May 2013

Was your last vacation this good?

4

2

Days Riding Italian Alps

Days Track Time at Sachsenring

News, Clues & Rumors the crowd, and by “young” we mean under 50. Event organizer Don Danmeyer told us there have been more young people showing bikes over the last two years, mostly in the bobber and open classes—I asked about cafe racers, but he said the younger cafe racer crowd seemed more interested in the vintage Japanese stuff.

Volume XXX, Issue 5 Publication Date: April 22, 2013

On The Cover: Editor Ets-Hokin does the only stunt he can, negating the environmental benefits of riding a zeroemissions electric motorcycle for a week. Photo by Bob Stokstad Contents:

8

Different Ducati & Triumph Demo Models to Try

NCR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 New Stuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 2013 Zero S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 BRD E-SuMo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Hyosung GT250R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Star Bolt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Corbin v Sargent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Dr . Gregory Frazier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Maynard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Hertfelder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Marketplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Tankslapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 O-Ring Wallet Chain Comparo . . . . . . . . . 33

CityBike Staff: CityBike Staff: PO Box 10659 Oakland, CA 94610 Phone: 415/282-2790 E-mail: info@citybike com Find us online: www citybike com

W B

hat you’ll say to make your riding buddies envious From September 12th to September 20th.You’ll fly into the Bavarian party town of Munich. Spend 4 days exploring Tyrolean passes by day and celebrating Eurostyle in an apartment Chalet at night. Then burn up the Autobahn and spend two days riding the MotoGP track of Sachsenring. Superfluous luxuries kept to a minimum to keep the price low and so you’ll get the goodies that matter like good bikes, a luggage vehicle, local guides and a track instructor to show you the lines. No tourist traps, you’ll ride Europe like a European.

ook it at Marin Speed Shop or Ace Motosport for $2971

Yup, that’s it. Stop in at the Bay Area’s finest purveyors of European Exhilaration to reserve your adventure. There’s only 10 slots so act now.

Marin Speed Shop (formerly Hattar) 601 Francisco Blvd E San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 456-3345

Ace Motosport 1931 Market Street Concord, CA 94520 (925) 969-7818

News ‘n Clues: Staff Editor-in-Chief: Gabe Ets-Hokin Senior Editor: Robert Stokstad Contributing Editors: John Joss, Will Guyan, Courtney Olive Chief of the World Adventure Affairs Desk: Dr. Gregory Frazier Staff Photographers: - Robert Stokstad - Gary Rather Art Director: Alan Lapp Advertising Sales: Kenyon Wills Contributors: Dan Baizer, Craig Bessenger, John Bishop, Blaise Descollonges, Joanne Donn, John D’India (RIP), Dirck Edge, Mike Felder, Dr. Gregory Frazier, Will Guyan, Joe Glydon (RIP), Brian Halton, David Hough, Maynard Hershon, Ed Hertfelder, Harry Hoffman, Otto Hofmann, Gary Jaehne (RIP) Jon Jensen, Bill Klein, David Lander, Alan Lapp, Lucien Lewis, Ed Milich, Larry Orlick, Jason Potts, Bob Pushwa, Gary Rather, Curt Relick, Charlie Rauseo, Mike Solis, Ivan Thelin, James Thurber, Adam Wade (RIP). CityBike is published on or about the third Monday of each month. Editorial deadline is the 1st of each month. Advertising information is available on request. Unsolicited articles and photographs are always welcome. Please include a full name, address and phone number with all submissions. We reserve the right to edit manuscripts or use them to wipe our large, fragrant bottoms. ©2013, CityBike Magazine, Inc. Citybike Magazine is distributed at over 150 places throughout California each month. Taking more than a few copies at any one place without permission from CityBike Magazine, Inc, especially for purposes of recycling, is theft and will be prosecuted to the full extent of civil and criminal law. Yeah! CityBike magazine is owned by CityBike Magazine, Inc and has teams of sleep-deprived, coke-addicted attorneys ready to defend it from frivolous lawsuits, so even if you see Lucien Lewis doing one of his wheelies on the cover and decide you want to do that too and then you hit a parked car and your bike is wedged under a van and it catches fire and the Vallejo FD has to come and extinguish the resulting blaze and four cars and your bike are melted into slag and you suffer permanent trauma including a twisted pinkie, sleeplessness and night terrors, it’s not CityBike Magazine Inc.’s fault and we don’t have any assets so just suck on it. You know better.

Arrangements made by Leod Escapes. Details available at LeodEscapes.com

The Italian and Japanese shows, in an entirely different building, were

BIG RACK ATTACK CityBike is on the march and deploying indoor racks in addition to its existing fleet of outdoor racks. If you see one, please compliment its handler on their good fortune. The new Rack-OMatic 5000s will be trickling out to shops in the coming months, and will come in freestanding, table-top, and wall versions. After quintupling readership in the first three years of ownership, this is the next step in getting people to notice CityBike amongst the other things competing for attention in the shops that we lay about in all month. Please do not leave your coffee on it.

CLUBMAN SHOW If you didn’t roll out of bed April 6th to check out the AllBritish Clubman’s show as well as the Japanese and Italian shows, and the indoor racing, you really missed out. Highlights of the Clubman show included some eyepopping Vincents like a Series-A HRD and a John Surtees Replica, as well as Brough SS100 that was formerly owned by Vintagent guy Paul d’Orleans (albeit in boxes—it’s now immaculately restored and worth a couple hundred grand) and a passel of old Rudges presented by the Yerba Buena chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club. We were surprised at the turnout—not because it seems to be holding steady from year to year, but because we were seeing young faces in May 2013 | 3 | CityBike.com

similarly busy. The Classic Japanese Motorcycle Club’s Alan Siekman gave me the tour of the show, making sure he pointed out a particularly rare and interesting 1963 Honda CR72 owned by Ron Mousouris. This bike, the only one known to exist, was a factory prototype racebike a serviceman acquired and raced in Japan and the United States and was actually the result of Honda’s R&D department fitting a one-off CR72 race motor (with experimental chaindriven cams instead of the works-style gears) into a Super Hawk chassis. The servicemen blew the motor up and then sold it to a Honda shop, where it languished for decades. Seikman tells us the camchain is something like six feet long!

We also enjoyed meeting Willie K. Bullion of Santa Cruz, builder of a unique flat-trackthemed Ducati Supersport-based custom. He works for Santa Cruz Bicycles, but is launching a new venture both modifying Ducatis as well as making Desmo-themed furniture—the trellisframed coffee table he showed us was particularly nice, and should nicely solve the problem of chassis flex traditional coffee tables present. Call him at 831/212-2202 if his work seems of interest.

THE CHP IS FOLLOWING US ...On Twiter, that is. Yes, it seems that not only does CityBike have a Twitter account (@citybikesf), but the Marin office of the California Highway Patrol does, too—@ CHPMarin. We don’t know why the boys and girls in khaki are monitoring our tweets, other than they like us, as we can’t violate the vehicle code as a magazine. But thanks for saving us from ourselves in general (and we mean that), CHP!

‘STICH IN TIME Pop-up. Yes, remember that buzzword, because that could be the hot new concept that revives brick-and-mortar retailing. Aerostich Rider WearHouse, maker of the famed Roadcrafter riding suit, pitched its tent at 655 Bryant Street (right next door to Dubbelju moto-rentals) for nine days, entertaining hundreds—maybe thousands—of Bay Area riders. In

Mr. Subjective pins le ordre du Aerostich on the Editor for riding 1000 hours with a wet crotch.

addition, the temporary location sized and sold enough suits to equal a month’s worth (or more) of orders in not much more than a week. It wasn’t really a full Aerostich emporium—that would have required a much bigger location than the spare room next to Embarcadero Automotive provided—but rather a clean, well-lighted and comfortable space where customers could meet Aerostich staff, (including founder Andy Goldfine and CEO Mark Blohowiak) try on gear and consult with a friendly fitting consultant.

seemed both surprised and touched by the number of Aerostich fans that came out to just say hi. “It was especially great to be able to meet and talk with so many of our good customers.” said company founder Andy Goldfine. “Lots of riders who’d been commuting every day wearing their Aerostich Roadcrafters for ten (or more) years thanked us for such a great product.”

Goldfine went on: “It was also wonderful to meet riders who wanted to try on an Aerostich suit, pant or jacket for the first time. We sure learned a lot, and had a lot of fun. What a terrific thrill to be in San Francisco... especially because it was still snowing in Minnesota. The overall results were good for everyone.”

Sadly, looks like we won’t see them again next year. “At this time we are not planning to come back next year—this was done as a one-timeonly experiment. Maybe we’d do it every other year? We are still evaluating. Thank you to all Bay Area riders to came by to say hello, and to shop and meet us. It was wonderful to meet and work with everyone.”

This stylish ride is result of the first all-new, ground-up redesign of a Moto Guzzi model since Piaggio’s purchase of the brand several years ago. In short, Piaggio views Moto Guzzi as the top European brand, and it seems prepared to spend the money necessary to develop motorcycles worthy of that position. I had to ride the new California 1400 models for myself, and Moto Guzzi extended an invitation to test both bikes near Malibu, California last week. The massive machines, in both Custom and Touring iterations were lined up behind a Santa Monica hotel, and I boarded one of the naked, black Custom models for my first impression. After being schooled by a Moto Guzzi representative on use of the three different engine maps (essentially Sport, Touring and Rain), the adjustable traction control and the cruise control incorporated into the ride-by-wire throttle, we worked our way at slow speed through

heavy city traffic before reaching the Coast Highway. Having selected the Sport mode (designated “Veloce”), my first chance to twist the throttle hard led to a big surprise. These bikes look like big, heavy cruisers, but this is no cruiser engine. This engine revs quickly, almost like a sportbike, befitting its very over-square bore/stroke ratio and four-valve head design. As a footnote here, the 1380cc 90 degree V-twin motor has a bore of 104mm and a relatively short stroke of 81.2mm. The horsepower kings in the “heavyweight cruiser” category are arguably offered by Star and Victory. Both of those engines are long-stroke designs with the Star displacing 1844cc and having a bore of 100mm and a stroke of 118mm. The 1731cc Victory engine is 101mm x 108mm. The four-valve heads on the new 1380 cc Guzzi also have significantly higher

GUZZI CALIFORNIA FIRST RIDE So-Cal Correspondent Dirck Edge of motorcycledaily.com sent us this first-ride report of Moto Guzzi’s California 1400:

Local riders turned out en masse—the Aerostich crew seemed undermanned at times, but luckily, a crew of local volunteers, commanded by former messenger Ray Roy, provided support, showing products and marshaling the crowd. Mr. Subjective himself, accompanied by fiancé Shirah, Ray Roy gives fitting advice: “If you notice your suit’s uncomfortable, you’re not riding fast enough!” Photo: Bob Stokstad

*As low as 0% fixed APR financing for 60 months available through Sheffield Financial, a Division of BB&T Financial, FSB. Payment example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 for each $1000 financed. Not all buyers will qualify. Higher rates apply for buyers with lower credit ratings. Check with Suzuki dealer for complete details. Special APR finance offer ends 5/31/2013.Down payment does not include tax, license and other fees. **Up to $750 Cash Back offer is available between 4/1/2013 and 5/31/2013. Offer available on new select unregistered Suzuki Motorcycles, ATVs, and Scooters. See dealer or visit www.SuzukiCycles.com/Offers for eligible models. Offer is non-transferable and holds no cash value. No transfer, substitution or cash equivalent of Coupon permitted. Promotion is subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited.At Suzuki, we want every ride to be safe and enjoyable. So always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Study your owner’s manual and always inspect your Suzuki before riding. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © Suzuki Motor of America, Inc 2013.

East Bay Motorsports 21756 Foothill Blvd. Hayward (510) 889-7900 May 2013 | 4 | CityBike.com

GP Sports 2020 Camden Ave. San Jose (408) 377-8780

Grand Prix Motorsports 2360 El Camino Santa Clara (408) 246-7323 May 2013 | 5 | CityBike.com

Mission Motorcycles 6232 Mission St. Daly City (650) 992-1234

enough to win over one of the largest police forces in the country, this new Moto Guzzi California 1400 represents a huge step forward.

in anger, I reacted with a “wow!” inside my helmet. In Veloce mode, the throttle response is so crisp I at first thought the fuel injection tuning was off, and that the bike was surging abruptly when I opened the throttle— I think this was part of my pre-ride expectation that this would be a typical, largedisplacement cruiser with a slow revving motor. After more experimentation, I think the motor is just super responsive for this style of motorcycle. The fuel injection felt very well dialed in.

compression at 10.5-to-1 (versus 9.5-to-1 on the Star and 9.4-to-1 on the Victory). So this is not a “cruiser” engine in the traditional sense. It is primarily air-cooled, so the compression ratio is still significantly below that of modern sportbikes, however. The motor has a fairly light flywheel effect, further distinguishing it from the typical, slow-revving, heavyweight cruiser twin. The primary balance of the engine with its full 90-degree configuration also adds to its free-revving nature. So the first time I opened the throttle

The “Touring” mode also offers full power, but a slightly

softer delivery. By this I mean that it takes a larger twist of the throttle to achieve the same engine response. After we got into a twisty section of canyon road and came to a stop for photography, a number of the journalists told me they preferred the Touring mode for the tight twists and turns, so I gave that a try. Switching to Touring mode, I found that the bike was still offered plenty of veloce, but it was easier to smoothly transition the bike in and out of corners. It allowed you to relax a little, but still go fast.

Service & Repair

While we are well-known for our work on Ducatis, we provide outstanding service on all brands and all models! Plus, it’s a friendly place...swing by on a Saturday for a cup o’ coffee and some bench racing.

Nichols Sportbike Service 913 Hanson Court Milpitas, CA 95035

(408) 945-0911

For Ducati product info, please go to:

www.nicholssportbike.com

May 2013 | 6 | CityBike.com

Which brings us to the subject of handling. Both the Custom and the Touring models offer the three-mode ignition maps, as well as selectable stages of traction control. This 90-degree V-twin is not a full-blown 1200cc superbike engine you might find in a Ducati, for instance, which almost requires a traction control system—it is a 1380cc engine with tuning somewhere between that of a sportbike and that of a traditional cruiser. Given the power and torque put out by this engine at low rpm, and the relatively light flywheel effect, you can spin up the rear tire exiting corners without much difficulty. The traction control can be turned completely off, but I put it in setting 1, which allows the rear tire to spin slightly before the system catches it. With this setting, I did not experience any problems during our ride, and if it intervened at any point I was unaware of it. This is nevertheless a nice feature to have, particularly during foul weather or on cold mornings with cold tires. Settings 2 and 3 intervene more quickly, so that you can essentially dial out any wheel spin whatsoever. With some of the usual Moto Guzzi shaking at idle, the engine really smoothes out as soon as you get underway. In addition to the inherent silkiness of a 90-degree V, the engine is mounted in a unique way to isolate vibration from the frame without affecting chassis stiffness or handling. I was aboard the Touring model when journalist Basem Wasef and I decided to sprint ahead of the rest of our group and hang with the Moto Guzzi representative who had decided to really push the pace. Basem and Guzzi guy were on the naked

Customs, which come with slightly longer travel rear suspension (10mm). The bikes handled very well, limited only by their ground clearance. Despite the massive wheelbase and huge tires (including a 200 section, 16-inch rear and a 130 section 18-inch front), both the Touring and the Custom models change direction easily. Overall handling was surprisingly good, given the size and weight of the bikes (claimed weight ranges from 661 pounds for the Custom to 709 for the Touring). Both bikes have comfortable ergonomics. In fact, these are the first Moto Guzzis I have ridden in a while that seem to have plenty of legroom, placing the foot pegs/ floorboards in the proper position. The seats are different on each model, but both offered firm support that was comfortable during the relatively short time I was aboard each bike.

One of the journalists at the press introduction last week asked Miguel Galluzzi, designer of these beautiful bikes, whether Moto Guzzi was targeting any particular competing manufacturer, such as Harley-Davidson. Galluzzi didn’t hesitate : “No. Moto Guzzi is unique, and it does not compete with HarleyDavidson,” although he would “welcome Harley-Davidson riders to the Moto Guzzi experience.” This fit perfectly with my own impressions of these new California 1400s. They are not traditional cruisers. They ride in a spirited manner similar to much lighter bikes, as a result of a quick revving, powerful engine and solid, refined handling. Are they “muscle bikes?” Are they “brawny standards?” Apparently, Galluzzi thinks they are none of the above. They are simply a new type of Moto Guzzi.

the TVS Motor Company of Chennai, India. TV who, you say? Well, it’s a smaller manufacturer—a mere two million units a year—but apparently it’s the next one down the list, as KTM and Erik Buell racing have snapped up the relationships with heavier hitters like Bajaj Auto and Hero MotoCorp. In any case, this kind of relationship seems to make sense. BMW accesses TVS’ factories, supply chain and bazillion customers, and TVS gets BMW’s big-bikebuilding prowess, presumably to help it get beyond making motorcycles that don’t price into the four figures. That’s right, the TVS Phoenix 125 is priced at 49,000 Rupees: about $990. But don’t worry— motorcycles resulting from this marriage will “meet the expectations of a BMW

The Moto Guzzi California Touring 1400 ABS will be available soon at United States dealers at an MSRP of $17,990. The California 1400 Custom ABS will also be available soon at a price of $14,990. The more expensive Touring model nets you the integrated saddlebags, windshield, fog lights, touring saddle and passenger grab rail. An extensive list of accessories will be available for both bikes, and you can essentially turn a Custom into a Touring after purchase. For additional details and specifications, visit the Moto Guzzi web site.

