Table of contents for 4 August 2021 in MCN

‘Football didn’t come home in 2021, but Cal is’MATT BIRT ON CAL’S RETURN P66 MOTOGP Cal’s back, but what can he do? Whether you’re a fan or not, Cal certainly always manages to inject a bit of drama into MotoGP. So the news that the three-time winner is making wildcard appearances at the Austrian double header AND Silverstone is certainly exciting. But, given that he’ll be riding Morbidelli’s bike — the slowest machine on the grid — what can we honestly expect? Matt Birt gives us his take... OPINION PAGE 66 TOP STORY Fully dressed for success BMW’s imposing R18 cruiser has spawned two new models for those with touring intentions — the R18 B ‘Bagger’ and the R18 Transcontinental. Both bikes have the same basic architecture as the R18…

The National Motorcycle Museum have cut back their opening times to three days a week due to staff shortages caused by Covid. Both the collection and food court will be open from 8.30am to 5.30pm Friday to Sunday going forwards, with plans to return to seven days when the situation allows. There’s no need to prebook. Head to www.nationalmotorcyclemuseum.co.uk for more. Still well worth a visit. Vintage celebration The Vintage Motorcycle Club (VMCC) is marking its 75th anniversary with a special two-day event at Cadwell Park this month, featuring vintage solo and sidecar machines dating back to the 1930s. Taking place on August 14-15, adult spectator tickets are available in advance for £14. You can also expect plenty of displays and parades from historic road and race bikes. Book online…

ASSISTANT EDITOR (MOTORCYCLING) Humberside Police have a new weapon in the fight against bike theft and anti-social riding, in the shape of a dedicated motorbike unit. The newly formed team is made up of 12 officers from Humberside’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams and members of Hull City Council. Equipped with Honda CRF300s, officers will be able to pursue suspects wherever they go but it’s not all about high speed chases and making arrests. “Since launching, we have already spoken to lots of people in the community who have been really pleased to see our officers out on motorbikes,” said Inspector Mark Peasgood who is leading the new taskforce. “The team, working with the council, will be looking to build and develop existing relationships with local bikers, businesses and residents which will…

American emissions documents have revealed that Ducati are working on an SP version of the Streetfighter V4. The documents List the same power figure as the current model (202bhp or 152kW), suggesting that just Like the PanigaLe V4 SP, the Streetfighter V4 SP is Likely to be a host for some fancy parts and a big pricetag. If Ducati follow the recipe to the Letter then we can expect carbon fibre wheels (likely BST), uprated braking duties thanks to Stylema R calipers and an MCS master cylinder, as well as a dry clutch conversion for that classic Ducati rattle. There’s also likely to be other extra touches, mudguards made from carbon fibre for instance, and a flashy SP paintjob. ‘Expect a price tag hovering around £27,000’ The V4 SP costs…

LS2 All-terrain gloves £40.99 These gloves are made from tough and durable goatskin, so they’re also soft and supple. It’s double-layered at the palm and other key areas. Level 1-certified TPU protectors cover the knuckles. The short cuff design sits easily under riding jackets, and has an adjustable hook and loop closure for a secure fit. They come in men’s sizes S-2XL) and ladies’ sizes XS-L in black, black/blue, grey/red and black/yellow. www.ls2helmets.com Kappa Rambler RB100 side bags £149.99 For café racer types who still want to head out of the city for weekends away, this pair of 14-litre side bags should provide just enough capacity for all your must-have gear. They’ve got roll-top openings, waterproof zips and removable waterproof linings to protect your smalls from the inevitable rain, and…

We’ve got together with bigbikebook.com to offer 200 MCN readers the chance to get 20% off the stylish Shorebreak design of the Shoei NXR TC2 motorcycle helmet at www.bigbikebook.com The Shoei NXR Shorebreak TC2 is a fullface helmet for high-performance sports riding in comfort, safety, and style. Boasting a compact, aerodynamic design with rear spoiler, optimum ventilation and CWR-1 visor system, the NXR was a seventh new design in less than five years from the Japanese manufacturer – once again proving SHOEI’s dedication to research and innovation in helmet design and technology. Featuring a shell constructed from AIM (an organic and multicomposite fibre layered for optimum shock-absorbance and rigidity) with an EPS liner system consisting of various densities, the NXR delivers real protection, plus there’s a detachable and washable 3D…

