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No. 105 July/August 2015 £4.10
FIRST RIDE
Editor: Mau Spencer mspencer@mortons.co.uk Publisher: Steve Rose Contributors: Jonathan Crocker, Joe Dick, Pete Henshaw, Iggy, Mau, Rich Sinclair, Carli Ann Smith. Apologies to anyone we’ve forgotten. Design: Charlotte Turnbull Reprographics: Paul Fincham, Jonathan Schofield Divisional advertising team leader: Richard Sinclair rsinclair@mortons.co.uk Advertising: Andrew Bruce abruce@mortons.co.uk 01507 524412 Subscription manager: Paul Deacon Circulation manager: Steve O’Hara Marketing manager: Charlotte Park Publishing director: Dan Savage Commercial director: Nigel Hole Associate director: Malc Wheeler Twist & Go magazine PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 6LZ www.twistngo.com www.whatscooter.com Editorial call: 01507 529408 General queries and back issues: 01507 529529 (24hr answerphone) Email: help@classicmagazines.co.uk Web: www.classicmagazines.co.uk UK: 6 issues £22 Europe: 6 issues £27 ROW: 6 issues £31 Archivist: Jane Skayman 01507 529423 jskayman@mortons.co.uk Subscription Full subscription rates (but see page 22 for offer): (12 months 12 issues, inc post and packing) – UK £24.60. Export rates are also available – see page 22 for more details. UK subscriptions are zero-rated for the purposes of Value Added Tax. Distribution: COMAG, Tavistock Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7QE. Tel 01895 433600 © Mortons Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage retrieval system without prior permission in writing from the publisher. ISSN No 1471–0501 USA SUBSCRIPTIONS Twist & Go magazine TWIST & GO (ISSN:1471-0501) is published bi-monthly by Mortons Media Group Ltd., PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6LZ UK . USA subscriptions are $36 per year from Motorsport Publications LLC, 7164 Cty Rd N #441, Bancroft WI 54921. Periodical Postage is paid at Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Postmaster: Send address changes to TAG, c/o Motorsport Publications LLC, 7164 Cty Rd N #441, Bancroft WI 54921. 715-572-4595 chris@classicbikebooks.com Printed by William Gibbons & Son, Wolverhampton. Some articles within these pages express the opinions of the contributors and are not necessarily those of Twist & Go. E&OE: While we do our best to ensure our information is accurate, all mention of special offers or other deals are subject to alteration by the companies mentioned. NEXT ISSUE (106): Published on Aug 19, 2015 EDITORIAL DEADLINE: July 17, 2015
IN DETAIL
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Independent publisher since 1885
Having trouble finding a copy of this magazine? Why not Just Ask your local newsagent to reserve you a copy each month?
WHO’SWHO?
50
GOSSIP ‘N’ GADGETS
Up-to-date news and product information
NEW METAL
What’s new for 2015?
PRODUCT REVIEWS
A closer look at some of the latest goodies
HONDA CB125F
Iggy tries the latest incarnation of Honda’s entry-level learner-legal bike
RIEJU CITY LINE 300
Mau tests the Spanish manufacturer’s A2-complaint maxi scooter
SUZUKI ADDRESS 110
Is there a need for a 113cc scooter? Iggy finds out
YZFR3 LAUNCH
Carli reports on Yamaha’s new entry into the bulging 300cc bike market
LAZING ON A SUNNY AFTERNOON
Mau and Carli do individual tests on the Sinnis SP 125 and the AJS TN12
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66 68 71 94
WIN A KSR MOTO GRS 125!
Your chance to win a new bike in our free-to-enter competition
NMAX LAUNCH TEST
Yamaha’s new sporty urban commuter
GETTING ON THE ROAD
Want your licence but don’t know where to start? We tell you how…
TRAINING DAY
Jon Crocker, discovers that a run-in with the police isn’t always a bad thing…
URBAN SURVIVAL SKILLS
How to cope in the countryside
READERS’ LETTERS
Have your say on the topics you choose
WHICH BIKE?
Our new and expanded guide to new scooters and motorcycles
SALES AND WANTS
Find what you’re looking for in our classified section
SCRATCHING BENEATH THE SURFACE
ARE YOU A SUBSCRIBER?
SUPER MOTARD FUN!
