Table of contents for 16 March 2022 in MCN

‘Triumph’s given the Tiger a whole new character’JON URRY RIDES TRIUMPH’S NEW GS RIVAL FIRST TEST New Tiger is GS’s apex predator When Triumph said their new Tiger 1200 would challenge BMW’s dominant R1250GS head-on, it was a very bold claim indeed. But our first test of the new Tiger reveals that the clever use of tech, that thumping T-plane triple, and an impressive weight loss will give GS owners, and potential buyers, a very serious alternative. Is it finally time for a new king in the adventure bike jungle? PAGE 40 TOP STORY Ducati’s V4 delivers the full SP(2) Is any other manufacturer so capable of trotting out special numbered edition after special numbered edition without ever exhausting the pool of potential buyers – whatever the price tag? Ducati…

Yamaha have released the full details of their new electric scooter, the Neo’s. Designed to be roughly equivalent to a 50cc four-stroke, the 2.8bhp electric motor can power the Yamaha to a top speed of 25mph, which pretty much restricts it to city centre use. The scoot is powered by a 1 kWh battery, which gives it a range of 23 miles in full power mode using the EU standardised test. In eco mode the power is reduced to 2.1bhp, lowering the top speed to 22mph but only extends the range to 24 miles according to Yamaha’s own tests, which makes you wonder if the EU range estimation is a bit generous. The 8kg battery can be charged in the scooter or removed and charged at work/in the home with…

After a 41-year absence from the UK, Honda have revived the humble little Dax. Following on from the success of the Super Cub, Monkey and Grom, on which it’s based, the ST125 is a cute mix of old and new. Much like the original machine, a T-shaped pressed steel frame is the order of the day but little else is the same. Hanging from the frame is now a SOHC 124cc air-cooled single, with a centrifugal clutch and four speed manual box. The little thumper produces 9.25bhp @ 7000rpm and 8lb.ft @ 5000rpm, which astonishingly is enough to power it to a top speed of 55mph (even two up…). Given the engine is so little, its fuel consumption is equally tiny meaning it can stretch its 3.8 litres of fuel…

Bosch Pressure Washer and SDoc package £99.97 Taking the pressure out of cleaning Spring is definitely on the way with lighter evenings and more riding time plus, of course, squashed files to scrub off. So now is the time to think about sprucing up your cleaning kit and other garage essentials. We’ve found a selection of pressure washers at internet retailer Louis Moto including this deal on a Bosch package. With a separate detergent tank, this pressure washer comes with an accessory kit, including adjustable spray nozzles and a spray detergent bottle. The high-pressure hose is 3m long and there is a 5m electrical cable. The various nozzles, which are fully adjustable, can be stored on the machine. It’s compact and has a large carry handle, making it easy to…

Yamaha Racing Heritage Club have announced four classic events for 2022 at the Autodromo di Varano on May 6-8, Circuit Paul Ricard on June 10-12, Sachsenring on July 15-17 and at Donington Park on July 30-31. Each event will give members a chance to showcase their bikes, while also giving fans a chance to see some of the iconic machines and riders that shaped Yamaha’s racing legacy. Bolivia awaits There is still time to book a place on an epic Bolivian adventure. The ten-day trip, organised by Motodreamer, covers all types of terrain as the expedition starts on the low plains before climbing the Andean peaks. The trip costs £3500 and includes hire of a Kawasaki KLR650, nine nights’ accommodation, all breakfasts, fuel and insurance. It takes place in May.…

Triumph building more bikes in the UK is great news and all the brands are making such desirable new bikes. So PLEASE can the Government address the current impossibility for young riders to get a full licence without waiting years and paying ridiculous amounts of money? All three of my boys want to ride bikes but are frustrated by the amount of time and cost required to do so in comparison to driving (and don’t get me started on why learning to drive a car doesn’t involve MUCH more motorbike awareness training). Andy Pidden, West Sussex Be our Star Letter writer and win these DXR Code Evo Boots worth £79.99. They are available exclusively at www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk…

Ride further in 2022 with a little help from our one-stop event guide JUST BREW IT Ride out to Britain’s best biking cafés BIKE STOP • A seven-showroom store and café • Café open weekends: Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-1pm • Find out more / www.bikestop.co.uk • 104 High St, Stevenage, SG1 3DW Known as the oldest Dainese dealer in the country, Bike Stop now packs an impressive seven showrooms inside its grade two listed building on Stevenage’s old town High Street, and prides itself on customer service. Although already a destination, with the café alongside, it’s a perfect pitstop for a post-ride cuppa too. “We do paninis, sandwiches, cakes, hot and cold drinks as well as coffee and tea,” says owner Martin Brown. “And interestingly we’ve not had any negative…

