Table of contents for 1 September 2021 in MCN

BRITISH MOTOGP A weekend rammed with drama We knew the British Grand Prix was going to be a sizzler, even if the weather didn’t quite deliver the sun-baked tarmac we were hoping for. From Dixon’s debut to Rossi’s farewell, Fabio’s on-track dominance and the next chapter in this year’s twistladen rider line-up plot – it was a rollercoaster of revelations. We get under the skin of the stories that matter from the weekend. BritGP analysis from PAGE 71 NEW BIKES Official: New Triumph Tiger 1200 The biggest Tiger in the range has long been a good bike, but not a truly great one. Packing a characterful engine, excellent road comfort, and enough off-road capability to carry a trail-loving owner off the highway with ease - it does most things well,…

The Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum has been given a Tripadvisor award, naming it as one of the best attractions in the world. The museum has been bestowed with one of the 2021 Traveller’s Choice awards, which also include mad activities such a white water rafting in New Zealand, and according to Tripadvisor it places them in the top 10% of attractions to visit globally. Time to get yourself down to New Milton in Hampshire! Baby RS arriving? Kawasaki have released a video teasing a new model with the stomach-turning phrase the ‘Retrovolution is coming’. It’s expected the bike will be a Z650RS, with Kawasaki adding a retro twist to the budget twin. If it looks half as good as the Z900RS it could offer an interesting alternative to Triumph Street…

Greg Mansell, son of Formula One World Champion, Nigel Mansell, has launched a short production run of custom BMW R18s to honour his father’s successes. Until the arrival of Lewis Hamilton, Mansell was the UK’s most successful entrant into F1 taking home the world championship as well as 31 individual victories. He was also famous for his committed boom or bust racing style, which meant he ended up crashing out of more races than he won. It was his refusal to simply settle for second place that endeared him to fans the world over. The bike is named Il Leone and was designed and built at The Ramp, in Jersey. The name itself is Italian for The Lion – Mansell’s nickname during his glory years racing for Ferrari. It’s to…

Keis Heated Motorcycle Gloves £158.32 Time to prepare for autumn rides September is here, and with it the need to look further ahead and grab a bargain before the weather turns too autumnal. Thermal kit specialists Keis have these heated gloves with a decent saving. Made from a mix of leather and textile, they have carbon knuckle armour and a carbon scaphoid protector. The elasticated cuffs, with Velcro strap, ensure a snug fit and a combination of thermal and waterproof liners keep hands dry and toasty. A visor wipe on the left index finger is a welcome addition for rainy rides. There’s a heat control on each glove and they can be wired into the bike’s electrics or, if you prefer, you can purchase a separate battery pack for an…

‘The mystery of Aprilia prices’ I’ve never understood why Aprilias don’t appeal to collectors in anything like the same way as their cousins from down the road in Bologna. Just look at the 916, if you had picked up one of the early models in 2008 you would have paid roughly £4000 (I know this because I did). Nowadays that same bike would be easily worth over £8000. If at the same time you had snapped up an early RSV Mille, which would have been about £3000 for a really good one, it would now be worth... about £3500. In 2000 the firm released the RSV-SP, which was a full-on homologation special that was not only limited to 150 units but also featured a totally different motor (built by Cosworth).…

YOU’RE NEVER RIDING ALONE I am a serial worrier. I worry about how I’m how I’m perceived by others, how I’m performing at work, whether I’m looking after myself and even whether I’ve turned the oven off. I have set routines that I must follow, including exactly when each door is checked at night and when each light is switched off and I have been known to carry important luggage in the car with me, rather than the boot for fear of it magically disappearing once I close the lid. Quite frankly, it’s exhausting, and working from home during the Covid-19 pandemic hasn’t helped – often spending days at a time with minimal human contact and only my irrational thoughts for company. It’s something I need to work on in…

Q ‘Should I take courtesy bike?’ I have recently left hospital following an accident with a lorry. One of the first phone calls I received was from a company offering me a replacement motorcycle whilst mine is in the garage for repairs. I’m still recovering, so I am not even sure I could even ride at this moment in time. What should I do? Lindsay, Wigan A When considering whether to accept any replacement hire vehicle it is always important to know whether this offer is on a ‘courtesy’ or ‘credit hire’ basis. If the former then it is relatively straightforward as the courtesy vehicle is likely being paid through your insurance and not arranged through a separate company. If the latter, then you need to be careful. Credit hire…

Readers Tony Marsland The trip Took my Indian Chieftain Ltd from Coverack down in Cornwall to Tongue in North Scotland and back How many miles? 2700 Time required 17 days to make the trip and get to enjoy the view at the same time. Best time to go I went in June Tell us about the ride Riding from Coverack in Cornwall to my destination goal, the very tip of Western Scotland, was without a doubt a long trip, but made easy by the power and comfort of my Indian Chieftain Ltd. The scenery once in to Scotland is serene – mountains, lochs forests, fabulous roads. Some roads are a challenge, narrow but rewarding. I’d recommend frequent stops, just to take it all in. Oh and watch out for both…