See page 22 for details
Pete Henshaw goes west on Lexmoto’s new Diablo 125
Iggy tests the tasty KSR TW 125
MAU SPENCER T&G editor Mau has been riding bikes since he was 16. He’s also the founding editor of Classic Scooterist magazine. Although someone has to be in the office to steer the good ship T&G, he manages to get out of the office on odd occasions and has just tested Rieju’s first A2 compliant maxi scooter, the City Line 300 CARLI ANN SMITH Carli has been riding bikes for over a decade. She loves all things two-wheeled and started her riding career on a DT125. In between the task of interviewing some of the industry’s leading figures, she recently covered the launch ofYamaha’s new A2-compliantYZF-R3.
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PETE HENSHAW Pete doesn’t own a car and is happily dependent on two-wheel transport – anything powered by petrol, diesel, pedals or even slight electrical assistance. IAN ‘IGGY’ GRAINGER Iggy has been contributing articles to T&G since 2003. He’s been busy recently, testing bikes for this issue.
Get a copy of your favourite magazine before others!
A QUART IN A PINT POT One of the problems we have to deal with in the modern motorcycle world is that things can creep up on you. Just when we thought we’d got this issue sorted, a couple of unexpected bike press launches turned up out of the blue. Not wanting you to miss out on these, the decision has been taken to squeeze them in wherever we can – hence this cut-down contents page.
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Lucky KYMCO winner
Anthony Barton’s face says it all – well, if you had just won this KYMCO CK 125 in our recent T&G competition, wouldn’t you be smiling? Congratulations Anthony on winning you prize; we hope you have many enjoyable hours of riding on it. Thanks to KYMCO UK (www.kymco.co.uk/) for supplying the prize.
Latestindustryfigures (InformationsuppliedbytheMCIA) APRIL 2015 & YEAR TO DATE COMPARISONS BY ENGINE BAND 0-55cc 51-125cc 126-650cc 651-1000cc Over 1000cc TOTAL REGISTRATIONS
April 2015
April 2014
% Change
April 2015 YTD
April 2014 YTD
% Change
813 3792 1504 2758 2083 10,950
844 3367 1306 2155 2192 9864
-3.7% 12.6% 15.2% 28.0% -5.0% 11.7%
2759 12,224 5705 8630 6881 36,199
3033 10,936 4784 4784 6885 32,470
-9.0% 11.8% 19.3% 26.3% -0.1% 11.5%
HIGHEST REGISTERING MODEL IN ENGINE BAND
Haynes Chinese 125 motorcycle manual updated
If you own a Chinese, Taiwanese or Korean 125cc motorcycle, then you might be interested to know that Haynes Publishing has updated its service and repair manual which covers these models. The revisions include the additions of a chapter on the 154FMI (YBR125) type engine models. Visit www.haynes.co.uk for more information.
Honda manual winners
Congratulations to the five lucky winners of the recent Haynes Honda manual competition. They are as follows: Cameron Watterson, Little Weighton, Hull; Barry Page, Horsham, West Sussex; Andy Wedge, Wigan, Lancs; Celia West, Wimborne, Dorset; Allan Smith, Whitehaven, Cumbria. Thanks to Haynes Publishing (www.haynes.co.uk) for providing the prizes.
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0-50cc 51-125cc 126-650cc 651-1000cc Over 1000cc
Direct Bikes DB 50 QT-11 Honda PCX 125 Honda CB 650 F Yamaha MT-09 TRACER BMW R 1200 GS
51 200 62 200 130
MAJOR BRAND SALES
Honda Yamaha Triumph BMW Kawasaki
1890 1526 856 774 728
Lexmoto H-Davidson KTM Ducati Suzuki
561 500 423 414 353
UK PTW BACKGROUND INFORMATION (Dept for Transport figures)
Motorcycles in use 1.2 million 2010 0.927 million 2011 1.2 million 2012 1.2 million 2013
Rider test passes 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13
Distance travelled by bike
32,000 34,500 39,900 30,500
2.9 billion miles 2.9 billion miles 2.8 billion miles 2.7 billion miles
£7.5 million set aside to boost the uptake for electric bikes Business minister, Matthew Hancock, announced that motorcycles and scooters will join cars, vans, trucks and buses in the Government’s drive for greener vehicles. Up to £7.5million will be set aside to boost the uptake of electric twowheelers and help bikers bridge the cost gap between a zeroemission electric motorcycle and conventional petrol versions. The grant could offer up to £1500 off the purchase price and allow motorcyclists to reduce both their running costs and environmental impact. The move comes following meetings with the electric Motor Cycle Industry Association and leading manufacturers including Suzuki, Harley-Davidson, BMW, Volt, and Mahindra. The minister also announced that seven new hydrogen projects have been given the green light. This £6.6 million investment will
see an initial network of 12 hydrogen refuelling stations established, including new stations built in Brentford and Croydon and a new mobile station that will be used across the south of England, as well as upgrades to existing hydrogen demonstrator stations.
