Editor: Gregg Mitchell
MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT!
Saturday, September 22, 2007, we will be meeting at Karl's Cabin restaurant in Plymouth, MI. Karl's is located on Gotfredson Road, just north of M-14. From I-275 / I-96 take M14 West towards Ann Arbor. Gotfredson Road is exit # 15. The meeting begins at 8:30 AM However late arrivers are always welcome!
California Superbike School
Mid Ohio
By Larry Job
If you are like me you have heard of, or know of someone who has attended a CSS (sometimes referred to as Keith Code school), but never envisioned doing it yourself. Well after a number of years of making excuses why I could not do it, I finally went ahead and attended one at the Mid Ohio Race Car Course.
On August 6th, the day after this year’s Superbike races at Mid Ohio, I found myself suited up and walking into the first of five classroom sessions for Level 1 training. Now to say I was completely at ease would be a lie. I had just spent the last three days watching professional racers going extremely fast and sometimes falling down, on the same track I would be riding on. Keith Code started out the discussion with the following statement: “If you came here to learn how to go fast down the straightaway then you are in the wrong school. Here we will teach how to corner better then you are doing now.
” With that statement he proceeded to talk about what it takes to ride and turn a motorcycle. What is fact, fiction and just misunderstandings. Keith explained that there were five key elements that influence our performance on cornering a motorcycle. Each of the classroom sessions would discuss an item, then an on-track exercise would be explained and then we would go out and work on the drill. The first item for effective cornering is entry speed. This was presented in classroom, with the first drill being to ride the track in 4th gear with no brakes. This turned out to be not that difficult as you are not going that fast. We each had an on-track coach assigned to us (2 to 3 students per coach) and they would lead us, follow us, observe and help us with the specific exercise. Working on the specific drill is highly stressed as each successive concept builds on the previous.
OK, enough about the school, what did I personally get out of it?
First let me set the stage on where I was before I took this class. Sometimes while riding on the street, but more frequently on the track, I would come up to a fast corner and I would feel rushed, like too many things were happening at once for me to deal with. Then the little voice in the back of my head would scream out something like: “Oh my God, we’re going to die!”
The great news is that this did not happen even once during the entire day. In fact, I never felt more relaxed, unhurried in my life. Now let me tell you that as the day wore on I continued to increase my speed so that by the end of the day I was going substantially faster then I would have ever thought and having more fun then I ever had.
Many times we have heard people say that this or that was the best money they have ever spent. Well, I have to say that attending the Keith Code School really was the best money I ever spent. For the first time I truly felt in control of my bike. I was able to corner with more confidence, stability and speed then I ever thought possible. Keith Code has been doing this for 25 years and it definitely shows. The 2008 school schedule is usually posted in early January. Check it out at http://www.superbikeschool.com/. If you sign up for the Mid-Ohio date you most likely will see me there attending Level 2.
Special thanks go to John and Ann Cirner for being there and for the picture. They attended Level 3.
2008 Can-Am Spyder
Ridden and Reviewed
By Pedro Gregorio
Quebec-based Bombardier Recreational Products’ (BRP) introduction of its first-ever street-legal vehicle is either one of the most significant events to happen to the motorcycle industry since the 1969 Honda CB750 or, a short-lived fad that won’t register on most motorcyclists’ radar screens. If you have ever ridden a Ski-Doo snowmobile, Sea-Doo watercraft, or a Can-Am ATV, you’ve ridden a Bombardier product. Strapped an Envirude or Johnson outboard engine to your fishing boat lately? You guessed it, another BRP product. On the motorcycle front, if you’ve enjoyed the performance of your Aprilia, BMW F650 or F800, thank Bombardier’s Rotax engine division for providing the go-power for your bike. You get the point. This is not a company that is unfamiliar with the personal powersports industry and I don’t believe they would create a whole new type of recreational vehicle without some serious market research.
