enjoy the bends noticeable by its absence before.
when you get to your chosen location — Does it all add up to a £25k machine?
it doesn’t do anything that much better That depends on the depth of your
than a Ninja 1000SX can. Both machines wallet. If you can afford one, the Ninja
Honda NT1100 £12,399 are blindingly fast, sporty yet still able H2 SX SE is certainly at the top of the
101bhp 77lb·ft 238kg (claimed) to tour and have loads of technology to sports-touring tree and while it may not
Certainly the budget touring option, the NT is help keep you safe. However, there is no do anything substantially better than a
impressively well specified considering its low denying the H2 SX SE does add a higher Ninja 1000SX, it certainly does it with far
price tag and if you want to up its ease, adding degree of plushness and refinement to more aplomb...
the DCT gearbox is just £1000 more. You get the whole touring experience.
panniers as standard although, in terms of its The supercharged engine delivers NEXT MONTH...
electronic assists, the NT is left a bit short and mountains of smooth torque; the
lacks an IMU and therefore, angle-sensitivity. semi-active suspension filters out We answer the big questions about
unwanted jolts in the road; and the Ducati’s DesertX all-rounder
38 SEPTEMBER 2022
THE RIDE
Wye Valley-
Malvern Hills loop
With gentle rolling countryside, beautiful towns
and some challenging riding, this is one of the
UK’s unsung biking destinations
Words Jim Moore Pictures Jason Critchell
40 SEPTEMBER 2022
THE FACTS
The route A 100-
mile loop through the
majestic splendour
of the Wye Valley
and Malvern Hills, taking in the
very best of Worcestershire
and Herefordshire.
Why it’s great Fabulous roads, from
fast, sweeping A-roads to technical
lanes, all set against the backdrop of
two ancient counties bubbling with
charm and scenery to lift the soul.
When to go Term-time weekdays are
best, when tourist numbers are
modest — the Malvern Hills get
particularly busy during holidays.
Where to visit The area is bursting
with historical interest but the
Shelsley Walsh hillclimb adds a hit of
adrenaline on a race weekend.
Malvern Hills loop
P The area around
the Wye valley is
stacked with epic
riding roads
SEPTEMBER 2022 41
THE RIDE
OFFEE ALWAYS TASTES better ü Suzuki’s throughout summer…). Only the occasional delivery van
when accompanied by a view. Little GSX-S1000 GT is or farm vehicle threaten to frustrate our pace. Not that
wonder then that my Americano is perfect for a ride any of the aforementioned are an issue for the bike
across England
going down so well as I lean back then to enjoy the beneath me...
on the bench outside The Man of local roads I’ve borrowed editor Matt’s Suzuki GSX-S1000GT for
Ross public house, transfixed by the the trip, so surgical overtakes are only a twist of the right
sight of the river Wye’s flood plain grip away. Imagine the stomp of a superbike and the
C below. The view is framed in the handling of a seriously sorted roadster coupled with the
foreground by pastel-coloured Georgian houses and, to comfort and practicality of a tourer and you’ll
the north, by a ridge of hills rising up from the distant understand the GSX-S GT. By the time I get home, I’ll
river valley. And that’s where we’re heading, for a have covered more than 900 miles in two days on this
100-mile jaunt through the spectacular scenery of Suzuki — every one of them a delight.
Herefordshire and neighbouring Worcestershire. Soon we’re in Hereford, once the Saxon capital of West
I’ve travelled through this area many times on route to Mercia. The city’s location has been a curse as much as a
South Wales but I’ve never actually taken the time to blessing over the centuries — this strategically important
explore this western edge of England — much to my settlement was razed to the ground by a Welsh-Viking
shame. It’s an area rich in ancient landscapes, feudal alliance in 1056 but luckily, conflict is no longer a worry
history and, as photographer Jason and I are about to for the 60,000-strong townsfolk.