Plugging in to the future of motorcycling “I’ve been riding bikes since I was 18 years old and at 21 went from a scooter to a Buell Lightning. Since then I’ve had mainly adventure bikes - my work as an Apple computers consultant sees me travelling in and out of London with panniers full of the equipment. But switching to electric has been on my mind. “Apple have committed to being 100% carbon neutral in their stores and offices and seeing as I work on their products, it seemed reasonable that I should do the same. So this year I explored the electric motorcycle route. I looked at Zero’s range and eventually decided that the Black Forest model - it has panniers, crash protection, a good screen and is comfortable…

Q Insurance refund? There haven’t been many positives to come out of all the lockdowns, but some of my friends have had refunds on their insurance policies for using their cars and bikes less during the lockdowns. I probably only rode my bike about four times during the last year or so, but I haven’t heard anything. Is there a legal loophole or some other way I can make them give me a refund? Dylan, email A Latest figures from the Department for Transport show that there was drop of around 25% in accidents involving injuries on the road last year, and injury claims usually involve much bigger settlements than mere mechanical damage to vehicles involved. As you can imagine, many of the insurance companies have done very well out…

Reader Alan Rodgerson The trip Exploring Scotland How many miles? 1400 When to do it Around the longest day for the best light Time required Three days, but you could space it out over more Tell us about the ride I’ve just had a fantastic three days away up in Scotland. I set off on Friday morning at 6am, then covered 545 miles of Scotland’s west coast before finishing at Ullapool. On day two I did the NC500 clockwise from Ullapool on my first-generation Hayabusa (killed the tyres in the process; don’t use sports rubber up there). Day three consisted of getting new tyres - front wheel bearings were rough, so got them done too. Fewer miles done that day, getting home via the oldest distillery in Scotland in Creiff…

KEY TO THE AREA ■ SOUTH WEST ■ CENTRAL ■ NORTH & SCOTLAND ■ SOUTH EAST Wednesday 4 August BIKE MEETS ■ Squires Cafe Newthorpe near Sherburn in Elmet West Yorks, squires-cafe.co.uk ■ The Blue Anchor Southport Merseyside 7pm Facebook: Southport Carousel Bike Meet ■ Seaways - Bike Night Seaways Fridaythorpe E Yorks 4-8pm seawayscafe.co.uk ■ The Old Stores Pontblyddyn Mold 6-9pm 07548-224866 ■ The Plough Cadsden, Nr Princess Risborough Bucks www.plough-at-cadsden.co.uk ■ Paignton Seafront Devon www.bmad.co.uk ■ Loomies Moto Cafe West Meon Hantsloomiescafe.co.uk ■ Ryka’s Cafe Box Hill, Surrey www.rykas.co.uk RIDING SCHOOLS ■ California Superbike School Cadwell Park Lincs From £480 superbikeschool.co.uk SPEEDWAY ■ Birmingham Brummies West Midlands www.birmingham-speedway.com ■ Poole Pirates Dorset www.poolepirates.co/ TRIALS ■ Bassenthwaite & DMC Ltd Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum, Cumbria bassenthwaiteanddistrictmc@gmail.com ■ XHG…

‘Yorkshire weekender’ R5K MEMBER PAUL LOW I had a great 130-mile ride from my home near Thirsk, over to Reeth for breakfast, and then up to the Tan Hill Inn. The weather was scorching, and I’ve never seen so many bikers out on one day. Luckily my hat fits nicely in my NC750’s storage! ‘Scotland in the summertime’ R5K MEMBER RICHARD PENNA This was a 300-mile day trip with three friends from County Durham. The highlight was the A701 from Peebles to Moffat. We’ve had two longer tours to Scotland this year, travelling 1300 and 1700 miles. We hope to go to France and Spain later this year if restrictions allow. ‘Birthday ride out’ R5K MEMBER ANGI TODD My birthday ride from Hinckley to the Super Sausage in Towcester, across…

NAME Mike Britt Age 53 Height: 5ft 11in Current bike Honda CRF250 Rally Been riding Since 17 years old First bike Mobylette Moped Dream bike Yamaha RD350 YPVS “I returned to biking about seven years ago and sampled a CRF250 a few times. I always enjoyed how fun they were. I decided to take the plunge and get into greenlane riding and did the typical newbie mistake of buying a bike that was way too big and heavy for me (a KTM 790 Adventure) and so, after a year of struggling, I bought the CRF. It’s like the 125 you always wanted. And you can just about keep up with traffic when on the road. “The wonderful thing about a CRF is that not only are they great fun to…

