So......we can finally announce that this forum has our very own SD racer to support through the rest of the season!
Been working on this for a few weeks and today we can announce that Viking has an official sponsor that will finance his 2012 season so that he can stop worrying about costs and concentrate on his obsession with suspension settings and track layouts.
First off, I 'd like to say that none of this would have happened without the initial suggestion of TLS_Russ on this forum to get together and consider supporting Viking in his endeavours to take the SD into the Streetfighter class race series. Big respect to him, because having got to know Viking there is no way that he would have asked for this kind of support himself. TLS made this happen, he started you and me thinking and inspired the notion.
I, personally was inspired by the reactions of this forum to offer help, both financial and practical, to contribute to his potential success. It got me really thinking. Reading his posts, and your offers of help, I started to imagine what it would be like being a sponsor and what it would mean. My company is a branding company and, without boring you all with the details, we love a challenge and we love the idea of bringing together eclectic mixes of talented people and helping them achieve their ambitions and goals. It's how I built my company, it's why we are successful and it's a philosophy that we try and apply every where we see the opportunity.
It's been a two week mission for me. To go from an initial thought, a daydream, to pitching to a company board to part with a significant sum of money out of profits to support something as random as a bike racer is not easy to do.
But we did it!
Today at 3 pm I pitched the idea to the Echo board. Probably at the same time as Viking, Klinky, Shade, Millar and another 15 forum members were hooning around Caddders at the SD Crashfest, (what, no crashes guys!!!),
I was in a board room with more butterflies in my stomach than I've had in the last twenty years of presenting jobs to big clients!
What you guys have to understand is that my co directors, like most people, are not that immediately fired up by bikes and bike racing. They know I'm into bikes but so what. If I just asked for a load of cash to sponsor a bike racer that'd have turned me down flat. If I said I wanted to do this because I loved bikes and it was something I was passionate about they'd have laughed me out of the room. I had to think of another angle.
I put together an argument that told them what we would get out of it. The opportunities to apply our branding skills to the job. The opportunities to train our design team. The morale boosting and team building that it would bring. The PR opportunities to present our company in a different way that is probably unique in the design business. I mean, I don't know of anyone in my position ever doing anything like this before.
It sort of scares the shit out of me. Don't know what we're getting ourselves into.
But anyway, they said yes and two weeks of holding back on getting excited and talking to vIking and trying to keep expectations low was finally released today. They said yes.
I was half way home tonight, could't get hold of Viking as he had packed up and was already on his way home from Cadwell, we'd missed each others phone calls because I was on a train with no reception and Amy was on at me to get back and help put the twins to bed. Stopped in a field by the side of the road and went out into the middle of it and cracked a bottle wine open. ( yes, I always carry one around with me!)
So really, the story is about Viking. And the guy I finally got on the phone to from the middle of a field in Sussex this evening. I probably bored the shit out of him with my half drunken ranting and excitement but then he was so excited as well about what it meant to him. We both have a lot to gain out of this I'm sure.
I 've learned a lot about this guy over the last few weeks. What I've learned is between me and him but I can tell you this is a guy who is driven and passionate with a lot of integrity. He's got a natural talent for motors sports and he'll probably succeed at everything he attempts.
If this forum is supporting him, in any way they can, then we'll all have a lot of fun following his adventure. Financial backing is always the hardest bit to get. It's a shit. But this bit is now sorted.
So any practical help we can give him will do more to actually increase his chance of success. There's been a lot of offers of help on this forum, let's not make them empty promises. I know how easy it is to offer help but it's another thing to actually turn up in the day and actually do it.
Wouldn't it be fooking amazing if we could all contribute to getting a Superduke on the rostrum against all those Japanese 4's. Viking has a proven track record of getting underpowered, out classed machines in the top so bring it on!
bic_bicknell
2012-07-17 23:06:00 UTC
omky756
2012-07-17 23:44:00 UTC
Cheers to you Bic..!!!
That's a BIG deal...and it took a lot of thought to get it done...
Makes me proud too...Even if you guys are across the pond..I'd though
of putting in for a silly minded "Well...if I only had plane fair" I'd meet up
to help out at the track...
That's a BIG deal...and it took a lot of thought to get it done...
Makes me proud too...Even if you guys are across the pond..I'd though
of putting in for a silly minded "Well...if I only had plane fair" I'd meet up
to help out at the track...
Linga
2012-07-18 00:01:00 UTC
Well done Bic and good luck Viking!
Hope it all comes together for you mate, looks really good as the cash is the hardest part!
Hope it all comes together for you mate, looks really good as the cash is the hardest part!
Jermo
2012-07-18 00:03:00 UTC
That's great news!
Will this mean Viking gets a great new sticker design every race and his bike (and vids) will be shown at your companies presentations?
Please let me know when the races are broadcasted so I can check them through mypremium.tv
Will this mean Viking gets a great new sticker design every race and his bike (and vids) will be shown at your companies presentations?
Please let me know when the races are broadcasted so I can check them through mypremium.tv
SDNerd
2012-07-18 00:07:00 UTC
Wait a minute - was this money simply taken out of the "Hookers and Blow" budget, or what?
omky756
2012-07-18 00:19:00 UTC
Post missing.
Crotchrockety
2012-07-18 01:31:00 UTC
Awesome!
TLS_Russ
2012-07-18 03:40:00 UTC
Good morning Father John, my name is Bic Bicknell. Can I interest you in this box of latex condoms?
Excellent salesmanship Bic. Truly impressive outside the box thinking.
Excellent salesmanship Bic. Truly impressive outside the box thinking.
Sabre
2012-07-18 04:44:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-18 04:51:00 UTC
Good impressive work Bic,i've no doubt Viking is a very happy chap indeed and will do you proud. I'll try and get to the Cadwell race and help out any way i can,even if it's just making the tea
Linga
2012-07-18 05:55:00 UTC
URGENT!!
If we are to get a design done and printed up on vinyl ready for Viking's first race a week on Friday then I need to be on this immediately. Up until last night I was Just thinking I can use my bike, take it to work and let the design team work out all the best surfaces to use and draw up the templates onto which they can work.
But it just dawned on me that Viking's bike is an '06 model so everything is a different shape.
Does anyone out there have an ACCURATE set of guides or specifications for the early model Superduke that they could get over to me this week? We need the talk fairings, left and right, front mudguard, nose cone, belly pan, tail panels and single seat hump. We also would like to have the templates for the rest of the tank if possible. Know that some areas are covered in stomp grip but it's good to know anyway.
I seen to remember that miller might have all this info. Not sure.
We also need to know a top quality supplier to produce the vinyl panels QUICKLY. Better if they were London area but not essential. Anyone know?
Viking, I'm presuming you are still on dual seat and tail hump as in your photos? Not converted to an SDR single seat yet have you? Tell me if you have.
No idea yet how we get them onto your bike. We could DHL them up to you if we get the luxury of finishing them early, at worst we send someone out to Rockingham on race day and stick em on during your warm up lap!
If we are to get a design done and printed up on vinyl ready for Viking's first race a week on Friday then I need to be on this immediately. Up until last night I was Just thinking I can use my bike, take it to work and let the design team work out all the best surfaces to use and draw up the templates onto which they can work.
But it just dawned on me that Viking's bike is an '06 model so everything is a different shape.
Does anyone out there have an ACCURATE set of guides or specifications for the early model Superduke that they could get over to me this week? We need the talk fairings, left and right, front mudguard, nose cone, belly pan, tail panels and single seat hump. We also would like to have the templates for the rest of the tank if possible. Know that some areas are covered in stomp grip but it's good to know anyway.
I seen to remember that miller might have all this info. Not sure.
We also need to know a top quality supplier to produce the vinyl panels QUICKLY. Better if they were London area but not essential. Anyone know?
Viking, I'm presuming you are still on dual seat and tail hump as in your photos? Not converted to an SDR single seat yet have you? Tell me if you have.
No idea yet how we get them onto your bike. We could DHL them up to you if we get the luxury of finishing them early, at worst we send someone out to Rockingham on race day and stick em on during your warm up lap!
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-18 06:18:00 UTC
L R Designs were fantastic and have the battle decals on file...
http://www.lr-designs.co.uk/
http://www.lr-designs.co.uk/
skip
2012-07-18 06:27:00 UTC
Well done Bic, awesome effort!
I'll PM you Ben Millar's number, I'm sure he has the full layout for 06 panels.
I'll PM you Ben Millar's number, I'm sure he has the full layout for 06 panels.
samba
2012-07-18 06:56:00 UTC
Excellent news, well done Bic it couldnt of been easy convincing the company, well done to Russ as well for the initial suggestion!!!
samba
2012-07-18 07:36:00 UTC
crackin' stuff!! Maybe I'll pop down at watch the Oulton round.... I assume there is one?! will check in a minute...
TLS_Russ
2012-07-18 07:40:00 UTC
Post missing.
jmann
2012-07-18 07:59:00 UTC
Post missing.
jmann
2012-07-18 08:31:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-07-18 08:34:00 UTC
Fantastic BIC !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wish I'd been near that field. You've done really well. I'd be proud to display a "Echo/Viking" sticker on my bike maybe on the swingarm.
PS Happy to pay for a sticker as long as the profit goes to Viking.
Wish I'd been near that field. You've done really well. I'd be proud to display a "Echo/Viking" sticker on my bike maybe on the swingarm.
PS Happy to pay for a sticker as long as the profit goes to Viking.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-18 08:39:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-07-18 08:54:00 UTC
Hey Mate,
There isn't an exact Pantone match for the KTM orange. Also there are a few oranges that appear on different parts of the bike. (I actually don't like the orange on the SDR frame, it's got a bit of white in it I think)
Anyway, when I was making my rear view camera monitor unit I had the graphics made up as rubdowns to match the orange printed on the SD speedo.
The best Pantone match for this was Orange 172C
There isn't an exact Pantone match for the KTM orange. Also there are a few oranges that appear on different parts of the bike. (I actually don't like the orange on the SDR frame, it's got a bit of white in it I think)
Anyway, when I was making my rear view camera monitor unit I had the graphics made up as rubdowns to match the orange printed on the SD speedo.
The best Pantone match for this was Orange 172C
KTM666
2012-07-18 09:14:00 UTC
Post missing.
ktmguy
2012-07-18 09:17:00 UTC
Fantastic news....great work Bic
......and from what I saw at Cadwell ....money well spent
......and from what I saw at Cadwell ....money well spent
nampus
2012-07-18 09:24:00 UTC
One word: AWSOME!!!!!
Viking
2012-07-18 10:15:00 UTC
Can you beleive this is happening?
Really. Stop for a minute. Step back and rub your eyes, throw some water over yourself and take a good look. Forget it's an internet forum. Really open your eyes and absorb what is happening here. Can you actually believe this is happening?
Lets have a look at this. This is how utterly mad this is.
On the left we have A.
A= A 35 year old mechanic from Falkirk who is a bit obsessive, posts his confused ranty waffle on a Superduke website, decides as a crutch to cope with a family bereavement to race his old SD.
One the right we have B.
B= A huge UK major branding and marketing firm with no history and no interest in bike racing.
How the hell can these two completely different things possibly come together?
Through two men...........Russ and Bic...........this has happened. How many "chance" crossroads have come together at the exact right time to get here.
I say this alot....but humans overuse powerfull words so it devalues them. I cant even express what i think and feel just now. This happening is the combination of probably 20 "chances". One moment where there may be 10% of it heading this way and 90% going the normal way. These 10% chances have happened over and over lots of times over lots of situations and decisions and added up to get to this point. I mean come on. There is honestly more chance of winning the lottery than this happening.
I knew Bic was going into the meeting to pitch it to his partners. It was so bizzare i was fobbing it off a bit in my head. Up till now it's all just words typed on a forum or email. I had a crazy Cadwell trackday with ups and downs. Driving home and finally got a call from Bic. I dont know this guy. He's in a field in Surrey on is pushbike drinking a botte of wine. I'm sitting in a service station carpark somewhere near Doncaster heading home stinking of sweat and totally shattered.
I can hardly remember the phone call. It was like i was watching it on tv or something.
The main thing thats come out this is Bic and his company seem to be sponsoring me. As in, me for who i am and the journey i'm on. He doesn't expect me to win. He just wants me to keep being me and doing what i'm doing. It's really confusing coz he sees something i dont really see and dont know i'm doing.
You cant please everyone. I get there are guys out there who think i'm a dick. Totally accept that, all fine. Love it, hate it, dont care, not interested, supportive, negative......whatever. I dont have many good traits. All i am though is honest and and true. I am who i am and wont change. Get onboard and walk the path with us or dont. It's happening no matter what. Nobody, even Bic and me, has any idea where this road is going. We're making this up as we go along. What an epic journey this is going to be!
LETS GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Really. Stop for a minute. Step back and rub your eyes, throw some water over yourself and take a good look. Forget it's an internet forum. Really open your eyes and absorb what is happening here. Can you actually believe this is happening?
Lets have a look at this. This is how utterly mad this is.
On the left we have A.
A= A 35 year old mechanic from Falkirk who is a bit obsessive, posts his confused ranty waffle on a Superduke website, decides as a crutch to cope with a family bereavement to race his old SD.
One the right we have B.
B= A huge UK major branding and marketing firm with no history and no interest in bike racing.
How the hell can these two completely different things possibly come together?
Through two men...........Russ and Bic...........this has happened. How many "chance" crossroads have come together at the exact right time to get here.
I say this alot....but humans overuse powerfull words so it devalues them. I cant even express what i think and feel just now. This happening is the combination of probably 20 "chances". One moment where there may be 10% of it heading this way and 90% going the normal way. These 10% chances have happened over and over lots of times over lots of situations and decisions and added up to get to this point. I mean come on. There is honestly more chance of winning the lottery than this happening.
I knew Bic was going into the meeting to pitch it to his partners. It was so bizzare i was fobbing it off a bit in my head. Up till now it's all just words typed on a forum or email. I had a crazy Cadwell trackday with ups and downs. Driving home and finally got a call from Bic. I dont know this guy. He's in a field in Surrey on is pushbike drinking a botte of wine. I'm sitting in a service station carpark somewhere near Doncaster heading home stinking of sweat and totally shattered.
I can hardly remember the phone call. It was like i was watching it on tv or something.
The main thing thats come out this is Bic and his company seem to be sponsoring me. As in, me for who i am and the journey i'm on. He doesn't expect me to win. He just wants me to keep being me and doing what i'm doing. It's really confusing coz he sees something i dont really see and dont know i'm doing.
You cant please everyone. I get there are guys out there who think i'm a dick. Totally accept that, all fine. Love it, hate it, dont care, not interested, supportive, negative......whatever. I dont have many good traits. All i am though is honest and and true. I am who i am and wont change. Get onboard and walk the path with us or dont. It's happening no matter what. Nobody, even Bic and me, has any idea where this road is going. We're making this up as we go along. What an epic journey this is going to be!
LETS GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
TLS_Russ
2012-07-18 11:31:00 UTC
Yea most of the time human nature makes you feel sick, but every now and again if you dont give up on it something inspirational like this can happen.....
Bert
2012-07-18 11:48:00 UTC
Post missing.
Ducati Pete
2012-07-18 12:07:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-07-18 12:16:00 UTC
I'll mail Bic direct with the sizes for number boards. Dans original Redbull ones ended up not being ACU legal.
Will need some help on side panel sizes and 05 tank though if anyone got them?
Will need some help on side panel sizes and 05 tank though if anyone got them?
Jermo
2012-07-18 12:56:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-07-18 13:26:00 UTC
Post missing.
