Moto-OZ November-December out now

November 16, 2008

Empty your email inbox, 'coz the latest edition of Moto-OZ ezine is on its way, and it's jam-packed with ride stories, tests and reports. About what? How about the Triumph America, touring in the Victorian goldfields and round ups from the Melbourne Motorcycle Expo and Southern Classic historic race weekend. Plus lots and lots more... It's a members' only feast..

Click here to get the latest Moto-OZ.

Wheely Good Prices

October 28, 2008

GZA have announced some super special pricing for MA members on Blackstone Tek Carbon Fibre wheels:

Normally $4,799    Member Price: $3,500 plus $50 to $80 postage 

These wheels are in very limited numbers and are to fit:

Click here for more information. You will need to specifically ask about this deal

October 21, 2008

If you join the Riders Division or renew your membership between the MotoGP and the Australian round of the WSBK, you'll be in the running to win your choice of Honda prize packs worth $15,290.

• Honda CBF1000
• Honda CBR600RR
• Honda CRF450X
• Honda VT750C2

Even if you don't win the Honda, you'll score by the huge savings you'll be in for as a member of Australia's peak motorcycling body.  Discounts from hundreds of business, plus a  National Roadside Recovery scheme, and opportunities to ride all over Australia.

Click  here for more information.

Moto-OZ September/October now out

September 16, 2008

The latest edition of Moto-OZ is jam packed with bike tests, rides and stories. How about the new V-Max, or KTM's killer Super Duke?

As well, there's more about Charley Boorman's amazing 24 country ride- By Any Means... and we were there to meet him in Sydney. It's a members' only treat.

Click here for more info.

Bike Show Entry Cut

September 11, 2008

Show your MA membership card when buying tickets to the Australian Motorcycle Expo in Melbourne [30 Oct -2 Nov, 2008] and entry will be just $15, $2 off the normal price.

When you're there come and say hello, we'll have a stand in the middle near the back wall.

For more info click here

Scooter Riding Made Easier

September 9, 2008

The NSW RTA has increased the capacity for automatic exemption from the Scooter License course.

The RTA has increased the capacity exemption to 160cc for the pre-provisional course for automatic motorcycles and scooters.  Riders of scooters less than 160cc will need to attend and pass the pre-learner course and the Motorcycle Operator Skills Test or MOST, but  they will now not need to attend the 6 hour pre-provisional course before doing MOST.

Click here for more information.

Champions Club Entry cut by 5%

August 26, 2008

John Sample Group, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi importers have a small number of Champions Club tickets to the 2008 Australian MotoGP, and they are available to Motorcycling Australia members exclusively at just $850 [normally $895].

The Champions Club is right at the action at Turn 4 and your entry includes:

To secure this fantastic offer, contact Alana Baratto at John Sample on 02 9914 8738 or email at abaratto@jsg.com.au before September 25, 2008 quoting your MA membership.

Half-price Advertising- useddirtbikes.com.au

A new web-based advertising site for used dirt bikes called, not surprisingly - www.useddirtbikes.com.au is now receiving over 18,000 hits per month

Normally you'd pay just $15, but MA members place their ad half price, and it stays there until it's sold!  You can add as many photos as you like.  Of course, if you're looking to buy a used dirt bike, it's also the place to go.

The site also carries Dirt Bike reviews, riding tips & tricks, Pre Purchase and mechanical checklists, freight advice and more. Click here to find out how to get your MA discount.

Making the Roads Safer

August 20, 2008

Motorcycling Australia went to our first meeting of the Motorcycle Safety Consultative Committee in Canberra on Monday 18 August.

Sitting around the table were seven other riders' group and motorcycle industry reps and people from the Department of Transport. (It's actually got a much longer name). Details of the discussions remain under wraps until everyone's signed off on them, but the Committee, which helped to arrange the April Motorcycle and Scooter Safety Summit, discussed the wash-up from the event and ways to move the Summit recommendations forward.

As well, there was a compilation of some of the latest motorcycle safety statistics presented, and I'll attempt to summarise some of these for you on our rights pages.

Riding on the Sheep's Back

August 19, 2008

Wool has been the product of choice for polar explorers and motorcyclists for more than a hundred years.