find out, roads well worth making the effort to ride. Today we’ve no time to explore (if you’ve got an hour
We drift out of Ross-on-Wye, across the river we’ll or two there’s much to see, including the magnificent
encounter again several times throughout the day, over cathedral). Our route demands that we again cross the
the busy A40 and onto the more interesting A49 that’ll ü Ross-on-Wye river Wye before steering around the town to pick up
take us north to Hoarwithy and Hereford. The 49 is the retains plenty of the A438 for Dormington and Stoke Edith. The 438
perfect start to our mini tour — a flowing trunk road with character from offers a similarly fluid pace to the A49 but with wider
days gone by
ample overtaking opportunities, peppered by enough vistas of the river Wye’s flood plain sandwiched
long-radius turns to keep things interesting. between ever-more impressive hills that now feel
Although the surrounding countryside is distinctly within touching distance.
English in feel — lush hedgerows separate fields, now By Dormington, hedges start to make way for dry-
two-feet deep in ripening wheat or barley — every now stone walls and wooded verges that envelope the road
and then we pass a road sign confirming just how close in vivid green canopies. The GSX-S makes light work
we are to the border with Wales: Abergavenny 10; p Making the of the frequent straights so, before long, we’ve reached
Llangua 5. But we’re not stepping outside England today. most of the fast Perton and our cue to leave the 438. We hang a left
The traffic’s light as we waft towards Hereford; it’s and flowing A44 onto a well-surfaced minor road to Yarkhill. I’m
on the run down
mid-week in term time, so caravans and tourists have through having a blast on the Suzuki but limited visibility, due
yet to clog the county’s arteries (it’ll be a different story Knightwick to high hedges and the risk of encountering a
42 SEPTEMBER 2022
p Loads of history
— some of it dark
— in and around
Ross-on-Wye
ü We started and
finished the circular
route in Ross
‘An area rich in landscapes
and feudal history’
SEPTEMBER 2022 43
THE RIDE
tractor on the next apex, keeps us to a gentle third-gear rolling topography, all linked by straights where I can
roll-on between bends. bring the Suzuki’s 150bhp motor to life.
A couple of miles after crossing the river Frome, we The 465 is a blast, especially beyond Stoke Lacy where
have a brief encounter with the A4103 — another the road snicks up a gear, throwing corners and
uncomplicated trunk road that the GSX-S eats up with undulation changes at us with an urgency that demands
ruthless efficiency before we pause in Newtown for a my full attention. I oblige because the route before me is
much-needed fuel stop. A 19-litre tank is fairly modest so engaging, even if I’m missing out on mile after mile of
for a mile-muncher and the Suzuki’s been demanding stunning countryside. No matter, there are still plenty
fuel every 130 miles or so — sometimes more frequently more miles left to cover.
where the A-road pace increases the engine’s thirst, but At Bromyard we stop for a cuppa and a bite to eat at
that’s my only criticism of this bike thus far. Brew Coffee Shop, a quaint café that serves superb
The petrol station sits on the junction with the A417, paninis and homemade grub. It’s only a quick pitstop,
our next route, and the road delivers with immediate however, before we switch to the B4203. It’s less pleasing
effect. It’s twistier and more technical than previous, than the A44 in terms of road surface – patchy in places
snaking past hamlets, farms and thickets as it draws us and more susceptible to the mud-scrawled signature of
deeper into the heart of the county. The countryside is a tractors from the numerous farm and field entrances —
melting pot of rural England. One mile we could be in but that’s where the B-road status ends. The way it
Leicestershire, the next Derbyshire, then a further click weaves its way between villages is glorious. But our time
on we could be in the Surrey hills or Yorkshire Wolds. together is short because a mile or two before Upper
Then, at Burley Gate, a roundabout appears and it’s Sapey, we hook a right at the crossroads, where we roll
time to turn right onto the A465. And, just like our into Worcestershire, and set course for the village of
transition from the A4103 to A417, the route keeps Clifton upon Teme.
getting better, with sweeping bends and ever-more Time to recalibrate; we’re now on a minor road,
threading between hedges on an ancient lane that’s
barely wide enough for two cars. This, for whatever
p GSX-S loves a
long-radius reason, is how I envisaged this part of the world —
bend... seriously rural, yet charming, and cloaked in rich green.
