Monday, 14 June 2010

Riding with Cambodia's super sport bikers


Despite the kingdom’s cheap roads and expensive taxis, super sport bike enthusiasts are enjoying a roaring time in Cambodia

via Khmer NZ News Media



“I call it The Beast,” says Lee of his 2006 Yamaha R1. He is one of the founding members of Independence Monument Riders, Cambodia’s first super sport bike club, which meets at Independence Monument in central Phnom Penh. The informal club is made up of people from different backgrounds, but are all connected through their love of bikes. And money. Some of the 1000cc beasts can cost as much as US$20,000, and the net worth of the bikes in the group is estimated at over US$150,000. Malaysian-born Aru is the proud owner of an Aprilia Haga 1000R, one of only 300 in the world.

Since the first super sport Suzuki RF900 was spotted in Phnom Penh in 2000, the number of 600cc big bikes in the capital has reached around 100. However, as riders look to challenge themselves further and keep up with the rest, Lee expects the number of 1000cc bikes to increase in the coming years. For now though, they remain something of a rarity in Cambodia.

If you’re tempted to join them or just fancy checking out the bikes, head down to Independence Monument early evening at the weekends. Don’t forget to take a camera.

Feeling inspired to ride the open roads or get off the beaten track but don’t have your own wheels? Head down to The Bike Shop to hire a dirt bike from US$25 a day or a Harley Davidson from US$200 a day.
The Bike Shop, No 31, Street 302, Tel 023 211 610 www.motorcyclecambodia.com

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