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.

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.

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 $70,000 mark for the XB, $190,000 for the XY GT, $65,000 for the XR GT and around $590,000 for the HO.

Anyhow, off I go to attend and we'll see how far off we were in regards to pricing.

Motorbikes that changed the world

A four-part series on the 12 motorbikes that changed the world.

Like all consumer items affected by fashion, motorbikes come and go. Technology allows change, legislation forces change. And 'state of the art' is a moving target.

But within that state of design flux, some two-wheelers have emerged as real trend-setters; machines that have changed the way we think about bikes, the type of people who buy them and what they're actually capable of.

Since World War 2, a handful of designs have proved themselves worthy of being called milestone machines. Some have been big sellers, others have shifted the performance goals. Some have simply been the right bike in the right place at the right time.

Here's our pick for 12 motorbikes that changed the world.

Part 1: Ducati 916, Kawasaki Z900, Honda Cub Scooter.

Part 2: Honda 750/4, BMW R80 GS, Harley Davidson V-Rod.

MiniRiders.com.au

MiniRiders is the most resourceful place to find out info on the Australian Mini bike scene.

Mini Dirt Bikes & Pit Bikes Forum.

Uncle Damien on Today Tonight

Doing the interview was a dilema. The way it looked, all riders were going to be "tarred with the same brush". Sensational tripe that would have a negative effect on bortgh our road safety and our ability to defend riders' rights. The speedster chose a tourist road and he chose to make his insane ride very public. He could have made his run on a quiet twisty road and just shown the video to his mates, but he did not.

I have a pathelogical hatred for motorbike riders

Can you believe this guy?????

What planet is he from?

Maybe we should send him back?

What are your thoughts please?

Check out the full story at www.BikeNut.com.au

V8 Motorcycle

This is an amazing piece of machinery that I witnessed personally at this years 2007 Picnic at Hanging Rock Show. Did you go? If you did not, you definitely missed out, mark it in your diary for next February, 2008.

Custom motorcycle stolen in Bristol

Bristol Police are asking for your help in tracking down a custom motorcycle. The owner, Robert Guenther, tells News Channel 8 that the bike's value goes well beyond its price tag.

Guenther won the bike in a fundraiser for autism. Last week, someone stole the one-of-a-kind motorcycle from his garage.

This Motorcycle Rider Is the Luckiest Man Ever

Today YouTube brings us a fascinating clip from the sport of motorcycle racing, where a rider crashes his bike, then misses getting killed by inches when another bike flies just over him instead of right into him.

Morristown Lion-A-Rama 07

Morristown Lion-A-Rama 07 OPEN Auto/Motorcycle Show is sending you a personal invitation to our show! Saturday, June 2, 2007 @ Fred Miller Park, Downtown Morristown, TN.

Motorcycle Raffle

KXNet.com North Dakota News - Kustomz Inc. will mold a motorcycle frame into a Budweiser themed chopper.

Police fear national bikie war

AUSTRALIA'S largest motorcycle gangs are expanding their Victorian networks as fears build of a national bikie war.

The Herald Sun reports that the Rebels are establishing a new chapter in the heartland of their rival Outlaws gang.

Share your Motorcycle Ride

Sunday Morning Rides is a new Web site aimed at Motorcyclists that lets riders access, explore, plan, and share Motorcycle trips via GPS and Google Maps.

The site includes a few Australian rides as well!

Crazy Bike Stunts Video

For all you guys that just love bikes and burnouts.

Bad Blood for Orange County Choppers OCC, American Chopper

Just a few comments from our millions of viewers regarding OCC (Orange County Chopper), American Chopper and their current visit to Down Under Australia, quite an interesting and unexpected read............"I have never witnessed so much bad form from a so-called celebrity group in all my life."

Boys from OCC, disappointing.

Carroll Shelby tries his hand at building a motorcycle

February 8, 2007 Carroll Shelby International and Rucker Performance

unveiled a limited production Shelby motorcycle at the Cincinnati V-Twin

Expo last week.

Biodiesel Motorcycle going for Landspeed Record

A Diesel Motorcycle?????? Hitting a land speed record????? See the full story at BikeNut.

Australia's Defence Minister is a Biker????

Australia's Defence Minister, Dr Brendan Nelson, is a keen motorcyclist.

He rides a Triumph. Next Saturday, February 3, 2007, he will be at the 13th annual Silverwater
Street & Custom Motorcycle Show as a guest Judge.

A 1915 Indian Racer for $7,500 USD....

Too good to be true.........find out more at BikeNut, there is 100 of them up for grabs.

American Chopper-OCC is coming to Australia

Paul Snr must have regretted not coming out to say hello to me last year when I was waiting all on my own outside the OCC factory, freezing my chops, and I knew he was in there, his Hummer was outside,now he's coming Down Under to make it up to me and probably bash me on the head while he's at it.

Read more at Bike Nut

ENV - Hydrogen Powered Motorcycle

The ENV is a clean green Motorcycle powered by a removable Hydrogen fuel cell, it has a top speed of 50mph, and a range of about 100 miles on about $3 of hydrogen. It is the World's first purpose-built fuel cell Motorbike.