The Malvern Hills form a horizon that gets closer with
every mile, much like the ominous-looking clouds
above them. If we make it through the day without
getting wet, I’ll be amazed.
Within a couple of miles, it becomes obvious that we
are indeed riding into the rain. The clouds have left their
calling card — the road has gone from dry to damp to
alive with bubbling streams in a matter of miles. The
fast-flowing water, running off the fields, has dumped
ribbons of grit across the road. Thank goodness for ABS…
Beyond the quaint stone village of Clifton upon Teme,
we pick up the B4204, a playful stretch of tarmac that
Feed me, feed me, feed me...
Brew Coffee Shop
Bromyard
Olde worlde building with contemporary feel
inside. Light lunches, home-made cakes and
freshly ground coffee a speciality — the
paninis are perfect fuel for an afternoon’s ride.
facebook.com/BREWbromyard/
The Man of Ross Sally’s Place Café
Ross-on-Wye A449, Malvern Hills
Charming, family-run pub on Wye Street with Perfectly placed roadside café, just past the
a hearty menu and a warm, friendly reception. British Camp on the A449 escarpment Robert Macdonald / Alamy Stock Photo
Plenty of outdoor seating if you want to keep between Malvern Wells and Ledbury. Excellent
an eye on your bike while enjoying your lunch. selection of savouries, cakes, food and drinks.
facebook.com/TheManofRossInn/ facebook.com/sallysplacemalvern
44 SEPTEMBER 2022
‘The countryside
is a melting pot of
rural England’
takes us past high hedges, lush pastures and through a P Riding away A44 – left to Worcester, right to Leominster; we take the
dizzying cascade of twists and turns to the next from Upton upon latter but it’s only the briefest of encounters with this
settlement of Martley. It’s a B-road gem, despite the Severn with the trunk route before we hook a left onto an unclassified
Malvern Hills in
indecisive weather. the background back road to Lulsley and Suckley. We’re in the heart of
The B4204 forks off in Martley towards Worcester; rural Worcestershire: no road markings, and a
we’re not heading east, so instead take the B4197 south to carriageway and a half at best. But that’s all part of this
Knightwick. By now we’ve got ahead of the clouds, and route’s charm; it has everything from fast, flowing
thankfully, the road is dry again. Villages and their A-roads to sections that are barely more than a track,
accompanying 30mph limits emasculate the route at and everything else in between.
times, but there’s still enough between them to keep the The further down this unclassified road we go, the
GSX-S and myself interested. more rural and enchanting it becomes. Trees hang over
At Collins Green, we’re greeted by a spectacular vista large sections of the route like a living tunnel and every
across the valley, looking down on fields and across to now and then, a secluded dwelling or a small farm
some imposing peaks in the Malvern Hills. There’s a emerges from the undergrowth, while all the time the
whiff of Peak District about the area again, especially Malvern Hills loom large to our left.
with a bubbling brook on the other side of the road. Once at Old Coldwall, we’re in the Malverns proper, a
And then, all of a sudden, we’re at a junction with the 12km-square area of outstanding natural beauty that’s
SEPTEMBER 2022 45
THE RIDE
like a fusion of quintessential English countryside and
Tolkien’s Middle Earth. I’m sure there are hobbits hiding
in them there hills…
At Coldwall Green, we take a left to Upper Wyche,
Lower Wyche and Link Top — Lower Wyche presenting a
stunning view across the lowlands to Poolbrook off to
the east. A blast down the B4211 takes us from Link Top
to Upton upon Severn, then we pick up the A4104 and
make east for the Malverns once again. Welland marks
the boundary of the hills, but it's not until we round the
right-hander past Marl Bank and face the incline up onto ‘The road
the escarpment — and gaze in wonder at the Little
Malvern Priory halfway up — that we feel back within
this special part of Worcestershire. climbs higher
A sharp left on to the A449 and we continue climbing,
passing the British Camp Hill Fort at the summit, then in a series of
racing down towards Ledbury on lower ground.
