MOTO X VOLUME 2 NUMBER 7

Fe.sturing:

: f~r.akfast Run

.,EEDWAY .

Road T•• ts •••

•••• d mor... thll

.our •• '

••

Come to Shell for answers.

Suzuki and

Keith Zeeman do.

Suzuki jShell CS 1000 outright winner of the 3 hour Superbike Challenge.

Keith Zeeman, South African motor cycle champion,
on his sponsored Suzuki, faces and wins with Shell Super
Motor Oil.

It's Shell's definitive answer to the problems two and
four stroke bikes face on the road and in competition.
Always ahead of the field, Shell Super Motor Oil is specially
designed to keep your engine and plugs clean, minimize
exhaust deposits, while protecting bearings from corrosion
and pistons from seizing.
Whatever motor cycle you ride, come
to Shell for answers. The champions do.

SUZUKI Shell

• VZ78/JS380/309

Transvaal Series SYRINGA - The popular series.
Pg8 &21
8 2ND ROUND SYRINGA SERIES- Kawasaki's day of thrills
10 VAAL CLUB MEETING- Roughing at sandy Leeukuil.
10 TMX CLUB MEET - Spaarwater hosts the occasion.
18 TVl. CHAMPS - Spaarwater once again
21 3RD ROUND SYRINGA SERIES- Kolbenschmidt's day of thrills
36 TVl. CHAMPS - Tissen sets the pace.

Natal Series

32 5TH ROUND S.A. CHAMPS - Grant is still king.

Cape Series

30 BRACKENFELLROAD - A fewtop riders out. BIKE SHOW 78 - Pg 26

Features SPEEDWAY - First in a monthly series
PI!. 4
2 EDITORIAL - Views and news
2 THE RECEIVINGEND - Letters to the editor
4 SPEEDWAY - A look at a series which will be detailed in further issues
6 BIKE TESTS - The Moto Guzzi 850 le Mans
11 BREAKFAST RUN - First in our monthly series
16 BIKE TEST - The laverda 10003C
19 4TH RND. S.A. CHAMPS - Outside our border (Rhodesia)
26 CARLTON CENTRE- A look at the more exciting models
28 CARTOON - Cynics from Martin Potgieter
31 REASONS! - Is motocross lacking funds or sponsorship
40 BIKE TEST - The B.M.W. R100RS
42 YAMAHA - News
42 CASTROL - News

4x4 club of SA

43 HEARING FROM PETERACHTERBERG - 1978 Castrol rally

FRONT COVER: Raemond Shuttleworths fine study of a Group of motocrossers RHODESIA -Crossing the border for a
in the Western Cape. round towards the S.A. Champs Pg19

INSIDE BACK COVER: Stevenson and Gray in moments of their own -
Hammarsdale15 & 16 July, 78. (Photo: George Whyte)

Moto X & BikeNewsSAVol2 No7 Sept78 Page1

0W Editorial THE RECEIVING
END
publicItIDftS Greetings!
DEAR SIR,
20 FELIX DRIVE You're soon to notice that this
KIBLER PARK. month's magazine brings much I am a Rotary Exchange Student from
1872 good tidings, including the fact Australia, to your country in 1978-79
that with this issue we celebrate My brother back home is very
VOLUME 2 - NUMBER 7 our 1 st. Birthday. Mota X S.A. interested in Mota-cross as he is a
has now put out twelve editions member of the Canberra Club in
Registered at the G.P.O. as a newspaper. and with our coming of age we Australia.
plan to continue on an even
Distributed nationally by Intermag. higher note. Firstly, you may I was wondering if there is any way
have noticed the great 'new that I could get your magazine "MOTO
Moto X S A is published monthly by the look' magazine, bringing you X SA" sent directly to him, as he is
proprietors G.W. Publications. the jumps and berms in even very interested in the bike scene over
more glorious technicolor than here.
EDITOR: ever before. Secondly, we are
Gary Whyte happy to announce that our MICHELLE FRENCH
cover price has been dropped to (R.E.S. '78)
TECHNICAL EDITOR: SO cents including G.S.T.,
Mike BucknaIl thanks to the great support of VEREENIGING, TVL.
you our readers and advertisers
CONTRIBUTORS: alike. Dear Sir,
Peter Achterberg, Viv Zimmerman, Eddie Irwin,
Buddy Attwell and Richard Dromeris. In the future the subscription I am mad about Moto X and I love
rates will be a meagre RS ,00
SUBSCRIPTIONS: for twelve issues, certainly a your magazine. I have been reading it
Viviane Whyte chance not to be missed. All
those who have previously since the beginning of the year. I often
LAYOUT AND DESIGN: subscribed at the old rate will
Gary Whyte have their issues extended attend meetings at Syringa Spa.
appropriately.
PRINTED BY: My brother-in-law used to race with
BlesstonPrinting & Publishing (Pty) Ltd. Lastly our 'Bike News' section is
36 Stanley Avenue. being boosted with hot tests of Charlie Tissen but retired after a
Auckland Park. all the latest up and coming
Road bikes, along with a chatty serious injury at Syringa Spa.
TYPESETIING: type coverage of the ever famous
Good Graphix, Breakfast runs and road races. Could it be possible to send me the 12
2nd Floor, Loutan House.
141 Prichard Street. All in all a great many more editions of 1977 and a binder, would
Johannesburg. reasons to give up your beer
money at the nearest C.N.A. you just please quote the price? I
EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING OFFICES: securing for yourself S.A.'s No.
P.O. Box 82760, Southdale. 2135. 1 dirt mag, to love and cherish would be very thankful and could you
till a stuck throttle do us part.
AD ENQUIRIES: also send me some posters please?
22·5206 (Jhb.) (Asst. Ed)
Yours sincerely,
CONTRIBUTIONS:
Peter Millerman Cyrildene
We welcome any Photographs, articles and
illustrations. They will remain the property of Johannesburg
MOTO-X S A unless prior arrangements are made
with the editor to return such material. Photographs
should be 5" x 7" colour or black and white prints.
Contributors will be awarded a fee if material
submitted is accepted.

Copyright reserved. Nothing in this magazine may
reprinted in whole or in part without the express
permission of the publisher. All published material
becomes the sole property of MOTO-X S A

OBITUARY

We offer our sincere condolences to
the family of Tony Hennie, who lost his
life tragically at Kyalami on Saturday,
August 12th.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 No.7 Sept 78 Page2

BERARIO ARCADE SHOPPING CENTRE, JUDGES AVE.

ARKANSAS STREET. t ..........
t ,....---
TELEPHONE: 678- 2325
t

(Photos: GeorgeWhyte)

Mota X & Bike News SA Vol2 No.7 Sept 78 Pege4

Make a note on your calendar. Our
next meeting will be held on

Sunday, 3rd September 1978

1

}

IOTHOU.THROUGH THE GEARS
AND YOUR OICSTURNING AS FAST.

YOU NEEDTOTAL PROTECTION.

It's an ordinary South African day.
Hot.
And she's singing the song of

JO 000 revs as easily as idling.
That's when you need an oil

that really knows how to lubricate.
Like Total GTS and Total

2-strokeoil. Beefed-up oil to
handle the power of a modem
motorcycle and the temperature
changes that go with it.

Maximum protection and
smooth running all day.
That's the Total promise.

So don't get on your machine
andgowithout it.

