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26 MAY - 8 JUNE 2022/ VOL 71/ № 23 QuickSpin →
contents GasGas has built
its first roadbike.
THIS IS WHERE YOU START We have ridden
it, and what we
reckon is on
p38
Ridden/Tested 32
38 BEEFY SLIDER
Getting the knee down on GasGas’s SM 700
44 SKILFUL SWAGGER
The retro, modern, Bonniest Triumph T120
Features
32 FORCE QUIT!
Suzuki’s exit from MotoGP has sent a shockwave
through the paddock. Here is what we know
52 AUTHORITY!
Winding back the clock to when Doug Polen ruled
Superbikes on a privateer Ducati (and yes, AC rode it)
60 WHEN THE TT STOPPED BEING A GP
It was only after the World Championship abandoned
the Isle of Man that the event became what it is today
68 LIGHTNING STRIKES
Vincent’s Black Lightning was rare, special and maybe
the first real track-based Superbike
74 RAINEY’S PARADE
Wayne Rainey will return to the saddle of a Yamaha
500 GP racer at Goodwood. We asked why, and how
Sport
96 MOTOGP RD7: LE MANS
Bastianini makes it three; Jack backs him up in P2
100 WORLDSBK RD3: ESTORIL
Bautista and Rea fight it out; Toprak’s Save of the Day!
Cover story
FORCE QUIT!
Suzuki’s MotoGP exit sent our experts into the pitlane’s
inner sanctums to find out why, and what comes next
→
WEB
HOT!
check out the
website for
more action at
amcn.com.au
44
Regulars 82
10 News/14 Briefs/ 18 Headcheck/ 20 He Did What?
25 Access/30 Quiz/80 Calendar & Events/82 Top Gear
86 Buyer’s Guide/91 Old School/92 Rev Racer
95 In Pit Lane/112 Grid Talk/114 Gassit
52 60
68
T“HTEHMISOISSTPCROOMBPALBELYTE
PRAECTKRAOGREAINNKTSH”E
74
ed’s desk
DEAN MELLOR
Too much tech? EDITORIAL
Editor: Dean Mellor
THERE HAVE BEEN plenty of murmurings recently about the processional Deputy Editor: Kel Buckley
Sub Editor: Phil Branagan
nature of the last few MotoGP races. The reason, according to various experts, News Editor: Hamish Cooper
Staff Journalist: Pete Vorst
and several of the racers themselves, can be attributed to Michelin’s front Founding Editor: George Lynn
tyre, which is susceptible to overheating and resulting pressure increases as DESIGN
Art Director: Brendon Wise
soon as it’s in the slipstream of a preceding bike. This makes it very difficult to
CONTRIBUTORS
overtake when the grid is chock-full of closely matched machines. Sir Alan Cathcart, Michael Scott,
Ben Purvis, Mat Oxley, Neil Morrison,
MotoGP bikes have more downforce than ever before, thanks to more Adam Child, Gold & Goose, Gordon Ritchie,
Paul Young, Peter Whitaker, Don Cox
effective aerodynamic packages and various shapeshifters (in the form of
AND NOT FORGETTING
front and rear ride-height devices), which is why the Michelin control tyres Darryl Flack, Simon O’Leary, Peter Baker,
Mark Watson, Josh Evans & Phillip Tooth
are struggling to cope.
ADVERTISING
While the racing in MotoGP is closer than it’s ever been, if there is no National Sales Manager: Todd Anderson
overtaking then it’s about as exciting as Formula 1. [email protected]
0409 630 733
If you can access it, check out WorldSBK by comparison.
MANAGEMENT
With Jonathan Rea facing tough competition from two Citrus Media
genuine competitors this year, in the form of Toprak Publisher: Jim Flynn
0449 801 899 [email protected]
If there is Razgatlioglu and Alvaro Bautista, the racing is as Accounts: [email protected]
no overtaking exciting as the heady old days of the mid- late-1990s
then it’s about when the likes of Carl Fogarty, Troy Corser, Aaron CONTACT AMCN
as exciting as Slight, Franky Chili et al were battling it out for Australian Motorcycle News
on-track supremacy. PO Box 222, Earlwood, NSW, 2206
Formula 1 So what is the solution for MotoGP? I reckon
there’s an argument for more limitations on the aero [email protected]
packages that are allowed, and the possible banning ISSN: 2653-3065
of shapeshifters altogether. My reasoning? Seriously, Website: amcn.com.au
Facebook: facebook.com/aumotorcyclenews
just look at how exciting WorldSBK is this year. In fact,
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you don’t even have to stray that far from the MotoGP SUBSCRIPTIONS*
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Australian Motorcycle News
Finally, a big shout out to Oli Bayliss, who just scored his best result in PO Box 161, Hornsby, NSW, 1630
(02) 8227 6486
WorldSSP last weekend, bringing home his Ducati Panigale V2 in sixth place
*Recommended and maximum price only including
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© 2022 All rights reserved.
that is something that seems to be missing from MotoGP so far this year.
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Watch the IT SERIES or view the full
Heated Gloves vid... AU Collection
the know We spied KTM's new
Super Duke R on test
IT HAPPENED SINCE LAST ISSUE
in Austria
SPIED!
KTM’s new unit flanked by boomerang-
supernaked shaped LED running light
takes shape strips. The strips will stay
but the next-gen model may
2023 Super Duke R gets style, engine updates get smaller lights without the
central slot.
ON THE BACK of 11 years of well as heavily revised styling, new side panels.
record global sales, KTM is there is a strong indication All this will push the bike’s The prototype seen here
acting quickly to update its that the 1301cc V-twin visual mass forward, doesn’t have the final version
existing models. Last month will be upgraded to a new aggressively hunching it over of the new design as its
(AMCN Vol 71 No 21), we performance level. the front wheel. headlight unit appears to be a
busted a new version of the 3D-printed test unit, lacking
Super Duke GT on test. This STYLING As we reported last time, the expensive-to-tool final
time we’ve got a close look at a KTM appears to be developing lights and LEDs.
potential 2023 Super Duke R. Prototypes spotted on test an evolution of the family
near the Austrian factory ‘face’ that’s been around for But it’s clear KTM is looking
The current-generation feature new frontal bodywork the last few years. The current to detach those running
KTM 1290 Super Duke R has including a completely range sports a distinctive, light strips from the main
been with us since 2020 so as revamped headlight unit and vertically-split headlight headlight, mounting them
on struts away from a much
smaller main lamp section in
the middle.
The LED strips themselves
are missing here, and the
main headlights look like off-
the-shelf aftermarket units
rather than the final design,
but the layout is clear. It helps
make the lamp unit appear
smaller without throwing out
KTM’s visual identity.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE THE FIRST SUPERBIKE?
A NATURAL 38 68I COULD HAVE TOLD
GASGAS
YOU, VINCENT
We ride the Supermoto – at Sete’s place!
The Black Lightning set the standard
→
→
NEW TECH BMW is upgrading
its aero game
As well the design lends itself
much better than the current BMW PATENTS
layout to the addition of radar
sensors. The current 1290 ADAPTIVE BODYWORK
Super Adventure S has a radar LAST YEAR MOTO Guzzi’s the front edges with springs wind, they’d also deflect
as standard, but it peeks out new V100 Mandello featured behind them. water when riding in wet
from a cave-like arch in the electrically-operated aero conditions, and dirt if you’re
bottom of the headlamp that bodywork. Now BMW has That means they default to riding off-road.
can’t be described as pretty. filed for a patent on its own the extended position, making
auto-adjusting bodywork. the fairing wider to provide Just like suspension, the
Another important change maximum wind protection for springs behind the deflectors
are the side panels that sprout It’s much simpler than the the rider. But as speeds rise, could be easily tweaked,
from the fuel tank. They Moto Guzzi system, which and air pressure increases on potentially using a preload-
cleanly follow the angle of the relies on control software and the fairing, the deflectors are style system to alter the
front fork and extend farther electronics. BMW’s system pushed inwards to reduce the speed at which they retract.
down than the current ones. uses springs to operate a bike’s frontal area and drag.
system that’s activated by This isn’t the first time
Below them, new panels wind pressure. The patent suggests they’re BMW has played with the
shroud the sides of the tuned by the spring stiffness to idea of adaptive aero. The
radiator – previously left The patent image shows an remain extended until around company previously filed
uncovered. Seen from the R 1250 GS with three lateral 50km/h, then they gradually patents for variable winglets
side, they fill the gap between air deflectors on each side. retract as speed rises, folding to be fitted to superbikes,
the front wheel and the Instead of being moved by completely flush with the using servos to alter their
engine, making it look like the hydraulics or electronics, fairing by around 120km/h. angle of attack depending on
bike’s mass is further forward they have hinges along speed or preferences. BP
than before. As well as protecting from
V-twin will M MARKS HALF
be upgraded CENTURY
to a new AS PART OF BMW
performance Motorsport’s 50th
anniversary celebrations
level BMW Motorrad has
revealed a special M 1000
ENGINE RR model in Sao Paulo
Yellow paint and fitted
The chassis, suspension, with competition parts,
wheels and brakes all appear including carbon-fibre and
to be carry-over components, lightweight aluminium
so the riding experience components, along with
isn’t likely to be significantly the famous M logo.
different. However, the
engine’s right-hand covers
appear to be different with
alterations to the water pump
housing.
Also the exhaust has been
fitted with sensors wired to a
datalogger on the prototype’s
tail, suggesting performance
tweaks to the already
powerful 1301cc V-twin.