The relatively recent availability of superfine Merino wool means that you can now wear wool against your skin without itching or irritation.  Wool retains its ability to keep you warm even when wet.

Woolerina takes superfine Merino fibres grown in Australia, knits them in Australia, then cuts and sews them in Australia to produce a small range of supersoft, super comfortable and super warm garments ideal to wear while riding in Australia.

They're even 'super wash' rated so you can take care of them on the road.

Motorcycling Australia members get 10% off the price of premium Woolerina products, just in time for winter.

Click here for more information on getting 10% off Woolerina products.

Rider Representation Strengthened

August 11, 2008

Motorcycling Australia has joined the Australian Government's motorcycle safety advisory body, the Motorcycle Safety Consultative Committee.

MA joins industry representatives, other rider groups and bureaucrats from the ATSB. The first meeting is to be held in Canberra on August 18, 2008.

We welcome your ideas on improving rider safety.  Member Forums will be held around Australia later in 2008. In the meantime, send your ideas to riders@ma.org.au

Riders' Rights News

Escape with Bikescape

August 6, 2008

If you want to rent the best bikes around, go directly to Bikescape. Do not pass GO. Do not collect $200. Do get 10% off Bikescape's standard rental rates if you are a Motorcycling Australia member.

Bikescape are in Annandale, not far from the heart of Sydney, and their fleet is kept shiny new and in great condition. Plus, they've been around since 1997, so their advice is invaluable. Click here to find out more.

Volunteer for the MotoGP and Get Free Entry

July 30, 2008

The official charity for the 2008 Australian MotoGP [3rd to 5th October] is Zaidee’s Rainbow Foundation, which supports organ and tissue donation awareness. Phillip Island will see a new "Zaidee’s Motorbike Pin and Patch" launched for riders to wear, reflecting their support for organ and tissue donation. 

A Triumph America in Zaidee’s Rainbow Colours will lead this year's Barry Sheene Run.

Greenhouse Questions

July 25, 2008

The Australian Government recently launched a website www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au to let consumers know about ways they can cut their greenhouse gas emissions by selecting less polluting vehicles.   Motorcycles aren't mentioned.

Why not?  They reduce pollution, traffic congestion,  parking problems and road damage.

If you'd like the Australian Government to include motorcycles as a part of the solution to climate change, click here to read how you can let the Government know about your concerns. Together we can make a difference.

International Rider Survey

July 24, 2008

The International Motorcycle Organisation (FIM) has created a survey which it will use to establish an international pattern of motorcycle usage to create a Strategy to improve motorcycling.

It's open to all riders and can be accessed by clicking here. [This link is in English, but it's also available in French, Spanish and German]

Krusty - Burger with the Lot

July 18, 2008

The Superbike and Supersport Hondas that Adam "Krusty" Fergusson won the 2004 Australian Superbike and Supersport Championships have just been delivered to the MA Museum at 147 Montague Street in South Melbourne.

They look sensational in fluoro orange. Members are invited to comeand see the bikes, and about 12 others at the Museum which is open M-F 9.00am-4.30pm or by appointment.

Travel with Charley

July 15, 2008

 Ride with Charley Boorman as he completes his latest filmic adventure.

The man who accompanied Ewan McGregor on the Long Way Round and the Long Way Down has ridden through 23 countries on his way here. Celebrate his success.

He'll be leaving from Woollongong  at 7.30 am next Tuesday [July 22, 2008] and riding to the Fleet Steps in Sydney, arriving at about 11.00am, where MA will put on a free BBQ for Motorcycling Australia members. Full details here

Ride with him, or just come for lunch. Bring a friend. RSVP to dan@ma.org.au

SuperX Ticket Offer

July 15, 2008

With the Australian Supercross Championship about to kick off in October at seven venues across the country, Motorcycling Australia members can get their hands on tickets before they officially go on sale next week.

This year's Championship will feature two-time AMA SuperX champ Aussie Chad Reed and a whole bunch of riders that are looking forward to the opportunity to prove themselves against Reed.

The Series kicks off on October 4th in Perth, before visiting Adelaide, Geelong, Sydney Woolongong Townsville and and huge final in Brissie.

As well as the traditional 20 lap, 20 rider finals, a series of spectacular new race formats are set to re-energise Supercross, with riders facing unique tests of speed and skill.

