Innholdsfortegnelse for 186 i Australian Road Rider

There are two very different motorcycles in my garage at the moment. Well, there are actually five very different bikes in there, but for now I want to discuss just two of them. One is a Royal Enfield Classic 350, and the other a BMW M 1000 R Competition. These two machines are obviously at polar opposites in terms of performance, hardware, features, technology and, of course, price. Let’s start with performance. The Classic 350 is powered by an air-cooled 349cc single-cylinder engine that makes a modest 15kW (20.2hp) and 27Nm of torque. It taps out at around 120km/h with a tailwind. The M 1000 R Competition, on the other hand, is equipped with a liquid-cooled 999cc inlinefour that makes literally 10 times more power – 154kW (210hp) – and…

Honda has surpassed a remarkable milestone — more than 500 million motorcycles sold globally since the company began production in 1948. Its first mass-produced model, the 1949 Dream D-Type, kickstarted a journey that would see Honda become the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. The brand achieved 100 million units by 1997, 200 million by 2008, and 300 million by 2014. In 2019, it reached 400 million, with the half-billion milestone passed recently thanks to strong global demand. While production briefly dipped during the COVID-19 pandemic, Honda says volumes have rebounded. In 2024, the company began expanding its global range of electric twowheelers as part of a broader push towards carbon neutrality. “Honda has a huge history in Australia that has generated a large following of loyal Honda owners. We are proud…

This beautifully presented 168-page book chronicles MV Agusta’s Grand Prix racing legacy from 1957 to 1976, as told by renowned British journalist Alan Cathcart. Featuring 86 never-before-seen large-format images, MV Agusta — MotoGP 1957–1976 delves into the story of Count Domenico Agusta and the legendary riders who made MV an icon, including John Surtees, Mike Hailwood and 15-time world champion Giacomo Agostini. Cathcart not only shares behind-the-scenes insights and anecdotes from Agostini himself, but also recounts the thrill of riding these incredible machines. The book includes rare access to MV’s 350cc and 500cc threeand four-cylinder race bikes, as well as the marque’s failed attempt at producing a Formula 750 racer. Presented in a limited, individually numbered print run of just 1000 copies, it features bilingual English and Italian text, a…

It’s always nice to see Antipodean bike makers mixing it with the big boys. It’s a tall order to create practical and affordable machines that can compete in a cut-throat market. But this is what New Zealand-based electric motorcycle manufacturer, FTN Motion, is aiming to do. Founded by childhood friends, Luke Sinclair and Kendall Bristow, FTN Motion has sold more than 200 electric motorcycles in New Zealand to date. It is now targeting the Aussie market in the next stage of its growth. The bikes they hope to sell over here are the Streetdog50, which has a top speed of 50km/h and a claimed range of up to 180km, and the Streetdog80, which we are testing. The latter has a claimed top speed of 80km/h and a realistic range of…

ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke inline four cylinder Capacity: 1099cc Compression ratio: 11.8:1 Engine management: EFI, 38mm throttle bodies PERFORMANCE Claimed maximum power: 99kW (135hp) @ 9000rpm Claimed maximum torque: 112Nm @ 7600rpm Fuel consumption: 5.7l/100km (as tested) TRANSMISSION Type: Six-speed with dual-direction quickshifter Final drive: Chain Clutch: Wet multi-disc type CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Chassis: Twin tube aluminium Front suspension: 43mm inverted fork with rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, 150mm travel Rear suspension: Horizontal back-link, gascharged shock with rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, 152mm travel Front brakes: Dual semi-floating 310mm discs, radially mounted four-piston calipers Rear brakes: Single 260mm disc, singlepiston caliper Tyres: F: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) Bridgestone Battlax Sport Touring T31; R: 180/55ZR17M/C (73W) Bridgestone Battlax Sport Touring T31 DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES Caster (rake angle): 27° Steering angle…