While the tail bodywork
and subframe are unchanged,
there’s a new licence plate
bracket that’s slimmer and
shorter, again pushing the
visual balance to the front.
BEN PURVIS
IN PIT LANE COLUMN SPORT STARTS PAGE 104
ALEIXANDER 103 FRICKE TAKES 108
THE GREAT? SGP WIN #2 →
The older Espargaro is right in the title mix Aussie dazzles Speedway’s best
→
CFMoto’s 700CL-X middleweights were the first
new kids in town; now QJMotor is lining up its
650s, right, to bring to Australia
COMTOINAGUS!
New Aussie
challenger
Chinese giant QJMotor eyes up our market
IN LESS THAN 18 months name in multiple countries, company names. some great advances within a
Chinese powerhouse suggesting plans to start When CFMoto announced short time frame.
CFMoto has established selling its extensive, low-
itself as a middleweight priced range globally. last year it would be Meanwhile QJMotor has
sales segment challenger expanding its range in been churning out new
in Australia. Now QJMotor is competing Australia to take on the hotly models at a breakneck pace
another Chinese giant, in this year’s Moto3 contested middleweight over the last couple of years.
the Qianjiang group, has championship with a pair of market segment, it didn’t The latest is a 650cc V-twin
applied for trademark KTMs to gain exposure. This hold back. adventure model. It is a
rights to its QJMotor brand follows its first-ever display completely new machine,
name in Australia. This at last year’s EICMA show “It’s quite the warning shot, sharing little with existing
means it has plans to sell in Milan, one of the world’s and it’s just the beginning,” QJMotor or Benelli models.
models Down Under. most important expos. CFMoto Australia director
Michael Poynton said as his Its engine is a Qianjiang-
Qianjiang also owns CFMoto has also joined company prepared to take on made, 645cc, 90-degree
Benelli, which has a the Moto3 grid this season, Australia’s long-established V-twin that looks similar
reasonably strong footprint which is used by expanding big-bike distributors. to the well-proven Suzuki
here, and up to now the brands such as GasGas and SV650 design.
QJMotor range of models Husqvarna to showcase their Right now CFMoto still has
has only been available in a long way to go but has made Remember, this Suzuki
China. However, in recent engine previously provided
months QJMotor has applied QJMOTOR HAS BEEN CHURNING OUT the inspiration for Hyosung’s
for trademark rights to its NEW MODELS AT A BREAKNECK PACE 650 twin.
The actual cases and
castings do appear to be
12 amcn.com.au
Benelli’s 400 has some PRODUCT SAFETY
strong family styling clues
RECALL
ROSTER
Check if your motorcycle is
affected by this recent recall
MINI-TORNADO ON HORIZON ÄM ODEL 2018-20 BMW K 1600
BACK IN SEPTEMBER 2020 the Italian brand’s badge rather ÄI MPORTER BMW Australia
different, though, so it’s not a Benelli announced a future than the company’s Chinese-
straight copy. model range including 400cc, market QJMotor name. Ltd
700cc and 900cc twins as ÄN UMBER OF AFFECTED
The engine makes 56kW, well as 900cc and 1200cc The styling is very much
a little more than the latest triples and 650cc and 1000cc in the Benelli family, with a MOTORCYCLES 106
version of Suzuki’s 52kW four-cylinders – and now the stacked headlight flanked ÄI SSUE Due to a manufacturer
V-twin, as used in the smallest has broken cover with by two strips of LED running
V-Strom 650, which sells a styling design patent. lights, similar to the Benelli defect, the pivot struts that
here for a tick under $15k 302 R sportsbike unveiled connect the rear suspension
rideaway. It’s bolted to a The patent shows a machine last year. There are also some to the frame may break. This
steel-trellis frame with a cast that packs a new 399cc parallel visual overtones of the old could cause the rear of the bike
alloy swingarm and upside- twin to be made by Benelli’s Benelli Tornado Tre. to drop onto the tyre, resulting
down fork, probably sourced parent firm Qianjiang. The in heavy deceleration of the
from KYB or Marzocchi. engine looks to be a clone of Inevitably, a QJMotor version rear wheel and instability for
Kawasaki’s Ninja 400 twin, is also sure to appear. While the rider.
The brakes are Brembos, as with an identical 70mm bore QJMotor already has a 400cc ÄPOTENTIAL HAZARD Loss
used on several of QJMotor’s and 51.8mm stroke and around twin-cylinder sportsbike, the of control and risk of an accident.
other models. 33kW on tap. 400RR, it uses a slightly older
engine design. QJMotor will ÄI MPORTER Polaris Sales
At 219kg ready-to-ride, it’s It’s bolted to a tubular steel likely use a recently developed Australia Pty Ltd
6kg heavier than a V-Strom frame that features a single- pair of 693cc twin-cylinder
650, but with a 20mm shorter sided swingarm that provides sportsbikes as the basis of the ÄN UMBER OF AFFECTED
wheelbase. Like the V-Strom, a touch of exotica. The rear planned ‘700cc’ Benelli twin in MOTORCYCLES 93
it’s road-oriented, with a monoshock has a rising rate the future. BP
19-inch front wheel and linkage and the front fork is ÄI SSUE Due to a software
17-inch rear and the option of inverted, but rather than a issue, the rear turn signal
either cast or wire wheels. radial-mounted front brake lights may be slightly
there’s a conventionally- illuminated when not in use
Both QJMotor and Benelli mounted caliper. and brightly flash when
models are made in the same operating.
factories, so share many Although the patent has been
of the same engines and filed by Benelli’s parent firm, ÄPOTENTIAL HAZARD
frames. Benelli’s TRK 502 Qianjiang, there’s little doubt The rear turn signal lights are
has helped the famous old this model is intended to wear not compliant with Australian
brand achieve record sales vehicle standards.
in Italy, the country where Briefs End of year is sale time
it originated. This hasn’t amcn.com.au 13
translated into dominance Remembering Blake Keep your eye open for some
in other countries, possibly big savings at your local
inspiring QJMotor to step up Postponed last year, the motorcycle dealer in June. For
to the plate and try and hit annual Ken Blake Memorial example, until 30 June Royal
a home run in the growing Lunch will be held on Enfield is offering cut-price
worldwide middleweight Thursday 9 June at Laurel accessory and apparel kits
sales market. Hotel, Ascot Vale, Melbourne across its model range. And
from 12.30pm. Mick Cole new Benelli buyers will score
BEN PURVIS & will be a guest speaker and a genuine Benelli helmet,
HAMISH COOPER Blake’s original racebike, the jacket and gloves when they
Jesser Triumph, on display. order a 502c cruiser. Expect
It is 42 years since this similar offers from most major
great racer died at the Isle dealers plus good deals on ex-
of Man TT on 9 June, 1981. demo models.
All are welcome. Contact Alf
Robinson on 0418 377 786.
Did Lusail International Circuit in Qatar,
you which is about to get a massive
know? → upgrade, made headlines in 2008
You did when its new floodlights made it the
not! world’s largest lit venue.
“DESPITE THE Up-date STYLE ON A PLATE
MOBAVLIFOUUNSCTTYIORNE
ITATHHAA19VT7EIMH10PA0HD, The revival of South Personalised Plates Queensland
PINERDCUENNLTOPFA”ITH Australia’s popular has revved up its motorcycle
Adelaide 500 Supercars range with six new designs.
After breaking Ireland’s North Backgrounds include metal grill,
West 200 Superbike lap street race on carbon fibre, brushed metal,
record by over four seconds 4 December means checker plate and 3D. Riders can
– which means he now holds The Bend’s round of choose between a mix of three
lap records at all three major ASBK has been brought letters and two numbers in any
international road races (IoM forward a week, to order. The Prestige range offers
TT and Ulster GP) – Peter 3-5 alphanumeric characters in
Hickman shrugs off the Dunlop 25-27 November. any order. Prices start from just
tyre debacle that sidelined him $495. Visit www.ppq.com.au to
and others from the final race. Vic kicks a find out more.
goal
3% TOURATECH DE FORCE SAFER
The Victorian FINKE
Good news for Oli It’s back and it’s Government has
Bayliss as WorldSSP big. The Touratech allocated $1.7 million in The Finke Desert Race has
Ducati V2 engines Adventure Weekend its 2022/2023 budget announced new rules for
were given a three- returns this weekend for a proposed new spectators and campers for the
percent greater throttle in north-east Victoria, ‘Home of Victorian 2022 event, with marshals to
opening capability at with full displays of Motorsport’, with the police the changes. Where there
Estoril compared to the adventure bikes from venue’s site yet to be is no fencing, spectators must
opening two rounds. Honda, Suzuki, Harley-Davidson, Husqvarna, remain at least 20m back from
KTM, Yamaha and CFMoto, including test decided. the racetrack, and some sections
rides. The event will be held at Touratech’s HQ will have spectator exclusion
at Carboor, east of Wangaratta. AMCN’S zones. All camping set-ups,
THERMOMETER including motorhomes, must be
set back a minimum of 30m from
Grom’s gone the racetrack.
Honda Australia
has confirmed it has
withdrawn the once-
popular Grom from the
Aussie line-up.
Bastards!
Thugs have used
a stolen HiLux to
ramraid Townsville’s
SunCity Yamaha and
JR’s Motorcycles and
Suspension to steal
dirtbikes.
Mental Twisties 1 24
Dani Pedrosa wearing 3
Pecco Bagnaia’s facial hair 5
stumped lots of readers,
but not John Blakeney,
he got them all correct this
issue. Well played!