KEY TO THE AREA ■ SOUTH WEST ■ CENTRAL ■ NORTH & SCOTLAND ■ SOUTH EAST Wednesday September 1 BIKE MEETS ■ Squires Cafe Newthorpe, West Yorks. 01977-684618 or www.squires-cafe.co.uk ■ The Old Stores Pontblyddyn, Flints. 6pm-9pm 07548-224866 ■ The Blue Anchor Southport, Merseyside. 7pm Facebook: Southport Carousel Bike Meet ■ Seaways Fridaythorpe, East Yorks. 4pm-8pm mike@seawayscafe.co.uk ■ The Plough Cadsden, Bucks www.plough-at-cadsden.co.uk ■ Paignton Seafront Devon www.bmad.co.uk ■ Loomies Moto Cafe West Meon, Hants Open till 9pm www.loomiescafe.co.uk ■ Ryka’s Cafe Box Hill, Surrey www.rykas.co.uk RIDING SCHOOLS ■ California Superbike School Bedford Autodrome, £480 www.superbikeschool.co.uk SPEEDWAY ■ Birmingham www.birmingham-speedway.com ■ Poole Pirates Dorset www.poole-speedway.com TRACKDAYS ■ MSV Cadwell Park from £119 www.MSVTrackdays.com ■ MSV Donington Park Grand Prix, Derbys from £169 www.MSVTrackdays.com ■ MSV Oulton Park (International) Cheshire from…

‘Five days in Italy’ R5K MEMBERS SEAN AND EMILY DENTON We live in Switzerland and this is the first time we have been able to tour in almost two years. The five-day trip covered Bologna, San Marino, Pisa, and more. To be touring Europe again felt great and we had forgotten how much we enjoy the freedom. ‘Enjoying foreign adventure’ R5K MEMBER JAMES READ I was away on Crete and Greece for 10 days, and rented a bike. The big thing for me is just getting away from UK roads and feeling like you’re truly ‘adventuring’ again. ‘Blind Veterans ride’ R5K MEMBER DAVID NEALE As the Blind Veterans UK ‘Ride For Life Beyond Sight Loss’ was cancelled, I decided to do my own version. I rode from Moreton-in-Marsh to the…

Ben Clarke Age 35 Height 6ft Current bike 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R Been riding 14 years First bike Yamaha XT600R Dream bike Aprilia RSV1000R Factory The laws of physics simply don’t apply when you’re riding a BMW M1000RR on the road. Even as someone who’s been riding a 200bhp Kawasaki ZX-10R as a long-term test bike this year, I struggled to get my head around the way it gathers speed. But the truly surprising thing is that when you get into a 30mph zone, the M1000RR is impeccably well-mannered. This £31k homologation special is actually more comfortable and easier to ride than my ZX-10R. Once you’re on the open road – or even better, a racetrack – on either bike, the combination of a big, fat powerband – naturally provided by the…

‘There’s only one Valentino Rossi’ Stephen Bowen from Pontypridd “I’ve been watching bikes my whole life and I’ve really been following Rossi for about 10 years. Achieving what he has, I’ve stood by him – I’ve kept supporting him. Plus I like the colour schemes – that is a bit of it. I’ve got ‘The Doctor’ on my back and the tattoos on my legs. People always come up to take a picture. “I go to BSB as well – I never miss a round – and I do WSB at Donington. I take my hat off to all the boys out there. They’re all good… Fabio’s good, Marquez is good. But there’s only one Valentino Rossi.” ‘He deserves an award’ Tracey Laverack from Bishops Stortford “I’ve been a Rossi…

Germany’s first stretch of high-speed dual carriageway was commissioned in 1913 and was used as a both a toll road and race circuit. Called Avus, the road on the Berlin outskirts included two six-mile dual carriageways linked by highspeed banked (43°!) hairpins. The track held its first race in 1921 then was opened to the public for a fee of 10 Marks. It held the 1926 and 1959 German Formula One Grand Prix. The track was finally decommissioned in 1999 following safety concerns and the straights now form part of the Bundesautobahn 115. The old control tower (which up until recently was used as a motel and restaurant) and also the wooden grandstand still remain.…

I’ve had S1000Rs for the past five years (first and second generation) and now own the latest version. I’ve fitted a fender extender, rad guards, engine covers and a neat, but quite small BMW tank bag. The overall feel and riding position are familiar to the previous bike, but the seat is slightly taller – you’re more on top of it than in it. Power is similar to the older models, but feels slightly more urgent and freer flowing, although there’s no exhaust popping on the overrun, which I miss, and I don’t like the tail light incorporated into the indicators. The TFT is just ‘wow’ and build quality is spot on.…

I don’t tend to hang onto bikes long, but I like this one – in fact, it’s all the bike I’ll ever need. It’s been 100% reliable and if I could guarantee that then it would probably be a keeper. As a package it’s really well designed, being light, fun and a real hoot to ride. With the mods that I’ve made it would make a great tool for the track, too. It’s not a machine to polish, but is what a motorcycle should be, functional without adornments. HOW GOOD IS THE RUBBER? How good is the rubber? The OE Maxxis Supermaxx STs are a compromise. I fitted Pirelli Diablo Corsa IIs, which offer loads of grip come rain or shine. Also consider MetzeLer M9 RR – £232 (120/70 17…

Saving you money on essential bike maintenance 1 Check your bearings A wheel bearing’s service Life is variable and will depend entirely on how the motorcycle is used. Symptoms of worn wheel bearings include poor handling, instability, and of course an MoT failure. With the wheel removed, a worn bearing will feel notchy and you will be able to detect movement between the hub and wheel spacer. 2 Spacers out, seals off Remove spacers and make a note of which side they go, while alsc checking their condition where they meet the bearing through the seal. With a pry-bar or screwdriver, gently prise off any dust seals above the bearings. These seals are important as they otter the first line of defence against moisture and muck. Inspect tor damage and…