Unfortunately, the heavens open again, this time
biblically, so our run down to Much Markle is more like a sublime twists’
swim than a ride…
Luckily, we outrun the clouds again and the west side
of Much Markle is dry, which is fortuitous because one of
the route’s best sections is still to come. The final treat
begins to unfold at Perrystone Hill, the road hugging the
edge of the ridge and climbing ever higher in a series of
sublime twists and turns, each one building anticipation
for the next — it’s five miles of pure bliss.
And then, just like that, the A449 spits us back out onto
the A40 at Ross-on-Wye. We’ve come full circle on a
gem of a ride that I’ll definitely be back to do again.
P Gently rolling through centuries of history in Upton
Three great places to visit
BEST FOR TRANQUIL REST BEST FOR MOTORSPORT BEST FOR MEDIEVAL GLORY
Little Malvern Court and Shelsley Walsh Hillclimb Hereford Cathedral
Gardens Shelsley Walsh has been hosting speed trials Construction of this Grade-1 listed monolith
Nestled just beyond Welland on the east side since 1905, making it the oldest motorsport began in 1079, although the site has been a
of the Malvern Hills escarpment, this 15th venue still running on its original course. The place of worship since the ninth century.
Century priory and grounds is the perfect 1000-yard track hosts events throughout the Hereford Cathedral is also the home of the A ROOM WITH VIEWS / Alamy Stock Photo
place to catch your breath and unwind. summer (check the website). Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the world.
Price of entry £9 (gardens), £12 (house tour) Price of entry £10 (advance), £12 (gate) Price of entry Free, donations welcome
littlemalverncourt.co.uk shelsleywalsh.com herefordcathedral.org
46 SEPTEMBER 2022
THIS MONTH’S DOWNLOAD
BIG RIDE THE ROUTE
www.ride.co.uk
ROUTE
Best for The rural highlights and hidden tarmac gems that make up the border land
between England and Wales. Length 98.4 miles.
Route Ross-on-Wye to Hereford, then Dormington, Bromyard, Clifton upon Teme,
Knightwick, Link Top, Upton upon Severn, Ledbury, Hole-in-the-Wall and back to Ross.
Roads A49, A438, A4103, A417, A465, B4214, A44, B4203, B4204, B4197, B4220,
B4218, A449, B4211, B4208, A4104, B4224
Love it because Variety is the spice of The views are spectacular looking both
life and this route has almost every kind up and down the valley.
of amazing road to ride and enjoy. Stop for a cuppa at Brew Coffee Shop
Take a picture at The former priory in Bromyard — it’s halfway around the
that is Little Malvern Court and Gardens. route and is well worth stopping for. Map data ©2022 Google
TOP TIP
If home is east, start the route from
Upton upon Severn to save yourself
having to double-back up the A449
— although if you’ve got the time, it’s
a great road to ride in both directions
ALSO TRY...
Hereford–Chepstow loop
Best for Dipping in and out of the splendour that is the Wye Valley’s area of
outstanding natural beauty. Length 85 miles.
Route Hereford to Mitcheldean via Old Gore and Upton Bishop, then south to
Crossways and Chepstow before heading back north to Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye and
eventually Hereford once again.
Love it because The area between which offers one of the most spectacular
England and Wales is as rich in sights, views in the whole Wye valley.
vistas and points of interest as it is in Stop for a cuppa at Symonds Yat café
P Approaching the amazing roads and motorcycling nirvana. — you’ll have earned a coffee and cake
Little Malvern Priory
on the B4211 Take a picture at Symonds Yat Rock, by the time you get there.