1. Dani has a beard!
2. Angel-Nieto switched
3. Red handkerchief pocket
4. Suzuki hat logo yellow
5. Pramac logo
14 amcn.com.au
EOLNEEC-LTIRNIECRS
Savic in Sydney
Aussie start-up Savic has
its new C-Series on show at
Sydney’s ZEN Motorcycles in
Alexandria until 2 June. ZEN
stocks a range of high-end
sports and retro e-motos.
Second-gen 1. The LiveWire S2 Del Mar LE QJMotor e-sport
2. Harley-Davidson’s EDT600R After revealing its first
electric sportsbike concept
LiveWire a sellout! last year, QJMotor has
gained type-approval on
More affordable Del Mar a success 1 an updated version for
road use. Now called the
THE NEXT GENERATION chassis geometries and styles is price. The initial ‘Launch RX, it weighs 144kg, claims
of electric bike from Harley- to be adopted easily. This Edition’– which has unique, a top speed of 105km/h
Davidson’s LiveWire means a variety of battery intricate wheel spokes that and the decision to use a
subsidiary has been sizes and configurations, evoke a printed circuit board, conventional transmission,
previewed, with the first 100 either air or liquid-cooled, plus paintwork that took five clutch and a chain final drive
‘Launch Edition’ versions sold with different motors and days to complete by hand remains.
out in minutes, even though control electronics. – costs $US17,699 (it’s only
production is still a year away. being sold in the US). The Ukraine’s e-snipers
The Del Mar gets a mass-produced version, with Ukrainian forces are
Based on the all-new 59.6kW motor and is simpler wheels and paint, developing an electric
‘Arrow’ modular platform that liquid-cooled, with relatively is expected to cost $A21,000 sniper bike that lets
will form the basis of three compact dimensions and compared to the LiveWire soldiers shoot for several
entire model ranges – the tracker styling, including One’s $A32k price in the US. minutes then disappear
middleweight ‘S2’, lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels and a before Russian artillery can
‘S3’ and heavyweight ‘S4’ number board-style nose At present the first- respond. The 70kg Atom
lines – in coming years, the cowl. LiveWire claims an generation LiveWire retails Military has a top speed of
S2 Del Mar is a flat-track- estimated city range of 160km here at just under $A50k 90km/h, a 150km range and
inspired machine. but hasn’t announced battery through H-D dealers. a 150kg payload.
capacity. We estimate around
Lighter and less powerful 80km on country roads. LiveWire would not be Cannonball e-hero
than either the original drawn about its plans to Steven Day has set a
LiveWire or LiveWire One, it On the plus side, the Del market its second-gen range new record for an e-moto
is aimed at the urban rider, Mar’s smaller motor and Down Under, except to Cannonball run across the
much like Ducati’s first battery means it weighs confirm that “Australia is a US of 111 hours. Riding an
version of its 900cc Monster less than 200kg (the 78kW market planned for LiveWire, Energica, he beat Diego
was back in 1993. LiveWire One weighs 255kg). to follow after Europe”. Cardenas’s record of 178
Range may not be a big hours on an H-D LiveWire,
It was first glimpsed in an sticking point if it can be BEN PURVIS & showing how quick-
official sketch two years ago charged quickly. HAMISH COOPER charging networks are
carrying H-D branding and expanding in the US.
named ‘EDT600R’. The overall 2
styling and the monocoque-
style chassis are clearly
carryovers from that project.
The Arrow platform
incorporates a central,
structural battery case
with bolt-on front and rear
subframes that allow various
16 amcn.com.au
STROKE VICTIM 3
The death knell for the road registrable
two-stroke race replica came in 2002 with
the discontinuation of the Aprilia RS250.
The RS used a worked-over version of
the engine from Suzuki’s RGV250, which
ceased production back in 1998, making engine supply
difficult going forward. Added to that was the looming
spectre of Euro 2 emissions rules due to come into effect in
April 2003 that effectively made the RS250 illegal in Europe.
At $12,793 back in 2002 the 140kg RS250 wasn’t cheap, but if
you can find one these days, they are rare, so expect to pay in
excess of $15k for a runner.
THAT WON’T BUFF OUT
No sooner had the ink dried on Colin
Edwards’s new contract with Aprilia and the Texas Tornado
was out at Jerez throwing the RS3 Cube GP bike around the
Spanish circuit. But Colin pushed the Cube too hard and
threw it down the road. He required a few stitches but was
otherwise unharmed. The RS3 was a little worse for wear.
DITCH THE PEUGEOT
He may have been cleaning up on
two wheels but Rossi’s entry into the
final round of the 2002 World Rally
Championship in Britain didn’t exactly
go to plan. Prior to driving his Peugeot 206 at the rally, Rossi
stated that he just hoped to finish. On day two, Rossi made
an error, running slightly wide on the entrance to a long, third
gear left-hander. After drifting into the marbles, the Italian
lost the rear, speared off the road and into a ditch backwards.
Despite help from the locals Rossi and co-driver Carlo Cassina
weren’t able to get the 206 back on the road – rally over!
PICS OF THE ISSUE
12
1. Ago being Ago – all he’s ever interested in is reading AMCN! 2. Everyone likes a tits-out shot from a bike show, and the bloke riding pillion on
the trike in the centre didn’t disappoint as he and the rider paraded at Gold Coast Bike Week
18 amcn.com.au
RIDDEN/
TESTED
ÄKawasaki
Ninja ZX-6R
ÄTM 400E
ÄBimota YB11
and SB6R
ÄHarley-Davidson
FXDX – Long-term
update
LAMS
RIDDEN/
TESTED
ÄKawasaki ZZ-R250
ÄYamaha XV250
ÄHyosung Aquila
ÄSuzuki DR-Z250
ÄYamaha XT250
ÄHonda CB250
ÄAprilia RS125
ÄHonda VT250
ÄHonda VTR250
ÄBMW F 650 CS
45 ERA AD
3. Former Ed Sam Maclachlan mastering a river crossing on the TM 400E. What is it with Cow hould you!
AMCN editors and river crossings? 4. Fred, being Fred! 5. Ouch, just ouch! We know that
suits are made
from the skin
of bovines, but
we don’t need
to be reminded
of it any more
than we need
to be reminded
of what we’re
eating when
we gnaw into a
T-bone!
amcn.com.au 19
He did what? MAIN: Colin Stewart in Belle Vue colours in 1929, on his Rudge with
Alan Bruce (standing), and ready to race at Wembley
WORDS PETER WHITAKER PHOTOGRAPHY TONY WEBB
The Origins
of species
How a bloke from Birregurra
developed the world’s first
bespoke speedway chassis
BY THE TIME Colin Stewart fortunate envied. His was motorcycle manufacturers. All Colin would say later was
sailed to London in 1929, a first-class return ticket to Relaxed at the track in the that, had it been his left knee,
his reputation as Australia’s England on the Orient Line, his career would have been
foremost exponent of the a contract with guaranteed company of fellow racers, over. He also recalled his three
broadslide preceded him. appearance money and Colin was out of his depth months in hospital.
Earning up to £50 each access to the best equipment. socially, but soon became
meeting (while leading accustomed to life in the “There were some very odd
Aussie Rules Football stars When the Rudge factory spotlight, hobnobbing patients and apparently I was
were trained and played engineers inspected the with filmstars, flappers one of them,” he said.
for £5 a week, the former extensively modified frame and footballers at popular
Geelong Speedway King Colin had shipped in his cabin nightclubs. The track Colin’s injuries were such
became an international from Australia, it was found promoters regularly had Colin that, on a short sojourn
celebrity to rival established to be twisted. And, though competing at two different back in Melbourne at the
Aussie aces such as Billy the company was reluctant to venues on the same day, and conclusion of British League
Galloway and Buzz Hibberd. have non-standard racebikes he was earning £200 a week season, he never took on a
appearing at the track, Colin – more than 50 times the competitive ride. But, by April
Though he’d first raced convinced them to build a average weekly pay. 1930, he was back in the UK
speedway less than three replica of the frame fabricated as Captain of the White City
years previously, Colin had in collaboration with Alan Then the inevitable team in Glasgow.
progressed from his own 250cc Bruce back in Melbourne. happened. Avoiding a
Blackburne-powered Cotton Then a spare. And later, collision on the tight West By the time Colin rode his
to a TT Velocette, followed by a another for Billy Galloway. Ham track, Colin collected third and final season in the
sponsored Norton. Then came the fence, breaking his femur, English League, this time for
a four-valve, twin carburettor The factory designers, at cracking a number of ribs, Wembley – the top team of the
Indian Prince, which had been first reluctant to accept advice fracturing his skull and era – he realised his body was
modified for American one from a mere colonial with no dislocating his right knee. no longer up to it. Besides, his
mile tracks. formal training, soon learnt ever faithful Rudge was now
Colin knew precisely what was outclassed by any number
“It was very fast indeed” required to build a winner. of bespoke JAP-powered
Colin recalled many years machines, a direct legacy of
later. “But a bit of a pig to ride Since the first Australian Colin’s pioneering approach
on shorter tracks.” contingent of riders had to perfecting the ultimate
sailed to London in 1928, speedway machine.
He finally settled on an Speedway had rapidly
English Glanfield Rudge, become an extraordinarily
specifically built for dirt- popular form of working-
tracking. But, in collaboration class entertainment, though
with his engineer Alan Bruce, the upper-crust – those who
he was constantly modifying could afford four wheels and
the frame to his own a chauffeur – dismissed the
specifications, experimenting sport as little more than a
with wheel sizes and running commercialised promotion for
rear tyre pressures as high
as 90psi. Colin knew precisely
what was required to
Having established a
reputation prior to leaving build a winner
Australia, Colin was one of
the well-paid riders the less
20 amcn.com.au
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[email protected]
Include your full name and address in your
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to fit, so don’t ramble. The views expressed by
readers are not necessarily those of the editor.
