Hello everyone and welcome to my first column here at IPM. Although I have been involved with the magazine since its inception back in October of last year, I have been mostly behind the scenes, helping all the guys properly sort their machines, while still ripping my R1 (see November 2006 Issue) around town.

One of the main problems of having such expensive rims, is the bad condition of our city’s roads. The solution? I acquired a Husqvarna SM610, a street-legal Supermotard, which are ever increasing in popularity as of late. This monster eats potholes for breakfast! They don’t even slow it down.

This machine is quite different to ride from the Yamaha R1. The seating position is much more relaxed. The bike is fitted with a headlamp grille that acts as a partial wind screen. The 12 liter tank has a locking fuel cap. The digital instrumentation, which displays the normal warning lights, turn indicators, high/low beam, speed, mileage, rpm, and time, also features a trip meter and displays service intervals. The SM 610 has been designed for the road, as well as the off-road!

Well that’s it for me this month. Come visit often for updates!