MCN staff and readers share their favourite routes Why not kick off outside the Silverstone circuit itself? Feel the history, drink in its enormity, and hang on to your hairpiece as the helicopters unload VIPs at Aston Martin’s F1 HQ… Then, just minutes later, you are riding south towards Dadford along a lane as untouched as any in rural Buckinghamshire, with barely a clue the centre of the racing world lies just over the hedge. Bucolic majesty mixes it with open parkland as you make a right at the gates for Stowe – the school and National Trust gardens – then another right onto the A422 at Bufflers Holt. Now it’s a sharp blast to the A43 ring road at Brackley, past the Mercedes F1 factory, before out-dragging the traffic…

‘Like father, like daughter’ R5K MEMBERS JOHN AND SARAH-MARIE HIGHAM Just as I was getting ready for a 30-mile run one morning in the far north of Scotland, my bike-mad 18-month-old girl decided she wanted to come too! ‘Taking on the Black Mountain’ R5K MEMBER PETER PHELPS, NICK BRAZIER, AND TERRY DEVON What a way to start off the riding season with a trip to South Wales. 379 miles covered with a must-do road in the Brecon Beacons. The Black Mountain Road (A4069) gives you twist and turns as well as some stunning views. ‘Making up for a dull week of weather’ R5K MEMBER WALT BARBOUR After a rather dull week, I had a run down into Andalucia from Murcia in the sun. Stopped off in Vélez-Rubio, then up to…

Triumph have to be congratulated on what can only be described as a radical transformation of the Tiger 1200. This new generation of adventure bike more than lives up to its promise, and in terms of performance, handling and technology, they are certainly on a par with the GS. The new T-plane motor’s vibey characteristics compared to the previous model may not appeal to all, but the work done trimming weight off the Tiger’s chassis has transformed the triple’s dynamics, making it a very impressive handling machine with a high level of cleverly integrated electronics that work faultlessly. Is the Tiger now a BMW GS-beater? It’s certainly going to be very, very close. THE FACTS £16,700 Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro (plus £200 for blue or black colour options) Engine…

It’s one of those tasks that will leave most Ducati owners – and prospective buyers – gnawing their oily nails. The dreaded belt change! But it’s worth bearing in mind that, despite their critical role, they have been designed as serviceable items which means that they’re not difficult to swap. It’s a task that requires only basic tools and a methodical approach. The procedure is pretty similar across the Ducati range, but of course there will differences when it comes to the scheduled mileages and time limits. Remember, even if the belts have done hardly any mileage they need to be changed after a certain period. Years ago, we had customers who were hell-bent on supplying their own (cheaper) belts. They claimed that Renault 19 belts (also made by Gates)…

John McGuinness lining up on the start line at the NW200 or the Isle of Man TT on board a Honda Fireblade felt like an impossible dream just a matter of months ago. But it’s happening – and this weekend’s private Honda test in Portugal (p70) was the emotional reunion we’d all been hoping for. Whether the combination of Fireblade and McGuinness – in his 50th birthday year, and also targeting his 100th TT start – will prove an unbeatable marriage is, for me, almost secondary to the fact that the pair are reunited for such a significant year in the legend’s career. It’s two of the most seminal names in road racing, each synonymous with the other, embarking on a campaign that will forever be etched in our memories…

‘A third cut still failed to defeat the anchor’ THE IMAGE 4 ETHOS ‘It has to be simple to use’ ”Our aim to reduce crime through engineering and challenging the norm,” says Image4’s Operations Director, Dave McGinnity. “But at the same time it needs to be simple enough that bikers really do use it. There’s no point having a chain if it’s left on the floor. “We also know that the grinder is a tool that the thieves use because they’re so cheap and readily available, even in supermarkets, so you have to develop and design your products with the grinder in mind. We accept the grinder is going to be there and then think how to stop it. If you can’t get a grinder to a certain point in…

The Kickback retro show will return next month, with over 120 owners competing for top honours in the 2022 National Championships for custom builds. Taking place at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, Worcestershire between April 2-3, the event will also host stunt shows and a guest appearance from Henry Cole. For more information, visit ticketsource.co.uk/kickback/ Triumph challenge Triumph have kicked-off their fourth year in Moto2 by launching another Triumph Triple Trophy challenge. The initiative will award one rider from the class with a Street Triple 765 RS, complete with a special livery. The winner will be decided by a points system across the season, with seven points awarded to the rider/riders making up the most positions from race start to flag, six for pole position, and five for the…