TOTALJHE OILTHAT PROTECTS.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 NO.7 Sept 78 Page5

~

fl'iIDj@) ®!ml

850 LE MANS

INTEGRAL BRAillE

The Mota Guzzi 850 Le Mans is effect the handling. The rims are cast alloy and are made by
definately a bike with a big problem, The Guzzi 850 Le Mans 844cc engine F.P.S. the same firm which makes
namely YOU. You have got to conquer has the ability to travel at very low revs wheels for Ducati. On the 850 Le
an over riding selfconciousness that almost sounding like a three cylinder Mans, Metzelers are fitted as standard.
riding the bike brings. Wherever you diesel engine. But the torque low down There are bikes around that are faster
park or ride the bike, someone will is fantastic. With it's 10.2:1 than the Le Mans, but I am sure there
always stop to have a look. It looks like compression ratio it almonst feels if are few that handle better. There is
a pure racing machine that shouldn't you could tow a plough behind the only one vee twin that I know can
be on the road. bike. probably do better, and that is Italian
It took under 20 minutes from the four Self maintenance on the Guzzi is very too. Because of the fairly close gear
way stop at Witkoppen to the Pavillion easy. If you ever need to change the ratios, changing down without blipping
restaurant at Hartebeespoort Dam. big- ends, all you have to do is drop the the throttle brought flywheel drag.
There can be no doubt that the speedo sump as this is all in one piece. Access While blipping the throttle brought an
is very optimistic. It is a pity that Veglia to the rockers and the two 36mm initial surge forward. Changing down
have not done something to improve Dellorto carbs is easy to reach too. The on a wet road while leaning over will
their instruments over the past few clutch is the dry plate type. similar to a cause 'disaster because of the
years as this is one of the small details car. Primary reduction is 17/21 directness of the drive. Changing up is
which spoil the bike. (1 :1,235), made as the drive leaves the a different proposition wet or dry and
At 8,000 rpm. in top gear, the speedo gearbox. The timing chest houses provided that you do not use fistfulls of
registers 220 kph, but through the double contact breakers, again easily power the Guzzi will stay on line.
lights the actual speed was 211 km/h. accessible.
At semi low speeds the speedo The engine itself picks up fairly cleanly
registered 80 km/h when the bike was from standstill, thanks to accelerator
actually doing 65 . km/h. The pumps in the carbs, although I found
manufacturers of Mota Guzzi claim 80 that it would sometimes ping. The
bhp at 7,200 rpm and it's quite unreal front forks are factory made by Guzzi
by the way the power flattens off and incorporate a sealed damping
around thse revs. Although ana long system made by Carboni. A couple of
downhill a few extra k's could probably chaps I spoke to who own a Le Mans
be achieved. All in all the above figures state that the seals leak after 5,000 k's,
add up to incredible performance. but once these are replaced they don't
The Mota Guzzi 90 degree vee twin, leak again. The shocks themselves
set transversely across the frame, five seem quite soft, but I only managed to
speed gearbox and shaft drive make bottom them on very hard bumps,
the Guzzi rock laterally to and fro when when I braked suddenly two up. The
idling. It is a small movement, yet when rear shocks are three setting adjustable
changing down it can bring a stronger for pre-load on the exposed chrome
lurch to the right. but this doesn't springs.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 No 7 Sept 78 Page6

Going up through the gears is quite footrests are welded to a piece of black SPECIFICATIONS
exhilerating. Taking the revs to just tube which gives the impression of
over 7,000 rpm. gives you 80 km/h in being an extra goodie forgotten about ENGINE
first, second 110 km/h, third 150 during manufacture. The stands are lYRe: 90 Degree Vee twin, push rod
krn/h, fourth 180km/h and top 210 also not very well placed and I found four stroke.
plus. considerable difficulty in kicking out ~~y..:844cc
the side stand. ComRression: 10.2:1
The braking system on the Guzzi must BHP at RPM: 80bhp at 7,200rpm.
be one of the greatest achievements in Mota Guzzi have a real thoroughbred claimed
motorcycling safety, this century. It is a which will definately make it's name Clutch: Dry diaphram type.
linked braking system, in other words, heard among machines which are a lot Primary drive: Direct with ratio 1:1235
when you push the foot brake it is not more expensive. The styling of the Le Gear ratios:lst 1:11.643 2nd 1:8080
only operating the rear disc, but also Mans is definitely Italian, found 3rd 1:6095 4th 1:5059 5th 1:4366
the left front disc. This works through previously only on the Desmos Jotas Carbs: Two Dellorto 36mm PHF 36B
a reduction valve with a ratio of 75 % of this world. It looks like 200 km/h (no filters).
braking efficiency on the front wheel standing still and is the sort of bike
and 25% on the rear. You also have a many of us would pay a little extra for. Electrics: 12 volt with 20 watt
brake on the right hand front disc generator on crankshaft.
which is operated by the brake lever on Wheelbase: 1:49 metres
the handle bars. The whole system is Ground clearance: 0.17 metres.
Brembo, and the discs have been Kerbweight: 486 Ibs with fuel
drilled to clear water. They are first rate Wheels: Cast alloy FPS wheels.
brakes, stopping distance is 8.6 metres lyres: Front: Metzeler 350 x 18 rille 10
at 50 km/h and 35.69 metres at Iy'res: Rear: Metzeler 410 x 18 block
100km/h, these being the average C7 racing profile.
figures after 10 crash stops. Brakes: Front; Two 0.30 metre Brembo
If you are considering buying a discs hydraulically operated.
sporting bike, you do not have to look Brakes: Rear One 0.24 Brembo disc
much further, as this is all the Le Mans hydraulically operated, linked system.
is. It looks lean, low and fast, but at the Fuel CaRacity..; 24 litres including 5
same time it breathes safety and only litres reserve.
by riding it will you discover how sure Top~eed: 215 km/h
footed it is. Standing_% mile: 13.4 seconds.
Test bike supplied by Roma Guzzi, cor
One or two small niggly items spoil the End and Pritchard Streets, Jhb.
overall perfection of the bike. Neutral is
sometimes difficult to find in traffic Mike BucknaIl (Test Rider)
when the clutch gets hot. The