JOSH CLOSE INSIGHT Our man with a finger on the pulse of BSB Snetterton is the next destination for the Bennetts British Superbike Championship for the penultimate round of the ‘main season’. We’re heading into crunch time as the race for the Showdown spots intensifies. Jason O’Halloran may be running away with things, but the battle for second is well and truly on. Here are the big questions heading to Norfolk. Can Brookes keep improving? After an horrendous start to the season, Josh Brookes found a breakthrough at Cadwell Park, picking up a pair of fifths to secure his best dry result of 2021. The reigning champion was quick to tell MCN that he wasn’t out of the woods yet, with grip still an issue. However, he said the VisionTrack…

For a few laps it looked like there was a very real chance of seeing Sam Lowes on the podium, possibly even on the top step. Lowes had the British fans cheering when he took the lead on the opening lap, then had everybody watching intently as he stalked leaders Remy Gardner and Marco Bezzecchi in the middle of the race. Sadly, in the closing stages Lowes lost third to Jorge Navarro. The dream podium eludes Lowes again, and fourth is still his personal best finish at Silverstone. “I was just missing a little something in sector two all weekend, just on the change of direction and entry,” Lowes admitted to MCN after the race. “I’m proud though. I fought hard and had a good race, there are areas where…

INSIDE THE MOTOGP PADDOCK FOR 35 Y EARS MICHAEL SCOTT It’s been strange to watch the biggest and most successful marque in racing trying to look triumphant with fifth place, at a race where their riders have taken 16 wins among many more podiums. Yet fifth this year seems something to celebrate for Honda – clutching at whatever straws may eventually turn out to be the green shoots of recovery. To be fair, Silverstone’s pole position for Pol Espargaro did offer some comfort, as the Repsol Honda team fight to regain the status they lost so comprehensively in a winless 2020 – the first in 39 years. The loss of Marc Marquez for that year was the biggest reason why. Worse still, it exposed the factory’s serious weakness, in having…

Jorge Martin took little consolation from Marc Marquez’s apology for another sloppy race incident that put both riders out on lap one at the British Grand Prix. Marquez is still coaching his body and mind back to the level that produced six Honda world championships with rookie Martin testily observing it this is clearly still very much a work in progress. Marquez apologised for his “optimistic overtake” on Martin’s Pramac Ducati at the Turn 8/9 chicane that dumped both riders. “He destroyed my race, I felt super strong with the pace to fight for at least second. I hope he learns from this and improves for the future,” Martin said. It was Marquez’s fourth DNF in ten races since returning from a serious arm injury with a frustrating journey back…

The realisation that a successful world title defence has crumbled in 12 races doesn’t sit easy with Spaniard Joan Mir. Mir and the Suzuki GSX-RR were the benchmark for race speed and consistency in 2020. But this season they have not been able to lay a glove on Fabio Quartararo and the formidable Yamaha YZR-M1. Reigning MotoGP champion Mir has zero wins in 12 races, Quartararo has five victories with Sunday’s Silverstone stroll adding to Mir’s pain. Not even Mir’s resurgent teammate Alex Rins, with his stirring second place, could paper over the cracks at Suzuki. As deserving as Rins’ podium was, it was Mir (currently a distant second in the standings) who needed the big points to keep Quartararo on his toes and under pressure with six scheduled rounds…

FAQs What’s the Festival address and hours? Peterborough Arena East of England Showground Peterborough PE2 6XE. Saturday September 4, 9am-6pm Sunday September 5, 9am-5pm. Parking is free of charge at the Festival. What are the opening/closing times for the campsite? Campers can access the campsite from 4pm on Friday, Sept 3 and are required to leave the campsite by 7.30pm on Sunday, Sept 5. Test rides We do not charge for test rides and we cannot guarantee a test ride when you purchase your ticket. Visitors are required to book test rides directly with the manufacturer on the day - arrive early as test rides are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Riders are required to bring their own kit, helmet and licence. Can we bring a dog?…

This year marks two decades since Aussie superbike legend Troy Bayliss clinched the first of his three World Superbike crowns, so in recognition of this milestone Ducati have produced the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary special edition – and it’s an absolute gem of a motorcycle. Bespoke livery Using Ducati’s already beautiful Panigale V2 as a base, the Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary has a special livery, with graphics inspired by that of the 996R which powered Bayliss to the conquest of his first world title in 2001. Ducati red is the main theme, and it joins green and white in a tribute to the Italian spirit of the Bolognabased manufacturer. The iconic number 21, Troy Bayliss’ race number, and the Shell logo, which visually strengthen the link…

This year marks two decades since Aussie superbike legend Troy Bayliss clinched the first of his three World Superbike crowns, so in recognition of this milestone Ducati have produced the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary special edition - and it’s an absolute gem of a motorcycle. Bespoke livery Using Ducati’s already beautiful Panigale V2 as a base, the Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary has a special livery, with graphics inspired by that of the 996R which powered Bayliss to the conquest of his first world title in 2001. Ducati red is the main theme, and it joins green and white in a tribute to the Italian spirit of the Bolognabased manufacturer. The iconic number 21, Troy Bayliss’ race number, and the Shell logo, which visually strengthen the link…

This year marks two decades since Aussie superbike legend Troy Bayliss clinched the first of his three World Superbike crowns, so in recognition of this milestone Ducati have produced the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary special edition - and it’s an absolute gem of a motorcycle. Bespoke livery Using Ducati’s already beautiful Panigale V2 as a base, the Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary has a special livery, with graphics inspired by that of the 996R which powered Bayliss to the conquest of his first world title in 2001. Ducati red is the main theme, and it joins green and white in a tribute to the Italian spirit of the Bolognabased manufacturer. The iconic number 21, Troy Bayliss’ race number, and the Shell logo, which visually strengthen the link…

