Twist & Go - November/December 2013 - Sample Edition

INCLUDING

317 BIKES & SCOOTERS RATED OR RIDDEN

SINNIS RETROSTAR

URBAN RIDING

SECRETS

Cool, stylish, only £1649

900 MILES, 8BHP

Get the most out of riding in town

Land’s End to John o’Groats on a small capacity bike

PERFORMANCE EYEWEAR What to look out for when buying protective eyewear

KISBEE

SPORTLINE

100cc

LAYERING UP

A PAIR OF‘TWISTA’ DRAGGIN JEANS WORTH

AROUND

How to stay warm and cosy

£199

IN OUR FREE-TO-ENTER COMPETITION*SEE INSIDE

*Competition closes Dec 19, 2013. Other conditions apply – see entry form

l Daelim Daystar

ALSO UP FOR GRABS A £75 ROCK OIL PACKAGE FOR THE BEST ‘ROCKIN’RIDE’

COOL DRY CLOTHING WORTH £70 FOR THE BEST READER’S LETTER

9 771471 050092

l

11 >

*£1599 special price offer until Oct 31, 2013

s ew vi re e ik b 10 s PINClu LUDING: Elmoto HR2 Generic Code X

No. 95 November/December 2013 £3.85

60mph 100mpg £1899*

WELCOME

Justaround thecorner...

After what has been one of the hottest summers on record here in the UK, what have we now got left to look forward to before the cold harsh reality of winter kicks in?

Well, you don’t have to look much further than the NEC in Birmingham to find an answer to that one. This year’s Motorcycle Live takes place between November 23 and December 1, 2013 and T&G will be there to see what’s coming to the UK in 2014, so why don’t you come along and join us.

Whether you need a new motorcycle, a new scooter, some new clothing, or even riding advice, there should be something at the show to interest everybody and it will be a great day out for the whole family. As a taster of what will be there, take a look at our news section – and if you can’t make it for any reason, then you need to see our next issue where we’ll treat you to a full coverage of the event.

Bearing in mind that the autumn weather cycle is now kicking in, now’s the time of year to offer you advice on not only riding in adverse weather conditions, but on what you should be wearing as well. So, if you need to venture out for any reason, take a look at our top tips on how you should go about doing that.

All of this isn’t to the detriment of our other normal test reports and urban riding advice, so don’t worry, there’s something for everybody in this issue. There’s also the opportunity for budding journalists among you to win goodies in our various competitions and giveways, don’t miss out; get your pen out and write to us now.

44 36

WHO’SWHO? MAU SPENCER

Has been riding bikes since aged 16 (well, younger actually, but we’ll say little about that).

He’s the founding editor of Classic Scooterist and has a foot in both camps – often leading to him being ribbed by his classic scooter riding buddies – he gives as good as he gets.

WAYNE TEMPEST

Wayne can normally be found working in our IT department, but we let him out on two wheels every now and then. He’s only been riding a couple of years, but what he lacks in riding experience, he more than makes up for in enthusiasm (plus we don’t have to pay him)!

4 www.twistngo.com

CARLI ANN SMITH

Carli has now been riding bikes for over a decade. She was always more into motorcycles and lorries instead of dolls when younger and started her love affair with two wheels with a DT125. She’s joined the T&G team with bags of enthusiasm. and is raring to go.

PETE HENSHAW

Specialises in riding small, slow bikes for very long distances. Pete doesn’t own a car and is happily dependent on two-wheel transport – anything powered by petrol, diesel, pedals or slight electrical assistance. He’s a sucker for anything eco friendly, or out of the norm.

IAN ‘IGGY’ GRAINGER

Some say‘The Ig’started riding scooters at the age of 15 and never stopped, although his mum still hopes one day he’ll grow up and get a ‘proper’bike – she’s likely to be disappointed.

He’s been a regular contributor to T&G and various bike and scooter magazines since 2003.

STEVE ROSE

Steve is the T&G publisher – in other words, Mau’s boss (which is part of the reason Mau has no hair)! Steve has been riding bikes of all shapes and sizes for many years. He (Steve, not Mau) also has a rather unhealthy obsession with anything Honda.

IN DETAIL

7 14 18 20 22 24 28 30 34 36 40 44

GOSSIP ’N’ GADGETS

Up-to-date news and product information

WHAT’S CARLI WEARING?

How are things shaping up?

PEUGEOT KISBEE 100

Does a 100cc scooter make any sense?

ELMOTO HR2

Does Elmoto’s latest creation offer e-bike credibility?