~~

[liIQJi]@) CIDmJ

71 End Street, Johannesburg.

Tel. No.:
..~.25'9571/2
~~~~ ~~

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 No 7 Sept 78 Page7

,. f •

Larney leads. Check out (10) and Riddell's arm positions. (Photo: Willem Conradie)

Ridiculously fast control. (Photo: Willem Conradie) Gary at his hardest. (Photo: Willem Conradie)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 No7 Sept78 Pagfl8

A new petrol which cuts down wear by
reducing friction in those parts of the

engine that oil cannot reach and cleans

away deposits in the engine's inlet
tract, has been launched by BP
Southern Africa (Ptv) Limited.

Called BP 2000, the new petrol
appeared for the first time at almost

1000 service stations throughout
Southern Africa, South West Africa

Grant McCleery (210) and Geoff Larney fighting it out. (Photo: George Whyte) and the country's neighbouring states,
The muddy start of the Highschooiers. (Photo: Seymour Smith) on 15 June.
Hayward up front. (On his bike that is) . (Photo: Gary WhYte) A spokesman for BP SA said that the
petrol was a result of intensive

research into the requirements of the

South African motorist.
"We have gone into this one extremely

thoroughly and are convinced that we
have a product that will be a winner

with the motorist," he said.

"Before we launched our new petrol,

it's special components were tested

over a period of six months and 180

000 km of punishing city driving.

Confirmation of BP 2000's

performance was also obtained
through trials in gruelling country
conditions, conducted under the strict
control of Randalia."
The new petrol contains detergent
materials that clean, and keep clean,

the inlet tract of the car's engine.
However, in addition to this cleaning
action BP 2000 also has the effect of
reducing friction in the oil-starved "dry
zones" located at the top of the

engine. It does this by laying down a
microscopically-thin anti-friction layer
on the parts concerned.
One such "dry zone" is that located
between the throttle blade spindle and

the bushes mounted on the carburettor
body.

Friction between these parts can result

in the two components wearing,
thereby allowing unwanted air to be
drawn into the inlet manifold.

This has the effect of upsetting the
air/fuel ratio which results in the

inefficient use of fuel and could even
result in engine damage.

According to BP SA, the friction-

reduction property of their new petrol
helps solve this problem and this

benefit, coupled with BP 2000's
engine clean-up characteristics, result
in optimum economy.

An extra bonus, according to BP SA, is
that a e new petrol contains a
component that will reduce engine

stalling caused by carburettor icing
which can occur in cold, damp

conditions.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 No 7 Sept 78

Vaal Club Meeting - McCleery took the honours in the Hardiman, Gary Butcher, Dean
24th June. 100cc's.
Koekemoer, Craig Smith and Martin
Other junior riders who looked good
Simonik who bravely withstood the

were Mark Lamb, Norman Miller and perils and problems of Leeukuil.
Possibly it was a hangover from the Leon Mathews. The extreme junior
All in all, a happy, relaxed days
previous weekends's National in class, if you will excuse the expression,
racing!
Salisbury, or anticipation and practise was hotly contested by John Buddy Attwell.

atSyringaforthefol~wingweekend's~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Syringa Series, that kept so many of the

regular riders away from Leeukuil on TMX Club Meeting - Spaarwater start to finish. Cliff Lawler came in
second this time followed by Allen
Saturday 24th June. - 8th July 1978 Phillips.

It might even have been the fact that Grant Maben was obviously saving
his 125cc machine for the Durban
certain less fit competitors simply Rather like the Vaal Club meeting National, as he only competed in the
250cc event, and did so at his flying
couldn't stand the thought of three two weeks previously, a number of the fastest! He gave a display of speed and
spectacular riding that was a joy to
heats of torture on this extremely top riders were nursing their machines watch. -

bumpy and rough circuit! In any event, and themselves for the big league, Horace Bergstrom was his closest
rival in the first heat, with Peter Hill and
we saw some of the smallest fields for which this time happened to be Natal Toby Venter riding. Roy Sturgeon
made his first appearance in this class
a long time, but fortunately this did not National. Even so, the fields were on a Red Rocket Honda, and looked
very impressive, as did Greg Wilson
detract altogether from some very fine sufficiently Star - studded to provide who took on the 250cc field, mounted
on his 125cc Suzuki. After a good ride
and exciting racing. excellent racing in all classes. in the first mota, Tony Moyes really
pulled out the stops in the second, and
The presence of Grant Maben who The Riddell Brothers, Neil and Tony, was beaten by Grant Maben only.
After somersaulting in spectacular
rode in both the 125cc and 250cc looked set to make a clean sweep of style in the second heat, Peter Hill
remounted, somewhat sore, and rode
classes ensured a high standard out in their respective classes, with Neil like a demon to move through the field
and finish in the first ten.
front with opposition coming from the taking the first 100cc Junior heat at a
Dean du Plessis took full advantage
likes of Dean du Plessis, Greg Wilson, trot from Norman Miller, Leon of Maben's absence in the 125cc
Senior class, and took of like a bullet in
Nicky Milosevich Tyronne Mathews, Geoffrey Lamey, Grant the first heat, hotly pursued by Nicky
Milosevich and Brian Attwell. Midway
Stevenson, Gary Draper and Brian and McCleery and Mark Lamb, but he had through the race Attweillost his chain
Wayne Attwell in the 125's, with the misfortune in the second heat of and Milosevich's motor started to
splutter. Meanwhile at the back of the
Darryl Werner and Toby Venter having his motor seize. As his father field, Greg Wilson and Wayne Attwell,
who had both fallen off earlier, were
providing the opposition in the 250's Neville~id " Rather have it happen working their way through the pack with,

by combining the 250cc and 500cc this week than next!" Riddell's Wilson eventually taking second spot
ahead of the sick Suzuki of Milosevich.
MX with the Enduros, competitors departure from the scene gave Leon The second 125cc Mota was a race of
tumbles and breakdowns with both Du
were able to ride three heats and still Mathews the opportunity of winning Plessis and Wilson, who finished first
and second respectively, biting the
get home before nightfall. The first of the second heat with Grant McCleery dust at one time or another. In what
was almost an elimination contest,
the combined heats was a run-away riding a very good second and Robert Peter Belcher came through into third.

for Maben with an exciting duel for Davies coming home third. Racing finished at 4pm, allowing
competitors and spectators to reach
second place between Darryl Werner Big brother Tony made no mistake in home before nighfall, a fact for which
they were all no doubt grateful.
and Toby Venter, with Werner moving winning both heats in the 125cc
Well done, organisers!
into second with one lap to go. The Juniors Class. Robert Larney looked
Buddy Attwell
second and third heats were virtually a really good in both heats, but came to

repeat of the first, with Maben winning grief in the first while in second spot,

from Werner and Venter. Hennie and took his second tumble of the day

Steyn, Victor Kulikowski and E. van after weaving his way through the field

der Heuwel were the pick of the 500cc 'in an attempt to catch Riddel in the

riders. final heat, after having a bad start, hard

Greg Wilson seems to have regained riding by Dean Muter rewarded him

the dash and confidence that made with a second place in the first heat,

him one of South Africa's top Juniors where he was followed home by

last year, and fresh from his triumph in newcomer Tony Le Roux.

Salisbury, he got the holeshot in the The Enduro class was completely

first 125cc event, leading from start to dominated by Roy Sturgeon, who

finish except for one brief period when seldom seems to get a good start, and

Maben overtook him, before his bike really has to fight his way through to

seized. Dean du Plessis filled second the front. He took the lead in the first

place with Nicky Milosevich third. The heat after John Dowling dropped it in

second 125cc heat was punctuated at the thick mud. Dowling managed to

regular intervals by prangs of varying extricate himself and his bike from the

degrees of seriousness. The first to mush and finish a good second with

drop his mount was Wayne Attwell, Hubert Schreider third. Sturgeon