Superdan
2012-07-18 14:52:00 UTC
Wow, fantastic backing, well done Echo designs and Bic
Another EDIT, send Bic the designs, I have most of the designs saved on PDF 05-06 and 07> tank and side panels and 06 numberboard.
Bert if you can host them somewhere else and edit the original PDF's in theis post thread? Can send them to you, (I have no idea how to do it)
Another EDIT, send Bic the designs, I have most of the designs saved on PDF 05-06 and 07> tank and side panels and 06 numberboard.
Bert if you can host them somewhere else and edit the original PDF's in theis post thread? Can send them to you, (I have no idea how to do it)
Jermo
2012-07-18 15:30:00 UTC
Use Dropbox
Bert
2012-07-18 16:49:00 UTC
OK, I did a search on my hard drive and it seems that some time ago I've gathered logo's and stuff.
I've uploaded them to google drive and shared the folder:
https://docs.google.com/folder/d/0B6w5j ... dTbGM/edit
This is shared to the world. No login needed.
I've uploaded them to google drive and shared the folder:
https://docs.google.com/folder/d/0B6w5j ... dTbGM/edit
This is shared to the world. No login needed.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-18 17:51:00 UTC
Who has a superduke.net logo as a PDF or an illustrator file? Is it Millar? If I get one we can maybe incorporate it in somewhere.
lawman
2012-07-18 18:33:00 UTC
Well done Bic
Having met Viking at crash fest, it couldn't have gone to a nicer and more enthusiastic person
Good luck to everyone involved
Having met Viking at crash fest, it couldn't have gone to a nicer and more enthusiastic person
Good luck to everyone involved
stalker
2012-07-18 18:50:00 UTC
good work
bic_bicknell
2012-07-19 22:08:00 UTC
So, it's now been a few days since we got the deal signed off to sponsor Viking and things are going at a fast pace!
I really want to take the Friday off to go meet him in person and support his first race. Not sure if I can make it, two of my co-directors are on holiday and maybe I just have to be at work that day. The weekend is out because of the kids. I don't know. This seems too important not to go for at least one day.
But...
He needs help, if any one here can go along and help him pit crew please do. Come on, this is a Superduke.net thing. You'd be part of something really special.
I really want to take the Friday off to go meet him in person and support his first race. Not sure if I can make it, two of my co-directors are on holiday and maybe I just have to be at work that day. The weekend is out because of the kids. I don't know. This seems too important not to go for at least one day.
But...
He needs help, if any one here can go along and help him pit crew please do. Come on, this is a Superduke.net thing. You'd be part of something really special.
Jermo
2012-07-19 22:40:00 UTC
Is there already a public Facebook page about Vikings racing? Something like a team Echo racing page your company can use to update business partners and all other interested. Loads of pictures with your superduke designs and paddock pictures with Echo's name on it.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-20 04:12:00 UTC
Not yet Germo, but there will be. We just need a bit of time to get things sorted.
Initial plan, it might change, is to have a dedicated website for Viking with what you suggest, pictures, updates and news. But for us the main thing is to try and persuade Viking to write a blog on it about his experiences, Go -Go style so anyone can follow the highs and lows of a racing at this level.
Gordon is a great writer, he doesn't seem to know it yet, but he's open and honest and pours his heart out. Not many people are interested in tables of suspension settings and lap times, (on their own), but mixed up with the human element they make a good read. Don't want to burden the guy with too much extra commitments to his already mental work/prep/racing schedule but apart from getting as many photos he can, fly on the wall style, of his life this is probably the most important aspect of the project for Echo.
It's certainly not about getting a baseball cap with our name on it and contracting the poor guy to always wear it in bed at night.
The other thing is that I though it would be good to have a section on his site dedicated to the Superduke.net forum. Could be used for having a list of all the parts and spares that he might need. Last thing we want is for him to miss races because of some bit that has to be ordered or something. He could post up a list of essential bits and a wish list for parts that would help. Any forum members that wanted to donate a part could just ship is off to him.
Big, expensive bits could always result in a graphic credit being added to the graphics for the next race!
Initial plan, it might change, is to have a dedicated website for Viking with what you suggest, pictures, updates and news. But for us the main thing is to try and persuade Viking to write a blog on it about his experiences, Go -Go style so anyone can follow the highs and lows of a racing at this level.
Gordon is a great writer, he doesn't seem to know it yet, but he's open and honest and pours his heart out. Not many people are interested in tables of suspension settings and lap times, (on their own), but mixed up with the human element they make a good read. Don't want to burden the guy with too much extra commitments to his already mental work/prep/racing schedule but apart from getting as many photos he can, fly on the wall style, of his life this is probably the most important aspect of the project for Echo.
It's certainly not about getting a baseball cap with our name on it and contracting the poor guy to always wear it in bed at night.
The other thing is that I though it would be good to have a section on his site dedicated to the Superduke.net forum. Could be used for having a list of all the parts and spares that he might need. Last thing we want is for him to miss races because of some bit that has to be ordered or something. He could post up a list of essential bits and a wish list for parts that would help. Any forum members that wanted to donate a part could just ship is off to him.
Big, expensive bits could always result in a graphic credit being added to the graphics for the next race!
bic_bicknell
2012-07-20 04:15:00 UTC
On the Facebook front....
Viking does have a Facebook page now but whether he wants everyone to friend him there is up to him. I guess if he wants that he can post up his details on here.
Viking does have a Facebook page now but whether he wants everyone to friend him there is up to him. I guess if he wants that he can post up his details on here.
TLS_Russ
2012-07-20 05:15:00 UTC
"I love it when a plan comes together" bit corny I know
bic_bicknell
2012-07-20 06:14:00 UTC
Yes, first thought I had was that ther is potential for involving our clients if the mix is right. Biggest problem is that the huge global companies like Unilever, Molson Coors etc will have their own departments that deal with PR and sponsorship and they will be locked down and hard to access, even for us working with the senior marketing teams on branding.
The smaller companies are a better bet because we're dealing with the decision makers and sometimes even the owners. But they have much smaller budgets and far less money to throw away.
Problem with WD40 is that they are kind of neither of the above. Big US company, relatively small UK operation. It's driven out of the US but we work for regional UK brands and they wouldn't have the clout to authorise sponsorship I don't think. Ironically, we have a big presentation to them today, maybe if the project goes well we can put it to them. Better if we do this once we have a bike liveried up at the end of next week. Patience and tactics eh
We used to work for Shell. Wow, if that was the case now I could get Viking free Advance oil for life!!!! I do know some people there and was thinking about contacting them. Same thing as above though, better for them to see we are up and running first and that we are serious. In the 1990s I designed all the consumer lubricant packaging for BP. The graphics have changed but it's still the bottle I created al those years ago. Don't have any contacts there now I'm afraid, they've probably all died of old age!
The smaller companies are a better bet because we're dealing with the decision makers and sometimes even the owners. But they have much smaller budgets and far less money to throw away.
Problem with WD40 is that they are kind of neither of the above. Big US company, relatively small UK operation. It's driven out of the US but we work for regional UK brands and they wouldn't have the clout to authorise sponsorship I don't think. Ironically, we have a big presentation to them today, maybe if the project goes well we can put it to them. Better if we do this once we have a bike liveried up at the end of next week. Patience and tactics eh
We used to work for Shell. Wow, if that was the case now I could get Viking free Advance oil for life!!!! I do know some people there and was thinking about contacting them. Same thing as above though, better for them to see we are up and running first and that we are serious. In the 1990s I designed all the consumer lubricant packaging for BP. The graphics have changed but it's still the bottle I created al those years ago. Don't have any contacts there now I'm afraid, they've probably all died of old age!
bic_bicknell
2012-07-20 06:31:00 UTC
On the parts front.
meant to sayg ood one TLSRuss!
meant to sayg ood one TLSRuss!
Jermo
2012-07-20 11:01:00 UTC
Good start would be a thread in the Wanted section.
motoronin
2012-07-20 11:15:00 UTC
Good skills guys...
41KS
2012-07-20 11:27:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-07-21 22:28:00 UTC
Keep reading this and still struggling to take it in. A bit embarrassed by all the kind words tbh. I really appreciate it but this spotlight that's pointing at me is making me squirm a bit coz I'm not used to it.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-21 23:39:00 UTC
So that's the deal, all you Superduke forum guys. He's too modest and focussed on what he's doing. They are coming from me because I've decided that this is a challenge and opportunity to actually do something real that I'm passionate about and I'm interested to see whether all the positive vibes and offers of help from the forum are genuine and whether we actually do care about being part of an adventure together.
Let's see.....
Let's see.....
bic_bicknell
2012-07-22 09:35:00 UTC
I don't know any of the guys involved, but I've known people trying to manage amature racing and know how hard it is, so it's great tho hear this.
I can't help with parts etc, but I can offer any it/website/hosting requirements. So if you need a website put together (not design), let me know. It might be good to think about a blog and twitter updates too (e.g.laptimes feed on twitter)?
I can't help with parts etc, but I can offer any it/website/hosting requirements. So if you need a website put together (not design), let me know. It might be good to think about a blog and twitter updates too (e.g.laptimes feed on twitter)?
Superdan
2012-07-22 11:46:00 UTC
Hey Driesie, that's a great offer!
Because Echo can do all the design and navigation principles of websites etc but we have no idea about how to host them or make them work. If you're serious then we should have a chat about what it would all entail.
Where do you work? I see that you are in London, you work for a web company in London?y
Because Echo can do all the design and navigation principles of websites etc but we have no idea about how to host them or make them work. If you're serious then we should have a chat about what it would all entail.
Where do you work? I see that you are in London, you work for a web company in London?y
MADDOG53
2012-07-22 12:05:00 UTC
*hangs around patiently awaiting to see new graphics*
bic_bicknell
2012-07-22 12:24:00 UTC
Who is going to make up the "Viking tee's",,,
Superdan
2012-07-22 12:56:00 UTC
We still need an artwork for the Superduke.net logo. Not promising that it will make it onto the bike, at least not in a prominent position anyway.
We can recreate it but it will take valuable time that we don't really have on Monday.
We can recreate it but it will take valuable time that we don't really have on Monday.
stalker
2012-07-22 13:01:00 UTC
Millar has it if you PM him.
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-22 13:35:00 UTC
Post missing.
Millar
2012-07-22 19:01:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-22 21:34:00 UTC
Post missing.
Millar
2012-07-22 22:03:00 UTC
Bic, I've just emailed you the SDnet logo.
Have you done the deal with LRdesign, cos you could always approach Crispy. He's just set up his own graphics design/ printing business and might well be up for a collaboration.
I've got some nylon, so could probably rustle up a couple of crash bungs when I have some spare time.
Have you done the deal with LRdesign, cos you could always approach Crispy. He's just set up his own graphics design/ printing business and might well be up for a collaboration.
I've got some nylon, so could probably rustle up a couple of crash bungs when I have some spare time.
Superdan
2012-07-23 03:17:00 UTC
Hi Ben! been trying to track you down for days!
Good thinking about Crispy, I'd forgotten about that possibility. Maybe he'll see this post and get in touch?
L&R designs just the most expedient this week to get the turnaround we need. Longer term we can do it other ways.
Cheers for the artworks.
Other thing I'm going to have to sort out this morning is the cutter guides for this belly an because it's not the SD one so not sure whether the surfaces are compound or not. Do you know?
Good thinking about Crispy, I'd forgotten about that possibility. Maybe he'll see this post and get in touch?
L&R designs just the most expedient this week to get the turnaround we need. Longer term we can do it other ways.
Cheers for the artworks.
Other thing I'm going to have to sort out this morning is the cutter guides for this belly an because it's not the SD one so not sure whether the surfaces are compound or not. Do you know?
bic_bicknell
2012-07-23 20:07:00 UTC
"fraid I don't have anything for the belly pan.
Your best bet might be to have it printed on wrap vinyl, as MX stuff will be a pain on a rounded surface.
I'll drop Crispy a line.
Your best bet might be to have it printed on wrap vinyl, as MX stuff will be a pain on a rounded surface.
I'll drop Crispy a line.
No. 47
2012-07-23 20:13:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-23 20:37:00 UTC
Thanks for the tips guys. Had some experience with this stuff before and know it can be frustrating.
Me and Ash, my design director, are still here now working on the design layout, it's 9pm and I started work at 4 this morning! Bit knackered but we have only got tonight, I won't be going home, this is a sleep under the tables job, ha ha
Other option is that they help put on the large panels, (which is a bit of a technique and something they will be good at doing fast), and I go down on Friday and put on all the other separate bits - which needs a good eye and some careful confidence - which I have. But I need to be free and we're stacked at work.
We'll see.
Viking......if you read this.....if I come up on the bike on Friday will I be able to get into the paddock on bike or will I have to pay as a spectator and somehow ring you so we can meet up and you can get me in with one of your passes.? What's the best way?
Me and Ash, my design director, are still here now working on the design layout, it's 9pm and I started work at 4 this morning! Bit knackered but we have only got tonight, I won't be going home, this is a sleep under the tables job, ha ha
Other option is that they help put on the large panels, (which is a bit of a technique and something they will be good at doing fast), and I go down on Friday and put on all the other separate bits - which needs a good eye and some careful confidence - which I have. But I need to be free and we're stacked at work.
We'll see.
Viking......if you read this.....if I come up on the bike on Friday will I be able to get into the paddock on bike or will I have to pay as a spectator and somehow ring you so we can meet up and you can get me in with one of your passes.? What's the best way?
Viking
2012-07-23 21:09:00 UTC
Can bring one of my spare 2008 Battle bellypan (and mask but not sure if that's what Viking is using?) into London tomorrow if that helps.
No. 47
2012-07-23 21:43:00 UTC
Viking's is a Replicast one, I think that this is different to yours?
bic_bicknell
2012-07-23 21:47:00 UTC
Bic- You'll get in for free as it's a test day. I have a competitors pass though so any problems and i'll get you in. Testing works similar to a trackday so i get 4x 18min sessions in am and 3x 15min sessions in pm. Got some things i need to try on the bike after it being so slow at Cadwell so will be out in all sessions. Plenty time inbetween though.
No47- Is it the Replicast one? If so thats the one i'm using so that'd be great. I still use the 05 style mask as it's a little bit bigger and i like the look too. Proud of my 05 heritige.
No47- Is it the Replicast one? If so thats the one i'm using so that'd be great. I still use the 05 style mask as it's a little bit bigger and i like the look too. Proud of my 05 heritige.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-23 22:16:00 UTC
Bellypan is Replicast - mask is '08 Battle so different,I guess, to Viking's.
Bic - let me know as soon as re the bellypan and, if you need it, where you are.
Bic - let me know as soon as re the bellypan and, if you need it, where you are.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-23 22:27:00 UTC
Hi no.47
Well, I need it now and I'm still at work now!
Bellypan is the part that's causing us the most issues because we have photos of the thing but it's impossible to tell what is graphic area and what is not because of curves or cut outs. From the side it looks like its got a nice elliptical section but from other banked over shots it looks like it has a big flat bottom. Frustrating because to not know meant we cannot exploit the surface area and this part is one of the best for visibility on racetrack.
But we'll have to make do with guessing. Unless we could look at one in the flesh before, say, 10 o'clock tomorrow morning it will be too late to put any learning into the design and get the artwork sent off in time. I think we have until 12 midday to get everything finished.
Thanks for the offer though.
Well, I need it now and I'm still at work now!
Bellypan is the part that's causing us the most issues because we have photos of the thing but it's impossible to tell what is graphic area and what is not because of curves or cut outs. From the side it looks like its got a nice elliptical section but from other banked over shots it looks like it has a big flat bottom. Frustrating because to not know meant we cannot exploit the surface area and this part is one of the best for visibility on racetrack.
