Europe proposes standards for guardrails

Guardrails: great victory for motorcyclists worldwide!

On June 13th, CEN members voted a work item to improve the standard of safety barriers to take motorcyclists into account and reduce injuries and fatalities. This is a clear milestone for motorcyclists’ 20-year-long fight for their safety. The best birthday present FEMA (Federation of European Motorcyclists Associations) could dream of for its 20th anniversary!

Click on the title link to view the full report.

EASTLINK PROTEST RIDE - JULY 5, 2008

Dear Victorian Motorcycle Clubs,

Please make your members aware of this invitation to join our protest against the way the motorcycle community has been treated by our government.

This is not just about road tolls in the city. It's against wire rope barriers, the TAC tax, compulsory front ID for bikes and more.

Your members who can't make it to the protest ride can help by filling in the petition, seeing their Member of Parliament and/or writing to, or visiting, the media in your area. You never know they may have riders on their staff who will sign the petition and go on the ride.

Your club is welcome to attend the July 5 ride (DEPARTS noon) as a club and raise motorcycling issues most important to your members. Kids in their bike gear and club banners welcome. If this is a big, colourful, well-managed event we get media. If we get media we get bargaining power.

Damien.

ABOLISH THE $56 tac TAX

Dear Victorian Club Committees, Webmasters, Editors and Motorcycle Shop Managers & Staff.

Can you please make this petition form available to as many people as possible?

Encourage people to print it out, copy it and collect signatures. People do not have to be a rider to sign it. Putting it on bike shop counters would help a lot.

Completed forms can be returned to Denis Napthine MP or to me at PO Box 3091,Tthe Pines SC, East Doncaster 3109.

We want to present it to Parliament on November 12, 2008. The Eastlink protest ride is on July 5, 2008.

Damien

Download Petition

2008 MotoGP @ Phillip Island

After the success of the 2007 MotoHeaven MotoGP Marquee, I am proud to offer you our 2008 Corporate Package at Phillip Island 3rd - 5th of October.

This is an elite opportunity to spend 3 days with like minded people watching everything from Australian Superbikes through to the world’s best MotoGP talent! MotoHeaven’s friends, Stuntzinc will be performing their spectacular stunts right at the front of our marquee with MotoHeaven’s Lukey Luke! Please read the attached documents for more details.

Ladies and Gents... This is going to be one memorable weekend!

PROTEST RIDE - TOLLS, TAC TAX & FRONT ID

There will be a protest ride on Saturday, July 5, 2008.

The primary argument will be against road tolls for motorcycles but we'll be collecting signatures on the petition to abolish the $56 a year TAC tax too. And front ID for motorcycles and scooters is definitely a big issue on this protest run.

If we get the numbers we plan to have stands at the bike expo and the OZ GP to collect more signatures against the TAC tax. The petition will be given to an MP to present to Parliament probably on November 12, 2008.

The assembly area will be the Doncaster Park & Ride - Melway reference Map 46 K1. It's virtually empty on a Saturday. It's left out the gate. A few metres and left onto the Eastern Freeway which becomes the Eastlink toll road. Very safe. Traffic was light when these pictures were taken. Eastlink opens Sunday, June 29. There is a toll free period of a month.

At noon riders will proceed to Frankston at 10 kph under the speed limit. Probably 90 kph most of the trip. The distance will be around 60 kms. The destination is the Fankston Civic Centre in Davey Street - Melway reference map100A C9. There will be no road tolls and no entry fees or registration. A bucket collection will help defray costs.

All road registered trikes, sidecars, motorcycles & scooters are welcome. On the ride, normal road laws apply and each rider is responsible for him/her self.

We will be inviting City Councillors and MPs from along the route to be at the start or the finish or to ride with us. The media too. We'll have responsible pilots to take passengers. Let me know if you can take a passenger.

If we get the numbers, the November protest goes ahead, if not, it doesn't.

Hopefully some riders will be tempted to come a fair distance for a chance to ride the new super road before the tolls start. Others may be inspired by the recent successful protests by taxi drivers and pensioners but I doubt we'll see any topless riders this time of year.

Others still may attend because they are angry that our representatives on VMAC have not stood up for the motorcycle community's interests.

This is not an MRA ride.

Please use this media release as you see fit.

Media Contact:
Damien Codognotto OAM
Independant Lobbyist.
Melbourne.
0419 846 855.

PROTEST RIDE - TOLLS, TAC TAX & FRONT ID

There will be a protest ride on Saturday, July 5, 2008. The primary argument will be against road tolls for motorcycles but we'll be collecting signatures on the petition to abolish the unjust $56 a year TAC tax too. Front ID for motorcycles & scooters is definitely a big issue on this protest run.

If we get the numbers we plan to have stands at the bike expo and the OZ GP to collect more signatures against the TAC tax. The petition will be given to an MP to present to Parliament probably on November 12, 2008.

The assembly area will be the Doncaster Park & Ride from 10 am on July 5 - Melway reference Map 46 K1. It's virtually empty on a Saturday. It's left out the gate. A few metres and left onto the Eastern Freeway which becomes the Eastlink toll road. Very safe. Traffic was light when these pictures were taken. Eastlink opens Sunday, June 29. There's a month-long, toll-free period.

Please send an email giving your thoughts on road tolls for motorcycles and scooters to the paper at manningham@leadernewspapers.com.au .

At noon riders will proceed to Frankston at 10 kph under the speed limit. Probably 90 kph most of the trip. The distance will be around 60 kms. The destination is the Fankston Civic Centre in Davey Street. - Melway reference map100A C9. There will be no road tolls and no entry fees or registration. A voluntary bucket collection will help defray costs.

All road registered trikes, sidecars, motorcycles & scooters are welcome. On the ride, normal road laws apply and each rider is responsible for him/her self.

We will be inviting City Councillors and MPs from along the route to be at the start or the finish or to ride with us. The media too. We'll have responsible pilots to take passengers. Let me know if you can take a passenger.