BMW AND INDIANS BMW Motorrad leaped onto the emergingmarkets bandwagon April 4th when it announced a cooperative venture with

Moto Guzzi has given these bikes six-speed transmissions despite their huge torque and broad powerbands. They shift as well as any large-displacement V-Twin I have ridden, which is a testament to the development efforts since Piaggio acquired the brand. Both the Touring and Custom models share the same engine, which Moto Guzzi rates at 96 hp at 6500 rpm and 88.5 footpounds of torque at 2750 rpm. The braking system (which is not linked) includes dual 320mm front discs controlled by quality Brembo radial-mount fourpiston calipers. The rear brake is a 280mm disc and Brembo two-piston caliper. The brakes were outstanding during our brief test, offering huge power with very good feel. Just what you need when hauling down a powerful 700-pound machine. This Moto Guzzi California has come an awful long way from the decades-old V-7 Police model fancied by the Los Angeles police department. While that bike had Moto Guzzi soul, and performed well May 2013 | 7 | CityBike.com

motorcycle in terms of riding fun as well as setting a new benchmark when it comes to stability, agility and performance figures,” BMW Motorrad President Stephan Schaller told the press. Does that mean we’ll see a $5000 500cc BMW in US dealers someday? I wouldn’t guess no, but I’d also posit there will be plenty of demand for pricier-yet-stillaffordable luxury-branded motorcycles in India, a market with sales figures that dwarf ours—for instance, Indian consumers bought 541,615 two-wheelers in December 2012. From one company. So when you say, “BMW, bring in that cool little R500GS, I’ve got my checkbook ready,” make sure you say it in Hindi.

DUCATI SHAKEUP

I am Mike Padway, and I ride motorcycles.

Late-breaking (or should we say braking?) news: Gabriele Del Torchio, Ducati’s CEO since 2007, has been replaced by Claudio Domenicali. Domenicali has 22 years of experience with Ducati, and most notably led the Corse department to a fantastic string of victories in both World Superbike and MotoGP. Currently he was General Manager. “Domenicali knows Ducati and the motorcycle business more than anyone,” said Audi (which now owns Ducati) CEO Rupert Stadler. “He embodies continuity and Ducati’s values in an exceptional manner.”

I prefer to represent motorcycle riders who have been injured because I like working with motorcyclists. We are slightly different than the rest of the population, in a way that makes us just a little more engaged, realistic, and a lot more enjoyable to be around.

Why Del Torchio left isn’t explained in Audi’s communications, but we can only guess it’s because the company isn’t doing what Audi needs it to do. “Del Torchio guided Ducati out of an economically difficult phase, back to a successful growth path,” said Stadler. “For that achievement, we express our gratitude on behalf of all Audi and Ducati employees and wish him all the best in his future tasks.”

I am proud of the fact that I protect the interests of motorcyclists because it can seem at times like the deck is stacked against us. Insurance companies often attempt to use “car logic” to settle a motorcycle case, and as you and I both know that is not fair. Furthermore, it is explicit that your desire to have your losses compensated is in direct conf lict with an important goal of the insurance industry: to pay out as little as possible to you, and maximize their profit! That is where I come in. I have decades of experience navigating the legal and insurance hurdles, have lectured nationally for the American Bar Association, and have represented riders across the country. Of course, nobody can guarantee any outcome of any case, but it is always better to have representation that is experienced in your type of case.

PISTON AND CHAIN CityBike’s North Bay distribution manager and person-about-town Gwynne Fitzimmons sent us this report of an interesting new motorcycling organization:

stages of assembly, occupying the two lifts and abundant floor space, and more rolled in while I was there. Several members, including the owner of two prominent Bay Area motorcycle dealerships, were hanging around the large table eating, drinking and conversing with one another, while others were hanging out in the kitchen area or on the eat-you-alive plush leather sofas. What is Piston & Chain? It’s the brainstorm and creation of Matt and Erica, the extension of an idea that formed more than a year ago in Matt’s San Francisco garage. Imagine: a co-op for motorcycle enthusiasts. They’re not your everyday riding group. Sure, they gather in the evenings, use community tools to maintain (and improve!) their motorcycles. But they also organize group rides and adventures featuring all sorts of motorcycles, with a soft spot for classic bikes of the ‘70s as well as Adventure and dirt bikes. Piston & Chain allows for anyone that loves two wheels to join the club. What sets them apart is that they are also a retailer—selling select products, endorsed by members for the San Francisco motorcycle lifestyle.

According to Matt it took the better part of a year to find the ideal location, then renovate the old Mack Folsom Prison sex There’s a new kid in town! club into something that even the faint of heart can enter. The Monday evening What do you get when you cross a events range successful from presenters software such as Joanne guy, an old “Gear Chic” bondage club, Donn to a garage full tire-changing of gearheads, seminars. and a bunch Additionally, of people that Piston & want to hang Chain hosts around, wrench, provocative learn, and play guest such together? You as Lyndon get Piston & Poskett, a Chain, a new Dakar private face in San entrant, who Francisco’s came to discuss “Dakar for Privateers burgeoning motorcycle scene. Rally Management Services” and Pierre I had the good fortune to spend a few hours Terblanche - the ex director of design for one Wednesday evening at Piston & Chain Ducati (expect a report on Terblanche next with Matt Work and Erica Fawell. The place month—ed.). was bustling with activity when I arrived. An eclectic lineup of bikes was in various

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, please do not hesitate to call for a phone consultation or to set up a meeting in person. Oh, and unlike other lawyers you can talk to me and I will return your phone call. If you have been injured on a motorcycle and need a lawyer, call:

1 (800) 928-1511

www.michaelpadway.com May 2013 | 8 | CityBike.com

Wednesday evenings are open wrench and a strong draw for prospective members; coupled with a friendly attitude towards “noobs,” Piston and Chain is a friendly environment for new and seasoned riders alike. What does it take to belong to this group of gifted individuals representing all makes and models of folk? There is no initiation fee, no hang-around clause, no hardbound contract making you commit the next 20 years of your life and your first born. You simply check it out, and if it’s something that suits you there are two options. A low-cost option, the $29/month “125cc”, allows access to the shop on Wednesday nights and the option to rent a lift or do tire and oil changes. The $59/ month “750cc” members get to use the shop more frequently, don’t pay for lift rental or tire/oil disposal, and can leave their bikes overnight occasionally. Both levels also get access to club events, shop rides, movie nights and the right to just kind of hang out. Check it out at pistonandchain.com or swing by the space at 1285 Folsom at 9th street.

SPLITTING HEADACHE IN NEVADA What? Facts and data? Being politely considered by state legislators? Weird, right? And yet it happened, just next door in the great state of Nevada, which in mid March introduced AB236, a bill to amend the Nevada vehicle code to allow lanesplitting by motorcyclists. Crazy, right? The legislation was introduced by a trio of Democratic assemblymen.

According to Surj Gish’s blog, lanesplittingislegal.com, the bill would allow motorcycles to lane-split up to 30 mph in stopped or rolling traffic, reminiscent of the CHP/OTS guidelines we discussed at length in the March issue (“Splitting Headache”). According to hellforleather.com, Assemblyman Daly, one of the sponsors (and not a rider), wants to legalize it at the request of a friend, “to help air-cooled bikes in the Nevada heat. Some side benefits are to help commerce, help the state and reduce overall motorcycle restraints.” Sounds good to us, but not so much to hysterical housewifey-type Assemblywoman Maggie Carlton, who fears somehow her kids would get their arms broken and the back of her minivan spattered with biker guts if this bill passes. “It just seems like a very dangerous thing to be doing,” she remarked at the Transportation Committee hearing.

Other member expressed similarly weird and unfounded concerns. In the hearing, moto-safety expert Steve Guderian cited reams of data from European and U.S. studies that show lane-splitting may actually be safer than riding behind cars (as anybody who has actually lane-split knows). Abovementioned bizarre responses aside, the legislators seemed to thoughtfully ponder Steve’s words. We’re hopeful the bill will go somewhere, although historically, bills like this—in Oregon and Texas, specifically— seem to quietly die in committee. We’ll keep you posted—and you can go to the Nevada legislature’s website for more updates. Go to the Hell for Leather website (hellforleathermagazine.com) to watch video of the hearings. Thanks to Jim Edwards of Reno for the tip, and for Surj’s excellent site.

CALMOTO ON TOP Kudos to Cal Moto, the two-location BMW, KTM and Triumph dealer in both Livermore and Mountain View. Under new owner Mike Meisner, the dealership is now one of Triumph North America’s “Top Dealers,” garnering praise in a recent national ad campaign. It’s because the shop advertises in CityBike, of course.

Ducati Superbike racer Cook Neilson will be on hand, as will a new vintage-style 250cc racebike, the AVA 250 Swift. Oh, and the barbecue lunch served at this event (included with the $65 admission price) has always been pretty good. Don’t miss it: go to quaillodgeevents. com or call 831/620-8879.

SF MOTO GOES MOBILE Local shop SF Moto deserves some kudos for making it easier to buy, sell or just browse for new or used motorcycles—on a smart phone. The website is optimized for small-screen viewing, is easy to search, and even has a function to allow you to photograph your bike to get a valuation from the sales department. Have your grandson go to sfmoto.com and show you how to use it.

SONOMAFEST 2013

Also that week: Sonoma Raceway brings back SonomaFest for 2013, May AKRAPOVICTIMIZED 1-5. It kicks off with a 3J’s Well, the Black Helicopter Conspiracy motorcycle track day, a charity event that guys were right about CARB, at least. The gets you six on-track sessions for $250, a smog-fighting entity really has crimped our catered lunch, a T-shirt, raffle and evening freedom to be noisy gross polluters, and it reception on Wednesday May 1. Proceeds has taken its toll on the aftermarket exhaust benefit Speedway Children’s Charities. component industry. The latest victim is Slovenian company Akrapovic (which,

despite our above pun, is pronounced “uhcrop-oh-vitch”), which had to pay a small fine and kowtow to the agency after an audit revealed some of its products weren’t in compliance with strict new emissions standards for aftermarket bits. Retailers and shops all over the state report dramatic declines in business and increased oversight from CARB—the days of slapping on a noisy, “free-flowing” muffler and rejetting the lean out of your fueling are gone, at least if you depend on a licensed shop to do that kind of work.

RAINEY AT THE QUAIL Another reason to visit the 2013 Quail Motorcycle Gathering in Carmel this coming May 4th—the special guest speaker will be Wayne Rainey himself. One of his famous racebikes, the YZR500, will accompany the three-time 500cc GP winner and Daytona winner. If that’s not enough to drag you out on a Saturday, May 2013 | 9 | CityBike.com

That’s followed by two days of AHRMA vintage racing, always a good show— there are nearly 250 entries in 42 classes, including pre-war, ‘50’s, ‘60s, ‘70s and modern bikes like Twins and Singles. After the oil and shattered crankcases have been

powersports.honda.com ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, AND NEVER USE THE STREET AS A RACETRACK. OBEY THE LAW AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY. For rider training information or to locate a rider training course near you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 1-800-446-9227. *MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $310.00 destination charge and dealer-installed options. Dealer prices may vary. CTX™ is a trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2013 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (03/13)

cleaned up, there will be two more days of racing in the form of AFM, where 200 racers battle it out in dozens of classes, from 250 Production to Formula Pacific. On the same days, May 4 and 5, Supermoto USA will be sliding and bar-banging at the Raceway Karting Center. On Saturday, May 4, our friends at RKA luggage will be leading a scenic ride to the track. The $25 entry fee gets you into the scenic Wine Country cruise and benefits the Speedway Children’s Charities. For more info on all this, go to racesonoma. com or call 800/870-7223.

ONE MORE BELLINO More words about our sponsors—Dan Bellino, son of Circle Bell Motorsports’ Bob Bellino, has joined the company as VP of Operations. Circle Bell markets, organizes and presents the Sacramento Mile and Santa Rosa Mile flat-track events. Dan comes back to racing (he’s been flying out to the Coast to help out on race weekends for several years) by way of the Bronx, where he was a public school teacher. We’re hoping the new blood will ensure we’ll enjoy the excitement and class of AMA flat-track racing in Northern California for many years to come.

were always treated fairly and with respect by the man, who turned his experience as a journalist into a 15-year tenure at the Raceway. He was a classy dude and is greatly missed. He was married and had two daughters. For those who would like to make a donation in John’s honor, a memorial fund has been set up on behalf of his family. Donations may be sent to the John Cardinale Memorial Fund, care of Sonoma Raceway, 29355 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, 95476.

smoothly and quietly, and it is quiet, functional and comfortable. Some alternate products that I’ve tried have annoying, amplified plastic snapping or sliding sounds that come out of the face shield when you operate it, and that makes them feel cheaper by comparison. The shields on Arai helmets slide smoothly and almost silently when opened, which I tend to do when speed drops or around town. Just feels smoother and more polished than other makes of helmet. The face shields are durable and easy to remove/reinstall without tools or fooling around, and the venting has improved over the years as well, so this is definitely a well-designed product. A major safety improvement in this helmet is a pair of bright orange tabs sewn into the cheek/jaw pads. Tugging on the

Step away from shopping for cheap price (at $720, this is a premium model) and start looking for something that you can live in and with for the long term, and the RX-Q is a serious contender. It’s designed for people who are committed to riding and understand that comfort and a more refined execution are desirable values in a helmet. —Kenyon Wills

SIDI ADVENTURE GORE A month ago, no one could have convinced me that I would spend 500 bucks for a pair of motorcycle boots. Now, a month later, the price is (almost) long forgotten. When my Alpinestars bit the dust, I did a canvass of half a dozen motorcycle shops, comparing feature for feature. I read reviews, I talked to other riders, I hit the online forums, and I soul searched for my own balance point in the safety/comfort/ hassle continuum. I loved the look of the Sidi On Road boots. These are the longest running style, have a great traditional look, but are updated with GoreTex. However, they did not have the level of protection I was looking for.

NEW STUFF MAY 2013 Q-SHIP

I have favored Arai helmets since I got one as my first helmet in 1993. The RX-Q STOCKTON HALF-MILE seems unremarkable And speaking of flat-track racing, tickets for to me at first glance, the Stockton Half Mile are now available. because I’m familiar The Saturday, May 11th event will feature and comfortable AMA pro racers on the New Stockton with the company’s 99 Speedway track at the Stockton products already—it’s Fairgrounds. It’s a full day of racing and what I have chosen tickets start at just $30. 20 years. On second glance, it’s a darned good PASSING product that I’ve taken for CityBike lost a friend when John Cardinale, granted across sequential helmets from the company. the long-time media relations manager Why? The Arai fits my head, at Sonoma Raceway, passed away after a its mechanical parts operate two-year battle with gastric cancer. We

Repair & Service

tabs allows the pads to be removed without removing the helmet from the rider’s head, allowing EMTs to remove less stress on the neck/spine in the event of an accident. Don’t want my helmet damaging me on the way off if it comes to that.

I ended up getting the Sidi Adventure Gore boots. They have

We Ship Worldwide

CALL US FIRST! Salvaged & New Parts!

the all-important stiff sole, which happens to be a lug pattern that looks good for walking. They close with two buckles and a Velcro flap. One buckle tightens the instep, one the shin, and the Velcro closes around the shin. There is lots of stiffness and resistance to twisting an ankle, plenty of plastic nearly everywhere, but enough high-quality leather to give them the feel and ambiance of a leather boot. The usual features, like protection from the shift lever, are all taken to high levels. The fit (I have a medium width, flat foot) is fantastic. Even as stiff as these were out of the box, they were immediately ingratiating. I felt like a little kid who wants to sleep in his new cowboy boots. Now that they are wearing in, they are so very much the better. Of course, the high level of protection just feels good when you are on the bike, but the comfort reinforces this sensation as well. On the downside, there are many reports of squeaking, particularly when these are new. One online review said, “no, really” when describing how loud this was. I found that mink oil slowly quieted them down. At least one person wrote he used WD-40 successfully. The culprit here seems to be the plastic or the plastic against the rubber. I have mink oiled twice, and the squeaking is still there, but tolerable. The other suggested adjustment I made was to put in orthotic footbeds. There isn’t anything wrong with the factory footbeds (nor should there be, at this price point), but the aftermarket orthotics “take it up a notch,” as Emeril would say. With the orthotics, I often don’t take them off for several hours when I get to the office. I can easily see keeping them on at a motorcycle gathering, and maybe even wearing them for a day at the races. They are warm, however. Choice of socks will be important on a warm summer day. For those of you who watch Anthony’s video reviews at Revzilla.com, you know that he owns a pair of these boots, has crashed in them twice, and loves them (maybe a little too much, as he describes them as “heirloom” quality). I have no plans to leave my boots to my heirs,

but these are by far the best motorcycle boots I have ever owned, and I can recommend them without hesitation. Get your Sidi boots through your local moto-shop or Moto Nation: motonation.com, 619/401-4100.

—Mike Padway

LUNASEE If you want to gussy up your ride for Bike Night—or make it incredibly visible for safety reasons—you may have considered wheel lighting. Unfortunately, it’s a complex, expensive and time-consuming project. That’s where Lunasee comes in. It’s a simple system that uses a small

control unit that draws just .4 amps, LED light pods that clamp to your swingarm or fork tubes, and some strips of photoluminescent tape attached to your rims— and that’s it. The kits run $150 or $200 (one wheel or two) and you can get yours at Road Rider in San Jose or other dealers. Call Road Rider at 408/227-6936 or go to lunasee.com for more information.

New service customers, please accept a $50 voucher on any service work on your Jap/ Euro bike as an introductory gift from us.