just returning to the motocross scene. pulled off in front for a change in the

Next off was Dave Hoffman who fell second heat, and held the lead from

very heavily, resulting in a trip by ... ---------~~~~.,,----

ambulance to Vanderbijl Hospital.

Nicky Milosevich also managed a fall

while lying In second spot. Eventual

winner was Maben with Du Plessis

second and Wilson third. Third heat

also went to Maben but Greg Wilson's

second spot in this heat gave him an

overall win for the day.

The 125cc High School class was a

fight between Kenny van der Merwe,

Wayne Jones, Peter Hills and Geoffry

Nel, with van der Merwe winning by

the proverbial mile, while Grant

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol2 No 7 Sept 78 Page10





SPORTSMAN LAGER
MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP

BERLIN RACEWAY
27 MAY1978, PROMOTED BY
EAST LONDON MOTORCYCLE

AND CAR CLUB.

The enthusiastic local club had been

doing a lot of work preparing their

circuit for their annual taste of national

championship competition. This

"natural terrain" circuit lies about an

half hour drive from East London and

is ideally situated miles from anywhere

ensuring no bad vibes from neighbours

about noise, dust etc. The course was

in first class condition although

deteriorating rather badly towards the

later races. The local club had doubled

the amount of toilets and generally

jacked up the rather rural spectator

facilities which now even include

pleasant beer gardens for the

Sportsman brew.

125 MX Seniors

The first heat saw Grant Maben on
the Sportsman Castrol Honda take his

now traditional command of

proceedings and without much trouble

from Tissen on the watercooled

.Yarnaha nursing his damaged wrist
and Gary Bergstrom (Suzuki) who

finished second and third respectively.
This was the only heat Gary Bergstrom
was to finish with chain and electrics
causing him to retire in the other two.

Grant Maben was again leading the
second heat when a thrown chain

stopped him and Tissen inherited the

lead and pulled out nearly a lap's lead

on second placed Darryl Werner Shahn Rowe previous to his giant get-off at Hammarsdale (Photo: J. Tissiman)
making it a Yamaha 1 - 2 with
newcomer Gary Keyser third on his
Honda. followed by Roy Gardner and

Shahn Rowe. Championship leader
Deon du Plessis was having an unlucky

day with tumbles and problems, the

third heat saw his best placing of the

day finishing third behind winner

Maben and game Tissen. Charlie was
to run out 125 winner of the day

followed by Maben and Keyser.

Rubbish, the whole lot of them. Rubbish.
(Photo: J. Tissiman)

Send him to take pictures of motocross and
what happens? linda Hayas

(Photo: Richard Domaris)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept. 78 Page13

250 MX Seniors Last Vear's 250 champ gassin it. Rod Bergstrom. (Photo: J.Tlsslmanl
In the first heat, Stevenson ran out a
Beattie. getting his best placing in second slot
clear winner on the Kawasaki and In the third heat, "Iron Man" ahead of Graham Green, Barrv
judging from his performance all year, Falconer and Chris Brand.
many people expected Stevie to clean McMillan again triumphed with Trefz
up - but this was not to be. Rod
Bergstrom finished a good second and Grant In his usual style till chain problems left him with 2nd overall
was in fact to keep this position every
heat. Rob Wicks, Payless/Honda
finished third just ahead of Hopkins
and Gwillam.

Wicks showed his mastery in the
second mota ahead of Rod Bergstrom
and Stevenson whose motor was
beginning to sound noisy and finally
expired during the last heat. Peter Hill
(Husky) got his best result of the day in
this second heat finishing 5th just
behind Garth Gwillam (KTM).

The final heat produced only eight
finishers out of the initial entry of
nearly 40. Wicks was by now
completely dominating this class and
with the Kawa out, it was again Rod
behind followed by fellow Natalian
Gwillam and Mike Hopkins. Local East
London rider Gavin Whyte on his
Scheckter Harris Honda got his highest
placing here in sixth position behind
Martin Jones' Suzuki.

500 MX Seniors
Husqvarna rider Chris Brand won

the first heat with Ian McMillan
sidelined with mechanical problems.
Graham Green finished second on his
Suzuki, followed by the Yamahas of
Trefz and Beattie. In the second heat
however, McMillan was off like a
rocket and easily won, ahead of team
mate Green. Tommy Trefz was third
followed by Brand, Falconer and

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7

" OVERALL RESULTS

Charlie Tissen put in tremendous come-from- behind dashes as he 'boogied' 125
around the sandy circuit. (Photo: J. TissimanI
1. Tissen
2. Maben
3. Keyser
4. Werner
5. du Plessis
6. Gardner
7. Campbell
8. Bergstrom
9. Rowe
10. Cramer

250

Wicks
R. Bergstrom
Stevenson
Gwillam
Hopkins
Jones
Hill
Whyte
H. Bergstrom
Keyser

500

Green
Trefz
McMillan
Brand
Falconer
Beattie
Hirsch
White
Kruger
Kulikowski

Richard Domeris

**********

Vou get mechanics and then you get mechanics. Tommy Trefz and enlisted help. KAWASAKI

(Photo: J. TissimanI -MOTORCYCLES

BEST USED BIKES
AT UNREAL
PRICES

FINANCE
ARRANGED

•

TRADE-INS
ACCEPTED
(CARS AS WELL)

208 MAIN STREET,

JOHANNESBURG
23-7853/22-9643

Tyrone Stevenson could not come home with this round as he was again plagued
by bike problems. (Photo: Richard Domeris)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept, 78 Page15

LAVERDA tOoo ..,3C

The modern bike rider is spoiled for riding the bike for a couple of hundred
choice. Good bikes are as common as k's and stopping for a smoke the
ants in an anthill. There are bikes starter refused to work, we traced the
around that can take you from problem to a loose wire on the switch
Johannesburg to Cape Town, or to itself, but for this small problem the
work through morning traffic. But electrics of the starter coudn't be
while all these bikes have a name for faulted at all.
reliability and power, only a few
possess the ingredients of soul and The choke is very difficult to use as it is
charisma. These are usually quoted as situated under the left front of the
excuses for temperament and un- tank. On the test bike I used, the choke
reliability, seldom do you get power, had to be left in operation until the bike
reliability and charisma in one bike. The had warmed up sufficiently and this
Laverda 3C is the latest member of this presented a problem when trying to
select group. disengage the choke. The clutch is
very smooth, although heavier than the
The 3C is very new to the South Jap bikes, I did not find this tiring, even
African market, but already it's name is when riding in town. The gear lever is
being heard among the Super bikes. fitted to the right side of the bike, and
The styling is very pleasant to look at this takes some getting used to, as you
and the colours the machine comes keep wanting to brake with the gear
out in are plain and very well finished lever. The gearbox is quite smooth, but
off. The finely cast wheels, the first when it gets hot, neutral is difficult to
class triple disc brake, the excellent find.
ceriani suspension and the fine
handling frame all add up to a bike that The accelerator feels light with none of
you would be proud to be seen on. the painful return spring nonsense
Standing still the machine looks like a some bikes inflict. Pulling off from
fast moving thoroughbred. Sitting standstill you can feel that the motor
astride the bike you immediately notice has torque from tickover.
the norrowness marded only by the Going through the gears, the bi ke is
buldge of the alternator on the right
side. very smooth, and top gear gives you
There is no kick starter fitted (this
seems to be the in thing on big bikes 100 km/h at a leisurely 4,000 R.P.M.
today.) The starter button is on the Vibration is minimal and doesn't
right side of the handlebars. After intrude or cause fatigue. When doing
high speeds for long intervals; of time
it becomes uncomfortable as the
footrests are a little too far forward.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept. 78 Page16

the feeling that you can ride forever is Claimed p'ower:~ 81 bhp.
due to the adjustable handlebars and
comfortable, although firm seat. You Carburation:- Three Dellorto 32mm
can adjust the handlebars from a
crouch to an extremely upright touring carbs
stance. But stop you must, and quite
often as the tank range is plus minus Primary Drive:- Triplex chain with
200 k's.
slipper tensioner 2,04:1 ratio
The test bike I rode had covered just
over 3,000 k's and was still very tight. Gearbox:- Five speed

Duke Mach " Motors who are 1st - 2.857
importers of Laverda, state that the top
speed is around 210 km/h. when the 2nd -1.883
bike is run in. (plus minus 7 000 k's).
The highest speed I could get out of 3rd - 1.373