ENGINE Type: Milwaukee-Eight 117 Classic V-twin Capacity: 1923cc Bore x Stroke: 103.5 × 114.3mm Compression ratio: 10.3:1 Fuel system: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) Exhaust: 2-into-1 with catalyst in header PERFORMANCE Maximum power: 68kW (98hp) @ 5020rpm Maximum torque: 156Nm @ 2750rpm Lean angle: 27.4° (left and right) TRANSMISSION Gearbox: 6-speed Final drive: Belt CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Frame: Steel cradle Front suspension: 49mm telescopic fork with dual-bending valve, dual-rate spring, “beer can” covers Rear suspension: Hidden coil-over monoshock, 56mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustable Wheels: Black 9-spoke cast aluminium (optional: black tubeless laced with 36 bright spokes) Front tyre: 130/90B16 73H Rear tyre: 150/80B16 77H Tyres: Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series bias Blackwall Front brake: 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper Rear brake: 262mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper DIMENSIONS Seat height: 690mm…

ENGINE Type: Milwaukee-Eight 117 High-Output, V-twin Capacity: 1923cc Bore x Stroke: 103.5 × 114.3mm Compression ratio: 10.3:1 Fuel system: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) Exhaust: 2-into-1 with catalyst in header PERFORMANCE Maximum power: 95kW (128hp) @ 5020rpm Maximum torque: 173Nm @ 4000rpm Lean angle: 31.3° (left and right) TRANSMISSION Gearbox: 6-speed Final drive: Belt CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Frame: Steel cradle Front suspension: 43mm USD cartridge fork with triple-rate spring Rear suspension: Coil-over monoshock, 56mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustable Wheels: Radiate cast aluminium, black Front tyre: 110/90B19 62H Rear tyre: 180/70B16 77H Tyres: Michelin Scorcher 31 Front brake: 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper Rear brake: 262mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper DIMENSIONS Seat height: 715mm (unladen) Ground clearance: 145mm Rake/trail: 28°/145mm Wheelbase: 1615mm Fuel capacity: 18.9L Oil capacity: 4.7L Wet…

ENGINE Type: Liquid-cooled parallel twin, DOHC, four valves per cylinder Capacity: 799cc Compression ratio: 11.5:1 Engine management: Bosh EFI Bore x stroke: 88 × 65.7mm Ignition: Digital PERFORMANCE Claimed maximum power: 70kW (95hp) @ 8500rpm Claimed maximum torque: 87Nm @ 6750rpm Fuel consumption: 4.0L/100km TRANSMISSION Type: Constant mesh 6- speed Final drive: Chain Clutch: Wet multi-plate, assist and slip CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Chassis: Tubular steel Swingarm: Aluminum Front suspension: Upside-down fork, compression, rebound, spring preload adjustment Rear suspension: Linkage shock with rebound and preload adjustment Front brakes: J.Juan 320mm discs, radial mounted monobloc 4-piston calipers, ABS Rear brake: J.Juan 260mm disc, underslung twin-piston caliper, switchable ABS Tyres: F: 90/90R21; R: 150/70ZR18M/C DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES Rake: Not given Trail: Not given Claimed dry weight: 200kg Claimed kerb weight: 220kg Ground…

After blasting down from Sydney on a big Beemer for a rock gig in Ballarat, my dad and I found ourselves with a couple of days to kill and an itch to take the long way home through Victoria’s backroads, small towns and the high country. The ride down to Victoria had been a hot and muggy 10 hours on the dreaded Hume Horror, so we were craving something scenic with a little more soul. It was all mapped out – a sweeping route through Daylesford, Yea, Bonnie Doon, the King Valley and finally Kosciuszko National Park. It was about time we traded those straight lines for twisty roads and freedom. We set off from the centre of beautiful Ballarat along the Midland Highway, a green and leafy stretch that…

Looking for a premium leather touring jacket that won’t blow the budget? The Berik Strada delivers top-spec features at an impressive price point. Constructed from 1.2mm cowhide, the Strada offers excellent abrasion resistance with added comfort and flexibility courtesy of ‘TENSE-TEX’ stretch inserts. CE-certified armour at the elbows and shoulders comes standard, and the jacket is rated to the CE ‘AA’ standard for rider protection. Touring practicality hasn’t been overlooked either. There’s a removable thermal liner for cooler conditions, ribbed rear shoulders for improved mobility, a fixed mesh lining for breathability, and adjustable waist straps for a snug fit. The Strada also features a jacket-to-pants zip, a personal ID provision, and is available in a wide size range from 48-64. BERIK STRADA LEATHER JACKET RRP: $399.95 WEBSITE: www.berik.com.au…

