Practical Sportsbikes

TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE

The Speed Triple is no longer carving its own nudist niche – so now it has all new
running gear to take on the Euro supernakeds. Sadly, it hasn’t worked out

Words: Chris Newbigging Photography: Kingdom Creative/Chippy Wood/Stuart Collins

You can see the Hinckley lineage, but the Triumph
naked line is not strengthened
50 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

He like thems big, he likes
them unclothed. But he’s not
got the horn for this one

T ihe Speed Triple is a supernaked classic. different. At a 198kg claimed wet weight, it’s 10kg
It’s been around since the early days of trimmer than the 1050, and the lightest in class (by a
the class: Triumph like to say they were single kilo, from Ducati’s Streetfighter). They’ve gone
the first to build a sportsbike-based all in: but are keen to stress this is a road bike first,
with the equipment and potential for trackdays;
naked in 1994, though they’ve Öhlins suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers and
Metzeler Racetec RR K3 rubber is serious stuff.
obviously overlooked the 888-framed, 900SS-
The old bike had the 2002 Daytona 955i just above it
powered Ducati Monster from two years before that. in its family tree – a bike on the sensible side of sporty,
even at the time. All the way through the 1050 lineage,
And the modular Triumphs weren’t exactly sporty to it retained the solid, inertia-rich feel of that bike – a
locomotive-like impression of force. Once it’s motoring,
begin with, but that’s by the by… it’ll plough on, regardless of road conditions. It’s never
been agile, but sure-footed, stable cornering goes a long
The T509/955i models really set the tone, and by the way – especially in R/RS guise with the quality touch of
Öhlins suspension.
time the purpose-designed 1050 model appeared,
Some of that feeling is still present, but the
they had established their credentials for gutsy membership at Slimming World has paid off – it’s more
responsive to every input. The new brakes are better
nakeds. A big, torquey triple in a high-spec chassis, set too – the MCS mastercylinder has an adjustable ratio,
allowing you to vary the progression/feel at the lever
on the stable side of sporty, made for a great road bike through three settings. I preferred the mid-setting.

– fun, but mature. It struck a chord with many, as the The motor wastes no time in showing off the results
of its fitness program. Crack the ride-by-wire grip, and
faces at bike events grew ever older… the three-pot picks up from the bottom end with force,

In the last few years its rivals have got ever more All the right names – the front end is a decent piece of work

extreme: the Tuono, S1000R, and Streetfighter in

particular. Around 30bhp extra, less weight, more

aggression. Even so, the Triumph worked well on the

road, and surprisingly well on track. Over a decade of

refinement to the basic package made it easy to use

everything it had, despite a spec-sheet deficit.

That’s all in the past. Gone is the Daytona T595-

derived engine of last year. It’s now 1160cc, going

11mm bigger on the bore, and just over 10mm shorter

on the stroke. The gearbox is stacked, the crank

lighter, with a 12% inertia reduction. It matches the

old bike on power and torque until around 6750rpm,

then keeps on building where the old bike’s power

tailled off, revving on a further 650rpm to

11,150rpm. It’s a proper modern engine.

And that dictates the rest of the bike is new: a new

frame (looks like the old one, but has a higher

swingarm pivot, and a slacker head angle), a new

swingarm too (55mm longer – compensating for the

shorter engine). It has a new subframe, new

bodywork… it’s a little bit narrower between your

’pegs and feet, and the ’bars are wider. Even the seat is

reprofiled for more comfort, they say. It looks a lot

like the old one, but the metal and numbers say

JUNE 2021 | PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK 51

TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE which never lets up. Fair dinkum, as our Aussie cousins
might once have said. They’ve truly cost it nothing in
The very roads on which it should excel are the ones which tax it torquey response in the process of adopting modern
Throttle and front brake, high-revving short-stroke engine architecture. It feels
like the old one, but just… more so. Faster response,
absolutely fine. Dash, no more power, more revs. The feel is not unlike a modern
GSX1100EFE, with that sense of endless, elastic grunt
hurling you up the road - but with 160bhp, not 100.
Instantly one of the great 21st Century engines.

With power comes responsibility, in this case, the
responsibility to make sure the rest of the bike is up to
it. That was the beauty of the old bike – it was a
well-matched package. Not now…

Rider aids: the last one had them, so does this one,
and they’re only incrementally improved. Traction
control and wheelie control are integrated, and there
are only four settings, linked to the ride mode (along
with ABS and throttle response), plus a fifth ‘Rider’
mode to mix and match as you wish, but only within
parameters determined by Triumph. Or turn them off.

The urgent, yet torquey, delivery works them way
harder than before to keep the bike on the floor and the
tyres gripping, when set more intrusively. Select ‘Sport’,
and intervention is reduced, but not enough to set the
bike free. The machine is torn between the engine’s
desire to go like hell, and the electronics reacting to the
various data inputs. The IMU means the bike responds
to bike attitude as well, but it doesn’t have the polished
feel of the best systems, which are like being trained in
a dual-control aeroplane – you’re mostly left to your
own devices, enjoying the experience, with only subtle
corrections from teacher to optimise your trajectory, or
stop you ploughing to earth if you really botch the job.
The Triumph shouts and grabs the controls from you.

Sometimes, the system nannies you – holding you

“Better response, more
power, more revs. Instantly

one of the great 21st
Century engines”

52 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

TRIUMPH SPEED TRIPLE

back excessively as it responds to normal moments of Nothing at all wrong with THE SPECS
lift, or a squirming back tyre. Other times, you find the engine, or the chassis. It
yourself considering cloud formations with the front just needs another six ENGINE
tyre poking into the bottom of your field of vision. If it months development to
manages to maintain a small amount of lift that still lets finish the fine detail Type: lliquid-cooled, dohc 12v inline-triple, 120º crank
it drive forward, you feel it working overtime, rather Capacity: 1160cc
than gently tempering torque at an optimum level. The exhaust has moved Bore x stroke: 90 x 60.8mm
from under the seat to down Power: 177.5bhp@10,750rpm (claimed)
There’s a further factor at play too: the shock. Others low. The fuel cap no longer Torque: 92.19lb.ft@9000rpm (claimed)
on the launch said the bike felt harsh. Bounce the tail has a key, just a solenoid
and it’s clear that it’s not heavily damped, it’s actually CHASSIS
quite free-moving. I wasn’t able to get a tape measure
out to corroborate this, but I’m certain the issue is too Frame: aluminium-alloy twin-spar
much sag compounded by soft damping – the bike sits Front suspension: Öhlins NIX30 43mm USD
low at the rear, and soon runs through its range of telescopic fork, preload/compression/rebound
travel. There’s very little left to do the absorption bit. adjustable
Rear suspension: Öhlins TTX36 monoshock, preload/
The forks are way firmer, so the bike’s inclination is compression/rebound adjustable
to sit down at the rear rather than have both ends Front brakes:2x 320mm discs, Brembo Stylema
responding in harmony. That unloads the front – four-piston calipers
accentuated by the upright riding position with zero Rear brake: 220mm disc, Brembo opposed-piston
wind protection, and the grunt at hand. Nervousness caliper
and understeer result, and feel from the Metzelers is
not what it should be. DIMENSIONS

Talking of which, the tyres are overkill. You might Wheelbase: 1455mm
think you can never have too much tyre, but Racetecs Rake/trail: 23.9°/104.7mm
are designed for tracks, trail braking, big lean, and Wet weight (claimed): 198kg
hefty throttle application – not for B-roads. They’re Seat height: 830mm
made to be used in a different way. A sports road tyre Fuel capacity: 15.5 litres
(as tested in this issue, page 62) would be more
versatile, and offer more confidence and grip on the TECHNOLOGY
road: profile, compound, and tread pattern would be
way more effective for most Speed Triple owners. Five rider modes, variable throttle/power maps,
Triumph all but admitted the Racetec is just as much adjustable cornering-sensitive traction control,
about spec-sheet one-upmanship as it is grip. adjustable cornering ABS, cruise control, Bluetooth
connectivity, keyless ignition/fuel cap/steering lock
There are other gripes: the dash is not as easy to read
as a basic/speed rpm display, and adding the usual BUYING
tripmeter functions to it is convolute. Two Triumph
engineers took several minutes to work out how to add Price: £15,100
fuel range to the ‘home’ screen for another rider. Not a Contact: triumphmotorcycles.co.uk
good sign when the bike you designed isn’t clear to you.

It’s not helped by the switchgear, which puts the
menu switches in the way of horn and indicator
functions. More than once, I hit the wrong button – it’s
not instinctive, not ready at your thumb’s beck and call.
The keyless system now incorporates the fuel cap and
steering lock (making it worthwhile), but the working is
slow and clunky. And that new seat doesn’t support well
either, you quickly get sore.

On track, it’s not much better. The recommended
track settings help (damping only, there wasn’t time to
delve into preload/sag), but there’s a lot of power and
torque at work, in an imperfectly set up chassis, with
electronics that have a limited scope for adjustment.

The old bike, at 130bhp or so, didn’t really need
them. Now, at 170-odd horses, it does. You’re better off
on a restrictive traction control setting – it holds it back
a little, but it pushes the front less and doesn’t pull
unwanted, uncontrolled wheelies at critical moments,
so the net result is faster laps despite the interference.

It feels a compromised bike in need of more
development. But it’s a £15,100 ask. If you’ve worked
hard for that kind of disposable cash, it’s perfectly
reasonable to have higher expectations.

A naked bike should have sportsbike performance,
delivered in a manner that doesn’t feel totally
inappropriate on the road. And it should make you grin
like a domestic cat from the Cheshire Gap.

This Triumph now lacks that: it irritates and fights
you, despite the excellent engineering at its core. The
next revision has the potential to be stunning, but for
now, the Speed Triple is a poorer experience.