Stromtrooper Reader McFarlane and Great Sandy Desert. This was magazine tests adventure
his Suzuki are lapping taken just before it hit 48ºC – tourers of a similar price?
G’day Deano, you may the big brown land a bit hot for full riding gear! Do they smell bad?
remember me from some of
my previous correspondence Karumba, it’s not bad there. Why is it that Suzuki’s My 1000XT is one of the
like motorcycle clothing The second pic is the Barkly V-Strom is not included in the best bikes I’ve ever owned, (I
– some may say I support Highway, it’s 400km of competition lists when your have seven motorcycles and
nudity (AMCN Vol 71 No 21). nothing, and the third pic I’ve been riding for 53 years).
is Dampier to the Sand Fire The 650XT is apparently a
These are a couple of snaps Roadhouse on the edge of the better overall motorcycle.
of my current journey on
the mighty V-Strom 1000XT, You should give one
which is one of the most a crack. Join the Strom
underrated motorcycles Troopers – you’ll never look
on the market – the thing back!
hasn’t missed a beat. I left
Goulburn in New South Phillip McFarlane
Wales on 31 January for a Goulburn, NSW
complete circumnavigation
of this wide brown land Phillip, we have a Suzuki
including Tasmania, I’m V-Strom 1050XT in our
currently in Townsville in upcoming adventure
Queensland and I’ll be home
on 1 June after a look around issue (AMCN Vol 71 No 24)
central Queensland. which goes on sale in a
Anyway, snap one is fortnight. And no, I didn’t
notice any bad smells
when I rode it. Deano
Summer storage → charge/replace the
battery and reconnect it,
Hi guys and girls, I have been “I have a 2020 Suzuki DR650 I
buying your mag for at least don’t want to sell, so it’s going to make sure the tyres are
30 years and I love it. inflated, drop it off the
be stored for [three years]”
I am living in Kenya at the stand and fire it up. Check
moment, but I will be coming the fuel out of the fuel able to get to it. When you to make sure there aren’t
home to Australia for three lines, do an oil change get back to Kenya and any fuel leaks or oil leaks,
years work. I have a 2020 and make sure the oil is are reunited with your jump aboard and roost
Suzuki DR650 that I don’t topped up, disconnect everyone within range.
want to sell, so it’s going to be the battery, put it on a almighty DR, unwrap it
stored for all of that time. stand to elevate the tyres with joyous celebration Suzi blues
and cover it completely
I can’t find any articles so that rodents won’t be just like a birthday It was such a shock to learn
about long-term storage and present, fill it with fresh Suzuki is quitting MotoGP
the ones on the internet are fuel, change the oil again, at the end of the year. As a
all skewed towards winter TL1000S owner, I’ve been
storage. Kenya is hot like the following the brand’s
top half Australia. development in MotoGP
with a keen interest since it
Can you, with all your returned to the GP paddock
knowledge and contacts, tell in 2015.
me or point me in the right
direction for correct long- I feel for the team and the
term storage of my bike? riders – though the riders
should be able to find a new
Thanks. seat fairly easily, I guess,
Jim Kerr though I’m not so sure about
via email the mechanics and engineers.
Here are Fred Gassit’s Although I reckon Aleix
top tips on long-term Espargaro has a wry smile
bike storage: Empty the on his face. I remember he
fuel tank, run the engine was so pissed off at Suzuki
until it stalls to get all for dumping him after years
amcn.com.au 25
access SUBSCRIBE & SAVE!
Your say Available in six- or 12-month options
subscribe.amcn.com.au
of development work for the Kelso potential →
factory, turning the bike into
a podium contender. Really loved your interview “We all need to get behind this
with Joel Kelso (AMCN Vol 71 kid [Joel Kelso]. He just might
I suspect he’s pretty pleased No 22). I remember reading
with the situation now that an interview Chris Dobie go all the way”
he’s sitting second in the did with him many years
standings with a different ago when he was about two- going down in Western guess ‘bikies’ these days
manufacturer – though it foot tall (Joel, not Chris) and Sydney at the moment and, have plenty of other
looks like Aprilia isn’t too thinking at the time what a despite never being a patch
keen to meet his expectations determined young rider he or even a motorcycle in activities to keep them
in terms of renewing his was. It’s a trait that seems any of the images we see of occupied instead of going
contract for 2023. So I hope to have only strengthened these thugs, the reporter
it doesn’t happen to him over the years and I’m really insists on referring to them for a ride. As for monkey
again. And all the rumours happy to see it’s paid off with as ‘bikies?’ It gives every bikes, I haven’t heard that
are pointing to Joan Mir a ride in the Moto3 World law-abiding motorcycle
taking Pol Espargaro’s place Championship. rider a bad name and really term used to describe
at Repsol Honda. I like the gets under my skin. ‘kids and deros’ on
Espargaro brother’s work He’s got the drive, he
ethic, they both deserve one appears to have the talent And since I’m venting, it unregistered pitbikes and
more go. and it even seems like he’s also gets my goat when every dirtbikes before, although
got a competitive bike unregistered dirtbike ridden
Anyway, really underneath him with the around the place by kids and I agree they are nothing
disappointed to see Suzuki CIP Green Power squad. deros who have lost their like the original Honda
bowing out of my favourite It was a shame he was the licence all get lumped under Monkey. Deano
sport, but I hope it means victim of that freak accident the same ‘monkey bike’ term.
they’ll start putting some in Jerez – though to qualify A shitty Chinese-made piece Drysdale demise
money towards developing in 11th while injured in of crap is a long way from the
some new bikes – because the such a competitive field in original Honda monkey bikes I was at Manheim auctions
line-up is very uninspiring at Le Mans was nothing short that are attracting big bucks in Melbourne today and
the moment. of impressive. these days. spotted this bike rusting
away with its open throttle
Josh Shoemark Can’t wait to cheer him on Peter Headley bodies exposed to the rain. A
via email in Mugello – we all need to get via email sad end to an extraordinary
behind this kid. He just might piece of Australian
Hair spray go all the way. I thought exactly the motorcycle history.
same thing when I was
Ol’ Hamish must be as happy Darren Henrahann It might be a perfect
as a pig in shit. He got to write via email watching the news time for AMCN to revisit
a whole article (The day bikies the other night; not a the history of the Drysdale
took over a city, AMCN Naming rights motorcycle in sight, just V8 and the story of this
Vol 71 No 20) about his blacked-out Audi and bike’s theft and recovery.
favourite topic: 70s longhairs. Why is it that the media Mercedes-Benz SUVs. I Hopefully someone can
keeps referring to crime purchase this and restore it
Allan Wylie gangs as ‘bikies’? There’s to its former glory.
Christchurch, NZ a lot of unsavoury things
David Wilson
via email
26 amcn.com.au
HAS TAC
DENIED YOU
TREATMENT?
FREE SUPPORT FOR
MEDICAL DISPUTES
A Drysdale awaiting its | ;mu -uv Ƴ vvo1b-|;vķ ; o@;u -ѴѴ
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Wow! What a place for “A sad end→ ou l;7b1-Ѵ |u;-|l;m| ou o|_;u m;1;vv-u
such an iconic bike to to a piece of v;ub1;vķ ; 1-m _;Ѵr o ];| |_;v; v;ub1;v
show up. We ran a feature Australian r-b7 tb1hѴķ b|_o| 1_-u]bm] o -m|_bm]ĺ
on Ian Drysdale in our motorcycle
summer special (AMCN hcalawyers.com.au
Vol 71 No 01) featuring history” 03 9001 1318
the Drysdale V8. If you
missed it, you could try a paintable consistency, then
to grab a copy by sending he’d paint it on his wax cotton
an email to subscribe@ jacket and leather boots and
citrusmedia.com.au. gloves and, once dry, it would
make them waterproof.
Deano
I haven’t tried it, but
Water chestnut I’ve never forgotten it. The
concept makes sense to me,
All of this rain has reminded but I’ve always paid a bit too
me of a trick an old bloke told much for my gear to be able
me once when I turned up to to risk ruining things. But
a roadhouse in West Wylong I do love the old-fashioned
wet to my core. I was riding resourcefulness and thought
a Kawasaki GPZ900 at the I’d share it with your readers
time, from Gulargambone in in case someone has some
New South Wales where I was old gear and can’t afford
living at the time, heading to new, more waterproof kit.
Echuca in Victoria. Love the mag.
Cold and miserable, I Ian George
ordered something warm to via email
eat and sloshed my way over
to a table where I peeled my
heavy leathers off and sat
down. There was an old guy
sitting at the table next to me
who caught my eye and said
two words: turps and silicone.
At the time I thought he was
suggesting something about
being silly and drunk, but
after I gave him a strange look,
he went on to explain that
when he was a young bloke,
he’d thin out silicone with
mineral turpentine until it’s at
socials Instagram @zenofwealth
Facebook @turbo86_cinci
Post of
the issue
News of the end of
the line for Suzuki’s
DR650 prompted a few
comments from readers.
→ Don’t Forget
#amcn_mag
Comment
of the Issue
Ben Wrigley was reminded
of the times when 500s ruled
the world
“Awesome, I remember
watching Rob McElnea
race the Skoal Bandit
Suzuki RG500 at Oran
Park - Swann Insurance
series in, I think, 1986.
No match for Wayne
Gardner on the Rothmans
NSR500. Good days!”