This represents a significant step in enabling the use of hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles in the UK. What do you think about this? Are financial grants the right way forward to encourage the uptake of electric bikes?
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On Two Wheels learner riders app launched Do you know someone who wants to learn to ride a motorcycle? Have no idea where to start? The new app, On Two Wheels, does what the name suggests and is the complete pocket guide to help you get aboard a two-wheeled machine. Whether you’re 16 and looking for that first bit of freedom, a busy commuter looking to get away from public transport or a
Motorbike chain lube £7.95
more experience rider looking for advice on further training or beginning bike maintenance, take a look. Work your way through the different chapters to go from licence-less and bike-less to kitted-up and fully prepped. • WHY RIDE? If you need an excuse to get on two wheels or aren’t sure how it will benefit you, we’ve got it. We teach you to find your way around a bike and give you all the important terms you’ll need to know, as well as offering some handy hints on where you can try it out. • GET A LICENCE. Want to know how to pick an instructor, how to get through your CBT first time, what the common fails are and what the licence requirements are? We’ll tell you…
Liqui Moly bike chain lube is a fully synthetic chain grease which is adhesive and water resistant. It is especially suitable in dusty, dirty and corrosive atmospheres. It is suitable for highly stressed and high-speed chains with and without O-rings. The manufacturers claim it reduces chain elongation and provides a long chain service life. This product will form part of a £200-plus Liqui Moly competition prize in the next issue of T&G – don’t miss it! Info: www.riejumoto.co.uk/
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•
•
•
KIT YOURSELF OUT. Buying the right kit is important – there’s advice on the different options to choose from and what you should be looking for. From helmets to boots, jackets to back protectors – we’ve got it covered. BUYING A BIKE. You’ll find loads of reviews on different categories of machines – and we’ll also look at things such as insurance, the MoT process and how to avoid common first-time buyer mistakes. ENJOYING YOUR BIKE. Buying a machine isn’t where the fun ends. You’ll find top tips on riding tips for dodgy weather through to overtaking,
Peugeot 2T carb replacement £ variable
The new Peugeot 50cc 2T scooter standard replacement carburettor is suitable for fitment to the original two-hole manifold and is supplied ready to fit complete with auto choke unit. It comes fitted with a 72 main jet, which may require changing depending on the year of the scooter it is being installed on. VE (UK) also stocks a complete range of suitable jets at extra cost. Peugeot scooters that use this carburettor include: Buxy, Elyseo, Elystar, Looxor, Metal X, Speedake, Speedfight 1+2 air cooled and liquid-cooled models, Squab, Trekker, Vivacity 1+2 models, and Zenith. Info: www.ve-uk.com
•
cornering and riding on motorways and in traffic. LOOKING AFTER YOUR BIKE. Ever wondered what the top 10 tips are to keep your bike safe? They’re in there. There’s advice on how to store your beloved machine and a growing how-to-do-it yourself section. Available for all Apple devices the price is £1.49, but once downloaded, you’ll receive any updates for free – and rest assured it will be regularly updated with the latest reviews and legislation updates. Download it here: http://bit.ly/OnTwoWheels
RecoverMe launches motorcycle cover With prices starting at £44.99, RecoverMe’s standard motorbike recovery policy includes: home start, unlimited recovery mileage, mechanical breakdown, misfuelling and even accommodation if stranded – a saving of more than £100 in comparison with similar policies from other providers. It also has access to more than 800 recovery agents’ locations and promises to recover motorcyclists from anywhere in the UK, 24/7, 365 days a year. A free smartphone app can be used to put the rider in touch with the recovery team at the touch of a button and there’s also access to a legal support helpline. RecoverMe is part of Auto Rescue Logistics, which has been providing recovery services to professional drivers since 2002. The firm has longstanding contracts with many household names in the fleet and insurance markets.