JUNE 2021 | PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK 53

BATHAMS RACING

Upgrade time

Rutter’s Bathams Racing crew (ie Alec) gets underneath the 2021
homologation special BMW to see what it’s got. He’s impressed

With: Alec Tague

BMW M1000RR THIS IS ALEC TAGUE SPEAKING... STORY SO FAR M1000RR complete with Euro5 exhaust and standard
fuelling not only made the same power, but also
WHEN THE CALL CAME from BMW Brand new Beemer actually makes more torque in the last third of the revs.
that the first of our new M1000RR’s M1000RR gets run-in, What an engine.
was ready for collection, I was over shows some numbers
the moon. Not just because learning a on a dyno, then gets The next job was to disconnect all the various sensors
new bike is always good, but it also that throw up alarms, and then switch the alarms off;
meant that I could go back to work. It’s ripped apart stuff like the sidestand and exhaust servo sensors. And
been a long time since the final round then label all the remaining connectors to make life
of the 2020 season at Brands Hatch, that’s felt even Who are easy just in case the loom ever needs replacing. It’s good
longer without our regular trip to Macau, so getting Bathams practice anyway for working on the bike to know what
busy back on the spanners was very welcome. Racing? every connector is and where it goes at a glance; it saves
Michael and Johnny spent a day at an airfield going a lot of time over the course of a race weekend. The
up and down the runway to get the first 500 miles on it. Michael Rutter runs his devil is in the detail.
After they finished, I took it to Williams BMW at own road-racing and
Manchester to unlock the rev limiter that they come British Superstock team I fitted the Arrow exhaust system from Dan’s bike
with until they’re run in, then it was off to the dyno to from the Bathams which gave an instant increase in power, but also made
see how much power and torque it makes – a lot. brewery, with Alec it run a bit lean. So we corrected the fuelling, then put it
Without a single modification other than disabling Tague as crew chief. back in the van to get it back to the workshop. On the
the running-in 8000rpm rev limiter, it makes as much They’re backing Richard journey back, I was thinking just how impressive the
power as the bike Dan Linfoot finished in second Cooper and Taylor M1000RR is. And that was before I even started to strip
position on at Brands Hatch; let’s just say more than Mackenzie for 2021. the chassis...
200bhp. The bike Dan raced had six months of
development and set up time by us, not to mention a ‘Wow’ is all I can say about the build quality. It’s
full race exhaust system. It was one of the best unbelievably trick, and the details and quality of finish
S1000RRs on the grid, and the totally standard are off the chart. It’s up there with the very best
homologation specials of the ’90s. Over the years I’ve
worked on some really trick race bikes, and I can
categorically say the M1000RR is right up there with

54 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

THE GARAGE / RACE BIKES

Last season’s bike (nearest) and the 2021 M1000RR. It’s
already way gooderer – and hasn’t even been breathed on yet

Captive rear wheel stays in position with
the spindle out – ideal for TT changes, and
just another trick, stock touch

“That’s gotta be a good fifty quid on eBay, The difference between most of us and Alec is that he’ll be
what do you reckon, Blade?” able to find all the stray fasteners, and put them back in the
correct holes
Pull the road gear off, and race-ready
datalogging plugs straight into the standard the best RC30s, RVFs and R7s. I’ve never had any
wiring. It’s a special bit of kit, and no mistake complaints about the S1000RR’s build quality or
materials, it is also a brilliantly engineered and really
well put together bike, but the M1000RR is on another
level and worth every single penny of the extra £15,345
it costs over the standard S1000RR.

The rear wheel is captive, so you take the spindle out
and the wheel stays in position sitting on a machined
block that is held in position by the captive chain
adjusters, so with the spindle out, you nudge the wheel
forward to a machined notch at exactly the right
distance to give enough slack in the chain to lift it off
the sprocket, then you lift the wheel out.

Captive wheels aren’t anything new, they get used in
racing all the time, especially at the TT where there’s pit
stops, but I’ve never seen one on a road bike, let alone
one this simple and well made. I would have no
hesitation in using it exactly as it is at the TT.

THE GARAGE / RACE BIKES

BATHAMS RACING

“Mmmm, suppose I could
dismantle the chain, rivet by rivet.
Yeah, might as well”

Castellated, vented Other trick things I’ve noticed are that the airbox is
pistons, and slightly tacky very different to the S1000RR, specifically the velocity
blue anodising on the 2021 stacks are much longer in the M1000RR’s, the brake
Nissin four-pots calipers have slotted and vented pistons to help with
cooling, and the rear caliper’s piston is coated with
There are plenty worse Teflon. The carbon bracket that fixes the wings to the
jobs than running-in a chassis is out of sight and therefore will probably never
split-new BMW M1000RR be seen. BMW could have made it out of any material,
on a deserted airfield but they’ve gone to the trouble (and cost) of not only
making it from carbon, but from really high-grade
Undoing all the factory’s work. Surely it would have been carbon too.
easier to send him a bag of bits and let him get on with it?
Next stop was K-Tech to be measured up for new fork
Speaking of rear wheels, we won’t be using the internals and a rear shock. I’ve noticed there’s an
M1000RR’s carbon wheels, even though we’re allowed adjuster on the top of the rear linkage that looks as
to. It’s basically down to cost, the forged wheels we though it works in conjunction with the adjustable
already have are very good quality and we already have swingarm position to maintain the bike’s ride height. If
enough. The front wheel goes straight in, but we’re the swingarm position is changed, a follow up
working with Fortis Motorsport to produce a spacer for adjustment to the adjuster at the top of the linkage
the rear wheel. The offset on the rear brake disc is restores your set ride height. It’s trick stuff.
different to the S1000RR which has its rear brake disc
inboard of the rim. However, on the M1000RR it’s With the suspension done, engine mapped for the
flush, so there’s about 25mm difference. exhaust and all the road gear removed, we couldn’t
wait to give it a run and to start really understanding it.
So, we entered Taylor into a race at Darley Moor on
Easter weekend on it. As a bonus, it would also be the
world race debut for the M1000RR. That was good for
us, for Bathams, and the organisers at Darley Moor. But
most importantly the goal was to get Taylor on the bike
and experiment with settings. We won: but learned
valuable lessons about the bike too.

At the time of writing, Richard Cooper’s bike has now
arrived, so I’m on with repeating the process with that
one to have it ready for when the little fella’s fit enough
to return to racing.

56 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021





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The inner workings of a violent madman.
The 2004-2005 ZX-10R remains one of the most
memorable and standout litre-class sportsbikes

ever made and a surefire next-wave classic

I N C O R P O R AT I N G

BUY IT. BUILD IT. RIDE IT.

Practical Sportsbikes, incorporating Performance Bikes, is not just for people who own a bike: it’s
for people who live for them. Riders, restorers, maintainers and modifiers. Brought to you by an
experienced team who own, ride and fettle their own bikes as well as write about them.There’s no
better place to read road tests, features on readers’ bikes, follow our projects, or benefit from advice
on bikes from the 1970s to the present day.
Chris Newbigging, Editor

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PB SPORTY ROAD TYRE TEST 2021

SPORTY

ROAD TYRE TEST

Safe in the cold and wet, yet sticky enough to give it big
licks at the height of summer, these are the ideal tyres for

spirited riding on performance-oriented bikes

Words Chris Newbigging/Matt Wildee | Photography Jason Critchell

TYRES
ON TEST:

Bridgestone S22
Continental SportAttack 4

Dunlop SportSmart 3
Metzeler Sportec M9RR

Michelin Power 5
Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II

Avon were offered the same opportunity to submit
their 3D Ultra Evo for test, but did not
respond to our request.

yres these days are incredible – a sports summer blast, and even stand up to track use. A sports
touring tyre will quite possibly last too long for the
T touring tyre can often provide average rider – age and heat cycles will affect
everything the average do-everything performance long before the tread depth compels you
motorcyclist needs: long life, wet- to change them. Sports tyres still provide superior
feedback, agility and a sense of ‘come on, let’s have fun’.
weather security, and fun in the
The six sports tyres on test are available in all the
twisties. Great. But what if you don’t need longevity common sizes from 180/55, to 200/60 – whatever
profile you desire for your 5.5/6-inch rim sizes, and
to see you around the world, or wet weather grip to covering most bikes from a 1990 FZR1000 onwards.
Some are available as narrow as a 150-section rear for
rival a sea lion on an algae-covered rock? For anyone lightweights, too.

with a sporty bike using it primarily for fun, the true Time for a PB test, then. We chose a KTM Super Duke
as our test bike – with 100lb.ft of torque delivered hard
sports tyre still has a lot going for it over the sensible and early, cutting-edge radial brakes, and high-spec
chassis parts (with conventional, not semi-active
choice. Just about every manufacturer has released a

new one in the last 18 months.

These are tyres that will now see out anywhere

between 3000-5000 road miles from a rear, get up to Every tyre in this test had
to cope with 100lb.ft of
temperature properly on the first dry but cool days of Super Duke stomp laid
down hard for 50.6 miles
spring, give agile handling and tactile feel on a

62 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

THE GARAGE / TYRE TEST

“Sports tyres still
provide superior
feedback, agility,
and a sense of come
on let’s have fun”

suspension). The perfect road bike to put big demands Mark Brunt (aka Frank The bike was refuelled with every new set of tyres:
on the latest offerings. We dialled in KTM’s Zappa). Top mobile tyre Chris rode first on cold, new tyres, ex-PB editor/now
recommended track settings – although firm and able man on 07912 158649 RiDE magazine editor Matt Wildee rode second on
to provide support and feedback to both work the tyres warm rubber with suspension up to temp too, so both
and communicate their behaviour, they weren’t too riders experienced each set in a consistent way.
harsh for a quick road ride, and made sure any positive
or negative behaviour from each tyre was able to be Weather was dry, fine and around 8-9ºC all day
felt: stable tyres calmed the bike, edgier tyres invoked – no rain, minimal wind, and typical of early/late UK
the potential instability of a grunty, light supernaked. riding season. Mark Brunt of Mobile Bike Tyres
(based in Sleaford) fitted each set, and ensured the
We selected a 25.3-mile route which both riders are riders got on the bikes blind to rule out any
familiar with, mixing faster and tighter, more nadgery preconceptions, or previous experience prejudicing
A/B-roads with grippy surfaces, minor roads with feedback. He also supplied the prices you see for
cracked, potholed and rutted tarmac, areas of polished comparison – he’s quoted fitted, to loose wheels. We
bitumen, big bumps, relentless stretches of rippled opted to run 36 psi front and rear – in our experience,
surfaces and more. In short, an intense snapshot of the a good pressure for all conditions for solo use, no
most testing conditions these tyres will see in the UK. luggage, balancing grip/feel and safety.

JUNE 2021 | PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK 63

Metzeler Great feel, warmed-up
Sportec M9RR quickly, scored high on

Cost: £119/£158 confidence. Righto

New at the start of 2020, the M9RR’s
predecessor the M7RR astounded us when
Michael Rutter achieved a 121mph standing-
start lap on a set fitted to a GSX-R1000R
road bike, run at road pressures, without
tyre warmers. Handling, cold/wet weather
grip and increased durability from changes
to the split between the harder central
compound, and the soft shoulders are touted
as the main developments.