the bike was a shade over 180 km/h,
but you could feel that the jetting was 4th - 1.173
out and I am sure that the 210 km/h
claimed is not rubbish. 5th - 1.1 direct.

The red line begins at 6,500 rpm. and The only real competition the 3C has is Clutch:- Wet Multiplate
ends at 7,500 rpm. and at 210 km/h the Mota Guzzi 1000SP and the B.M.W. Dry weight:- 214 kilograms
you would be doing just under 7,500 100RS. The Laverda 3C is an all round Fuel tank caJ;!acity:- 19 litres
rpm. So it is obvious that the factory tourer and sportster and an exceptional Brakes:- Three .280mm Brembo disc
does not encourage cruising between good bike.
190 and 210 km/h all day long. The system
headlamp is excellent using a 60/65 w Iyres:- Front - 410 x 18 Dunlop TI1 00
globe and is safe on unlit roads at
night. The twin hooters mounted Rear - 4.25 x 18 Dunlop
below the headlamp are loud enough
to give any dozy driver a quick SPECIFICATIONS TI100
awakening. The indicators are large
and round, and give ample warning for ENGINE ELECTRICS
anybody approaching or following you.
Italian motorcycles have a reputation ~s!Racity.:- 981 cc Jgnition sy~ Bosch electronic
for good handling and the Laverda 3C
is no exception. Roadholding is good, Bore & Stroke:- 75 x 74mm flywheel magneto with external coils.
and the bike is rock steady at 150
km/h in a straight line. The bike stuck Iy.Re:- Generator:- 140 W.A.C.
to it's line in a fast sweeping bend, and
the addition of a passenger made no Three cylinder with crankpins spaced Battery~ 12 volt 32 AH
difference at all. Damping on the front
and rear shock are good, and rear at 180 degrees, chain driven double Starter motor:- 0.5 bhp.
spring preload adjustment is made
easy by built in levers on each overhead camshafts. The cylinder head Headlamp...;.:60/65 Watt Halogen, 7 Y2
shockabsorber. The standard TT1 00
tyres added to the feeling of security. has cast iron valve seats, and the inches in diameter.
Braking is taken care of by two 11inch
discs up front and one 11inch disc at cylinders have cast iron valve seats,
the rear. All three discs are cast-iron
and performed perfectly, as is typical and the cylinders have cast iron liners. Mike Bucknall(Testrider)
of Brembo.
.GmnP.ression Ratio:- 9.0:1

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ••••••••••
••
• ••••
• ••••••• ••
•••• FOR YOUR LAVERDA RANGE OF MOTORCYCLES COME TO: •
I ake- i
ac.h
Another usual fitting missing from the !i=• !i•=
Laverda 3C is the side stand. But the II
centre stand is so good you wonder
why a side stand was ever invented.
The centre stand is so well designed
that merely standing on it's extremety

with your right foot accomplishes the • 66 SIVEWRIGHT AVENUE, DOORNFONTEIN, JHB. •
task without any sweat. =••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••=Tel. 23-7240
'The 3C will tour as well as a Honda
Goldwing. But the two machines are
poles apart in concept and execution.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept, 78 Page17





Grant and Gary dice it out. (Photo: Seymour Smith)

....

man, this is what I call riding .... Man, this

is what I called riding (Photo: Seymour Smith)

""

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept,78 P_O·21

Kenny van der Merwe getting high? ...is high! (Photo: Gary Whyte)

'With JT I am No.1'. (Photo: Gary Whyte) 'With Renold I am No.2 .IPhoto: Gary Whyte)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept,78 Page22

Craig Whyte, within the leaders since his Hi Spee#l
possession of the RM 125c. (H/School Motors
support). (Photo: Gary Whyte).

Servicing, Tune-ups,
and Engine

Modifications
are our

Speciality.

WORKSHOP:
Errol Norval &
Frik v.d. Westhuizen.

633 ONTDEKKERS ROAD
DELAREY
ROODEPOORT 1725

(Photo: Gary Whyte)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept, 78 Page23

,

/J,,;T fp

JJ ';.407'0

.~ ~{"fI

· ~~ · ";If /Jr ~ J

~1 iXV~> ~P!~~~~",<
H4ff'1 ,,1f1IP"!
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~ -1Jb~ Si ,€. .

~ IA.' .,.~ (" a.fó --

+tapf(f ~ If.ctj' lYIe/-o X 5/).

~~



Mike BucknaIl

The State of the Art. B.M.W:s majestic 1000. If it don't have knobby tyres, why bother?
(Photo: Gary Whyte) (Photo: Gary Whyte)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept. 78 Page26

Honda's new mini-bike. The awesome EL Big'o as seen from behind.
Magnum 6 drew more than just passing glances. (Photo: Gary Whyte)

(Photo: Gary Whyte)

GUZZI (PTV) LTD

71 END STREET (CORNER PRITCHARD ST.l
JOHANNESBURG 2001

23-8829 23-9571

Moto Guzzi had a few of their excellent
machines on display. (Photo:Gary Whyte,

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept, 78 Page27

- ..,.

"'MorO-(..RD'i>~ P/?DMOTG5 F((/£NDLY (Dt-tPefm tiéALitt fiNO FITNESS.

.. f~"'"It '"YE,1ttf Yot.( uE. T F= IT
l
If NOT j!jMONC, THE NiRéNfS. (C.YN£C.~ \flEw t..IF TlNCiz MEI.
CJ1NS" (_~)
IfMOrO-c.RCf.~ f>fCV'I(X;S ~ WINNE£(
f'.tUSIc..l>'r":
WiTH M~N't' '(OPHYS . .DOé:~ (it:
fHE KNO - sr:£$ j
...' 'P1~TolN~ TH E. f(é~C6;
~SH TIiEv.-i? ctO$-u.P~

"NO , Hé POlV\J$ T HtM., vtFrER. ni~KI()~ .

\\

AU- MX IS E~Pétl5/I/é!

((.YNic.s VltW.)



Hopkins tries his luck on an RM125

For only the second time this year

the Nomad's motocross track on the

Bottieray Road in Brackenfell was used

to stage an official competition. Their

very first meeting in January was

abandoned when the A.A. refused to

sanction them a race permit until track

modifications had been carried out.

The track is totally opposite to the

Killarney circuit where sand

predominates. Here the ground is hard

and stoney, which gives the big

machines a better chance, as it is

longer and generally a much faster

track.

The meeting itself was well

organised being under the control of

Roy Robertson and Clive Hausberger.

The only pity being the very dusty

conditions which prevailed as the

afternoon wore on. This however did

not deter the riders from producing This is why the corner became known as "Conrad's corner". Conrad Meyer
some of the best riding seen locally for making himself famous the hard way. (Photo: Viv Zimmerman)
a long time.

Missing from the list of entrants was enthusiastic and lost it at one stage an escape route which took him over
Bunny Shandler (knee operation). which dropped him right back. Carl the top of the berm, but he was able to
Arnold Burton (smashed collarbone van Rooyen showed marked hold on and keep going.
while practising two weeks earlier) and
Dave Souma (wrenched knee at a P.T. improvement by finishing third in two Heat 2. In this race we saw de
session at school. Who says motocross of the three events and fifth in the Hutton really come back to form.
is dangerous!)
other. Racing along with Cooper and Naylor
The very first event of the day - the Excellent racing was witnessed in the the three of them had the crowd agog
125cc event for senior riders - had its 250cc seniors race. The race started off with excitement as positions changed
surprises from the start when Mike at a blistering pace with Billy Cooper often. It was only towards the end of
Hopkins was seen wheeling Mark showing the field the way out of the the race that Cooper managed to get
Connelly's spare bike to the start line. start. Mike Hopkins, on the new Suzuki to the front to be ahead of de Hutton
250 C2 made a frantic effort to catch and Naylor.
Alistair Stuart-White provided the Cooper, yet he only managed to keep
next surprise when he holed out like a him within his sights. Third, fourth, The consolation event went to
jack rabbit in front of Connelly and Fifth and sixth places were also being Dennis Rattey with "Peanut" Jefferey
Hopkins. He and Connelly raced away hotly contested with the riders pulling and "Frenchy" Vachaudez filling the
from the rest of the field and one can other two places.
only surmise Hopkins was unable to out all the stops. Simon Patterson and
catch them due to the strangeness of Dennis Naylor (both of whom are Excitement, like the dust, could
the little machine and its handling showing vastly improved form over last almost be cut with a knife as the 21
characteristics. Nonetheless he was riders lined up for the final.
still able to show the other regular 125 season's display) fought out third
riders the way home. place, while Derek de Hutton seemed As the elastic was released Cooper
to be again showing the form he was and Hopkins came off the line with
Stuart-White and Connelly were displaying at the end of last season as their front wheels high in the air as they
circulating very fast and swopping he raced with Mike Hermanson for fifth raced for the first corner. Hopkins got
places just as quickly. This went on for place. With only metres to go he took there first on the inside line and was
14 of the 15 minutes plus one lap race an inside line to squeeze past intent on staying there. Cooper, try as
