’ ll start with a disclaimer ... I ’ m not a journalist and I don ’ t ride much on the road these days , I save it for the safety of the track . Ok , disclaimer over . So , I was having a chat and a beer with Jock and he mentioned he was testing the Aprilia RS660 . Now , I reckon the only way to properly test any sportsbike is at the track . I think it ’ s safer , whilst allowing you to fully explore the capabilities of the bike and not have to worry about dealing with traffic , oncoming vehicles , poor road surfaces or getting throttle happy and accidentally incurring demerit points or much worse . After some gentle persuading , Jock agreed to attend an HD Moto day at Hampton Downs , my favourite way to spend a weekend .

TRACK DAY If you have never taken your bike to the track before , then I highly encourage you to do so . It ’ s a safe environment and will help you learn

how to get the most out of your machine and improve your riding skills . I ’ m fortunate to be able to call Hampton Downs my home track ... as it ’ s my favourite in New Zealand . HD Moto is a professionally run track day event , open to everyone with a bike and a minimum of a current Restricted Motorcycle Licence or MNZ Race Licence . The event hosts all sorts of bikes , so don ’ t think you need a sportsbike to ride , it ’ s not unusual to see adventure bikes , tourers and nakeds alongside more dedicated sportsbike and track weapons . Many riders ride there on their bike , do the track day and then ride home . You and your daily commuter have quite likely got hidden talents and capabilities that you just haven ’ t uncovered yet !

SPEED GROUPS HD Moto is run in four different speed groups including Novice , Slow / Medium , Medium / Fast and Race , so you ’ re grouped with similar speed

38 KIWI RIDER