CHRIS’S FEEDBACK MATT’S FEEDBACK

Steering High-speed agility good, leisurely into slow Accurate and easy – they were really
corners, front needs loading a little to really predictable and had a better rate of turn than
dive to apexes. 8/10 the standard tyres, without dropping into
corners. 9/10

Confidence Warmed-up quickly, happy to push from the These felt as good at the start of the ride as
first mile or two. Feel and grip very good, no they did once warm. Because of the steering
moments on good surfaces, slipped a little and how easy they were to place, they let
more than others on polished surfaces. 9/10 you exploit the bike. 9/10

Stability No major wobbles – mild warning flutters More stable than OE, if the bike got squirrelly
over rippled surfaces when very hard on the over bumps it calmed down very quickly.
gas, landed wheelies with stability, dealt with Better than OE leant over on bumps. 9/10
heavily rutted tarmac well. 8/10

Ride Quality Quiet over rippled surfaces, cushioned larger Really nice – less crashy than OE and better
over sharp-edged bumps. Felt like the
hits. Very good mid-corner too. 8/10 suspension had been set-up better. 9/10

Feel Excellent at all times, allowed me to catch Loads of feel – they let you know exactly 87
Comments slides on dusty surfaces before the KTM’s what’s going on, even in cool conditions. You
electronics. High-speed feel very good, front seem to always know how much grip is there.
better than rear. 9/10 Loads of rear grip on a powerful bike. 9/10

Very supportive with little carcass deflection, Wonderful tyres that helped to exploit the
yet still compliant. High-speed feel and side characteristics of the Super Duke, making it
grip the standout feature from this. Quick more stable and fun. Would work on any
scrub/warm-up impressive too. 42/50 bike. 45/50

64 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

THE GARAGE / TYRE TEST

Continental SportAttack 4

Cost: £119/£164

A relative latecomer to sporty rubber, Conti have learned fast with every
generation of SportAttack since 2005. This version debuts the ‘Black Chili
Compound’ for the first time on a bike tyre: a compound construction claimed
to optimise use of the contact patch, simultaneously improving dry/wet grip
and extending life. The surface is treated to be ‘rough’, shortening the
scrubbing-in process.

CHRIS’S FEEDBACK MATT’S FEEDBACK

Steering Slower steering than set one (Metzeler) – Consistent, and reasonably agile, but didn’t
consistent rate of turn at all speeds feel inspiring. Reasonable rate of turn, but
predictable. Feel like a more road-biased not really any better than OE rubber. 7/10
profile, make the KTM feel heavier. 6/10

Confidence Scrubbed-in and warmed-up easily, grip Felt fine for just riding around on, but their
good once you put a bit of faith in and solidity meant you didn’t get the reassurance
pushed. Slow turn/average feel. Grip good, you get with some of the other tyres. A bit
less slip on slippiest sections. 7/10 more of a leap of faith. 7/10

Stability Very stable. Only small movements from the A little bit better than the OE tyres, they had a
’bars at high speed. Stable on the brakes, level of reassurance that made them nice on
leaned over, or on the power. Would suit a bumpy roads at brisk speeds. 8/10
bike with nervous tendencies. 9/10

Ride Quality Very good – compliant without being overly No getting away from the fact these felt
soft. Better than set one (Metzeler), no harder and harsher over bumps, meaning
problems on the various rough surfaces and you’d feel it in your back and kidneys where 74
defects. 9/10 you wouldn’t with others. 7/10
Experiencing the delights
Feel Average levels of feel – not vague, but an Again, OK for feel. The tyre wasn’t ‘dead’ but of the Black Chili
element of trust required, even when hot. there wasn’t the level of reassurance you get Compound
Doesn’t get any worse at high speed, but with the others. You had to ‘trust’ them. 7/10
markedly less feel than set one. 7/10

Comments Feels like a more road-oriented tyre, with Nothing really wrong with these tyres – and
stability and comfort prioritised over worth considering if you can get a good deal.
steering. Would help calm bikes with stability But they just aren’t as good as some of the
issues, or improve poor ride quality. 38/50 others on this test 36/50

“Feels like a road-oriented tyre,
would help calm bikes with
stability issues, or improve
poor ride quality”

“Will I be able to remember “OK when upright,
what I’m thinking when I more sensitive to
get back? Oh Christ, I do
hope so...” mid-corner bumps and
ripples. You go into
corners with less
confidence”

Dunlop
SportSmart 3

Cost: £112/£177

The first SportSmart was great, though
the second-generation lost the track-
developed ‘N-TEC’ sidewall construction
that was key to its feel, becoming a more
road-focussed tyre. The new generation is
claimed, in particular, to be better in the
wet and more durable, as well as having
an enhanced general performance.

CHRIS’S FEEDBACK MATT’S FEEDBACK

Steering Quicker than set two, not quite as agile in Really nice and accurate with a similar level
high speed direction changes as set one. of input needed for fast and slow corners.
Decent roll rate into tighter, medium lean Inspiring enough help you enjoy the bike.
corners than set two (Continental). 7/10 8/10

Confidence Took a while to scrub-in and warm-up, More so than OE, these let you exploit what
and didn’t immediately give confidence. the bike can do – mostly because the front
Feel at the sportier end of the category, tyre feels so good and accurate. 9/10
more sensitive to cold roads. 7/10
No complaints at all – the tyre doesn’t
Stability Similar to set one (Metzeler), though less shimmy or shake with my style of riding. Quite
consistent – sometimes no reaction, then literally unflappable. 9/10
sudden, high-frequency wobbles. Allow the
front to unload more on the power. 6/10 Less crashy than OE, and better over any
sort of undulation, big or small. Worked well
Ride Quality OK when upright, more sensitive to with the suspension. 8/10
mid-corner bumps and ripples, and more
likely to put you off line. You go into corners Front tyre feels lovely and plush, but the 78
with less confidence because of this. 7/10 back is a bit stiffer. Not as harsh as the
Contis, though. Really happy over rough
Feel Good when warm, rear very good, front roads. 9/10
average – don’t feel as keyed-in as set one
(Metzeler), tend to get vague running out of Really good, fun tyre that felt more suited to
corners with a little understeer. 8/10 brisk road work than track use. But that’s
totally fine with us. 43/50
Comments Reward more committed input but don’t
immediately instill confidence. Possibly a
tyre suited to warmer temperatures, or
just less grippy than others. 35/50

66 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

THE GARAGE / TYRE TEST

Michelin Power 5

Cost: £121/£163

The latest in the line of 2CT sports-tyres tyres, which pioneered dual-compound
technology on bikes. The tread pattern is similar to the touring Road 5, but the
construction is more closely related to Michelin’s race tyres, balancing road sensibilities
with the dynamic attributes of a race tyre, so says Bibendum et ses amis.

CHRIS’S FEEDBACK MATT’S FEEDBACK

Steering Excellent, best set so far. Never needs Lovely – nimble, excited, and really nice in
anything more than a light countersteer at slow and fast corners. One of the best we’ve
any speed, whether from upright or in a tried. 9/10
direction change. 9/10
Loads of feel, and lots of confidence from
Confidence Warmed up quickly, if not as quickly as set these two. The way they felt like they were
one (Metzeler), then instilled lots of moulding around the tarmac was inspiring
confidence in all situations. 9/10 10/10

Stability Very good – gave small shimmies as a Definitely got a little bit more wayward than
warning but no violent reactions or big some of the others – felt like it could have
shakes. Stable mid-corner too, and on the been because of a softer construction. 7/10
brakes 8/10
Really plush. A little bit more busy than the
Ride Quality Very good – still firm but take the edge off Metzelers, but they smoothed out the bumps 88
and made the suspension feel better. 9/10
lumpy sections of road compared to the

harshest sets in this test. 8/10

Feel Brilliant. Knew exactly what the bike was You can actually feel the difference between
Comments doing all the time. Losses of traction on the being on smooth and coarse tarmac though
polished tarmac areas were predictable and the ’bars. Front-end feels great on the road in
manageable. 10/10 cool conditions. 9/10

Dynamic tyre with all the performance a bike Just brilliant – a lovely set of tyres for road
like the KTM needs, with lots of feedback use, and feel like they would work well on
that encourages you to ride to the best of any sporty bike, especially one that is
your ability in comfort and security. 44/50 inherently stable. 44/50

If you could see his little
face, you’d know he was
having a fine old time of it

JUNE 2021 | PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK 67

Bridgestone “Neutral behaviour and no real
Battlax S22 negatives. Good, but not
exceptional”
Cost: £118/£165

A moderate development of the S21,
Bridgestone claim significant
improvements in wet grip and tyre life,
while still managing to make
incremental improvements (and no
sacrifices) in dry weather grip, feel and
handling.

Could so easily be Chris: “Neutral behaviour
and no real negatives. Good, but not
exceptional”

CHRIS’S FEEDBACK MATT’S FEEDBACK

Steering Neutral – not fast, but still accurate at high They had a nice rate of turn to them that
speed, acceptable level of effort. Nice nimble made them work really well, but never really
low-speed steering. 8/10 inspired. Other tyres felt more nimble,
though. 8/10

Confidence Safe – not as edgy and sporty in feel as Worked really well from cold and over greasy
others, but a tyre you can put faith in when roads suggested good wet-weather
warm. Took a little longer still for them to performance too. 9/10
deliver the last bit of feel. 9/10

Stability Lots of low frequency headshakes from the Not bad at all, the ’bars shook a bit, but it
front. Got better with heat – 15 miles in they never felt like the torque and drive of the KTM
calmed down, better on the return leg on a would overwhelm anything. 8/10
stretch also used for the outward leg. 7/10

Ride Quality Dealt with torn surfaces and bumpy sections Felt much the same as OE rubber, so not 81
bad at all, but not as plush as some. You’d
fairly well. OK mid-corner, but not quite in the be happy enough with them, though. 8/10

top bracket. 8/10

Feel Good, just not exceptional – in keeping with Pretty good, they didn’t inspire me to lever the
Comments the general safe, neutral feel. Were good on bike onto its side, but equally I was never
an isolated wet stretch after a shower, too. worried. Rear hung on well. 8/10
8/10
I can tell why a version of these are fitted as
Neutral behaviour and no real negatives, but OE on the Super Duke – they’re a good
only average, with a slightly sporty feel. They all-round choice. 41/50
certainly got better when thoroughly worked
to operating temperature. 40/50

68 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

THE GARAGE / TYRE TEST

Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II

Cost: £124/£168

Touting Pirelli’s WSB learnings, the Rosso Corsa II has a dual-compound front construction,
and three compounds in the rear – a hard centre flanked by two stages of progressively
softer rubber to suit the mid-corner and exit drive phases. Agility, grip and more uniform
wear are claimed over the last version.