Reaching out
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reviews of your favourite bikes at amcn.com.au
28 amcn.com.au
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30 amcn.com.au
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032 EXIT
SHOCK
SUZUKI’S MOTOGP WITHDRAWAL
Suzuki’s bombshell decision to leave MotoGP
at the end of 2022 was greeted with shock
and despair. This is what we know about the
reasons behind the factory’s thinking
WORDS NEIL MORRISON PHOTOGRAPHY GOLD&GOOSE
32 amcn.com.au
On a steamy hot May Monday at Jerez, not much seemed
out of place in the Suzuki camp. At a post-race IRTA
test, its riders were attempting to work out exactly why
their Spanish Grand Prix hadn’t quite gone to plan the
previous day. A few things were to be tested, then home
for 10 days’ rest before it started all over again in France.
Only later in the afternoon did recently appointed Team
Manager Livio Suppo and Project Leader Shinichi Sahara
learn of a special development from Japan.
There was little indication in what was to come. To everyone,
including riders and team personnel, it was business as usual.
Riders Joan Mir and Alex Rins were readying to sign a contract
extension to stay put beyond this year. And as recently as April of
last year, the manufacturer had signed a contract extension with
series organiser Dorna to stay in MotoGP until 2026.
But the riders were called into Suppo’s office midway through
the afternoon, where they were told the manufacturer intended
to withdraw. Soon after, the team was gathered to learn of the
amcn.com.au 33
Suzuki’s MotoGP withdrawal
1
23
bombshell news that Suzuki intended to 4 1. Joan Mir celebrates
withdraw from MotoGP at the end of the year. the 2020 MotoGP title
Rins could do little other than break down. company’s President, Toshihiro Suzuki.
“It’s a little strange,” said the Spaniard. 2. In 2015/16 Aleix
“It was super-hard,” he said. Espargaro and
“I was fully crying because I’ve given “Toshihiro-San is super-friendly with me. He sent
everything to this team since 2017.” me a video saying ‘congratulations’ when my Maverick Viñales were
Everyone involved was blindsided by the news. baby was born.” teammates at Suzuki
Suppo had even spent part of the day discussing
future plans and the rider’s market with Yamaha’s Mir added, “Of course it’s surprising,” on the 3. Win #1 for the inline-
Managing Director Lin Jarvis. lack of communication. “But I think it’s a difficult four GSX-RR; Viñales,
“My immediate reaction when they told me situation for everybody to manage. Nobody wants
they were going to quit was ‘that’s a load of to speak about this. If they decided this so fast Silverstone, 2016
bollocks’,” said Jarvis. and like this, it’s for one big thing.”
“The last person I spoke to in the paddock was 4. The tight-knit team
Livio. We had a good 20-minute discussion in the Given team and riders are still expected to give will split up at
paddock talking about the riders’ market, how to everything to win the crown this year, rival team season’s end
work better with past situations.” bosses were dumbfounded by the Japanese’s lack
of communication. 5
RADIO SILENCE
“I was very surprised they told the staff at the
The news was broken the evening of the Jerez test end of the IRTA test and there was no official
by reliable Catalan journalist Uri Puigdemont. recognition until 10 days later,” said Jarvis, who
But official confirmation didn’t arrive for a has great experience working and understanding
further 10 days. Only on the eve of the French the mechanisms of a Japanese corporation.
GP was a short, 98-word statement released. It
pointed to “the current economical situation” “This is very unusual. That put the people in
as well as “the need to concentrate” the factory’s the team, the Japanese engineers, the European
“effort on the big changes that the Automotive engineers, the team staff, the riders in a very
world is facing” by way of explanation. uncomfortable situation.”
The team could offer no official
communication in France. Suppo and Sahara
were off limits for interviews and were rarely
seen outside the Suzuki garage. Only the riders
were available for official comment. Incredibly,
no one from the team had been contacted since
the Jerez test – something Rins couldn’t quite
understand, given his good relationship with the
RINS: “I WAS FULLY CRYING
BECAUSE I’VE GIVEN EVERYTHING
TO THIS TEAM SINCE 2017”
34 amcn.com.au
6 A HISTORICAL PRECEDENT unrecognisable to what was presented in 2011.
7 Then the factory had Alvaro Bautista as a lone
Historically, Suzuki has been a conservative
5. Former Suzuki team company, taking extreme decisions in extreme rider, who achieved a best finish of fifth all year
manager Davide Brivio, times. It quit the 500cc class in an official and finished 13th overall. Now, Rins and Mir
Kevin Schwantz, rider capacity in the mid-80s despite winning two should be regular victory contenders aboard
Randy de De Puniet and championships at the beginning of that decade. one of the grid’s best bikes – a far cry from the
test rider Nobuatsu Aoki Its withdrawal at the close of 2011 in light of the GSV-R, used from 2007 to 2011, which bore little
2008 economic crash meant it watched from the resemblance in either look or design to the
in Texas in 2014 sidelines for three years while rivals Honda and factory’s road fleet.
6. With Mir’s future Yamaha continued to clean up.
looking like Repsol HRC, When seeking reasons, there is sadly no
where will Rins go? Even still, it’s difficult to level with this escaping the current bleak economic forecasts.
7. Livio Suppo, left, decision. The factory’s MotoGP effort is in as good Another recession hovers worryingly on the
joined Suzuki as team a shape as it’s been in the four-stroke era. And horizon, with the worst of consequences of a
manager just this year. aside from the light blue colours, its structure is two-year global pandemic and European war
Shinichi Sahara, right, is still to be felt. Budget is a worry for all factories at
the company’s MotoGP present, not least those from Japan. Air costs have
nearly doubled compared to pre-pandemic times
Project Leader and ferrying equipment and personnel to and
from the east of Asia is more exorbitant now than
any time in recent history. This is a struggle to
which some teams in the smaller categories can
attest. At this cost, the centre cannot hold.
Jarvis could empathise.
“Are we in some similarly difficult situations?
Yes, for sure,” he said of Yamaha’s situation.
“We have the same problems with delivery
of motorcycles, availability of spare parts and
components. Markets have changed. But we don’t
have an automotive business. We don’t make
cars, we (only) make some engines. Maybe this is
affected by their automotive business.”
“The need to concentrate” the factory’s “effort
on the big changes that the Automotive world is
facing” referred to in Suzuki’s official statement
relates to a significant change it is making. As
recently as March, the Associated Press indicated
how Suzuki Motor is investing 104.4 billion
rupees ($A1.9 billion) of its funds in electric
vehicles at its Indian plant. This hints at the
company’s future planning, as it claims to have
been “forced” to “shift cost and human resources
to develop new technologies.”
A source within the team confirmed no one
there was on a contract beyond this year. Even
Suppo, hired in March, had a one-year-plus-one
deal. With riders poised to renew commitments
for next year, it appears the factory was aware it
had to act now, otherwise further penalties for
breaking contracts would be incoming.
One could conclude there is good reason to
pull out, especially as it appears Suzuki Motor
is also under investigation for potentially fitting
a number of its four-wheeled diesel fleet with
an emission device that provided fake readings.
However, reports in German paper Süddeutsche
Zeitung stated this could affect 22,000 vehicles
Suzuki has sold – hardly a jot on the 11 million
vehicles that were recalled in Volkswagen’s
‘Dieselgate’ scandal that cost the German firm
somewhere in the region of $US40 billion.
Also, financial results released on the eve of
the French GP showed the company to be in
rude health. Net sales increased by 12.3 percent
from April 2021 to March 2022. Its operating
profit decreased by 1.5 percent, a statement read,
“owing to increase in raw material prices,” but
ordinary profit was up by 5.9 percent. Even the
net sales of its motorcycle operations increased
amcn.com.au 35
Suzuki’s MotoGP withdrawal
1. The latest GSX-RR is by 14.1 percent, albeit with a greatly reduced 1
far more competitive operating profit. 2
than Bautista’s GSV-R V4
With very little in the way of official
bike of 2011 communication, one is left to speculate. The take
of Paco Sanchez, Mir’s personal manager, was,
2. Espargaro tows way “this is a big multi-national competition. There
a crashed GSX-RR in is a board and on this board are people who are
Valencia in 2015 not interested in racing. Outside of MotoGP…
it is nothing. You are making numbers and
3. Espargaro’s Suzuki thinking of the future and strategy and maybe
crashed and burned at there are people thinking ‘what is MotoGP? And
the 2016 Czech MotoGP why are we spending 50 million (a year)?’ We
could invest that in electric cars or have another
4. Yamaha boss Lin marketing strategy. I don’t know but for sure
Jarvis is confident that there are some Japanese that don’t like MotoGP.
his company is staying And if they are in the majority on the board…
in MotoGP “People with a suit and in a chair in Japan
have never come here and aren’t worried about
5. Former team boss the people that work here. It’s shit because all of
Davide Brivio has gone these people are so professional. With a really low
(to Alpine F1) and Mir budget they made really successful results.”
looks likely to move to
Jarvis agrees he and other MotoGP teams are at
Repsol Honda the whim of those who sit on factory boards.
“Once any large corporation in the world, when
the board decides something big, there is almost
no stopping it. If it comes to a major issue and
there is a reason to make radical decisions, then
any board can do such things,” he said.
SHAKY GROUND?
Dorna was understandably at pains to point out
the series is doing just fine despite the news.
“It’s important to say that we obviously are
not happy with Suzuki leaving, but the most
important thing is that the championship is
in very good health,” said Dorna CEO Carlos
Ezpeleta at the French Grand Prix.