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Internal camera bag £30.20
Safely carry photography equipment on the bike thanks to the new internal camera bag from GIVI, designed to fit in any GIVI tank or saddle bags with a minimum capacity of 14 litres. The inner part of the bag houses padded separators made from anti-scratch velveteen to prevent damage – they can be moved around to accommodate different sized items. The bag is made from 600D polyester with polyurethane reinforcements and features a mesh pocket with a zip on the opening side to carry other items including SD cards and wires. Once off the bike, the bag can be carried by the shoulder strap or by using the handle. Info: www.givi.co.uk / 01327 706220
Furygan 01 and D02 jeans £119.99 (01), £129.99 (D02)
With the appearance of a pair of fashion jeans, the Furygan 01 and D02 trousers have Kevlar lining on the back, hips, front of thighs and knees and are fitted with D30 armour at the knee – which are adjustable with two height options. Areas exposed to abrasion in a crash situation are triple or quadruple stitched to avoid tearing. There are four pockets on the straight cut trousers. Available in sizes 36-50. Info: www.nevis.uk.com / 01425 478936
Rideawaya125cc KYMCOfor£99deposit
New finance packages from KYMCO Finance in conjunction with Black Horse Motorcycle Finance means that riders can ‘scoot’ away on a KYMCO machine with just a £99 deposit. Available on all new 125cc machines, from the Agility 125, the big-wheeled City 125 and People One 125i, to the Downtown 125i scooter, in addition to the new CK1 125 motorcycle. The offer is open to all customers aged 18 or over – subject to terms and conditions. KYMCO is also offering a unique subsidised insurance package on all new 125cc motorcycles and selected scooters. From May 1 until September 30, 2015, KYMCO will make a £125 contribution towards all new third party only and third party, fire and theft KYMCO insurance policies purchased through Lexham Insurance. All KYMCO machines come with a two-year unlimited mileage parts and labour manufacturers’ warranty. Info: www.kymco.co.uk.
£1500subsidyon BMWCevolution Purchasers of new BMW C evolution maxiscooters will be among the first riders able to take advantage of the grant for electric motorcycles just announced by the UK government. The grant offers up to £1500 off the purchase price of a new electric motorcycle and allows motorcyclists to reduce both their running costs and environmental impact. Up to £7.5m will be set aside to boost the uptake for electric two wheelers, with significant benefits both for the environment and reducing personal travel costs. Customers purchasing a new electric motorcycle meeting the subsidy’s requirements – which includes the BMW C evolution – will have the purchase price reduced.
YZF-R 182cc cylinder kit £ ask
Malossi has revised its Yamaha YZF-R 125 182cc cylinder kit for models from 2014 onwards. The kit is manufactured from Nikasil plated aluminium alloy with a high content of hardened and tempered silicone. Included with the cylinder is Malossi’s ‘Force Master 2’CDI unit that has four different preconfigured mappings to suit various tuning configurations. In addition the CDI unit raises the rev limiter by 1000rpm allowing greater top speed and improved acceleration throughout the gear range. Info: www.ve-uk.com
10 www.twistngo.com
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Pocket-sized waterproofs £29.14 (rain jacket), £23.62 (trousers), £30.73(fluorainjacket)
Hevik has launched a range of pocket-sized waterproofs – choose from a two-piece rainsuit or a high-visibility fluo jacket – all of which fit into the palm of your hand when folded into their carry bags. Made from 70-denier nylon 190T – the waterproofs are light yet waterproof. They feature sealed seams and both jackets are windproof. The front zip is protected by a Velcro flap and the wrists have elastic closures with Velcro at the wrists. There are reflective inserts on the rear of the jackets for improved visibility. The rain jacket is available in sizes S-3XL; the trousers are available in the same sizes; the fluo rain jacket is available in sizes L and XL. Info: www.hevik.co.uk / 01327 706220
YZF-R GP MHR replica exhaust £ ask
Following the release of its updated Yamaha YZF-R 125 2014> 182cc cylinder kit, Malossi has introduced a matching exhaust system. The new‘GP MHR Replica’exhaust system is‘E’marked for road use and has an elliptical stainless steel cross section body. It features a carbon fibre end can and exhaust strap. Info: www.ve-uk.com
Fancy £35 off a set of Michelin tyres? Michelin has launched a new offer across a number of road tyres in their motorcycle range. Customers can claim up to £35 back when they fit a set of new tyres – or £15 for a single tyre – either by bank transfer or in the form or a fuel card. Purchase any of the following tyres from an official Michelin dealer before Friday, July 31, 2015 to qualify: MICHELIN Power Supersport Evo, MICHELIN Pilot Power 3, MICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT, MICHELIN Pilot Road 4, MICHELIN Pilot Road 3, MICHELIN Anakee III and MICHELIN Commander II. Visit your nearest Michelin dealer or moto.michelin.co.uk for more information.