CHRIS’S FEEDBACK MATT’S FEEDBACK

Steering Light, accurate steering. Not quite as Felt good, but ‘fell in’ to corners more than
effortless as some. Feels like a tyre that some of the others – you can tell that they’re
would support even more aggressive trail the sportiest here. Not always what you
braking than was possible on the road. 9/10 need. 8/10

Confidence Felt like they weren’t in their operating range Pretty good, even during quick riding they
in grip or feel, had some loss of traction always felt like they were working within their
where others were fine. Never quite reached window. Felt a bit wooden until they were
the trust levels of other tyres. 6/10 getting warm, though. 9/10

Stability Very stable – even a power wheelie No problems at all, they calmed down
inadvertently landed crossed-up on rough reasonably well over bumps, and didn’t feel
ground didn’t upset them, when I’d expect as if any wobbles would overwhelm the bike.
some sort of shake. 10/10 8/10

Ride Quality Very strong in this regard, damping the Just what you need. They damped out 81
hard-edged bumps well, but weren’t as
harshest of the bumps upright or at lean. plush as set one (Metzeler) and set four
(Michelin). 8/10
9/10
A decent amount of feel, but you did
Feel More movement with these than any other – sometimes feel like you were operating in the
felt as if they weren’t reaching operating bottom of their range. 8/10
temperature. Found myself riding with more
in reserve compared to others. 6/10 Not bad at all, but the sportiest tyres here
don’t feel as good an all-rounder as others in
Comments Strong scores in some areas, yet somehow the test. But if I were doing a trackday…
lacking in feel and grip. Maybe suited more 41/50
exclusively to track use. Lacked the breadth
of ability of some other tyres here. 40/50

Feel and confidence were big let downs
on the road. Track might be different...

JUNE 2021 | PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK 69

OVERALL VERDICT That’s the Old Farmer
brimming with confidence
T esting six tyres back-to-back in the in the Power 5 Michie – the
same conditions dispels the notion
that ‘they’re all the same – black winner (the tyre, that is)

and round, yeah?’ Of course, there

are no crap tyres here – none of these

manufacturers are new to the game, and this

latest generation benefit from continuous

development, customer comments and

feedback from tests like ours from around the

world. Trust us, they sulk if they get

particularly poor feedback… You soon feel

the difference when tested this way, however.

The scores here are relative to each other,

not to any previous test. The Continentals and

Dunlops at the bottom are good: fine, middle

of the road. They just didn’t amaze with their

performance, or really inspire you to push

harder and get more enjoyment from the ride,

in the context of the best on test, which

enhanced the bike. Pirelli’s Diablo Rosso

Corsa II shone in some areas, but being at the

sportier/slightly more track-developed end of

this class, they lacked some of the immediate

confidence and reassuring properties the

winner and runner-up offer. The Bridgestone

matched the Pirelli’s overall score with a

consistent performance across the board: the

S22 is the KTM’s OE fitment (albeit with a

minor change to the rear carcass to increase

the contact patch to suit its needs, according

to Bridgestone/KTM test rider, Jeremy

McWilliams), and it’s perfect for that job,

being dependable in all regards.

Both riders took some time to deliberate

their final scores on the Metzelers and

Michelins: the Metzelers, as the first tyre

tested, set the bar high, and only the

Michelins managed to offer the same

confidence-inspiring, dynamic feel. Where

the other tyres met your abilities and

expectations, these two encouraged you to

push a little harder, and enjoy the bike more

in the process. Both got up to operating

temperature quickly, as well as feeling safe for

the first mile or two while they scrubbed in.

But it was the Michelin’s slight advantage in

feel, and even lighter steering that lent them a

narrow advantage over the Metzelers to win.

THE RESULTS:

1st: Michelin Power 5 88/100
2nd: Metzeler Sportec M9RR 87/100
Joint 3rd : Bridgestone S22 81/100
Joint 3rd : Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 81/100
5th: Dunlop SportSmart 3 78/100
6th: Continental SportAttack 4 74/100

70 PERFORMANCEBIKES.CO.UK | JUNE 2021

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RESTORERS AND MODIFIERS OF
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As featured in the June edition of Practical Sportsbike











RESTORING

Foxeyes they call them... have you ever
seen a fox with eyes like that? Ridiculous

EXPERT Ledar pipe on it for those old PB readers who “Our workshop manager
VIEW remember Leon Moss. Wayne also loaned it Wayne raced a 3HE. He
to Nigel Piercy to compete in the Manx on a was rarely out of the top
Saul Towers is sales manager at couple of times. So the upshot of all that is five and the bike never
Flitwick Motorcycles (01525 712197, that the FZR600 is pretty bombproof. The let him down. The cable
flitwickmotorcycles.co.uk) where they’ve FZR600R that followed it never gave a lot of clutch could get a bit
had plenty of experience of the FZR600, aggravation either. tetchy, but that was it”
both road bikes and race.
“When it comes to restoring one today, and rebuilding. You’re looking at around
“Of course the FZR600 was a club much is made of the patchy build quality of £50 per carb for genuine O-rings and float
race staple and our workshop manager the time, and the impact that has on bikes needles. You can go aftermarket but that
Wayne raced a 3HE in 1990 and 1991. that are turning up to restore now. To be fair often proves a false economy. Look out for
He was rarely out of the top five and the it wasn’t just Yamaha – Suzuki and Kawasaki fuel tap diaphragms too.
bike never let him down. The cable clutch could be sketchy too. The Sumitomo calipers,
could get a bit tetchy towards the second both 1989 two-piston and the 1990-on “You might also find replacement
race of the day but that was about it. four-piston type – corrode internally so the headers for the 3HE tricky although there
The engine was tuned by Flitwick owner, pistons seize. Even once rebuilt they require are aftermarket options for the 4JH.
our guv’nor Steve Linsdell, and it had a regular preventative maintenance. Lots
of owners opt for the celebrated blue dot “The steel frames and swingarms are
The two-tier tail light on the 4JH is well cool calipers which are a bolt-on replacement for robust but be wary of corrosion, especially
the four-piston calipers. Where there have in areas where it’s hard to see. Chassis
been caliper issues, warped discs almost bearings are no problem but some are
always follow, so look out for them. specific and expensive; for example the
shock/rocker spherical bearing is £63.14.
“New bodywork will predictably be an issue
although there were so many colour options “Finally, remember the 3HE has an
you might get lucky somewhere. 18-inch rear wheel, 130/70 from 1989 to
1991, and 140/60 from 1992-on. Decent
“It can be the little things that hold up tyres are getting tricky to come by; the
restos of bikes of this era. Rubber parts like best pairing today is a Bridgestone BT50
preformed fuel lines are getting thin on the rear with a BT16 or S21 front.”
ground, so clever home-brewed solutions
such as linking straight sections with bent-up
metal piping might need to be deployed.

“Carbs that have stood will need cleaning

78 Practical Sportsbikes

PRICES DO YOU LOVE
JAPANESE
Immaculate £2000-£2500 MOTORCYCLES?
Rider £1200-£1900
Project £400-£1100 The

MODEL GUIDE Model differences VJMC

YAMAHA FZR600 3HE (4JH) 1989 FZR600 3HE is the club
Two-piston front brake calipers, for you!!
Capacity 599cc twin headlights.
Bore x stroke 59 x 54.8mm (62 x 49.6mm) 1990 Four-piston brake calipers. Only
Power 91bhp@10,500rpm (98.6bhp@11,500rpm) 1991 Single headlight.
Torque 48.4lb.ft@8500rpm (48lb.ft@9500rpm) 1992 Rear rim increase from 3.5 £30Club
Dry weight 193kg (195kg) to 4-inch, 140/70 18 tyre replaces
Front brakes 2 x 298mm discs, 2-piston calipers (4-piston calipers) 130/70 18. Deltabox style steel Benefits: per annum!
swingarm.
COLOURS 1994 FZR600R 4JH Local and
All-new model. National Shows
1989 White, silver/green, red/white Local section meets
1990White, black, silver/grey, red/white Yes. 3HE in red, white and blue is the and ride outs
1991White, blue-ish black, blue/red/white one to have. Looks great, and goes Bi-monthly magazine
1992White, blue-ish black, blue-ish black like a good ‘un Machine dating service
metallic, blue/red/white, black/silver/grey, Discounted bike parts*
white/red/grey Technical Data
1993White, blue-ish black metallic, blue/ Discounted Insurance*
red/white, white/red/grey, purple Free lunchtime parades
1994 FZR600RViolet metallic, yellow/ with the CRMC
orange, white, black
1995Violet metallic, yellow/orange, white, And much, much more...
black, black metallic, magenta
*applies to certain companies

In the csohmedmauntderattotshuepsehrobwikse-
from

www.vjmc.com

What’s the Fuel should be in
the tank, not in
problem?Baniksewneortsrtuontnhinegtoriugghhte?sOtuqrueexsptieorntss have the the crankcases.
That’s no good
for anyone

Suzuki GSXR-1000 K1 Gary Hurd says: We’ve seen this Yamaha R6
problem on a number of early
What’s your position? GSX-R1000s and nine times out of ten – or R6 had its fill
more – it is down to the throttle position
So 20 years after the fact I finally sensor (TPS). Over time the resistance I’d had a problem with my Yamaha
managed to get my dream bike – a values in the unit wander off and the ECU YZF-R6 5EB’s engine filling up with
Suzuki GSX-R1000 K1. Thing is it wants to gets all confused about what the actual fuel. I thought I’d sorted the problem with
stall at the most inconvenient moments like throttle position is. Replacement of the TPS different carbs and fuel tap. I did about
at traffic lights and roundabouts. I’ve almost is the only answer. You will find it adjacent 300 miles in the course of five days but
dropped it on more than one occasion when to the injector for number four cylinder. then the engine filled with petrol for a
it’s caught me unaware. The bike has done second time, fuel and oil pouring out the
only 23,000 miles and, I was assured, has top of the carbs.
been religiously maintained. What do you I got roughly 1.5 litres out from the
think I’m looking at here? Fuel injection? dipstick hole before I even undid the
Electrics? drainage bolt.
James Kimber Ashley Dicker, PS Facebook Group

Once resistance values Saul Towers says: The fact that two
have wandered off, they sets of carburettors have now done
very rarely return this is odd but not unheard of. You can take
the fuel tap out of the equation as these
are always ‘on’ when it comes to this model
and are only there to make life easier
taking the tank off and on. You’re going
to have to give the carbs a good strip and
look over, with particular attention to the
float needle valves.
They’re plainly not doing their job
of stopping the flow of fuel when the
carburettor float bowls are full and the
petrol is draining into the crankcases. If the
fuel filter is not doing its job or has been
replaced with a poor quality aftermarket
item, dirt or debris from the tank can
get into the carbs and compromise the
operation of the float needle valves.