510 594 0789

http://www.rockridgetwowheels.com

925 938 0600

http://www.vespawalnutcreek.com

For all your Bay Area Vespa / Piaggio / Aprilia needs

Tue–Fri 10–6 Sat 9–5



EVENTS MAY 2013 First Monday of each month (May 6, June 3): 2:30 – 10:00 pm: Northern California Ducati Bike Nights at Benissimo (one of Marin’s finest Italian Restaurants), 18 Tamalpias Dr, Corte Madera. NorCalDoc.com 6:00 pm: American Sport Bike Night at Dick’s Restaurant and Cocktails, 3188 Alvarado Street, San Leandro. Bring your Buell and hang out with like-minded riders. All brands welcome! Our meeting of Buell and Motorcycle enthusiasts has been happening the first Monday of the month for the last 12 years,

without ever missing a meeting. We have had many local and national celebrities from the motorcycle world grace our meetings. It has been fun and exciting. americansportbikenight.net First Wednesday of each month (May 8, June 5) 6:00 pm: Bay Area Moto Guzzi Group monthly dinner at Vahl’s in Alviso (1512 El Dorado Street, Alviso, 410/2620731). Members, interested Guzzi riders, and all other motorcycle riders always welcome. More information, contact Pierre at: 408/710-4886 or [email protected]. Second Tuesday of Each Month (May 14, June 11) 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm: East Bay Ducati Bike Night at Pizza Antica (3600 Mount Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, 925/2990500) Bike parking on the street right in front of the restaurant, indoor and heated outdoor seating, excellent wine list. All moto brands welcome. Bring your appetite and a smile, be prepared to make new friends. Third Wednesday of Each Month (May 15, June 19)

Third Sunday of each month (May 19, June 16): 9:00 am: California (Northern) Moto Guzzi National Owners Club (MGNOC) breakfast at Putah Creek Cafe in picturesque Winters, California (Highways 505/128) MGNOC members and interested Guzzi riders meet for breakfast and a good time. The Putah Creek Cafe is located at Railroad Avenue. More information contact: Northern California MGNOC Rep, Don Van Zandt at 707-557-5199. Evenings: Moto-Sketch at Tosca Cafe: come and sketch a live model draped over a custom bike. $7 to sketch, free to just watch. Tosca Cafe, 242 Columbus Ave. in S.F. Friday, April 26th 10:00 am-4:30 pm: Spyder Demo Tours at California Speed Sports in Livermore (2310 Nissen Drive, Livermore, 925/606-1998, speed-sports.com) Once again California Speed-Sports has been selected for 1 of only 3 stops in Northern California in 2013 for the

The Can-Am demo tour was designed to allow people to try a Can-Am Spyder roadster with the supervision of our experienced staff. California Speed-Sports is the only BRP Platinum Certified Spyder Dealer in the Bay Area and welcomes you to come experience our dealership first hand and judge for yourself. To reserve a time, just go to tinyurl.com/cvh399u and fill out the registration form. Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28 10:00 am to 4:00 pm both days: Dream Machines Show at the Half Moon Bay airport (9850 N. Cabrillo Highway) For a remarkable and singular experience, there’s nothing that matches up to the Pacific Coast Dream Machines Show. It’s a whimsical, fascinating, amusing, curious and absolutely unique show and tell spectacle featuring 2000 magnificent

6:00 pm to 10:00 pm: Emeryville Ducati Bike Night at Hot Italian (5959 Shellmound Street #75, Emeryville, 510/652-9300) A fun, social atmosphere for Ducati owners, folks that want to become Ducati owners, and folks that don’t yet know that they want to become Ducati owners, to sit, eat, talk, walk around and look at other Ducatis. All brands and models of motorcycles are welcome, so please don’t be put off by the event name.

From 3:14 Daily Valencia @ 25th

415-970-9670

7:00 pm: Seca II Meet-up at Lanesplitter in Oakland (4799 Telegraph Ave, 510/653-5350) Luddites who are happy with 20-year-old aircooled tech gather to spend their unemployment checks on important things: pizza and beer. All makes/models are welcome, though the management has requested that we be less rowdy so as not to intimidate the hipsters. Email [email protected] for more info.

Thursday April 25, 7:00 pm Trackday Prep and Race seminar Saturday, April 27, 10:00 am: Tire Change Workshop Sunday April 28th, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance Thurs May 2 5:00 pm Chain & Sprocket Workshop Sunday May 5, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance Thursday, May 9, 6:00 pm: Engine Rebuild Friday, May 10, 5:00 pm: Brakes Workshop Saturday, May 11, 9:00 am: Valve Workshop

Racer Gloves are designed in Austria to be the best fitting gloves you’ll ever buy—or your money back. And we’ll back it up with free shipping both ways. We’re not happy unless you’re happy.

Sunday May 12, 10:00 am: Tire Change Workshop Wednesday, May 15, 5:00 pm: Oil and Coolant Saturday May 18, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance Sunday May 19, 10:00 am: Ducati Valve Adjusting Friday May 24 5:00 pm Chain & Sprocket Workshop Saturday May 25, 10:00 am: Tire Change Workshop Sunday May 26th, 10:00 am Basic Maintenance

Call 408.852.0700 Morgan Hill, CA racerglovesusa / racerglovesusa.com

All motorcycles are welcome for display. Club rides are welcome. The lineup will feature all models, makes and ages from turn-of-the-century Indians to customized modern-day Harleys. You’ll see everything from Ducati, Norton, BMW, Moto Guzzi and more represented. To show a motorcycle, the registration fee is $30 ($40 for entries postmarked after April 15) and includes a commemorative pin and admission for two people.

Wednesday, May 1 to Sunday, May 5

Fri May 3 Noon to Evening: Int. Female Ride Day Event and Party

THE BEST FITTING GLOVES YOU CAN BUY

driving, flying and working machines from the 20th and 21st centuries. The world’s coolest cars of every era and style, model-T fire engines, vintage busses, custom motorcycles, tricked out trucks, sleek streamliners, one-of-a-kind antique engines and tractors and historic military aircraft will be among the mesmerizing displays.

Spectator admission is $20 ($30 for 2-day pass) for adults, $10 ($15 for 2-day pass) for ages 11-17 and 65+, and free for kids age 10 and under. Tickets are available at the gate only. The show benefits the Coastside Adult Day Health Center. For information and registration forms, call 650/726-2328 or miramarevents.com/ dreammachines.

Events at Motoshop: 325 South Maple Ave #20, South San Francisco. 650/239-6686, bayareamotoshop.com

Wednesday, May 29th, 5:00 pm: Brakes Workshop Clinics and classes start at $40.


State Beach to celebrate the life of rider, racer and CityBike contributor Gary Jaehne. Hot-dog lunch after stop at Another reason to visit the 2013 crash site for some memory-sharing. Quail Motorcycle Gathering—the Volunteers needed! If you can help out, special guest speaker will be Wayne contact Marci at 408/426-0696. Thanks Rainey himself. One of his famous to Santa Clara Cycle Accessories for racebikes, the YZR500, will sponsoring this event. accompany the three-time 500cc GP winner and Daytona winner. If BMW Club of Northern California 41st Annual 2013 ‘49er Rally (Mariposa that’s not enough to drag you out Fairgrounds, 5007 Fairgrounds Rd. on a Saturday, Ducati Superbike Mariposa, 209/966-2432) racer Cook Neilson will be on hand, as will a new vintage-style Join us in Mariposa, California, the 250cc racebike, the AVA 250 Swift. gateway to Yosemite, in the Sierra Nevada Plus you get to see hundreds of beautiful Foothills. Includes four nights flat classic motorcycles and chat with their grassy camping and hot showers (early owners, who may pin you to the ground bird camping on or before Wednesday and talk to you for 45 minutes about available--$10 tent / $25 RV per night). nickel plating. Also—there’s a bike corral Poker Run, GS Ride, English Trials, to allow buyers and sellers of classic/ Skills and Safety Clinic, Children Events, interesting/vintage bikes to meet face-toSeminars, CHP Officer Greg Peart, face. Vendors, Bier Garten, Door Prizes. Oh, and the barbecue lunch served at this Featured speakers: Carla King helps celebrate women riders and Rick Klain event (included with the $65 admission talks about cellphone photography. price) has always been pretty good. This Also, Sat. BBQ Dinner with vegetarian really is a classy event, well worth the option (PRE-REGISTERED ONLY). ticket price. Don’t miss it! Rally costs $45 adult / $15 child Saturday, May 11 under 12 years pre-registered, children under 6 admitted free; $55 adult / $20 7:00 pm-10:20 pm: Stockton HalfMile Pro AMA Flat-Track (San Joaquin child under 12 years at the gate. For County Fairgrounds, 1658 South Airport information or registration write: BMW Club of NorCal, 2012 ‘49er Rally, 2540 Way, Stockton) Maywood Dr, San Bruno, CA 94066. New Stockton 99 Dirt Track at the Email: registration49er@yahoo. Fairgrounds will bring a totally different com or check our website for the latest genre of racing to the dirt. The AMA Pro news, info, and online registration at: Flat Track Series will invade our town bmwnorcal.org/49er with their high-powered, two-wheel Thursday, May 30 machines and try to conquer the hardpacked, clay surface at the Fairgrounds. 7:00 pm: An Evening with Rene These are some of the best motorcycle Cormier at Santa Rosa BMW Triumph riders in the world, and they possess some Motorcycles (800 American Way, of the greatest throttle-control anywhere Windsor, 707/ 838-9100, santarosabmw. as they race peg to peg and grip to grip, the com) action never stops. This Event is expected An evening presentation by Rene to fill the Fairgrounds, once again, so it is Cormier; world traveler, and author best to buy your tickets early as they will of “The University of Gravel Roads; a go fast. Mark your calendars and don’t Four-Year Motorcycle Adventure.” Rene miss out on this fantastic, AMA Pro Flat Track Series race when they come to battle will share tales of his travels, discuss his new book, and talk about the adventure in Stockton. motorcycle tours he leads throughout Tickets are on sale at Stockton 99 Africa. Speedway. Contact the Speedway Office at 209/466-9999 or visit stockton99.com. $10 per person. Call or stop by the dealership to pay for your ticket in Saturday, May 18 advance. Space is limited. 10:00 am-6:00 pm: Marin Speed Shop Open House (137 Front Street, San Rafael, 415/456-3345 8205 Valley Greens Drive, Carmel, 831/624-2888, quaillodge.com)

Can-Am Spyder Demo Tour Truck. The BRP demo truck will be bringing plenty of Spyder RS’s, RT’s and the brand new STs available in both manual and semiautomatic transmissions. You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid California drivers license.

Sonomafest 2013! (Sonoma Raceway, Highways 121 and 37, Sonoma. racesonoma.com, 800/870-7223) It kicks off with a 3J’s motorcycle track day, a charity event that gets you six ontrack sessions for $250, a catered lunch, a T-shirt, raffle and evening reception on Wednesday May 1. Proceeds benefit Speedway Children’s Charities. That’s followed by two days of AHRMA vintage racing, always a good show— there are nearly 250 entries in 42 classes, including pre-war, ‘50’s, ‘60s, ‘70s and modern bikes like Twins and Singles. After the oil and shattered crankcases have been cleaned up, there will be two more days of racing in the form of AFM, where 200 racers battle it out in dozens of classes, from 250 Production to Formula Pacific. On the same days, May 4 and 5, Supermoto USA will be sliding and barbanging at the Raceway Karting Center. On Saturday, May 4, our friends at RKA luggage will be leading a scenic ride to the track. The $25 entry fee gets you into the scenic Wine Country cruise and benefits the Speedway Children’s Charities. Saturday, May 4 10:00 am-3:30 pm: Fifth Annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering (Quail Lodge,

Get down and funky with Marin Speed Shop Ducati/Triumph. Check out a display of vintage bikes including a rare ‘74 Ducati 750SS. There will be vendor displays and reps, including Shoei, Arai, Weaver’s Coffee and Triumph. Also: raffle, prize giveaways, and a D.J. spinning Mods and Rockers-themed music. Demo rides and more fun and games—be sure to drop by. Sunday, May 19 11:00 am: Memorial Ride for Gary Jaehne (Skyline Market/Alice’s Restaurant, intersection of Hwys. 35 and 84, Sky Londa) Ride to Pescadero May 2013 | 13 | CityBike.com

Sunday, June 2nd 11:00 am Send-off for Clancy Centennial Ride (Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, watch this space for more details) Join CityBike Chief of the World Adventure Affairs Desk Dr. Gregory W. Frazier record the San Francisco Start of the North American leg of the Clancy Adventure ride commemorating the round-the-world adventures of Carl Clancy and Walter Storey. Dr. Frazier will then join BMW-sponsored riders Geoff Hill, Gary Walker and other globewandering celebrants across the USA and eventually into the bowels of New York City. Check horizonsunlimited.com/ clancy for more details.

2013 Zero S ZF11.7 By Gabe Ets-Hokin Photos by Bob Stokstad

“Really?”

T

hat’s what I said to myself in my helmet as the 2011 Zero S I was riding spent its last electron and coasted silently to a stop, less than 10 miles from where our short press-launch ride loop had started. To be fair, I was in the third wave of journalists riding the bikes that day, and we didn’t start our ride with a full charge...but 10 miles? Fast forward just two years and: “Really?” That’s what I said to myself as my brightyellow 2013 Zero S rolled past yet another exit on highway 24 on the way to Walnut Creek. I had left my house in Oakland earlier that evening, ridden to downtown San Francisco, and then on the way home, wondered how far it would go. The digital “fuel” gauge indicated nine bars of 11 remaining as I approached the CA-24 exit in Oakland, so I shrugged and blasted up the long uphill section to the Caldecott tunnel. I wasn’t going to baby the bike on the way there. I was riding like I ride my personal ride, fast and aggressive, holding

Really? Yes, really. held it at a steady 70 mph, I probably could my position in traffic to stay clear of the drunks, the distracted, the inattentive and have gone 70 miles—two miles past Davis, just 11 miles short of Sacramento. just plain mean that roam the freeways at night. With the “Sport” mode engaged, the Zero has no trouble keeping ahead of most anything else on the road. We passed the Lafayette exit; now the little bars were disappearing every few miles. Number six blinked out of existence just before I passed the “Walnut Creek 3 Miles” sign. Minutes later, the Walnut Creek BART station entrance was in front of the Zero’s bright, clear headlamp. Five bars—less than half of the battery gauge—remained, and range anxiety reared its ugly head. I decided to slow it down, trailing 100 yards behind an obvious drunk driver as he weaved gently along between 55 and 60 mph. Ten miles down the road, I was back at the Caldecott tunnel, facing a long downhill back to Oakland—with three bars remaining, I decided to pin it in Sport mode all the way home. As I waited for my garage door to open, the gauge was blinking the last bar—enough for another 5-10 miles of freeway travel, but 50 miles was more than enough to tell me electric motorcycles may have come of age. Had I

presents 45th annual

2013

909.629.7420

ClassicCycleEvents.com

May

18,

2013

a helmet lock. Wheels are 17-inchers, sized for bias-ply rubber (IRC Road Winners, a 110/70-17 in front and 130/70-17 in back). Simple Nissan brake calipers, two-piston in front and one-pot in back provide braking, and suspension is handled by Taiwanese manufacturer Fast Ace. The inverted 38mm fork offers adjustable rebound and

Zero models, but still about the weight of a 250cc-class sportbike and 83 pounds lighter than the Brammo Empulse R—combined with a new, low and narrow (but comfortable for an hour or two) 31.3-inch seat, means the bike is easy to handle around town. Operation couldn’t get any easier—turn the key, flip the kill switch to ‘run’ and wait for the green light to illuminate on the Koso instrument cluster. Depending on which ride mode you’ve selected—sport or ‘eco,’ the throttle response is either mellow or energetic, but always linear (like an electric motor, ha, ha) and smooth. There is no clutch, and the huge belt-driven rear sprocket seems like a good gearing choice. The instruments are functional, with a tachometer (that has almost no meaning—I stopped noticing it), charge meter, speedometer but no clock.

The 2013 Zero S is is a brand-new motorcycle and a far cry from the crude early-model Zero S we tested just four years ago (“Zero Electric Motorcycle,” June 2009). Almost every component has been touched by the new-stick, from the battery to the frame to the motor. The 2012 models (see “Electric Boogaloo,” April 2012) were heavily refreshed—and offered a lot more range than the 2011 (which offered a lot more range than the 2010, and so on)—but still shared some components with earlier models.

compression damping, and the rear shock is three-way adjustable. The battery and motor are all new. The ‘Z-Force’ brushless electric motor is handsome, with gold-anodized cooling fins, and is also maintenance-free. Zero says it has the windings built into the outside casing for better heat dissipation, which means the added weight of liquidcooling is unnecessary. Zero claims it makes 54 horsepower and 68 ft.-lbs. of torque—that extra power needs more juice, so for 2013 there are two battery options: an 8.5 kilowatt/hour (kwh) pack and a super-sized 11.4 kwh box that costs an extra $2000 but also offers 20 percent or more range. Those numbers, by the way, are maximum capacity—nominal capacities, a more realistic way of talking about battery capacity, are 7.5 and 10 kwh, respectively.