If we get the numbers, the November protest against tolls, front number plates, the $56 TAC tax and other issues goes ahead, if not, it doesn't.

Hopefully some riders will be tempted to come a fair distance for a chance to ride the new super road before the tolls start. Others may be inspired by the recent successful protests by taxi drivers and pensioners and lobbying by nurses and teachers, but I doubt we'll see any topless riders this time of year. Others still may attend because they are angry that our representatives on VMAC have not stood up for the motorcycle community's interests.

In the current issue of Australian Motorcycle News (AMCN), MRA President John Karmouche said the MRA in Melbourne wasn't planning a protest. Read the Editorial and "TOLLING FIRST FOR VICTORIAN RIDERS" on page 10. This is not an MRA ride.

Please use this media release as you see fit. Pass it on to egroups, websites, newsletter editors and so on.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Independant Lobbyist.
Melbourne.

TO ALL VICTORIAN MPs

Road tolls, at about half the car rate, will be introduced for Victorian motorcycle & scooter riders on Eastlink this year. This is not good for road safety, traffic congestion or the environment. Bike tolls will be introduced across the State.

The only thing left of the gains made for motorcycling in Victoria in the 1980s is free footpath parking and rider training. Is anyone taking bets on what the government will attack next?

South Australia is set to pass a law that threatens Australian democracy. The law is opposed by the Democrats, the Greens and other reputable organisations including the Law Society & Bar Association and civil liberties organisations. In an attempt to crack down on organised crime, in the form of motorcycle gangs, the SA Government wants powers that are a threat to freedoms which Australians believe are rights.

Combine the SA anti-association law with national-level proposals for compulsory front ID for motorcycles & scooters using satelite tracking devices and you take a big step towards a police state. The technology exists and is being tested in 50 government vehicles in Melbourne. This technology has the potential to fine/toll vehicles anywhere in Australia and can even apply your brakes or kill the motor if rigged to do so.

The Melbourne City Council is considering ways to use these type of tags to impose a congestion tax on the CBD and to remotely charge parking fees. See The Age. Page 10. Thursday, May 15, 2008. The CoM calls its' version "Skymetre". Other Australian cities a bound to consider it.

The amount of data that these systems can gather on ordinary people is frightening.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Melbourne.
MRA Life Member.
Ulysses Club 21208.

EASTLINK - PROFIT BEFORE SAFETY

Motorcycle and scooter riders will have to pay road tolls in Victoria for the first time since the West Gate Bridge opened. In a vain grab for cash Citilink will charge riders about half the toll for a car in spite of the fact that bikes take less than half the road space of a car, especially if traffic filtering is considered, and they cause far less wear and tear on the road.

Global warming and traffic congestion are just two of the reasons why responsible authorities and companies are encouraging the safe use of environmentally friendly transport.

Damien Codognotto OAM, independant lobbyist for the motorcycle community in Melbourne said. "This is bad for road safety. The toll will force some riders return to single occupant cars while others will take less safe routes to avoid this unfair toll."

The toll is all the more unfair because there is no viable etag for bikes so it is more complicated and time consuming for riders to pay tolls. "The effect is discriminatory." He said.

Tolls for two-wheelers will force many riders onto less safe streets that they would normally avoid. The problems will spread across Victoria as more roads are tolled and more existing tollways target riders. Councils can expect more cars and more motorcycles and scooters in residential areas. City of Melbourne surveys indicate the number of people commuting to work on powered two-wheelers has doubled.

Reasons why motorcycles and scooters in Victoria should remain toll free:
Road safety. Freeways are safer.
The environment. Motorcycles and scooters are cleaner and greener than cars. Tolls will force many riders back into single occupant cars.
Congestion. Motorcycles and scooters help traffic flow. They take up less space than cars on the road.
Road Damage. Motorcycles and scooters do far less damage to infrastructure to infrastructure than other vehicles.
Parking. A car space can park six or more motorcycles and/or scooters.
Shareholders won't benefit from bike tolls. The number of bikes on tollways means collecting tolls won't be cost effective and more cars will slow traffic meaning less income and more losses in productivity.
No free ride. Riders contribute similar road costs to car drivers. Most riders also have a car so they pay twice.
"Tolling motorcycle and scooter riders goes against logic and against moves to reduce pollution and congestion. It's not just unfair, it's irresponsible." Said Codognotto.

The Victorian Motorcycle Advisory Council at VicRoads gave no warning of plans to toll motorcycles and scooters on Eastlink and other roads.

Contacts:

Damien Codognotto OAM
Independant Lobbyist.
MRA Life Member.
Ulysses Club 21208.

Lorenzo, Toseland and Edwards Columns in Rider Lounge

Find out what the Yamaha riders do and think when they are not racing for their team by checking the Columns section on the Yamaha Racing website.

Every few weeks the Yamaha racing stars will check into the lounge to file their latest report and give you an insight into their lives at and away from the race track.

You can now read the reports from MotoGP stars Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards, Motocross hottest star Joshua Coppins and expect others to follow!

You can find the Columns in the Rider Lounge section within the racing classes' navigation.

Mile Muncher - Yamaha XT660R

Yamaha have re-entered the busy dual-sport market with a new take on an old friend. Damien from Dirt Bike Trader mag took it for a run...

Two of the biggest growing sectors of the motorcycle market today are the scooter and the dual-sport crowd. The dual-sport machine is a hairy man's bike - one that will take you to the farthest reaches of the Earth and back again.

Like a packhorse, it'll carry all that you need to survive in the world's most inhospitable regions, and it's built to accept nothing less than a zero mechanical failure rate. Whereas a scooter would crumble under the weight of Charlie Bormann's incessant whinging - the dual-sport trooper marches on.

The range of dual-sport bikes has never been greater and everyone has something to offer. From Aprilia to Honda, Suzuki to BMW, your favourite colours and countries of origin are all catered for.