Alpine MotoSafe earplugs reduce wind noise and rider fatigue without blocking important sounds like traffic and intercoms. Available in Tour, Race and Pro packs, the plugs use Alpine’s ThermoShape material for comfort and a secure fit. Each set includes reusable earplugs with acoustic filters, a carry pouch and cleaning accessories. The new Minigrip feature allows for easy removal. ALPINE MOTOSAFE EARPLUGS RRP: From $49.95 WEBSITE: www.xenonoz.com/product/alpine-motosafe-pro/…

This old bloke turned 70 not so long ago. Birthdays come around sooner every year and I try to ignore them for the most part. But my family made a big fuss of this one, so maybe it’s a good time to reflect. I’ve been riding motorcycles for 52 of those years, 49 on the road since I got my licence on a Honda MT250 Elsinore. Those were the days. To get my learner’s permit, all I had to do was walk into a registry office and answer four simple questions. I got them right and bought the Honda on my shiny new Bankcard the next day. My oldies were horrified. They tolerated my Hodaka Super Rat, but dad had vowed he’d take a sledgehammer to any registered road bike…

LOOKING BACK When Mojo Motorcycles began importing CFMOTO scooters in 2005, the brand’s early motorcycles were basic, budget-focused machines that sold on price. Rebranded under the CFMOTO name in 2009, Mojo expanded the lineup to include ATVs, UTVs and small-capacity motorcycles like the V5 cruiser and Leader 150 commuter bike. While popular for their affordability, CFMOTO bikes throughout the 2010s were often viewed as lacking refinement, with average styling and performance. Despite this reputation, Mojo saw long-term potential, and CFMOTO steadily invested in design, engineering and manufacturing. By the late 2010s, models like the 300NK and 650NK began to change perceptions, featuring sharper styling by Kiska and significant improvements in finish and reliability. By 2020, the brand’s reputation had shifted. CFMOTO was no longer just a cheap alternative — it…

A Ducati Panigale V4 powered by a 216hp MotoGP-derived V4 Desmosedici Stradale engine takes on a Lamborghini Temerario with a 900hp+ hybrid powertrain combining a twin-turbo V8 engine with three electric motors. The two Italians had a drag race down the main straight at the Imola circuit. A definitive winner of the marketing exercise was not announced, but it made for a great photo… and twotime MotoGP champ Pecco Bagnaia scored a drive of the Lambo.…

The MY26 BMW R 1300 RS and R 1300 RT are available now and range in price from a tad over $23k to more than $40k. Both BMW R 1300 RS and RT models are powered by a 1300cc two-cylinder boxer engine with ShiftCam technology, making a claimed peak output of 107kW (145hp) @ 7750rpm and 149Nm @ 6500rpm. Power is fed to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox with an anti-hopping clutch and a shaft drive. BMW’s Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) with fully automated clutch operation and manual or automated shifting is available as an option on the R 1300 RT. There are four model variants of the BMW R 1300 RS: Basic version ($23,090), Triple Black ($30,890), Performance ($29,890) and Option 719 ($34,190). Riding Modes Pro with…

MOTOR Type: Hub-mounted DC brushless motor Cooling: Air BATTERY Type: Lithium-ion Capacity: 2.9kWh Recharge time: 5.5 hours PERFORMANCE Claimed maximum power: 7.5kW Claimed maximum torque: Not provided TRANSMISSION Type: Single speed Final drive: Belt CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Chassis: Mild steel, cradle Front suspension: 33mm diameter shock, 90mm travel Rear suspension: Coil over oil damper, 60mm travel Front brake: 32mm twin-piston forged aluminium caliper, 220mm diameter, 5mm-thick disc Rear brake: 32mm twin-piston forged aluminium caliper, 160mm diameter, 5mm-thick disc Tyres: F: 2.75-18 WD Journey; R: 90/90-18 WD Journey DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES Rake: Not given Trail: Not given Claimed kerb weight: 88kg Seat height: 714mm Wheelbase: 1370mm ELECTRONICS, RIDER AIDS & CONVENIENCE FEATURES Keyless ignition, Eco/Ride modes, touchscreen TFT screen, NFC key fob, alarm, rear wheel lock and USB charger ETCETERA…