No more. The 19.5-pound aluminum frame is new and makes the motor a stressed member, plus the swingarm is stiffer, and passenger pegs are now standard. The bodywork is all new— lovingly penned by talented industrial designed Matt Bentley—and incorporates a big space behind the steering head (can’t Ready to ride, the Zero S weighs in at call it a “tank” anymore, can we?) for a 355 pounds for the 8.5, 387 for the 11.4. removable soft storage bag, held in place by Those small numbers—heavier than prior

Moto Shop is a 4,000 sq.ft. do-it-yourself shop where you can work on your own motorcycle or bring your bike to a workshop and learn how. We offer the tools and resources to help you fix and maintain your motorcycle. Wednesday - Sunday 10am-7pm 325 South Maple Ave #20 South San Francisco May 2013 | 14 | CityBike.com

www.BayAreaMotoShop.com

As an urban errand-runner, the Zero is tough to beat. No clutch, no gears and a reasonable steering lock means it’s lowimpact and easy to maneuver through tight spaces. Acceleration in either mode is more than ample for light-to-light drag races. On bumpy pavement, the suspension can be wanting; the damping felt overwhelmed and transmitted jolts through the seat. Another nit I can pick is the lack of a locking trunk like Honda’s NC700X—the soft bag is spacious and handy (although it won’t fit a helmet) but not secure. An accessory rack with Givi trunk ($600) is available. Take it to a winding two-lane road and you can see the value of going electric. Roll on and off the throttle and focus on your lines through the turn—no need to worry about shifting or throttle response. Both Sport and Eco mode offer engine braking— obviously, you get a lot more from Eco— which makes the experience feel familiar to those of us raised on four-stroke sportbikes.

you tune the modes from your smart phone? These bikes pair via Bluetooth with a smart phone, and the Zero app offers lots of functionality (download it and check it out at the App Store or on Google Play), including the ability to adjust top speed and regenerative braking in eco mode. You can also customize the display to show all kinds of data, including distance to empty, battery temperature, current draw, torque and yes, a clock. Zero provided me with a handy X-Grip mount from RAM that held my iPhone 5 securely in place, despite the jarring from the firm suspension. How fast will it go? The Zero S does indeed rocket up to an the surprisingly good IRCs. The aggressive exactly what Zero claims. On another indicated 95 mph top speed, steering geometry—short wheelbase, steep journey I held the speed constant between 91 mph on my iPhone’s GPS app. Hold the 55 and 60 mph and went 38 miles on 40 rake—light weight and narrow bias-plies throttle wide open too long and a “water percent of the bike’s charge—with some makes the bike easy and fun to pilot, and temp” icon warning lights up, but Zero says practice, 100 miles at (slow) freeway speeds that’s normal, part of the safety protocols I was again surprised about the grip these may be possible. Riding like grandma on tires (the same as the Ninja 300’s) offer. and doesn’t Librium is no indicate Still, it’s not an electric GSX-R, but what fun, true—but battery or I think of as the Zero’s competition— knowing you motor damage. middleweight Twins like Suzuki’s SFV650 have that kind That will also or Honda’s NC700X—don’t offer MotoGP of range makes discharge your suspension and brakes either. It’s useable shorter trips a battery at a on the open road, fun to ride around town, lot more fun, as dizzying rate. even more fun in the twisties and easy to you can waste But Lord, is operate. What you want to know is how battery power that fun, and economical it is, how far it will go, how with quick Harden tells fast you can ride it and how long it takes to acceleration me different charge. and higher gearing (or speeds worry a higherThe 2013 Zero S doesn’t need many capacity excuses in those departments. The ZF11.4, free. Sevcon controller) could get the speed even when ridden at a steady speed in the Eco Many motorcycles now offer on-the-fly higher. mode, can carry a 140-pound rider around mapping adjustments, but how many let 70 miles at a steady 70 miles per hour,

The brakes are much better than prior iterations of the Zero S. They won’t win any awards, and notably lack ABS—a big ding against a product best-suited for commuting fixed distances on busy highways and byways. (Why no ABS, I asked Scot Harden, Zero’s VP for PR. Cost, he said: $600,000 or more to tool up for it. But he said it will be mandatory by 2016, so the company is working on it.) But the bike is fairly light, so there’s a surprising amount of feel, bite and power from the front binder, though I was happiest using a four-finger squeeze. The rear was weak, surprising given the S’ supermoto DNA. The suspension is also a limitation, but I’ve ridden much worse. Fast Ace is primarily a supplier for mountain bikes and mini-motos, but a lot of thought and development went into developing it for this application, so it’s better than it sounds. The other limitation may be the comfortably low footpegs, which can drag if you’re really aggressive, a possibility with May 2013 | 15 | CityBike.com

Here’s what I know about charging—it’s easy. Pull into the garage, switch off the key, plug the cord into the little socket, and you’re done. After a few times you don’t even think about it. A little light on the dash flashes until it’s charged. Every morning, when you open your garage, the bike will be fully charged and ready. Cut the time in half for every $750 quick charger you install, up to three—you can get it down to about two hours. Does your motorcycle fill itself with gas every time you park it in your garage? Turns out I live in a gas station with a (semi) clean bathroom, which is as convenient as it sounds.

A new approach to rider training

Out and about, charging is a little more complex. Pull up to a public charge station and there’s nowhere for you to plug in that distinctive J1772 pistol-grip, unless you opted for the $400 optional socket. These stations will charge you up from dead in about 4 hours, although you can speed things up by plugging into the 110 outlet as well. If you’re at an elusive CHAdeMO stations (this is changing—expect 4000 CHAdeMO stations in the USA by the end of 2014) and you splurged on the $1800 accessory, you could be on your way in under an hour with a 95 percent charge. How much? A lot. The Zero S rings in at $13,995 for the ZF8.5, $15,995 for the 11.4 I rode. In California, state and federal tax credits pay you back about $2400, but you’re still looking at a premium of about $6000 if you figure (like I do) that the Zero offers performance pretty equal to a 650 Twin like the Honda NC700X or

Street

beginner through advanced

Mechanical

oil changes to engine rebuilds

Now Open! 415-294-5005 www.motorcycleuniversity.net

Suzuki SFV650, at least in the parts of the powerband where we spend most of our time. You can see that difference two ways: a guilt tax paid only by nerds and econuts or a pre-payment of fuel costs for a dedicated moto-commuter who knows his or her commute will be the same distance every day.

KYMCOUSA.com

Be a fan: facebook.com/KYMCO.scooters

Be a fan: facebook.com/KYMCO.ATV

Follow Us: twitter.com/kymco_usa

The Zero S (and by extension, the Zero DS, which is similar, except with shorter gearing, more suspension travel and a 19-inch front wheel) is now a mature product that doesn’t need a lot of excuses. It’s a functional solution for the roughly 185,000 Americans who commute by motorcycle but travel less than 30 minutes each way.* It’s also really fun to ride, with a character and user-friendliness you won’t find in a gas motorcycle. Harden told me there won’t be any big leaps in range, speed or charge times in the near future, which removes yet another excuse for not getting one. The electric motorcycle, represented by the 2013 Zero S I rode, has arrived—really. It’s not perfect, or right for everybody, and it won’t replace the fleet of gas-powered bikes in your garage. But it’s great at what it does, is fun to ride and worth a second look. Really. *The U.S.Census reported 294,000 Americans commute by motorcycle, and that about 34 percent of all commuters travel more than 30 minutes each way. I don’t know if the numbers correlate perfectly, so 185,000 may be optimistic, but more likely is conservative, as I would guess motorcyclists on average have shorter commutes than our carenclosed brethren.

FOR 36 MONTHS FOR % QUALIFIED BUYERS APR

*AS LOW AS

1.9

SEE YOUR LOCAL KYMCO DEALER FOR DETAILS

PAYMENTS AS LOW AS $59/Month

Choose Your Own Path

R&M ENTERPRISES 1905C ARNOLD INDUSTRIAL WAY CONCORD, CA 94520 925-798-4360

CYCLE WEST 1375 INDUSTRIAL AVENUE PETALUMA, CA 94952 707-769-5242

SAN JOSE MOTORSPORT 1886 WEST SAN CARLOS ST SAN JOSE, CA 95128 408-295-0205

IL MOTORINO 2650 RESEARCH PARK DRIVE SOQUEL, CA 95073 831-479-9075

CALIFORNIA SPEED SPORTS 2310 NISSEN DRIVE LIVERMORE, CA 94551 925-606-1998

SCOOTER CITY 614 16TH STREET SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 916-448-6422

VERACOM MITSUBISHI 790 NORTH SAN MATEO DR SAN MATEO, CA 94401 650-340-7199

TRACY MOTORSPORTS 3255 AUTO PLAZA WAY TRACY, CA 95304 209-832-3400

ROCKRIDGE TWO WHEELS 5291 COLLEGE AVENUE OAKLAND, CA 94618 510-594-0789

SCUDERIA WEST 69 DUBOCE STREET SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103 415-621-7223

REVOLUTION MOTO 307 D STREET SANTA ROSA, CA 95404 707-523-2371

POWERSPORTS OF VALLEJO 111 TENNESSEE STREET VALLEJO, CA 94590 707-644-3756

1.9% for 36 Months [3.53% APR*] *Example: On a purchase where the Amount Financed is $1,999 your Down Payment is $0 with 36 monthly payments of $58.60 each. Interest Rate is 1.9% [ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE is 3.53% (E)]. For other Amounts Financed, the payment would be approximately $30.03 per $1,000 financed. $0 DOWN 1.9% INTEREST RATE $30.03 PER $1,000 FINANCED Note: The above financing programs are offered by Sheffield Financial, a Division of Branch Banking and Trust Company, Member FDIC. Subject to credit approval. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other financing offers are available. See your local dealer for details. Rate advertised is based on debt to income ratio of 45% or less. Minimum Amount Financed $1,500; Maximum Amount Financed $50,000. Other qualifications and restrictions may apply. An origination fee of $50 will be added to the amount financed in the above example. Financing promotions void where prohibited. Offer effective on all new and unused KYMCO ATVs, Side X Sides, Motorcycles and Scooters purchased from a participating KYMCO USA dealer between now and 6/30/2013. Offer subject to change without notice. [“E” means estimate.] © KYMCOUSA 2013 KYMCO vehicles meet all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety and EPA standards. Take a riding skills course. For the course nearest you, call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 1-800-446-9227. For your safety, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Avoid excessive speed and stunt driving.


May 2013 | 17 | CityBike.com KYMCO USA Ad...............KYMCO Scooter - CityBike MAY 2013 Color..................................1-Color Size ...................................10.25 x 14

Exclusive First Ride: RedShift BRD Supermoto By Gabe Ets-Hokin, photos by Alan Lapp, stunt-doubling by Peter Mars

Marc Fenigstein, the passionate CEO of San Francisco’s BRD Motorcycles, isn’t one of these wild-eyed futurists (like me) who predicts the demise of the gas engine in 10 years. He admits that for many applications, the internal-combustion motor is just better. “To move a bike at 150 mph for an hour you need gasoline.” But take aim at specific niches and that changes—for instance, the kind of motorcycling we love to do as CityBike readers, bombing around the twisty, bumpy, tight quarters of San Francisco, or terrorizing a kart track with a dozen likeminded idiots. You don’t need to go 150 in those situations. Fifty is thrilling enough and 70 feels like Armageddon.

Electric slider then get ridden to work on Monday. It’s the result of an ongoing three-year quest to produce a home-grown production electric motorcycle, a priceless prototype

representing many thousands of development hours and VC dollars—and we were invited to ride it around town. This is no tarted-up electric bicycle with chintzy components. It’s a hardcore competition machine dreamed up when the four-stroke 250 motocross class came into being, according to Chief Technical Officer Derek Dorresteyn. That means top-notch everything: rigid aluminum motocrosser chassis (the development team used current 250-class motocross machines as their benchmark), racespec suspension (with assistance from local suspension-tuning guru Super Plush), top-shelf Brembo brakes—it’s

That’s where BRD’s creation, the $15,495 RedShift SM may be a game-changer. It’s a full-fledged racebike, designed to dominate in the 250 classes on Sunday—and

the real deal, and riders report reduced lap times compared to gas-powered bikes with similar power-to-weight ratios (40 horsepower pushing 250 From left to right: Derek Dorresteyn, Chief Technical Officer, Chris Blain, Senior Design Engineer, Rob Sweney, pounds in race trim), thanks to Senior Mechanical Engineer, David Drennan, Lead Mechanical Engineer, Jeff Sand, Chief Design Officer and the ease of use provided by the crash-test dummy Peter Mars in BRD’s top-secret design lab. smooth powerband and lack of shifting.

could easily handle that. So why not give it more range? Weight, said Fenigstein; 5.2 kwh is enough for several sessions on the supermoto track, or 30-60 miles of spirited city riding. The BRD batteries are the most energy-dense on the market, but still weigh over 60 pounds—getting to Zero-ish ranges would also result in a bike well over 300 pounds, disappointing the design brief. After reading the riot act on motojournalist antics—”this is a priceless prototype”— Fenigstein made sure we understood that not only is the bike a development mule (which is why we didn’t take any close-up action shots of the bike), with work-inprogress throttle response and other rough edges—it’s a racebike, not a newbiefriendly commuter. So I took off from the BRD’s Potrero-Hill headquarters with some trepidation. I need not have worried. The throttle is sensitive and responsive, as are the brakes, but it’s not as terrifying as, say, a CR500, which I’ve ridden in supermoto guise. It was actually tractable and pleasant, with the exception of having explosive acceleration and brick-wall brakes that probably won’t suffer fools. The Super Plush suspension was...super plush, but

controlled, and the handling up Twin Peaks was as effortless and fast as you’d expect—just like a well-sorted supermoto should be. Freeway cruising wasn’t as pleasant—it topped out around 75 mph (because of gearing).

CityBike Test: 2013 Hyosung GT-R 250 By Gabe Ets-Hokin and Alan Lapp photos by Alan Lapp

Gabe Ets-Hokin: Mouse in a lion suit

W

hat’s the best first bike?

Jaehne tested its naked sister some time ago (“Korean Conflict,” April 2010) .

Yep, the Ninja 300 If your life is like mine, you presents a high bar, get asked that a lot. I think it’s so it’s unfair to make actually not a very good question, as there a direct comparison. are a lot of unknowns in it. Best first bike But pit it against the for whom? For what? What will you do Honda or the priorwith it? How much money do you want gen Ninja—2012 to spend? How tall are you? Do you enjoy or older—and the being terrified? And so on. Hyosung isn’t looking too bad. The big If you’ve never ridden a motorcycle before, tube-steel frame looks an appropriate-sized learner bike should suspiciously like a be your first moto-purchase. Motorcycles Suzuki GS500E’s are like shoes—you buy what fits you (not a bad thing—the now, not what you’ll “grow into” six or 12 GS500 is a pretty months in the future. If you’re an averagegood-handling ride), sized person, small, lightweight bikes but it offers lots of like the CBR250R or Ninja 250R can be room between the good choices if you are already confident wheels—the 56.5with basic operation of a motorcycle. But inch wheelbase is a though I’m a small person (albeit, as the full inch longer than a song says, Big in Japan), Americans are Honda CBR1000RR, large people, and if you want to avoid being for instance—and the the proverbial monkey humping a football, tall seat, almost 33 inches off the ground, you’ll want a bike with a small engine but will offer nice legroom for the long-oflarge physical size. leg, panicky moments for the shorties. At A dual-sport is a good choice here, but what 5-foot-7, I could mostly get my feet flat on the ground, but calling this 416-pound if you crave the sportbike riding position bike (3 pounds lighter than a GSX-R750) and look? There’s really only one choice, and you may be surprised it’s been with us a “little” 250 indicates a conditional for a long time in the form of the Hyosung understanding of that word. GT250R. The chassis is finished with some The GT250 platform has been in the USA surprisingly nice touches for a $4099 from almost the start, but it has been slowly motorcycle. The bodywork’s styling is fresh enough to get improved and upgraded over the years. The full-faired GT250R joined the lineup, admiring glances, there are decent passenger then fuel-injection came in 2010. It’s been accommodations pretty much the same for a while, and it’s and a been even more eclipsed by the wildly enthusiastic response to the Kawasaki Ninja 300R. So we’re just getting around to checking it out, though the late and great Gary

4.5-gallon gas tank (which means you might sell the bike before you run it out of gas), and the digital dash, though hard to see sometimes in the daylight, offers adjustable backlighting. The mirrors are broad and give good visibility. The forks are large inverted units—the only bike in the class so equipped—but offer no adjustability. Rear shock has no damping adjustment, but does have a threaded adjuster for preload and works through a linkage. Tires are Shinko, in large-ish 110/70-17 and 150/7017 sizes, and brakes are dual disc in front, with wooden-

So—not a freeway commuter. To appreciate this bike, you have to enjoy the fast-paced, madcap riding style S.F. motorcyclists practice: blasting through construction The bike’s price may induce sticker shock in a Top-Ramen-eating racer, but pull back zones, crossing over sidewalks, squeezing in between impossibly tiny gaps in traffic, and look at the whole picture. A 250-class wheelieing and speeding everywhere, motocrosser or supermoto needs a lot getting big air on the crests of the City’s of maintenance. Not as much as a twomany steep hills. All these things, are, of stroker, but a lot. Pistons, crankshafts, course, ill-advised and illegal (even if you clutches, they all wear out quickly under don’t get caught), but that doesn’t mean we the strains of competition and can eat up the $8000-ish price difference quicker than don’t practice them from time to time. We’re only human, after all. you’d think, especially if you’re making every event. Oh, yeah, and gas costs money The BRD Redshift would be an ideal too—and race thumpers eat a lot of it. partner in crime for the well-heeled urban motorcyclist—as well as a fun, Our plan for the test ride was to do some competitive tool for the supermoto track. freeway riding, cruise up to Twin Peaks, Will enough well-heeled buyers agree then work our way down to Pier 30 for photos. No problem, said Fenigstein—the when the first bikes start rolling off the production lines? bike’s 5.2 kilowatt-hour (kwh) battery



feeling TCIC (Tae Chung Industrial Corporation, in case you play with the “Korean Heavy Industry Superstars” set of Trivial Pursuit cards) two-piston calipers that Al reports “make an entertaining sound when you use them.” The engine is a serviceable item that seems intended for a third-world audience despite some sophisticated touches. It’s a dual overhead cam 249cc air/oil cooled Twin, with an oversquare bore, fuel-injection and four valves per cylinder. It’s got a pretty mellow compression ratio—10.2:1, and the exhaust headers are garden-hose small. This means the motor feels like it’s not breathing as well as it could, and the dyno numbers bear this out—other publications report around 22-25 horsepower on the dyno. It’s slowrevving and not as smooth as a more modern liquid-cooled design might be, but it’s enough power to move the

and the shift lever throw is very long, making the shifting seem slow and notchy. That’s a pretty short list, two of which are very easily fixed. The unexpected turn to the conversation came when we started discussing…racing. Yes, racing. Both Gabe and I are former racers, and it’s a touchstone for us. The local racing organization, AFM, has two classes which this bike is eligible, 250 Production, and more interesting, 250 Superbike. The Ninja 250/300 is the dominant force in these classes. We discussed what it would take to make this bike into a competitive tool for Ninja beating.

bike ahead of car traffic, offers a flexible powerband that’s easy to use and is good for a top speed well into the 90s. Actually, “nineties” is a good word to describe the GT250R. The riding position, big humped tank and general feel of the bike is Japan, Inc. c. 1994—and that’s a good thing, I think. The adjustable footpegs (nice touch!) and low clip-ons are classic Japanese sportbike, as are the chassis numbers. This makes the motorcycle feel stable in turns, with steering that’s high-effort for such a small bike. Suspension is surprisingly well sorted, even for me at 140 pounds and Big Al at...well, let’s just say at a lot more. I did experience some jarring from the back end, but I didn’t adjust the preload, and the forks are probably easily tuneable with $20 of fork oil and some spring selection. The tires seemed grippy enough, but are an unknown quantity and damped my enthusiasm for pushing it on cold winter rides.

represents a solid (but not great) value at $4099. I’d strongly recommend it to bigger riders looking for a sportbike that looks cool but is forgiving and suitable for learning—or somebody looking for a fun and frugal everyday commuter (you may want to also consider the naked GT250, which has an upright handlebar and $3799 MSRP). I really enjoyed my time on the Hyosung and am eager to try out the $5599 GT650.