But we'll have to make do with guessing. Unless we could look at one in the flesh before, say, 10 o'clock tomorrow morning it will be too late to put any learning into the design and get the artwork sent off in time. I think we have until 12 midday to get everything finished.
Thanks for the offer though.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-24 03:46:00 UTC
Well, it's been quite a while since I slept at the studio! Ash and me got quite a lot done last night, it's looking good and we have this morning to get things working better.
It's now so early but I have to wake up and get on with my day job until 9. (got a REALLY exciting design project on and it's in the early stages of concept so really intense).
I knew that this first time would be hard, given the timings and the result will just be a trial. There's no way that we can understand the full potential of what we can do without the physical bike there in front of us and the ability to measure things properly. We also have no idea about the scale of how things work on a race bike and how we can use our brand to best effect.
Never realised just how hard it would be though. And only having one day
It's now so early but I have to wake up and get on with my day job until 9. (got a REALLY exciting design project on and it's in the early stages of concept so really intense).
I knew that this first time would be hard, given the timings and the result will just be a trial. There's no way that we can understand the full potential of what we can do without the physical bike there in front of us and the ability to measure things properly. We also have no idea about the scale of how things work on a race bike and how we can use our brand to best effect.
Never realised just how hard it would be though. And only having one day
skip
2012-07-24 04:05:00 UTC
in advance of all you lot wondering what this bike might end up looking like eventually here's a head's up on echo's new corporate identity. It was only unveiled to the staff yesterday so it's very new. It's not been applied to anything yet, no printing of cards or stationery, no applications.
Viking's bike is the first place this will be ever seen in public.
What I love about this identity is that it's for a branding company. Echo create identities, logos, and the whole way brands look and feel. One of the golden rules about branding is that your logo, (or the mark that represents your brand - like the Nike tick), does not change. It's locked down totally. You cannot mess with it.
But we have broken all the rules. We have multiple brand marks. So everyone in the company can have a unique identity because that's what they are. We've actually designed and crafted 20, that's probably enough because with a versatile colour pallette there are hundreds of combinations.
But if you look the typography is very clever. They are all different with different personalities but they all look like they are the same brand. They all occupy exactly the same space and they all have exactly the same weight. You could take any one of these echo logos and swap them over and they would work as well and not upset the balance of anything. On their own they are beautiful, but together they are better. This is exactly what we wanted to achieve and it will cause a stir when we start PRing what we've done. We'll get a story in the design world with or without a bike but this will be even better!
I'm very proud of what we've done here and especially proud of the skills of my design director Ashley Carter and my co-creative director Nigel Ritchie. Well done guys!
Viking's bike is the first place this will be ever seen in public.
What I love about this identity is that it's for a branding company. Echo create identities, logos, and the whole way brands look and feel. One of the golden rules about branding is that your logo, (or the mark that represents your brand - like the Nike tick), does not change. It's locked down totally. You cannot mess with it.
But we have broken all the rules. We have multiple brand marks. So everyone in the company can have a unique identity because that's what they are. We've actually designed and crafted 20, that's probably enough because with a versatile colour pallette there are hundreds of combinations.
But if you look the typography is very clever. They are all different with different personalities but they all look like they are the same brand. They all occupy exactly the same space and they all have exactly the same weight. You could take any one of these echo logos and swap them over and they would work as well and not upset the balance of anything. On their own they are beautiful, but together they are better. This is exactly what we wanted to achieve and it will cause a stir when we start PRing what we've done. We'll get a story in the design world with or without a bike but this will be even better!
I'm very proud of what we've done here and especially proud of the skills of my design director Ashley Carter and my co-creative director Nigel Ritchie. Well done guys!
omky756
2012-07-25 07:49:00 UTC
Here's the concept visuals for Viking's race-bike with the new Echo identity applied. Artwork has gone up to L&Rdesigns and vinyl should be all ready for him to arrive at their premises on the way down to Rockingham on Thursday where Lee and his guys will run out and help Gordon get it all stuck on.
Jermo
2012-07-25 07:57:00 UTC
Looking good will he still have room for anyone else that may want to help him?
Viking
2012-07-25 21:22:00 UTC
The bike will be a bit different for Anglesey in August. There was limited time to get the bike on brand quickly for Rockingham
We picked up a new local sponsor today. Should come in handy. Guy is very keen to help out and i'm really impressed with his quality of work. Finish is like glass.
Well, this is it. All training is done. Bike is as ready as its going to be. Van is packed to bursting with kit.
Leave 7am ish tommorrow moring, drive to L&R to get Echo Brand graphics applied them onward to the track. Testing friday, qually and 2 races saturday, warm up and 2 races sunday.
Feel really calm. Heads in the right place. Lets see how this goes.
We picked up a new local sponsor today. Should come in handy. Guy is very keen to help out and i'm really impressed with his quality of work. Finish is like glass.
Well, this is it. All training is done. Bike is as ready as its going to be. Van is packed to bursting with kit.
Leave 7am ish tommorrow moring, drive to L&R to get Echo Brand graphics applied them onward to the track. Testing friday, qually and 2 races saturday, warm up and 2 races sunday.
Feel really calm. Heads in the right place. Lets see how this goes.
CEREC1
2012-07-25 21:59:00 UTC
Great to hear all is going to plan mate. You replaced the gazebo from Cadwell yet?
Are you going to get time to give us progress updates on the practice sessions?
Never had any interest in domestic series until you stepped up to the plate.
Good luck Viking.
Are you going to get time to give us progress updates on the practice sessions?
Never had any interest in domestic series until you stepped up to the plate.
Good luck Viking.
Ducati Pete
2012-07-25 22:09:00 UTC
Good luck mate.
During the race, remember you're racing within class A on that grid - those are the only bikes around you that matter.
During the race, remember you're racing within class A on that grid - those are the only bikes around you that matter.
Ducati Pete
2012-07-25 22:33:00 UTC
Also, post some pics of what the bike REALLY looks like.
I'm not falling for Bic's cunning troll job - I know they didn't come up with that scheme on the last page!
I'm not falling for Bic's cunning troll job - I know they didn't come up with that scheme on the last page!
bic_bicknell
2012-07-26 04:10:00 UTC
So, today's the day Viking's bike gets to meet it's new vinyl. Hope everything goes to plan, usually in this situation I'd have a designer on site to make sure that things went right but due to location and timing it's not possible.
I've managed to get tomorrow free so I'm going to ride up to Rockingham and finally get to meet Viking and spend the day measuring up every panel correctly so that we can get the second generation design right and fully exploit all the panels available.
Anglesey is the real first opportunity for us to launch the Echo identity and we'll probably keep any PR exposure of this first weekend to a minimum. Timings mean that we just haven't been able to get anything else ready. We have no continuity to our existing website or corporate look at all and we we need the next month to gear up.
But this Has given us a steep learning curve about the process of design for a bike, dealing with a vinyl supplier and how to logistically work. Best thing really is that I know that the design team has to realise that to get standout on a race track you have to be REALLY BOLD! Our first design is relatively subtle. It has very considered typography, (it might look thrown together but it's not), but I think that when we see photos of it on track or TV footage they will begin to realise that it's actually really subtle and doesn't have enough impact.
Much of the type is too small and our corporate colour pallete, (all secondary colours) don't have the same impact as primary and dayglo colours. (Think about Rossi's colour palette. It gives you a migraine!!!) But they are quick learners. Next time we will have evolved the design based on what they see from this time.
Anyway, on Monday Viking spent all day in agony waiting for us to send though our proposed design. Today it's my turn to wait until about 2 or 3 o'clock to see a phone photo of the bike after L&Rdesigns have done their thing.
Can't wait!
I've managed to get tomorrow free so I'm going to ride up to Rockingham and finally get to meet Viking and spend the day measuring up every panel correctly so that we can get the second generation design right and fully exploit all the panels available.
Anglesey is the real first opportunity for us to launch the Echo identity and we'll probably keep any PR exposure of this first weekend to a minimum. Timings mean that we just haven't been able to get anything else ready. We have no continuity to our existing website or corporate look at all and we we need the next month to gear up.
But this Has given us a steep learning curve about the process of design for a bike, dealing with a vinyl supplier and how to logistically work. Best thing really is that I know that the design team has to realise that to get standout on a race track you have to be REALLY BOLD! Our first design is relatively subtle. It has very considered typography, (it might look thrown together but it's not), but I think that when we see photos of it on track or TV footage they will begin to realise that it's actually really subtle and doesn't have enough impact.
Much of the type is too small and our corporate colour pallete, (all secondary colours) don't have the same impact as primary and dayglo colours. (Think about Rossi's colour palette. It gives you a migraine!!!) But they are quick learners. Next time we will have evolved the design based on what they see from this time.
Anyway, on Monday Viking spent all day in agony waiting for us to send though our proposed design. Today it's my turn to wait until about 2 or 3 o'clock to see a phone photo of the bike after L&Rdesigns have done their thing.
Can't wait!
nampus
2012-07-26 11:34:00 UTC
I really like the design! Hope the actual thing turns out to be at least just as nice! Good luck with the racing Gordon! Have fun!
No. 47
2012-07-26 12:47:00 UTC
Do you need a bellypan in advance of the second hit?
bic_bicknell
2012-07-26 12:57:00 UTC
I think Gordon has another one on it's way. Meeting him tomorrow so I'll let you know.
TLS_Russ
2012-07-26 13:48:00 UTC
Post missing.
omky756
2012-07-27 17:04:00 UTC
Waiting for the pics of the new graphics installed ..
And the smile on your faces...
And the smile on your faces...
Jermo
2012-07-27 17:13:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-07-27 18:44:00 UTC
Brill news! Well done guys. I said I'd help and I'd really like to. Do you have a Paypal account or similar I could chip in to? I dont think I have any SD spares that would be useful to you but would be delighted to help in other ways. Once again delighted to hear the news.
Cheers
Tango2
Cheers
Tango2
Jermo
2012-07-27 19:30:00 UTC
Hi Tango. A man of your word. I like that! Any help would be greatly appreciated. I'll pm you the info.
Testing went well. Bic took lots of pics so I'll get him to post them up.
Bikes not a million miles away. Getting a lot of attention and praise after every session. Seem to be on pace. We times series leader at consistent 1min 33's. I'm doing 1min 35's with a best so far of 1.35.07. Not riding fully balls out banzai onnit so feel I could hit those times with a few laps tucked in behind him. Recognise 4 or 5 of the front running bikes from tv. Doesn't seem a lot in it. They're a lot more consistent and cut through traffic better than me though. It's taking a bit of time to get used to running so close to other bikes. They're going to allow me to race with the camera on so will have the full footage from all races to keep for posterity.
Really awesome championship. Everyone is really friendly and supportive. It's like one big family right through all classes.
Has a good bit banter with Fast Bikes journo and ex Battle rider Alister Fagan. He'd been watching me testing and was really complimentary. Made my day! Going to have a chat about setups etc at some point over the weekend. Bike is pretty good though. Just be more for gaining knowledge on my part.
Qualifying tomorrow then 2 races. That's where it counts so we'll see how it goes. Think I've done too many laps on that rear tyre today. Moving a bit on the throttle and pumping on the shock. See how it goes tomorrow. Forecast is for rain Sunday for TV day so that might help us.
Testing went well. Bic took lots of pics so I'll get him to post them up.
Bikes not a million miles away. Getting a lot of attention and praise after every session. Seem to be on pace. We times series leader at consistent 1min 33's. I'm doing 1min 35's with a best so far of 1.35.07. Not riding fully balls out banzai onnit so feel I could hit those times with a few laps tucked in behind him. Recognise 4 or 5 of the front running bikes from tv. Doesn't seem a lot in it. They're a lot more consistent and cut through traffic better than me though. It's taking a bit of time to get used to running so close to other bikes. They're going to allow me to race with the camera on so will have the full footage from all races to keep for posterity.
Really awesome championship. Everyone is really friendly and supportive. It's like one big family right through all classes.
Has a good bit banter with Fast Bikes journo and ex Battle rider Alister Fagan. He'd been watching me testing and was really complimentary. Made my day! Going to have a chat about setups etc at some point over the weekend. Bike is pretty good though. Just be more for gaining knowledge on my part.
Qualifying tomorrow then 2 races. That's where it counts so we'll see how it goes. Think I've done too many laps on that rear tyre today. Moving a bit on the throttle and pumping on the shock. See how it goes tomorrow. Forecast is for rain Sunday for TV day so that might help us.
omky756
2012-07-27 19:57:00 UTC
Good to hear you had a good day, really looking forward to the video's!
bic_bicknell
2012-07-27 22:52:00 UTC
Yo Bic.!!!!
Dude...we know you're busy....
But...
What's up with the pics bro.????
Kodamm!!!!
Dude...we know you're busy....
But...
What's up with the pics bro.????
Kodamm!!!!
Linga
2012-07-27 23:16:00 UTC
Man, I got problems!!!
350 miles round trip at totally illegal motorway speeds, get back and my shoulders and neck and back are killing. But the twins need to get asleep they are screaming and got chickenpox and the two year old is too hot and being bitten by Mosquitos and the Olympic ceremony is on and I'm trying to watch it but not look at the fooking torch that should have been my design but I don't want to be a bad looser, but I am, and to cap it all.......
...the computer has a problem and will not connect to the Internet so I can't post pictures or films, but my iPad does connect up, so I can write this, but I can't get the pictures from my phone or camera onto it.
Bummer! Shit, fook, bummer
Great to meet Viking finally. Brilliant day. He's only 2 seconds of the series leader pace on second practice. He's a nice bloke. No regrets.
350 miles round trip at totally illegal motorway speeds, get back and my shoulders and neck and back are killing. But the twins need to get asleep they are screaming and got chickenpox and the two year old is too hot and being bitten by Mosquitos and the Olympic ceremony is on and I'm trying to watch it but not look at the fooking torch that should have been my design but I don't want to be a bad looser, but I am, and to cap it all.......
...the computer has a problem and will not connect to the Internet so I can't post pictures or films, but my iPad does connect up, so I can write this, but I can't get the pictures from my phone or camera onto it.
Bummer! Shit, fook, bummer
Great to meet Viking finally. Brilliant day. He's only 2 seconds of the series leader pace on second practice. He's a nice bloke. No regrets.
Jermo
2012-07-27 23:24:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-27 23:33:00 UTC
Can't you just wake up the neighbors and tell them you need a computer with internet ASAP for an emergency?
Linga
2012-07-27 23:46:00 UTC
Can't. The ipad is synced with my Mac at work, not the Mac at home.
Why can't I do both?
I don't know. Steve Jobs and Johnathan Ive, why can't I do this seemingly simple thing?
I don't have any neighbours.
Why can't I do both?
I don't know. Steve Jobs and Johnathan Ive, why can't I do this seemingly simple thing?
I don't have any neighbours.
stalker
2012-07-28 00:00:00 UTC
God bless Steve!
It's like having a race car that you can only use on some circuits...
It's like having a race car that you can only use on some circuits...
bic_bicknell
2012-07-28 07:13:00 UTC
bic_bicknell
2012-07-28 10:23:00 UTC
Here's some picture. I found a way!
Jermo
2012-07-28 13:09:00 UTC
Latest update.
Viking just qualified 6th out of 21! Remember, this is his first outing against many who are more experienced and have faster, more track orientated bikes.
Good one mate, hope you do as well in the races.
Series leader, on a Triumph 675 with fairing removed and high bars, was doing pretty consistent 1min,33 secs yesterday in practice.
VIking's qualifying time was 1.34.9.
Viking just qualified 6th out of 21! Remember, this is his first outing against many who are more experienced and have faster, more track orientated bikes.