ENGINE Type: Air/oil-cooled two-cylinder boxer, fourstroke, four valves per cylinder Capacity: 1170cc Bore x Stroke: 101mm × 73mm Compression ratio: 12.1:1 Fuel system: EFI, throttle-by-wire PERFORMANCE Power: 80kW (109hp) @ 7000rpm Torque: 115Nm @ 6500rpm Fuel consumption: 5.4L/100km (measured) Top speed: 215km/h (claimed) TRANSMISSION Gearbox: 6-speed, constant mesh Final drive: Shaft Clutch: Wet, multi-plate CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Frame: Tubular steel Front suspension: 45mm USD fork, fully adjustable Rear suspension: Cast-aluminium Paralever swingarm, single shock, adjustable preload/ rebound Front brakes: Twin 310mm discs, 4-piston Brembo Monobloc calipers Rear brake: 265mm disc, twin-piston caliper Tyres: Metzeler Sportec M9 RR Front: 120/70 ZR17; Rear: 180/55 ZR17 DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 1511mm Length: 2130mm Height (excl. mirrors): 1070mm Width: 870mm Seat height: 795mm Fuel capacity: 16L (3.5L reserve) Wet weight: 220kg Permitted total weight: 430kg…

The revisions to the MY25 Harley-Davidson Softail lineup mark a meaningful step forward in both performance and refinement. Whether you’re into stripped-back bobbers, slammed muscle cruisers or bags-and-fairing-equipped sports-tourers, the 2025 Softail line offers a more powerful, safer and more customisable riding experience. Harley has managed to deliver all this without compromising on character; the sound, the stance and the swagger are all still there — only now they come with even more punch thanks to an engine capacity increase, as well as a more sophisticated package underneath. Shared upgrades across the range include new digital instrumentation, LED lighting, revised switchgear, span-adjustable front-brake lever, and new constant-rate springs front and rear replacing the old progressive units for a more consistent and predictable ride. These changes may sound incremental in isolation,…

ENGINE Type: Milwaukee-Eight 117 Custom V-twin Capacity: 1923cc Bore x Stroke: 103.5 × 114.3mm Compression ratio: 10.3:1 Fuel system: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) Exhaust: 2-into-2 staggered system with catalyst in muffler PERFORMANCE Maximum power: 78kW (104hp) @ 5020rpm Maximum torque: 168Nm @ 3000rpm Lean angle: 26.8° (left and right) TRANSMISSION Gearbox: 6-speed Final drive: Belt CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Frame: Steel cradle Front suspension: 49mm telescopic fork with dual-bending valve, alloy triple clamps, dualrate spring Rear suspension: Hidden coil-over monoshock, 43mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustable Wheels: Gloss black, 26-spoke cast aluminium Front tyre: 130/60B21 63H Rear tyre: 240/40R18 79V Tyres: Michelin Scorcher 11 Front brake: 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper Rear brake: 262mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper DIMENSIONS Seat height: 665mm (unladen) Ground clearance: 115mm Rake/trail: 34°/145mm Wheelbase:…

UNDER THE SHARP NEW BODYWORK IS THE SAME 890CC INLINE TRIPLE AS THE MT-09, BUT WITH REVISED FUELLING AND GEARING Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R9 slots neatly into the R-series family as a high-performance, middleweight supersport weapon aimed squarely at riders who want thrilling track capability without the full-on extremity of the trackonly YZF-R6 or the big-bore YZF-R1. While it shares its torque-rich CP3 engine with the popular MT-09, this is no parts-bin special — the R9 boasts a new lightweight Deltabox aluminium frame, race-ready suspension, comprehensive electronics package and MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics. Under the sharp new bodywork is the same 890cc inline triple as the MT-09, but with revised fuelling and gearing — two teeth have been taken off the rear sprocket, changing the final drive from 16/45 to 16/43 for a…