Alan Lapp: The amazing little big bike.

the size of a full-sized bike, the seat height isn’t especially low, which removes it from consideration for the inseam challenged). The GT-R doesn’t do anything surprising: it’s absurdly stable, has good-but-not-toogood brakes, the chassis goes where you point it with no drama, and the motor is tame and predictable. It’s a sane, fun, unintimidating little bike, and that’s a good thing.

The obvious shortcoming is the motor. It doesn’t rev very quickly, which is indicative that there is an air-flow restriction. It could be something as simple as a restrictor plate at the airbox intake, or under-sized exhaust. We believe that any competent tuner could find some more power in this motor. The OEM tires are a high-mileage compound, but in a fairly common size supported by race-tire manufacturers (Pilot Powers, for instance). Rubber brake lines are easily replaced with more-rigid braided-steel lines (though brake pads might be a problem). The upside-down forks could be sprung and valved, and a rear shock could be sourced from a builder that does custom work, such as RaceTech or Works (I suspect an older Japanese sportbike model may use a similar shock—ed.). Reducing weight would necessarily be another important step toward achieving a light, fun little race platform, but this bike has a lot of heavy-looking stuff attached to it.

Seriously, when was the last time anyone The GT-R is not perfect, however: the got exited about the idea of taking a $4099 Gabe and I were talking about the GT250R beginner-friendly slow-pull throttle (the bike racing? Getting two ex-racers to see while I was shooting photos. We were both opposite of a quick-pull) makes it wristthis kind of potential in an entry-level breakingly difficult to reach full throttle, in agreement about the chassis stability: product is a real achievement for Hyosung. Not that 25-ish hp can push 420-ish the LED instrument panel goes completely Bench racing aside, it’s a very user-friendly there is lots of it, perhaps too much. Our pounds very fast. It’s a lot like riding an black when polarized sunglasses are used, bike which runs well and looks great. old GSX-R with three missing sparkplugs. opinions coincided that the steering and turn-in are very heavy, which is emblematic On the freeway, it’s tolerable, and the bike of lots of stability-inducing trail. We actually isn’t too bad cruising at 80 mph. RACIng & REPAIR concur about the engine: it’s adequate and Last Century’s Tire Change Prices With enough downshifts and some rider SInCE 1994 manages highway speeds. The dual-frontchutzpah, you can pass cars at freeway speeds, and the wind protection and decent disc brakes fell into the same category: 4 days of AHRMA & AFM Racing at Sonoma Raceway! seat—coupled with observed fuel economy surprisingly good for this category, albeit a bit noisy, which will probably go away when around 60 mpg (Hyosung claims 78 the disc surface breaks in. mpg)—will let you ride all day. For sport rides, the low motor output is perfect for Our like-mindedness extended to student sportbikers—you learn to work high praise for the appearance: it’s a the five-speed gearbox, how to conserve handsome bike. Our solidarity included corner speed and to really ride, rather than ergonomics—it feels a lot bigger than Werkstatt Motorcycles just point-and-shooting like your big-bike what is usually offered in the 250 class. Meet our sponsored riders, mounted friends. Sure, they may leave you My sole dissenting observation is that the check out their race bikes, behind—far, far behind—in the straights, rear shock is severely under-damped, but I plus FREE BBQ, Beer & RaffIe! but you can take solace in the fact that your weigh just under two Gabes. bike is actually teaching you something. In short, we were almost completely in Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am - 6 pm With a limited two-year warranty (the 415-552-8115 | werkstattsf.com harmony that this is an outstanding bike second year is parts only), the GT250R 3248 17th Street San Francisco, CA 94110 for some beginning riders (because it’s

First Ride: 2014 Star Bolt By Gabe Ets-Hokin, Photos by Brian J. Nelson and Tom Riles

E

very motorcycle begins with a goal. The goal of the 2014 Star Bolt was to create a product that would appeal to a new generation of cruiser riders. Younger buyers are less affluent than their Baby-boom forbearers, but they’re also looking for a simpler, more stripped-down aesthetic. Hipsters, for instance (and I’m not saying Bolt buyers will be hipsters, but

of modification you can imagine, from bobber to flat-tracker to cafe-racer and every possible interpretation in between.

Sadly, a retro big-bore air-cooled parallel Twin was never in the cards (I asked Project Leader Ooki Miyakozawa about that, and he just looked at me blankly). Instead, the design team started with the Star 950 V-Star’s four-valve, dohc, 942cc (58 cubic inch) air-cooled 60-degree V-Twin. The bore and stroke numbers are slightly oversquare at 85mm X 83mm, and it has I’m Just Sayin’) “fetishize authenticity,” other hi-perf touches, like forged according to Time Out New York writer aluminum pistons and ceramic Christian Lorentzen. That means younger buyers want a more authentic experience— cylinder liners. “We do what we can to improve or at least look like they’re riding the real performance,” deal, something they found and rebuilt explained to themselves—even if they can’t afford a Yamaha testing chrome-dripping $30,000 custom sled. division guru Mike These new buyers are anti-establishment Ulrich. That said, and want to ride something that’s simple, there’s but one stripped-down—but unique. “They don’t throttle body, want to follow fad or fashion—they want to although it be their own person,” said Yamaha Product does use dual Planner Derek Brooks. Showing us slides 35mm charting Star motorcycle’s branding strategies, there were lots of XS650 photos and references, a low-slung, torquey, vibey and thoroughly imperfect motorcycle that has lots of fans and has been subjected to every kind

injectors, working with a Mikuni system offering 3-D ignition mapping. The catalyzed exhaust system’s headers are forward-routed, which means the big bazooka of a muffler doesn’t stick too far to the rear. Usability is the word for the motor. The gearbox uses five straight-cut gears for easy shifting, and it’s worked with a “light-pull” clutch to make it attractive to new riders. A 21mm reinforced belt looks nice and sends power quietly and efficiently to the rear wheel. The valves adjust with screws on the tappets, good news for budding do-ityourself mechanics—and they’ll get plenty of practice, with 4000-mile valve-check intervals. The frame is all-new but familiar-looking nonetheless. It’s a rigid tube-steel item that solid-mounts the motor. Suspension is similarly simple, but Ulrich tells us the spring and damping rates have been carefully selected to get both a “high-

COME CELEBRATE Race Party!


The rest of the bike is a mix of minimalistic nostalgia and high-tech touches. The fenders are steel, the solo saddle is low and thin (just 27.2 inches off the ground to deliver “showroom confidence,” Brooks says) and there are no passenger pegs (although they’re available as a kit with a p-pad). But there is an LCD speedometer, LED taillight and a multi-function switch on the left switchpod to toggle through the odometers and clock. Okay, I’ll come right out and say it, since everybody’s thinking it—the Bolt’s styling is a clear shot across Harley-Davidson’s bow, with styling clearly derivative of the 883 Iron. From the exposed frame backbone to the engine’s hulking look to the clever plastic covers over the cylinder heads to make them look like MoCo items, Star really nailed the look...until you get to that tank, or more specifically, the huge seams around that pressed-steel component. Ooki-san looked sad when I pointed out the seams, but what can you do? Harley just has a different way of doing things. To create the necessary spaces between bodywork and various components and get the tank the right width to achieve that narrow, purposeful look, you’re going have a more-prominent seam, especially if you want to keep the price point down below $8000. I was surprised an accessory tank isn’t available. At least it carries a useful 3.2 gallons of gas, and if you ignore the seams the bike has a very appealing, well-proportioned and balanced design that certainly grabbed your attention—that’s why you’re reading this, no? The Bolt promises an authentic riding experience—and it delivers.

Photo by: Kevin Hipp

Friday, May 3rd

5:30-9pm

quality feel and get a low look”—the preload-adjustable rear shocks offer just 2.8 inches of travel. The R-Spec’s reservoirequipped gold-anodized units don’t just look better, they have different internal damping, though the springs are the same. The non-adjustable 41mm KYB fork locates a 19-inch aluminum wheel slowed by a 298mm wave-style disc/two-piston sliding-pin caliper. The 16-inch rear wheel gets the same disc and a one-pot caliper. Tires are Bridgestone Excedras, a 100/9019 and 150/80-16.


Have a Seat Gabe Ets-Hokin, photos provided by manufacturers

Dress it up: Apehangers and leather saddlebags are in the Star accessory catalog.

There’s just enough lub-a-dub vibration, but the motor isn’t too buzzy until you’re breaking the law. The exhaust note is loud enough to hear at freeway speeds, and it’s got just the right roar. The rigid frame, 19-inch front wheel and shortish 61.8-inch wheelbase offer up a mix of predictable steering and high-speed

stability not unlike a nicely set-up vintage ride. It’s engaging in a way other metric cruisers can’t manage, but it’s still easy and comfortable to ride. It’s no beginnerfriendly lightweight at 540 pounds, but that’s 33 pounds lighter than an 883 and 73 pounds less than the V Star 950 from

whence the motor came. And the weight is low in the frame, so you mix that with the good steering lock, narrow bars and low seat, and around-town confidence is great. The brakes, simple as the specs are, work very well, and the front fork offers similar utility. The rear shocks bottom out on extreme bumps, but the damping

34th Anniversary Sale!! 20% to 50% off stock items, excluding Forcefield Armour.

May 1st - May 31st

We stock a large selection of heavy duty jackets , pants, chaps, & bags. Custom garments and accessories. We repair, alter and clean leather products. Our leathers are guaranteed against defect for life.

1833 Polk St. (@ Jackson) San Francisco - johnsonleather.com

(800) 730-7722 • (415) 775-7393

We make custom 1 & 2 piece leathers!

Forcefield Body Armour, The worlds leading “Soft armour technology” Body protection system specialists.

soothes the experience enough to make it less miserable than it could be, and the R-Spec dampers make it noticeably better still. And the buttery-soft clutch works well with the slick-shifting gearbox—a gearbox that is somehow engineered with just enough throw and resistance to feel like a vintage machine. On the open road, the Bolt’s capabilities are limited—but it’s still pleasant to ride. The seating position is pure Sportster, with the high flat-track bar and midmounted pegs that put the rider into a weird, hunched-over crouch. I started to feel (and probably look) like Quasimodo after a while, but a couple hours in the saddle won’t ruin your day. The buzzing and windblast over 80 mph might, so keeping it in that sweet spot around 75 is heartily recommended, even if the bike will break into triple digits just smoothly rolling on the throttle in fifth gear. Some other niggles I noticed: even on a 70-degree day in breezy San Diego, the shielded header was still uncomfortably hot on my right calf, and I felt some FI stumbles at low RPM. Some of the plastic bits and exposed wiring look schlocky, and the big Electrolux of an exhaust can won’t be hanging in the Museum of Industrial Art any time soon. The digital speedometer, while almost invisible in direct sunlight thanks to its cool tinted glass cover, at least seemed pretty accurate. Long paragraph, I know, but that’s a short list for a bike in this price range. Who’s going to buy the Bolt? Nobody who wants a Sportster, probably. But at $7990 ($9 less than the aforementioned 883 Iron), or $8290 for the R-Spec (which includes blacked-out mirrors and color-matched stitching on the saddle), the Bolt is a great platform for customizing (the accessories we saw were pretty unique for a Japanese factory, including some stylish ape-hanger bars and brass—yes, brass!—headlight bezels) or riders who want something that while not exactly authentically cool, is arguably a cool-looking and inarguably a fun-to-ride motorcycle that gets pretty close to the bare, minimalist ethos the targeted buyers want.


Two ways to bolt on comfort

You can group the problems with motorcycle seats into two categories. The first is the foam. It’s usually too soft, too thin, too hard or a paradoxical combination of all three. The other problem is shape. The seats are often shaped by designers, who are more concerned with keeping the bike’s flowing lines intact than a rider’s rump comfy. As a result, the seats slope their riders down into the tank (which reminds me of a joke I read in CityBike many years ago—how is a bad motorcycle seat like a cheap hotel? No ballroom! Bah-rump-pump!), lock them into one position, or what to expect: put too much pressure on any given point. Any one of those can be worse perfect, easy fit (the latch is than hard or thin foam. pre-installed So what to do? Luckily, there are suppliers and it fit to of aftermarket seats, simple, drop-in the bike) firm, solutions that can not only save your ass, supportive foam har, har, but can add a dash of style and that feels hard even extra comfort features. I had a chance at first and then to test two of the best-known names on my gently molds 2010 Triumph Street Triple R, which isn’t to your tush. equipped with the worst seat, but like most There are no moto-mounts, is only good for an hour or hot spots, no sharp feeling along your two before the butt-hurt creeps in. Let’s see thigh, and though the initial comfort how much better the aftermarket can do. level is somewhat less than a stock saddle, after an hour it’s exactly as comfortable Corbin as when you first got on—and it doesn’t Corbin has been a well-known name in change much from there. And since the aftermarket saddles since AMA Hall-of- foam doesn’t break down, you’re likely Famer Mike Corbin started making them to have the seat until the vinyl or leather full time in 1968. Corbin’s career has rips with little degradation in comfort. been controversial—recall the Sparrow Another advantage of the Corbin design electric three-wheeler of the late ‘90s— is its broad, supportive design, made but his brilliance isn’t: Corbin and his possible by the stiff, heavy Fibertech seat company hold more than 70 patents, pan. It does add weight to the bike (as well including three for the “Comfort Cell” as a touch of seat height, which can be foam used in the seats. customized for us shorties), but it fits as You can get a Corbin seat two ways. nicely (nicer, says the company) as stock The easiest is to just get on the phone and makes the seat wider, longer and cups (800/538-7035) or internet (corbin.com) your buns nicely. and order a ready-made or custom seat. I’m very happy with the seat and know I The company makes seats for hundreds of sport, standard, cruiser, touring, dual-sport could ride for many, many miles before needing a break. However, I’m not a fan and other machines, and you can specify different colors and types of vinyl, leather, stitching, welting, covers and accessories like removable backrests (for rider and passenger) or clever built-in storage compartments.

of the tuck-nroll stitching that makes my formerly thuggy-looking streetfighter look like a refugee from Sturgis—or Great Grandma Minnie’s dinette set. Corbin says the stitching is necessary because of the seat’s broad shape—the cover will bunch up and look funny otherwise. The seat can’t be equipped with a backrest—not enough meat on its bones—but does support the Triumph accessory solo cover.

Sargent offers a lightweight basepan made with its “CarbonTec” plastic/polymer alloy. It’s remarkably light—much lighter than the Corbin, and isn’t as flexible or cheap feeling as the stock Triumph pan. It’s also ready for the solo cowl, and you can specify custom trim colors and cover materials. Also of interest—Sargent’s “Fine Wire” heated seat upgrade ($200 for both seats, $150 for just the rider, also available as a do-it-yourself kit for $180), a one-millimeter-thick pad that sits under the cover and roasts your buns up to 125 degrees, if you need that. The seat I received for my Street Triple ($410, $610 with heat, additional for custom welts, fabrics, etc.) was beautifully finished and as light as I expected, even with the heating pad pre-installed. It went in and fit as easily as the Corbin. The seating position isn’t as spacious, but it’s better than other Sargent’s seats I’ve owned (and also customizable). The “Atomic Foam” is dense, yet comfortable, similar to Corbin’s product, although it doesn’t seem to take as many miles to break in. It also sits a half inch lower than stock, where the Corbin adds a little height.

The heated seat is a fine thing. It wires into the battery with an included harness (with a switched wire to prevent killing your battery when the ignition is off) and draws just two amps. The 10-position controller At $419, including leather seating panels, unit can be mounted anywhere on the bike the Corbin seat is a good value—especially (I put mine on my left switchpod), uses an considering everything but the covering is easy-to-use pair of up and down buttons warranted for the original owner for life. that are easily worked with gloved hands, The rumble-seat style cover is irritating, but and remembers the heat setting when you only visually—you can’t see it when you’re switch it off. The pad heats up quickly and riding, and we all know that’s what matters. is one of those “why didn’t I have this 10 years ago” kinds of things.

Sargent

Corbin’s just a young pup compared to Sargent’s 80-year history. Started in 1935 as an auto upholsterer, the Florida company has been re-covering motorcycle seats since the early 1990s. In 1996, the company spun off as a separate entity offering the World Sport Performance Seat.