Yamaha has been quiet for some time now though. The tuning fork mob hasn't really had anything that could truly be called dual-sport since the death of the Ténéré. They have however, a long and distinguished history in dual purpose bikes.

In 1983 they released the XT600Z Ténéré model and it was a huge success for the company for over a decade. Fast forward to 2008 and Yamaha have again used the XT platform to re-enter the 'go anywhere' market, with release of the XT660R.

Based heavily on the XT660X motard bike, the 660R certainly looks the goods, with a styling that satisfies for off and on-road tastes. It wouldn't be out of place out the front of a fashionable cafe or an outback pub.

The engine looks all dirt, but aside from the frond guard, the rest of the bike looks like a tar burner. I like it. It's not as cool looking as the BMWs or the sweet new Honda Transalp, but it's very sharp and modern.

The controls are neither a great leap forward nor are they a let down.

The LCD speedo unit is an attractive bit of kit and looks pretty sturdy, but the windshield is too small to be of any use to anyone over two and a half foot tall. A dual-sport bike should have a good sized windshield to help fight those battering winds of Moldavia, or Sydney's F3 freeway.

The footpegs and side-stand assembly are not great. Suzuki's ancient DR650 offers better quality here. I'm not suggesting they'll break, but if it was all a little more sturdy there wouldn't be any complaints from me about build quality because the rest of the bike is well presented.

The dual pipes are a cool look and the bike idles cleanly and quietly, with a nice snappy response from a brap of the throttle. But when sitting still, you appreciate nothing greater than the soft wide seat.

It truly is your bum's best friend. In fact the bike's pretty comfortable overall. The tank is big between the legs, but it doesn't feel like you're humping a Volkswagen, as you do on a TDM, and although the seat climbs the tank at an angle that looks unfriendly to your precious cargo, you can still get pretty far forward without it getting too uncomfortable.

Reed 2008 champion with Las Vegas victory

Chad Reed is the new 2008 Monster Energy AMA Supercross /FIM World Championship number one after registering his ninth victory of the season in front of more than 39,000 spectators at the Sam Boyd stadium in Las Vegas last weekend.

The Australian, still recovering from a broken shoulder blade, went into the final round of seventeen with a ten point lead over main rival Kevin Windham but blitzed the field once more aboard his YZ450F to clinch his second crown in the class (the other obtained in 2004).

Reed obtained his 13th podium of the season after an electric start that saw him pull through from outside the top five on the first lap to pass Windham and motor to the chequered flag by over six seconds.

The track inside the Nevada venue was one of the longest and trickiest of the season but Reed coped with the pressure of seeing Windham take victory in the two previous races to produce a vintage and deserving performance when it counted.

Channel 7 Today Tonight "Bikie Bill"

Please watch the video. Pass it on. The Today Tonite item says that if the anti-gang law gets in in SA we lose freedom of association, the presumption of innocence until guilt is proven and the concept of proof beyond reasonable doubt. Appeals will be difficult if not impossible. Police will probably keep secret files on ordinary citizens (it's happened before) and double jeopardy will be a real threat.

Fuel Watch @ Australian Motoring Directory

According to Hitwise, the leading online competitive intelligence service, searches for 'fuel watch' increased by 75% comparing weeks ending 12 April 2008 and 19 April 2008.

Searches were prompted by the announcement of a national fuel watch scheme starting in December that will publish petrol station prices for the next day online.

The scheme aims to maximize transparency in petrol pricing by informing consumers about where the best deals can be found.

Philippaerts new series leader after double podium in Portugal

A sun-blessed and roasting Grand Prix of Portugal at the stunning Agueda circuit was the perfect remedy for the FIM Motocross World Championship after the sea of rain and mud that washed out the Spanish visit last weekend.

The splendid stage for round three of fifteen, south of the city of Porto, witnessed the Yamaha Monster Motocross Team score a double podium result with David Philippaerts finishing second and Josh Coppins third on the works YZ450FMs.

TAC ANTIBIKE TAX TO BUY POLICE BIKES!

I just heard a very ugly rumour that the Victorian Motorcycle Advisory Council (VMAC) approved in principle the purchase of 10 police motorcycles using money from the discriminatory Transport Accident Commission (TAC) antibike tax.

The TAC tax is now $56 a year and growing. The tax was supposedly introduced to increase motorcycle & scooter safety. TAC called it a "safety levy" like speed cameras are callede "safety cameras". Most feel it's all about the revenue. This is bad for Victorian riders and it's a bad precedent for interstate riders.

A fully kitted, male-friendly BMW police motorcycle would be worth over $30,000. Now I think there should be a lot more police bikes. I think there should be a variety of models and that police should ride in pairs a lot of the time and that ... but that's not the point. Those machines should not be paid for by an over-taxed motorcycle community.

I'm told the idea was approved by a majority at the VMAC April meeting at VicRoads in Kew. You are correct. The meeting was held in the same building where a draft regulatory impact statement (RIS) on putting front number plates on motorcycles & scooters was developed. VMAC members have to sign a secrecy agreement so these antibike measures hit as a done job.

Personally, I think 2 things have to happen before road safety in general, and motorcycle & scooter safety in particular, begin to move forward again. First. Our road safety authorities have to become independant of massive road building corporations and registration and licencing regulators. Second. VMAC has to get the authority it deserves and a budget akin to the tens of millions rightly put towards bicycling. That won't happen while the TAC tax is in. A bit less secrecy and more consultation with stakeholders would be a big help as well.

But VicRoads is a secretive organisation that leaks like a sieve. You have to ask yourself why it leaks. VicRoads was in the Melbourne Herald Sun again this morning (22/4/2008). It starts. "Abuse of VicRoads computers holding the personal details of 3.4 million Victorians has risen sharply in the past 5 years. But the state's vehicle licencing authority refused to detail the growing misuse by staff." Trust VicRoads? Apparently some VicRoads staff don't.