The 1997 ZRX1100 was created as a homage to the 1980s Z1000R/1100R Eddie Lawson repLica, and in 2001 it gained an extra 112cc and 25bhp to become the ZRX1200. ALthough it’s heavy and a LittLe cLumsy in terms of handLing, it’s great fun and exhiLarating to ride. After aLL, what eLse wouLd you want from a retro bike? You’re meant to push them hard and get that sense of achievement, and it’s hardLy sLow with 150mph avaiLabLe on tap. The engine is essentiaLLy the same as the ZZR1100, but sLightLy returned for Low-down torque. Be aware that it is a LittLe thirsty though as it doesn’t have the same aerodynamics as the ZZR. You’re probabLy Looking at 35-40mpg, but if you’re Looking to buy, try to get your hands on…

It didn’t seem all that windy at Silverstone on Sunday for the British GP, but as Rossi stopped in front of our Grandstand to wave goodbye (not just to me, you understand) I could have sworn a bit of dust blew in my eye. Okay, so it blew out again pretty fast, but there was a definite mote of moisture in the corner of my eye at witnessing the end of an era. No more Rossi at the BritGP. Watching him win at Donington in 2000 feels like a very long time ago indeed. And watching him nearly come last at Silverstone felt like an ignominious way to close the circle. But the crowd was saturated with yellow, and queues trailed from every VR46 merchandise stand like he was still…

£8699 Suzuki GSX-S1000 The GSX-S1000 was always cheaper than its Japanese rivals and now it’s even better value at Thunder Road with three 2020 GSX-S1000s, one blue and two grey/black models in their showrooms. The bike uses the long-stroke engine from the GSX-R1000 K5 and it’s agile, confidence-inspiring and stable. ● www.thunderroad.co.uk SAVE £1350 £9299 KTM 890 Duke R The 890 is refined, punchy, characterful and proof that you don’t need huge power to get your rocks off on the road. ● www.northamptonmoto.co.uk ● Engine 890cc ● Power 119bhp ● Weight 166kg ● Seat height 834mm SAVE £1000 £11,999 Kawasaki Versys 1000S The Versys S is excellent at demolishing miles and riders over six-feet tall feel little buffeting. ● www.motorcyclesdirect.co.uk ● Engine 1043cc ● Power 118bhp ● Weight 255kg ●…

Sidecar specialists Watsonian have given their oldest model a facelift to mark its 75th birthday. The Prescott first appeared in 1946 and was made using leftover RAF Mosquito reserve fuel tanks. The slight redesign means the sidecar’s body can now be moulded in two halves. Prices for the Prescott Sidecar start at £4495 (including VAT) and Watsonian provide a factory-fitting service if required. Visit www.watsonian-squire.com for more details. Get spannering The National Motorcycle Dealers Association have unveiled a plan to recruit more motorcycle technician apprentices. “The NMDA has held a successful meeting to discuss the standards for the Motorcycle Technician Trailblazer apprenticeship,” said association boss Paddy O’Connell. “We are looking forward to securing a stable workforce.” Meet the new Husky Husqvarna have unveiled their latest competition supermoto machine, an updated…

Royal Enfield are celebrating their 120th anniversary by teaming up with classic British motorcycle outfitters Belstaff to create a unique collection of clothing for on and off the bike – although it probably helps if you actually ride an Enfield! The highlights are a pair of limited-edition waxed jackets styled on Belstaff’s timehonoured waxed cotton Trialmaster jacket and the Brooklands armoured motorcycle jacket. Each is styled with a special commemorative ‘Royal Enfield 120year Anniversary’ patch on the righthand sleeve and an additional ‘Limited Edition’ riveted metal plaque on the inside zip. Only 500 of each are being made available worldwide. The two brands haven’t just collaborated on clothing – they’ve also create a pair of custom Continental GT 650s featuring one-of-a-kind liveries. They’re adorned with British Millerain waxed canvas and…

We’ve teamed up with Shoei to give one lucky MCN reader the chance to win a Shoei NXR2 helmet worth up to £539.99! The Shoei NXR2 is a premium, performance, full-face helmet developed to meet the latest ECE22/06 certification. All helmets require high safety performance – Shoei Premium helmets not only offer outstanding shock absorption, but also classleading aerodynamics, outstanding visibility, optimised ventilation, and soft comfort liner, all within a compact, lightweight shell. Here are the highlights... ● Lightweight ● Compact ● Optimised ventilation ● Improved quietness ● Quick-drying interior fabric ● Pinlock Evo lens How to enter Visit www.motorcyclenews.com/winShoeiNXR2 and submit your details to be in with a chance of winning. Good luck! TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize draw closes at midnight on September 21, 2021. This competition is…

FANTASY SHOPPING ON A REAL-WORLD BUDGET MARK WILSMORE 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 Mark’s pick... Mark Wilsmore is the man responsible for the rebirth of the Ace Café. Now a hub for petrolheads with franchises all over the world, the Ace is back to its very best, but what bike would the man who revived rock’n’roll on the North Circular buy in the used market? “There are two bikes I’d love to own – a Brough Superior SS100 and a Norvin – both of which are on my ‘lottery winning’ shopping list. “The Brough is such an incredible bike because it evokes ‘British hero’ in so many ways.…

mcn.letters@motorcyclenews.com motorcyclenews motorcyclenews MCNnews Wasn’t even my fault… In early May this year on my 6am commute into London, I was an innocent party in a multi-vehicle accident after another motorcyclist had hit a car and their bike span into my path. I flew over the bars at 40mph. Thankfully my gear performed and the worst injury I received was a shattered thumb joint and bruising. My first thought was to contact Green Flag – after all, their advertising shows a car driver upside–down in a tree and the voice–over promising they’ll get to you no matter what. After getting through to an agent and explaining I’d been in an accident, I was surprised to be asked who I was insured with and as it wasn’t Direct Line they wouldn’t…