Heritage wax jacket £169.99
Forma Cooper boots £139.99
The latest edition to the Forma urban collection is the Cooper boot – a CE-approved waterproof trainer-styled boot which features a Drytex waterproof membrane and a full-grain leather upper; there’s an anti-bacterial replaceable footbed, padded collar and tongue for comfort, reinforced heel and toe areas and TPU moulded plastic ankle protectors. Lace fasteners keep them secure and there’s a reflective rear insert for increased visibility. Available in black and white or anthracite in sizes 36-47. Info: www.factoryagencies.co.uk / 01749 342491
Oxford Products has launched its 1973 collection of wax cotton jackets and trousers. The water repellent heritage wax jacket is available in black, olive and brown for the gents and black or olive for the ladies. It features removable CE-approved protectors at the shoulders and the elbows and provision for a back protector. There’s a fixed micro-mesh breathable liner and a removable and washable quilted thermal liner to keep you warm. There’s plenty of space for your belongings with four exterior pockets and two inside, plus a mobile phone pocket. The adjustable belt on the waist keeps everything snug and the collar and cuffs are secured with press studs. The Velcro patch on the sleeve is removable and there’s a soft padded collar and back pad for comfort. Available is sizes S-4XL for men and 8-18 for women. Oxford SP-J6 cargo pants finish off the look – available in 30-40in waist and 29-33in leg lengths – they are priced at £119.99. Info: www.oxprod.com / 01993 862300
Piaggio 50 high performance crankcase £ ask
This new MHR C-One crankcase is suitable for Piaggio 50cc twostroke scooters. It’s available as a complete kit or as a standalone crankcase and is suitable for both long and short wheelbase configurations, which can accept traditionally mounted cylinders or Malossi cylinders, using its new flange-type mounting. Additionally, the crankcase can be used for either disc or drum brake applications. It has been further enhanced to improve performance by removing the autolube system and mechanical water pump to reduce power loss; this allows an electric water pump installation for suitable cooling. Info: www.ve-uk.com
Motorbike cleaner £13.95
This cleaning fluid has been specially developed for motorbikes and scooters and is free of environmentally harmful solvents – simply spray it on, leave it for 10 minutes, then wash it off. This product will form part of a £200-plus Liqui Moly competition prize in the next issue of T&G – don’t miss it! Info: www.riejumoto.co.uk
12 www.twistngo.com
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Spilsby Bike Night The Lincolnshire market town of Spilsby came alive on May 20 for the annual bike night. Organised by Wildman Motorcycles, the event yet again proved to be a success, in despite intermittent bouts of rain and hailstones – which did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of everyone who attended. The event has gone from success to success over recent years with local residents getting in on the act and keeping their businesses open late to provide catering and other facilities to the visiting bikers. Fairground-style amusements, riding displays and live music were also on offer, alongside a selection of stalls (including one for Cadwell Park) and representatives of the emergency services. Donations from the event will go to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance service – if you wish to make a further contribution, then contact Peter at Wildmans Motorcycles via peter@wildmansmcs.plus.com or by phoning him on 01790 753219.
Weise Atlanta jacket RRP: £159.99
The Atlanta jacket has a popper and Velcro retained storm flap over the main zip. It features a waterproof, windproof and breathable drop lining and thermal quilted liner too. There are waterproof-zipped vents at the chest, sides, back and arms and the collar features a loop and hook system so the wearer can secure it open while riding, or when wearing it off the bike. Velcro adjusters on the arms, cuffs and at the waist allow for the use of base layers, while stretch panels at the shoulders, sides and elbows help to make it comfortable. There are two external and three internal pockets, a waterproof‘Napoleon’ pocket behind the main zip – ideal for wallet or mobile phone – and a rear pocket with side entry. CE-approved armour is fitted at the shoulders, elbows and back as standard. It comes in sizes S5XL, in black, and black/stone.