The other way to get a Corbin is to...go to Corbin. The 82,000 square-foot factory, nestled among the artichoke fields of Hollister, offers a comfortable hang-out area where you can sit and read back issues of CityBike while you wait for your seat to be made from your exact measurements. A technician even looks at you on your bike, and then brings the pan and foam back out several times until you’re happy with the fit and feel. After that, they cover and stitch the seat. I opted for the ready-made one. I’ve had Corbin saddles before, so I knew May 2013 | 23 | CityBike.com

You can check out the over 80 models of motorcycles Sargent’s makes ready-made seats for (many more cruiser models are served by Sargent’s Mustang division) or check out the custom seat program if your ride is too old or weird at sargentcycle.com. You can also call 800/749-7328.

One More Chance...

dr. gregory w. FRAZIER

T

he bragging rights were being claimed by a group of five foreign riders who cybershouted they were the first to ride big motorcycles into Burma in December of 2012. Their claim piqued my interest. Burma, also known as Myanmar, had long been a difficult country to enter on paved roads by motorcycle. Difficult, but not impossible. For those wanting to check Burma off their ultimate motorcycling adventure riding bucket list, a day pass allowed riders, on any displacement motorcycle, to exit Thailand at Mae Sai and enter Burma at Tachileik, and then ride around the area for a few kilometers. Another option was to enter Burma riding off-pavement into the Shan State from Thailand north of Mae Hong Son, an option a Chiang Mai based adventurist had done on several occasions in 2011 and 2012. When I heard that barriers to entry had been cracked by the group of five claiming to be the first my initial thought was to wonder how much

it had cost to be the first; specifically, what kind of money had been palmed by various government officials to grease the entry? As a number of around $1500 per person surfaced, a second group from Malaysia entered. Their smallest motorcycle was 650cc, and their entry fee was about $1600 per person and motorcycle. Both groups posted their tales on rideasia.net with photos and links. It seemed the door had been opened, the key being the U.S. dollar entry fee. The particulars of the trips began to filter out and generally seemed to follow a similar trail. Permits had to be obtained well in advance with a flight plan, or route and schedule, filed and approved. Government guides were required and included in the entry fee, as were hotel costs in government-approved hotels. While a third group entered and followed pretty much the earlier routes and programs, what became clear was the government of Burma had found a way to enter into the guided-tour business. Put another way, the communist government had taken a hint from the capitalistic tour operator’s world: offer packaged and guided tours and foreigners with money would pay. Neighboring China had long

used a similar tactic to satisfy foreign motorcyclist’s demands to drive their own motorcycles into and through limited parts of that country.

I was the first to ride a small motorcycle on one of their tours.

I started to ask my circle of global motorhead acquaintances as to what The luster of riding motorcycles over exactly fell within the definition of a big the borders into Burma wore off for motorcycle? Generally, all agreed the serious adventurists as they learned monster motorcycles in the 1000cc— the guided tours were not quite the 2000cc displacement range were big. free-roaming self-guided journeys for 650cc models were also big, as were which they lusted. For the same amount 400cc, and even down to 250. Once of money a tourist on foot could visit we got into the 150cc–200cc range the definition became a bit grayer. At the end of my research it was concluded that like beauty being in the eye of the beholder, a big motorcycle was defined by no weight, horsepower, length, height or engine displacement factors, but merely a nebulous set of self-applied criteria. I went to the original ping on the global adventureriding forum and revisited the bragging rights about big motorcycle riding in Burma. The claim had gotten quite a bit of media play, but was not more of Burma, and roam pretty freely quite on point. A suggested alternative using airplanes, buses, mini-vans was, “we were the first to ride big-wallet and local transport. If one wanted to motorcycles into Burma.” But even book a motorcycle tour inside Burma, that header was dashed after seeing that option was also available, albeit that a group of big-wallet motorcycles expensive and limited in geographic from Malaysia had entered Burma area. at Tachileik some years before. One Off to the side was the question of what adventurist suggested adding “on a constituted a “big motorcycle.” The first guided tour” but that too was tossed as group tour had an 800cc BMW as their vaguely over the line as an adventure. smallest motorcycle. The second group’s In the end all I could conclude was smallest was a 650cc Kawasaki Versys. somewhere inside Burma the cash register was ringing up U.S. dollars as I was researching the history of foreigners were booking governmentmotorcycling in Thailand while these hatched organized motorcycle tours. big motorcycle tours were taking The newly announced Hilton, to place. Thailand is where 99.99 percent be built in Yangon, may even have of all motorcycles (and there are covered motorcycle-tour parking when literally millions of them) are 125 cc completed. displacement or smaller. When I was using my Kawasaki KMX200, the local Thais classified it as a big motorcycle, often asking how big it was. In 2006, when I wandered around inside Burma on a Honda XR250, the locals viewed it as a “big” motorcycle.

Clearly Burma was on the move. The next race will be to see if Kentucky Fried Chicken or McDonalds opens first in Burma. Maybe I could be the first motorcyclist to fill my order riding my foreign-registered Kawasaki ZX-130 through the Drive Thru? But $1600 I looked back on some of my earlier seems a bit steep for a Big Mac and adventures, like riding two-up from bragging rights when I know I paid far Indianapolis to Minneapolis on a less than that for one small motorcycle. Honda 305 Superhawk. At the time Dr. Frazier’s latest book, Motorcycle I thought that it was a pretty big Adventurer, has been described as “the motorcycle, maybe because it could true story of the world’s longest, most out run any of the 1200cc Harleydifficult and most perilous motorcycle Davidsons, Indians and even a few journey ever attempted,” and “should larger-displacement British oil drippers. be a must read for every red-blooded motorcyclist.” It is about the first An inquiry was made to see if Burma motorcycle ride around the world in would offer a discount for their 1912-1913. Watch for news about the guided tours if the rider used a small 2013 ‘round the world ride retracing motorcycle. The answer came back; the original route to celebrate the “Same price for tour.” There went my incredible achievement by Carl Stearns Clancy, The Clancy Centerary Ride, at personal plan to claim global bragging horizonsunlimited.com. rights if I used my Thai-market Kawasaki ZX-130 step-through to claim


maynard

depended on your own resourcefulness and abilities...and perhaps those of your riding friends. If, that is, they knew anything at all about your particular bike.

YouTube videos and online manuals or DVDs to guide them, they have genuinely knowledgeable coaching and support via email at every turn of a wrench. Really, there’s nothing to fear.

My first bike was a 250 Honda Twin. Those Hondas used electromagnets in their alternators. If your battery was flat, you could inflict long, swinging kicks on the kickstarter until hell froze over. You could push the bike at 50 mph. The engine would not fire, let alone start.

In those primitive days when I owned the Endurance, I had tools and a place to work. But I was afraid to try to replace such an essential and precise part as a piston. Fear of getting in over my head, beyond my abilities, paralyzed me.

HERSHON

I

wrote last month about my cost-noobject fantasy bike. It occurred to me that if instead of choosing one dream bike, I listed my Top Ten objects of motor lust, more than half would be bikes I owned in the past. Either I had great taste or I’m stuck in some decades-long rut. I thought about my ex-bikes and why I’d moved past them. Mostly I wanted something new and different. But several times I sold or traded them away because I felt I could not fix them. I felt the repair they needed was beyond me. Often, if I’m honest, it was not. I hadn’t ever done the fix, true. I didn’t know how to do it, not really. And I was afraid to make some mistake I couldn’t undo. Maybe you’ve had the same feeling. For most of the 100-plus years of motorcycling, if you preferred doing your own mechanical tasks, you were on your own, especially if your bike was made by one of the smaller manufacturers. Finding how-to information was difficult or impossible. There was nearly no literature either accompanying the bike or available from independent sources. Factory repair manuals did not encourage you to dig into your bike’s innards. Those books assumed a familiarity with tools and terminology that I lacked. I could adjust chains and valve clearances and clutch-cable freeplay. I could change oil. But I balked at removing engine or transmission covers...or dealing with electrical problems, especially timing a British engine’s ignition, done the same way in 1965 that it was in 1905. If your dealer had sold your bike, make and model, in sufficient numbers, he or his mechanic knew how to do basic maintenance. But he was not going to come to your house and watch over your shoulder while you did the maintenance or made some repair. Before aftermarket shop manuals and certainly before the Internet, you

Many of those Hondas were dismantled uselessly by clueless owners, guys like me, when nothing mechanical was wrong. The bike needed a battery charge. Who knew? My second bike was British, a Velocette Venom Endurance. The Endurance was a 500cc overhead valve single, an early-’60s adventure bike, you could say. I’d love to have it back today. In ‘63 I traded it and some money for a different Velocette. Why? Because the Endurance used oil. The cylinder bore wasn’t round. It’d never been round, even factory fresh. Oil easily found its way past the rings, into the combustion chamber and out the fishtail silencer—as smoke. I didn’t dream I could fix it myself. Today, a Velocette owner is effortlessly in touch with one or several owners clubs, perhaps one in each English-speaking country. Today’s lucky owner is able to buy gaskets and oversize piston and ring sets through the clubs. He or she can watch videos showing how to take apart and reassemble the top end of the (simple) Velocette engine.

Both my G80 Matchless motocross bike and my B50MX BSA would start hot but not cold. Again, today there’s no problem. And no pushing. Online help is a keystroke away.

If I have a problem with my present bike, a Kawasaki ZRX1200, no matter how mystifying, I can post a question to the owners club forum. Within minutes not one but several fellow owners will respond to my question or post links to previous similar questions and their answers. It’s a So I traded off a perfectly wonderful bike— comfort, and it’s free! afraid even to start what amounted to a few days’ work. I’m thankful for a bike that asks very little of me, and for readily available information A decade later I bought a Moto Guzzi about how to provide it with what it does 750. Part of the clutch turned to powder need. As I mentioned, I had tools and between the engine and transmission. I places to work on my bikes in the old days. I got it apart but faltered, never replaced didn’t have the support and clear directions the part. Never reassembled the engine/ we now take for granted to encourage me, transmission. I sold the bike in boxes to a to enable me, to give it a go. Guzzi dealer. I’d kill to have it back. I wonder where my old Velo Endurance In the ‘70s and ‘80s I owned a few bikes is today? Come back, sweet motorcycle! that frustrated me in significant ways. Come back! Give me another chance... My ‘70 Sportster CH, the magneto-fired, CityBike’s technical fact-checking bureau read kickstart model, refused to light off when this column and has been rocking back-and-forth it was cold. Made me crazy. I’m sure while weeping softly under its desk ever since, so the that today owners of old Sportsters can statements in the article have not been vetted for make their bikes start easily, thanks to accuracy. Send corrections to the Internet, savvy dealers and [email protected]. Century aftermarket electronics.

A Velo owner can ask his online friends where to send his cylinder for a rebore— by someone who has bored a Velocette cylinder before. Today, an owner almost anywhere in the world could remove an entire engine and ship it to a specialist in the U.K. he’s only read about. Imagine. In the old days of drum brakes, many drums would oval-ize from heat warping or spoke tension. Today you can ship complete wheels to specialists who advertise online. They skim the drums round in a large lathe. Back then...you could curse the pulsing in your brake lever or pedal. And learn to live with it. Not only do today’s old bike owners (and new bike owners) have


to get CityBike delivered to your door by the meanest, most psychotic, well-armed branch the Government has to beat you with. That’s right! we’ll send the man to your mail hole once a month for an entire year delivering the latest issue of CityBike.

The airplane they sent was a quartermillion-dollar turbocharged Mooney

owned by two D4 members. It is the most expensive privately-owned vehicle I’ve ever ridden in other than my Ford box van (which has exceeded its purchase price in repairs over its lifetime).

Our pilots, Fred and Roy, flew a straight and level flight up to Bradford, Pennsylvania, with a single vertical “bet you can’t do this” turn so I could get a photo of the old Piper aircraft plant at Lock Haven. Roy told me later that he had logged some aerobatic Pitts time; I said I already figured as much because I noticed he had only lost a needles width of altitude

wandering the tables looking down low-cut dresses and not listening to him anyway. Another roaster came to the mike and claimed I’d asked him to kick my motorcycle to life at their Speedsville National and remembered that my engine had so little compression he had to wait for it to stop spinning before he could kick it again. When “Old Bill” Strickland drifted past I couldn’t help but wonder just how old he was because they were calling him “old Bill” 22 years ago. He says he’s 72 but must have looked really bad when he was 50 because he hasn’t changed a bit. Bill tried to pull my chain by telling the crowd he once finished the Jack Pine before I made the gas stop.

during that turn.

The banquet turned into a Hertfelder roast after Ludden introduced me as the only enduro rider he knew who had got passed by a sweep crew before the first checkpoint. To be honest this actually happened, but The airplane was the D4 troop’s way of getting back at me after I claimed they only I still think it was a setup—that one-man sweep crew on the Suzuki 500 Triple was had one subscription to Dirt Rider, which running so fast it looked to me like he they chained to the bar at The Castle so had a definite promise for a matinee if he everyone could read it. got home before the kids finished Sunday My very good friend Bernice wasn’t school. too thrilled about flying in the smallest airplane she’d ever seen until I mentioned The next fellow at the microphone told of passing me on a New England rock gardenit held twice as many people as the Piper type trail where I was turned sideways on Cubs J-3s I used to stumble around in. top of a high flat rock with both wheels She brightened up considerably when the off the ground and begging for help to get Mooney dropped in right behind, of all the motorcycle off the thing. I asked this things, an actual J-3 that had obviously speaker to change the word “begging” to been painted with a sandy broom. It “desperately requesting” and pointed out taxied in to the pump island looking like that most of the guys in the audience were a genuine airplane following a Wright Brothers replica.

Reliable, timely service at reasonable rates on all makes of motorcycles

Order a front set of Galfer Wave Rotors for your bike, we’ll GIVE you the matched rear for FREE.

When it was time to head back to New Jersey a turbulent cold front drifted down from Canada and turned all the light planes into saunas.

Sale ends 4/30/13

GalferBrakes.net

ADVERTISING

it works! Contact CityBike to place a classified or business advertisement and reach thousands of Bay Area motorcycle enthusiasts.

[email protected] 415-282-2790

For a copy of Ed’s latest book, 80.4 Finish Check, send $29.95 with suggested inscription to Ed Hertfelder, PO Box 17564, Tucson, AZ 85731. Also available on Amazon.com!

Award-Winning Customs Full Service Department Paint • Parts Fabrication Insurance Work All Makes Welcome 56 Hamilton Drive #A • Novato, CA 94949 415.382.6662 • CustomDesignStudios.com

We fix anything on American V-Twin bikes

The very thoughtful D4 guys rented us a nice Chevy two-door and it took only eight hours to drive to the little grass airport where we had left our van. Another hour and a half to get the rental to drop-off, plus two hours of rest before some feeling returned to my butt. You might say that I had hit the big time, but it was merely a glancing blow that only cracked one tail light lens.

Serving the Bay Area’s motorcycle needs since 1988

FREE!

ADMISSION & RIDE OUT

Sacramento Drive-In – Sacramento, CA

MAY 19, JULY 21, 2013 (800) 762-9785 • WWW.TOPPINGEVENTS.COM

408-298-6800 75 Phelan Avenue, San Jose Open 7 Days a week

Fabulous Graphic Design & Illustration

Visit our new shop: 990 Terminal Way, San Carlos

IN

DU

NT

U CO

ST

RY

be sure to include your name, address, & phone number!

HO

D OL

10650 PO Box 10659 Oakland, CA 94610

LLY

Just send a check for $30 to: RI

AL

101 L

NA MI

TER

or use Paypal! [email protected] [email protected]

IT BR


N TA

What can Level Five do for you today? May 2013 | 27 | CityBike.com

Cylinder Head Specialists In Business Since 1978

All Makes All Models All Years

ENGINE DYNAMICS, LLC Phone 707-763-7519 Fax 707-763-3759 www.enginedynamics.com

• Flow Bench Testing • Competition Valve Jobs •

District 4 ramrod Dave Ludden remembered that weekend blizzard well because they were betting six to five that I’d never make it to the mountains and even money that I’d never make it past the mountains.

ROTORS

[email protected]

It looked like I’d hit the big time when the dirt riders in Pennsylvania’s District 4 promised to fly me up in a private plane to tell a few lies at their enduro awards banquet.. The last time I did this gig the drive home to New Jersey was over fresh snow in the mountains that required superhuman concentration to stay off the brakes while waiting for the front wheels to steer the car away from immovable objects. I discovered that forcing an overdose of adrenaline to do nothing is like telling yourself that the tiger chasing you is defanged, declawed, well fed and only wants his belly scratched.

The Big Time...Almost

Marketplace FREE GALFER

• Porting • Polishing •

• Valve Seat & Guide Replacement • Race Prep •

HERTFELDER

2040 Petaluma Blvd. N.Petaluma, CA 94952

Auto, Motorcycle, Marine 32 years of experience 2-Year Warranty on labor Featured in American Hotrodder, High Performance Mopar, and more 4074 Fabian Way #3 • Palo Alto, Ca 94303 Phone: 650-433-0051 Mobile: 650-575-3930

www.haroldsupholstery.com M–F 9:00am–5:00pm

Estimates on Saturdays by appointment

DEALERS

CLASSIFIEDS CLUBS

Homoto is a queer and queer-friendly motorcycle club based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our rides are sport-focused with an emphasis on safety and camaraderie. For more info: http://www .homoto .us sanfrancisco@homoto .us sanjose@homoto .us

Antique Motorcycle Club of America Yerba Buena Chapter of the Antique Motorcycle Club of America Motorcycle Enthusiasts dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and operation of antique motorcycles. To join or view more information about our club, visit us at www .yerbabuenaamca .org

The Northern California Norton Owners’ Club (NCNOC) is dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of the Norton motorcycle. Membership is open to all British Motorcycle enthusiasts and is currently $25 per year, you can join online. Our monthly rides, meetings and tech session and events are open to all members and guests see our web site calendar at www .nortonclub .com . Now celebrating our 40th year!