until a spoke gave way in Stuart- Hermanson and reach the flag ahead he may, made no impression on
White's rear wheel, causing the others "Hoppy" and his task was made rio
to work loose and so put him out of the of him.
race. Mark Connelly went on to win Nine riders from each óf the two easier by the dust which was being
quite comfortably thereafter with worked up around the track.
Hopkins inheriting second place and seperate championship heats along
Kevin Atkins third. with the first three of the consolation De Hutton, Naylor, Patterson and
event were to go forward to the final. Hermanson picked up the threads of
The junior riders had three races So while the "men" were being sorted their dice in the 250cc race and
during the afternoon, all of which were out from the "boys" so to speak, we enthralled the crowd with a show of
15 minutes plus one lap. Each was witnessed some more good racing. fine racing and handling of their
dominated by Neil Johnson who won machines, until de Hutton came adrift
all three. Roy Pheiffer rode consistently Mike Hopkins registered his first win halfway through the race. He made a
to take second place overall with 34 of the day in the first heat riding well quick recovery and set of after
points. Mike Hope picked up a second, ahead of the field. Surprisingly enough Hermanson, who had been left behind
a sixth and a second, which dropped he was followed to the finish line by by Naylor and Patterson. Naylor
him in the placings a bit. Had he been two 125's ridden by Connelly and eventually got in front of Patterson and
able to hold his second place in the Stuart-White who had been duelling set about catching Cooper, who, at
second race he would have done that with Hermanson on his 400cc Suzuki. this stage, had begun to relax his
much better, but he became over- Mark Connelly must be congratulated efforts, being content with an easy
on a fine piece of riding in avoiding a second place. Suddenly Naylor was in
fallen rider as he and Hopkins came close contention and Cooper had to do
into a fast corner side by side. He took some fast ridin_gto keep him out.

Móto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept, 78 Page30

While all this was going on de G. Beale - going down a "one way" the wrong way. He managed to get it
Hutton had been steadily reeling in straight in the end. (Photo: Viv Zimmerman)
Hermanson as each successive lap
went by. With time running out he got
close enough to again challenge
Hermanson, which he did, and by
again taking an inside line at what has
become known as "Conrad's corner"
due to the fact that Conrad Meyer has
had a number of spills there, he nipped
through as Hermanson went slightly
.wlde, The result: Hopkins, Cooper,
Naylor, Patterson, de Hutton and
Hermanson.

Viv Zimmerman

Paging through the nationals to see their names displayed and on an

programme it was interesting to note MX bike and its rider there is just no

there were 158 entrants in all classes. place - agreed, but - what the

77 from the Transvaal, two from programme and the plugs received

Rhodesia, 18 from Natal, two from over the public address systems.

East London, seven from Port While writing a treatise on the
Elizabeth and 49 from Cape Town. 36 subject doesn't necessarily help get
of the Transvaal entrants had sponsors sponsorship, one hopes it will

against their names. 11 Natalians had encourage riders to go out and look a
sponsorship, while less than half the little harder for a sponsor and perhaps

Cape Town contingent carried look a little harder at their own

sponsorship 21 sponsored, 28 endeavours to the extent of improving
their riding ability to encourage greater
.. .,... unsponsored - and to my mind that is spectator appeal and also attract
sponsors.
IS IT REALLY A LACK the reason for the difference in the
Who knows - we may yet see
OF FUNDS? competitive spirit.

(or is Motocross not reaching It is tremendous to see the co-

the Public as it should . . .) operation and cameraderie among our another Western Cape rider take the

What are the reasons for the riders, borrowing, lending, even fixing national honours in the near future as
apparent gap in the riding ability and
competition standards of the local another's machine - but this doesn't did Mike Hopkins last season in the
participants and that of the other two
major provinces participating in the make for a strong competitive spirit, or 500cc class.
sport of mota-cross?
the will to win. One of our famed rugby Viv Zimmerman
This thought crossed my mind as I players was once heard to say "Nice
sat and reflected on the club meeting
which had just been held. The guys come second". Our nice guys are
conclusion I came to could be summed
up in one word - money. **********even getting the opportunity to come

Scanning the local programme of second, let alone first.
some 55 entries in all classes I sawthat
there were but two teams being Perhaps the sport needs more
supported by companies not directly
involved in the motor trade - Transcape money on the promotional side - SERVICE AT
Steels and Kings Transport. Each of perhaps even a promotions manager is
these supporting three riders. There
were some 18 riders receiving some needed to get the sport in front of Mr. KAWASAKI
form of sponsorship from those in the and Mrs. Public and family.
trade. This still left a massive 31 riders
struggling on their own. It definately could do with a financial -KLINIC
injection to the contestants side.
To degress a little, let me hasten to TUNE-UPS
add that there are the usual cigaret What chance has an up and coming
liquor and petrol companies along with rider got if he can only afford to
a local tyre retreading company which practise every second week because of
have donated advertising signs, pit
areas, starters box, lap scorer's hut and a lack of funds. Then too for the same REPAIRS
clubhouse. To these we are most reason he will nurse his bike just in
grateful. Yet - the riders get very little. case some expensive sounds start to -ON ACCOUNT
usher forth from the motor.
JOBS TO ALL
With a sponsor these fears would be
allayed and knowing full - well his
sponsor expects good performance he

will give of his best - all the time. MAKES OF BIKES
When more riders are able to obtain

more sponsorship here in the Western

PANELBEATING &Cape then a greater competitiveness

will be seen. RESPRAYING
In the five classes contested for the

S.A. Championships - this excludes

mini-crossers - the Western Cape

boasts but two in any of the top ten of 208 MAIN STREET,
any of the classes. Mike Hopkins at JOHANNESBURG
present' fills fourth spot afterthe 23-7853/22-9643

second round of the championships in

the 250cc class and Bunny Shandler
props up the 500cc class in tenth spot.
\
••••••••••It has been argued that sponsors like
Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept,78 Page 31





Martin Jones was settling down nicely on his The effect of the' No Dive' front suspension system was

rne-w-R-ed-R-o-ck-et-(P-h-oto-: -G-ar-y -Wh~y~te)-------- ~clearly evident when garth got on his binders

.. Gary Keyser complementing
Hammarsdale's picturesque
surroundings. (Photo: Gary Whyte)

Clive Muir precariously near the edge of a big big hill. (Photo: Gary Whyte'

Natal's Brian McGarry narrowly avoid. centre-punching Downed No. 38 almost busting his pants picking up
downed No. 38 his machine.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept,78 Pag.34

Johannesburg distributors of Sole South African Importers
Kawasaki motorcycles and Distributors of KTM
and spares. motorcycles and spares.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept,78 Page3S

Transvaal Championships - Charlie barely ahead of Grant in the thick yellow sandy first turn.
leeukuil - 22nd July 1978 (Photo: Gary Whyte)

The new look track laid out at Leeukuil Charles Bezuidenhout looking fearsome. (Photo: Gary Whyte).
was somewhat disappointing in that
the new sections caused a
considerable amount of dust that
proved unpleasant for riders and
spectators alike. While the track was
less demanding and bumpy than the
previous two occasions, it was never-
theless, a tough test of motocross.
Apart from the incredible Grant Maben
who seems to fly in any conditions, the
Vaal track once again proved to be a
happy hunting ground for 125cc junior
star Kenny van der Merwe. Few senior
riders, let alone juniors, revel in the
conditions at Leeukuil to the extent
that Kenny does.
After winning the first heat of the
125cc juniors at a trot, Kenny was
home and dry in the second, when a
lap or so from the chequered flag, his
Honda spluttered to a halt, giving Tony
Riddel a first to follow up his second
place in the first heat, for an overall win
of the day. Russel Campbell had one of