Good one mate, hope you do as well in the races.
Series leader, on a Triumph 675 with fairing removed and high bars, was doing pretty consistent 1min,33 secs yesterday in practice.
VIking's qualifying time was 1.34.9.
skip
2012-07-28 15:01:00 UTC
Both pics and QP looks good!
Go Viking!
Ever thought about an umbrella girl like this?
Go Viking!
Ever thought about an umbrella girl like this?
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-28 16:08:00 UTC
Races must be done by now. Any word Bic?
Superdan
2012-07-28 16:41:00 UTC
Think 5th in second race?
http://www.sportstimingservices.com/mod ... esults.asp
Not really sure how it works but currently shows him 5th.
http://www.sportstimingservices.com/mod ... esults.asp
Not really sure how it works but currently shows him 5th.
fuel
2012-07-28 16:43:00 UTC
6th in the 1st and 5th in the second.
skip
2012-07-28 16:44:00 UTC
Yep 5th and getting faster as the race went on,maybe a fourth tomorrow????
omky756
2012-07-28 17:30:00 UTC
The bike turned out much better than the PhotoShop version..
Awesome Bic..
Damn good work everyone.!!!!!
Pretty good placings 1st n 2nd races..
I'm stoked.!!!!
Awesome Bic..
Damn good work everyone.!!!!!
Pretty good placings 1st n 2nd races..
I'm stoked.!!!!
Jermo
2012-07-28 17:31:00 UTC
6th and 5th in first race gives hope for several podium finishes
Ducati Pete
2012-07-28 17:58:00 UTC
Good riding Viking!
As far as the bike goes, that looks MUCH better "on the bike" than the photoshop version, which TBH I thought was ghastly - like 2012 Olympic logo nasty. On the real bike it looks much better.
As far as the bike goes, that looks MUCH better "on the bike" than the photoshop version, which TBH I thought was ghastly - like 2012 Olympic logo nasty. On the real bike it looks much better.
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-28 19:54:00 UTC
That's fooking awesome Gordon You have to be happy with those. Good luck tomorrow. Lets hope that stupid wet stuff stays away.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-29 04:39:00 UTC
Got a message from Viking that his lap times were down to 131 by the second race. This is totally on the pace for a podium. but I guess everyone elsenis getting faster also.
Today will come down to the state of his back tyre and whether it rains. Dry day and the tyre might cause issues, I told him to stop being so frugal and get a new tyre but there's none to be found there, tyre guys don't have any. So maybe if it's wet and everyone is out on treaded tyres it's a level playing field again.
We'll see.
Today will come down to the state of his back tyre and whether it rains. Dry day and the tyre might cause issues, I told him to stop being so frugal and get a new tyre but there's none to be found there, tyre guys don't have any. So maybe if it's wet and everyone is out on treaded tyres it's a level playing field again.
We'll see.
nampus
2012-07-29 06:41:00 UTC
Post missing.
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-29 06:58:00 UTC
I hope it doesn't rain as that place is lethal in the wet
KTM666
2012-07-29 10:57:00 UTC
Gordon well done mate......fantastic results
bic_bicknell
2012-07-29 14:37:00 UTC
Started to rain in the first race, track like ice. Low- sided but not bad, broken brake lever is all.
Better luck in the next one mate!
Better luck in the next one mate!
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-29 15:10:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-07-29 15:50:00 UTC
Few photos from Saturday
bic_bicknell
2012-07-29 16:08:00 UTC
That's a great starting picture Russ! Brilliant.
Was it a nice return to the UK? Jet lagged and then blasted with atmosphere and noise. Can't think of a better way to return
Was it a nice return to the UK? Jet lagged and then blasted with atmosphere and noise. Can't think of a better way to return
TLS_Russ
2012-07-29 16:29:00 UTC
Yea was a real buzz and great to meet Gordon, had a great day on Saturday, the man has certainly got some potential
skip
2012-07-29 18:21:00 UTC
Big Well Done to Viking, two 5ths and a 6th which gets him a 4th in class,just got off the phone to him and hes absolutley shattered, the bike got loads of attention thanks to Bic, who,d have thought hed do so well on the first outing??
Colonel_Klinck
2012-07-29 19:36:00 UTC
Brilliant weekend even the little spill then. Well done dude, awesome effort
41KS
2012-07-30 20:19:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-07-30 20:42:00 UTC
It's thick motocross style printed graphics. So whatever that is made of.
Got a full page of work to do and stuff to get before Anglesey so don't have a lot of time. Bike has to be ready in 3weeks and I need to sort out the clutch problem and get out to a private road to sort out the starts so I can get it launched before I kill myself.
Got a full page of work to do and stuff to get before Anglesey so don't have a lot of time. Bike has to be ready in 3weeks and I need to sort out the clutch problem and get out to a private road to sort out the starts so I can get it launched before I kill myself.
Jermo
2012-07-30 21:33:00 UTC
what way have you went with suspension and geo
Viking
2012-07-30 22:50:00 UTC
and when will there be any video material?
Viking
2012-07-31 10:55:00 UTC
Times and stuff here.
The GSXR's are making over 140bhp on dynojet which is 130.5 on the TSGB test dyno which reads low. My bike reads 126bhp on dynojet. So easily 20+bhp down. Add to that a GSXR750 is rated as one of the all time best handling sporsbikes on the planet.
Worth noting that if you look down the grid.
1/ 121 Martin Stanier Suzuki 750 1.30.798 (experienced racer on a GSXR750)
2/ 9 Reece Rothwell Triumph 675 1.31.201 (raced since 05. Did 2 years in Trumph Triple challenge)
3/ 2 Andrew Plaskett Suzuki 750 1.31.717 (experienced racer on a GSXR 750)
4/ 17 Ian Popplewell Triumph 675 1.32.349 (experienced racer)
5/ 12 Michael Russel Suzuki 750 1.32.805 (full carbon GSXR, Bazzaz traction control, thumb brake, and this guy has done a 120mph lap of the TT!!!)
6/ 11 Me Shonky old tractor 1.34.906 (7 year old 10,000mile SD. Aint got a clue what hes doing )
Times are a bit all over the place coz this is anew circuit for everyone. Oncethey get to the local tracks i expect the top to be alot closer and the gap to me to be alot bigger.
The GSXR's are making over 140bhp on dynojet which is 130.5 on the TSGB test dyno which reads low. My bike reads 126bhp on dynojet. So easily 20+bhp down. Add to that a GSXR750 is rated as one of the all time best handling sporsbikes on the planet.
Worth noting that if you look down the grid.
1/ 121 Martin Stanier Suzuki 750 1.30.798 (experienced racer on a GSXR750)
2/ 9 Reece Rothwell Triumph 675 1.31.201 (raced since 05. Did 2 years in Trumph Triple challenge)
3/ 2 Andrew Plaskett Suzuki 750 1.31.717 (experienced racer on a GSXR 750)
4/ 17 Ian Popplewell Triumph 675 1.32.349 (experienced racer)
5/ 12 Michael Russel Suzuki 750 1.32.805 (full carbon GSXR, Bazzaz traction control, thumb brake, and this guy has done a 120mph lap of the TT!!!)
6/ 11 Me Shonky old tractor 1.34.906 (7 year old 10,000mile SD. Aint got a clue what hes doing )
Times are a bit all over the place coz this is anew circuit for everyone. Oncethey get to the local tracks i expect the top to be alot closer and the gap to me to be alot bigger.
Jermo
2012-07-31 11:09:00 UTC
I knew I wasn't the only one that calls my SD a tractor!
Keep up the great work everybody!
Keep up the great work everybody!
Ducati Pete
2012-07-31 12:19:00 UTC
I think the GSXR won that accolade before someone put some bars above the top yolk!
It's a shame that for a naked class, there are so few bikes that are produced as true nakeds.
It's a shame that for a naked class, there are so few bikes that are produced as true nakeds.
Superdan
2012-07-31 12:23:00 UTC
It would be cool if they did an SD cup again, the one in Germany looks very popular.
Seems odd that can put flat bars on a Gixxer 750 and say its now a naked?!
Seems odd that can put flat bars on a Gixxer 750 and say its now a naked?!
Jermo
2012-07-31 12:32:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-07-31 13:56:00 UTC
Gordon am I right in thinking you're running an SD engine with mods rather than an SDR? If so an SDR engine for Summer 2013 would see you a bit closer BHP wise to the GXR750s. Maybe if we could find a crashed SDR or engine it would be a chance to get a bit more of level playing field. I'm certainly no expert but shoving a set of higher bars on a sports bike and then being able to claim it's a naked bike is surely not in the spirit of the race.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-31 16:02:00 UTC
They're doing it that way to get a bigger grid together. I dont see how they need to as there's plenty SD's, SDR's, Tuono's, Street triples, Speed Triples, Ducati Streetfighters etc out there. Thats the way it is so just have to get on with it.
I'm running a 2005 bog standard SD. Only engine mods are a set of Leo Vince end cans, Rottweiler Air box and flies and shafts removed and a PC3 fitted and mapped to suit. Just all the very basics really. Bike had done 9,000 miles when i bought it. I did 1000 road miles then tracked it. So it's maybe on 10,500 now? Dunno.
I'm not going to throw money at it mate. I'd be better just selling it and buying an SDR and working from there if i wanted more power.
It's kinda...........this is the bike i have. So this is what i'm gonna race.
I see what Petes saying. But the higher bars can be compensated for with fork springs and oil height. These things aint standard GSXR750's either. Sitting behind them in the holding area they're all dripping with Ohlins shocks, K tec forks, Brembo monoblocks etc.
I like the bike. Not too fussed about the power as what it has just now is nice to ride.
If i can get it to handle and stop and get my riding up to spec and be inch accurate every lap it can run up there. There's more time to be had in me than adding 20bhp.
The Metzelers seem to like to be ridden on the slide a bit. My riding has leapped forward miles in that one weekend. LIke, i'm easily 50% better than i was on friday moring. By sunday i could feel the tyre start to slide and just hold it just on the move all the way out the corner. Talking to alot of the guys....say on a scale of sliding 100% is a complete hightside and 0% is the tyre starting to move. The Metzelers need to work in that slidey zone, say 20-60% on that scale. I was taking the tyre to 5% and thinking it was at 95%. Wrong. This is the tyre starting get into the sweet zone where it should be like that every single corner. Now i've felt it lap after lap after lap it's now normal so i know where it needs to be.
You'll hear it in the engine in the vids. In about 6 weeks the full 30min I Player show will be out and show bothfll sunday races more indepth so thet'll be the best one to watch rather than the Motors TV 15min highlight skim over.
I'm running a 2005 bog standard SD. Only engine mods are a set of Leo Vince end cans, Rottweiler Air box and flies and shafts removed and a PC3 fitted and mapped to suit. Just all the very basics really. Bike had done 9,000 miles when i bought it. I did 1000 road miles then tracked it. So it's maybe on 10,500 now? Dunno.
I'm not going to throw money at it mate. I'd be better just selling it and buying an SDR and working from there if i wanted more power.
It's kinda...........this is the bike i have. So this is what i'm gonna race.
I see what Petes saying. But the higher bars can be compensated for with fork springs and oil height. These things aint standard GSXR750's either. Sitting behind them in the holding area they're all dripping with Ohlins shocks, K tec forks, Brembo monoblocks etc.
I like the bike. Not too fussed about the power as what it has just now is nice to ride.
If i can get it to handle and stop and get my riding up to spec and be inch accurate every lap it can run up there. There's more time to be had in me than adding 20bhp.
The Metzelers seem to like to be ridden on the slide a bit. My riding has leapped forward miles in that one weekend. LIke, i'm easily 50% better than i was on friday moring. By sunday i could feel the tyre start to slide and just hold it just on the move all the way out the corner. Talking to alot of the guys....say on a scale of sliding 100% is a complete hightside and 0% is the tyre starting to move. The Metzelers need to work in that slidey zone, say 20-60% on that scale. I was taking the tyre to 5% and thinking it was at 95%. Wrong. This is the tyre starting get into the sweet zone where it should be like that every single corner. Now i've felt it lap after lap after lap it's now normal so i know where it needs to be.
You'll hear it in the engine in the vids. In about 6 weeks the full 30min I Player show will be out and show bothfll sunday races more indepth so thet'll be the best one to watch rather than the Motors TV 15min highlight skim over.
Viking
2012-07-31 17:10:00 UTC
So, finally got to find time at the studio to collect together a design team and my design director to review our first attempt at applying the new echo branding to vIkings bike. On the whole it worked out OK given the pressure we were under last week to turn it around. We also had to go on a learning curve about the vinyl production process and having to set up a reliable dialogue with L&Rdesigns so we could discuss things like time lines and processes.
But now we have the luxury of a couple of weeks to get the next design sorted. Spent most of Friday measuring up Viking's panels that haven't been exploited in the past by most Superduke owners. There's, I would guess, about twice as much real estate to play with than we originally had.
This time it 's going to be much better and have more impact and standout. We're also going to do his helmet and some sort of large banner designs to make hisnhome more welcome when he comes in from the track!
If any forum members know of a good place that can produce these large banner type things let me know. Not sure if L&M do them, if not we need another supplier sorted out quickly. It 's another place that we 'd be willing to put a Superduke.net logo.
ONe thing that I noticed was that the pucker teams, and a lot of the independent guys too, have very branded look gazebos, bikes, kit etc. It really makes them look more serious and professional. I think Vikings bike got a lot of attention, ( which obviously I l am happy with) but there's more to it than that. People take notice of things. If there was an interest from a bigger sponsor, or if there was someone walking about like a talent spotter then more likely to be intrigued by Viking if he 's well presented and looks like others are already interested in him already. There's loads of guys there who just enjoy racing but their bikes and their set up look shabby and amateur. Seriously, there's bikes there held together with gaffer tape and barely make it through scrutineering. I, personally wouldn't sponsor someone like that, no way. It's a reflection of what they are as a person and what I'd have to deal with every day.
If we get Viking looking good, then it will have an effect of how he is perceived by the rest of the paddock, by the race organisers, by potential big money backers, by everyone. maybe even himself? Everything helps in this game I believe. He already had talked with the race organisers at Rockingham and got a tips about how to get more exposure on camera and how to increase the chances of race commentators mentioning Echo. He's a likeable guy and he can make an impact where ever he gets a chance. The more I con do to help him with this them better.
Racers like him. I could tell. They come talk to him and stay and chat. They find him later and carry on the conversation.
This is such an exciting project for me. I don't have time for it, it's summer and many of my team are on holiday including two of my business partners. I have to get up at 4 in the morning to fit this Viking stuff in.
But you know what? I don't mind cos it's a pleasure.
But now we have the luxury of a couple of weeks to get the next design sorted. Spent most of Friday measuring up Viking's panels that haven't been exploited in the past by most Superduke owners. There's, I would guess, about twice as much real estate to play with than we originally had.
This time it 's going to be much better and have more impact and standout. We're also going to do his helmet and some sort of large banner designs to make hisnhome more welcome when he comes in from the track!
If any forum members know of a good place that can produce these large banner type things let me know. Not sure if L&M do them, if not we need another supplier sorted out quickly. It 's another place that we 'd be willing to put a Superduke.net logo.
ONe thing that I noticed was that the pucker teams, and a lot of the independent guys too, have very branded look gazebos, bikes, kit etc. It really makes them look more serious and professional. I think Vikings bike got a lot of attention, ( which obviously I l am happy with) but there's more to it than that. People take notice of things. If there was an interest from a bigger sponsor, or if there was someone walking about like a talent spotter then more likely to be intrigued by Viking if he 's well presented and looks like others are already interested in him already. There's loads of guys there who just enjoy racing but their bikes and their set up look shabby and amateur. Seriously, there's bikes there held together with gaffer tape and barely make it through scrutineering. I, personally wouldn't sponsor someone like that, no way. It's a reflection of what they are as a person and what I'd have to deal with every day.