ENGINE Type: Water-cooled three-cylinder fourstroke, four valves per cylinder Capacity: 890cc Bore x stroke: 78mm × 62.1mm Compression ratio: 11.5:1 Engine management: Electronic fuel injection (TCI) TRANSMISSION Six-speed with quickshifter Final drive: Chain Clutch: Wet, multi-plate PERFORMANCE Claimed maximum power: 87kW (117hp) @ 10,000rpm Claimed maximum torque: 93Nm @ 7000rpm Top speed: 260km/h (estimated) Fuel consumption: NA CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Chassis: Aluminium Deltabox Front suspension: 43mm KYB USD fork, fully adjustable, 120mm travel Rear suspension: KYB monoshock, fully adjustable, 118mm travel Front brakes: Dual 320mm discs, radially mounted Brembo Stylema calipers, cornering ABS Rear brake: 220mm disc, single-piston caliper, switchable cornering ABS Wheels: Lightweight 5-spoke forged aluminium Front: 3.5 × 17in Rear: 5.5 × 17in Tyres: Bridgestone Battlax RS11, 120/70 ZR17 (f), 180/55 ZR17 (r) DIMENSIONS & CAPACITIES Rake:…

When you travel in the developing world, plans don’t always work out like you hope. There was no way we were getting across the land border between Vietnam and Cambodia, despite having the correct visas in place… officialdom had spoken. In a few days’ time we’ll have been to the internationally acclaimed and World Heritagelisted temples of Angkor Wat, we’d be riding through the countryside, towns and into the cities of Cambodia and enjoying great food, delightful swimming pools, awesome sunsets and cheap drinks. But before all that, we would have to backtrack from the border — where the Vietnamese wouldn’t let us leave — and fly to Siem Reap, the city near Angkor Wat, where the crew from Cambodia Motorcycle Adventures would meet us with the bikes to continue…

NAVMAN MIVUE RIDER DC HELMET CAMERA RRP: $349 WEBSITE: www.navman.com.au Designed for motorcyclists and scooter riders, the MiVue Rider DC Helmet Camera from Navman offers front and rear recording in a compact, helmet-mounted setup. Magnetic sensors automatically power the unit on when mounted. It records in 2.5K (1440P) at 30fps or 1080P at 60fps, with footage transferable via the MiVue Pro app. A built-in GPS logger allows ride data to be saved as GPX files or time-lapse videos. The 3200mAh battery provides up to 4.5 hours of use and recharges via USB. Both camera modules are IP67-rated for weather resistance, making it ideal for everyday riding and touring.…

One of the things you get asked a lot as a bike tester is what machine you’d choose if you could only have one in your garage. It’s a hard one, because you want a bike that can do it all, but not if it compromises on quality, comfort or performance in the process. Well, it used to be hard. These days I just say a Ducati Multistrada. You can’t go wrong. There’s the V2 option if you want a lighter twin, but I just love a V4. There’s the sheer grunt of an inline four mixed with the character of a V-twin, all stuffed into a refined but brutal package of power, torque and smiles. Think VFRs, Panigales and RSV4s. Yum! The standard Multistrada V4 models all have 19-inch…

With class-leading comfort, strong performance and a long list of high-tech features, BMW’s R 1200 RT remains one of the finest long-distance tourers ever made — and secondhand examples offer huge bang for buck. FROM R 100 RT TO R 1200 RT BMW’s reputation for building the ultimate touring motorcycles can be traced all the way back to 1978 and the original R 100 RT — a big, boxer-powered, fully faired machine purposebuilt to cover serious ground. That machine helped kick-start the sports-touring segment and set the tone for what would become a long and successful RT lineage. While BMW dabbled with its inline-four K-series in the 1980s, boxer twin fans weren’t ignored for long. In 1995, the R 1100 RT arrived, bringing with it four-valve heads, electronic fuel injection…

Born in Sydney in 2012, the DGR is now an annual global charity event that unites riders of classic and vintage-style motorcycles all over the world to raise funds for, and awareness of, prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. Since those early days it has grown into a worldwide event that has raised almost $100 million and counting. This year, there were 5087 riders taking part in 41 rides across Australia, part of 1037 rides that took place in 108 countries across the globe. ARR took part in the Sydney ride, in which 585 motorcyclists dressed in loud suits, tweed jackets, tuxedos and even kilts and rode everything from old collectibles on historic plates to modern takes on classic bikes. We rode a beautiful new Teal Green Royal Enfield…