Triumph’s smaller-capacity, more novice-friendly, basic and affordable T100 version of its Bonneville was already one of the marque’s best – but less celebrated – bikes. Launched in 2017 as part of Triumph’s revised modern classic family, the 54bhp, 900cc twin was the gentler alternative to the 79bhp, 1200cc T120. And with a single disc set-up, no rider modes and simpler trim it was £1500 cheaper, too. For 2021, Euro5 has prompted a refresh and the T100 gains a healthy power boost – but is it noticeably better? 1 Extra power The 900cc HT (High Torque) version of the parallel twin has not only been tweaked to comply with Euro5, it’s been lightened internally to make it more responsive, is higher revving (by 500rpm) and thus more powerful (from 54 to…

1 Richa Toulon 2 £299.99 I use it for commuting, leisure rides, and a bit of off-roading. It’s held up well, but some inner stitching has frayed, and the hood straps can come loose. Jamie Jeffrey, Medway 2 Harley-Davidson Vanocker Waterproof £458 I love it. I have had no issues with quality. I have all of the optional armour, too. Martyn Fordham, Ely 3 RST Tractech Evo 3 £279.99 It zips to my RST trousers. Quality is impressive and it’s comfy. I’ve seen zips fail on others. Matt Sutherland, Sleaford 4 Enginehawk Hawkeye UV £379 It’s been really good, if a bit too warm in summer. I’d like to be able to zip it to my jeans, though. Bob Smith, Notts 5 Hideout Touring Jacket £600-£654 I’ve had mine for…

Seasoned mechanic Kevin ‘Tepi’ Hollingsworth at Doncaster Motorcycles is amazed at how little attention some riders pay to their brakes, and particularly the rear. He said: “Some people you can take the piss out of gently, others respond to a serious chat. Big Dukes and Aprilias often get air in the rear brake system, but when you tell ’em, they say, ‘I’ll wait until the next service’, while young riders always claim they never use the rear brake. Trouble is, you don’t need it until you need it – then it’s too late! “This young lad came in on his Yamaha YZF-R125 a few weeks ago with a ‘noisy rear brake’ and you could see one side was down to the backing plate, so we advised him not to ride…

Getting the inside line on grand prix racing since 1996 Scenic, short and super scary. That’s pretty much how you’d summarise Austria’s jaw-dropping Red Bull Ring to a MotoGP newbie. Snaking through the spectacular Styrian mountains, it has the lowest number of corners of any current venue. But its 10-turn layout is not one for the faint-hearted. It might have a modest top speed record of 199mph, yet it boasts the highest average speed of any track on the calendar. And its 4318-metre layout is an overload of full-throttle acceleration and brutal braking points with very little margin for error. Without manageable power and front-end stability, you haven’t got a hope of success at the Red Bull Ring. Ducati are blessed with both in abundance, and it wouldn’t be a…

Danny Kent has become the 80th rider to claim a podium in the modern era of the BSB series. Using the popular combination of a wet front and intermediate rear tyre, the 27-year-old took Hawk Racing to its first top three finish since Kyle Ryde’s double win at Silverstone last year. Making the most of mixed conditions, his Thruxton success was a reminder of Kent’s British GP victory at Silverstone in 2015. On that occasion, the then Moto3 rider dominated in horrendous weather en route to that year’s world title. “After everything we’ve been through, this is mega,” Kent said afterwards. “It’s been a long two years. A huge thank you to Stuart and Steve Hicken for giving me an opportunity nobody else gave. I want to repay them with…

Ducati always seem to put racetrack spirit into whatever bike they build. With their sweet-handling chassis and thundering V-twin power plants, the firm’s ST range of sports-tourers from the late ‘90s/early 2000s are no exception. Mixing sweet handling and punchy V-twin stomp with great practicality and all-day comfort, the two-valve 944cc ST2 and four-valve ST4 have enough performance to entertain. But neither quite hit the mark like the later ST4S, with its Őhlins shock and 996-based motor. You won’t find as many ST4Ss out there as they were only manufactured for four years, from 2001. The 2003 bikes had optional ABS, but from 2004 the ST4S had a slight update and they’re the ones that are snapped up quickly. The clutch feels heavy and the seat firm but you’ll find…

Ducati always seem to put racetrack spirit into whatever bike they build. With their sweet-handling chassis and thundering V-twin power plants, the firm’s ST range of sports-tourers from the late ‘90s/early 2000s are no exception. Mixing sweet handling and punchy V-twin stomp with great practicality and all-day comfort, the two-valve 944cc ST2 and four-valve ST4 have enough performance to entertain. But neither quite hit the mark like the later ST4S, with its Őhlins shock and 996-based motor. You won’t find as many ST4Ss out there as they were only manufactured for four years, from 2001. The 2003 bikes had optional ABS, but from 2004 the ST4S had a slight update and they’re the ones that are snapped up quickly. The clutch feels heavy and the seat firm but you’ll find…