1 Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance September 1 and 2 at Blenheim Palace. Tickets £325. Featuring the new Tour Privé and motorcycle parade for 2021. www.salonpriveconcours.com 2 Carole Nash Eurojumble September 3 and 4 at Netley Marsh near Southampton. Early bird £9 for Friday, £6 for Saturday. £12 on the day. www.classicbikeshows.com 3 Ace café reunion weekend Continental ride 6pm Friday, Weekend party and London ride out all day Saturday. Brighton Burn Up on Sunday london.acecafe.com 4 National Motorcycle Museum The museum is now back open seven days a week. Adults are £9.95, concessions £7.95 and family tickets are £25.95. www.nationalmotorcyclemuseum.co.uk…

FRIDAY September 3 9.25am, EUR2, Live World Superbikes from Magny Cours: Free Practice 1. Free Practice 2 at 1.35pm SATURDAY September 4 4.20pm, CH4, Guy Martin: War Machines SUNDAY September 5 2.15pm, EUR2, Live Bennetts British Superbikes from Snetterton: Highlights of day 2Races 2 and 3 KEYTO 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 ITVDST – DISCOVERY TURBO SHED – DISCOVERY SHED INST – INSIGHT SS1 (2, 3 OR X) – SKY SPORTS 1 (2, 3 OR EXTRA) QUEST BTS1 –BTSPORT1BTS2-BTSPORT2TVL – TRAVELUK…

2004 FINISHING LWR “When we’d ridden from London to New York, that was just amazing. I remember going over the bridge into New York and thinking, ‘Oh my god, we rode here.’ Pretty amazing.” 2006 START OF THE DAKAR RALLY “The biggest moment was at the start of the Dakar Rally. That was a good two years of work. The training was brutal!” 2018 BIG CRASH “Waking up in hospital in South Africa having suffered an enormous crash… I was on a Triumph 1200 I think. I was on a Triumph 1200 both times… I didn’t think about that!” 2019 ARRIVING IN LA “It was a much harder trip than I thought it would be, but it was amazing as it was completely different experience. We decided to ride from…

GUEST TESTER While I get why BMW have decided to do the minimum of changes for 2021 to the G310R as it ensures its price remains low, it is a move that might backfire on them. Why buy the 2021 bike when you can save a stack of cash and pick up a hardly-used and virtually identical 2020 model for £1500 less? Which is probably why the new bike is already on offer with 0% finance. That said, the G310R remains a fun and lightweight naked bike that is excellent in town and whose performance and handling will certainly appeal to A2-licence holders and has the added kudos of the BMW logo on its tank. But have BMW missed an opportunity to make it even better? I’d say so... THE…

1 Make sure your bike is in top condition It’s more vital than ever that your chain and tyres are perfectly adjusted and in good working order. Give everything a proper once over and make sure that nothing is loose. 2 Pick a time of day that is not likely to be busy Even though Germany’s road network is well maintained and efficient, don’t rule out getting stuck in traffic at peak times. Very early summer mornings are the best time to do this. 3 Be honest with yourself Are you up to it? Are you experienced enough? Have you had enough sleep? Is there any alcohol in your system from the night before? If you have any doubts, don’t do it. 4 It’s legal, but…. Although there is no…

☆☆☆☆☆ Metzeler Racetec TD Slick from £310 ‘Close to a race tyre but without the hassle’ Tested by Michael Neeves, for one test day Racing slicks have immense grip, but there’ no point using them for trackdays. They’ll tear if compounds don’t match track temperature, degrade through heat cycles and need to be baking before they work properly, so you need tyre warmers, paddock stands and power. Pressures need to be set hot, so you’ll need to constantly check them after each session, too. It’s only worth the massive faff of looking after them if you’re actually racing. So what’s the solution? These trackday slicks from Metzeler come very close to the grip and feel of a race tyre without the hassle mentioned above. They can be used from cold,…

Your bike has a multitude of bearings, so being confident to remove and refit them is a great skill that will help you perform a wide range of jobs. Experience counts massively and there are plenty of ways to make the task easier, such as dedicated pullers for internal and external removal, as well as driving sets to aid installation of a variety of different bearings and even seals. As well as these specialist tools, you can always encourage a stubborn bearing out of its seat by applying heat. Don’t use a blow torch or any other naked flame; a general DIY-use heat gun will generate enough heat to loosen a recalcitrant bearing. And for ease of installation, stick the bearings in the freezer for an hour or so then,…

KTM’s Brad Binder led a trio of KTMs into the top ten at Silverstone, but came up short of repeating the heroics of his rain-hit win in Austria. It was another trademark charge by Binder with a fast-finishing sixth place from 12th on the grid on a day that provided another lesson in his KTM learning curve. Making his first MotoGP start at Silverstone, Binder said: “Sixth place is not where we want to be but on a day when we stumbled, that’s positive. “We didn’t have the pace we wanted and only when the grip came down late in the race did I get stronger.” Iker Lecuona (Tech3) has been sacked by KTM for next season but has now scored consecutive top tens, with a seventh in Silverstone on…