Click here for details on getting advance tickets. [Members only page]

Two Piece Suits, Half Piece Prices

July 11, 2008

Joe Rocket suits are among the very best off the peg rider gear you can get, and now, with new member partner, Merimbula Sports, Motorcycling Australia members can get Men's Joe Rocket GPX and GPXR leathers for half the normal price.

The GPXR suit, costs just $650 (normally $1,299) and features:

• 1.3 to 1.6mm natural uncorrected leather
• C.E. rated protectors in shoulders, knees and elbows.
• Removable spine pad with pocket for optional C.E. spine protector
• Free-air™ perforated ventilation system
• Full Flex™ windproof stretch panels on sleeves, legs, and crotch
• Beveled knee sliders with ceramic compound
• Zipper controlled sleeve vents
  

The GPX suit, normally $1,199 costs just $550. NOTE: There is a limited and broken size and colour range, so don't delay.  Click here for more details.

Eastlink is East

July 7, 2008

More than 2,500 motorcyclists gave voice to their concerns about a range of issues at the Eastlink Protest run on July 5 in Melbourne.

Speakers at the event included Honda MD Stuart Strickland, Professor Marcus Wigan, Organiser Lindsay Swift and local Liberal MP Neale Burgess who is a motorcyclist.

Motorcycling Australia lent its support to the event, providing 24litres of pumpkin soup and four kilograms of sausages to hungry protesters.

If you'd like to know more about Motorcycling Australia's political work on behalf of motorcyclists, click here. If you'd like to support us, join by clicking here.

Off Road Action

July 2, 2008

The South Australian Government is reviewing its public land  vehicle access policies which, if they become law will impact on the current use that motorcyclists enjoy in South Australia.

The SA Department for Conservation and Heritage is seeking public responses to its proposals, and MA encourages all affected motorcyclists to make their voice heard. You have until July 25, 2008 to do so.

Click here for more information

Save on the Road, Save On-Roads

June 25, 2008

If commuting is becoming a drag, put a smile on your face on an Arqin scooter.

The Arqin Sprint 125 will keep up with city traffic, and even has the legs to mix it on the freeway, while sipping fuel. It's the ideal commuter, and even comes with a top box, so you don't have to carry your helmet around all day.

Motorcycling Australia members can get the Sprint 125 free of On-Road costs, representing a saving of around $400. NOTE: Limited Time Offer- while stocks last.

Click here for more information.

Keeping it Yours

June 20, 2008

Motorcycles are notoriously easy to steal. A recent report from the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council show that bike thefts are increasing as a proportion of all thefts.

We'd like to do something about this, and have joined forces with DataDot Technology to cut the cost of providing an effective deterrent to bike theft. DataDots are invisible identifiers that can be painted on any part of your bike, that can then be used to identify the bike or its components. DataDots make your bike much less attractive to thieves.

Motorcycling Australia members get DataDot kits with a 50% discount ($99 for a kit)

Click here for more information.

Show them you're cross

June 14, 2008 [MELBOURNE]

With pressure being applied from all sides, motorcyclists need to show that we're not just going to lie back and take it.

In Victoria, the new Eastlink Consortium will be charging motorcyclists tolls, rather than welcoming bikes as a way of cutting congestion, reducing reliance on imported fuel, limiting CO₂ emissions, easing parking, and preventing road damage.

Together with the proposal to reintroduce front numberplates, the on-going TAC rider levy and the stealthy increase in wire rope barriers, it does seem that motorcyclists have become fair game.

Join us on a protest ride leaving from Doncaster Park and Ride [Melway ref: 46 K1] 12.00 noon on Saturday July 5, traveling to Frankston Civic Centre [Melway ref:100A C9]. Motorcycling Australia will be there, providing soup [if cold] or sausages [if warmer]. Click here for more information

Dirt Bike, Quad, Track Day Insurance

May 21, 2008

Have a dirt bike, or a track day machine and want to insure it? JLT Dirt Bike Insurance will protect it while it's in your garage or in transit.*

Motorcycling Australia members get $25 discount off JLT's already low premiums.

Click here for more information.           *(Read the Product Disclosure Statement for details)

Southern Exposure

May 7, 2008

If you've got holidays coming up and a desire to visit South Africa with a friend or partner, check out Due South Tour's August 2008 special.