The Spaniard met with each MotoGP team
36 amcn.com.au
SANCHEZ: “I DON’T KNOW BUT FOR
TSHURATE DTHOENR’TELAIKREE SMOOMTEOGJPA”PANESE
in France to allay any fears or concerns. The 3 4
company claims it has received “high interest”
from “official factories” and “independent teams” 5
keen to join the series in their place.
any way back for them in the near future.
Looking at the current situation, Jarvis believed Meanwhile, Mir and Rins must somehow put
the sport is in much better shape than 2011 when
Suzuki last departed. the whole saga to one side while concentrating
on deposing Fabio Quartararo from his throne.
“Could it happen at Yamaha? There is no Despite showing great promise in France, the
hesitation to continue in MotoGP. We’ve signed weekend ended in disaster, with both riders
the five-year contract, we’re committed to the crashing out.
sport,” said Jarvis. “I can’t see their problems
influencing Yamaha. The past fortnight hasn’t been a good look for a
company whose MotoGP project has always been
“I read things like everyone else about managed with passion, warmth and expertise – a
inflation, the economy slowing down and the stark contrast to Suzuki Japan’s dealings with
consequences of the expansion of the war. Who the event. Expecting results from this team in
knows? Maybe all the doom and gloom will prove the coming weeks under such circumstances
to be correct, or maybe it won’t. I don’t think seems unreasonable.
today we’re in an extremely difficult situation,
but we could be if things turn very badly. Who
knows if the Ukraine situation will get out of
hand. Already it’s an extraordinary situation.
If it got worse that doesn’t just influence us; it
influences everything.
“On the positive side, I think the sport is
as good as it’s been. I was just talking to the
president of Yamaha Europe. We were looking
at the positions after FP3. There were 16 riders
within one second. That’s amazing. There are six
constructors here at the moment. I understood
from Carmelo that after Suzuki’s announcement,
other factories showed interest.
“If I compare the situation now to when we had
the CRT [Claiming Rule Team] situation, that was
a very precarious situation, where we had to do
everything we could to prop up the grid. We’re in
a very different space at the moment. But again,
if a macro-global situation develops in a negative
way, it will affect everything and everybody.”
WHAT NOW?
Well, the company is still negotiating with Dorna
the terms on which it will leave the series.
“The first thing we said is that we could
understand, but we need to talk to know the
situation because we have an agreement with
Suzuki signed just last year,” said Ezpeleta. “We
need to understand exactly where the problem is.”
One rival Team Manager from a European
factory believed the fine to break their contract
will be in the region of 20 million ($A30m).
Considering its MotoGP operation cost in the
region of 40 million ($A60m) a year, they will
save around an estimated 180 million ($A270m)
from the withdrawal.
The last time Suzuki left (at the close of 2011), it
stated its intention to return within three years (it
eventually returned in four). There was no return
date mentioned this time around.
And seeing how the factory has conducted
itself in the past fortnight, it’s hard to imagine
amcn.com.au 37
quickspin TEST ADAM CHILD
PHOTOGRAPHY SEBAS ROMERO & MARCO CAMPELLI
2022 GasGas SM 700
Beefy To most of us, the name GasGas 1. GasGas brings a fresh
slider evokes images of nerveless trials look to a familiar-ish
stars bouncing seatless machines looking ride
Meet GasGas’s first-ever from rock to rock, defying sense
roadbike and gravity, and generally existing on 2. Fiddle with the riding
another planet to road riders. modes and the SM 700
1 becomes a Wild Child
But that image is changing fast. In 2020
38 amcn.com.au GasGas set out to relaunch its brand,
moving away from its niche off-road market
and into MotoGP to contest the Moto3
championship. Following dramatic success
at the famous Dakar Rally last January, the
factory raised its profile further by badging
Jake Dixon’s Moto2 Triumph-powered Kalex
as a GasGas. And now GasGas has launched its
first production roadbike, the SM 700.
The mover and shaker behind the
transformation of GasGas is parent company
PIERER Mobility, which also owns KTM and
Husqvarna, meaning it should come as no
surprise that the ‘new’ SM 700 supermoto shares
just about everything with the KTM 690 SMC R
and Husqvarna 701. In fact, the 693cc 55kW (74hp)
single-cylinder engine is identical, as is the fully
adjustable WP suspension and trellis frame.
Singles aren’t for everyone but they are slim,
relatively simple and, crucially on a scratcher
like this, narrow and light. The LC4 motor weighs
The GasGas boasts a The LC4 motor weighs Service intervals are Two riding modes:
peak power figure of just 43.5kg, including every 10,000km and Street and
55kW at 8000rpm,
the electric start, fuel consumption Supermoto. Each
and a peak torque throttle body, clutch is quoted at a mode reconfigures
output of 73.5Nm at and coolant hoses. very reasonable the throttle response
6500rpm. 4.1L/100km from the and rider aids.
13.5L tank.
GasGas wheels are
cast, no longer spoke
as on the KTM and
Husqvarna. They
reduce unsprung
weight by 500g.
It feels exceptionally 2
smooth and free-
revving for a single
just 43.5kg, including the starter motor, throttle
body, clutch and coolant hoses. It’s ride-by-wire,
of course, and supported by two riding modes:
Street and Supermoto, which are really simple
to use. Each mode reconfigures the throttle
response and rider aids. A two-way quickshifter
comes standard along with the must-have on all
supermoto machines – a slipper clutch, which on
the GasGas is hydraulically operated.
Don’t be put off by the single-cylinder engine.
The LC4 is a sophisticated and versatile motor,
and it’s electric start. The dreaded vibration
associated with old thumpers has largely been
eliminated and once above 2500rpm it feels
smooth and free-revving for a single.
Below 2500rpm, especially in the higher
gears, it’s a little lumpy but tap back on the
quickshifter and it’ll pull cleanly. Short-shifting
through the torque of the midrange is a truly
fruity experience, and allows you to make quick
amcn.com.au 39
quickspin
2022 GasGas SM 700
progress on the road and embarrass most traffic RTEHDEMOOTTHAERRD 1
away from the lights, too. Fueling is precise and Ducati
smooth, another massive step forward from the Hypermotord 950
single-cylinder bikes your dad used to tear about
on, and while vibrations are noticeable they are 937cc V-Twin
anything but intrusive at cruising speeds. 84kW & 96Nm
200kg (kerb, claimed)
But the real difference is this. You can also 870mm seat height
thrash the GasGas and have some serious fun. It’s
been a while since I’ve ridden a modern single, $22,300 (ride away)
and it took me a few kays to stop short-shifting
and let it rev its head off instead. On the track
you can hold onto a gear for longer than you’d
expect, occasionally bouncing it off the rev limiter
between corners, and the GasGas seems to love
it. Tuck down behind the wide Supermoto ’bar
and it will breeze past an indicated 160km/h and
onwards… plus a little more.
Yes, 148.5kg (dry) plus 55kW and 73.5Nm should
equal some serious fun. Add fully adjustable WP
suspension and Continental Attack SM rubber on
17-inch wheels and it’s clear we’re not to spend too
much time riding upright on the SM 700. But first,
some riding tips…
There are three ways to ride this thing.
Conventionally: sitting still on the racy seat and
using the single’s pleasing dollops of torque,
which feels a bit lazy on a bike this intense but is a
great way to revel in its chassis’s responsiveness.
Secondly, in a traditional supermoto style, with
weight forward, inside leg out, braking later than
late, sliding the rear to the apex as you push the
bike down into the corner before turning and
firing out.
Or, as my GasGas instructor, MotoGP legend
Sete Gibernau advised, knee down; as if on a
normal sportsbike at a trackday, with your weight
off the inside of the bike, knee skimming the kerb
before pushing the bike upright on the exit.
And the GasGas loves all three. Ride
‘conventionally’ on the road, then get to the track
or even a fast switchback mountain pass and hit it
supermoto style or knee down.
If you like intense bikes like this, all approaches
are totally absorbing. The GasGas steers so
40 amcn.com.au
4
There are also excellent fun. A tight and twisty track is where the GasGas
rider aids to fall back on truly shines – it’s brilliant at relatively low speeds.
You’re not wrestling 220kg, just riding a bike that
23 wants to get you into and out of the next corner as
quickly as possible. And after a 20-minute track
1. On open Spanish quickly, is so incredibly light compared to normal session, instead of feeling drained you’re keen
roads the GG ate up bikes, that it takes a period of adjustment to get ready for another.
fully onto its wavelength.
the corners This was my first time on the Continental
That wide ’bar works like a long lever and makes Attack SM tyres and they were faultless on the
2. Yep, that is a the steering super light as, in all probability, do road and track. Even when the ’pegs started to
big, rebadged KTM- the SM’s cast wheels, which are lighter than the tickle the surface, I still felt confident in the grip
Husqvarna family single spoked rims on the KTM and Husqvarna. That and feel. And while the SM 700 generates superb
said, they are only a fraction lighter and mainly mechanical grip, there are also excellent rider
3. Gibernau shows us there for looks. aids to fall back on. Traction control and ABS are
Supermoto: Sete-style! both lean-sensitive in Street mode. In Supermoto
The SM 700 is beautifully set up, too. On the mode, the TC will allow a small slide, and the ABS
4. Liking the look. racetrack we didn’t need to adjust the fully is active on the front wheel only. Use the bike’s
Given GasGas’s Moto3 adjustable WP suspension and didn’t even drop torque, get on the power early, the chassis (and
branding connection, is a the tyre pressures; just rolled onto the private TC) finds grip and propels you forward, darting
sportsbike version next? racetrack (at Sete’s house, by the way) and had away from the apex like a greyhound after a rabbit.