Aprilia RSV1000R warning and red triangle Griff Woolley says: On Keep on top of electrical system maintenance
sometimes lights up and the the left of the rear cylinder if you’re running an Aprilia RSV. Not difficult
Mille muddle temperature gauge displays resides a green block
135°C and flashes. If I stop connector and it will be poor
I am delighted with my and switch the ignition off connections within it causing
recently acquired 2005 and on again it goes away. the false warnings. Open
Aprilia RSV1000R. At less up the block and give it a
than two grand it’s a lot of There’s no way the bike is thorough blasting with switch
bike for not a lot of money. overheating when it happens. cleaner. And tighten the
Is there a faulty sensor or female connectors slightly
However it has developed two somewhere? Or has the with the blade of a small
an odd problem which I’m wiring gone bad? screwdriver.
beginning to fear may be the Harry Jones
Italian electrical gremlins
of popular lore. The EFI

OUR EXPERTS Alan Seeley Gary Hurd Saul Towers Ferret Griff Wooley
Still grafting away All hail Nu G, Saul at Yamaha Ferret of Ferret’s Griff is the head
putting his CD and formerly known specialists Custom man at Priller
record collection in as Medium G. You Flitwick Electrickery specialists AP
alphabetical order. will notice he is Motorcycles (07765 832420) Workshops
He’s now on W, so proffering advice (01525 712197) is a man for whom in Tamworth
Wizzard, Wham! , Wu-Tang Clan on fuel injection on this page. He is our go-to Yam man. He’s the the tubed lightning holds no fears. (01827 285500). Catch him
and Wet Wet Wet all occupy their refuses to recognise carburettors go-to Yam man at Flitwick too. VIR is as simple as ABC for this before the coarse fishing
correct places. Well done Alan. these days. He’s changed. So that should tell you enough. redoubtable fellow. season opens on 16 June.

80 Practical Sportsbikes If you’ve got a problem with your bike, write to What’s the Problem? Practical Sportsbikes, Bauer Media, Media House, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA,
or email [email protected]. If you have any relevant pictures, be sure to send/attach those too to assist our boffins in their enquiries

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

unable to find a proper email address for
them. There seems to be no way to just ask
for general advice. Hence I’ve turned to you
guys. If you can’t help maybe you can point
me in the direction of someone who can.
Tim Drake

Honda CB250N Alan Seeley says: Take the following to your Suzuki SV650
local Post Office and you’ll be off the hook
Tax avoidance for vehicle excise duty and the MoT, and here Good spots
we quote the DVLA: “the logbook (V5C) in
My Honda CB250N is now 40 years old your name; your vehicle tax reminder letter I’m building something of fun runabout
having been registered on 1 August 1980 (V11), if you have one; an MoT certificate out of an accident-damaged 1999 Suzuki
and I believe it qualifies for exemption from that’s valid when the tax starts, or evidence SV650 naked, mostly as a way of testing and
road tax and the MoT test. Can you tell me if your vehicle’s exempt from an MoT [form extending my bike building skills. The stock
the procedure for registering my motorcycle V112, available on the DVLA website].” The single headlight was a victim of the crash that
as a historic vehicle? Internet research has Post Office will then send your logbook to made the bike such an eBay bargain so I’m
left me rather more confused than before. the DVLA who will send you an updated going to fit a pair of those ‘dominator’ style
I was going to email DVLA but have been logbook. Any refund due will be made to you. H4 spotlight units. Style police look away
now. Something in the back of my mind tells
Honda CB400 eligibility rolling in line with the historic tax me I need to do something more than just
class on 1 January every year. The loophole piggyback the twin H4 bulbs to the existing
Better in black-and-white has now been closed so that any vehicle wiring. I’m thinking relays might be involved but
registered after 1 January 1980 will not be have no clue how to wire them in.
I spend more time admiring the traditional able to display a black-and-white numberplate. Adam Brown
lines of my 1978 Honda CB400 Four However as your Honda predates that you can,
than I do actually riding it. I have long thought if you must, apply to the DVLA to have your Ferret says: You’ll need two 4-pin
that the bike would suit a black-and-white bike registered in the historic tax class, and ‘normally open’ relays, two H4 headlamp
numberplate like most bikes in the UK had up then display a black-and-white numberplate. sockets and one inline splashproof blade fuse
until the early 1970s. However I can’t seem holder. Connect relays as follows: original high
to find a definitive answer on the cut-off date Number’s up for post-1980 black and white plates beam bulb feed to pin 86 on one relay; original
for manufacture of bikes on which they would low beam bulb feed to 86 on the other relay;
be legal. I have been told that the black-and- both relay pin 85s should be earthed. Next
white plate rule runs in tandem with the connect terminal 87 of the low beam relay
40-year historic tax class but would prefer to to the low beam filaments of both bulbs, and
have a definitive answer before changing the 87 of the high beam relay to the high beam
numberplate. filaments of both bulbs.
Mike Gruber Now connect both relay terminal 30s to the
positive battery terminal, incorporating a 20
Alan Seeley says: It was the case amp fuse. Use 16.5 amp thinwall cable for the
that only bikes registered before 1 ‘switching’ (86 and 85) part of the circuit and
January 1973 could display a black-and- 25 amp thinwall for the ‘load’ (30 and 87)
white numberplates. Then the authorities Best way is to make a separate headlamp
inadvertently introduced a loophole with the harness and use the battery negative to earth
introduction of the rolling 40-year historic tax everything. Done this way, the light emitted will
class in 2015 which did allow that vehicles be bright white, not dim yellow.
eligible to be registered in that class could
display a black-and-white numberplate, that

Dragging clutch is a drag. But easy enough to fix Kawasaki ZX7-R a different oil help? I’m currently using a 10-
40w semi synth from Halfords own range.
No release The clutch plates (plain and friction) are
OEM and have done about 1500 miles.
I’m hoping you can help me with a problem John Edwards
I’m having with the clutch on my 2000
Kawasaki ZX-7R. The bike has done 21,000 Gary Hurd says: You’re going to have
miles and I only use it once or twice a month to get those plates out and give them a
these days when the weather is fine. The clutch good clean to get rid of any contamination
fails to disengage until I’ve warmed the engine and corrosion. You don’t say if the Halfords
up for five minutes or so, and even then the oil you are using is bike specific or not. If it
first couple of attempts to engage first gear is, then it shouldn’t be the issue. Look for
result in the bike lurching forwards and stalling. JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards
Between rides I’ve thought of applying some Organization) MA or MA2 on the lable. This
pressure to the clutch lever via a zip tie but means it’s for use in a motorcycle engine
don’t think this would do the clutch springs or with a wet clutch sharing oil with the engine.
master/slave cylinder seals any favours. Would

Practical Sportsbikes 81

The three bottle tops
glued to Gary’s sleeve have
just been ultrasonically
cleaned. Shiny, eh?

HOW TO

USE AN ULTRASONIC CLEANER

Good ones are expensive, but then so are most things that are actually any good.
This is the proper procedure for cleaning carburettors. Pay attention, now

Words: Jim Moore Pictures: Jason Critchell

C leanliness is next to godliness, castings and delicate inner workings, like At £2359.20 it’s far from cheap but a
especially in the workshop. When it carbs, ultrasonic cleaning is the answer. machine like this is a long-term investment
comes to removing filth, baked on that, unlike a budget alternative, will give
oil residue, and all manner of hard to Not all ultrasonic cleaners are equal, reliable service for years, even decades. The
shift crud, an ultrasonic cleaner is the absolute however. The small, often budget, units you cost of having carbs professionally cleaned
go-to device. can pick up from most hardware/discount isn’t cheap (can be up to £250 for a bank of
stores are fine for cleaning jewellery or four) so if you and, say, three other mates chip
This method of cleaning uses high frequency carb jets at a push, but they’re no good for in to buy one between you that’s a far more
pressure waves to create cavitation (bubbles) tackling a bank of carburettors. palatable £590 each.
which, combined with the correct chemical
agents, agitate dirt off the component you’re For that, you need something more Over a decade that’s less than 60 quid a year.
trying to clean. substantial, like the Hilsonic HS2800 You can easily blow that on cheaper cleaners
we have here. With a 26-litre tank, and that won’t be able to tackle big parts or do the
The distinct advantage of ultrasonic its ultrasonic waves delivered using a job as well.
cleaning, other than it saving hours of tedious frequency sweep method unique to Hilsonic
scrubbing, is that it gets into the smallest to prevent patchy cleaning (unlike some For a serial restorer or tinkerer, a bench-
cavities and crevices – areas you can’t reach budget cleaners which don’t have it) it’s sized ultrasonic tank could save you hundreds
with conventional cleaning methods so, for large and consistent enough to tackle in the long run and provide the satisfaction of
complicated components with intricate almost any motorcycle-related component. doing the job yourself. Here’s how.

82 Practical Sportsbikes

01 HOW TO

I’m just going to run a bath 02

Before we can clean anything, we need to get the Make sure it’s not too hot
ultrasonic bath set up. First job is to fill the tank
with warm water – at least two thirds full so that Plug the bath into the mains and press the
the temperature sensor (small washer on the ‘on’ button. Now that the temp sensor is
back left side of the tank) is submerged. under water, the heater button on the front
of the tank will glow red. Switch it to ‘on’, set
03 04 the temperature dial to 50°C (for carbs),
cover the tank with the lid and wait for the
water to reach the desired temperature. On
this Hilsonic unit, a light will indicate when
it’s up to temp.

05

Can you put some bubble bath in? Test the water first One at a time, not all together

Hold on G, don’t be too hasty. Before the While the tank is warming, we can see if the Now we can sort the parts we want to clean.
lid goes on, we need to add the Hilsonic ultrasonic action is working. Take a strip of We’ve got a manky bank of carbs off a
carb cleaner. More powerful, caustic-based aluminium kitchen foil and hold it half-in the Yamaha 600 Diversion. Dumping the whole
agents can be used on engine parts). solution. Pull it out after a few minutes and lot in the tank isn’t the way. Be methodical
Anywhere between a 3-10% mix works, hold it to the light. You should see several – remove one carb at a time from the bank,
depending on how filthy the parts are. We’re holes punched through the foil by the tank’s then strip it down to its component parts.
going for a 5% mix, with this bath’s capacity cavitation action.
of 26 litres two-thirds full (17.3 litres) we
need to add 0.86 litres of solution.

06 07 08

Don’t lose things down the plughole Lower it all gently Use things from the kitchen

Lay each part out on a clean surface as you Clean the carb body and float bowl before Smaller components such as jets and
dismantle the carb – small jiffy bags or placing them into the bath. You don’t have needles can be kept together by placing
plastic cups are handy for keeping all the to do this, but it will prevent the solution them in an old sieve, tea strainer, or metal
jets, washers, springs and needles together from getting too dirty and therefore lasting container. Pyrex jugs can also be used – the
in place, as they’re easily lost. longer – saving you money. The ultrasonic process will work through the glass, but it
process will remove the gunk that you can’t must be tempered glass. Ordinary glass is
get to. Place the carb body, float bowls and a big no-no.
major components into the wire tray, then
lower it into the tank.