II first heard about the Can-Am Spyder months ago on – where else – the Internet. There were a few photos and not much else. I was intrigued. When I saw that a couple of Can-Am dealers near my house would have demo rides available this summer, I knew I had to try one. So on a sunny Saturday in June my wife, Edwina, and I stopped off at Champion Powersports of Belleville to demo a Spyder. There were two of them, one silver the other yellow, parked under individual canopies in the parking lot so they were easy to spot. The Yamaha, Suzuki, and Victory dealer was having an open house with a live band and motorcycle stunt show providing the entertainment but Edwina and I were there to ride the Spyder so we didn’t spend much time outside. Once inside the dealership we filled out our waivers and met Dave Mac and Tim Kasten, two of the sales persons. Tim would be riding one of the Spyders to lead the demo ride and I would follow on the other. Our original intent was to ride two up but Tim let us know that their policy only allowed passengers to ride with him. In the end it turned out great because Edwina was able to get a lot of excellent photos of me on the yellow model.
Once outside and geared up, Tim ran me through the controls. The handlebar controls are exactly the same as a motorcycle’s except for one very noticeable difference: there is no hand lever on the right. The three disc brakes are all activated by the large pedal at the right footpeg. The front rides on two independently-suspended 165/65R14 H-rated (up to 130 mph) tires and the belt-driven rear tire is a 225/50R15 supported by a single shock. The five-speed transmission’s shift lever is in its usual place at the left foot peg. Sitting on the Spyder is no different from sitting on a bike with a 29-inch seat height except this is a bike that never tips over. Trike owners won’t find this a novelty but it was a bit weird for me initially. Key on, make sure I’m in neutral and push the button to start the fuel-injected, 990cc Rotax engine used by Aprilia motorcycles everywhere. In the Spyder the engine is rated at 106 hp @ 8500 rpm and 77 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm (as listed at www.spyder.brp.com). In Aprilia’s Tuono 1000 R and RSV 1000 R models the engine makes about 30 more horsepower likely due to the full point higher compression ratio (11.8:1 vs 10.8:1) and intake and exhaust differences. One benefit of the Spyder’s lower state of tune is not having to feed it premium fuel, 87 octane will do.
Maneuvering the Spyder in the parking lot was pretty easy due to the light and gradual clutch and the electrically-assisted steering. I didn’t have to apply much force to the handlebars to turn the wheels. I followed Tim out onto Belleville Rd. and on the 6-mile loop that he had laid out. We didn’t get out on the highway so speeds stayed below 55 mph. A small windshield provided minimal wind protection but the wind felt good on this hot day. The Spyder accelerated quickly and the transmission shifted smoothly. The relatively low speed riding (driving?) didn’t allow me to come close to the 9500 rpm redline but at 6000 rpm the engine felt smooth and I didn’t feel any annoying handlebar or foot peg vibrations. The instrument cluster was easy to read with an analog tachometer and speedometer flanking a central digital display showing speed, ambient temperature, fuel level, coolant temperature, and gear position. I’m a big believer in digital speedometers and gear position indicators. They make a motorcyclist’s life much easier. The Spyder has a whole range of electronic acronyms that I’ve previously only seen on cars: VSS (Vehicle Stability System), ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), TCS (Traction Control System), and SCS (Stability Control System with Roll-Over Mitigation). VSS is the umbrella that encompasses the other three. I didn’t have the opportunity to engage any of these systems but
Bombardier has ensured that if you lose control of the Spyder, you’re trying very hard to do so. The brake pedal felt powerful enough to deal with any stopping situation. I was also impressed by the suspension comfort although Edwina didn’t have the same opinion from Tim’s passenger seat. The rear suspension is adjustable so I can’t say if her complaint could have been resolved with a change in settings. She also didn’t like the wind buffeting around her helmet. This is usually affected by the height of the rider (driver?) and the windshield. My only complaint was with the steering feel. According to the website the power assist is supposed to vary with speed but I felt there was too much assist at 30-50 mph. The smallest movement of the bars made the Spyder change direction right now! Maybe it’s a characteristic that I needed more time to get used to or maybe because these were prototype machines the steering system’s calibration hadn’t been fully finalized. I wish I could have tried the Spyder on the highway to check its stability and tracking. Not being used to trikes or sidecars, cornering with the Spyder was a new experience for me. Like a car, cornering forces wanted to push my body outwards so I had a tendency to compensate by leaning into the corner. I would love to try the Spyder on some HSTA-approved twisty roads at higher speeds to get a better feel for its cornering abilities. One thing I wouldn’t have to worry about is gravel or slippery surfaces like I do on bikes. I could imagine Spyder riders laughing inside their helmets when the skies open up on group rides with their two-wheeled buddies. Even on dry pavement, I wonder if I could make up in corners what I lost out in outright acceleration on the straights.