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Booster Kevlar hoodies £99.99 upwards
Aqua aramid reinforced hoodie £119.99
Oxford Products has launched a hoodie with integral aramid reinforcements and removable CE elbow armour, to protect against abrasion and absorb impacts in case of a fall. It features a waterproof membrane and has provision for a back protector – which is available to buy separately. Available in sizes S-4XL. Info: www.oxprod.com / 01993 862300
Available in sizes S-XXXL, the new Booster Core and Hunt Kevlar hoods are made from heavy-duty cotton with Kevlar reinforcements on the shoulders, elbows and back. They feature removable CE armour at the elbows, shoulders and there’s a pocket for an optional back protector and removable hood. The Core hoodie is available in a range of colours including: black, red, burgundy, green, blue, dark grey, light grey and camo – all priced at £99.99. The Hunt comes in: blue/red check, blue/white check – priced at £114.99 and camo at £124.99. www.factoryagencies.co.uk / 01749 342491
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Prexport Street boots £99.99
With a full-grain leather upper, Texon insole reinforced with a steel blade and composite protectors in the heel and toe, these Street boots combine the protection needed from a motorcycle boot with the fashion of casual footwear. The upper is treated and aged for a vintage look; inside is a fully breathable Airtex membrane, which helps to keep your feet cool and dry. Padding around the ankle provides extra comfort. They’re fastened using laces and a zip and there’s a pull tab on the rear, making the Street quick and easy to get on and off. Reflective detailing on the heel is featured for added visibility. Available in vintage brown or grey in sizes 7-12. Info: www.thekeycollection.co.uk / 0117 971 9200
Pol jacket £129.99
As part of its spring/summer collection, Tucano Urbano has introduced the Pol jacket to its range. The outer shell is made with silicon treated cotton canvas – giving the feel of a classic wax cotton without the need to re-wax – and is water repellent. The slimfit waist-length jacket features CE-approved D30 armour at the elbows and shoulders and includes a pocket for a back protector. It also features the brand’s Reflactive System inserts– high-visibility sections that can be put on show when needed. The retro style is emphasised by vintage panelling on the shoulders and elbows and is available in brown and toffee colour options. There’s a buckle system around the hem, sides and cuffs for adjustability and different-sized internal and external pockets. Available in sizes S-3XL. Info: www.tucanourbano.com/gb/
Shark’s extra visor offer For a limited time Shark UK dealers will be offering an additional visor worth up to £86.99 free-of-charge when buying selected lids. Helmets included in this deal are the Race–R Pro Carbon and Pro, Speed–R Carbon and Speed-R, as well as the Vision-R, Explore-R and Evoline Carbon. The additional visors included with the purchase of one of the selected helmets include Pinlock, with Pinlock Max, or black, chrome, mirror, iridium and smoke. Info: www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936.
Music player kit £ ask
This fully featured FM radio and MP3 player kit has the ability to play FM radio (autoscan), and MP3 tracks from either the Micro SD slot or the USB socket.The kit includes the control/interface box, two speakers with mounting brackets, and two remote controls. Remote-control functions include: mode switch, play/pause, stop, and track forward/back. Installation is simple with only two wires to connect to a switched 12v power input and prewired speaker connectors connect to the control/interface box. Info: www.ve-uk.com
RG-17 motorcycle gloves £79.99
Developed from Furygan’s racing department, the RG-17 is a new generation of short gloves.They feature Skin Protect lining and have external shell protection on the metacarpals and palm. There are double leather reinforcements on areas that would be exposed to abrasion in a crash situation (palm, side of hand, fingers), as well as silicone reinforcement grips on the palm, index and middle finger. Colour options include: black, and black, white and red. Info: www.nevis.uk.com / 01425 478936
Alpinestars Stadium shoes RRP: £129.99
This street-styled riding shoe is CE certified and incorporates ankle protection; cooling comfort features include 3D mesh lining and perforated panels throughout. There’s soft padding in the ankle and tongue for improved comfort and fit and they fasten with laces. There’s an internal toe box and heel counter for support and a reinforced midsole for improved strength. Reflective detailing on the heel improves rider visibility. Available in US sizes 6-14. Info: www.alpinestars.com
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TSUMA textile motorcycle jacket £109.99