Braking is looked after by a huge 320mm disc
and Brembo four-piston monobloc caliper,
which do the job nicely, supported by the Bosch
cornering ABS system – a vital part of the package
given that we’re not all supermoto experts. The
added safety of the corning ABS gives you the
confidence to brake hard and deep to the apex,
while selecting Supermoto mode disengages the
rear, allowing you to drift into corners (or just pull
big skids). Away from the track, the stoppers have
a lovely feel and an adjustable lever. Again, the
lean-sensitive ABS will come in useful in mixed
conditions, and when carving up city traffic,
which the GasGas will do all too easily.
Each mode gives full power but with its own
throttle map. Cornering ABS and TC for the road
in Street mode, and ABS just on the front and less
sensitive TC on the rear in Supermoto mode. The
front wheel will lift a fraction in Street mode, a
foot or so off the ground depending on speed and
amcn.com.au 41
quickspin 1. Our man Child revelled in the power and usability of the SM 700
2022 GasGas SM 700
SPECS 1 It does take a little
getting used to. You
ENGINE gear. But for effortless wheelies you’ll need to opt
for the Supermoto mode. Should you wish, TC can have to commit
Capacity 693cc be turned off, but it can’t be trimmed – it’s either
Type Single cylinder, Street or Supermoto or off. Cornering ABS can’t be Service intervals are every 10,000km. Fuel
switched off either. consumption should be good with GasGas
four valves quoting 4.1L/100km, which from the 13.5L fuel
Bore & stroke 105 x 80mm The only real downside to the GasGas is that, tank (filled from the rear) will give a theoretical
Compression ratio 12.7:1 on track, it does take a little getting used to. You range of 270 kays. That’s around 230-odd kays
have to commit. If you sit conventionally in the before you’ll need to search for fuel. And, frankly,
Cooling Liquid seat and roll into corners, you’re asking a lot of after 200km, or close to two hours in the thin
Fueling EFI the front WP fork and grip of the Conti rubber. saddle, you will want a break.
Better to ride hard: brake heavily, get the forks
Transmission Six-speed compressed, turn while still on the brakes, and GasGas offers all the aftermarket goodies you’ll
Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slipper get the rear nice and loose. The GasGas will need for the track: handguards, crash protection,
accommodate a leisurely ride, no problem, but pit mat, tools and a choice of three slip-on
Final drive Chain if you head to a trackday, you need to get the exhausts. Away from the track, there are rear
supermoto-spec suspension working . racks, smartphone brackets and an ergo seat.
PERFORMANCE
But there is a practical side to the GasGas. Like its KTM sibling, the GasGas SM 700 is a
Power 55kW @ 8000rpm hooligan bike with a slightly more practical side
(claimed) 2022 GASGAS ES 700 ENDURO than its supermoto stance suggests. As well as
lean-sensitive riders aids and a usable engine,
Torque 73.5Nm @ 6500rpm GASGAS HAS ALSO released the ES 700 Enduro. it has a chassis that works both on the road and
(claimed) Yep, you guessed it, it’s very similar to the KTM 690 track. The elephant in the room is the fact that it
Enduro and Husqvarna 701 Enduro. The GasGas is essentially a KTM 690 SMC R in red with unique
Top speed 170km/h (est) shares the same 55kW/73.5Nm engine, trellis frame, styling and cast wheels, which don’t make a huge
Fuel consumption 4.1L/100km Brembo brakes with Bosch cornering ABS, and the difference to anything except looks.
same quality WP Xplor suspension. There are only
(claimed) two differences: the styling and the GasGas has a But copying the KTM makes perfect sense. It has
15mm taller seat at 935mm. the best, most powerful single-cylinder engine
ELECTRONICS on the market, brilliant handling and a suite of
useable rider aids that make supermoto riding
Type Not given more accessible to normal motorcyclists. Copying
Rider aids Cornering traction a bike that is already excellent, adding your own
design twist, logo and culture makes sense.
control, ABS
Rider modes Street and For me it’s the perfect second bike, albeit a
pricey one, to have in the back of the garage
Supermoto when you just want to have fun, and for that
reason I love it.
CHASSIS
And dare I say, I think I prefer red over orange.
Frame material Tubular steel
Frame type Trellis 2022 GASGAS SM 700
Rake 26.4°
Trail 110mm PROSFun to ride, looks great and awesome CONS Not great over a distance, pricey
Wheelbase 1470mm for a single and you’ll probably
handling on road and track. Economical, lose your licence.
SUSPENSION flexible motor.
Type WP
Front: 48mm USD Apex fork,
fully-adjustable, 215mm travel
Rear: Apex monoshock, fully-
adjustable, 240mm travel
WHEELS & BRAKES
Wheels Cast aluminium
Front: 17 x 3.0 Rear: 17 x 5.0
Tyres Continental Attack SM
Front: 120/70ZR17
Rear: 160/60ZR17
Brakes Brembo, ABS
Front: Single 320mm disc,
four-piston caliper
Rear: Single 240mm disc,
single-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS
Weight 148.5kg (dry, claimed)
Seat height 898mm
Width Not given
Height Not given
Length Not given
Ground clearance 238mm
Fuel capacity 13.5L
SERVICING & WARRANTY
Servicing First: 1000km
Minor: 10,000km
Major: 20,000km
Warranty Two years,
unlimited km
BUSINESS END
Price TBA
Colour options GasGas Red
Contact
www.gasgas.com/en-au
42 amcn.com.au
SHOP ONLINE AT
yssaustralia.com.au
CUSTOM TWIN SHOCKS AVAILABLE SHOP
03 9786 4414 Proudly Imported by Suspensions R Us | [email protected]
FIRST
044 RIDE
2022 TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120
If your idea of the perfect vintage- The motorcycling world is full to the brim
look motorcycle conjures up with retro offerings these days. Even if it’s
thoughts of The Fonz, Steve not your thing, it’s hard not to notice that
McQueen or James Dean, every manufacturer and its dog has at least
Triumph has the bike for you one bike masquerading as a retro bike. Some
have done it well, others not so much, but
after spending some time with Triumph’s
T120, I’m convinced that this is probably the
most complete package in the retro ranks.
I was looking forward to riding the T120, but no more
than I’d look forward to riding anything else. I’ve ridden a
bunch of retro-themed bikes and for the most part, I find
them to either look authentic and ride pretty average, or
ride well but the retro styling looks like an afterthought.
44 amcn.com.au
amcn.com.au 45
Triumph Bonneville T120
But after my first ride on Triumph’s T120 I was 1
hooked, and not just because of its classic looks.
The T120 has a good lick of old-school character, IT’S UNCWOMHIPCLHICIASTREDEFARNEDSHFIUNNGTO RIDE,
but with the abilities of a modern bike. Best of
all, it’s uncomplicated and fun to ride, which The T120 also features Triumph’s torque-assist 1. Ample torque
in this day and age of 40 modes and backlit clutch that makes the lever pull nice and light means slingshotting
buttons, is refreshing. adding further to that feeling of being on a small-
capacity bike. out of corners
The T120 received a few key updates in 2021
with the liquid-cooled, eight-valve, SOHC, Although Triumph doesn’t give much info away 2. Vorst was happy to
parallel twin now Euro 5 compliant. And despite about the exhaust system, it’s safe to expect that put the suspension to
this, Triumph has managed to keep the new the chrome 2-1-2 unit has come in for a Euro 5 work in the twisties
model’s peak power and torque identical to the workover. Even so, it looks the part, and for a
previous model. There’s also a new and lighter Euro 5 compliant system with pea-shooter 3. Reminders of the
crankshaft, balance shaft and clutch, all of looking outlets, it sounds pretty good – good original fifties T120
which combine to reduce inertia and speed up enough in fact that I’m not sure I’d change the
throttle response. system if I owned one, for any reason other than abound
to shave off a bit of weight. And I can’t remember
New lighter 32-spoke aluminium laced saying that about any other bike. 4. Footpegs are placed
wheels reduce unsprung weight, with braking comfortably for riders of
performance given a boost with new Brembo The T120 tips the scales at a rather plump 236kg
calipers and new rotors. The latest T120 also with a gut full of oil, coolant, brake fluid and its most sizes
benefits from refinements to the two riding 14.5 litre tank full to the brim, which is seven
modes, the dual-dial gauges have been freshened kilos less than the previous model. It’s heavy 5. The injectors look
up and cruise control is now standard rather for a bike that doesn’t outwardly appear to have like old carbs but deliver
than an option. much to it, but apart from when you’re shoving it
around by hand it hides it weight very well – again sound response plus
It’s easy to get distracted by the T120’s classic it just doesn’t feel like a big-bore bike. good fuel economy
looks and relatively small proportions and forget
that in between that tubular steel frame is a The weight is noticeable if you’re in the hills
1200cc parallel-twin engine – it just doesn’t feel playing but not in a negative way. It aids the stable
like you’re on a large-capacity bike when you feeling that the T120 has as it rides the bumpy
first sit on it. roads we’ve all come to expect smoothly without
Even once you’re rolling, you’ll find that the
eight-valve SOHC engine is a bit of a pussycat and
likes to purr away, deceptively building speed
without you even noticing. That’s not to say that
the T120 is low on power – it’s not, the water-
cooled twin can push out 58.8kW of power at
6550rpm and it really gets moving quickly. It’s just
an ultra-smooth and progressive power curve.