If we get Viking looking good, then it will have an effect of how he is perceived by the rest of the paddock, by the race organisers, by potential big money backers, by everyone. maybe even himself? Everything helps in this game I believe. He already had talked with the race organisers at Rockingham and got a tips about how to get more exposure on camera and how to increase the chances of race commentators mentioning Echo. He's a likeable guy and he can make an impact where ever he gets a chance. The more I con do to help him with this them better.
Racers like him. I could tell. They come talk to him and stay and chat. They find him later and carry on the conversation.
This is such an exciting project for me. I don't have time for it, it's summer and many of my team are on holiday including two of my business partners. I have to get up at 4 in the morning to fit this Viking stuff in.
But you know what? I don't mind cos it's a pleasure.
Ducati Pete
2012-07-31 20:05:00 UTC
Race 2 of the weekend will be up in about 3-4 hours all going well with my internet connection.
bic_bicknell
2012-07-31 21:12:00 UTC
Post missing.
Jermo
2012-08-01 03:35:00 UTC
Hey Pete.
Well no. I have no experience with any kind or racing.
But I have 30 plus years of riding bikes with all sorts of different kind of people, from cafe racers to hardcore greasy bikers. And in all these different groups of people there is another kind of split, the ones that have mechanical sympathy, and care for their bikes, and the ones that don't.
I totally get what you're saying about budgets and priorities. But if someone can't be bothered to to repair something well or not clean something on the outside as part of preparation for a race, then I wouldn't trust what was going on on the inside of the bike either. It's a state of mind as much as a physical thing in my opinion. It's like if you went into a bike workshop and there was tools and muck lying around on the floor and piles of rubbish and cups full of cold tea spilt everywhere. Or go into somewhere and it's all ordered, (not necessarily new and shiny), and and there's a feeling of karma. I know where I'd rather go for advice and chats about motorbikes.
I don't even like riding with people who's bikes look like they're falling apart. Most of the time they ride like this too.
It's only my opinion but what you project from the outside is often reflected on the inside.
Well no. I have no experience with any kind or racing.
But I have 30 plus years of riding bikes with all sorts of different kind of people, from cafe racers to hardcore greasy bikers. And in all these different groups of people there is another kind of split, the ones that have mechanical sympathy, and care for their bikes, and the ones that don't.
I totally get what you're saying about budgets and priorities. But if someone can't be bothered to to repair something well or not clean something on the outside as part of preparation for a race, then I wouldn't trust what was going on on the inside of the bike either. It's a state of mind as much as a physical thing in my opinion. It's like if you went into a bike workshop and there was tools and muck lying around on the floor and piles of rubbish and cups full of cold tea spilt everywhere. Or go into somewhere and it's all ordered, (not necessarily new and shiny), and and there's a feeling of karma. I know where I'd rather go for advice and chats about motorbikes.
I don't even like riding with people who's bikes look like they're falling apart. Most of the time they ride like this too.
It's only my opinion but what you project from the outside is often reflected on the inside.
Colonel_Klinck
2012-08-01 06:08:00 UTC
Nice video Gordon, I like the cam position to see the suspension working.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-01 06:48:00 UTC
Post missing.
nampus
2012-08-01 07:37:00 UTC
)
Anyway, I'm not into polishing, waxing, shining, dusting, bikes anymore. That's why I like the matt black SD look, nothing to shine up anyway. I don't have time. I just wash 'em with soapy water and a scrubbing brush then liberally spray them with ACF 50, then wipe off the residue with a cloth.
I used to have a Triumph and the alloy engine casings took about three hours of Solvol Autosol to make it gleam. I did this every Sunday morning for years. Did it to my Kawasaki triples too, the alloys were still OK in those days too and came up a treat.
Bikes go faster and look after you better when they're clean and polished and have a good karma. ( I like to think)
Anyway, I'm not into polishing, waxing, shining, dusting, bikes anymore. That's why I like the matt black SD look, nothing to shine up anyway. I don't have time. I just wash 'em with soapy water and a scrubbing brush then liberally spray them with ACF 50, then wipe off the residue with a cloth.
I used to have a Triumph and the alloy engine casings took about three hours of Solvol Autosol to make it gleam. I did this every Sunday morning for years. Did it to my Kawasaki triples too, the alloys were still OK in those days too and came up a treat.
Bikes go faster and look after you better when they're clean and polished and have a good karma. ( I like to think)
stalker
2012-08-01 14:17:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-08-02 20:42:00 UTC
nope . treat them mean and all that
Viking
2012-08-13 08:58:00 UTC
Race 4 will be on Motors TV this thursday at 11pm.
Lets hope it we get a mention out there on ole' tractor power
Lets hope it we get a mention out there on ole' tractor power
Colonel_Klinck
2012-08-13 09:28:00 UTC
Here is race 4 which is the one they will show on TV.
I uploaded the full thing from holding bay to chequred flag. The feeling cruizing up to the line and seeing the grid girls waiting is unreal. What a buzz!! Watch the number 17 bike on the right showboat off the line n the warmup lap.
Up the quality to 1080.
I uploaded the full thing from holding bay to chequred flag. The feeling cruizing up to the line and seeing the grid girls waiting is unreal. What a buzz!! Watch the number 17 bike on the right showboat off the line n the warmup lap.
Up the quality to 1080.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-13 13:46:00 UTC
Nice vid dude Personally I think they'd be better off with National track but maybe as this doesn't have a grid they can't use it. Much nicer circuit to ride than the International.
nampus
2012-08-13 19:54:00 UTC
So, we're now half way through the month between Rockingham and Anglesey.
Been a hectic few weeks trying to get the new Echo graphics designed for the bike and all the other things that we would have done for the first weekend but didn't have time.
Getting the design and artwork finalised for production in vinyl so we can get it to Viking for friday to put on the bike. Doing a design for two banners and getting them made for his gazebo. Bought a new Bell helmet delivered to Echo so we can apply the design to that. Had an internal competition to design him a personal logo to put on the bike and bring him good luck. He's chosen a design out of six options and that's in development. Had to redraw the Jim Aims Racing artwork because they didn't have one which we could use and also we didn't much like the logo of Boogies bike paint so we designed them a new corporate identity so their logo looks good on the bike. They've just approved that so we're in business.
New design has much more standout but as a result is gaudier - Gordon has reservations but he will be won over when it's all applied. (Have faith Gordon!
Been a hectic few weeks trying to get the new Echo graphics designed for the bike and all the other things that we would have done for the first weekend but didn't have time.
Getting the design and artwork finalised for production in vinyl so we can get it to Viking for friday to put on the bike. Doing a design for two banners and getting them made for his gazebo. Bought a new Bell helmet delivered to Echo so we can apply the design to that. Had an internal competition to design him a personal logo to put on the bike and bring him good luck. He's chosen a design out of six options and that's in development. Had to redraw the Jim Aims Racing artwork because they didn't have one which we could use and also we didn't much like the logo of Boogies bike paint so we designed them a new corporate identity so their logo looks good on the bike. They've just approved that so we're in business.
New design has much more standout but as a result is gaudier - Gordon has reservations but he will be won over when it's all applied. (Have faith Gordon!
Viking
2012-08-13 20:38:00 UTC
Nice video Gordon! I'll keep an eye on the iplayer from thundersportgb for their video. Motorstv will broadcast the rockingham event in Holland @ 2 am on a friday. Alarm is set @6am for work, so not really an option to watch it on tv. Luckily there is YouTube!
@bic: really looking forward to see the design! Sounds like you guys are really working your *ss off to help Gordon, great stuff!
@bic: really looking forward to see the design! Sounds like you guys are really working your *ss off to help Gordon, great stuff!
bic_bicknell
2012-08-13 21:34:00 UTC
The I Player is a bit behind. They've only just uploaded the Snetterton race. I think it'll be mid september before its on. Plus point is they show both races on it so you'l see me sliding along on my ass and trying to be all cool by blaming the marshals for me crashing coz they didnt have the slippery flag out when the the track was wet......even though it was pissing down.
Honestly cant wait to see it all done in real life. Boogies are staying open late to fit them when i finish shift so we'll be down there fitting them up at 11pm onwards one night.
Honestly cant wait to see it all done in real life. Boogies are staying open late to fit them when i finish shift so we'll be down there fitting them up at 11pm onwards one night.
Crotchrockety
2012-08-15 19:45:00 UTC
OK. Here's the first unveiling to the world (ha ha....like the world cares much), of the new, updated Echo/Viking racing livery.
We learned a lot from the first, rushed attempt. Mostly about standout and how you really need to be bright to be noticed. Viking is still probably in shock and getting used to the concept of not being a shrinking violet. Mate, you just have to accept that if you're focus is riding to win and making an impact on the series all we can do is help you along the way!!
We learned a lot from the first, rushed attempt. Mostly about standout and how you really need to be bright to be noticed. Viking is still probably in shock and getting used to the concept of not being a shrinking violet. Mate, you just have to accept that if you're focus is riding to win and making an impact on the series all we can do is help you along the way!!
Superdan
2012-08-15 20:01:00 UTC
My eyes, my eyes, I'm blind. Please God, tell me you didn't do that to that poor SD.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-15 20:13:00 UTC
See...
You motorcyclists are such a conservative bunch at heart. You don't like things to be different or challenging do you?
Big Ash will like it.
You motorcyclists are such a conservative bunch at heart. You don't like things to be different or challenging do you?
Big Ash will like it.
Ducati Pete
2012-08-15 20:43:00 UTC
I like it!
The first one was a elaborate Joke.
The first one was a elaborate Joke.
Mr_Trecolareco
2012-08-15 20:46:00 UTC
Yes, like they said: be noticed. All publicity is good publicity
Go for it viking
Go for it viking
nampus
2012-08-15 20:56:00 UTC
I like it too, and it will definetely get you noticed, and people will probably remember you! And that's the main goal of the design i presume.
Colonel_Klinck
2012-08-15 21:00:00 UTC
I think I will be able to see him from London
bic_bicknell
2012-08-15 21:20:00 UTC
"Flash Gordon and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamboat on podium"
That's the headline in next months Thundersport review. You read it here first.
That's the headline in next months Thundersport review. You read it here first.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-16 05:28:00 UTC
Ahhh, he's just posted this lovely picture of his immaculately prepped bike. He's loving the black, minimalist look! (As I personally do too).
Only a few more days mate and it will be a bit more colourful!!!
Only a few more days mate and it will be a bit more colourful!!!
Linga
2012-08-16 05:43:00 UTC
I prefer your second generation and think it flows more than the original.
I really like the multicoloured waves on the banner in the background
I really like the multicoloured waves on the banner in the background
fuel
2012-08-16 07:17:00 UTC
You'll need some new leathers to go with that.
No. 47
2012-08-16 10:35:00 UTC
A whole new meaning to the Gay Gordon's.................................
Superdan
2012-08-16 11:34:00 UTC
There must be a less visually horrific way to attract attention surely?
I have attempted to acclimatise by staring at the mock ups and trying to convince myself that it's just my innate conservatism that is causing me to dislike it.
Unfortunately I have come to the conclusion that the reason I don't like it is that the design has taken the colour palette from Willy Wonka's chocolate factory and married it to the bold geometric patterns of the classic shell suit circa 1992.
If you just want to attract attention though, mission accomplished!
I have attempted to acclimatise by staring at the mock ups and trying to convince myself that it's just my innate conservatism that is causing me to dislike it.
Unfortunately I have come to the conclusion that the reason I don't like it is that the design has taken the colour palette from Willy Wonka's chocolate factory and married it to the bold geometric patterns of the classic shell suit circa 1992.
If you just want to attract attention though, mission accomplished!
bic_bicknell
2012-08-16 11:40:00 UTC
This is a good focus group.
Millar
2012-08-16 12:00:00 UTC
Yep. Focus group indeed.
That's why we usually ignore much of what focus groups advocate and convince the client that they should be brave, and innovative and not listen to the voice of the masses. If we did listen to them nothing would every change and nothing different would every get created.
It's only when things are successful and begin to achieve what they intended to do, and then suddenly the masses say, 'Oh I like this", or , "That's soooo cool".
I've got thick skin, I know when a design, whether its a bottle of whisky or a mobile phone, is good, and whether it will deliver on it's objectives and appeal to the person it was intended. And this bike is good, it's just what Echo wanted it to be. We have an agenda.
Anyway, in this case we're the client .........so we're right.
That's why we usually ignore much of what focus groups advocate and convince the client that they should be brave, and innovative and not listen to the voice of the masses. If we did listen to them nothing would every change and nothing different would every get created.
It's only when things are successful and begin to achieve what they intended to do, and then suddenly the masses say, 'Oh I like this", or , "That's soooo cool".
I've got thick skin, I know when a design, whether its a bottle of whisky or a mobile phone, is good, and whether it will deliver on it's objectives and appeal to the person it was intended. And this bike is good, it's just what Echo wanted it to be. We have an agenda.
Anyway, in this case we're the client .........so we're right.
Superdan
2012-08-16 12:50:00 UTC
Post missing.
Stupid Luke
2012-08-16 19:06:00 UTC
Post missing.
No. 47
2012-08-16 20:43:00 UTC
Viking hasn't commented, is he still in shock.......
Ducati Pete
2012-08-16 20:58:00 UTC
Post missing.
Ducati Pete
2012-08-16 22:29:00 UTC
Post missing.
Stupid Luke
2012-08-16 22:37:00 UTC
Just watched the Rockingham race on Motors TV - good on ya, Gordon, particularly as the result listing put you on a KTM 690............who the hell are Echo?
Ducati Pete
2012-08-16 22:52:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-16 22:55:00 UTC
Post missing.
omky756
2012-08-16 23:20:00 UTC
Maybe we are viewing this from the wrong perspective.? Perhaps Vikings bike isnt meant to be a showcase of Echo's skills but a warning to other manufacturers... ' KTM wouldnt pay our design fees so see how ugly we made their product". We could do the same for you if you dont pay up
bic_bicknell
2012-08-17 05:56:00 UTC
For anyone that actually wants them..... (really?)
We have the cutter guides and artwork for all the panels on the SD. There are loads more than the usual panels done by SD owners because we wanted to cover the bike.
I will post up a comprehensive set of everything. If there is enough interest we can easily put in a new order to get more vinyl produced and we would be prepared to do this at cost plus postage. I'd have to find out from LRdesign what the price would be for limited panels etc.
Just be aware that all the panels are for an '06 model SD. There's some crossover with the'07 onwards but not in the tank area.
We have the cutter guides and artwork for all the panels on the SD. There are loads more than the usual panels done by SD owners because we wanted to cover the bike.
I will post up a comprehensive set of everything. If there is enough interest we can easily put in a new order to get more vinyl produced and we would be prepared to do this at cost plus postage. I'd have to find out from LRdesign what the price would be for limited panels etc.
Just be aware that all the panels are for an '06 model SD. There's some crossover with the'07 onwards but not in the tank area.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-17 06:04:00 UTC
Here's Gordon's personal logo/mascot to go on the back mudguard.
It features his greyhound, Mist, and the number 11.
It features his greyhound, Mist, and the number 11.
Viking
2012-08-17 10:59:00 UTC
Not been on here much.
Had a quick skim over the last few posts here
Had a quick skim over the last few posts here
nampus
2012-08-17 13:24:00 UTC
Awesome looking bike Gordon!