Since the Spyder is a vehicle that falls half way between a motorcycle and a convertible, I thought it appropriate to compare it with the most automotive of big touring bikes, the Honda Gold Wing, and the cheapest new convertible you can buy in America (according to Edmunds.com), the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The cheapest ’08 Gold Wing lists for $19,599 whereas the Miata comes in at $20,585. The Spyder beats them both at $14,999 ($15,299 for the yellow one, my favorite). The Wing has more power but it also weighs over 100 lbs more so the power-to-weight is a wash compared to the Spyder. The Miata’s 166 hp have to carry a lot more weight around so it gets to 60 mph about 3 seconds after the Wing does. The Spyder web site doesn’t list performance figures but with a similar power-to-weight ratio to the Wing’s I would expect similar 0-60 and quarter-mile numbers: under 5 seconds to 60 and under 13 seconds in the ¼. Cargo capacity? The Spyder’s front-mounted, 44L trunk loses out to the Wing’s and Miata’s 141L cargo holds. I would expect the Spyder to beat the Miata’s 25 city/30 hwy fuel economy ratings although not by much. A Gold Wing usually manages between 30 and 40 mpg and carries 6.6 gallons compared to the Spyder’s 7.1 gallons. 30-40 is the normal mileage fellow Michigan member Kelly McCrystal gets on his Aprilia Futura so the Spyder should be close. Dimensionally, the Spyder is not far off from the Wing except for width. Those two front wheels give it a 59.3 inch girth that makes the Wing’s 37.2 inches seem svelte. Since we Midwesterners aren’t allowed to lane split this isn’t an issue but if you’re reading this in California, take heed.
So where does this leave the Spyder? In terms of price-to-performance ratio, it handily beats a convertible or a large touring bike. You and your significant other may have to take less stuff with you but the Spyder’s web site does list travel bags as an option so the difference in cargo capacity may be negligible. When it rains you won’t be able to hide under a folding top like in a convertible but you won’t have to worry about rain-slicked roads like you would on a touring bike. Why would anyone buy a Spyder? Some might see it as the fastest, best-handling and most technologically advanced scooter in America. But, with apologies to all of the scooter lovers out there, the Spyder is way cooler than any scooter. Others may look at it and see it as the most attention-grabbing vehicle on the road. Park a Spyder next to a Lamborghini and which one do you think will draw the biggest crowd? If you’re in the market for a trike because you’re not comfortable balancing a fully-loaded touring bike, the Spyder is a natural. You can even get an optional electric-shift transmission for $1500 if you don’t like to shift the traditional way. Other options listed include a racier exhaust, taller wind screen, and a passenger back rest.
If you have always wanted to ride a bike but weren’t willing to accept the risk and learning curve that goes along with a two-wheeler, the Spyder may be perfect for you. Three-wheeler licensing requirements vary from state to state but in Michigan you do need a motorcycle endorsement on your license to operate one. If your wife would never dream of getting on a bike with you, she may be much more open to trying the Spyder. Scott Meterko, Champion Powersports’ Manager, told me that all 18 Spyders that he has been allotted already have deposits on them so it looks like Bombardier may be onto something here. I used to be of the opinion that if it doesn’t lean, you might as well get a convertible. After riding the Spyder, I know there is another, more interesting and fun, choice.
A special thanks to Larry Job and Pedro Gregorio for the articles featured this month!
REMEMBER........