As nice as the power characteristics are, the
T120 is all about torque. On tap is 105Nm that
comes on strong from just off idle and peaks at
a low 3500rpm. There’s plenty of usable power
above that but the low-down grunt makes
cruising around in lazy mode so easy. But when
the mood takes you, the torque and power can get
the Trumpy moving at a serious pace and there’s
enough torque to send the front wheel sky high if
the mood overcomes you.
Unlike a few retro themed mounts I’ve ridden,
the T120 doesn’t fall into the ‘all show and no go’
category. It’s a very fast motorcycle, but the way
the engine makes its power is so smooth that you
just don’t realise how quick it is unless you’re
monitoring the speedo constantly.
Channelling that power and torque through to
the back wheel is a six-speed gearbox with a light
and positive action. You couldn’t ask for nicer;
there are no false neutrals, no clunkiness and no
trouble finding neutral when you’re stopped.
46 amcn.com.au
23 4
5
PEA SHOOTER DEVIL DETAILS ON THE BENCH ENGINE ROOM WHEELIE?
The Euro 5 compliant It’s the little things on the The contrast-stitched It may look retro but the New, lighter laced
2-1-2 exhausts have T120 that make it more seat sits 790mm off fuel-injected, water- wheels reduce unsprung
vintage-styled stinger- than just a cheap and cooled, parallel-twin weight and are wrapped
like tips but it’s still one cheerful vintage look- the ground and is more makes the T120 more in a set of Pirelli Phantom
of the better sounding comfortable than it looks than just a gimmicky Sports tyres that provide
a-like; brass finishes, if you’re going solo, but
bikes I’ve ridden in nice chrome and general retro offering – and isn’t decent grip, along with
stock form. it can get squashy for lacking on performance. retro looks.
attention to detail. larger riders with pillions.
amcn.com.au 47
Triumph Bonneville T120
ricocheting off every pothole. The T120’s tubular- issue and the ’pegs will touch down without a
steel twin cradle frame gives the bike an old school whole lot of effort. But with the suspension set up
feel as well, and doesn’t have the overly rigid feel of properly, or if you’re a lighter rider, you may find
many modern bikes. In fact, it feels a little flexible that this isn’t so much of an issue.
in a controlled and reassuring manner when
you’re really getting on it through the corners. According to Triumph, the T120 received new
higher-spec front twin-piston Brembo calipers
It’s not something that is a hinderance, just a for 2021. They don’t list what’s different about
trait, and you get used to it. And the flexibility them, but they do the business and, considering
has some plusses to it. Firstly, is helps to soak up the weight of the rig, they are perfect for the
bumps when you’re on the side of the tyre when application. The new ABS-equipped Brembos
the suspension is least effective, and secondly, it grip a set of large 310mm discs that provide
provides great feedback. It may feel a little loose plenty of stopping power and initial bite. They are
at first, but you always know what the T120 is up more than up to the task but obviously lack the
to through the seat of your pants. feel and outright stopping power of higher-spec
Brembo systems.
The suspension is up to the task for the type of
riding for which the T120 is intended. The front The rear features a single 255mm disc gripped
sports a non-adjustable 41mm cartridge fork that by a Nissin twin-piston caliper. The rear Nissin
provides a soft and supportive ride. For a rider of set-up is up to the challenge as much as the
my weight and speed, I’d like the front-end a bit Brembo kit is, and it’s great for pulling the bike
firmer. There’s a fair amount of dive under brakes around a reducing radius corner or steadying it
and the fork is still very compressed and trying while splitting lanes.
to get its act sorted mid-corner. I’m a big lad so I
wouldn’t call this an issue, I’d just firm the front You don’t get a lot of electronic fruit on the
up if I owned one. But on the flipside, the softness T120, and that’s just the way it ought to be with
does make for a very smooth ride in general and it a retro-themed bike. Millions of functions on
never bottomed out. a 42-inch, full-colour TFT screen with Dolby
digital and surround sound is all very nice, but
On the rear you’ll find a set of preload sometimes I just want to ride and test my skill,
adjustable shocks that are also on the soft side and experience a more pure and less clinical form
for me but generally work well – in a world full of motorcycling. And that’s what the T120 delivers.
of underperforming rear shocks, the T120 has a
decent set on its bum. There are, however, some basics to keep you
pointing in the right direction. There’s traction
With the suspension on the softer side for my control with inbuilt anti-wheelie, which you can
weight and riding style, ground clearance is an turn off with a single button, non-switchable ABS,
two ride modes (Road and Rain), a single-button
ETYLHOEEUCWTDRAOYONNI’TTICGOFEURTGUHAITTL,OTJTOUOBSFET cruise control system and even a USB port under
the seat.
The two-person bench-style seat is way more
comfortable than it looks and it’s good for a solid
couple of hours in the saddle without an issue if
you’re riding solo – not bad for a retro bike built
with form and function equally as important.
Seat height is up there at 790mm, so shorties
may struggle a bit, with the saving grace being
that the seat is fairly narrow. The news isn’t so
12
48 amcn.com.au
5
6
1. The twin-disc 3 BLOOD LINE 1
Brembos haul down the 4 2
236kg T120 with ease The T120 is available in four 3
variants for 2022 and while they 4
2. Footpegs touch down are mechanically identical, they
a mite soon for the give you a few options for your
larger-framed riders vintage pallet
3. Brass-themed fittings 1 Bonneville T120 $20,890
are a nice touch (ride away)
4. The exhausts are 2 Bonneville T120 Black $20,890
retro styled and sound (ride away) – same, same, only blacker
the part; no aftermarket
updates are required 3 Bonneville T120 Gold Line $22,090
5. There is no mistaking (ride away) – Feature hand-painted gold pin striping
the familiar
4 Bonneville T120 Black Gold Line $22,090
Triumph styling (ride away) – a mixture of the two
6. No need for Star
Wars styling when
conventional lights work
just fine, thank you
amcn.com.au 49
Triumph Bonneville T120
SPECS 1. The T120 may be
ENGINE styled to look pre-unit
but its powertrain is
Capacity 1200cc
Type Parallel twin, SOHC, very much 2020s
four-valves per cylinder 2. No TFT dash here;
Bore & stroke 97.6 x 80mm none is needed
Compression ratio 10.0:1
good if you’re riding two-up. The seat is on the TTCRHAIEUPMTOURPRIHGEIDHNATASHLEC19EL5RO9TOAKTI1NO2L0FY
Cooling Liquid short side so it’s a bit squashy for two, especially
Fueling EFI if you’re on the larger side of the BMI chart. the price of the T120. At $20,890 you get a lot of
bike and a lot of cool for your dollar. The T120
Transmission Six-speed The bonus is that you’ll have time to get your isn’t an underpowered and under-specced retro
Clutch Wet, multi-plate personal space back while you refill the fuel offering – the T120 is the real deal. You can play,
tank. The T120 is frugal on the gas, returning an or you can just kick it and cruise.
Final drive Chain average consumption of 4.9L/100km, so with
14.5 litres onboard, you’re looking at just under I may be gushing in my praise of the T120 but
PERFORMANCE 300 clicks before you’re stranded on the side of that’s just the way it has to be. It’s not overly
the road. exciting on the spec sheet but I loved what it is – a
Power 58.8kW @ 6550rpm grunty, good handling, bike that’s easy to ride.
(claimed) Like all Triumphs I’ve ridden recently, the It stops well, has a great finish and killer classic
finish and attention to detail is top notch, and looks. In the realm of vintage-looking modern
Torque 105Nm @ 3500rpm things like the chunky chrome tank badges, EFI motorcycles, the T120 is the most complete
(claimed) designed to look like carbies and even the mesh package I’ve ridden.
insert in the countershaft sprocket cover give it a
Top speed 160km/h (est) very premium look and feel.
Fuel consumption 4.9L/100km
Triumph has certainly captured the look of the
(measured) original 1959 T120. Side by side, you can see the
family resemblance; the new machine looks very
ELECTRONICS much like a beefier version of the old, with a few
modern touches.
Type Continental
Rider aids Traction control, ABS, I’m being totally honest when I say I had no
gripes with the T120 except that I can’t afford
cruise control one, and that’s more about living in Sydney than
Rider modes Road and Rain 12
CHASSIS 2022 TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE T120
Frame Tubular steel PROSGreat vintage looks in a bike that CONS Not much, but for my size and riding
Frame Twin cradle style a few bucks spent on the
actually performs as good as it looks, suspension would improve handling.
Rake 25.5° all at a price that’s easy to digest.
Trail 105.2mm
Wheelbase 1460mm
SUSPENSION
Type Kayaba
Front: 41mm telescopic fork,
non-adjustable
Rear: Twin RSU shocks, adjustable
preload
WHEELS & BRAKES
Wheels Wire-spoked aluminium
Front: 18 x 2.75 Rear: 17 x 4.25
Tyres Pirelli Demon Sport
Front: 100/90-18
Rear: 150/70R17
Brakes Brembo/Nissin, ABS
Front: Twin 310mm discs,
dual- piston caliper
Rear: Single 255mm disc,
dual-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS
Weight 236kg (kerb, claimed)
Seat height 790mm
Width 780mm
Height 1100mm
Length Not given
Ground clearance Not given
Fuel capacity 14.5L
SERVICING & WARRANTY
Servicing First: 1000km
Intervals: 16,000km/12 months
Warranty Two years,
unlimited km
BUSINESS END
Price $20,890 (ride away)
Colour options Cordovan Red/
Silver Ice, Cobalt Blue/Silver Ice
or Jet Black
Contact
triumphmotorcycles.com.au
50 amcn.com.au
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2022-05-26 Australian Motorcycle News
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