SILVERSTONE CIRCUIT 16 Morbidelli 40 17 Petrucci 36 18 Bastianini 35 19 Lecuona 33 20 Marini 28 21 Rossi 28 22 Bradl 11 FINAL POSITIONS MOTOGP FINAL POSITIONS MOTO 2 11 Luthi +21.112 12 Vietti +22.371 13 Schrotter +22.525 14 Bulega +23.672 15 Bendsneyder +24.116 16 Aldeguer +26.847 0 17 Chantra +26.996 FINAL POSITIONS MOTO 3 11 Acosta +21.898 12 McPhee +21.859 13 Sasaki +22.028 14 Salac +22.107 15 Rodrigo +22.157 16 Garcia +22.444 17 Nepa +22.331 18 Artigas +25.580 19 Fernandez +25.215…

MICHAEL LAVERTY THE INSIDER BT Sport’s technical guru unmasks secrets at the sharp end of MotoGP Aprilia’s first-ever MotoGP podium has been a long time coming – the ill-fated Aprilia RS Cube debuted in 2002, spanning a period of only three years before the factory’s 10-year absence from the premier class. A return in 2015 with the RS-GP delivered little reward. A best result of sixth over six-anda-half seasons has been challenging, but the potential has always been there – it is just that unlocking that last five percent takes a huge amount of time, skill and money. Have they turned a corner? 1 Positive thinking Huge credit must go to Aleix Espargaro who has worked incredibly hard over recent seasons. Always outperforming his teammates, he has been Aprilia’s greatest asset…

MATTHEW BIRT INSIGHT Getting the inside line on grand prix racing since 1996 If Fabio Quartararo is supposed to be feeling the stress and strain of becoming Yamaha’s first MotoGP World Champion in six years, then he’s doing a phenomenal job of hiding it. Dethroned MotoGP king Marc Marquez recently said this year’s title is Quartararo’s to lose. And current World Champion Joan Mir says the pressure and tension will only be ramped up as Quartararo inches closer to being the Spaniard’s successor. Quartararo, though, is thriving rather than wilting under the pressure of single-handedly keeping Yamaha on track for the coveted triple crown of rider, team, and constructor titles. Another utterly dominant win at Silverstone proved that the Quartararo of 2021 is nothing like the Quartararo of last year. The…

It’s been so long since many of us have been able to go to a proper biking event that this weekend’s Devitt MCN Festival feels almost illicit in its allure. Clearly thousands of you feel the same, with this year’s Festival tickets selling faster than any previous year on record. Make sure you book yours today to take advantage of the advanced-booking discounts before it’s too late. Being able to ogle all the latest bikes in one place is great, but being able to ride them is even better – and nowhere else gives you a bigger opportunity to sample all the latest metal on great roads. The test ride slots are always hugely popular, so make sure you grab a place and get the most of your visit. Who…

Saturday 9:15am - 5:00pm• DTRA RacingIndian Live Action Arena 10.00am - 10:30am• Extreme Bike Battle 10:00am - 10:30am• JD StuntsMichelin Stunt Zone 10:30am - 11:00am• British Mini BikesMichelin Stunt Zone 11:00am - 11:30am• Two Brothers RacingStunt TeamMichelin Stunt Zone 11:45am - 12:15am• Extreme Bike Battle 1:00 - 1:30pm• JD StuntsMichelin Stunt Zone 1:30pm - 2:00pm• Extreme Bike Battle 1:30pm - 2:00pm•British Mini BikesMichelin Stunt Zone 2:00pm - 2:30pm• Two Brothers RacingStunt TeamMichelin Stunt Zone 3:45pm - 4:15pm• Extreme Bike Battle 4:00pm - 4:30pm• JD Stunts Michelin Stunt Zone 4:30pm - 5:00pm• British Mini BikesMichelin Stunt Zone 5:00pm - 5:30pm• Two Brothers RacingStunt TeamMichelin Stunt Zone Sunday 9:15am - 11:00am• DTRA RacingIndian Live Action Arena 10.00am - 10:30am• Extreme Bike Battle 10:00am - 10:30am• JD StuntsMichelin Stunt Zone 10:30am - 11:00am•…

The 1997 ZRX1100 was created as a homage to the 1980s Z1000R/1100R Eddie Lawson replica, and in 2001 it gained an extra 112cc and 25bhp to become the ZRX1200. Although it’s heavy and a little clumsy in terms of handling, it’s great fun and exhilarating to ride. After all, what else would you want from a retro bike? You’re meant to push them hard and get that sense of achievement, and it’s hardly slow with 150mph available on tap. The engine is essentially the same as the ZZR1100, but slightly returned for low-down torque. Be aware that it is a little thirsty though as it doesn’t have the same aerodynamics as the ZZR. You’re probably looking at 35-40mpg, but if you’re looking to buy, try to get your hands on…

The 1997 ZRX1100 was created as a homage to the 1980s Z1000R/1100R Eddie Lawson replica, and in 2001 it gained an extra 112cc and 25bhp to become the ZRX1200. Although it’s heavy and a little clumsy in terms of handling, it’s great fun and exhilarating to ride. After all, what else would you want from a retro bike? You’re meant to push them hard and get that sense of achievement, and it’s hardly slow with 150mph available on tap. The engine is essentially the same as the ZZR1100, but slightly returned for low-down torque. Be aware that it is a little thirsty though as it doesn’t have the same aerodynamics as the ZZR. You’re probably looking at 35-40mpg, but if you’re looking to buy, try to get your hands on…