his better meetings lately, taking to
third places, while symm Grobler
finished fourth and second respectively
in the two heats.

Gary Beuthin took both heats of the
100cc junior class with some fine
riding, with Grant McCleery filling
second spot behind him. Other front
runners were Neil Riddel, Mark Lamb,
Andrew Carr and Leon Mathews.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept, 78 Page 36

Lower down the age scale, Charles

Bezuidenhout had a field day in the

minicross, winning both heats ahead of

Gary butcher and John Hardiman.

As usual, the 125cc senior events

provided most of the excitement, and

on this occasion it was Charlie Tissen

who gave Maben a go. Getting the

holeshot in the first heat, Tissen kept

Maben at bay for two laps, but once

Grant was ahead, he never looked back

and won with comparative ease with

Charlie second, Deon du Plessis third

followed by Greg Wilson Roy Gardner,

Nicky Milosevich, Tommy Maben and

Wayne Attwell. The second heat

started in similar fashion with Tissen

ahead of Maben, but this time Tissen

gave Maben a tremendous dice. Grant

managed to get past Charlie on about

the third lap, but Charlie hung on

grimley, keeping excitement alive all

the time. The final order was Maben,

Tissen, Keyser, du Plessis, Milosevich, Thenew6cylinderHondaCBXMagnuml000.

Campbell, Wilson, Gardner and Dirt Bike specials this month

Cramer. Enter the Win a 6 competition BENONI

Because of small entries in both HONDA;

classes, the 250cc and 500cc MX were

combined. It was interesting to see 36 Kempston Avenue Benoni Tel. 54·6571

amongst the 250cc entries that three

top riders had forsaken their previous

mounts in favour of Red Rocket

Honda's, and the changeover certainly

made a difference to their

performances. Peter Hill (formerly

Husky), Roy Sturgeon (ex KTM) and

Martin Jones who rode Suzuki, looked

far more competitive this time out.

Maben again proved that his

reputation was well founded, winning

the first heat by the proverbial mile

from Martin Jones and Peter Hill, while

Tyronne Stevenson fought back after a

shocking start to finish sixth on his

Kawasaki. With Stevenson hole

shotting the second heat, it looked as

though the crowd was in for a rare

treat with Grant Maben chasing a very

determined Stevenson. Unfortunately

Tyrone's mount packed up on him,

thus robbing spectators of a great race.

Peter Hill took second with Martin

Jones third, giving the Red Rockets a

clean sweep for the day. Best of the

500cc competitors was Chris Brand

and Henri Steyn.

Clive Strugnell maintained his position

in the Championships by taking the

250cc Enduro class from Allan Phillips

and Greg Upton, while the first three in

the 500cc section were Erwin

Wallenda, Kevin Sjoldhammer and

Dave Hill.

Buddy Attwell

lucky leeukuil doesn't have Cape winds
otherwise Rooivink and control tower
collapses. (Photo: Gary Whyte)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept.78 Page37.

Everyone avoiding the camera in case someone should see
the terror in their eyes. (Photo: Gary Whyte)

Mid pack action with Tommy Maben, Deon du Plessis, Gary Draper, Robert Campbell, Brian Becker and Roy Gardner
tightly knitted. (Ph~to: Gary Whyte)

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept,78 Page38

ANDREW TROW - The up and
coming rider of Sandton Panelbeaters

3RD AVENUE, WYNBERG, SANDTON.
TELEPHONE: 786-8003.



comprehensive Tool kit and puncture YAMAHA
repair kit, a tyre pump first aid kit and a
steel belt for locking the bike securely.
The only thing missing from this mag-
nificent machine is a liquor cabinet and
ashtray.

SPECIFICATIONS •LINEX
1) Air cooled four stroke flat twin
2) Capacity 9BOcc MOTORS
3) Output 51.6 kW (70 bhp) at 7250
63 Hans Strydom Ave.
R.P.M. Cnr. Central Rd.
4) 5 speed gearbox with shaft drive Linden Ext.
5) Fuel capacity 24 lit res inclusive of 46-7075
46-4767
a 4,5 litre reserve
PERFORMANCE YOUR YAMAHA DEALER
1) 0 -1 OOkm/h 4.5 sec. INTHE NORTH
2) Quarter mile 13.3 sec.
3) Standing kilometer 25.3 SEC. See Danny Mulder for the best
Yamaha deal, and get a free T-
shirt with every bike purchased.

PRICE AROUND RG 297,00 PLUS clean multiracial ablution blocks, SUBSCRIBE ..
SALES TAX
----------------' grandstand seating for 3000 and an NOW!!.
Transvaal Motocross will in future
stage events at the Tarlton almost dust free circuit made possible **********
International Raceway, South Africa's by the use of an underground sprinkler
top dragstrip and rated one of the top ACCESSORIES
ten in the world. system. HIGH
Construction of the most modern
motocross facility in the country is The pit area is situated at the northern PERFORMANCE
scheduled to start soon at the KITS
Raceway near Krugersdorp. The track end of the site, is fully grassed and
is planned to be completed in time for FOR ALL MAKES
the Sportsman Lager Champion of served by a tar road. Competitors will OF BIKES
Champions event in November.
Spectators will enjoy top class catering not have to rely on their own cleaning 208 MAIN STREET,
and refreshment facilities, sparkling JOHANNESBURG
equipment when they come to race at 23-7853/22-9643
VICTORY
FOR S.A. the Raceway a multi-boothed

Kork Ballington of South Africa enclosure will be erected in the pits
recently won the world 350cc
championship in the British Motor- where machines can be cleaned.
cycling Grand Prix at Silverstone. Tom
Herron (Ireland) and Mick Grant The circuit will be landscaped and by
(Britain) took second and third place
respectively. nature of the site, will be fast but safe.

The circuit is planned to include as

many varying conditions for riders as

possible, such as sand (similar to

coastal circuits) and mud and gravel

(as found in the Transvaal). Race

control officials, commentators and

the media will be housed in a two

storey control tower.

Transvaal Motocross was formerly

based at Brickor near Jan Smuts

Airport. The circuit was recently closed

by the Germiston Municipality and the

club was then forced to use an

undeveloped, yet natural, site at

Spaarwater near Nigel.

Mick van Rensburg, the "Big Daddy"
of South African drag racing and
owner of the Tarlton International
Raceway, heard of the club's plight
and offered the use of his facilities at
Tarlton.

Negotiations were successful and
Transvaal Motocross has found a
horne at South Africa's most modern
motorsport centre.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept. 78 Page 41

One of South Africa's most famous
motor sportsmen of 15 years ago -
Tony Mags - has won another race.
The former works Grand Prix driver
came home first in a novice foot-ups
motor cycle trial at Mooikloof, near
Pretoria, this month.
And nobody recognised him.
"No - I'm not contemplating a come-
back," said Tony, now a Northern
Transvaal farmer. "It's just that I enjoy
foot-ups. It's more of an old man's
sport!"

Tony, now 41, took his Yamaha
foot 250cc foot-ups bike into a clear
win in the novice section of trial run
over a 10 km course consisting of 10
sections each lap.
"1 started getting interested in the
sport about six months ago", said the
man who once drove racing cars for
Grand Prix team manager, Ken Tyrrel
and who was team-mate to the famous
Bruce McLaren in the Cooper Formula
One cars.
"But I only ride in little club events - for
fun more than anything else."
Tony practises his Yamaha over the
dongas and anthills at his cattle and
wheat farm near Potgietersrus and
reckons that the Yamaha keeps him fit
- as well as on his toes! "You spend
most of your time standing up ... this is
where the good balance helps a lot,"
he says.
Fifteen years ago Tony Mags was a
name as well known as Dave Charlton
or Ian Scheckter in South Africa today.
After his contracted Formula Junior
drives with Ken Tyrrel in Europe Tony
moved into Grand Prix racing, taking
time off to win the well-known former
Kyalami Nine Hours twice with David
Piper in a Ferrari. He retired after the
sport in 1965 after an accident at Roy
Hesketh circuit in Pietermaritzburg.
His recent competitive outings do not
mean that he is hankering after a drive
in a racing car.
"On the contrary," he said ... "1 am
perfectly happy to fiddle around with
my Yamaha. But I must admit, it's nice
to win again!"

Castrol

South African motorcyclists have
taken to Castrol's specially developed
motorcycle oils in a big way. "Sales of
Castrol Grand Prix Four-stroke
motorcycle oil and super TT for two-
stroke machines have been much
higher than initially anticipated," said
Deryck Spence, Castrol's marketing
manager, "indicating that South
Africa's motor-cyclists are no longer
prepared to make do with oils designed
for cars, in today's sophisticated and
expensive two-wheelers." Ask Grand
Prix girl, Lisa, who says its a matter of
different strokes for different folks.