Ducati always seem to put racetrack spirit into whatever bike they build. With their sweet-handling chassis and thundering V-twin power plants, the firm’s ST range of sports-tourers from the late ’90s/early 2000s are no exception. Mixing sweet handling and punchy V-twin stomp with great practicality and all-day comfort, the two-valve 944cc ST2 and four-valve ST4 have enough performance to entertain. But neither quite hit the mark like the later ST4S, with its Őhlins shock and 996-based motor. You won’t find as many ST4Ss out there as they were only manufactured for four years, from 2001. The 2003 bikes had optional ABS, but from 2004 the ST4S had a slight update and they’re the ones that are snapped up quickly. The clutch feels heavy and the seat firm but you’ll find…

I don’t know about you, but I watched the Thruxton BSB action through the gaps in my hands. How the riders manage to tame those 230bhp monsters (and Superstockers, too) around a circuit like Thruxton simply beggars belief. Watching them going three abreast at 150mph into the same tiny square of apex left me physically breathless. British circuits are truly unique, and we’re so lucky that we can enjoy watching full-on superbikes competing on them. You’d have to wonder, though, if tracks like Thruxton (flat-out corners), Cadwell (a jump in the middle) and Oulton (more undulations than an MX track) were to be proposed to be built from scratch today whether the health and safety brigade would allow them. You’ve got to wonder then how the public consultation for the…

NEWS EDITOR The American government has requested that the employment details of Anne Sacoolas, the woman suspected of causing Harry Dunn’s death, should not be disclosed in the interests of ‘national security’. The family of the biker who was struck by a vehicle travelling on the wrong side of the road have been forced to pursue a civil case in America, after Sacoolas fled to the US claiming diplomatic immunity. The latest twist centres around her claim of immunity. Under a strange and archaic law, American nationals who worked at RAF Croughton, near where Harry died, agreed to waive their rights to diplomatic immunity. However their dependents did not, so as the wife of Jonathan Sacoolas, a US government employee at the base, Anne Sacoolas claimed diplomatic immunity. It has…

£11,795 Honda CRF1000 Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT The Adventure Sports version of the Africa Twin is certainly the one to go for if you are a road rider who wants a mile-muncher. This 2019 model’s 24.2-litre fuel capacity increases the tank range to a theoretical 300+ miles, placing it firmly among the adventure bike class’s grand tourers. www.bransonsmotorcycles.co.uk SAVE £1251 £7250 Piaggio MP3 Sport The MP3 be ridden on a car licence, so convert your tin-box mates to three wheels with this money off and 0% finance deal from via-moto.co.uk • Engine 278cc • Power 25bhp • Weight 225kg • Seat height 790mm SAVE £1000 £13,000 Triumph Thruxton RS Thruxton RS buyers can get £1000 to use against the bike or official clothing and accessories. www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/latest-offers • Engine 1200cc…

Muc-Off have introduced what they claim is the world’s first plastic-free bike cleaner called Punk Powder. The cleaner, which comes in powder form, requires water to be added before use. Each pouch produces a litre of liquid cleaner and a two-pack costs £14.99. As with all Muc-Off products it is made to a biodegradable formula and is safe on all surfaces. Head to www.muc-off.com to find out more. Fit for a King Hairy Biker Simon King is selling two of his custom bikes. The auction for his Cosmic King closed on August 3, but if you’re quick you can still bid on the Purple Haze until 5pm on August 5. The 1638cc chopper started life as a charity project built by Nick Gale and was bought by King at auction…

Thought BMW’s R18 cruiser was pretty unique? Well now you can make it an even rarer beast by bolting on this eye-popping Watsonian outfit. Watsonian’s latest sidecar matches the lines of the bike and the firm say its shape is evocative of BMW sportscars of the past. This visual link is helped by hand-painted pinstriping on the nose in the shape of the radiator grilles seen on 1930s BMW sportscars. Meanwhile hand-painted detailing on the rear of the sidecar matches the rear mudguard of the bike. It sits on a specially-designed chassis, with independent suspension, and an R18 front wheel for balance. In order to mount the sidecar as close the motorcycle as possible, a section of the nose was removed and a heat shield fitted, to accommodate the large…