Viking
2012-08-17 13:29:00 UTC
41KS
2012-08-17 15:15:00 UTC
Sad it's for track use only. The bike is sure-score chick-magnet.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-17 16:56:00 UTC
Looks great Gordon! I 'm well happy with the way it seems to have worked on the real bike. I can spot what appear to be a few errors, don't know if they are the fault of the artwork or L&R, will only be able to check on Monday now. we can get a few new panels made next week if we feel it necessary. The one that bugs me the most is the right hand side tail unit, the panel below the number board should not be White, it should be coloured stripes.
How did the panels fit? Was ther a lot of post finishing to do? I hope not but it might be expected as we did not have a bike to trial them on. Belly an should have turned out better as we had this.
I 'll try and ring you from the field on my way home tonight.
How did the panels fit? Was ther a lot of post finishing to do? I hope not but it might be expected as we did not have a bike to trial them on. Belly an should have turned out better as we had this.
I 'll try and ring you from the field on my way home tonight.
Ducati Pete
2012-08-17 18:27:00 UTC
I Like the left hand side!
Jermo
2012-08-17 18:41:00 UTC
I absolutely love the new design you have there Flash, that will get you noticed!
Only downside is it might be hard to spot the other sponsor logo's on the hectic design (I can't find them).
Only downside is it might be hard to spot the other sponsor logo's on the hectic design (I can't find them).
Viking
2012-08-17 21:33:00 UTC
Post missing.
paul81
2012-08-18 10:11:00 UTC
i prefer the right side too but my favourite graphic is your rear hugger
the rockingham vidoe isn't up yet or am i being blonde??
the rockingham vidoe isn't up yet or am i being blonde??
KTM666
2012-08-18 10:13:00 UTC
looks great....I like the left best
....Flash........I think its more to do With Cadwell Park Toilets......around about midnight
....Flash........I think its more to do With Cadwell Park Toilets......around about midnight
Viking
2012-08-18 11:29:00 UTC
Post missing.
Ducati Pete
2012-08-18 15:02:00 UTC
The left side is really growing on me but i'm not feeling the love for the right
Jermo
2012-08-18 19:24:00 UTC
My Aunt has retired greyhounds - they rock!
bic_bicknell
2012-08-18 22:27:00 UTC
Is it me or is the greyhound looking slightly sad?
41KS
2012-08-19 06:30:00 UTC
Mascot vinyl will be on it's way next week Gordon! I've added it onto the order for the helmet graphics.
Viking
2012-08-19 09:51:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-08-19 13:35:00 UTC
I was looking through Servimg there to post some pics of Mist and saw these old ones.
Then we're where we are now. Looking at the 1st pic it's hard to believe under all the vinyl it still basically a 10,000mile 7 year old roadbike!
Then we're where we are now. Looking at the 1st pic it's hard to believe under all the vinyl it still basically a 10,000mile 7 year old roadbike!
Bert
2012-08-19 13:38:00 UTC
We're nearly a year on here. Early hours of tuesday morning is the 1 year anniversay of my fathers death..........and almost exactly 1 year later i'm racing top 5 in a national championship as a sponsored rider. What a year! I aint religous in any way man, but come on. What are the chances of that coming together at this point. Bic getting the final design done etc.
Gets even spookier. Next Sunday, 26th August, is the anniversary of the funeral. It was at 12.30pm i stood there and his song came on and the coffin came by with his cap and boots ontop. 12.30 on Sunday is when my 1st race of the weekend in on the grid! 365 days later and it all lined up to happen at the exact same minute! How can that even be possible.
I'm either gonna be a total freakin wreak or im gonna win.
Gets even spookier. Next Sunday, 26th August, is the anniversary of the funeral. It was at 12.30pm i stood there and his song came on and the coffin came by with his cap and boots ontop. 12.30 on Sunday is when my 1st race of the weekend in on the grid! 365 days later and it all lined up to happen at the exact same minute! How can that even be possible.
I'm either gonna be a total freakin wreak or im gonna win.
tigerstyletroy
2012-08-19 17:33:00 UTC
Best of luck to you mate!
The Gin Reaper
2012-08-19 18:01:00 UTC
a date with destiny!
Jermo
2012-08-19 19:17:00 UTC
Gordon
All the best for the 26th mate - its going to be a great weekend - the duchess and I get married on the saturday and your gonna get a podium on the sunday..... what could be better!
best of luck
The Gin Reaper
All the best for the 26th mate - its going to be a great weekend - the duchess and I get married on the saturday and your gonna get a podium on the sunday..... what could be better!
best of luck
The Gin Reaper
Viking
2012-08-19 19:43:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-08-20 13:13:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-22 03:53:00 UTC
In the final week before Anglesey we have finalised the artwork for Gordon's mascot and done him a big sheet full of different sizes stickers so he can plaster them all over the walls of his house.
Printed it on vinyl so it can go somewhere unobtrusively on the bike.
We've bought him a new Bell helmet and applied the same lairy graphics all over it. The same twin-sided design but with the harlequin on the right and the stripes on the left.
Printed some spare tank and bellypan vinyl panels so, (although I'm worried it's tempting fate), if he low-sides then he can go out looking as good as new again.
Reprinted the right hand panels of the SDR tail unit because L&R made a mistake and missed off some pink and yellow stripes, (and we can't have that can we?
GOOD LUCK GORDON. Hope everything goes well. If it was all just down to preparation and mental attitude then you'd be starting on pole and win all races by a good measure!
Printed it on vinyl so it can go somewhere unobtrusively on the bike.
We've bought him a new Bell helmet and applied the same lairy graphics all over it. The same twin-sided design but with the harlequin on the right and the stripes on the left.
Printed some spare tank and bellypan vinyl panels so, (although I'm worried it's tempting fate), if he low-sides then he can go out looking as good as new again.
Reprinted the right hand panels of the SDR tail unit because L&R made a mistake and missed off some pink and yellow stripes, (and we can't have that can we?
GOOD LUCK GORDON. Hope everything goes well. If it was all just down to preparation and mental attitude then you'd be starting on pole and win all races by a good measure!
bic_bicknell
2012-08-23 21:46:00 UTC
Finally finished everything and the package is ready to send up to Anglesey for Viking.
Here's the whole Echo team that worked on the project. Thankyou to all of them for their offers of help, hard work and a not a few late nights fitted in around their own totally mental work schedules.
At the back left is Greg, the artworker who did all the layouts and specs to send to L&Rdesigns. Then there's Ben who did a lot of the conceptual work and next to him is Ash, our design director who's overseen the design and implementation of our new identity,(For which he can be thanked for), throughout the whole project, then Niall who submitted one of the dog mascot design concepts, (Vilking's second choice). In the middle row, in the blue jacket, is "G" the designer responsible for the lairy second generation bike graphics, next to him is Bronnie, who's project managed the whole affair and co-ordinated everything to run smoothly and then Philip who did all the layouts and panel work to get the new design to fit onto the belly-pan and helmet. Then there's Christie, one of senior senior designers, who produced the beautiful winning mascot design. Front row is James, a mascot submitter and myself, looking pretty happy with the way things turned out.
Here's the whole Echo team that worked on the project. Thankyou to all of them for their offers of help, hard work and a not a few late nights fitted in around their own totally mental work schedules.
At the back left is Greg, the artworker who did all the layouts and specs to send to L&Rdesigns. Then there's Ben who did a lot of the conceptual work and next to him is Ash, our design director who's overseen the design and implementation of our new identity,(For which he can be thanked for), throughout the whole project, then Niall who submitted one of the dog mascot design concepts, (Vilking's second choice). In the middle row, in the blue jacket, is "G" the designer responsible for the lairy second generation bike graphics, next to him is Bronnie, who's project managed the whole affair and co-ordinated everything to run smoothly and then Philip who did all the layouts and panel work to get the new design to fit onto the belly-pan and helmet. Then there's Christie, one of senior senior designers, who produced the beautiful winning mascot design. Front row is James, a mascot submitter and myself, looking pretty happy with the way things turned out.
bic_bicknell
2012-08-25 03:47:00 UTC
Here's the helmet design to go with the bike.
Jermo
2012-08-25 04:56:00 UTC
Nice work from all of you, really stands out of the crowd with that design. Will the leathers have the reversed design like the helmet has as well?
bic_bicknell
2012-08-25 06:37:00 UTC
No leathers this time round! Maybe just a step too far for us in terms of cost and execution. Anyway, Viking has to wear an orange novice bib this season so the impact would not be as good. Hopefully all this lot will be enough to get noticed on TV an the like.
ktmguy
2012-08-25 10:54:00 UTC
Nice going! Congrats all round!
bic_bicknell
2012-08-26 03:30:00 UTC
Third in Saturday's practice.
omky756
2012-08-26 06:28:00 UTC
Good job.!!!
Good luck Gordon!!!
Good luck Gordon!!!
nampus
2012-08-26 08:21:00 UTC
Very impressive! Hope the race goes just as well or even better!
Ducati Pete
2012-08-26 11:18:00 UTC
Good stuff mate. Remember the established rules should you get a result.
The first paragraph should include a confession that you don't like talking / writing about yourself.
Minimum of of 1000 words to follow!
Stay Focused!
The first paragraph should include a confession that you don't like talking / writing about yourself.
Minimum of of 1000 words to follow!
Stay Focused!
bic_bicknell
2012-08-26 13:05:00 UTC
Viking got a podium in first race!!!
Superdan
2012-08-26 13:55:00 UTC
Well done Gordon.
Although I prefer Gordon "gaudy" Wright to flash
Although I prefer Gordon "gaudy" Wright to flash
CEREC1
2012-08-26 14:13:00 UTC
That's brilliant. Big credit to Bic and Echo.
Jermo
2012-08-26 14:36:00 UTC
Great news and result! Extra attention from the commentator is the best.
tigerstyletroy
2012-08-26 15:07:00 UTC
i dont think i quite understand the street-fighter classification. What needs to be done to the 600's 750's and 675's to make it eligible for this race group?
also is there any way i can watch the races online or on TV? i dont have any special cable package but im dying to see you race!
also is there any way i can watch the races online or on TV? i dont have any special cable package but im dying to see you race!
nampus
2012-08-26 15:45:00 UTC
Awesome result guys! Congratulations!
Colonel_Klinck
2012-08-26 18:25:00 UTC
Well done dude!
nampus
2012-08-26 19:01:00 UTC
How was race 2?
bic_bicknell
2012-08-26 19:17:00 UTC
Waiting to hear...........
omky756
2012-08-27 05:37:00 UTC
Still waiting for race 2 results .!!!!!
Damn gents....
Tell us.!!
:
Damn gents....
Tell us.!!
:
KTM666
2012-08-27 05:49:00 UTC
Class Gordon......real Class well done......
bic_bicknell
2012-08-27 15:44:00 UTC
In race 2 Viking got a false neutral instead of second gear and went straight back to 15th before the first corner. Then battled his way through the traffic for the rest of the race to finish a credible fifth.
Unfortunately the whole of Monday's event was cancelled due to bad weather so no grid start and no brolly dollies and no race to try and win. Bummer
Unfortunately the whole of Monday's event was cancelled due to bad weather so no grid start and no brolly dollies and no race to try and win. Bummer
SDNerd
2012-08-27 16:47:00 UTC
Seriously, this is all great - love the crazy-ass graphics.
More importantly however, where are the scantily clad umbrella girl pics from the event?
More importantly however, where are the scantily clad umbrella girl pics from the event?
drswade
2012-08-27 18:00:00 UTC
Just got off a long chat on the phone with Viking.
Scotland (Escocia) to Mexico to talk with a Yank. Cool huh?
He won't ask for it but he requires/needs a KTM/Suter clutch. If anyone has a new or good one he can have or buy on the cheap, please let him know.
He doesn't need a bunch of PMs telling him how great another clutch is or how he doesn't need one. He just needs one.
Track days aren't racing and until you have had to fight a clutch on the grid, it is hard knowing what he is going through.
Apologies to Viking and his team if I am speaking out of turn but there it is anyway.
Maybe GoGo will give him one.
Scotland (Escocia) to Mexico to talk with a Yank. Cool huh?
He won't ask for it but he requires/needs a KTM/Suter clutch. If anyone has a new or good one he can have or buy on the cheap, please let him know.
He doesn't need a bunch of PMs telling him how great another clutch is or how he doesn't need one. He just needs one.
Track days aren't racing and until you have had to fight a clutch on the grid, it is hard knowing what he is going through.
Apologies to Viking and his team if I am speaking out of turn but there it is anyway.
Maybe GoGo will give him one.
skip
2012-08-27 18:34:00 UTC
I Dont think you are speaking out of turn, he phoned on his way home and the conversation seemed to center round cluth issues especially getting of the line,so if anyones thinking of selling theres give him a pm.
Ducati Pete
2012-08-27 18:42:00 UTC
Get on it Bic!
Colonel_Klinck
2012-08-27 19:46:00 UTC
Post missing.
CEREC1
2012-08-27 19:58:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-08-27 19:58:00 UTC
The only lycra clad wench pic i got.........thats me on the right btw
I'll post up in 10mins. Missed out on some great pics coz of today being cancelled. I would have been 2nd on the grid for both races due to me setting the 2nd fastest time of the event up till then. The front row get a grid girl with a brolly and the TV cam goes down the line showing close up of the bikes and i get to give the cam a wee wave......but.....all that is now gone coz of the Uk weather.
I'll post up in 10mins. Missed out on some great pics coz of today being cancelled. I would have been 2nd on the grid for both races due to me setting the 2nd fastest time of the event up till then. The front row get a grid girl with a brolly and the TV cam goes down the line showing close up of the bikes and i get to give the cam a wee wave......but.....all that is now gone coz of the Uk weather.
Viking
2012-08-27 20:21:00 UTC
Post missing.
CEREC1
2012-08-27 20:29:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-08-27 22:15:00 UTC
Cheers Rob. It was good to throw a few ideas about with you.
I've managed to get a deal on an STM. That should hopefully sort out my issues. These is no point in getting on the front row to then end up 8th by turn one. It looks the same as the Suter. I think i have to change from spring type to diaphram to sort this crap out.
Anyway.................race reports............especially for you DP x x
Testing was shite. Damp, then rained, then red flagged so got 8 laps over 3 sessions. I've never done the Coastal layout so was keen to get some laps in. Ive done one day there but i was in inters group and it was my 1st trackday this year after the big crash and 6month off the bike. So learned bugger all and as piss slow.
New rear tyre on for qually which was on the friday due to the big Anglesey Super Prix races. Got out mid pack and took my time scrubbing the tyre in and trying to get some space and rythym. I knew the lap record was set at 1.12.341 so set a personal goal of a sub 1.15. Saw a 1.17 on the lap timer. Got some clear track finally and got a committed lap in only to get to the entry to the corkscrew to find a guy cruising along so had to go round outside of him and lost time. Came in pissed off and Curtis ran over and told me i'd got 3rd.
Cheers to Russ for driving 5hours across counrty to listen to me rant and then have day two cancelled. Hopefully he'll have some good pics of the rage filled race two.
I've managed to get a deal on an STM. That should hopefully sort out my issues. These is no point in getting on the front row to then end up 8th by turn one. It looks the same as the Suter. I think i have to change from spring type to diaphram to sort this crap out.
Anyway.................race reports............especially for you DP x x
Testing was shite. Damp, then rained, then red flagged so got 8 laps over 3 sessions. I've never done the Coastal layout so was keen to get some laps in. Ive done one day there but i was in inters group and it was my 1st trackday this year after the big crash and 6month off the bike. So learned bugger all and as piss slow.