Practical Sportsbikes 83

HOW TO 10 11

09

Clean the bath out after you Keep an eye on it all Rinse off afterwards

You’ll notice the ultrasonic action working It’s important to keep checking what you’re If you’re cleaning aluminium castings, like
almost straight away as specs of dirt rise to cleaning. Our Hilsonic bath has a built-in the carb bodies, remember to rinse them
the surface of the solution. If they’re really timer which we set to five-minute intervals. off after they’ve been in cleaning solution
dirty you’ll see a cloud forming around the If left in the solution for too long some to prevent the chemicals from causing any
component, then after 10 minutes or so the aluminium parts will start to deteriorate, so lasting damage. The opposite applies in
liquid will turn dark in colour from the filth checking progress periodically is essential. the case of mild steel – leaving them to dry
that’s been blasted off. Even if the solution naturally with allow the solution’s residue
looks really dirty the ultrasonic action and to act as a corrosion inhibitor; rinsing them
chemicals will still work with water could lead to oxidisation.

ULTRASONIC TOP-TIPS

DO… 5. Dispose of dirty cleaning solution in the 4. Lob a whole bank of carbs into the tank and
appropriate manner. Don’t just tip it all down expect great results. They should be stripped
1. Wear gloves (yellow card for Gary) and eye the drain. down to their component parts and added to
protection when placing or retrieving parts the tank one carb at a time.
from the tank – the cleaning solution won’t do DON’T…
your skin or mince pies any favours. 5. Put anything glass into the tank that’s not
1. Leave components in the tank for long tempered – Pyrex beakers are fine if you’re
2. Set the tank to the appropriate temp for periods of time, especially at a high temp. using them to hold small parts; ordinary glass
the parts you’re cleaning. Best results with This could risk damage. Set the timer and is not.
aluminium are achieved at 45-50°C. You can inspect aluminium parts every five minutes.
go up to 80°C if you’re trying to shift carbon 6. Rinse off mild steel parts after they’ve
deposits off a piston, for example. 2. Mix metals, if at all possible. If, for example, been in the tank – you’ll risk starting the
you left a carb in there with alloy and brass process of oxidisation and corrosion.
3. Check the cleaning fluid bottle for how components for a long time, or at too high a
much to use. Up to a 10% solution/water mix temp, the mix of metals can create a reaction 7. Overcrowd the tank with parts unless
is acceptable. that will remove the top layer of brass, hold you’re prepared for the cleaning process to
it in solution and then deposit it on the other take much longer. If you are expecting it to
4. Rinse aluminium parts after they’ve been metal. take a while, remember to keep checking
in the tank and, if poss, spray with WD-40 or progress periodically.
similar once dry in order to remove all trace of 3. Use caustic cleaner with aluminium – it’s
cleaning fluid residue. way too powerful. Steel/iron only. THANKS TO
Hilsonic: hilsonic.co.uk, 0151 639 6020

This is how it should all look when the job is
done. Easy, effective, non-aggressive. Aye

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Kevin Thomas

XT600/XTZ660

Bought new in 1989, Kevin’s 3AJ XT now has 189,000 miles on it – hard, hard miles

Words: Alan Seeley says Kev. “Then I put 118,000 miles on it off my spare clutch plates left a lasting
over the following two years travelling all memory,” says Kev.
F or as long as he’s been riding, around Europe.”
KevinThomas has been up for Further development work on the XTZ
going the distance. Back in 1984, The adventure and travel bugs had bitten followed and Kev planned to race the Dakar
just six weeks after his hard. “In 1992 I decided to take part in my in December 1994 but was hit from behind
seventeenth birthday and having first desert rally in Morocco,” says Kev. “The by a car on a roundabout a month before
not long passed his test, Kev rode to Le XT needed a lot of money spending to get it the event. “It would be three years before I
Mans on hisYamaha RD250LC and saw up to competition spec so I bought one of was fit enough to race again,” he says.
Team Bike take second place in the 24 the new XTZ660 3YF models in Faraway
Hours. Since then the adventures have got Blue. I fitted suitable tyres and navigation Kev further developed the bike to race in
bigger and the distances longer.TheYamaha gear, and had a great time in Morocco, the 1998Atlas rally in Morocco, including
XT600 3AJTénéré he bought new in 1989 placing well.” the fitment of KTM rally fuel tanks, seat and
has now covered 189,000 miles, although radiators. “Although not fully fit, I finished
the tale Kev has to relate is a history of how On his return, Kev found that the XTZ and this allowed me to get an entry for the
two bikes became one. had been using oil because of dust and dirt 2000 Dakar to Cairo rally,” says Kev.With
bypassing the air filter. He fitted a +1mm the XTZ now having covered around
“I had crossed the Sahara the long way performance piston (101mm) into the 100,000 miles, Kev figured that the engine
fromAlgeria to Niger following the rebored barrel.A large flange-fitted K&N deserved some attention ahead of the
traditional Dakar route on a humble Honda filter was purchased to avoid any repeat of Dakar. “The engine had a full rebuild with
XL185, and was impressed by the the problem.With that and a handful of the help of Martin Sweet at Slipstream
performance and classic Dakar looks of the suspension mods done, Kev entered the Tuning,” says Kev. “It got a 102mm Omega
XTs I saw along the way, so I bought one,” 1992 Egyptian rally. “A night alone in the piston, taking capacity up to 686cc – the
desert waiting for the support truck to drop ‘690’ conversion as everyone calls it – plus a

Almost above the
tree-line, but not quite

You don’t want to lose a front
wheel spindle nut out here

86 Practical Sportsbikes

THE REAL LONG-TERMERS

“AN EVENTFUL DAKAR
CULMINATED IN ME

RETIRING WITH DOUBLE
PNEUMONIA AT THE
HALFWAY STAGE”

When you willingly put yourself miles and days from assistance you have to know your bike inside out. Like Kevin

new conrod and big-end. I fitted a a new old stock fuel tank from France, still Trick: fuel pump mounted on lhs for easy access
Megacycle camshaft and the head was in its box and costing just £50, and all new Extra 4.5 litre fuel capacity from rear pannier tank
gas-flowed and given new valves.The engine plastics,” he says. “I fitted Black Excel
was treated to all new bearings and four Takasago rims, stainless spokes and Renthal
gear pinions were replaced as was the Dakar handlebars. I fit Symtec heated grip
camchain. Otherwise it was in great elements with Pro Grip foam grips to all my
condition.A new starter clutch was fitted as bikes, and I also gave it a suede seat with
a precaution and all engine components firmer foam, and oversize footrests.”
were superfinished.”
Although the restored 3AJ looked the
Kev’s competition comeback ended in part, Kev soon found it wanting. “It felt
disappointment, however: “An eventful rather gutless and poorly suspended
Dakar culminated in me retiring with compared to my rally bike.The engine
double pneumonia at the halfway stage.” nipped up on the way back from Morocco in
2008, so I looked to see if it was feasible to
The XTZ would be mothballed at the end fit the later five-valve, liquid-cooled 690cc
of 1999. “Marriage, fatherhood and divorce tuned engine from my Dakar bike in place
followed, and I had by then started to build of the 595cc four-valve air-cooled motor,”
my dream desert racer, again based on an says Kev.
XTZ660,” says Kev.
As it transpired, the transplant was a goer.
However it had long been a matter of “The engine mounts are identical but
regret for Kev that he had sold his first finding homes for the extras made necessary
XT600 3AJTénéré. In 2004 an eBay project by liquid-cooling – radiators, hoses,
came his way and he set to work. thermostat and fan – proved the biggest

“It underwent a full restoration including

Practical Sportsbikes 87

This is what people really
mean when they use the

term ‘Open Road’

“I WORK HARD FOR 35 TO 40 WEEKS OF my Dakar bike which included a three-litre
THE YEAR AND USE THE REST OF THE drinking water tank, and added a bolt-on
extension to the luggage rack that allowed
TIME TO CLEAR OFF ON THE BIKE” me to carry spare tyres.

challenge,” says Kev.A long weekend accurate wheel alignment than the XT600 The following year, 2014, Kev spent six
all-nighter in the workshop had everything one,” says Kev. weeks travelling around eastern Europe
in place. Kev also took the opportunity to visiting countries that he had previously
improve the suspension with 45mm USD The bike remained in this guise until 2013 visited before the fall of the BerlinWall,
forks from a Gas-Gas 450 Enduro, and a racking up a further 85,000 miles – taking reaching as far as Moldova and Ukraine,
Wilbers multi-adjustable shock. the total for the engine past 185,000 miles. Turkey and Greece.
“I did multiple off-road Morocco trips, an
Kev was delighted with the conversion. 81-day solo ride to westernAfrica retracing The last few years have seen Kev make
“The bike worked really well; power some of my Dakar stages, and a ride out numerous Morocco trips with partnerAnna
increased from 32bhp to 52bhp with a top into the Mauritanian deserts.A visa issue and friends, ranging in duration from 10
speed of 110 mph and a cruising speed of meant a Christmas eve 2013 was spent in a days or three weeks. He also organises
90mph – a 20mph improvement over police station in Rosso while a complete desert trips to take groups of fellow
original,” he says. Despite finding the stranger took my passport to Nouakchott in adventure riders down to Morocco.
suspension to be much improved, high- Mauritania to get a special visa,” says Kev. “Basically the bike is always ready to go,”
speed stability was not great. So, over the says Kev. “Whether that’s Europe orAfrica.”
following year Kev braced the frame. In preparation for the Mauritanian trip,
“Yamaha claim the XTZ660 3YF frame is Kev made I number of further modifications A few years back Kev adapted a 1998
apparently four times more rigid than the to his 3AJ. “I fitted a Baja Designs 4.5-litre XT600E forAnna, who at 5ft 4in finds the
3AJ, so I followed the example of that to rear fuel tank intended for a KTM Enduro standard bike too tall.That led to countless
brace the frame behind and above the behind the left sidepanel.This gave me a requests for Kev to adapt further bikes and
engine and around the swingarm pivot. I total fuel capacity of 28 litres – good for his skills and passion have now led to a
also adapted a XTZ660 swingarm to fit between 350 and 450 miles dependant on business –Woodcutter Bikes (07851
because it is 20mm longer and offers more speed and depth of sand. It’s unbelievably 764384, woodcutterbikes.co.uk).Through
frugal. I also fitted the old bashplate from the business, Kev offers overland and rally
Kevin (in the red coat) with a bike prep, performance mods, restorations,
merry band of desert-sledders luggage systems and one-off builds.
somewhere sandy. Looks like a
bit of weather comin’ in there We all talk about the work/life balance.At
the age of 54 Kev, a cabinetmaker by trade,
has it sussed, and has done for some time. “I
work hard for 35 to 40 weeks of the year
and use the rest of the time to clear off on
the bike,” he says.