Every week we give a different rider a wodge of fictional cash and ask them to ‘buy’ the bike that sets their soul on fire. This is Jon Urry’s pick... MCN used bike expert and general all-round motorcycle pervert Jon Urry, has a keen eye on the classifieds. A man bordering on requiring a restraining order when it comes to eBay, Jon has a collection of bikes ranging from veteran through to modern, nearly all bought on impulse. But loaded with an imaginary £5K, what would he buy? “Visually challenging, unreliable, questionable emissions - enough about me, let’s talk about the bike I’d buy. The Bimota Mantra,” says Jon. “I have a soft spot for unique, first generation models or oddballs, and few are as weird or wacky as the…

mcn.letters@motorcyclenews.com motorcyclenews motorcyclenews MCNnews In defence of cheap airbags I’ve just read your article on cheap airbag vests, which you clearly advise against buying, and would like to share a different viewpoint. I agree that quoting ‘life vest’ testing is hardly reassuring, even though inflation times and other elements of this testing are directly relevant to airbag vests. However, I have one of these vests, which looks like a direct copy of a Spidi vest that costs six times the price. The fabric looks similar to motorcycle clothing, the seams feel strong, and I have test fired it. It inflated instantly, felt firm and robust, and held its pressure. Would it wear, or burst in real use? The testing suggests it won’t pop, and the fabric looks like it will…

1 Rufforth autojumble Between York and Wetherby, the autojumble takes place on the first Saturday of every month. Entry is a modest £2. www.rufforthautojumble.com 2 Barbers Ride 7-12 August, this charity bike ride was dreamt up by biking barbers who have raised over £66k for charity since 2017. barbersride.com 3 North East classic car and motorcycle show Hardwick Hall Hotel in Durham on Sunday August 8. Adult £9, child £3.50, classic vehicle £5. classicshows.org 4 Lowestoft bike and car show Free to enter classic bike show, newer bikes welcome. August 7, 10am-4pm, Annatar, Lowestoft. allevents.in…

FRIDAY 6 August 8am, BTS2, Live MotoGP, Austria: starting with Free practice 1 SATURDAY 7 August 8am, BTS2, Live MotoGP, Austria: Free practice 2 and qualifying SUNDAY 8 August 8.15am, EUR2, WSB from Czech Republic: Superpole and Race 1 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 - TRAVEL UK…

MCN CONTRIBUTOR MCN 250 MILE ROAD TEST ● THE HOTTEST BIKES ● EVERY WEEK £6039 Honda CRF300 Rally ● 286cc liquid-cooled single cylinder DOHC 4v ● 27bhp @ 8500rpm ● 153kg kerb weight £4599 Royal Enfield Himalayan ● 411cc air-cooled 2-valve single SOHC ● 24.3.9bhp @ 6500rpm ● 199kg kerb weight Adventure bikes come in all shapes and sizes and while some are dripping in technology, there is a lot to be said for the charms offered by more basic lightweights such as the pair we are testing here on the MCN250. Bikes such as the Royal Enfield Himalayan and Honda CRF300 Rally appeal to riders who want to take a step back to a time when adventuring was far less complicated… and expensive. Plus, if you want to do…

2003 FIRST BIKE ‘After the first MDF prototype fell apart, I made the next version out of plywood and it was much better. The design’s not changed that much since.’ 2011 DRAGONS’ DEN Simon appeared on BBC show Dragons’ Den after a last-minute application. He got offers from two Dragons but post-show talks meant he didn’t end up taking them up. After the show was aired, Kiddimoto took orders from John Lewis, Hamleys and more… 2015 ROYAL APPROVAL ‘We were awarded the Queen’s Award for International Trade for achieving an excess of 20% growth year-on-year for over three years. And we actually got to meet the Queen!’ 2016 BREXIT ‘We were buying from China in US dollars, so when the exchange rate fell 25%, it hit us hard. Fortunately, we…

While the T120 Bonneville remains the benchmark retro roadster, the T100 has always been the temptingly-priced (the 2017 original was £1500 less) little brother whose softer performance mattered little considering the sort of bike it was. With this new version, due to its 10bhp power boost and now £1700 saving, that’s more true than ever. Yes, it lacks the edgier oomph of the T120, but in every other respect it’s just as classy. Overall, it’s a credible retro offering that’s both pleasing and easy to ride. Maybe this time round it’ll get the recognition and respect it deserves. THE FACTS £9100 2021 Triumph Bonneville T100 Engine 900cc parallel twin, liquid cooled DOHC four stroke Suspension (F) 41mm telescopic forks, suspension non-adjustable (R) Twin shocks suspension preload adjustable Brakes (F) 310mm…