New rear tyre on for qually which was on the friday due to the big Anglesey Super Prix races. Got out mid pack and took my time scrubbing the tyre in and trying to get some space and rythym. I knew the lap record was set at 1.12.341 so set a personal goal of a sub 1.15. Saw a 1.17 on the lap timer. Got some clear track finally and got a committed lap in only to get to the entry to the corkscrew to find a guy cruising along so had to go round outside of him and lost time. Came in pissed off and Curtis ran over and told me i'd got 3rd.
Cheers to Russ for driving 5hours across counrty to listen to me rant and then have day two cancelled. Hopefully he'll have some good pics of the rage filled race two.
omky756
2012-08-27 23:40:00 UTC
Good job Gordon.!!!
Looking forward to the videos...
Looking forward to the videos...
Jermo
2012-08-28 00:32:00 UTC
Nice write-up Flash, looking forward to especially the 2nd race with all the passes
nampus
2012-08-28 17:45:00 UTC
Gordon, well done!
Viking
2012-08-28 18:07:00 UTC
Great job! Considering you entered the 1st corner @ 14th position, finishing 5th is a very good result! Shame the monday races got cancelled!
weeksy
2012-08-29 07:26:00 UTC
Race 1 will be up in a few hours. It'll be a few days before i get the nightmare of race 2 up.
I've left it full length to show the full experience from pit to pit. Just skip it forward to the race if you cant be bothered watching it.
I can see my biggest problem is being inconsistant with lines etc. Reece is perfect every lap. My pace isnt far away and if i can hit every apex perfectly over the full race the overall race time will come down and i'll place higher. It's something i know it have to work on and ive got steps in place to sort it. I find its real easy to watch the vid back and pick faults and for me to slate myself, but when your out there in a race and can hear the bike behind in your ear it makes it hard to do everything perfectly. It more a survival mode you get into.
I'm working on throttle pic up too, but the vid isnt accurate enough to show the little slides you feel from the rear. That slide on lap one at the right hander at Peel corner looks small on the vid but i was right off the side of it and had to pull myself back on the bike. I notice the cam only really picks up the engine noise once it's fully open and the Rottweiler box is roaring.
Really handy having it to watch back though. That lap where i backed off to settle for 3rd and lost concentration you can really see the difference it made and i ran wide on 3 corners until i got back on it.
Excuse the crap wheelies. I could hardly breathe at the end let alone hoist it up .
This race was the 12.30 race exactly 1 year on from the funeral. Quite why i feathered that clutch back in when it snatched and got an ok start i'll never know. It's something i've never done before and didn't do it in race 2. Freaks me out a bit thinking about it.
I've left it full length to show the full experience from pit to pit. Just skip it forward to the race if you cant be bothered watching it.
I can see my biggest problem is being inconsistant with lines etc. Reece is perfect every lap. My pace isnt far away and if i can hit every apex perfectly over the full race the overall race time will come down and i'll place higher. It's something i know it have to work on and ive got steps in place to sort it. I find its real easy to watch the vid back and pick faults and for me to slate myself, but when your out there in a race and can hear the bike behind in your ear it makes it hard to do everything perfectly. It more a survival mode you get into.
I'm working on throttle pic up too, but the vid isnt accurate enough to show the little slides you feel from the rear. That slide on lap one at the right hander at Peel corner looks small on the vid but i was right off the side of it and had to pull myself back on the bike. I notice the cam only really picks up the engine noise once it's fully open and the Rottweiler box is roaring.
Really handy having it to watch back though. That lap where i backed off to settle for 3rd and lost concentration you can really see the difference it made and i ran wide on 3 corners until i got back on it.
Excuse the crap wheelies. I could hardly breathe at the end let alone hoist it up .
This race was the 12.30 race exactly 1 year on from the funeral. Quite why i feathered that clutch back in when it snatched and got an ok start i'll never know. It's something i've never done before and didn't do it in race 2. Freaks me out a bit thinking about it.
Viking
2012-08-29 07:32:00 UTC
Minor mistakes are very very easy, you sort of do them for some weird natural instinct, but can never explain them.
FWIW i had terrible trouble with race starts using slipper clutches, both on my 916 and my 750k1. Rarely did i end up going into turn 1 anything more than the back end of the field. I did find with the 750 (Running a Sigma slipper) that an extra 2000rpm held on the line made it a bit more managable. But it's common for slipper clutch riders to have less starting speed than them without. I guess it's a trade-off.
FWIW i had terrible trouble with race starts using slipper clutches, both on my 916 and my 750k1. Rarely did i end up going into turn 1 anything more than the back end of the field. I did find with the 750 (Running a Sigma slipper) that an extra 2000rpm held on the line made it a bit more managable. But it's common for slipper clutch riders to have less starting speed than them without. I guess it's a trade-off.
Stupid Luke
2012-08-29 19:07:00 UTC
Right then.
Here are both races from Rockingham. Bit embarassing but it was the 1st race weekend and at least we got some good coverage
Here are both races from Rockingham. Bit embarassing but it was the 1st race weekend and at least we got some good coverage
Viking
2012-08-29 19:28:00 UTC
Post missing.
Crotchrockety
2012-08-29 19:47:00 UTC
We need a "like" button on here
Viking
2012-08-29 22:54:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-08-30 08:08:00 UTC
Post missing.
nampus
2012-08-30 12:05:00 UTC
Sigma out. STM in.
Street has just been treated to a race bike clutching up wheelies up and down the street and doing full race starts from the bottom of the road.
Street has just been treated to a race bike clutching up wheelies up and down the street and doing full race starts from the bottom of the road.
Crotchrockety
2012-08-30 13:42:00 UTC
Good news! When is the next race?
bic_bicknell
2012-08-30 15:09:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-08-30 17:45:00 UTC
Good one one the clutch front Gordon, glad to hear it's performing as hoped. Clutch problems are a pisser!
Ducati Pete
2012-08-30 18:40:00 UTC
Bic, how you placed for time now? Could be doing with a quick chat. Boogies would like the logo sent over so they can make their own cards and stuff up to match the bike logo.
Phone me from the field tomorrow?
Phone me from the field tomorrow?
bic_bicknell
2012-08-31 21:21:00 UTC
gid stuff gordon
omky756
2012-09-01 03:05:00 UTC
some of Viking's pics from Anglesey
TLS_Russ
2012-09-01 03:37:00 UTC
Post missing.
fuel
2012-09-01 15:26:00 UTC
A few from the dodgy pit crew
Viking
2012-09-01 15:33:00 UTC
Gordon it must be driving you mad not having matching levers!
TLS_Russ
2012-09-01 15:47:00 UTC
I'm ok with it coz it's what works. LOnger standard clutch lever for feel and flip up Brembo brake lever for the fancy pukka master cylinder.
By the way. I dont really have a squint or look as simple as that in real life. It's had been a long 3 days when that pic was taken
By the way. I dont really have a squint or look as simple as that in real life. It's had been a long 3 days when that pic was taken
TLS_Russ
2012-09-01 15:54:00 UTC
Also you cant see it but the rear wheel spindle is the wrong way round, I changed the wheels on the Sunday evening, put the wets on ready for Monday, I said to Gordon "your rear wheel spindle is the wrong way round" I wanted to turn the spindle the right way round, Gordon said no, he got a 3rd with it that way so it stays as it is...........
Trouble is it still bothers me a week later I fitted the spindle the wrong way
Trouble is it still bothers me a week later I fitted the spindle the wrong way
fuel
2012-09-01 16:16:00 UTC
A couple from the second race, check out how much the rear tyre is deforming in this first one
bic_bicknell
2012-09-01 16:26:00 UTC
Very nice photo's Russ.
TLS_Russ
2012-09-01 16:37:00 UTC
Great photos Russ! Is it really that bright?
TLS_Russ
2012-09-01 20:19:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-09-02 00:46:00 UTC
couple more
nampus
2012-09-02 11:05:00 UTC
Another good un
rocketchick
2012-09-02 15:47:00 UTC
Nice pics!
bic_bicknell
2012-09-03 03:21:00 UTC
CEREC1
2012-09-03 04:13:00 UTC
That Cannon lens seems able to change the pink Echo branding on the left side of the tank to red. Hmmmm.....
Colonel_Klinck
2012-09-03 07:02:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-09-03 07:23:00 UTC
Post missing.
Colonel_Klinck
2012-09-03 19:32:00 UTC
Ducati Pete
2012-09-03 20:34:00 UTC
Post missing.
bic_bicknell
2012-09-04 00:45:00 UTC
I just skip through the pictures in this thread and move straight to the text bits.
It makes me feel a bit queasy.
It makes me feel a bit queasy.
rocketchick
2012-09-04 04:42:00 UTC
Ha ha. It is just a bit like watching someone puke up multi-coloured vomit right in front of your face isn't it.
KTM666
2012-09-05 02:29:00 UTC
Bic where your eyes crossed when you were looking at the photos ?
Viking
2012-09-05 04:51:00 UTC
I think the paint has done exactly what it needed too do...get noticed.......with Viking putting in these great preformances.....it will snowball...with one feeding off the other.....
41KS
2012-09-05 07:55:00 UTC
I have same pattern of thinking as you so understand you 100%. What helps me in similar cases to focus and perform - is I am realizing the other side as well. The point I am actually in. Positive sides. Think about the point YOU ARE actually. Think about your way to it, which was pretty amazing. Emotions. Effort. Achievements. Support from all the forum. Its your game, not these ones with those Triumphs or GSXR-s. Play it beautifully.
Jermo
2012-09-05 10:37:00 UTC
and most of all, try to enjoy all parts of racing, especially on the bike, just have tons of fun because that's what makes a rider smooth and consistent above anything else!
Jody
2012-09-05 14:49:00 UTC
Really good to hear you're doing well, just wish I had better Internet access so I could keep upto date!
Viking
2012-09-05 15:01:00 UTC
Cheers Jody.
Jermo/41KS
Of course. It's a buzz. I am calm and enjoying it all. The prep and buildup is enjoyable. When we get called to the holding bay I can hardly breathe, but it's weird, as soon as the visor drops and the lights go out I get calm. The heat of the race can get me going a bit but actually just lapping the bike, that's where I feel at home and it's the calmest part of the whole thing.
I find the whole racing thing super addictive. I love the mentality of it all and watching how other riders go about things. One of the things that's blew me away is how quick these guys get on pace.
My best laps when doing trackdays would always be in the afternoon after around 2 hours of trackime lapping away. But these guys don't ride inbetween races. They turn up having spent 4weeks off the bike, have a warm-up session. Then are a few seconds off lap record pace within 15mins on track. It's like in their minds there are two separate people. Visor goes down and they are on it! The series leader doesn't even have a roadbike license!
I can feel myself getting like that. But it takes me days of mental prep to get my head there. Like I do full race distances in my head on the treadmill. Visualize it all happeing from lights out to flag dropping. It works for me coz it helps take away the nerves. When I get on the grid obviously the adrenalines pumping, but I feel calmer coz I've already done 20-30 starts in my head in the weeks before.
The mental side of it is fascinating. There are points in a race weekend where it could all fall apart from one miss timed comment. What makes the front guys different is they can deal with that and instantly process it and dismiss it. There are little mind tricks played like before you go out someone will say turn 3 is really slippy. That will kill a weak man's Laptime. The strong man will acknowledge it and go out and make his own assessment. Some guy tried to mind fook me at Angelsey. We were chatting about the grabby clutch. He has no race experience, never sat there with 23 bikes around him waiting on the lights going off. He was telling me it's all in my head. No ground to say that, just trying to sound important. I fobbed it off. But repeatedly he kept tapping his temple whenever I saw him and repeating it. What I'm saying here is, that guy had no concept of the danger he was putting us in. If I got a mind fook going on about not being able to launch the bike and stalled it, without trying to sound likes drama queen, I might not be here today. As I was I basically had to have a bit of a bark at the guys and dismiss him. Then convinced myself I COULD launch it even with that bad clutch. Spoke to Rob on the way home from that meeting and he told me it was the biggest pile of shit clutch he'd ridden and to get rid of it. Takes you to the next step that shit.
What I'm getting at is. I'm not putting it on the front row through skill or talent. I did it through weeks of focus and getting my head totally in the right place and sheer determination. 70-80% of this stuff is all in the mind. I actually convince myself I'm the best rider out there
Jermo/41KS
Of course. It's a buzz. I am calm and enjoying it all. The prep and buildup is enjoyable. When we get called to the holding bay I can hardly breathe, but it's weird, as soon as the visor drops and the lights go out I get calm. The heat of the race can get me going a bit but actually just lapping the bike, that's where I feel at home and it's the calmest part of the whole thing.
I find the whole racing thing super addictive. I love the mentality of it all and watching how other riders go about things. One of the things that's blew me away is how quick these guys get on pace.
My best laps when doing trackdays would always be in the afternoon after around 2 hours of trackime lapping away. But these guys don't ride inbetween races. They turn up having spent 4weeks off the bike, have a warm-up session. Then are a few seconds off lap record pace within 15mins on track. It's like in their minds there are two separate people. Visor goes down and they are on it! The series leader doesn't even have a roadbike license!
I can feel myself getting like that. But it takes me days of mental prep to get my head there. Like I do full race distances in my head on the treadmill. Visualize it all happeing from lights out to flag dropping. It works for me coz it helps take away the nerves. When I get on the grid obviously the adrenalines pumping, but I feel calmer coz I've already done 20-30 starts in my head in the weeks before.
The mental side of it is fascinating. There are points in a race weekend where it could all fall apart from one miss timed comment. What makes the front guys different is they can deal with that and instantly process it and dismiss it. There are little mind tricks played like before you go out someone will say turn 3 is really slippy. That will kill a weak man's Laptime. The strong man will acknowledge it and go out and make his own assessment. Some guy tried to mind fook me at Angelsey. We were chatting about the grabby clutch. He has no race experience, never sat there with 23 bikes around him waiting on the lights going off. He was telling me it's all in my head. No ground to say that, just trying to sound important. I fobbed it off. But repeatedly he kept tapping his temple whenever I saw him and repeating it. What I'm saying here is, that guy had no concept of the danger he was putting us in. If I got a mind fook going on about not being able to launch the bike and stalled it, without trying to sound likes drama queen, I might not be here today. As I was I basically had to have a bit of a bark at the guys and dismiss him. Then convinced myself I COULD launch it even with that bad clutch. Spoke to Rob on the way home from that meeting and he told me it was the biggest pile of shit clutch he'd ridden and to get rid of it. Takes you to the next step that shit.
What I'm getting at is. I'm not putting it on the front row through skill or talent. I did it through weeks of focus and getting my head totally in the right place and sheer determination. 70-80% of this stuff is all in the mind. I actually convince myself I'm the best rider out there
weeksy
2012-09-05 15:12:00 UTC
Post missing.
CEREC1
2012-09-05 15:31:00 UTC
Hi Gordon,
Just keep you ramblings coming. It's always a good read, honestly, some, or most of us are a world apart from your abilities and as a result it's good to read a racers thoughts.
Keep on it.
Just keep you ramblings coming. It's always a good read, honestly, some, or most of us are a world apart from your abilities and as a result it's good to read a racers thoughts.
Keep on it.
drswade
2012-09-05 16:39:00 UTC
As we have discussed, you cannot do a single thing about those guys pulling away on the straights.
What you have over them is brakes, torque for strong exits and most of all, the ability for that bike to take just about any line into a turn.
Over and over again I would see two or three 600s fighting for that perfect line into a turn at the end of a fast section and I would just pop inside, or outside and take any line in and still be able to get a decent run through the turn.
Then they would yard me on the straights.
What you have over them is brakes, torque for strong exits and most of all, the ability for that bike to take just about any line into a turn.