The shell of the TSUMA jacket is made from 600DN POLY TECH and has CE approved, height-adjustable armour on the shoulders, elbows and forearms. Scotchlite and Vision Tech reflective panels are featured throughout for increased visibility. All zips are YKK with rubber pull tags and the ones on the chest airintake vents have a press stud strap to stop them flapping about. The jacket has a Dry Tech membrane and Thermoline removable liner – which make it waterproof and warm. There’s a detachable, draw-strung adjustable hood, which is attached by press studs on the inside below the stand up, fleece-lined collar. Adjustability is provided by Velcro straps at the hem and press studs for the upper sleeve. Two waterproof hand-warmer pockets are provided and inside there’s a waterproof wallet pocket and smartphone pockets in both the Thermoline liner and the fixed mesh lining with routing for head-set cables. Chest and back protectors can be added and there’s a connecting zip for trousers. Available in sizes S-3XL and priced at £109.99. Info: www.tri-motive.com / 01792 578500
Ratchet and bit set £30.34
This ratchet and bit set from Laser Tools (part number 6027) contains 10 bits, all stored in a dispenser unit that clips on to your belt, a ratchet manufactured from chrome vanadium and a quick-chuck extension bit holder for use with a cordless drill. The bits included are manufactured from S2 steel: flat 4.0mm and 4.5mm, Pz1 and Pz2, hex bits 3, 4, 5 and 6mm, and two Star bits: T30 and T40. Info: www.lasertools.co.uk / 01926 815000
NEW METAL A closer look at the latest machines due in the showrooms soon…
SportylookfortheVivacity
Peugeot’s Vivacity 125 scooter is now available in a sporty RS specification. In RS trim the Vivacity comes with ‘mad grey’ bodywork, 12in black alloy tri-spoke wheels with machined rims and matching black front fork legs. The silencer gets a chrome cover, the dual-texture sport seat has contrasting grey stitching, and the rear passenger grab rail is black aluminium. The Vivacity has two luggage compartments; beneath the dual seat is a 22-litre storage bay, large enough for a full-face helmet; and behind the front bodywork is an additional 13-litre compartment, with space for an open-face helmet. There’s even a 12v power output for charging gadgets. A modern four-stroke engine delivers excellent fuel economy and a 7.5-litre fuel tank gives plenty of range. The Vivacity 125 RS sells for £1899 OTR and is covered by a 24-month unlimited mileage manufacturer’s warranty. Info: peugeotscooters.co.uk / 01202 810100.
Quadro4 arrives
We reported on the Quadro 350S in T&G 103, and a four-wheel version now hits our shores; it adopts the HTS system and takes handling, grip and safety to new heights. The bike boasts a low kerb weight and compact dimensions with linear-predictable handling characteristics. Using the tilting lock lever, QUADRO4 may be parked on any surface type. The lever can be activated separately from the scooter’s brakes. Activating it locks the HTS, so the scooter can be easily moved. Like the Quadro3, the Quadro4 is equipped with a single-cylinder 346cc engine, providing 27hp at 7000rpm. The underseat storage compartment has a 12v socket and can accommodate two helmets. Another 12v socket is located inside the front storage compartment. A smaller storage compartment can be used for storing small objects and documents such as mobile phones and wallets. Info: www.quadrovehicles.com
Cruiser-inspiredMichigan Lexmoto has launched a new cruiser-inspired 125cc machine – the Michigan – priced at £1399.99. Built by the Zongshen factory (which has ties with Harley-Davidson and Piaggio) it’s powered by a four-stroke single-cylinder 125cc engine with a balancer shaft. Styling touches nod to the cruiser look and include footboards, non-symmetrical tank with stripe decals, and a top-mounted registration plate. It features a digital display and LED indicators and comes with a one-year warranty. Colour options include copper orange and gunmetal grey. Info: www.lexmoto.co.uk/dealers
Yamahagoesurban withtheNMAX125cc This was originally intended to be a news item on the new sporty NMAX urban commuter scooter, which Yamaha are about to launch on the market. However, as we were about to go to press we received an invitation to go along to the press launch in Portugal. So we sent Pete Henshaw along to test their new entry-level, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, four-stroke 125cc scooter, which Yamaha claims will achieve 129mpg. The scooter arrives in dealers at the end of June/beginning of July, but until then you can read more about it on page 56. Info: www.yamaha-motor.eu
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PRODUCT REVIEWS What’sMauwearing? Mau’s been trying out lots of new kit; here’s what he thinks of it
Shark Evoline 3 Hakka Subway 2 jacket 1 RRP: £220 upwards (dependent on helmet style) 2 RRP: £89.99