I also heard that X Victorian policeman and pusher of front ID for bikes, Ray Shuey, is a prime mover in this move to buy police equipment with taxes ripped off us.

I further heard that the Motorcycle Riders' Association (MRA) representative at VMAC, Tony Ellis, secretary@mraa.org.au , supported the idea. What! The MRA will hold a meeting in Melbourne one evening soon. The adjourned AGM. Secretary Ellis will be able to give you details. These are public meetings so riders who do not like the way they may have been represented at VMAC can go along and ask why an organisation, set up to lobby for riders' safety and rights, would be supporting a bike tax being used to buy police equipment. Incidently, MRA policy, voted on and in writing, is to oppose the TAC tax and strongly lobby for the tax to be abolished.

Now this story about using money ripped off riders to prop up a police squad, that desperately needs reform, may be untrue or inacurate, but, after the disgaceful front ID episode and with the name Ray Shuey attached, I'm not so sure. Anyone who can give me any info in this matter, please do. Anonymously if you like. Send it to PO Box 3091, The Pines SC, East Doncaster, Vic. 3109.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Independant Lobbyist.
MRA Life Member.
Melbourne.

Australian Supercross Star Chad Reed Scores Eighth Win

Australian Supercross Star Chad Reed has recorded another personal milestone, becoming the most successful rider to ever compete at Texas Stadium, after winning tonight’s Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship race in front of 46,656 fans.

This victory was Reed’s eighth of the season, the 34th of his AMA Supercross career, his fourth at Texas Stadium and sees him maintain a perfect podium record of six podiums from six starts at the venue.

With the championship title now well within reach, Reed rode a relatively controlled 20-lap Main Event. The 2004 AMA Supercross Champion was second on the opening lap and took control of the race on Lap 2 before steadily pulling away from the battle that erupted behind him for second and third.

The championship leader was unchallenged over the remaining laps and took the chequered flag 2 seconds ahead of fellow Yamaha rider Josh Hill.

Whilst acknowledging he was riding with the championship title in mind, Reed said his goal was to get out in front as quick as possible.

“I feel like I’ve given a lot of wins away this year so I just wanted to go out here and put in a good ride,” said Reed.

“I tried to get to the front as quick as possible and let those guys fight it out behind me. This was a track that you had to stay on your toes and watch to not make mistakes.”

“There are only four rounds remaining and I have a pretty good lead, I want ride smart and win a few more races as well as the title,” Reed added.

With only four rounds remaining in the series Reed holds a 27point lead over second placed Kevin Windham and will now prepare to head to Detroit’s Ford Field on Saturday April 12.

Lorenzo takes spectacular maiden victory at Estoril

Jorge Lorenzo topped off an incredible opening month in MotoGP with his maiden premier class victory today, his first ever career win at Estoril. After three pole positions and two podiums, the Fiat Yamaha Team rookie went one step further to win the Portuguese Grand Prix in fine style, taking joint first in the championship standings in the process. It was also the second double podium of the season for the team, with Valentino Rossi finishing third.

Back From Extinction - Honda CR500AFX

The Mad Monkey crew at Dirt Bike Trader mag got their hands on a Honda CR500AFX for a day and bring you the first Australian test of this very unique bike. Story by Dr Dan.

Yamaha force commence MX World Championship this weekend

The Grand Prix of the Netherlands at the Eurocircuit in Valkenswaard, close to the city of Eindhoven, opens the 2008 FIM Motocross World Championship this weekend and Yamaha’s strong arm faculty equipped with potent YZ machinery will go to the start-gate in earnest for the first time this year.

Wear leather jackets and pants EVERYTIME!

The horrific injuries to a motorcycle rider in Melbourne last week prompted Police to once again urge riders to wear leather jackets and pants, everytime they ride.

Too many riders are only wearing leather jackets and many not wearing any leathers on short trips, causing a major increase in injuries. In many cases, riders would walk away from accidents when they are wearing full leather protection.

According to Motorcycle Council Of NSW, most riders wear a motorcycle jacket (97%) but fewer wear motorcycle pants (45%). This is despite the fact there is actually far more risk of injury to the legs than to the upper body or arms.

Four out of five motorcycle casualties (81%) have injured their legs and a third have broken bones (32%). Arm injuries are less common (56%) and less likely to involve fractures (17%).

See this good guide to Jackets and Pants by the Motorcycle Council Of NSW - Road Safety.

Phillip Island Club Day

It’s MotoHeaven track time! A premium track day on Friday 11st April 2008 at Phillip Island for 2 Groups all day! That’s twice the track time!

Monkey Riding Mini Motorbike

An Indonesian monkey riding a mini motorbike on busy streets.
Looks like he forgot his helmet!

2008 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals in Horsham

Round two of the 2008 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals is set to take off in Horsham from 13 April, promising all the excitement of the National Championship.

Head to Horsham for this exciting must see event:

Horsham Motorcycle Club
13 April 2008
Action starts at 9am with Racing at 11am.
Henty HWY
Dooen via Horsham
Victoria

Admission:
Adult $30
Family (Two adults, kids free) $60
Kids (5-15 years) $15
More information on the event is available from: www.ozmotox.com.au.

Test ride a new 2008 Harley-Davidson

Come Test Ride a 2008 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle at Sy's Harley-Davidson in Moorebank, NSW on Saturday the 5th of April.

Ride Day!
Test ride a new 2008 Harley-Davidson

Saturday the 5th of April, 2008
10/377 Newbridge Road
Moorebank, NSW 2170
Tel: (02) 9821 3620

Signup starts at 9:00am. Rides from 9:30 to 3:00.

Crusty Demons Night of World Records

Saturday March 29 is going to be a night for the history books. Literally. Robbie Maddison has thrown down the gauntlet to challenge Americans Seth Enslow and Ryan Capes for the longest distance ever jumped on a motorbike at the Crusty Demons Night of World Records, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink.