Over and over again I would see two or three 600s fighting for that perfect line into a turn at the end of a fast section and I would just pop inside, or outside and take any line in and still be able to get a decent run through the turn.
Then they would yard me on the straights.
CEREC1
2012-09-05 20:09:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-09-08 23:53:00 UTC
Right.
Been doing alot of thinking. (shock) Bear with me while i ramble this out in my usual overthought waffle.
Been doing alot of thinking. (shock) Bear with me while i ramble this out in my usual overthought waffle.
nampus
2012-09-09 04:51:00 UTC
Nice wheels! I think it is awesome you are not taking the easy route and are sticking with the sd!
I hope those wheels will give you just that little bit extra to be even more competitive!
It's also nice to hear ktm is showing interest, extra sponsorship would be nice!
I hope those wheels will give you just that little bit extra to be even more competitive!
It's also nice to hear ktm is showing interest, extra sponsorship would be nice!
weeksy
2012-09-09 06:27:00 UTC
I know sometimes i bang on about "when i was racing..."
but...
When i was racing i was on a 916, like you Superduke it was about as high spec as it could be, Mag Marchesinis, STM slipper, 50mm system, blueprinted, gasflowed, Ohlins rear and forks, plenty of carbon, etc etc. In the 2nd season they introduced WSB rules, which allowed 750IL4's. Which ended up romping away from me on the straights. 3/4 of the way through season i bought a Gixer 750k1. Which i then raced. I finished all races in the same position on pretty much the same laptimes. The Gixer wasn't the answer for me personally to go quicker. I also didn't enjo riding it nearly as much as the 916. Go with your heart, not your head
but...
When i was racing i was on a 916, like you Superduke it was about as high spec as it could be, Mag Marchesinis, STM slipper, 50mm system, blueprinted, gasflowed, Ohlins rear and forks, plenty of carbon, etc etc. In the 2nd season they introduced WSB rules, which allowed 750IL4's. Which ended up romping away from me on the straights. 3/4 of the way through season i bought a Gixer 750k1. Which i then raced. I finished all races in the same position on pretty much the same laptimes. The Gixer wasn't the answer for me personally to go quicker. I also didn't enjo riding it nearly as much as the 916. Go with your heart, not your head
Jody
2012-09-09 08:42:00 UTC
Just a quick word to say when I went from Akro cans to full Akro system it was the mid range that had the noticeable increase. IMO that does help you get out the corners quicker. I've managed to out drag an equally skilled rider ( superdan) on a 'faster' bike (too-homo) down the start finish straight at cadwell simply because I could put more power down earlier!
Just my experience but worth mentioning
Just my experience but worth mentioning
Viking
2012-09-09 11:53:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-09-09 12:04:00 UTC
Post missing.
Viking
2012-09-09 12:16:00 UTC
The problem with sleving it is i lose the adjustability of the round joint to be able to tweak the exhaust to line back up after a crash.
£100 for them to do it, plus £100 diesel to take the bike down and £100 to collect it again. It all adds up man.
I'll Pm highscore after cadwell and take a good long tme to think about all the options. There are no real figures on the Remus so i want to fully research that option aswell.
£100 for them to do it, plus £100 diesel to take the bike down and £100 to collect it again. It all adds up man.
I'll Pm highscore after cadwell and take a good long tme to think about all the options. There are no real figures on the Remus so i want to fully research that option aswell.
Viking
2012-09-09 12:27:00 UTC
Dash is finally finished. Made more small changes to try and get the motor to run a little bit cooler so fitted an accurate display to keep tabs on it.
TLS_Russ
2012-09-09 16:46:00 UTC
Post missing.
KTM666
2012-09-09 17:13:00 UTC
Post missing.
rocketchick
2012-09-09 21:10:00 UTC
Hi Gordon: I'm glad your enjoying yourself
Is it possible for you to consider BSTs over Dymags ? I do believe that the BSTs weigh less than the Dymags..
Well when you buy your carbon wheels you will be launching off the line so fast, what a feeling of acceleration.
You will enjoy them ALOT!
Is it possible for you to consider BSTs over Dymags ? I do believe that the BSTs weigh less than the Dymags..
Well when you buy your carbon wheels you will be launching off the line so fast, what a feeling of acceleration.
You will enjoy them ALOT!
TLS_Russ
2012-09-09 21:49:00 UTC
Post missing.
rocketchick
2012-09-09 23:14:00 UTC
I had no idea about the bst troubles..
drswade
2012-09-09 23:29:00 UTC
I don't know why I didn't mention wheels before?
I guess I didn't know you had an endless budget.
To quote more than one guy at the races "The single most noticeable thing I did was by forged wheels."
It was my next step before...well, you know.
I was looking into OZ wheels because of the weight/strength/cost axis. Carbon are not repairable and it seems only the most mangled metal wheels can't be fixed.
I also needed two sets so the slightly less cost over carbon made me want them.
The only down side was that I would need a new complement of sprockets. The good news was that I think they use Kawi sprockets so those are waaay more available.
Look into all of this deeply before pulling the trigger, as I am sure you will Gordon.
I guess I didn't know you had an endless budget.
To quote more than one guy at the races "The single most noticeable thing I did was by forged wheels."
It was my next step before...well, you know.
I was looking into OZ wheels because of the weight/strength/cost axis. Carbon are not repairable and it seems only the most mangled metal wheels can't be fixed.
I also needed two sets so the slightly less cost over carbon made me want them.
The only down side was that I would need a new complement of sprockets. The good news was that I think they use Kawi sprockets so those are waaay more available.
Look into all of this deeply before pulling the trigger, as I am sure you will Gordon.
Viking
2012-09-09 23:42:00 UTC
The deciding factor came down to Dymag doing 30% off. If they were full price I couldn't have stretched to them.
Sale of my old wheels plus surplus parts are paying for 1/2 them. I'll hit the overtime hard over winter to pay the rest of the bill. It is an astronomical expense to me. But given the calibre of the class next year and that I'm on the back foot staying with the SD I need everything to be in place. I've got zero interest in running mid pack or making up numbers. There only reason for being out there in 2013 is to lift the Thundersport GB Championship. I'm starting to see I may actually be able to close the power gap a bit. Just a lot of small things all adding up to get me maybe 4-5bhp.
I'll still run standard cast brembos in the wet. It's going to be a pain only having 1 set of dry wheels and having to get tyres changed over between races at the track but I feel the performance will outweigh the hassle.
Dymag offer a repair service. How good that is or if I'll have to use it is unknown but it's there if needed. I heard a down side is the carbon doesn't hold heat like metal so the tyres can cool quickly. My warmers are shit hot. They'd almost the skin off your hand! And I pretty much always go at the very last minute so we should be ok.
They come with a sprocket of my choice included. So I just need to order one more rear. Between 39 and 40 t rears and 16 and 17 t fronts there's enough choice there. I've only just moved from 16/40 which I've ran everywhere for this round as it has a long straight. 16/39 with my 9950 rev limit gives me a 147mph top speed. Never seen more that 133 on GPS log to date so I'm sure that's enough.
Rob. Are you about tomorrow. I'm driving down south for a test day, I'll try and give you a call if I can get the time zones to match up.
Sale of my old wheels plus surplus parts are paying for 1/2 them. I'll hit the overtime hard over winter to pay the rest of the bill. It is an astronomical expense to me. But given the calibre of the class next year and that I'm on the back foot staying with the SD I need everything to be in place. I've got zero interest in running mid pack or making up numbers. There only reason for being out there in 2013 is to lift the Thundersport GB Championship. I'm starting to see I may actually be able to close the power gap a bit. Just a lot of small things all adding up to get me maybe 4-5bhp.
I'll still run standard cast brembos in the wet. It's going to be a pain only having 1 set of dry wheels and having to get tyres changed over between races at the track but I feel the performance will outweigh the hassle.
Dymag offer a repair service. How good that is or if I'll have to use it is unknown but it's there if needed. I heard a down side is the carbon doesn't hold heat like metal so the tyres can cool quickly. My warmers are shit hot. They'd almost the skin off your hand! And I pretty much always go at the very last minute so we should be ok.
They come with a sprocket of my choice included. So I just need to order one more rear. Between 39 and 40 t rears and 16 and 17 t fronts there's enough choice there. I've only just moved from 16/40 which I've ran everywhere for this round as it has a long straight. 16/39 with my 9950 rev limit gives me a 147mph top speed. Never seen more that 133 on GPS log to date so I'm sure that's enough.
Rob. Are you about tomorrow. I'm driving down south for a test day, I'll try and give you a call if I can get the time zones to match up.
weeksy
2012-09-10 06:45:00 UTC
What you after for the other wheels mate ?
Viking
2012-09-10 09:42:00 UTC
It'll be into October before I sort out everything for sale. A member already has dibs on a black pair. I'll post up when I get everything sorted
TLS_Russ
2012-09-10 14:16:00 UTC
Post missing.
Ducati Pete
2012-09-10 18:50:00 UTC
Post missing.
CEREC1
2012-09-10 20:02:00 UTC
Post missing.
nampus
2012-09-10 20:51:00 UTC
Maxime berger had an oz Wheel that failed to cope with the power of his ducati
CEREC1
2012-09-10 20:58:00 UTC
Post missing.
SDNerd
2012-09-10 23:10:00 UTC
Post missing.
rocketchick
2012-09-10 23:52:00 UTC
Viking, regarding cutting weight, are you already running a lithium battery? If not, that would be worth considering - early ones were a bit finicky but they're supposed to be pretty good now. I'm not sure how heavy the standard SD battery is, but typical weight loss quoted by switching to lithium is 2-3.5kg which would really help I'd have thought, especially since you could pick up a couple for around £500.
It is an obvious suggestion, so apologies if you've already done this, couldn't see it on the list of mods you posted earlier so thought it would be worth suggesting just in case.
It is an obvious suggestion, so apologies if you've already done this, couldn't see it on the list of mods you posted earlier so thought it would be worth suggesting just in case.
Jermo
2012-09-11 00:29:00 UTC
A Lithium battery is a great idea.. Check out Shorai, I just installed one
on my norton. It weighs less than 2lbs or 1kg
on my norton. It weighs less than 2lbs or 1kg
drswade
2012-09-11 10:37:00 UTC
Post missing.
CEREC1
2012-09-11 15:32:00 UTC
I love the focus of Berger, even without a wheel!
Viking
2012-09-11 16:23:00 UTC
Post missing.
TLS_Russ
2012-09-11 17:17:00 UTC
Quick update.
It has a shorai battery.
Heading home from a sneaky trackday at Cadwell. It was a mini Thundersport meeting! The top 3 guys apart from Reece were all there testing too. Good laugh chatting and having banter outside the race environment coz we were all more relaxed. Had a couple of funny half hearted battles with them on track.
Was working with my coach doing some rider training. Put on a few lightbulbs in my head. Exit and pick up is a lot better now. Proper lost the front at old hairpin and it went to full lock, used one of my drills and added throttle and saved it! Cool watching Yeh vid back from his bike. We worked on getting it driving earlier by changing my entry. Into Coppice it was leaving big darkies from the rear even before the apex
Stanier who is 2nd highsided at the Gooseneck. Bike is fooked. Yaaaay! That's one less to worry about!
I was on the infinitely fooked tyres that had done all of Rockingham so we weren't pushing hard and we're trying a lot of drills. Was doing low-mid 1.42's with plenty in reserve. If I don't see at least a 1.39 on the timer in the race I'll be disappointed. Hoping to hit the 38's.
Shattered. Heading home. Start work at 7am
It has a shorai battery.
Heading home from a sneaky trackday at Cadwell. It was a mini Thundersport meeting! The top 3 guys apart from Reece were all there testing too. Good laugh chatting and having banter outside the race environment coz we were all more relaxed. Had a couple of funny half hearted battles with them on track.
Was working with my coach doing some rider training. Put on a few lightbulbs in my head. Exit and pick up is a lot better now. Proper lost the front at old hairpin and it went to full lock, used one of my drills and added throttle and saved it! Cool watching Yeh vid back from his bike. We worked on getting it driving earlier by changing my entry. Into Coppice it was leaving big darkies from the rear even before the apex
Stanier who is 2nd highsided at the Gooseneck. Bike is fooked. Yaaaay! That's one less to worry about!
I was on the infinitely fooked tyres that had done all of Rockingham so we weren't pushing hard and we're trying a lot of drills. Was doing low-mid 1.42's with plenty in reserve. If I don't see at least a 1.39 on the timer in the race I'll be disappointed. Hoping to hit the 38's.
Shattered. Heading home. Start work at 7am
bic_bicknell
2012-09-11 17:46:00 UTC
All good news Gordon
stalker
2012-09-11 18:59:00 UTC
Sounds like a good day mate. Two weeks seems a long time to wait now, eh?
Viking
2012-09-11 20:26:00 UTC
good work sir
Colonel_Klinck
2012-09-15 12:14:00 UTC
If you click on "Fast group Black/Silver bikes" you'll see Staniers full highside from start to finish. He's the guy who finished 2nd ahead of me in the last race and is running 2nd in the championship. Doesn't look like that bike will be out there at Caldwell! Sore one!
Cadwell is so narrow they only have 3 bikes to a line instead of 4. So I need to be top 3 to get on the front row and make full use of that new STM diaphragm clutch. With Stanier out that's only 1 GSXR left to beat.
I took a quick pic of the bikes at the Cadwell trackday. That guy you see there is Drew Plaskett. He does 1.36's round there and that white 750! Great guy and a gentleman to race with. Such a shame I'm gonna have to elbow him out the way as I barge past on the tractor on my way to a win on Saturday.
Cadwell is so narrow they only have 3 bikes to a line instead of 4. So I need to be top 3 to get on the front row and make full use of that new STM diaphragm clutch. With Stanier out that's only 1 GSXR left to beat.
I took a quick pic of the bikes at the Cadwell trackday. That guy you see there is Drew Plaskett. He does 1.36's round there and that white 750! Great guy and a gentleman to race with. Such a shame I'm gonna have to elbow him out the way as I barge past on the tractor on my way to a win on Saturday.
Superdan
2012-09-15 16:04:00 UTC
Jesus that bike really was destroyed in seconds
stalker
2012-09-15 19:00:00 UTC
Holy hell thats a crash!
Dude, im afraid im on nights this weekend Fri/Sat/Sun and I cant take any leave im afraid as saving it for snowboard holiday, cant even come down to watch
Dude, im afraid im on nights this weekend Fri/Sat/Sun and I cant take any leave im afraid as saving it for snowboard holiday, cant even come down to watch
The Gin Reaper
2012-09-15 19:12:00 UTC
funny as
Superdan
2012-09-15 23:29:00 UTC
@superdan......you could call in you own incident!
999 - emergency services what service do you require?...... hello, yes emergency services, yes, police please........police hello yes, i'd like to report a case of tyre abuse, yes tyre abuse, please could you send PC brown to Cadwell Park ASAP...... yes i know he's not a proper biker and hasn't got a superduke but i feel he's the only copper who would understand......Yes, thank you very much....... <end call>
....and their you go.....off to cadwell with your blues and two's on....waving a flag for viking! yay!
right ....i'm pissed now so off to bed! hehe!
toodles!
999 - emergency services what service do you require?...... hello, yes emergency services, yes, police please........police hello yes, i'd like to report a case of tyre abuse, yes tyre abuse, please could you send PC brown to Cadwell Park ASAP...... yes i know he's not a proper biker and hasn't got a superduke but i feel he's the only copper who would understand......Yes, thank you very much....... <end call>
....and their you go.....off to cadwell with your blues and two's on....waving a flag for viking! yay!
right ....i'm pissed now so off to bed! hehe!
toodles!