‘Filling up with frugal delights’ I’m not in any way wishing to make light of the absolutely appalling situation that is happening in Ukraine, but watching the news it strikes me that petrol prices are set to remain high for the foreseeable. Every time I pass a fuel station the numbers on the display seem to be increasing, it’s like they have are on of those clicker-counters that doormen use and it is activated each time a vehicle fills up. So maybe it’s time to downsize. A lot of the journeys on my Fazer are short-hops. I zip into town on it to avoid the hassle of parking or pop to the MCN office. They all add up and I probably cover about 150 miles a week but each trip…

Bit e-curious? Why not try? Considering the move to electric? Here’s how to test one out before you sign-up... With almost anything, it’s best to try before you buy. Whether that’s a pair of jeans, a helmet or a new motorcycle – but it’s especially important if you’re making the switch from a combustion engine to battery power. Luckily there are a few places throughout the UK where you can try an electric bike before you commit... Or even just experience what it’s like to ride one if you’re a bit e-curious. Leading electric bike brand, Zero Motorcycles offer road tests on their entire range. Simply book online (zeromotorcycles.com) then head over to your nearest Zero dealership. In addition to this, specialist electric bike dealer English Electric Motor Co (englishelectricmotorco.com)…

Q ‘Is extra cover worth getting?’ I am renewing my motorcycle insurance and have always paid extra to include legal insurance. I’ve never had to use it and with the increase in living costs, I was wondering whether legal expenses cover is worth it? Tom Roberts, Lincolnshire A These policies are known as ‘before the event’ insurance and protect policyholders, by paying legal costs in future legal actions. In theory, these policies can be useful. However, in practice, they are frequently not fit for purpose and don’t cover what they should. The most common complaint is insurers refusing to cover the client’s chosen legal representatives rather than the panel of solicitors the insurer has links to. This can lead to the appointment of a non-specialist firm which can then affect…

FRIDAY March 18 10am, EUR2, British Speedway – 2021 Final Highlights SATURDAY March 19 2am, BTS2, Live MotoGP from Indonesia: Warm Ups. Moto3 at 3.15am, Moto2 at 5am SUNDAY March 20 6.30am, BTS2, Live MotoGP from Indonesia: MotoGP race. Chequered Flag at 8am KEY TO CHANNELS: DRT – DISCOVERY REAL TIME DSC – DISCOVERY CHANNEL DHD – DISCOVERY CHANNEL HD EXS – EXTREME SPORTS CHANNEL EUR1 (2, HD) – EUROSPORT 1 (2, HD) MOT – MOTORSPORT.TV CH4 – CHANNEL 4 CH5 – CHANNEL FIVE BBC BBCI – BBC INTERACTIVE ESPN – ESPN CLASSIC CHANNEL ITV DST – DISCOVERY TURBO SHED – DISCOVERY SHED INST – INSIGHT SS1 (2, 3 OR X) – SKY SPORTS 1 (2, 3 OR EXTRA) QUEST BTS1 – BT SPORT 1 BTS2 – BT SPORT 2 TVL…

Superbikes aren’t the draw they used to be as they’ve got too fast, too expensive and seriously single-minded. So, what’s the alternative for the discerning speed freak? Super-nakeds are the obvious answer. They’ll dish out the face-melting acceleration of a superbike, with high tech and handling to match, but they’re infinitely more playful, and enjoyable at road speeds. Best of all, they’re kind to your body. But now there’s another option, in the modern-retro shape of Triumph’s new 178bhp, 1160cc, Speed Triple RR. In simple terms it’s a Speed Triple RS with a half fairing and clip-ons. It promises to go like a superbike, but without taking itself as seriously and has more wind protection than a super-naked. To see if the Speed Triple RR really does sit between a…

Triumph’s new Speed Triple RR has superbike-aping acceleration, handling and tech. It’s classy and well equipped, too which gives it a luxurious feel, but don’t expect it to be easier to live than the superbike you’re leaving behind. Put it this way, if you struggle to fit comfortably on a GSX-R1000R for any period of time, you’ll struggle with the slimline Triumph, although smaller riders won’t have such a problem. And it’s a grand more than the GSX-R which is, bizarrely, the cheapest machine of the three. It has slightly more legroom than the Suzuki and the bars are a tad higher, but you’re still crunched up and there’s a lot of weight on your wrists, which is a pain until you’re up to speed. Cruise control is a relief…