With my old Shark Evoline 3 helmet nearing the end of its workable life, the time eventually came around to replace it. The helmet had served me well over previous years, so what should I replace it with but another Evoline 3, of course; in this case the white/black/red Hakka version, which is part of Shark’s Discovery range. Obviously, there have been some improvements over the years, but the basics always were on a solid footing. Weighing-in at 1750g it is still a relative lightweight for its thermoplastic resin design. And one thing that has always sold it (for me at least) is its versatility of use. The semi-automatic‘Auto-up’system, which simultaneously unlocks both the visor and chin guard, means that it can quickly be converted from a full face to an open face – ideal for someone like me who often has to stop to either take pictures, or to talk to someone. It also offers the choice of riding styles and is still reasonably aerodynamic, even when being used in the open-face position. Either way, it’s double homologated in both closed and open positions. I normally wear contact lenses, but glasses wearers will be pleased to know that the helmet sports Shark’s‘easy fit’spec system. A range of accessories (or replacement items) are also available. The helmets comes with an outer‘total vision’visor and a UV-tinted inner – both of which are anti-scratch; there is also a quickrelease visor system. It also has a
quick-release, micro-lock buckle system, making it easy to put on, or take off. And if the internal lining needs a freshen-up, it can easily be removed and placed in a washing machine on a delicate or cold cycle (it’s recommended that you place it inside a washing net when doing this). The helmet is available in various sizes: XS (53/54 cm), S (55/56 cm), M (57/58 cm), L (59/60 cm), and XL (61/62 cm). Info: www.shark-helmets.com
Spada Prestige-Tech gloves 3 RRP: £49.95
Yes, I know we’re coming out of the winter riding period – which is the target area these Spada gloves are aimed at – but the good old British weather throws some curved balls at us on occasions, and it’s at times like this that gloves like the PrestigeTech WP are needed. They’re high-spec, feature-packed winter riding gloves which are a good value for their price. The outer shell construction is a mixture of 31% nylon and 69% leather, which is paired to an inner waterproof Hipora membrane insert (Spada claim that if you pour water into the glove insert, then you’ll see steam running out without their being any actual water leakage – I’ve not tried that, but feel free to do so yourself – just remember to dry the gloves out before using them). Between these inner and outer layers a Thinsulate thermal padding material is sandwiched to give the gloves their high degree of insulation.
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Riding at night, temperatures can drop sharply – and pretty quickly too – but the thermal properties these gloves provided, worked well for me. Another bonus for night riding was the reflective trim which provided welcome visual addition to my peace of mind. Sometimes bulky winter gloves can restrict hand and finger movement and therefore the feel of the bike’s controls – not a real problem with these ones (although I did find the glove’s thumbholes a little long for my own digits). So what other features do the gloves offer you? Well, they have an elasticated side wrist, a zipped gusset, a smooth covered knuckle, double cuff adjustment and precurved fingers. They are suitable for both male and female riders and they come in sizes S to XXL. There’s only one colour option available – black. Info: www.spadaclothing.co.uk
I’ve just got me a Subway – no, not one of those deliciously filled baguettes – but the jacket made by Oxford Products. It’s one of the items from their 2015‘Riderwear’range and is ideally suited to be used for commuting to and from work. The price also means it’s not going to break the bank, if you’re commuting on a budget. But that doesn’t mean that its features have been skimped on though; these include CE level protectors fitted to the shoulder, elbow and spine. There are also adjustment points on the arms, cuffs, collar, waist and hips, which meant that pretty quickly I had it tailored to my somewhat strange form like a fitted glove; this didn’t create any movement restrictions either and I could fully flex my arms and body without any problems. While we’re talking about fitting, there’s a jacket available to suit every shape and size, from S through to 5XL. Other features include a waterproof polyester outer (fitted with reflective components so you can be seen easier) and a removable thermal lining; a storm flap also covers the zipper, giving extra protection from the wind. This weather protection seemed to work on the first day of use, as the weather on my 200-mile round trip was a little windy, damp and inclement, but I was kept warm and dry inside the jacket. For added weather protection there’s also a connecting zip for
trouser bottoms, effectively turning it into a one-piece riding suit. One thing I particularly liked was the arrangement of the pockets – especially the internal mobile phone pocket with a transparent touchscreen cover. Three colour options are available: black, black/flouro, and black/red (my personal choice). All-in-all, the Subway is a good choice option, offering a good level of both comfort and features, at a price that won’t break the bank. Info: www.oxprod.com / 01993 862300