Bay Area Moto Group Ride with other local sport bike riders in the Bay Area. • Mostly sport bikes • Routes go to ALL parts of the bay area and focus on the “twisty’s” • We set a quick pace and newbies may get left behind ;) • Group riding experience is highly recommended, as is proper riding gear • We also do track days, drag races, motorcycle camping, and attend motorcycle racing events http://www .meetup .com/BayAreaMotoGroup/

OMC The Oakland Motorcycle Club is the fourth-oldest club in the nation and celebrated 100 years of continuous operation in 2007. The OMC is dedicated to supporting the sport of motorcycle riding. We are a diverse group of male and female riders with a wide variety of motorcycles, including street, dirt, and dualsport bikes. We sponsor and organize the following annual events to which all riders are invited: Sheetiron 300 Dualsport, held in May; Three Bridge Poker Run, held in July; Jackhammer Enduro, held in October. Regular club meetings are held every Wednesday at 8:00 p.m. Guests are welcome. 742 – 45th Avenue, Oakland. (510) 534-6222. www .oaklandmc .org .

Bay Area Sidecar Enthusiasts (BASE) •Whatdoesyourdogthinkaboutmotorcycling?(A: Hard to tell without a sidecar!) •Everdrivenintrafficwithafakemachine-gun mountedtoyourrig? •Wanttoknowhowto“flythechair”? •Maybejustwanttofindoutwhatit’sliketobea “sidecarmonkey”foradaybycatchingaridewithus? We are a facebook-based group in the SF Bay Area filled with sidecars and the people who love them, and we’d be happy to meet you. Email pej12378@yahoo .com for more information.

BSA Owners Club The BSA Owners’ Club of Northern California was formed to promote the preservation and enjoyment of the motorcycles produced by the Birmingham Small Arms Company in England. Founded in 1985, the Club now has over 500 members, and has produced the monthly newsletter, The Bulletin, since the Club’s inception. Rides and activities are scheduled each month in addition to two major activities: The Clubman’s All British Weekend in the spring, and the Northern California All British Ride in the fall. Membership is open to all BSA enthusiasts. For more information: www .bsaocnc .org

Port Stockton MC COME RIDE WITH US! -We are a friend and family oriented historical club of motorcycle enthusiasts. -Any make, model or style of bike is welcome. -All are invited to join us on our rides, visit our weekly meetings or become a new member. For more information: E-mail us at portstocktonmc@webtv .net, or visit our website at portstocktonmc .com

San Francisco Motorcycle Club San Francisco Motorcycle Club, Inc., established 1904, is the second oldest motorcycle club in the country! Our business meetings are Thursday nights at 8:30pm, and guests are always welcome. Our clubhouse is filled with motorcycling history from the last century, a pool table, foosball and pinball games, and people who currently enjoy motorcycles, dirt riding, racing, touring, riding and wrenching. Check our website for events such as club rides, socials and events, and come visit us, no matter what bike you ride! San Francisco Motorcycle Clubhouse is located at 2194 Folsom St, @ 18th St in San Francisco. www .sf-mc .org 415-863-1930

Classic Japanese Motorcycle Club The Classic Japanese Motorcycle Club is dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the Classic and Vintage Japanese motorcycle. We have rides, meets, shows, swaps and can help you find and sell parts, bikes and motorcycle-related services. Members make the club function! www .CJMC .org .

Exciting women-only motorcycle group in the SF Bay Area. For more info visit www .curveunit .com

The Ducati Vintage Club The Ducati Vintage Club was founded to assist vintage Ducati MC (1987 and older) owners with information and resources to preserve, resurrect and bring these MC’s back to the road! Owners and enthusiasts are welcome to join. We meet once monthly at the Ducati Bike Night event and we sponsor the annual European Motorcycle Show and Swap held in March at the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, the La Ducati Day Concorso held in LaHonda each October and more. Visit us at www .ducativintageclub .com

The San Jose Dons Motorcycle Club exists to Advocate motorcycling, promote good will between motorcyclists and the public, promote rider safety and protect the rights of riders. Put more simply, the Dons are a group of people who love riding motorcycles and come together to enjoy motorcycling, and each other’s company. All bikes are welcome! The San Jose Dons Motorcycle Club was formed in 1932, with the clubs colors of green and gold. The Dons are associated with the American Motorcycle Association (AMA). Club Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesday of each month, beginning at 7:30 PM. The last Wednesday of each month is reserved for “Putt Night” when a club member leads the group on a short destination run to a restaurant, or other point of interest. Come check us out. sanjosedons .com

J&M Motorsports 1931 Old Middlefield Way #201 Mountain View www .jm-ms .com 650-386-1440 Good-used-motorcycle/Fair-price specialists—Sportbikes, Cruisers, & Dirt Bikes We are a licensed operation run by two brothers who love motorcycles and specialize in newer, low-mile, affordable bikes that are worth owning. We have in-house financing and a wide variety of bikes all in one place. Looking for your first bike? Your 10th? Come by and see why people like us: Easy to deal with and we really enjoy our work. J&M is not a giant dealership. When you call or visit, you’re talking directly with the owner. Come by and take a look! Open Tues-Sat - Closed Sunday We buy (nice) used bikes. Trade-ins and consignments are almost always welcome. $11,495 2011 BMW F800ST 5,926 Miles $5,995 2002 BMW R1150R 12,494 Miles $13,795 2011 BMW S1000RR 842 Miles $3,995 2008 Buell Blast500 2,885 Miles $9,995 2010 Ducati Hypermotard 2,445 Miles $7,995 2007 Ducati Monster S4R 4,015 Miles $13,495 2005 Harley-Davidson FLHRCI Roadking Classic 6,881 Miles $19,795 2007 Harley-Davidson Special Construction HD 12,835 Miles $6,495 2005 Honda CBR1000RR5,460 Miles $9,495 2011 Honda CBR600RR 722 Miles $7,995 2008 Honda CBR600RR 6,321 Miles $2,295 2005 Honda CRF250 $2,995 2007 Honda CRF250 $2,595 1970 Honda Dax ST 70 930 Miles $7,795 2010 Honda NT 700 1,257 Miles $3,995 2007 Honda VT750 Shadow Spirit 10,934 Miles $5,495 2005 Honda VTX1300S Shadow 10,335 Miles $5,995 2009 Kawasaki ER-6N 5,009 Miles $3,995 2009KawasakiEX250RNinja 1,254 Miles $3,995 2009KawasakiEX250RNinja 2,918 Miles $3,995 2010KawasakiEx250RNinja 1,176 Miles $1,995 2008 Kawasaki KLX140L Low Hours $795 2003 Kawasaki KX60 $7,295 2011 Kawasaki Vulcan VN900 Custom 1,242 Miles $5,995 2008 Kawasaki Vulcan VN900LT 1,992 Miles $7,995 2008 Kawasaki ZX14 10,834 Miles $8,995 2009KawasakiZX14RNinja 1,443 Miles $5,4952005KawasakiZX636Ninja 17,166 Miles $5,295 2008 Suzuki DRZ400SM 2,615 Miles $6,995 2008 Suzuki GSRX600 6,375 Miles $8,495 2009 Suzuki GSXR600 1,059 Miles $6,995 2007 Suzuki GSXR600 7,644 Miles $7,995 2009 Suzuki GSXR750 11,179 Miles $2,495 2005 Suzuki GZ250 13,775 Miles $2,995 2008 Suzuki GZ250 1,099 Miles $5,495 2005 Suzuki SV650S 6,271 Miles $4,995 2005 Suzuki SV650S 8,961 Miles $5,495 2005 Suzuki SV650S 2,754 Miles $4,995 2007 Suzuki SV650S 11,429 Miles $8,495 2006 Triumph Rocket III 9,913 Miles $3,995 2010 Vespa S150 537 Miles $4,995 2005 Yamaha FZ6 4,520 Miles $5,995 2009 Yamaha FZ6R 2,325 Miles $3,495 2000 Yamaha Vstar650 Custom XVS 650 6,198 Miles $2,495 2007 Yamaha YZ250F $2,995 2009 Yamaha YZ250F $3,995 2010 Yamaha YZ450F $5,295 2007 Yamaha YZF600R 2,061 Miles $8,995 2009 Yamaha YZFR1 9,081 Miles $6,995 2007 Yamaha YZFR1 16,559 Miles $7,495 2008 Yamaha YZFR6 8,978 Miles $5,495 2004 Yamaha YZFR6 2,731 Miles $13,995 2003 Chevrolet C2500HD Duramax 2X4 174,069 Miles $18,995 2003 Ford F250 4X4 PowerStroke 7.3L 179,954 Miles

Mission Motorcycles 6232 Mission Street Daly City, CA 94014 (650) 992-1234 www .missionmotorcycles .com Mission Motorcycles is a dealership for new Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha motorcycles, ATVs, scooters and dirt bikes and the Zero electric motorcycles. Our factory– trained technicians can keep your machine in top-top running condition. We are currently looking for quality pre-owned motorcycles and scooters. We accept trade-ins if you’re thinking of a new ride. We also offer consignment sales for your old ride that you might not be using anymore. Call or visit to discuss options with one of our sales representatives.

NEW BIKE SPECIALS 2009 Honda CBR1000ABS in Red. Spectacular engine performance with solid, confidence inspiring, handling. Feels like a 600cc in the tight turns, yet open the throttle and feel the acceleration of a liter class bike. MSRP was $13,999 – NOW $10,300 !!! Stock # H2898 2013 Zero Electric Motorcycles are here! Improvements for 2013 include a new Z-Force motor with up to 70 ft-lbs of torque, top speed of 95 mph, range up


to 135 miles, and removable storage in the “tank” of the S and DS mode, and Bluetooth Smartphone integration. Select models are eligible for the $900 CA Clean Air Vehicle Rebate and 10% Federal tax credit. Call for a Demo Ride and mention CityBike. 650-992-1234 2011 ZERO Electric Motorcycles Factory Authorized Clearance savings available here at Mission Motorcycles. Get Plugged In! The MX (Motocross) model is $3500.00 OFF!!! Plus, select ZERO Motorcycles qualify for a $900 CA Clean Air Vehicle Rebate! Call (650) 9921234 for more information. JUST ARRIVED: 2013 CBR500, 2013 Honda CB1100 retro-styling, 2013 Honda GoldWing F6B Deluxe, 2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 COMING SOON: The brand new Honda CB500F, 2013 Honda NC700X standard and DCT models, 2013 Suzuki SFV650 and 2013 Suzuki DRZ400 Super-Moto New Honda CRF50 and CRF70 $150.00 OFF!!! Get your kids riding with an automatic , 3-Speed, Mini Dirt Bike! Training wheels available. NEW 2012 SUZUKI SALE Save up to $500 on GSXR600, GSXR750, V-Strom 1000, Boulevard M109, Boulevard C50 and Burgman 650 Executive. Special, low financing available. 2012 CRF150R Big Wheel ON SALE NOW!!! Excellent motorcross bike for teens or smaller adults. 2012 Honda Gold Wing in Black! Tour the country in style and comfort with a Gold Wing! This bike has everything but the airbag: ABS, Navigation, XM Ready, and Heated Grips and Seat! This bike also has Reverse and is $1000.00 OFF!!! Stock # H2995 2012 Demo Yamaha FJR1300 in blue and on Sale! $1500.00 OFF! What a fantastic sport touring motorcycle! This bike is fun, handles like a dream and has great styling! It also has heated grips, an automatically adjustable windscreen, saddlebags and two seat height options stock! Y2732 2011 Yamaha FZ1 $9,799 Silver. Want a comfortable ride, but don’t want to give up sport performance and handling? This is the ride for you. Stock # Y2683 2010 Honda Sabre $11,000 on Sale. Candy Red. All stock with a custom look. Arrive in style everywhere you go with this super sleek cruiser that gets all the attention! H2935

PRE-OWNED VEHICLES 2012 Yamaha Super Tenere Blue with yellow decals, all stock equipment and only 3,974 miles. Stock # U1209 $12,999 2010 Yamaha WR250R Dual-sport bike with fuel injection. Comes with a Sargent seat and ProMoto rear luggage rack. 5639 miles, $5899 Stock# U1184 2009 Yamaha YZ450F White with black & red decals, $3599. Fresh tires, new fork seals, and ready to ride! Stock# U1195 2009 Triumph Thruxton black with pewter stripe. 15,370 miles. Stock# U1204 $5999 2002 Honda Rebel black with 14,256 miles. Saddlebag supports already installed, just add your bags! Stock # U1202 $2399 Prices do not include government fees, dealer freight/ setup fees (new vehicles only), taxes, dealer document preparation charges or any finance charges (if applicable). Final actual sales prices will vary depending on options or accessories selected. Check out and compare our bikes online at www. missionmotocycles.com!

the passion that has grown ever sense. David’s primary goal at this point in his career is to carry the message to others regarding the joys of the motorcycle world.

PRE-OWNED BIKES $7995 2005 Ducati MULTISTRADA1000 S DS Red 43443mi $3495 1996 Honda ST1100 Red 37668mi $2795 2001 Honda VT750C Black Shadow 77306 mi $5995 2005 Suzuki GSXR 1000 Yellow/Black 17251 mi $9495 2005 Harley Davidson FXSTI Softail Blue 17968 mi $5795 2000 Buell X-1Red Lightning 10645 mi $3295 2009 Suzuki S40 (LS650) 650cc, 1cyl Black 14882 mi $3495 2006 Suzuki S50 (VS800) Boulevard BLK 16677 mi $6995 2012 Suzuki C50T (VL800T)Boulevard BLK/ RED 8781 mi $2295 2004 Honda CB250 Nighthawk Black 12508 mi $1895 1981 Yamaha XJ650 Maxim Silver 45941 mi $3995 2007 Suzuki GSX750F Katana Black 20935 mi $10495 2002 Harley Davidson FLHTCUI Ultra Classic Blue 10495 mi $4995 2003 Kawasaki VN1600 Grey 25149 mi $3995 2002 Buell Cyclone M2L1200cc Blue 11546 mi $11995 1997 Harley Davidson FLSTF V2, 1340cc Black/ Flame 24288 mi $4995 2009 Harley Davidson XR-1200 Sportster Orange 28550 mi $15995 2004 Harley Davidson FLSTCI Heritage Softail Purple 11654 mi

COMING SOON $2995 1996 Kawasaki VN 1500-D1 Black $2995 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan VN750A Red/Grey 24428 mi 1999Yamaha XV650 V STAR Black 1996Triumph Trophy 900cc Green 49903 mi $2595 2003 Kawasaki Vulcan EN500C Black 9388 mi $2995 1984 Honda V65 Magna VF1100C Red 34888 mi 2000 Suzuki GSX-R600 Black 25153 mi

SF MOTO 275 8th Street at the corner of Folsom San Francisco - 415 255 3132 www .sfmoto .com We are sf moto. Located on 8th and Folsom in the SOMA (South of Market) area of San Francisco,we serve the bay area with new SYM scooters and recent used motorcycles. We sell Triumph, Ducati, Yamaha, Kawasaki, BMW,Suzuki and other brands. Here you will find anything from Street bike to cruiser and dual sport bikes. All our vehicles have been thoroughly gone through. Our used motorcycles come with our own 60 day warranty.

SERVICE DEPARTMENT: The service department is open from Tuesday throuhg Saturday from 8:00am until 6:00pm. Direct service phone line: 415-861-7196

SALES DEPARTMENT: Ride On Motorcycles 707-647-RIDE (7433) Ride-On-Motorcycles .com 1416 Sonoma Blvd Vallejo CA 94590 Steve@Ride-On-Motorcycles .com David@Ride-On-Motorcycles .com Welcome to Ride-On-Motorcycles! Our friendly associates will help you find the Motorcycle you want at a price you can afford. Our years of experience and commitment to quality have earned us loyal customers throughout the Ride-On-Motorcycles metro area. Women riders are always welcome and yes, we listen to what you want. We are an Authorized Dealer for Cleveland CycleWerks offering brand new quality, affordable production motorcycles. The Misfit is a full suspension “Café” styled bike that can fit 2 passengers comfortably. The Heist is a “Bobber” styled bike that will turn heads with lots of cool features. Our experienced buyers select only the best values from trade-ins, overstocked inventory and private party purchases. We stand by every motorcycle we sell. Due to our low overhead, we can pass incredible savings along to you. We specialize in satisfying all our customers’ needs with your powersports purchase. From what you want and keeping within your budget, we will walk you through the entire process. We promise a hassle-free experience! Every motorcycle we sell gets a service and has passed a comprehensive 38 point inspection performed by our knowledgeable staff. One-stop shopping! We sell and service most makes and models. Including Harley-Davidson, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki to mention a few. Trades are always welcome. We’ll buy your bike or take it on consignment. Warranties soon to be on the menu. Parts & Accessories in stock. We offer financing through multiple sources to qualified applicants. Discounted no-obligation insurance quotes available for your scooter! Our History: Ride-On-Motorcycles was founded by two motorcycle enthusiasts and riding buddies, David and Steve in 2009. Both David and Steve spent time together at Harley-Davidson of Vallejo until the Dealership sold in 2008, the new owners let the management team go so David and Steve partnered up to start a new shop offering a wide variety of brands in a warm friendly family environment. About Steve Steve is known in the motorcycle community as “Hollywood” Steve, a handle that was given to him over a decade ago by riding friends that would patiently wait for him as he got ready to leave on rides. In his younger years Steve was influenced by the movie “Easy Rider”. After seeing the flick he purchased his first motorcycle the very next day. Steve has been an avid rider now for more than 40 years. Steve held many positions in every department of a leading Northern California Harley-Davidson dealership. As Sales Manager he learned the value of offering quality motorcycles at a fair price. As Business/ Finance Manager it was important that the financing and warranties were of the best value. The purchase experience needs to be hassle free and a pleasure. He knows that the success of the business is a total commitment to satisfy every customer’s need while fulfilling their dreams to ride at Ride-On-Motorcycles. About David David’s entry into the motorcycle industry was more from necessity than pleasure. Seemed like a good career choice. David began working in the industry in 1981 and purchased his first motorcycle to commute to work that year. His work experience includes managerial duties in parts and accessory, purchasing and sales of motorcycles, and servicing motorcycles. His passion for riding grew for 20 years before finally heightening in 2007 with Steve and David’s first road trip together, the epic ride to Daytona Beach for Bike Week. This was the foundation for

- We buy used motorcycles and scooters. We can also help you sell your ride with our no cost consignment program. - Bring your bike, title (or loan statement), owners handbook and keys. - It’s OK if you still have a loan on your bike we can still take care of you. - We will provide the safest way for you to get cash for your motorcycle or scooter. It only takes about 20 - 25 minutes. - Sign up on our mail list to get NEW INVENTORY NOTIFICATIONS in our weekly e mail newsletter at www .sfmoto .com WE HAVE THE FASTEST ROTATING SELECTION IN SAN FRANCISCO: Download a free QR code scanner from your app store or google play . Then scan the following QR code to see our current inventory including detailed specs and images!