Of course the last year has put paid
everyone’s travel ambitions. Kev used some
of the enforced downtime to show his XT/
XTZ hybrid some love.

“The bike had reached 189,000 miles and
with no riding available last year, a few
niggling faults, and a noisy fifth gear, I

88 Practical Sportsbikes

THE REAL LONG-TERMERS

Still one of the best
start points for a

transglobal workhorse

Get used to (and like) the brushed-ally fascia if LIVING WITH AN Designs tank, meaning all of the stuff that
you’re going to do nearly 200,000 miles behind it XT600/XTZ600 usually tries to escape from bags on the
bike is safely tucked away making more
decided to give the bike a refresh,” he says. There’s no harsher environment for any room for the minimal luggage I prefer to
“The only engine parts replaced were valve bike than the desert. Here’s how Kev helps use.
stem seals, the camchain, fifth gear pinions, the Yamaha cope.
gearbox bearings, the oil pump and two “The bike is maintained with genuine
clutch plates.The Omega piston fitted in “The airbox is above the engine meaning Yamaha parts except for things like brake
1999 was like new but the bore was worn, the bike can cross deep rivers and the oiled pads and chain and sprockets. Some
so I had another barrel rebored to suit.” foam filter remains clean even in a bearings are only available from Yamaha. I
three-day sandstorm in the western Sahara. only use DID ZVMX chains; they can be run
The chassis received some attention too. completely dry in the desert for 15,000
Kev had the frame freshly powdercoated “There’s a large tool box and plenty of miles and then I just throw them away.
and decided to replace the upside-down places to stash spares for big journeys. The
forks for a front-end with a more traditional battery box has been modified to take a “Motul 5100 semi-synthetic oil works
look while maintaining modern suspension more modern smaller battery to allow a well for reducing engine wear and gives
performance. “They were still providing a spare regulator/rectifier to sit below it and improved gearbox action. I use 10/40 for
magic carpet ride, but I wanted to have a spare CDI above. The tailpiece contains Europe and 10/50 for hot climates.
traditional yellow fork gaiters on the bike. I spare clutch plates, fuel pump, coil, gear, Singles with steel cylinder liners do not
got hold of a set of very tired 45mm clutch and brake levers. An inner tube lives like fully synthetic, they burn it.”
Marzocchi Magnum right-way up forks, behind the left side panel atop the Baja
again from a Gas-Gas, and rebuilt them with
Cagiva Elefant lowers. Of all the off-road THE MAIN MODS forks. Look the part and around the spoke holes.
brands, Gas-Gas have the most compliant allow Kev to fit all-important 8. Renthal Dakar
suspension. I spaced the front caliper to take 1. XTZ660 engine. Bored-out yellow gaiters while giving handlebars. Fitted with
the XT600 wheel with speedo drive and to 686cc and tuned with modern cartridge Symtec heated grip
early R1 floating disc. Now I have the Megacycle cam, and performance. elements in Pro Grip
original looks but with cartridge fork gasflowed. Five-valve 6.Wilbers shock. Many hard foam grips.
performance,” says Kev. “TheWilbers shock liquid-cooled engine adds a miles covered with only one 9. Suede seat with firmer
was serviced but needed only fresh oil. I also useful 20mph to cruising oil refresh required so far. foam. Essential for
fitted new chassis bearings throughout, and speed over four-valve, 7. ExcelTakasago rims.The comfort.
made a new wiring loom. air-cooled 595cc engine. DID rims used by Yamaha 10. Oversize footrests.
2. Baja Designs 4.5-litre have a tendency to rot An off-road favourite.
“People ask me why I go to all this auxiliary fuel tank. Intended
trouble,” he says. “For me the 3AJ was the for a KTM but now fitted These things are tough. Make no mistake
last of the true rally replicas fromYamaha. I behind the left side-panel of
like the way it looks, it’s frugal with fuel Kev’s 3AJ. An RG250 tap
which is great for distance riding in deserts. brings it into play.
It has twin head and tail lights so if you lose 3. Fuel pump. Moved from its
one bulb at either end you still have the inaccessible position behind
other.And it has a great riding position.” the engine to the side where
it can be got at if it plays up.
However thing that stands testament most 4. Frame. Braced in the
are the miles covered and adventures he has manner of a 3YF around the
enjoyed with his XT/XTZ. “I’m like a caged engine and the swingarm it
beast,” he says. “I just can’t wait to get out borrows from the newer bike.
there again.” 5. Marzocchi Magnum rwu

Practical Sportsbikes 89



THE PLAN

To give a ’90s icon, the
ZX-7R, the power and
handling to trounce a
new Kawasaki H2, with
a GSX-R1000 motor...
and a turbo.

That’s right... sit and think about
it... do nothing... have a cup of tea

PART

23

PROJECT That tyre will soon be well past its use-by date if
the current rate of progress obtains. Good grief
ZX990 TURBO

EXCUSES

The dog ate his top yoke, he left the shock on the bus...
and we’re still only on Part 23. God, give us strength

Words: Chris Newbigging Pics: Simon Lee

elegating bits of this project stalled a project like this. I became a dad to attended to – anyone who’s built a special
has come back to bite me nipper #2 last year, and my whole will attest that you need to be on the case,
on the arse, a bit. Some household were floored by the Corona- because one task completed usually means
jobs have had to go to pros: thing for a while too.All good now, three or four other little ones are created.
I can’t do the CAD-CAM thankfully. Safe to say, my book of excuses That’s where I’m at now.
stuff, and my welding is less Racefit, more has been thick.
pigeon-sh*t. On top of that, it spent First priority is to get it on its own wheels
lockdown time with other members of staff Said book is now on the fire, and I’ve again. Said wheels (from the GSX-R donor
– notably Gary ‘Flamin’ G’ Hurd and taken the ZX990 back to get a grip on it. also) were powdercoated last month by
Simon ‘I was an engineer you know’ Lee. The problem is, that delegation has a price. True Fusion, and I popped a pair of Pirelli
Grand job they did too, they kept the While everyone (enthusiastic mate or Diablo Rosso Corsa IIs on them. I intend to
wheels turning when I couldn’t: 2020’s professional alike) has done everything use the bike on track too – they should be
Covid-related obstacles could have easily asked of them, the critical detail in up to that as well as road-based outings of
between the major tasks hasn’t been utter terror.

91 Practical Sportsbikes

Joy with the rear
spindle? No. Wrong

bearings. Yep

It’s never easy building a special. But does It’s easy to poke fun at people making little
it really have to be this hard? progress, so that’s what we’ll continue to do

Lack of a proper crimping tool prevented new injectors from finding a Wheel bearings were next. Fronts were no
home. Imagine that? What’s next? “We didn’t have a 10mm spanner.” grief, but I overlooked the work done to fit
the Suzuki wheel in the Kawasaki arm,
92 Practical Sportsbikes with its smaller-diameter wheel spindle.As
well as the spacing/alignment mods
completed by Etto Motorcycles, the
bearings were changed from stock sizes to
an alternative with an outer diameter to
suit the Suzuki wheel, and an inner to
match the ZX-7R spindle. I ordered a set of
stock bearings, put them in the fridge
overnight to ease fitting, only to discover
they were useless when the moment came.
Thankfully the set fitted by Etto were still
in the parts box, so I matched them up and
slotted new ones in. But it’s another delay.

Next was the front end: it fitted before, so
it should fit again. But once more,
something about the new bearings we’ve
fitted, versus the old ones left in place for
the dry-build, has left us with a few mm of
slack to take up, so that we can preload and
tension the bearings correctly. It’s only a
simple matter for a machinist (we’ve sent
the dimensions to Deftcad, who made the
new top yoke – he’ll knock it out quickly),
but it’s another week or so before we can
tick ‘front end’ off the list.

On to the motor: I picked up a set of a
blanking plates for the exhaust clean-air
circuit. Easy enough: reuse the seals from
the redundant reed-valves, bolt them on.
Buoyed by a win, I attached the throttle
bodies.Another win.Yes! Then to fit the
fuel rail, with the larger capacity
injectors… the winning streak ends.The
new ones aren’t a direct replacement – the
locating lugs are different, so the fuel rail
needs the notches carefully opened out.
Taking a file to a critical (expensive) part is
nerve-wracking, but it got done (by The
Fengineer as it goes – on hand with a
camera for some workshop time).

That issue solved, we discovered another.
Holeshot’s package of goodies was only
opened for the big bits we needed to offer
up in the dry-build, I’d never looked
properly at the many grip-seal bags filled
with supplementary bits. One of them
contained four connector and terminals, to
suit the new injectors. Naturally, I don’t
have a crimping tool to suit, so slotting the
fuel rail in will have to wait until the OE
connectors can be swapped over.

wlSootverekply-td,obosuwntnungyeoebkdeesarimsinogrse PROJECT ZX990 Turbo

At least that gaffer tape It will be lovely, when it’s done. But what
was a good fit a big ask that’s turning out to be...

“THE FRONTEND
FITTED BEFORE, SO IT
SHOULD FITAGAIN.
BUTONCE MORE,
SOMETHING ABOUT
THE NEWBEARINGS
HAS LEFTUSWITH A
FEWMM OF SLACK”

I fitted the exhaust studs too, so I could
fit the turbo manifold, too.Those went in,
but for reasons unknown it doesn’t quite
line-up with the cylinder head, when it did
before.We had to replace the head during
the engine build – production variances
would appear to have affected us. My
Dremel (a cheap snide, actually) packed up
a while ago, and I’ve yet to get a new one.
So I couldn’t make the minor alterations
required to bolt that up. So that went back
in the box, too.

At least the rear linkage went back
together OK, and the original shock is now
loosely bolted in to prop it up.Talking of
which, the bike has always been low at the
rear – I’d presumed it was a combination of
the shock being knackered, and set close to
minimum preload. But when I actually
looked at it, I realised it’s not actually a
ZX-7R shock: which explains that. No
matter – a marathon mail-order session is
due, with shock and fork internals high on
the list, so it’ll get something nice and
aftermarket, built for the bike.

Anyhow, it’s rolling.The subframe is back
on, and it can grow from here – even if bits
have to come back out temporarily.We
never sorted a rear caliper fitment, for
example (neither ZX-7R or GSX-R will fit
at present), so Simon has offered his
services to mod the bracket to take
whatever caliper I choose.

I’ll order some oversize discs (the K3 got
300mm discs to reduce unsprung mass:
K1-spec 320mm go straight on), some
upgraded calipers, plus spacers, and longer
bolts to move them out on the mounts.Yet
more stuff, overlooked while making the
big chunks of Suzuki/Kawasaki/
aftermarket/bespoke all fit together. Final
job of the month: screw a whiteboard to
the garage wall, and make a big list of all
these issues. It’s time to get a grip.