This, however, is just one of many records to be broken. Cam Sinclair, Melbourne’s own Dual King of the Coast and the 2007 Australian FMX Championship winner, is set to attempt the longest back flip on a motorbike ramp to ramp. The previous record was achieved by the “Godfather” of FMX, Mike Metzger, for the launch of Mission Impossible 3 in front of Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas, and televised on ESPN in 2006.

Records up for grabs at the Crusty Demons Night of World Records include;
• Motorbike - Longest distance jump ramp to ramp
• Motorbike - Longest distance jump with a trick ramp to ramp
• Motorbike - Longest mini bike distance jump ramp to ramp
• Motorbike - Longest mini bike distance jump with a trick ramp to ramp
• Motorbike – Longest distance by the heaviest person ramp to ramp
• Motorbike - Longest back flip ramp to ramp
• Quad Motorbike - Longest distance jump ramp to ramp
• Quad Motorbike - Longest back flip ramp to ramp
• Road Bike – Longest burn out
• Road Bike – Most donuts
• Road Bike – Longest front wheel stoppie
• Snow Mobile – Longest distance jump ramp to ramp
• Army Tank - Longest distance jump ramp to ramp
• Motorbike with Side Car – Longest distance jump ramp to ramp

The Crusty Demons Night of World Records presented by Rockstar Energy Drink will feature a full Crusty Demons show with US freestyle stars, world number one Nate Adams, 2007 X Games gold medallist Adam Jones, Jim McNeil and Nicky Danielson, along with Aussies Blake ‘Bilko’ Williams, Steve Mini, Matt Schubring, Joel Balchin, Cam Sinclair and Jackson Strong.

The five hour fully choreographed event will feature a massive pyrotechnic and fireworks display, Australian bands, freaks, stunts, the gorgeous Crusty Babes and a light and sound show that will blow fans minds.

Tickets for the Crusty Demons Night of World Records are available at www.crusty.com and are selling fast.

Yamaha Factory MX Team Unites With Monster Energy

The Yamaha Monster Motocross Team will be hoping to strike extra fear into their FIM Motocross World Championship rivals in 2008 thanks to a new alliance with Monster Energy drinks.

The factory-backed Grand Prix squad - now entitled ‘Yamaha Monster Motocross Team’ thanks to the title sponsorship - will benefit from a high-profile three year joint programme with one of the new powerful movers in motorcycle racing for their attempt on the MX1-GP title.

Monster Energy, a product of California-based subsidiary Monster Beverage Co. part of the Hansen Beverage Company, have also lent their backing to the AMA Supercross series (an FIM World Championship) and have now extended their reach into the motocross Grand Prix paddock with the team responsible for winning three of the four titles since the MX1 class was born in 2004.

GYTR/ QLD YAMAHA DEALER TEAM 1-2 FINISH

Harley Quinlan and Nick Geck, the GYTR/ QLD Yamaha Dealer Team pairing, took the honours of both moto wins and first and second place at the opening round of the Yamaha Development Motocross Series held at Tivoli Raceway, west of Brisbane over the weekend.

Beating 30 other Under 19 division riders, Quinlan bested his teammate Geck by a slight .4 of a second winning margin in the second leg.

Yamaha Development Series Results- Rd 1
Under 19s
1st Harley Quinlan (Yamaha)
2nd Nick Geck (Yamaha)
3rd Joel Rizzo

Greg Hirst book signing at Harley Heaven

Greg Hirst will be at Harley Heaven in the oldest motorcycle precinct in the world, March 8, from 10am. The famous motorcycling identity is doing a book signing.

Hirst's book "My Motorcycling Life" was released at the Sydney Motorcycle Show. The book details key events in his thirty years on two wheels. He is a family man with five children and a civil celebrant. He writes for NSW newspapers and national bike magazines. Greg is known around Australia for decades of work in motorcycle safety and politics and for his service to the community in general and the homeless in particular.

Hirst rides a Harley and wears a back patch with pride. He serves as Sergeant-at-arms with the Christian Brotherhood Motorcycle Club. He lives the lifestyle and writes about it in My Motorcycling Life.

Harley Heaven is at 339 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. Elizabeth Street is the soul of Australian motorcycling. In the 1890's, long before there was a track on Phillip Island, riders and would-be riders began gathering in Elizabeth Street. In 1903 the Milledge Brothers opened the first motorcycle shop. The rest is history.

Melbourne independant motorcycle lobbyist, Damien Codognotto OAM, said. "Greg Hirst was at the first Canberra Run in 1980, he endured the troubles at Bathurst and he's been on every state and federal bike committee I can think of. He pioneered some of them. Elizabeth Street is the right place to launch his book down here."

Contacts:

Greg Hirst.
Sydney.
Christian Brotherhood Motorcycle Club.
Mobile: 0414 798 440.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Melbourne.
Motorcycle Riders Association Life Member
Mobile: 0419 846 855.

Honda and O’Halloran Kick Off Season with Podium.

Teknic Honda’s Jason O’Halloran has scored the Team’s first podium of the year after a strong performance at Phillip Island on the weekend.

The 20-year-old qualified his CBR1000RR on the front row of the grid, just next to Shawn Giles on pole, finishing up with a 3-4-3 finish in the three World Superbike support class races.

His overall score earned him the final place on the podium – an excellent result for the new recruit to the Superbike class.

The highlight of the weekend, however, was O’Halloran’s incredible pace in race one where he managed to smash the official lap record with a time of 1:32.921.

“We had really good grip with the Dunlop’s so I was able to push hard the whole race,” he said.

“I expected to be up with the top runners but to be honest, I didn’t expect to get such a fast lap in so early on so that was fantastic.”

“The only thing that let me down this weekend was my starts. I didn’t get away fast enough and just couldn’t make up the time to catch the race leader.”

“Overall, it was a very positive weekend and we are well prepared for the first round of Aussie Superbikes at Eastern Creek.”

O’Halloran’s team mate Glenn Allerton also came away from the weekend relatively happy with a fifth overall.