Pay € 1,990.00 (about AU$3,000) and your pillion goes for free. Motorcycling Australia members save approx AU$1,700

The Lowveld Legend Tour starts on 3-10 or 17-24 August 2008 (8 nights / 7 days) and the price includes your bike, helmet- everything you need.

Click here for more information.

Reefton Madness

April 24, 2008

The latest Riders' Division ride, from Lilydale to Lake Mountain via the Reefton Spur was a huge success, with more than 40 hungry riders and pillions attacking the BBQ at the top of the Mountain.

You can read about the ride here, and follow our instructions on how you can follow in our wheeltracks. Stay tuned to this page for the next ride- to be held in Brisbane.

A Real Triumph

April 7, 2008

The waiting was over for our Triumph Twin giveaway winner, Steve Sawbridge of Baulkham Hills in Sydney when he was handed the key to his new claret and silver Bonneville T100 at BikeBiz in Parramatta.

He later wrote to me complaining that he was covered in bruises.... not because he'd dropped it, thank God, but becuase he'd been pinching himself to make sure it had really happened.

Out deep and sincere gratitude goes to Steve Chiodo and Mark Fattore from PS Imports, Alan Mackay at BikeGuard Insurance and Bob Walters at BikeBiz in Parramatta for their gracious assistance.  

All Points of the Compass

April 2, 2008

Well, that's not exactly true, but Compass Expeditions will take you to [almost] every part of South America, or if sheer lunacy is more your thing, how about riding from the Arctic to the Antarctic or from London to Vladivostok across Europe and Asia?

Discover the Extraordinary with Australian company Compass Expeditions, at a 7% discount if you are Motorcycling Australia member or licence holder.

Once you throw your leg over a Compass Expeditions bike [BMWs, all], you never need to put your hand on your wallet- everything's included in the price.

Click here for more information.

Finance Made Easy

March 27, 2008 

BikeFinance.net.au has joined MA's Member Benefits scheme so you get loans for new and used bikes and scooters through a range of lenders, ensuring you are get the best in competitive rates, and you get $50 off the application fee.

You can apply online or by phone, and  in most cases, your loan is approved in 24 hours. MA members also are subscribed to Greenfleet for free .

Click here for more information

Big Cuts in Boots, Gloves, Leathers and Luggage

March 25, 2008

No, I didn't fall off, but Shogai Imports Australia have joined Motorcycling Australia's member benefits scheme with a huge 20% off [for race licence holders] their regular prices on:

Riders' Division members get 10% off , but all orders over $350 also get a free Puma T-Shirt [while stocks last]. They can do this because they are the exclusive Australian importers of these brands.

Click here for more information

TeamMoto cuts $105 from Training Days for Members

March 19, 2008

Even Casey Stoner has a coach, and we can all learn more about motorcycling, especially riding safely. TeamMoto in Brisbane is extending a $105 discount to MA members who take part in their Advanced Roadcraft Course held at the Mt Cotton facility.

The course concentrates on riding on the road, teaching about the balance between the attitude that should keep you out of trouble in the first place and the skills you need to save you in the second place.

Normally $255, MA members get it for just $150 for the day. Click here for more details

We have a winner!!!

March 15, 2008

There was a big rush on as our Join to win a Triumph Competition ended, but there can only be one winner, and that was Steve Sawbridge of Baulkham Hills in NSW who is looking forward to receiving his new Triumph Bonneville T100 real soon.

Carbon Fibre, Alloy, Titanium and Unobtanium

March 6, 2008

Whether you're building a race bike and want the best, or building a street machine and want the coolest, you owe it to yourself to check out GZA who stock all the schmick gear to make your bike lighter, faster or just sicker (is that really what they say?)

Best of all, flash your piece of MA plastic and score at least 15% off the price of all that fabulous gear. Click here for more information

Bits & Pieces at Cut Rates

January 28, 2008

Whether you're restoring a bike, have thrown one down the road, or just need a mechanical part, your MA membership entitles you to 25% discount on all parts in stock from Which Bike Wreckers. If they need to buy in a part, you'll get 5% off.

Though located in Newcastle, they will ship to you anywhere in Australia. Click here for more information

Click here for Riders' News Archives