TOP TIP
If you want to cut down the
A40 section of the ride, hop Map data ©2022 Google
onto the A466 just past
Monmouth
P Suzuki GSX-S1000 GT makes the most of the straight bits
SEPTEMBER 2022 47
BRITAIN’S TOP-10
These are the best-value,
most useful, most fun fairing-
free bikes in UK showrooms
Words Jon Urry, Jim Moore and Matt Wildee
48 SEPTEMBER 2022
TOP-10 NAKEDS
HERE IS NO getting away from the fact that
British bikers like it naked. Despite the
inexorable rise of the adventure bike, naked
T motorcycles are still the most popular bikes in
Britain. Last year 24,000 naked bikes made their way
into the hands of happy punters and it’s easy to see why.
They look great, like ‘proper’ motorbikes; are
normally more fun than their faired cousins; and come
in favours to suite all tastes.
From retro to techno-packed and modern, from mild
to wild, these are our ten favourite naked motorcycles on
the market today.
BRITAIN’S TOP-10 NAKEDS
KTM 1290 be for everyone but it is
‘The Beast’ may not
10SUPER DUKE R an absolute marvel
Astonishing motor and reasonable road
manners make this a supernaked like no other
Price £16,349 Power 177bhp Torque 103lb·ft Weight 206kg Seat height 835mm
KTM’s supernaked won’t appeal to 1301cc V-Twin is
everyone — that’s just a fact of life. To some devastatingly fast
riders, the bold and brash approach taken and gutsy
in both the styling and attitude of its bikes
by the Austrian manufacturer is a turn-off.
However, for others, it gives them their
unique spirit and is a draw.
On thing’s for sure; it is devastatingly
fast. A booming 1301cc V-twin, it boasts
almost 180bhp and more than 100 pounds
of torque and has electrifying throttle
response. There really is no other naked
bike on the planet that delivers the same
amount of grunt. But there is more to the
KTM than headline figures and all that ‘No other naked
guttural torque. KTM loves to market the
Super Duke R as ‘The Beast’, a title which delivers the
is wearing a bit thin now – because when
you need it to be, it’s actually easy-going. same amount
In the last update (in 2020), KTM made a
deliberate decision to refine its supernaked of grunt’
through an all-new chassis that features a
rising-rate suspension linkage rather than
the previous direct-link connection. This
system gives the Super Duke R much more Take to the road on the Super Duke R and
compliance in its chassis and WP the initial impression is just how
suspension, allowing the shock to respond shockingly powerful the V-twin motor is.
properly and removing the choppy and An absolute weapon of a powerplant,
feisty handling sensation that blighted the when you bang the throttle open it
previous generations. When combined unleashes a monster hit of torque that
with a more refined engine and electronics thumps you back in the seat and puts some
package, the result is a truly brilliant bike. serious strain on your arms. If you want
that instant kick of adrenalin, the Duke
certainly delivers it, as it will lift the front
in the first four gears with no effort
whatsoever. However, it unleashes its
power with a large amount of control. The
throttle control is precise and the
electronics far from obtrusive as they
gently come into play, which means you
can actually use the power and enjoy the
thrill rather than be intimidated by it.
The punch of its motor combines with a
The V-twin engine’s beautifully set-up chassis to make it a
performance is wonderful ‘point and squirt’ bike that can
incredible and the roll through bends with great balance,
chassis excellent. agility and stability and then fire out of
Electrical glitches aren’t them with an instant kick of torque rather THE COSTS
uncommon. than have to wait for the drive to build up SERVICING
with the revs. Ride it in this way and it is
RIDE VERDICT KTM has hard not to really fall for KTM’s bonkers Minor 9000 miles/£350
finally managed to hit the naked as it feels like a bike built for the PCP
Major 18,000/£600
right balance between sheer enjoyment of rapid road riding. £185.91 a month x 36
performance and road Make no mistake; the Super Duke R is a (£3300 deposit, 7.9% APR, 4000
manners with the latest serious bit of kit, with a serious price tag, annual miles, £8955 final payment)
generation of Duke. The but it has enough tech, quality components AFTER THREE YEARS
PREDICTED VALUE
result is a staggering naked. and feisty spirit to make every ride a thrill £9500
without overstepping the mark. JON URRY
50 SEPTEMBER 2022
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