“We started out pretty strong in race one and I finished fifth, but we had a few set up issues so I didn’t quite get the finishes I would have like in the next two races,” Allerton said.

“Still I managed a personal best time of 1:33.5 which was helped by the high grip of the Dunlop tyres we had on the bikes.”

Teknic Honda Team Manager Paul Free of Motologic said the Team worked well together and the synergy is starting to show on the track.

“Jason and his Crew Chief Garry (House) are building a great relationship and have found a fantastic setting for Jason’s bike that really suits his riding style,” Free said.

“Jas and Glenn worked very hard this weekend and if the final race had not been cancelled due to scheduling issues, I think we would have seen them both improve on their results.”

Australian Superbike Event Points

1 Shawn Giles, 71pts
2 Jamie Stauffer,65pts
3 Jason O'Halloran,53pts
4 Craig Coxhell,48pts
5 Glenn Allerton,45pts
9 Dan Stauffer,35pts

For full results, please visit www.mcnews.com.au

For information on the first round of Australian Superbikes at Eastern Creek, March 14-16, 2008, please go to: www.aus-superbikes.com.au

(Sourced from Honda MPE)

2007 Honda CBR1000RR only 13,990*

The best value fireblades on the planet are now at TeamMoto Honda. For a limited time only and while stocks last, TeamMoto are clearing 2007 CBR1000RR's for only $13,990 plus orc and dealer delivery.

This offer can only last as long the stock does and it's going FAST, so get down to TeamMoto Honda 68 Moss St, Springwood or TeamMoto Honda 48 Lawrence Drive, Nerang and grab one of the last of the 07 Fireblades...

Suzuki's SV650AK8 & SV650SAK8

Suzuki's SV650 range has two new models, the SV650AK8 and SV650SAK8 ABS-equipped V-twin sportsbikes.

The SV650 sportsbikes are the latest models in the Suzuki range with ABS.

At the heart of both the SV650 and SV650S ABS models sits Suzuki's proven 645cc, DOHC, 90 degree V-twin engine tuned to deliver broad powerband and crisp throttle response with class-leading power and torque.

Suzuki's advanced Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) digital fuel-injection system with 39mm throttle bodies provides seamless, linear throttle response and strong low-to-mid range torque.

Offering a comfortable upright riding position with a short reach to the handlebars and modest 800mm seat height, the SV650 and SV650S ABS models feature 41mm-stanchion-tube front forks and progressive-link rear suspension both with adjustable spring preload.

Combining sporty styling with practicality, the Suzuki SV650 and SV650S ABS versions include a conveniently located passenger grab bar, luggage tie-down hooks and a large under-seat storage compartment and 17.0-litre fuel tank, packaged with a modern black mainframe, swingarm and wheels.

Each with its own distinct personality, the SV650 ABS styling features a single 70mm multi-reflector halogen headlight, while the SV650S ABS incorporates a sporty half-fairing with dual multi-reflector halogen headlights.

Featuring a two-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, the Suzuki SV650AK8 is now available in Candy Blue at an SRP of $9,990*, with the SV650SAK8 available in Metallic Grey at an SRP of $10,490*.

* Prices are inclusive of GST. On-road costs additional.

(Sourced from Netrider)

Ron ‘BALLS’ Solomon R.I.P

The passing of Ron ‘BALLS’ Solomon has had a profound impact on not only those who knew him well, but even for those who’d met him for only five minutes. Those of you wishing to pay your respects and bid a final farewell, you’re welcome to attend the funeral at the below details.

RON SOLOMON
' BALLS '
1951-2008

R.I.P RON
A TRUE LEGEND FOREVER

Date: Wednesday 27th February 2008
Ceremony Time: 12:30pm
Address: Fawkner Cemetery (Cordell Chapel) - Main entrance- 1187 Sydney Road, Fawkner

2008 Oceania Moto Trials Applications Now Open

Applications are now being called for interested riders to be a part of the Australian Team to compete in the 2008 Oceania Moto Trials.

The event will take place at Moore’s property, Undullah Rd, Undullah, SE Queensland (between Beaudesert and Ipswich) on the weekend, 22-23 March.

There are three places on the team which will take part at the event: an Expert rider, a Masters rider (over 35) and a Youth rider (Under 21).

The Masters and Youth Riders will compete over sections of high B / low A grade standard.
Once applications have been received the Motorcycling Australia Moto Trials Commission will then select the
riders to take part in the event.

Riders will be informed of their success as soon after the closing date as possible.
If you would like to apply to be a rider on the Australian Team, please complete the form at www.ma.org.au/oceaniamt, and send it to:
Jason Kelly
Motorcycling Australia
PO Box 134, South Melbourne, VIC 3205
jason@ma.org.au
Applications close Wednesday 14 March.

Casey Stoner wins Dawn Fraser Award 2008

Australian MotoGP sensation Casey Stoner was awarded the Dawn Fraser Award in the 28th Australian Sport Awards.

The Dawn Fraser award, the top award handed out by the Confederation of Australian Sport (CAS), was given to Stoner in recognition of his outstanding international achievements and his contribution to Australian sport.

Stoner is the first motorcyclist to gain CAS recognition since Michael Doohan in 1987, and was the FIM Road Racing World Championship 2007 winner.

The award was announced via a special online video presentation in conjunction with media partner SBS Television, and video presentations of the Gold Award winners can be viewed from today on both the Australian Sport Awards website - www.australiansportawards.com.au, and the SBS website - www.sbs.com.au.

Australian Speedway rider Chris Holder was also nominated for an award in the Young Australian Male Athlete of the Year category.

Mt Hotham Ride

MotoHeaven’s famous Mt Hotham ride is on the 16th and 17th of February! We are asking for all interested people to commit ASAP so we can confirm numbers with our accommodation.

We will be staying at the High Plains Lodge in Dinner Plain. It is a fantastic place to stay and they are putting on Live Entertainment for us again!!!