The engines will roar to life again on 14-15 November 2025 as the Walcha Motorcycle Rally returns to the scenic New England High Country for a weekend of two-wheeled fun, community spirit and country hospitality. Launched in 2021, the rally has grown into a highlight on the regional riding calendar, drawing motorcyclists from across NSW and beyond. Organised by Walcha Council’s tourism team and local volunteers, the 2025 event promises group rides, live music, market stalls and family-friendly attractions. As always, visitors can soak up Walcha’s local charm — from its vibrant cafe scene and pubs to farmers markets and boutique shopping. Fringe events, bike showcases, riding workshops and firepit storytelling will bring the town to life. For those staying on, there’s plenty to explore — including the dramatic Apsley…

Earlier this year, the Australian motorcycling community mourned the tragic loss of Supersport race winner Markus Chiodo, who passed away at just 27 years of age. Markus was a fierce competitor and muchloved figure in the paddock — a talented racer known for his determination, humility and everpresent smile. A multiple-time winner in the Australian Supersport Championship, Markus followed in the footsteps of his father John, carving out a respected name in his own right. Markus didn’t come to racing as early as many of his peers, but his rapid rise through the ranks reflected a tireless work ethic and a genuine love for the sport. He raced hard, raced fair, and was admired not just for his speed, but for his generous spirit and easygoing nature. Beyond the track,…

The inspiration drawn from the R90S is no coincidence. BMW intentionally crafted the R 12 S as a modern homage to one of its most iconic motorcycles, and what an incredible job it has done. No matter where I parked the R 12 S it would draw admiring looks, with plenty of riders asking plenty of questions about this undeniably good-looking machine. The first thing that grabs the eye is just how compact the R 12 S looks… and then, of course, there’s that trick paint job. The R90S of the 1970s was a revelation in its day — one of the first production bikes to come with a factory fairing and a true sports-touring intent. The Lava Orange of the R 12 S echoes the Daytona Orange of the…

BMW R 12 S $34,752 ride away 1170cc boxer twin 80kW (109hp) @ 7000rpm 115Nm @ 6500rpm 220kg wet Kawasaki Z900RS SE $22,500* ride away 948cc inline four 82kW (111hp) at 8500rpm 98.5Nm at 6500rpm 214kg kerb Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Corsa $20,590 ride away 90° V-twin 48kW (65hp) at 6800rpm 73Nm at 5000rpm 218kg wet Triumph Speed Twin 1200 RS $26,990 ride away 1200cc parallel twin 77.2kW (105hp) at 7750rpm 112Nm @ 4250rpm 216kg wet Yamaha XSR900 GP $21,499 ride away 890cc inline triple 87.5kW (117hp) @ 10,000rpm 93Nm @ 7000 rpm 200kg wet *Depending on location…

Sometimes a bike is so capable, so well designed and so practical that it simply nails its design brief. But then, for whatever reason, it seems to fly under many punters’ radars. It might be due to dubious styling, stiff competition from other marques or just a lack of wow factor, but some bikes simply fade into the background behind more exotic or higher-specced (and priced) offerings. This seems to be the case for Kawasaki’s big Versys sports-tourer. The previous Versys 1000 never became as iconic a long-distance legend as, say, Yamaha’s FJR1300. And despite its “versatile system”-derived name, even the new Versys 1100 S that we are testing isn’t quite as flexible as modern adventure bikes, such as the (admittedly much pricier) BMW GS and Ducati Multistrada ranges, which…

ENGINE Type: Milwaukee-Eight 117 Classic V-twin Capacity: 1923cc Bore x Stroke: 103.5 × 114.3mm Compression ratio: 10.3:1 Fuel system: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) Exhaust: 2-into-1 with catalyst in header PERFORMANCE Maximum power: 68kW (98hp) @ 5020rpm Maximum torque: 156Nm @ 2750rpm Lean angle: 28.5° (left and right) TRANSMISSION Gearbox: 6-speed Final drive: Belt CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Front suspension: 49mm telescopic fork with dual-bending valve, gaiter covers Rear suspension: Hidden coil-over monoshock, 43mm stroke, cam-style preload adjustable Wheels: Black Annihilator cast aluminium (optional: painted aluminium tubeless laced) Front tyre: 100/90B19 57H Rear tyre: 150/80B16 77H Tyres: Dunlop Harley-Davidson Series bias Blackwall Front brake: 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper Rear brake: 262mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper DIMENSIONS Seat height: 680mm (unladen) Ground clearance: 125mm Rake/trail: 30°/157mm Wheelbase: 1630mm Fuel…