Saving you money on essential bike maintenance BRUCE DUNN MCN’s expert technician 1 Know your values Checking engine compression is an essential part of fault diagnosis. You are measuring the efficiency of the piston, rings, bore and valves as they compress the air/fuel mixture. Worn rings or a damaged piston will give low readings. Check the workshop manual for the specific procedure for your bike, and the correct compression values. 2 Warm it up Once you have checked the manual, warm the bike up to the normal operating temperature. This is necessary because the piston and rings, as well as the cylinder wall, will all expand with the heat and give the correct clearances. Once up to temperature, turn the bike off and start to remove the parts needed to…

ROADS REPORTER Michael Dunlop won all five races he started and set a new outright lap record at last weekend’s Armoy road races. It was the first Irish between-the-hedges event of 2021 and 5000 spectators turned out to watch the local hero take his ninth consecutive victory in the feature Race of Legends race around the three-mile roads course. The Co. Antrim village that hosts the races is synonymous with the famous ‘Armoy Armada’ racing quartet of Frank Kennedy, Mervyn Robinson and the Dunlop brothers, Joey and Jim. Their 19 times TT-winning nephew, who lives just a few miles from the circuit, began his victory run on a 250cc TSR Honda liveried in the colours of his famous uncle’s RC30. Dunlop held off a strong challenge from Derek McGee to…

STATISTICS • Length 2.68miles • Corners 10 3 left, 7 right • Longest straight 626m Lap record Best race lap 2020 Top five 2021 Title standings ONE TO WATCH Eight of Johann Zarco’s 11 MotoGP podiums have been second place, including four already in 2021. Ducati’s enviable record at the Red Bull Ring means there’s no better place for a return of the Frenchman’s famous backflip celebration. WHAT HAPPENED IN 2020 Both races were red-flagged last year with Ducati making it five wins out of five with Dovi’s third success in Austria before Miguel Oliveira became Portugal’s first MotoGP winner after Pol Espargaro and Jack Miller tangled in the final corner.…

MATTHEW BIRT REPORTING FROM THE HEART OF MOTOGP Cal Crutchlow has never been one to shirk a challenge – which is just as well considering what lies in store for the Briton over the next month or so. The 35-year-old will step out of racing retirement to jump on injured Franco Morbidelli’s Petronas Yamaha SRT machine in the next three MotoGPs. That includes a double-header at the Red Bull Ring and then an unexpected return to his home round at Silverstone on August 29. If you had to pick two tracks on the current schedule to race MotoGP’s oldest and slowest bike, Austria’s fearsomely-fast Red Bull Ring and ultra-rapid Silverstone probably wouldn’t figure too closely towards the top. You certainly wouldn’t want to be racing the aging YZR-M1 at the…

Racing in a time machine Thruxton was a proper old-school weekend, on a proper old-school British airfield circuit and all the more refreshing for it. In BSB, even the commercial traits of 21st-century racing is clunky. Witness the top-three riders holding up their sticker-rich helmets in “Alas, Poor Yorick” fashion for the TV interviews. Then spraying the victory bubbly not over resentfully scowling, logo-festooned glamour girls on an elevated podium, but happy-looking ground-level fans instead. There were even sidecars. And most nostalgic of all? Fans. It made for a real feel-good weekend. Just like the good old days. And a complete contrast to the high-end MotoGP season, set to begin again this weekend. This is not to sound patronising. I wasn’t at Thruxton, I watched on TV, but there were…

Despite the challenges of the last 18 months, Triumph has been forging ahead and making new waves in the motorcycling world. Perfect timing The British brand has taken the time to find new partnerships and has revealed that it is ready to explore new horizons with respected watch brand, Breitling. The Swiss watchmaker is known for its high-precision timepieces and its pioneering role in the development of the wrist chronograph, while Triumph was instrumental in passionately helping shape the evolution of the motorcycle. The duo will be releasing a limited-edition watch and a customized motorcycle, to be revealed in early 2022. Triumph Motorcycles CEO Nick Bloor welcomed the chance to collaborate with another established heritage brand. “Like Breitling we’re committed to providing the flawless handling and incredible finishes that give…

Despite the challenges of the last 18 months, Triumph has been forging ahead and making new waves in the motorcycling world. Perfect timing The British brand has taken the time to find new partnerships and has revealed that it is ready to explore new horizons with respected watch brand, Breitling. The Swiss watchmaker is known for its high-precision timepieces and its pioneering role in the development of the wrist chronograph, while Triumph was instrumental in passionately helping shape the evolution of the motorcycle. The duo will be releasing a limited-edition watch and a customized motorcycle, to be revealed in early 2022. Triumph Motorcycles CEO Nick Bloor welcomed the chance to collaborate with another established heritage brand. “Like Breitling we’re committed to providing the flawless handling and incredible finishes that give…