Format: Meet at Khyats Hotel @ 8:30 with a full tank!! (25 Wilson Street, Brighton ph: 95928178)
Depart Khyats @ 10:00am.
Lunch @ the Whitfield Pub.
Arrive at High Plains Lodge, Dinner Plain.
Party the evening away!
Breakfast from 8:00-9:00am
Depart Dinner Plain @ 9:30am
Lunch @ Bruthen
Return to Khyats for a cold beverage and chat!

To view the route prior to the ride please click on the Map. As you will see it is a spectacular ride!

The 2 Day ride costs $125 and includes Breakfast, Dinner, Accommodation and Breakfast again on the Sunday, there is also a support vehicle with a trailer to take your small bag and bike if required!

We have a great group lined up for this ride, it should be a hoot!

Motorcycle Barbie

Todays Herald Sun shows a picture of a crazy Motorcyclist riding along Melbourne's Eastern Freeway at 100km/h with a barbecue strapped to his body.
Apparently a passing motorist photographed the rider on Sunday evening, presumably returning from an Australia Day barbie.
I'd say he would have needed a bit of help to get the Barbie strapped on.

Summer Blood Challenge

On Sunday 2nd December the Motorcycle Riders’ Association will ride across the West Gate Bridge to Ballarat spreading the message 'donating blood should be part of everyday life' during the Summer Blood Challenge.

Melbourne Toy Run

Sunday 9th December - The 30th Melbourne Toy Run from Melbourne to Williamstown attracts 10,000 riders collecting toys for charity.

-:- Toy Run
-:- Motorcycle Riders Association of Australia
-:- Salvation Army
-:- OnlyMelbourne

MicaPeak

A free web site for motorcyclists with over 20,000 motorcycle models described by their owners, including accessories, problems they've had, changes they've made, and info about the owners themselves.

Also includes motorcycle-oriented businesses, Photo Archives, how to ship a motorcycle from the USA to Europe and mailing list services to the motorcycling public of planet Earth particularly the Pacific Rim of North America.

Kawasaki KX250F and KX450F Interview

Kawasaki has created history by winning ALL classes in the 2007 AMA and SXGP Supercross Championships with James Stewart winning both the AMA and SXGP Supercross Championships on his fire breathing KX450F while Ben Townley and Ryan Villopoto won the East and West Lites Championship on their awesome Monster Energy/Pro-Circuit KX250Fs.

James Stewart Interview on KX250F and KX450F

Australian Motorcycle Council

The Australian Motorcycle Council is committed to rider safety and rider rights.

-:- Promote and improve all aspects of road safety concerning motorcycling in Australia.
-:- Promote, improve and protect the use of motorcycles in Australia, recognising their environmentally beneficial place in urban and land transport planning and systems.
-:- Promote and improve at all levels the full knowledge, awareness, understanding and acceptance of motorcyclists’ welfare and safety needs in Australia.

Australia wins Oceania Championship

Australia has claimed the Oceania Championship for the third year in a row on the back of a strong performance by it's Lites and Junior riders at the iconic Barabool motocross circuit just outside of Geelong, Victoria, over the weekend.

TeamMoto - It's your ride. Make the most of TeamMoto

Roadside cameras to track bikies

SPECIAL roadside cameras would track bikies on the streets under a crackdown on outlaw motorcycle gangs being pushed by the Federal Government.

AdelaideNow... Roadside cameras to track bikies

City of Melbourne to ban footpath parking! - by Damien Codognotto

Next Tuesday the City of Melbourne will move to ban motorcycle & scooter footpath parking in Melbourne's little streets.

Support the Motorcycle Riders' Association against this environmentally-irresponsible attack on the Victorian motorcycle community.

World by Bike - Africa

Check out Gareth Morgan and crews amazing 4 month trek through Africa on BMW F650 GS Dakar motorcycles.

From dodgy African toilets to corrupt officials and the vast African landscape, well worth a read.

Motorcyclist's horrific death

Motorcyclist's horrific death brings call to ban 'cheese-cutter' barriers.

Motorcyclists are calling for wire median barriers to be removed immediately from motorways and state highways after the gruesome death of a young Auckland rider at the weekend.

Daniel Luke Evans, 21, was killed after hitting a wire barrier - nicknamed a "cheese-cutter" by motorcyclists - on the Southern Motorway near Papakura about 3.30am on Saturday.

22 Oct 2007 - NZ Herald: New Zealand National news

Also see Kiwibiker internet forum

Ducati GT1000 Bike Review

Ducati’s new range of SportClassic bikes is meant as a tribute to the early days of the Desmo legend, but the GT 1000 is far more than that. It is an ideal bike for everyday use and especially for touring. Here’s what Ducati says in the press release.

Ducati GT Bike Review on Road Rider

Kawasaki Vulcan VN900 Bike Review

So, to the VN900C7F. Everyone I showed this bike to liked it, except for one feature. Nobody had a kind word to say for the front wheel. Not because it’s a giant 21 inch hoop; the problem was the spokes. Kawasaki says that “for a true custom machine, a simple wire-spoke wheel just wouldn’t do”, but most of the people I spoke (sorry…) to reckoned a wire wheel would have been much better.

Vulcan VN900 Bike Review on Road Rider

Riding the Cinque Terre

Italian hill climb - With just three days to spare, the Bear finally visits a place he’s wanted to see for years.

"Yes, yes, here – then there, and up there and it is blue. Not far,” he said and he was right. Then he noticed the GT1000. “But this is a Ducati! Ah, they are excellent, excellent…”

Bike Reviews on motorcycle rides, bike travel, motorbike touring - Road Rider

Sydney Charity Run - Sunday 16th December - Western Sydney Choppers

Sydney's biggest charity run held all year supporting the Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit Parents Support Inc.!!

Sydney Motorcycle Show

Motorcycle show season is upon us again, your chance to check out the latest and greatest on two wheels.