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept. 78 Page 42

Sranch of The Sport1JC.r Club of SOU", Africa •nUl IIIVI Clil
Of:~AFAICA

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLEnER OF THE FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUB OF
SOUTH AFRICA.

ADDRESS: 7th Floor. Standard Bink Gallery., C/r. Eloff and Market Streets,
Johannesburg. P.O. Box 3085, Johannesburg, 2000.

TELEPHONt:: (011· JH8.1 22·2463

TEL. ADD.: 'MOTOR SPORT'

COMMITTEE

Chairman: Austin Friend 672·3736 (HI
Vice Chairman: Robin Hood 48·9500 (BI

Secretary: Liz Herron 016-64781 (HI
Treasurer: Chris Roos 48·7408 (Hl
Editor: Peter Achterberg
B36·3601 Ext. 174 (BI
Organising Secretary: Robin Hood 672·5198 (HI
Technical Information Officer: Peter Mounsear Wilson 48·9500 (B)
Radio Officer: Joe Davy 609·2713 (HI
Committee: Herbert FoscHetti 826·1036 (HI
Brian Eldridge 972·1307 (HI
All the above Ire Johannesburg Vic Herron 763·5656 (HI
Mark Bowden .........•...... 016-61638 (BI
Ivor Karan 675-4480 (B)
Gavin Riley 0151·5028 (H)
Telephone numbers uni .

hown with. dilIIng cod.

Editorial Address: Tht Editor, 4 x 4 Club of S.A., P.O. Box 659, FLORIDA 1710.

RO E

PARTS a ACCESSORIES

CONTACT

JOE DAVY

at

61S-3940

daytona leyland

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept,78 Page43

amps.The output is switched in steps

of 10 or 15 amps, and is selected to

suit the electrode and thickness of the

metal to be welded.

The smaller transformers are air

If all the complaints] I hear are true, are prepared to become involved in cooled, up to 100/120 amps, whereas
then this edition of .Moto X S A is the trying to make their club newsletter larger capacity units are oil cooled. For
first that some of you have received for interesting. The club newsletter is welding of thin sheet - up to 3 or 4mm
a few months. Whilst I will concede undoubtably the life line of our club, a thick, an air cooled unit of up to 120
that a few members may not have club which is spread all over the amps is normally adequate, while for
received their editions to date I know country. I hope that the new club
that some people have been shouting editor, who was elected at our AGM in use on heavy chassis brackets, farm
just for the sakelof shouting. Many August, will have more success than I machinery, cast iron and aluminium
people have annoyed me intensely by had in trying to get people involved. castings, a unit which gives up to 200,
or even 250 amps will be required.

telephoning and threatening that if Finally I would like to congratulate Ivor b) ACCESSORIES

they do not receive their newsletters Karram on his success in the 1978 An arc welders helmet or screen will

regularly they will not renew their Castrolinternational Rally. Having only be needed - the arc emits intense

su bscriptions. been involved in rallying for 7 months ultra violet (UV) radiation, which

To them I say, take your money and he achieved a very creditable .18th 'causes severe "sunburn" of the eye,

take out a subscription for Mota X SA position, out of 56 starters. Well done usually spoken of as "sand behind the

directly. The subscription money that Ivor. eyeball". This can severly damage the

you pay yearly to the SCC is to be a eye, and delicate skin can also be badly

member of one of the branches of the sunburnt by UV radiation. A medical

SCC, and not a subscription for Mota preparation called "Arceye" relieves

XSA. JOINING METALS the symtoms of UV burns : very

Whilst every care is taken in preparing - A Series in the art of welding - eficiently.

the newsletter and ensuring that The joining of metals is of great Cables, electrode holder, earthing

members do receive their copies of the concern to anyone involved in repair, clamp and chipping hammer will also

magazine, the committee of the 4x4 maintenance or construction of be required, along with a pack of

club, nor I am responsible for vehicles. If you use your 4x4 to the full, appropriate electrodes.

irregularities that may occur in the or if you race it, it will already be WELDING

posting of the magazine. I am aware. apparent to you that the ability to weld The earth electrode is clamped to

that in the post not all members have or otherwise join metals is almost the workpiece, and the welding

received their copies of the newsletter essential if you are to keep on the road. electrode is placed in the holder. The

but the problem has now been solved. (Or on the off-road, if you like). helmet is put on, and the welder is

And now onto matters more This series is divided into 5 parts, switched on. What do we do now?

pleasant. In June Total S.A. once and is intended to give an overview of An arc must be struck - and

again held a braai for the organising' techniques, applications, equipment maintained. This causes more difficulty

committee and other members of the and supplies. than almost any thing else in welding.

4x4 club and others who assisted with Beginning with Arc welding, it is The welding rod is tapped or scraped

the 1978 Total Transkalahari Road intended to cover brazing/bronze lightly on the workpiece, which causes

Race. To Total, Derrick and Sylvia welding, gas welding, rivetting, and an arc. The rod is withdrawn slightly

Dickens, thank you very much. miscellaneous techniques. At the from the workpiece, leaving an arc

At the June noggin the Four Wheel outset, it must be stressed that this between the rod and the workpiece.

Drive Club of S.A. presented Jean and series is not intended to be a detailed The rod is moved slowly along the

John Salters with a clock in "how-to", but where necessary will joint, which allows the molten metal

appreciation for all the hard work that refer to publications written by transfered by the arc to the joint, to

they put into the Transkalahari Raad authorities or companies, which will add to the pool of molten metal at the

Race. The best news of all is that John give those interested a greater insight. base of the arc. The flux on the outside

is again prepared to assist in the into metal joining. of the rod causes a liquid and gasses

organising of the 1979 event. PARTONE shield around the molten pool,

For the 1978 Castrolinternational Rally ARC WELDING preventing oxidation.

the 4x4 club and ORRA were This is the cheapest and most The rate of travel along the joint is

approached by Francis Tucker, Clerk of versatile method of joining various determined by the thickness of the

the Course of the event, to provide a metals together. metal, the desired amount of metal in

medical and recovery service. A report The base metals are rendered molten the joint; if a particularly thick fillet is

on our performance is included in this by the heat from an electric arc struck required, several passes of the joint

edition. between an electrode and the base must be made. .

Charlie Treen has prepared a very metal. Molten filler metal, and a When a run over the joint has been

interesting series of articles entitled, cleaning, liquidising flux are carried by made, a layer of glassy slag will be

"Joining Metals" and this edition sees the arc, and deposited in a pool of found to cover the weld. A sharp

part 1 thereof. molten metal at the base of the arc, 'chipping' hammer is used to shatter

For 2 years now I have been thus filling the joint. the slag and expose the virgin weld

responsible for the preparation of Various types of filler rod are available, metal.

"Club News" and now the time has varying from general purpose mild Striking the arc depends upon the

come for someone else to take over. In steel, to types suitable for welding VW selection of the correct cu rrent for the

writing editorials monthly for club crankcases (magnesium alloy), electrode in use. Too low, and the arc

news it often seemed to me like an aluminium, or for hard facing corroded will not maintain - too high, and the

article called "In my View". Although I or worn surfaces. rod will stick to the workpiece, and will

have enjoyed doing it very much, I Essential equipment comprises: overheat. Practise makes perfect,

think club members are tired of my a) Transformer. . almost.

gripes and now the new editor can This normally runs off the domestic Success in arc welding depends on

start and his stint of "In my View". It is 220v supply. and gives a voltage of seven items:

such a pity that so very few members between 35 and 80v at up to 250 1. Correct electrode material

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 NO.7 Sept, 78 Paqe 44







(Castrol

Britain's Tony Pond and Dave
Richards in their Castro I Chevair,
winners of the Castro I International
Rally, seen in one of the special
stages during this gruelling event.

Your Natal

Jeep

Dealer

Moto X & Bike News SA Vol. 2 No.7 Sept, 78 Page48