Motorcycles will not be run in this year’s Brighton Speed Trails after changes to the surface left it unsafe for competitors. The matter has been made worse as it turns out the ACU was not even consulted about “significant changes” to the road. The discovery was made by Jody Doherty-Cove, who first reported it in The Argus, a Brighton newspaper. The ACU, which carries out safety inspections for motorcycles on the Brighton Speed Trials track, said it was only recently made aware of a new two-way cycle lane and pedestrian crossing points. Organisers say the ACU inspector said the grip on the new green cycle lane in Madeira Drive meant the track was no longer safe for motorcyclists taking part in the event. As a result, motorcycles will not be…

NEWS EDITOR Triumph have released a teaser showing test riders riding a brand-new Tiger 1200 with the promise that the upcoming machine will be the “new ultimate large capacity adventure ride”. We’ve known a new Tiger has been on the way for some time – there were spyshots of one being tested last year – but this is the first time Triumph have admitted to the new bike publicly. As well as showing the bike doing its thing off-road, Triumph have also made bold claims about the new machine, including that not only will it be more powerful but that it’s “significantly lighter than its closest competition”. Clearly this doesn’t give away how light the bike will be because it depends on what Triumph have decided its closest competition is,…

Buell motorcycles are returning to full production once more with the company well on the way to launching their first new bike: the 1190RX ‘Hammerhead’. The Buell name has been silent since 2009, when the company was closed by then owners Harley-Davidson in a cost-cutting drive. After the business was closed, founder Erik Buell set up Erik Buell Racing (EBR), which was bought by Liquid Asset Partners (LAP) in 2016. Now LAP have bought the Buell name from H-D, renaming EBR with promises to launch ten new models by 2024, starting with the Hammerhead. “We are excited to bring Buell back with this awesome assortment of superbikes and performance motorcycles,” said Bill Melvin, the CEO of LAP. “We begin with the fastest American production motorcycles, hand-built in the USA, so…

Merlin Expedition waxed cotton jacket £329.99 Classy retro adventure-styled jacket from British brand Merlin. Made from Halley Stevensons Scottish waxed cotton and backed up by a Reissa Active waterproof membrane, there’s a 125g thermal lining, ventilation as well as D30 armour. The whole garment is rated as CE ‘A’ for abrasion resistance. www.merlinbikegear.com Richa Summit Evo gloves £44.99 Even though it feels as though we’ve not had a summer yet, autumn’s most definitely on the horizon. But the good thing is that if you get the right kit, it can (almost) be summer all year round. These Richa gloves are made from a mix of textile and leather with a Hipora waterproof membrane inside. But more than that, there’s also a soft, snuggly thermal lining inside to keep hands happy.…

Six-time WSB champion Jonathan Rea has picked up his first road bike since recently passing his test and it’s nothing like the ZX-10R-based machine he’s used to riding on circuit. In a new YouTube video, Rea can be seen collecting a Z900RS from Coleraine Kawasaki before rather bizarrely heading straight to the beach and riding along the shoreline. Head to the Jonathan Rea channel on YouTube to see the video for yourself. New eScoot Aprilia have announced a new electric scooter called the eSR2. Rather than the sit-on 50cc equivalent machine you might expect to see, the eSR2 is the stand-on kind currently illegal to ride on roads, pavements or public land in the UK. Nevertheless, it uses a 350W motor, 10in wheels, front and rear lights and can travel…

Ride further in 2021 with a little help from our one-stop event guide JUST BREW IT Ride out to Britain’s best biking cafés THE FACTS ● Museum, tearoom, farmyard, meeting place ● 10am-4.30pm with last admission 2.30pm ● sammymiller.co.uk With over 450 bikes and mementoes to Sammy’s illustrious career, you could easily spend all day in the Sammy Miller Museum. But there’s more going on there than the bikes. Sharon Bumpsteed, Sammy’s Museum Manager explains: “As well as the motorbikes, we’ve got all sorts of other social history artefacts in here, such as the typewriters, sewing machines, Tutankhamun… There are all sorts of bizarre things.” Little kids can also take part in a teddy bear hunt, and for those that are a little older, Sharon has put together a story…

‘Exmoor, two times’ Bikers’ Britain author Simon Weir loves a ride on the wild side From Minehead, take the A39 to Porlock. Take the right turn in Porlock to head down to the Weir. You have to pay for parking, but there are several good cafes here. Return to Porlock and turn right on the A39 – climbing Porlock Hill, with its hairpins. Watch out for the wild ponies as you cross the moors. This is my favourite stretch, as the views are amazing, but coming into Lynmouth the surface at the bottom of Countisbury Hill is a bit sketchy. Follow the road round towards Lynton (as the A39 through the gorge is really rough at the moment) and turn right to rejoin the A39 towards Barnstaple. At Blackmoor Gate…

MCN’s motorcycling weekend is back on September 4-5 with entertainment, live music, test rides, live action and so much more. What’s happening? You’ll have the chance to test ride the latest 2021 motorcycles from all the main manufacturers (so don’t forget to bring your licence), enjoy fantastic entertainment including Moped Mayhem, Dirt Track racing and the Extreme Bike battle stunt show. New for 2021 is the British Mini Bike team showcasing demonstration laps, plus we’re celebrating the recent 40th birthday of Yamaha’s beloved LC model range with a classic two- stroke display. The essentials You can camp for the weekend and get early access into the show on Saturday and Sunday, watch evening events, sign up for test rides first, and tree entertainment in the evenings. It all takes place…