Sydney Motorcycle Show - 2nd - 4th November.

Brisbane Motorcycle Expo - 21st - 23rd September.

Melbourne Motorcycle Expo - 5th - 7th October.

The Melbourne show should be pretty exciting coming as it does just one week before the 2007 MotoGP at Phillip Island.
One highlight is sure to be the presence of Chris Vermeulen. He will appear at the Suzuki display at selected times across all 3 days of the event.

Larry Emdurs new Harley Davidson

Larry Emdur is an avid rider and thoroughly enjoys his new ride, a 2007 Harley Davidson Black Springer Softail Classic with white wall tyres and fishtail exhausts.

He recently rode it from Sydney to Melbourne, down for the Logies.

Read about his experience at BikeNut.

American Chopper - Down Under

AMERICAN CHOPPER: AUSTRALIA BIKE SPECIAL

SECURES TOP SUBSCRIPTION TELEVISION RATINGS

The final episode of the three-part American Chopper: Australia special aired, August 23, on Discovery Channel. The series has delivered exceptionally strong subscription television ratings including securing the number one ranked position on each screening day for Discovery Channel’s core men 25-54 demographic. The first two episodes of American Chopper: Australia, which aired on August 9 and 16, were the most watched programs on subscription television nationally for their respective days.

Motorcycle Inspections

Bought a Motorbike on eBay, don't get bitten hard, get a BikeNut Pre-Purchase Inspection Report and let us make sure the bike is as described on the eBay advert otherwise you don't have to buy it. We have saved people alot of money by not allowing them to buy lemons, think of BikeNut as a little insurance, your eyes and ears, someone representing you.

BikeNut Inspection Services offers Peace of Mind to buyers of motorbikes anywhere in Australia.

Bikenut offers a range of pre-sale and pre-purchase services aligned with making sure the bike you are buying is the right bike!

BikeNut Inspection Services

• Pre-Purchase Inspection [buyer & seller].
• Secure Payment Service
• Transport to your door

Ducati style USB Drive

Sandisk and Ducati have teamed up to produce this ultra stylish Ducati edition USB flash drive. The USB drive comes with a"custom lanyard" so you can wear it around your neck and show your a true “Ducatisti,”

I wonder if Casey Stoner carries one of these in his pocket.

Classic Motorcycle Prices Soar

Bonham & Goodman's auction in Sydney on July 1 saw a classic motorbike from the estate of renowned artist and Broken Hill legend Pro Hart sell for $47,460, well above it's estimated $16k - $26k.

OCC's Chopper in Australia

Chief BikeNut reports on the Aussie themed American Chopper designed by OCC unveiling in Sydney, Australia!

Discovery Channel Australia invited BikeNut to attend the unveiling of the Aussie themed Chopper designed and built by Orange County Choppers – OCC in New York for the hit show “American Chopper”, boy, was I one excited fella...

Chief BikeNut designs the next OCC chopper

I wanted to design a Aussie themed Chopper for OCC (Orange County Choppers) and their renowned American Chopper Show on the Discovery Channel that represents Australia and this is my interpretation of how an Aussie themed Chopper should look like.

GT Falcons Soar in Price - AGAIN???

Hey, now I wasn't too far off was I? I anticipated that the XB would be the star of the night, re: Shannon's June 4 auction in Melbourne, and guess what, it was, $83,000, what a ripper. I had anticipated $70,000 for the XB, $190,000 for the XY, it sold for $211,500, my guess for the HO was $590,000, it sold for $525,000 and the XR GT sold for only $52,000 but recently sold again on ebay for over $80,000, well done Mister, you spotted well.

Where is it all heading? Well, I believe the XY HO's are staying steady at around $600k-$800k, the XW Phase II at around $350k-$550k, the XY GT's at around $250k-$350k, XW GT's at around $140k-$220k, XA GT sedans $65k-$100k, XA GT Coupes $85k-$120k, XA RPO's $140k-$180k, XB GT sedans $35k-$75k, XB GT Coupes $50k-$85k, XR GT's $60k-$90k, XT GT's $40k-$75k and the Phase Four XA GT HO, well, name your price for that one special car, the only, I dare say no price could buy that car, the owner would not sell.

Why the variance in price, well, it will always depend on a number of factors, colour, whether it is auto or manual, it's condition, if it restored or unrestored, interior colour, number of previous owners, every one of these points mentioned could make the difference between paying $350k or $500k.

I have one word of advice to all that are contemplating a purchase of a Falcon GT, whether it an investment or purely self indulgence, or maybe fulfilling that childhood dream, like I, make sure that you get a Pre-Purchase Inspection/Verification by www.GT351.com.au. Prices start at $1,000, think of it as insurance and definitely a must for any serious buyer.

Keep the marque alive and long live Alan Moffat.

Bikers, Always Being Ripped Off

I am sick and tired of always being ripped off as a motorbike rider, as a collective we need to do more about these kinds of reactions from our government, it sickens me, it's time to get up and speak our mind, like the good old days of the 70's, when we weren't afraid to speak up....................see more

AAMI Insurance - Banned by Motorbike Riders

AAMI you should be ashamed of yourselves, you are a disgrace. Read more at BikeNut.com.au

Signing off,

Chief BikeNut

Racing 4 MS

Racing 4 MS provides an exhilerating experience for people with Multiple Sclerosis and their care givers by raising awareness and funds for MS Australia.

Falcon GT's up for auction

Yeh, I know that you Bikers are also into your muscle cars, so I took this opportunity to let you know about tonight.

This months auction at Shannon's Melbourne contains a plethora of Ford Falcon GT's, an XY, XR, XB and a XY HO Phase III. Word is that the star tonight might actually be the Black XB GT.

Lot 22, the XB GT is the pick of the bunch in regards to Colour of paint and interior, it has the highly valued sunroof, it's a much sought after manual with some modern day creature comforts like power steering and air conditioning. Speculation is around the