ENGINE Type: Milwaukee-Eight 117 Custom V-twin Capacity: 1923cc Bore x Stroke: 103.5 × 114.3mm Compression ratio: 10.3:1 Fuel system: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) Exhaust: 2-into-2 staggered system with catalyst in muffler PERFORMANCE Maximum power: 78kW (104hp) @ 5020rpm Maximum torque: 168Nm @ 3000rpm Lean angle: 25.6° (left and right) TRANSMISSION Gearbox: 6-speed Final drive: Belt CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR Frame: Steel cradle Front suspension: 49mm telescopic fork with dual-bending valve, alloy triple clamps, dualrate spring and “beer can” covers Rear suspension: Hidden coil-over monoshock, 43mm stroke, hydraulic preload adjustable Wheels: Machined Lakester cast aluminium Front tyre: 160/60R18 70V Rear tyre: 240/40R18 79V Tyres: Michelin Scorcher 11 Front brake: 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper Rear brake: 262mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper DIMENSIONS Seat height: 675mm (unladen) Ground clearance: 125mm…

Just an hour-and-a-half north-east of Melbourne, near the junction of the Yea and Goulburn Rivers, lies a most unexpected holy site. Turn off the Melba Highway about 15 minutes out of Glenburn, then ride a few clicks down the unsealed Ti Tree Creek Road and you’ll soon reach it. The Cathedral of Moto Guzzi is the masterwork of a group of motorcycle fanatics led by the high priest of the order of Mandello del Lario, Teo Lamers. And for anyone with a love of bikes, it is truly splendid to behold. Teo is a Dutchman well known to most Guzzisti as the guy who once owned the world’s biggest independent Moto Guzzi dealership in the world. These days, Teo lives with his wife Grace on their rural property, the centrepiece…

LS2 FF807 DRAGON FORGED HELMET RRP: $7 $749 WEB WEBSITE: SIT www.ls2helmets.com.au Looking for a lightweight lid that doesn’t compromise on protection or comfort? The LS2 FF807 Dragon Forged Helmet could be just the ticket. Weighing in at just 1280g (±50g) thanks to a 6K carbon shell, the Dragon Forged is both strong and featherweight. It’s certified to the latest ECE 22.06 standard and features a multi-density EPS liner, emergency release cheek pads, double D-ring chin strap and a reflective safety patch for extra visibility. Ventilation is handled by carbon vents on the chin and crown with internal channels through the EPS to keep air flowing. Inside, you’ll find a removable and washable X-Static silver liner that’s hypoallergenic, antibacterial and soft against the skin. Vision is top-notch, with a Pinlock…

At first glance, it might sound like a gimmick, but the Biker Barbie from Andy Strapz has proven to be a surprisingly popular bit of camping kit for motorcycle tourers. Compact and cleverly designed, the Biker Barbie consists of a 20cm x 20cm steel plate, four detachable legs, a carry bag and a pouch for cutlery or utensils. Lightweight and easy to stow, it’s ideal for free camping and perfect for cooking up a campfire steak after a big day on the bike. Proof that good design can be both simple and effective — and a bit of fun too. BIKER BARBIE BBQ RRP: $93 plus postage WEBSITE: www.andystrapz.com…

Time is running out to prepare for our ride across Australia on Suzuki’s 1050 and 800 adventure bikes. I picked up the V-Strom 1050DE a number of weeks ago and have clocked up a few thousand kays getting used to the ride modes, suspension and bike in general. Meanwhile, Mick has his bike all pimped, primed and ready to roll. DJ is the guru on tech, so his bike has been set up with a new GPS, extra charge points and communication system. DJ has already mounted the Mitas off-road tyres we’re all going to fit. Since our last update, another mate who frequents Mick’s shop has decided to get on board a Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE and ride to Broome with us. Billy happens to be very handy with…