CHIEF ROAD TESTER £32,295 Ducati Panigale V4 SP • 1103cc 16v V4 • 211bhp/91.5lb.ft • £266.21 per month PCP £30,640 BMW M1000RR • 999cc 16v inline four • 209bhp/83lb.ft • £347.63 per month PCP It’s a question literally some of you may be asking yourself this Wednesday morning. You’ve 30-odd grand to spend on an exotic European superbike – so what do you buy? Well, BMW and Ducati have just the thing for you. Both are new for 2021 and answer that burning question in very different ways. M Power generation BMW’s M1000RR is the most powerful, technologically advanced road-going superbike they’ve ever built. Granted, the 215bhp, carbon-framed HP4 Race was a bit more ‘out there’, but it had no lights, a ridiculously short engine life and cost £68,000 when…

CHIEF ROAD TESTER If there’s 30-grand burning a hole in your pocket for an exotic superbike, the Ducati Panigale V4 SP is the one for you. It’s knee- knockingly beautiful, insanely fast and actually moves the game on by being easier to get on with than the base, S or R models, despite its immense performance. Here at Snetterton it’s a docile as 211bhp can be through corners, before letting rip along the straights. Electronics cosset and the suspension is totally factory race bike-velvety. It’s harder to justify big money for the M1000RR. Wings aside, you’re paying a premium for is its race development and special parts inside the engine to make it more competitive in race trim. But the good news the S1000RR M Package is every bit as…

1 Nexx X.WED2 £349.99-£399.99 Great fit, quiet, and the peak is fixed in three places. The integrated comms kit is brilliant and can hook several items together at the same time. Rob Dickson, Bures 2 Schuberth E1 £449.99-£529.99 I’ve had this 18 months and use it every day. Pros include the comfort, sun visor, Pinlock and adjustable peak. Steve Staines, Marholm 3 Nishua Enduro Carbon £231.47 It’s super light with an amazing field of view. It can be worn without the peak, or the visor, or with goggles. Ade Beckham, Northallerton 4 Scorpion ADX-1 £209.99-£239.99 The modular, flip-up design is useful when instructing. I just wish it came with an integrated Bluetooth system. Gary Morgan, Chester 5 Arai Tour-X4 £499.99-£599.99 My go-to helmet. The level of comfort is superb and…

Ged Shorten’s bread and butter at GCS Services in Dorset is classic Italian metal like Laverdas and old Guzzis, but when a friend begged him to take a look at his grandson’s 2016 AJS Cadwell café racer he made an exception. “The only way he could get it to run was with the choke on all the time and when I saw the state of the inlet manifold I was amazed he’d managed to ride it here at all,” said Ged. The standard inlet manifold design involves a rubber tube that the carb pushes into, mated to an aluminium stub that bolts to the cylinder, so it’s an airtight seal at both ends. “Modern fuel seems to degrade a lot of rubber components,” Ged commented. “I tell my customers to…

For Jake Dixon to leave Silverstone feeling a little frustrated shows just how much progress he made over the course of the weekend. Dixon grabbed this dream opportunity of racing the Yamaha M1 in MotoGP with both hands and showcased his ability to learn quickly, but in a safe and considered way. Improving session-by-session, the Petronas Yamaha rider had high hopes for the race after a strong warm up outing, only to be beset with machine and grip woes. “I’m really annoyed with how things went in the race,” Dixon admitted. “It was definitely a lot more unrideable and for me it felt like I rode two different bikes over the weekend. It’s just very frustrating to finish in that way after such a positive weekend.” Still, at least Dixon…

John McPhee’s podium hopes were dashed within three corners when he was forced wide and re-joined last. Refusing to let that be the story of his home GP, McPhee fought back to 11th after battling with title rivals Pedro Acosta and Sergio Garcia. McPhee, no doubt feeling sore from a big crash on Friday, was eventually demoted to 12th for exceeding track limits on the final lap. Romano Fenati topped every session and took a comfortable win, his 13th in the lightweight class. Brit power deal Triumph will continue as engine supplier in Moto2 for at least another three seasons after signing a new deal. The brand have provided teams with race-tuned 765cc triples, based on the Street Triple RS, since 2019 and have seen new lap records set at…

The meltdown that triggered the abrupt exit of Maverick Viñales from Yamaha sent shockwaves through the world of MotoGP. But a bigger shock will be if the nine-time premier class race winner is not urgently parachuted by his new bosses at Aprilia into race action aboard the RS-GP. With Aleix Espargaro’s historic Silverstone podium boosting wild card expectations, next week’s Aragon GP is one option, as is the dream scenario of the Italian firm’s home round in Misano a week later. Viñales was clearly unhappy at Yamaha and must now surely relish his lucky, career salvaging opportunity with a resurgent Aprilia. As MCN went to press on Monday night, the Spainiard was scheduled to complete a two day Misano test (August 31-September 1) and with Aprilia wild cards available, the…

Andrea Dovizioso will become Valentino Rossi’s fifth teammate in three months and Yamaha’s eighth different rider in 2021 when he ends his self-imposed exile in Misano. Dovizioso joins Rossi as Franco Morbidelli’s replacement at Petronas SRT for the final five races, as Yamaha regroups from their surprise split with Maverick Viñales. Morbidelli, who is set to return from a serious left knee injury in Misano, will join Fabio Quartararo ahead of a full-time factory berth alongside the Frenchman in 2022. The shake-up means Dovizioso has been handed an unexpected career lifeline by Yamaha at the age of 35. Dovizioso opted to take a sabbatical after quitting Ducati at the end of 2020, but his Misano comeback paves the way for a permanent seat at Yamaha next season. Dovizioso will have…