I know what you’re thinking. All of these bikes would be entertaining to own and make every ride an event, but who in their right mind would buy something so bonkers? They’ll all be swines to own, right? No. First, these are from large brands with a reputation to protect (OK, maybe not the Bimota). Second, the designers didn’t decide not to develop the models properly just because they were a bit unusual – if anything, the opposite is true. And third – most importantly – there’s a good chance most of the key components will be shared with other well-known models within a company’s line-up. The frame and bodywork of your out-there bike might be unique, but the engine, chassis parts, wiring, and other bits will be shared. All…

MECHANIC Nick Nomikos of The Two Wheel Centre Most of the time, a bike’s problems will gradually develop into something serious, but the owner of a 2009 Yamaha TTR250 wasn’t left in any doubt all was not well as his bike started doing all sorts of weird and wonderful things! Mechanic Nick Nomikos, owner of The Two Wheel Centre in Harpenden, said: “He was heading down a long hill on his way to some nearby green lanes when his bike started to backfire. By the time he’d got to a layby a quarter-of-a-mile later his exhaust downpipe was glowing red-hot, so he got it recovered to us here.” Nick’s first thoughts were that the timing had jumped because it had come on so quickly, but that was not the issue. So…

JOSH CLOSE INSIGHT Our man with a finger on the pulse of MotoGP Is Enea Bastianini the real deal? Enea Bastianini’s emotional Qatar victory will live long in the memory. Gresini Racing’s first win since 2006, taken in their first race back as a full privateer team. There wasn’t a dry eye as Bastianini paid tribute to the late Fausto Gresini. Now we’ll discover if Qatar, as it can be, was a one-off, or if ‘The Beast’ has well and truly arrived. It certainly looks like his place towards the front will be permanent, his speed, awareness and race craft is all well beyond his years. All eyes will be on him. Will Brad Binder strike again? Brad Binder is a special talent. He’s a rider who takes an average…

Brandon Paasch secured his second consecutive Daytona 200 victory in a super-tight photo finish after what was a perfectly executed last lap manoeuvre in the legendary race. The Triumph rider was fourth at the final chicane, but went low on the banking and slipped into third before setting his sights on Cameron Peterson and Sheridan Morais. Paasch got into their slipstream and used the resulting draft to pip them both to line – taking the chequered flag by 0.007s! The 20-year-old was in a position to attack after opting to only take on new fuel at his final pit stop. Paasch averaged 113.162mph in winning the race and he also set the fastest lap of the race, a 1:49.959. “This one is great, to be honest,” Paasch said. “Josh Herrin…

£13,995 Kawasaki Versys 1000SE Touring Smooth, spacious, fast, comfortable and affordable, the SE Touring comes with 28-litre panniers, cruise control, heated grips, a power socket, cornering LEDs, ‘self-healing’ paint and a classy TFT colour dash, packed with lots information, including a completely uselessbut-fun (and addictive) lean-angle-o-meter. • www.seastarsuperbikes.co.uk SAVE £1304 £8695 Honda Forza 750 The Forza offers scooter flexibility in a mid-size motorbike that still has the noise, handling and most of the feel we crave. • www.smithshonda.co.uk • Engine 745cc • Power 58bhp • Weight 235kg • Seat height 790mm SAVE £1250 £15,985 BMW S1000RR Sport Handles like a lightweight 600cc racer with the grunt of a V4 and the top end of a WSB bike. • bowkermotorgroup.co.uk • Engine 999cc • Power 204bhp • Weight 197kg • Seat…

To mark International Women’s day earlier this month, Maidstone-based dealer Laguna Motorcycles organised a rideout to encourage female motorcyclists to come together. Despite poor weather on the day, plenty of riders turned out. Marketing assistant Jasmine Collins said: “I joined this ride on my 125 scooter but I’ve got my eye on a Suzuki SV650, so I’ll be on that next year, and I hope that fellow women see the extent of the female riding community.” Fully kitted R18 German aftermarket parts manufacturers Hornig have unveiled a customised BMW R18 to showcase the massive range of accessories now on offer for the Bavarian cruiser. The mods include a sissybar seat, Remus exhaust, pinstripe mudguard, a set of luggage and a touring screen. They’ve also raised the rear of the bike…