USED INVENTORY

- All used motorcycles at sf moto come with a 3 month warranty. We thoroughly go through our used inventory: - If we find brakes to be worn over 60%, new pads are installed - If we find tires to be worn beyond 60%, new tires are installed - If chain & sprockets are worn beyond 60%, we install new chain & sprockets. APRILIA Aprilia RSV 1000 Bol D’Or, 2007, 15921 miles, Orange/ Lavender - $8998 Aprilia Shiver 750, 2009, 3698 miles, Blue / Silver $7998 DUCATI Ducati Monster 1100, 2010, 560 miles, red - $8998 Ducati Multistrada 1200, 2010, 9777 miles, white, $17498 HONDA 99, 2006, 21961 miles, black, $4498 919, 2004, 34630 miles, Silver - $5198 919, 2002, 17425 miles, Red - $5498 919, 2007, 13309 miles, Red metallic - $5998 CBR250R, 2012, 1811 miles, Red/White/Blue - $3998 CBR600RR, 2007, 9689 miles, Blue/Silver - $7998 CBR600RR, 2004, 7103 miles, blue, $6498 CBR600RR, 2010, 6979 miles, orange / black, $10498 CBR600RR, 2008, 5753 miles, orange / black, $7998

CBR600RR, 2008, 6358 miles, flat black, $8498 VFR800 Interceptor, 2006, 15299 miles, - $5998 Shadow VLX VT600, 7713 miles, silver, $5498 Rebel 250,12227 miles, Silver, $2998 Shadow Sabre VTX1300, Silver, 8991 miles, $5498 Shadow Aero VT750, 2011, 452 miles, red, white & blue - $6898 VTX1800, 2003, 14257 miles, red, - $4998 Silverwing, 2003, 23610 miles, red, - $3498 KAWASAKI Concours ZG1400, 2008, 148 Miles, Silver, $9998 Ninja250,2009, 7501 miles, green, - $3998 Ninja250,2008, 2585 miles, green, - $3998 Ninja250,2009, 1652 miles, black, - $3998 Ninja250,2009, 5929 miles, black, - $3998 Ninja250,2012, 932 miles, red, - $3998 Ninja250,2009, 3247 miles, red, - $3998 Ninja500,2007, 8702 miles, Orange, - $3998 Ninja500,2003, 1958 miles, Blue, - $3998 Ninja500,2005, 9494 miles, black, - Call Ninja650,2008, 4077 miles, green, - $5898 Ninja650,2007,3986 miles, blue, - $5898 Ninja650,2009, 5095 miles, black, - $6198 Ninja650,2011, 2547 miles, Orange, - $6898 Ninja650,2011, 4116 miles, Black, - $6798 Ninja650,2011,10873 miles, Orange, - $6498 Ninja650,2007,1619 miles, blue, - $5998 NinjaZX-6R, 2284 miles, black, - $8498 NinjaZX-10R, 1710 miles, black, - $10998 Versys 650, 204 miles, blue, - $6998 Vulcan 500, 507 miles, black, - $3998 Vulcan 900, 1648 miles, blue, - $6998 Vulcan 900, 805 miles, black, - $7998 KYMCO People 150, 3333 miles, white, $2298 PIAGGIO MP3 400, 2010, 6154 miles, blue, - $6498 Fly 150, 2009, 8582 miles, silver, - $1898 Fly 50, 2010, 608 miles, silver, - $1998 SUZUKI Burgman 400, 2008, 9575 miles, red, - $4498 Burgman 400, 10158 miles, black, - $3498 DRZ-400, 2011, 1271 miles, white, - $5898 GSXR-750, 2011, 1351 miles, black, - $9898 GSXR-750, 2006, 2694 miles, blue, - $7498 GSXR-750, 2011, 1888 miles, blue, - $9698 SV650S, 2007, 11492 miles, red - $5498 SV650S, 2007, 9864 miles, red - $5498 V-Strom 650, 2009, 13332 miles, black - $6998 V-Strom 650, 2007, 13160 miles, black - $6498 V-Strom 1000, 2012, 4845 miles, black - $9698 SYM HD125 scooter, 2006, 5390 miles, blue - $2498 TRIUMPH T100, 2011, 18347 miles, black - $7598 T100, 2008, 1368 miles, red/silver - $7498 Thunderbird ABS, 2011, 2992 miles, white, - $10998 YAMAHA FZ6, 2007, 567 miles, red, - $5998 FZ6, 2009, 7984 miles, yellow - $5998 FZ6, 2012, 592 miles, white - $6898 FZ6, 2009, 6331 Miles, Yellow, $5998 YZFR6, 2010, 6450 miles, black - $8498 YZFR6, 2008, 5174 miles, blue, - $7998 YZFR6, 2008, 4339 miles, blue, - $7998 YZFR6, 2006, 3856 miles, black, - $7498 YZFR1, 2009, 26 miles, blue - $9998 FZ1, 2005, 10670 miles, blue - $5998 V-Star 250, 2012, 1721 miles, black - $3898 V-Star 250, 2009, 1787 miles, black, - $3498 V-Star 650, 2003, 2516 miles, purple, - $4298 V-Star 950, 2010, 339 miles, white, - $6998 V-Star 950, 2010, 947 miles, gold, $6998 Vino 125, 2006, 4764 miles, blue, $2198 Zuma 125, 2009, 2337 miles, blue - $2798

NEW INVENTORY All SYM bikes come with a 2 year factory warranty SYM Mio 50 scooter, 2013, NEW, black - $1998 SYM Citycom 300i scooter, 2009, NEW, red or blue $3999 SYM Fiddle II 125 scooter, 2013, NEW, sand, blue, black, red, white - $2295 SYM HD200 scooter, 2013, NEW, Yellow, Orange, Black, Red, Gunmetal - $3495 SYM Symba (aka Honda Cub), 2013, NEW, blue, red, black - $2349 SYM Wolf (aka Honda CB150), 2013, NEW, Tricolor, red, green, black, white - $2995 Hyosung Aquila 250 EFI, NEW, Black, - $3999 Hyosung Comet 250, NEW, Black, - $4098

‘89 Yamaha XT350 Dualsport. 6.2k mi, new tires, chain, sprockets. excellent condition, Mendocino Coast. $2150. 707/-962-0379, Mendocino Coast area - please leave message. 1952 BSA ZB 500cc - $3000 1965 Duca(ti?)Condor350cc - $2500 1966 BSA Thunderbolt 650cc - $3000 1972 BSA B50 TR 500cc - $3000 1973 HD Sprint Aermacchi - $3000 Old Ed Meagor San Rafael 415-457-5423

1973 CB350 Four, 36k miles. Mild café racer with new bars, taillight, stainless spokes, Bridgestone rubber, shocks, etc. Original paint, chrome, seat cover. I have most of the takeoff parts (not exhaust). Very clean bike with no damage history. Clean title, ridden on weekends. Needs a few TLC items, call to discuss. Asking $2550 OBO. (510)760-1986

Custom Design Studios Mind-Blowing Custom Paint Since 1988 Visit Our Showroom!

V-Twin Service, Repair, Parts, & Fabrication. Harley Factory Trained Tech.

Reach thousands of Northern California motorcyclists. Just $15 for 25 words, 25¢ each additional word. Photos add $25. Industry classifieds are a higher price. Free 25-word listing for stolen bikes. Deadline is the 3rd of each month. Just fill out the form, or copy and send it with your check, payable to CityBike PO Box 10659, Oakland CA, 94610

Scorpa trials motorcycle (French) Brand-new, zero miles 2005 model. 70cc 4-stroke, only 80 pounds. 3-speed transmission. Call for details. $2000. 415/781-3432.

RIDING SCHOOLS

Doc Wong Riding Clinics PERSONAL IMPROVEMENT Come to the FREE monthly Doc Wong Riding Clinics. www .docwong .com Eighteen years, 40,000 riders!

PARTS AND SERVICE

Cycle Salvage – Hayward Cycle Salvage Hayward = Full Service. People are surprised to find out that we’re more than just a salvage yard. •Full Service - All makes: We have 3 lifts and 3 full-time mechanics! •Tire installation (even if you bought tires elsewhere) •Plastic Welding (fairings) •Oil Changes •New Tires We buy used/wrecked bikes Helmets, jackets, leathers, gloves, and all other apparel Fair prices and easy to deal with. Used parts -> broke yours? Call us! Cycle Salvage Hayward 510-886-2328 21065 Foothill Blvd.

ADDICTION MOTORS

Name: Address: City: e-mail:

4052 Watts St @ 40th Emeryville, CA 510.473.7247 www .addictionmotors .com Monday-Friday 8am-7pm Saturday-8pm-6pm Do-it-yourself lifts available for rent By appointment. Classes at Addiction Motors Check out our new class schedule, two classes, every week and every month @ Addiction. First Wednesday: Complete Chain Service Second Wednesday: Suspension Third Wednesday: TBD Fourth Wednesday: Fork Service First Saturday: Making it Yours: How to Customize and Accessorize Second Saturday: Brake Service Third Saturday: Experts Forum Fourth Saturday: Changing Oil Check out the large selection of showcased bikes for sale by owner – we may have your next ride sitting in our shop! Addiction Motors is a full service motorcycle maintenance and repair cooperative in Emeryville. Our cooperative includes the independently owned and operated business of LG Moto, Mechanical Advantage, Spa Moto, ZBF, and Wrench It Yourself, all supported under the umbrella of Addiction Motors, LLC.

Rotors, Brake lines, Pads, Street, Race, Off-road, SuperMoto PashnitMoto is one of the largest Galfer Braking dealers in the USA. Colored brake lines, custom lengths, Wave Rotors. 50 Pages of part numbers. www .GalferBrakes .net or call 530/391-1356

www .MotoTireGuy .com Motorcycle Tire Services San Francisco - Bay Area (415) 601-2853 Order your tires online, Zero CA sales tax plus Free UPS Ground, then have a Preferred Installer in your local area do the installation and save! Please visit website for details.

ADVANCED CYCLE SERVICE *Motorcycle Service and Repair* • Tires • Service •Insurance estimates Monthly bike storage available Come check us out 1135 Old Bayshore Hwy San Jose, CA 95112 (408) 299-0508 jim@advcyles .com — www .advcycles .com DUCATI SUZUKI KAWASAKI YAMAHA

Michael’s Motorsports BMW Motorcycle Service, Repair, Restoration Air heads, Oil Heads, Hex heads, K Bikes, F Bikes 880 Piner Rd. Ste 46 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 (707) 575-4132

AMERICAN CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE PARTS Large Parts Inventory for American V-Twins Full service on all American-made bikes Machine Shop & Welding 925-689-9801 2395 H Monument Blvd, Concord

Bavarian Cycle Works

Motorcycle Performance Parts, Accessories, Services. Low price on Tires!!! We will PRICE MATCH with any store. Phone : 408-298-8887 1391 N. 10th St San Jose CA 95112 Email: info@motogio .com www.motogio.com Please mention this ad and you will receive an additional 5% off on your purchase.

EXPERT Service & Repair Bavarian Cycle Works specializes in new and vintage BMW, modern TRIUMPH and select motorcycle models. Our staff includes a Master Certified Technician and personnel each with over 25 years experience. Nearly all scheduled motorcycle maintenance can be completed within a one day turnaround time. All bikes kept securely indoors, day and night. Come see us!

Quality Motorcycles

ROCKRIDGE TWO WHEELS Need new rubber? Rockridge Two Wheels is offering a $50 mount and balance with the purchase of two tires. Factory techs. 40+ years experience. Full service facility. 510/594-0789 vespawalnutcreek .com 925 938 0600 rockridgetwowheels .com 510 594 0789 For all your Bay Area Vespa / Piaggio / Aprilia needs

EAT AT REDS JAVA HOUSE, SF. “IT’S REALLY GOOD FOOD” SAYS CITYBIKE MANAGEMENT. EBAY SALES eBay sales. Specialist with vehicles, 12 years experience, and 5000+ positive feedback rating. Flat listing rate. I can produce auctions with 20+ large format, gorgeous, high quality pictures with my dealer account and pro-grade camera. Dr. Hannibal Lechter reminds us that “we covet what we see.” Let me show people what you have and why they should pay top dollar for it! Interested in larger lots of identifiable, good-quality motorcycle and car parts to buy as well. imperialist1960@yahoo .com or 415/699-8760.

SELL YER STUFF IN CITYBIKE! Yes, you can do that—it’s easy. Easier than calling your grandson, having him post a Craigslist ad, then ask you for $20, which you wind up giving him because you decided to go riding instead of going to his high school graduation and you feel guilty. We here at CityBike understand your guilt feelings, so we will run your ad (25 words or less, please) ‘till sold for just $15. Add $25 bucks to run a photo of your ride so people believe you’re really selling something and not just lonely. Subscribers get a free ad every month! Maybe you should subscribe, eh cheapskate?

FREE HELP WANTED ADS

SCOTTS VALLEY MOTORCYCLE SERVICE CENTER ALL ASPECTS SERVICE AND REPAIR SPECIALIZING IN AMERICAN MADE CYCLES JUST OFF HIGHWAY 17 FROM EITHER SCOTTS VALLEY EXIT 4865 SCOTTS VALLEY DR. (831) 438-6300 OPEN: TUESDAY- SATURDAY 10A-5P SUNDAY NOON-5P

Enter these contacts into your phone now, while you are thinking about it, so that you will have them when you need them .

SAN FRANCISCO AND BEYOND: DAVE’S CYCLE TRANSPORT

In our ongoing effort to support and promote local motorcycling businesses that we rely on, all motorcycle industry help wanted ads will be listed in the CityBike Classifieds Section for free. Contact us via email: info .citybike .com

ADVERTISING

it works! Contact CityBike to place a classified or business advertisement and reach thousands of Bay Area motorcycle enthusiasts.

[email protected] 415-282-2790 The Old Man The Old Truck Dave is working Dave’s Cycle Transport San Francisco-Bay Area and Beyond… 24 Hour Service (415)824-3020 — www .davescycle .com


WHEELS AND DEALS Call 415/999-4790 for a 24-hr. recorded message and a copy of the FREE REPORT

MOTORCYCLE TOWING MOTO GIO

Sonoma, Marin, Napa & Mendocino Counties 24 hour Roadside Pickup 707-843-6584 Insured & Licensed California Motor Carrier Permit www .mcmotorcycletransport .com mcmotorcycle@att .net

ACCIDENT OR INJURY?

Introducing Marin Moto Works! Aprilia, KTM, and BMW Service and Repair Located at 44 Harbor street, San Rafael Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm (415) 454-RIDE

Zip:

Motorcycle & ATV Hauling

235 Shoreline Hwy. Mill Valley CA (415) 381-5059 We’re not afraid of your old bike. Since 1956 Knucklehead Panhead Iron Sportster Shovelhead Evolution Twin Cam Multi Valve 450cc and up Cyl. boring on H.D. only 21050 Mission Blvd. Hayward, 94541 (510) 581-5315

State:

MOTO TIRE GUY

Galfer Braking

USED MOTORCYCLES: 02 Honda RC51 SP2 2002 Honda RC51 SP2. 6.9K mi. Xlnt Cond w/new tires & batt, 2-Bros. Under-tail. $7500 Mendocino coast area 707-962-0379 pls lv msg.

CityBike Classifieds

Tankslapper CHUCK AND ANDY’S MONGREL

Photo Of The Month

CityBike: I read Maynard’s article about the Rickman with much interest. I built a BSA Rickman at a motorcycle shop in New York City in the early 70s, moved it to San Francisco, and enjoyed riding it up and down Mt. Tam. It was stolen from the front of SFSU in 1975 and showed up in the pages of CityBike 25 years later in an article (“My Mongrel and Me,” April 2000) by Andy Saunders. Thanks. Chuck Logan Seattle, WA

MORE SPLITTING HEADACHE

CityBike reader Mack shares the world class writing of CityBike with General Douglas MacArthur and President Manuel Quezon in the Intramuros District of Manila, Philippines. He wrote, “The President sure seemed interested but General MacArthur appeared to have other things on his mind. Do I get a free T-Shirt?”

I started riding in ‘57 on a Velocette (didn’t start, leaked, really handled) and stayed in love with two wheels. About 1960 I was rear ended twice in a month riding with traffic on the freeway in L.A. and the Highway patrolman asked me what da’ f$@k I was doing riding in traffic...he said “kid, those morons can’t even see you if you ‘re in front of them. Split lanes; at least you can dodge them easier.

splttin’ at about 35 but hang way to one side or the other; have an escape route.” I’ve been off four times but never had an accident on the freeway since then. Guess I’ll leave riding with traffic to the wannabes on Harleys...you know who you are. All the best, Ernie Mathews San Francisco

Don’t go more than 10 mph faster than traffic,quit