12.2m

W hat do you do when your home GARAGE 2.4m
garage just isn’t big enough? DIMENSIONS
Inside your sheds and There’s always the option of
mancaves word selling a few bikes which, let’s be honest, get a good look in. I was always on edge,
isn’t really very palatable.You could go and it wasn’t fun working on the bikes. So, I
Duane Gray downwards and build a subterranean garage started looking at other possibilities.A mate
(as featured last month) or look at renting happened to mention a local estate had a
Sea containers are the premises from the local council. But there is shipping container that was up for rent –
secure, sensible choice another route, as this month’s garage man and I jumped at the chance.”
for anyone after a decent Duane Gray discovered – you could hire a
space on a tight budget shipping container. Paying £150 a month rent, plus a nominal
amount for electricity, Duane took up the
Words: Jon Urry | Pictures: Simon Lee “I was living with my wife at lease on the container and converted it
my father-in-law’s house, and into a garage with a workshop, motorcycle
he’s one of those chaps who storage area, tea, coffee and even cooking
has two of everything, so the facilities – as long as you like Pot Noodles...
garage was jam-packed,” Duane
explains. “There was no room “Initially I was a bit dubious about
for my plan to buy bikes, do moving into a container, but it has so many
them up, and then sell them on advantages. It is 40-feet long and eight feet
to make money. Using eBay to wide – basically two single garages back-
fund my bike habit basically, to-back. It’s in a secure location, and I have
which was a good plan aside built it to my spec. I reckon I’ve spent about
from I get too attached to the £3500 on materials to convert it into what
bikes and don’t sell them.” you see.And if I ever want to move it, I can
Faced with a full garage, and buy a new container for roughly £1200 to
having hired two council garages, replace this one, and then ship my one to
Duane explored other options. wherever I want.
“The estate where my garages were
located was the armpit of Bedfordshire – “There is one disadvantage; it gets bloody
and that’s coming from someone who grew hot in summer as it is basically a tin oven,
up there,” he says. “I was always worried but that’s about all that I can find fault with.
about the bikes’ and tools’ safety, and There are loads of estates or farms with
despite mates looking out for them – even spare space all over the UK and containers
parking their cars across the garage doors. are fairly cheap. I don’t see why more
When I was in there working on the bikes I people don’t use them.”
was paranoid someone would walk past and

17 1

94 Practical Sportsbikes 7

2
4

3
6

5

360˚ GARAGE

1. Walls and ceiling workbench, so I have computer on this as for £50 each, so were That Harris garage isn’t a patch on Duane’s
“I bought loads of this to support the I’m always looking up within my budget.”
reclaimed wood and stand when I use it on parts or how-to guides cupboards underneath I’m in the middle of
put batons on the the bench. The extra online. The internet 11. Fan for storage. Building a something. I’ll happily
ceiling, using self- height is really handy is such a valuable “The biggest issue bench is easy and you spend all day in the
tapping screws from to get the rear wheel a resource for a home with working in a can customise it to fit garage, which the wife
the outside going in few more centimetres DIYer, everything is container is heat in into your space.” seems fairly happy
to secure them, and off the ground.” out there. It’s linked summer, so I use this about.”
then added sheets of to my TV as well so I to try and get the air 14. Ozito tools
insulation. The walls 5. Seat can watch MotoGP or circulating a bit when “These are a 16. Vice
are built using batons “This was a £25 listen to music via the it gets really hot. I am really good cheap “This was dad’s vice
and plasterboard and Amazon purchase internet.” working on a proper and cheerful and god knows where
the electricity comes but I’ve changed the system that will draw make that has an he got it from. The jaw
from a junction box wheels as they were 8. IKEA trolley lots of air through, interchangeable doesn’t open very far
that feeds power from crap. It now glides “I wanted a tool which will be more battery. I don’t see but it has soft grips
an outside source into beautifully and only trolley, but then I saw effective. I’ve had no the point in spending and is good enough. I
the container.” cost £10 in new this in IKEA for £30. issues with damp or more money on a tapered the edge of
casters.” It’s really handy and condensation, it’s just better-known brand. the bench off so that I
2. BSB team picture holds all the stuff I heat in summer.” Ozito are from don’t walk into a hard
“A mate works at 6. Workbench use regularly such Homebase and I point when I’m using
Harris and this is a “I’ve had this about six as brake cleaner and 12. Tool chest believe are the same the workbench.”
genuine team picture years and although greases. On top are “This was for sale in as Erbauer, just with a
from when they ran it is brilliant, it is also plastic trays from the Homebase for £950 different brand name 17. Ramp
SP-1s in BSB with a bit disappointing. garden centre, which but I knew it had been on them – and a lower “This came from Wood
Shakey and Sean I bought it from are perfect for putting there for over two price tag.” Green Animal Shelter,
Emmett in 2000. Machine Mart and an engine on when years so I offered the used to get old, fat
Harris make great the hydraulic ram has you’re rebuilding it.” manager £400 for it 15. Snacks Labradors into vans.
products but getting a failed a few times. just as they changed “I have a kettle, It was up for sale in
discount out of them When it goes it drops 9. Ducati branding ownership – they were microwave and fridge, their shop for £5 and
is near impossible...” the bike straight down “The Rossi poster was desperate to sell it so so it means I can grab it can take the weight
to the floor with no from a GP, I bought it they agreed. You don’t a snack and drink if of a bike.”
3. Pressure washer resistance, which is after he had left the get if you don’t ask
“This is nothing special a hell of a bang and team so it was cheap, and it is worth keeping
but when you buy is why I now firmly while the Ducati an eye out for things
old bikes dug out of strap the bike down. banner is from a like this and making a
people’s gardens If I buy another bench dealership that a mate cheeky offer.”
you need a pressure I’ll save up for a quality was refitting.”
washer to blast years electric-powered one 13. Bench
of built-up crap off instead.” 10. Harris stands “I built the bench
them.” “Harris genuinely are myself out of
7. Computer stand the best paddock chipboard and then
4. Wooden plank “This will sit flush stands you can buy covered it with metal
“An ABBA stand is to the wall when but they aren’t cheap. I to give a hard surface
just too wide for my not in use. I keep my got them second hand and added a few

12

9 14
10 15

11
8 16

“Using a shipping container 13
made perfect sense”

Practical Sportsbikes 95

Stores on the doors:
every inch of space

used to the max

Oh, dear me...
“When I bought
my FireStorm it
was a non-runner
and the first time
I started it the
camchain skipped
and bent the valves.
I only paid £600
for the bike and so
after buying a new
head from eBay I
swapped them over
and now all is well.”

Bilt Hamber Deox-C Doors
“If you want to de-rust a tank, “I broke up a pallet and used the wood to both insulate and also create a
this is the daddy. You dilute storage area on the back of the container’s doors. Breaking them up was a
it down with water, leave it in total nightmare, but well worth the effort.”
the tank for 24 hours and it is
like magic. Simply incredible
stuff and it made my CBR’s
tank, which had stalactites of
rust, like new inside.”

5 Duane’s favourite tools...

A fine array of faves: the dB meter to avoid trackday noise aggro is a belter for around fifteen quid

1. dB meter 2. Torque wrenches 3. Lockwire pliers 4. Spark plug spanners 5. Safety glasses
“I bought this as I was so “I have two wrenches – a “I built a few CB500 “These are genuine plug “If you have ever had
paranoid about my track big one, and a medium trackday bikes to spanners from bike a splinter in your eye,
bikes failing noise testing. one – and I can’t fault them. Thundersport regs so toolkits and are way you will know the
I saw how the circuit Halfords make some really that I could sell them better than trying to use importance of safety
measured the levels, made good tools and with a afterwards (they’re a socket to get the plug glasses. The cheap ones
my own rig up to hold the trade account card, which hilarious to ride on track out. They may look cheap are crap as they just
meter at the required is surprisingly easy to blag, by the way). I used to and nasty but as they mist up but these are
distance and angle, and you get a good discount. work at the Shuttleworth have a degree of wobble only a few quid on eBay,
made 100% certain the They have a lifetime Aircraft Collection, and in them mechanism you and are comfortable –
bike would pass. For the warranty, never quibble when you see the guys can give yourself a bit of and have ventilation. I
cost of a dB meter (around should you return them, there lockwiring it is like angle to locate the plug don’t do anything that
£15) it’s a good bit of and I believe the torque an artform. I’m not bad, and get it out. They even could cause harm to my
peace of mind that you will wrenches are actually but the people who work come in different lengths eyes without wearing
be allowed out on track.” made by Beta.” on planes are amazing.” depending on the bike.” them.”

96 Practical Sportsbikes

360˚ GARAGE

Bike collection
“I created a separate area to
house my bikes at the back
of the container with a handy
storage area above it where I
keep my good spares. I have a
Triumph T595, which was in a
barn for 16 years but has brand
new bodywork, and is beautiful,
but needs its valve clearances
checked as it cuts out. A Honda
VFR800 Fi, which had been sat
for ten years after hitting a low-
loader. A VFR750 RC36 that is
becoming increasingly sought
after as it has gear driven cams,
and rides beautifully.

“The CBR600F was the first
bike I rebuilt frame-up, the
CBR600RR had a fried ECU
that I sorted by resetting the
electronics, and it cost me less
than £1000. The 929 Blade
had a knackered fuel pump and
was easy to sort. The £600
FireStorm bent a valve, so I
swapped the head, while the
Tuono was a Cat-C write-off with
a scuffed fork leg which I got as
a trackday bike for £1500.”

Trackday picture Snacks and spares
“This is me at Mallory Park on my “The mini-fridge is handy for cool
ZRX1100, which was a brilliant bike – if a drinks which are essential in here
bit big, fat and wobbly. There is a sticker in summer. And you can see how
from the Honda museum on the frame, close it is to getting stacked with
which I was lucky enough to visit during spares too. Space is always tight,
a work trip. I can’t tell you how amazing however big your garage is.”
that place is, simply mind-blowing. I had
tickets to the MotoGP the next day – but
I almost sacked off the GP to spend
another day at the museum...”

Honda RC30 Tamiya kit Workshop manuals Wooden chocks
“This is an original kit from the late-1980s or “Haynes manuals can only get you so far, what you need to do a “When you remove an engine from
1990s, so I’ll never actually build it. But at least I proper job is the workshop manual. These have wiring routing, a bike, chocks are essential for
can say I own an RC30.” all the torque measurements, everything you need to get the job ensuring it doesn’t fall over.”
done properly.”

Practical Sportsbikes 97