Honda UK have yet again teamed up with customiser Guy Willison to create another short run of specials. This latest model, limited once more to just 54 individually numbered units, is built around a stock CB1000R with no changes to the chassis, engine, or electronics (barring the addition of an OE quickshifter) – meaning it retains all of its riding character, competence and ease of use. Where the 5Four steps out on its own is a raft of small cosmetic changes that add up to a complete transformation. The standout change comes from the special ‘Honda Endurance’ paintjob with hand-painted Honda wing tank logo. The scheme extends to the hand-crafted headlamp cowl, single seat unit and hand-stitched diamond pattern leather seat with laser-etched 5Four logo. The stock numberplate hanger comes…

Roof Boxer V8 £209.98 ‘Quirky, original and fun’ We’ve taken a different direction this week in our search for the best bargains on the internet. Rather than look for traditional kit, we’ve opted for quirky, less conventional gear. With so many styles on the market, it’s been tricky to choose what to include but hopefully you’ll find something that catches your eye and is a bargain to boot. Take this Roof Boxer V8 helmet; it must be one of the quirkiest and most distinctive lids ever made. It first hit the market in 1995 and since then has evolved into one of the coolest flip-front helmets you can buy. It’s made from fibreglass and is dual homologated, so can be worn as a full or open-faced lid. The chin bar…

We’ve got together with Sidi to give away a pair of Adventure 2 Gore boots. The first version of these boots gained a loyal following, becoming almost the default choice among experienced adventure riders, offering good protection for the shin and the ankles, while still being flexible enough to walk in. The new and improved boot offers a full grain Technomicro Microfibre and suede upper, lined with Gore-Tex waterproof-breathable membrane. It features a non-slip rubber sole with a nylon inner and removeable arch support. The boot is secured with a Velcro strap and two buckles and has plastic support on the ankle area. HOW TO ENTER Simply visit www.motorcyclenews.com/winsidiadventure2 and submit your details to be included in the prize draw. Good luck! TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize draw closes at…

When people hear what I do for a living, the most common question is, “what’s the best bike you’ve ever ridden?” But perhaps a better question would be, “what bike would you buy?” because test riding and owning are two very different things... I’ve been testing bikes since 2001, so I’ve been lucky enough to experience some exceptional machines. The Ducati 1098R stands out. Would I buy one? I’d love to, but I don’t have £20k of disposable cash! Then there is the Buell Firebolt, which I ran for a year as an MCN longtermer in 2002 and had no end of trouble with, but I absolutely loved its character. Would I buy one? No way. I also have very fond memories of riding the 2015 YZF-R1 around Australia’s Eastern…

The Isle of Wight Road Races have set a date, set a venue and begun the consultation process in the next step to ensuring the event goes ahead without a hitch. The IoW RR was announced shortly after the Diamond Races, another race set to take place on the island, was postponed until October 2021. Unlike the Diamond Races, which were to be time trials with a single rider against the clock, the IoW races will be mass start with up to 15 riders on the grid. The plan is for a 12.4-mile course through Chale, Shorwell and Brighstone using a long stretch of the Military Road. The paddock will be based at Atherfield with all the action taking place between April 20-23, 2022. The races are being organised by…

MCN readers share their favourite one-hour routes If you love exploring on two wheels, you can’t go far wrong in Wales. This short loop begins and ends in Dolgellau and takes in challenging twisty roads, coastal views and quaint villages along the way. Head west from Dolgellau on the A470 and then take the A493. The views of the sea along this stretch are incredible so make sure you keep an eye on the road! The A493 eventually cuts inland with views of the mountains in the distance and sweeping bends to keep you busy. I’d recommend an ice-cream in Aberdyfi, and there’s plenty of parking here too. The next stretch has some slightly dodgy road surfaces but if offers beautiful views of the river estuary so take your time…

The Motorcycle Road Racing Exhibition is just one event in Hanworth County Park’s packed calendar, but this two-wheeled celebration is taking place this Sunday, so don’t miss it! What’s happening? Situated just outside Lincoln, Hanworth Country Park is hosting a Festival of Bikes event focusing on a Motorcycle Road Racing Exhibition. The idyllic location will host bikes from the ’70s and ’80s including the infamous and frankly scary Kenny Roberts TZ750 flat track racer. British Superbike star Jason O’Halloran will be there to meet and greet from 12pm, as well as TT road racer Dave Jackson. Plus, you’ll be sure to get the best commentary as ex-BSB and TT star Steve Plater will be at the helm! The essential stuff The event takes place on Sunday Aug 8 from 11am.…