It doesn't pay a reward, but your articles will be appreciated by all your fellow members and your local editor AND you will earn points toward the 2007 SMOTY Award!
If nothing else - you'll get to see your name in print, somewhere other than on the Post Office bulletin board!
MICHIGAN SQUADRON RIDING EVENTS 2007
One of the traditions of the Michigan Squadron of the HSTA is to organize a few events each year specifically for our State Squadron. These events are not sanctioned or official events of the HSTA, but are limited to those who are current members of the HSTA.
Our remaining 2007 schedule is listed below in order of occurrence:
HAZARDOUS TOUR
Hazard, KY, Oct. 4 - 7, 2007
Event Organizer – Gregg Mitchell
Your LAST CHANCE to join in on the Michigan Mostly Events for 2007
.
Join us in Hazard, KY for two or three days of exploring the roads in Kentucky. For those who want to arrive on Thursday evening, October 5, we'll have a choice of two routes to ride on Friday the 6th. If you'd like to arrive on Friday -- we'll be doing another on Saturday the 7th.
I expect everyone will be homeward bound on Sunday.
We'll be staying at the following Motel -
Days Inn, 359 Morton Blvd
Phone 606-436-4777 for reservations.
Should they fill up, there are other motels within a block or two -
Daniel Boone Motor Inn, Boone Ridge Rd.
606-439-5896
Super 8, 125 Village Lane
606-436-8888
There will be a Mandatory "Rider's Meeting" held at the hotel at 9:00 PM, where we'll set up the riding groups, reveal the routes and prepare for the next days ride.
If you want to participate - here's what you do -
1. Make your hotel reservations at the Hotel- without delay
There is NOT a block of rooms being "Held".
VERY IMPORTANT!
2. Let me know that you're planning on being there - I need an accurate head count for maps.
You can contact me at the following:
E-Mail - MI_HSTA@Voyager.net
Phone - 248-375-5469 (Home)
248-377-8170 (Work)
September 22, 2007 – Saturday
Michigan HSTA Monthly Meeting
Karl’s Cabin Restaurant
Gotfredson Rd., Plymouth, MI
8:30 AM
September 22, 2007 – Saturday
Open House – Demo Ride Day
Detroit Eurocycles
18301 Nine Mile Rd. – Eastpointe
September 30, 2007 – Sunday
Plymouth Chili Cook Off and
Charity Ride
Contact – BMW of Southeast Michigan
734.981.1479
www.bmwmcsem.com
October 7, 2007 – Sunday
Ernie’s Ride In
October 7, 2007 – Sunday
European / Vintage Bike Rally
Holly, MI
October 14, 2007
Pennington’s Fall Bar-B-Que
Ypsilanti
October 27, 2007 – Saturday
Michigan HSTA Monthly Meeting
Karl’s Cabin Restaurant
Gotfredson Rd., Plymouth, MI
8:30 AM
January 4, 5, 6, 2008
International Motorcycle Show
Rock Financial Showplace
46100 Grand River Avenue
Novi, MI
January 5, 2008
First Annual SMOTY Awards Dinner
Karl’s Cabin Restaurant
Gotfredson Rd., Plymouth, MI
Details with be forthcoming
Welcome to the HSTA
Please join me in welcoming the following new member(s) to the Michigan HSTA Squadron:
David Holcomb – Birmingham
John Horner – BMW SE Michigan
For the individual(s) listed below - this will be your last Michigan Newsletter if you don't renew within the next 30 days AND advise me with a call. If you feel this information is in error - call me. If you wish to renew and need a form, let me know and I'll send you one or you can print out the copy at the HSTA Website -------- www.ridehsta.com
We’re going to miss you if you don’t renew!
Mike Martin – New Baltimore
Our policy regarding "Prospects" is to provide them with a "local" newsletter for 3 months following their
introduction to the club. Under those guidelines this will be the last newsletter for the following individual(s):
George Johnson - Howell
Tom Kern - Hartland
If you have decided to join the HSTA, please let me know so I can continue sending your monthly newsletter to you.
Current Squadron Membership – 100