Caberg Ghost Nuke helmet £215 Features an unusual goggle-shape visor that works well in cold conditions as it stops draughts sneaking in. The fibreglass shell is made in two different sizes, small and large, and caters for sizes 53-61. The lining is removable, washable and made with breathable and hypoallergenic fabrics to give maximum comfort. ECE 22.05 rated and weighs 1100g. www.caberg.it Weise Thermal base layers £34.99 each Weise’s new insulated top and trousers have a breathable fleece lining to keep you warm and comfortable while you are out on the bike in all weathers. The soft-touch fabric has flat-finished seams and a light stretch for mobility on and off the bike. The tops and bottoms are available in sizes S-3XL. www.weiseclothing.com Wentworth Goods wax cotton helmet sling £29 A…

mcn.letters@motorcyclenews.com motorcyclenews motorcyclenews MCNnews Make every ride special I have just read the latest road test (MCN, March 9). As with any test, we all have our own opinions and I was interested because I recently purchased an MV Agusta Brutale 800 Rosso. One of the riders said that the Aprilia Tuono in the test lacks a little character, I definitely think it looks boring in black. I do like the Ducati, but it costs £3000 more than my bike. Owning a bike should be about the exhilaration you feel when you ride it. When I pull my bike out of the garage, there is that nervous excitement at the thought of going for a journey. The three-cylinder engine, with the three exhaust tail pipes and all the history surrounding…

1 Bikes and Banter March 17 Dean Harrison, John McGuinness and James Whitham are back this week in Colne. Taking over the stage at the Muni Theatre, the trio will entertain you with epic tales from the track and great banter for a whole evening. £25 will get you into the show, but £30 will include a picture of the three speakers from the night. bikesandbanter.co.uk 2 Ace Cafe’s Overland and Adventure Day March 20 There’s always something going on at London’s Ace Cafe, but if you’ve got an adventure bike, then March 20 is the one for you. The Overland and Adventure Bike Day starts at 9am and the car park promises to be rammed full of adventurous riding types. London.acecafe.com 3 Cadwell Park MSV trackday March 20 Winter…

Andy Price Age 54 Height 5ft 11in Current bike Speed Triple RR, Z900RS, Streetfighter V4, Daytona Super 3 Been riding 34 years I had my heart set on the Speed Triple RS but after testing one I was disappointed with its overfirm suspension, even with the damping on minimum. I had a Speed Triple S, which I sold to get the RS, but looking back it was a much better bike for the road. I ordered the RR after sitting on one in the showroom and fell in love with its looks. I was set for the red one but after seeing it in white in the flesh I much preferred it. It’s wristy on the motorway and through traffic, but out in the twisties its fine. I’d like the…

T-plane crank and lighter shaft drive The Tiger 1200’s triple may have the same 1160cc capacity and 90mm bore and 60.7mm stroke as the Speed Triple 1200 RS but while it was developed in conjunction with the naked bike’s engine and some components are shared, it is actually very different. Like the 900s, the Tiger 1200 has the firm’s ‘T-plane’ crank with its irregular 180-270-270-degree firing order whereas the naked bike (and the old Tiger 1200 models) run an even 240-degree firing order. According to Triumph, this arrangement gives the bike enhanced low-down tractability, which is better suited to adventure riding. The cams, engine tune and crank balancers are bespoke to the Tiger and so is its gearbox, which has been optimised to suit the adventurer, and an all-new 1.5kg…

Saving you money on essential bike maintenance BRUCE DUNN MCN’s expert technician 1 The beauty of belts Cambelts are an iconic feature of Ducati’s twin-cylinder engines. Looping around the crank, they drive the camshafts, which in turn actuate the valves. But they need regular servicing – typically two to five years depending on the age of the bike – and given the critical role they play this schedule needs to be faithfully stuck to and OE-spec belts always used. 2 Going under cover To gain access to the belts you need to remove the covers for both the horizontal and vertical cylinders. The covers on this 2006 Monster 695 are held in place with three 5mm Allen screws. At this point you should also remove the seat and tilt the…

‘It’s harder than corralling cats’ One race into the new year, and already the headmaster and staff have been caning the junior boys. Naughty-boy Dennis Foggia (very much favourite for the Moto3 championship) was given double – no treble – sanctions, making damn sure he wasn’t going to win the first race of his campaign. Joining him in the sin bin, teammate Suzuki and erstwhile pole qualifier Izan Guevara (rebel by name, rebel by nature). This is Moto3, where misbehaviour is par for the course, and ramping up sanctions likewise. Even so, a pit-lane start plus a long-lap penalty, plus two more long-lap penalties, seemed rather harsh for the swarthy Italian, robbed of the championship last season by too many mistakes early in the year. Over several years punishment of…