It’s Britain’s toughest road test route. A fun but punishing mix of A- and B-roads, busy motorway, towns and villages. It’s all Britain’s road types compressed into one route. There are three sections and we combine the two that best test the bike’s character. On average we ride 450 miles per bike, per test. MCN 250 MILE ROAD TEST ● THE HOTTEST BIKES ● EVERY WEEK ROUTE 1 122.73 miles of fast-flowing A and B-roads ROUTE 2 126.94 miles of open A and B-roads and towns ROUTE 3 117.88 miles of big A roads and motorway WEATHER WATCH Dry and sunny 18-degrees 11mph west wind…

By giving their popular CRF250 a bit of extra poke, Honda have created a bike that is perfect for exploring the UK’s green lanes, and road miles can now be tackled with ease. Whereas the old 250 screamed at 60mph, the new CRF300 will cruise at 70mph. You could ride the CRF a few hundred miles into Wales, spend a weekend trail riding and then come home again, something that was far from ideal on the 250. Could you do the same on the Enfield? Not quite so effectively. The Himalayan has been a huge seller and you can see why. It’s a solid plodder that looks rugged and costs very little. If speed isn’t a priority, and you aren’t too fussed about trail riding, it makes for a characterful,…

GUEST TESTER The taller screen, roomier riding position and slimmer tank add comfort. Better pillion provision adds versatility and the new TFT dash, switchgear and LED lights are modern upgrades that help keep the Tuono up to date. But those sometimes subtle improvements are overshadowed by the biggest news of all: despite Euro5, the Tuono is still the most barking, brilliant and besthandling ‘super-naked’ of all. This understated, classy, ‘base’ version is the thinking man’s Italian exotica – stratospherically fast, sophisticated, sexy and sublime yet now more day-to-day usable than ever. THE FACTS £15,500 Aprilia Tuono V4…

☆☆☆☆☆ Kreiga R15 backpack £115 ‘If Carlsberg made back packs’ Tested by: Michael Guy for seven years/5000 miles Kreiga have been making the R15 backpack for 12 years and I’ve owned mine for the last seven. During that time I’ve used other rucksacks and camel backs. They’ve all been and gone, but the Kreiga has proved to be my bag of choice. For me it’s the perfect size. Big enough to hold two litres of water in the camel back, plus tools, spare gloves and a waterproof, but not so big that it’s ever a pain when riding thanks to the waist and chest strap stopping it from bouncing around. I’ve raced rallies with it, been green lanning, ridden across Spain, and – apart from being dirty and looking a…

A compression test measures the efficiency of the piston rings and valves to seal the compressed air/fuel mixture prior to it being ignited. A poor compression reading on one or more cylinders will need further investigation. So, what should you do if you get a low reading? The first logical step is to have a good visual check around the joint of the cylinder head and barrels for a head gasket leak; any traces of oil or coolant coming from where the head meets the block are signs that the gasket may need replacing. If all appears to be OK, the next suspect is the valve clearances. If not regularly checked, valve clearances diminish as the mileage racks up, so much so that sometimes the valves don’t seal at all,…

‘Great to have a Brit to cheer on in MotoGP’ This has been a massively intriguing year – but a year that is totally different to last year. I don’t know what to expect, but I am expecting something great at the Red Bull Ring this weekend. Austria is a weird track, but it produces great racing. It’s a track I’d love to go to – it looks beautiful, is really epic and it generally comes down to a B52 dive bomb into the final corner. It’s a bit like Assen where it comes down to the final chicane and whether you’re watching or racing you feel the pressure building lap after lap. I’m interested to see what Marquez can do, but in my opinion he’s only going to get…

Despite the challenges of the last 18 months, Triumph has been forging ahead and making new waves in the motorcycling world. Perfect timing The British brand has taken the time to find new partnerships and has revealed that it is ready to explore new horizons with respected watch brand, Breitling. The Swiss watchmaker is known for its high-precision timepieces and its pioneering role in the development of the wrist chronograph, while Triumph was instrumental in passionately helping shape the evolution of the motorcycle. The duo will be releasing a limited-edition watch and a customized motorcycle, to be revealed in early 2022. Triumph Motorcycles CEO Nick Bloor welcomed the chance to collaborate with another established heritage brand. “Like Breitling we’re committed to providing the flawless handling and incredible finishes that give…