LEXMOTO ZSX 125

One of the funkiest Chinese motorcycles available

SINNIS RETROSTAR

A friendly looking, easily ridden 125cc bike

BIG WHEELS ALL THE WAY

KYMCO’s latest – the People One 125

GENERIC CODE X

Aggressive good looks

MARATHON PRO SUPERMOTARD

A raw and ready 125 for on- and off-road use

900 MILES, 8BHP

A cheap ’n’ cheerful way to ride from Land’s Ends to John o’ Groats

DAELIM DAYSTAR 250

An economical commuter, which corners naturally

ASK THE PROFESSIONALS

The secrets of urban riding are revealed

50 52 54 56 60 64 66 68 70 74 78 83

WHAT WE’VE BEEN READING...

A quick flick through the books we’ve read this month

I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE

Advice on choosing eyewear

TWOUP TIPS

Top tips for riding with friends

“LIKE RIDING A BIKE”

Getting back on two wheels

ADVERSE WEATHER RIDING

Our advice on what to watch out for in bad weather

JUNCTIONS & TRAFFIC LIGHTS

Our advice on getting through junctions and traffic lights safely

ADVERSE WEATHER RIDING

With the correct riding gear you could be braving the elements

THE IDIOT’S GUIDE TO TOURING

Mau takes a 600-mile trip and offers a few hints and tips

READERS’ LETTERS

Have your say on the topics you choose

DOROTHY’S DESTINY

Nathan Millward ends his 32,000mile trans-global ride

TOURED & TESTED

Readers tell us about their rides and adventures on two wheels

WHICH BIKE?

Our new and expanded guide to new scooters and motorcycles

ARE YOU A SUBSCRIBER? Get a copy of your favourite magazine before others!

See page 16 for details

Editor: Mau Spencer mspencer@mortons.co.uk Publisher: Steve Rose Contributors: Joe Dick, Pete Henshaw, Iggy, Mau, Nathan Millward, John Sharratt, Steve Rose, Carli Ann Smith, Wayne Tempest. Apologies to anyone we’ve forgotten.

Design:Charlotte Turnbull Reprographics: Simon Duncan Group production editor: Tim Hartley Divisional advertising manager: Sandra Fisher sfisher@mortons.co.uk Advertising: Zoe Thurling zthurling@mortons.co.uk 01507 524004 Subscription manager: Paul Deacon Circulation manager: Steve O’Hara Marketing manager: Charlotte Park Production manager: Craig Lamb Publishing director: Dan Savage Commercial director: Nigel Hole Associate director: Malc Wheeler Managing director: Brian Hill 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 £20 Europe: 6 issues £24 ROW: 6 issues £30 Archivist: Jane Skayman 01507 529423 jskayman@mortons.co.uk Subscription Full subscription rates (but see page 16 for offer): (12 months 12 issues, inc post and packing) – UK £23.10. Export rates are also available – see page 16 for more details. UK subscriptions are zero-rated for the purposes of Value Added Tax. Distribution COMAG, Tavistock Road, West Drayton, Middx 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 of the 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 (96): Published on Dec 18, 2013 EDITORIAL DEADLINE: Nov 15, 2013

Independent publisher since 1885

24

Member of the Professional Publishers' Association

Having trouble finding a copy of this magazine?

Why not Just Ask your local newsagent to reserve you a copy each month?

In association with

PRODUCTS Givi V47 topbox £229.01 (inc VAT)

The 47 litre capacity of the Givi V47 topbox allows storage of up to two modular helmets. Givi has given the V47 several technological advances such as a hinge system, that allows closure by pushing the lid, new gaskets to ensure a waterproof closure, and a new Security Lock system.

The V47 features angular reflectors that can be classic or smoked (in its Tech version). In addition to this, the replaceable lid panels are interchangeable. The hard case is armed with the Monokey system, patented by Givi, which allows the topbox to be opened and detached from its fixing plate by one key.

There are numerous optional accessories, such as the CV47 interchangeable lids in different colours, the E132 specific remote control, the T502 inner bag, the E135 stop light, or the E134 polyurethane backrest.

Info: www.givi.co.uk / 01327 706220

Andalusianantics

Here’s a quick update on the ongoing story of Steve Taylor whose charity ride to the Sierra Nevada Mountains was put on hold due to illness and a family bereavement.

Steve finally set off on his journey at the end of August, intending to ride his Yamaha scooter across the Sierra Nevada on the old goat tracks

(something that the TV programme Top Gear did recently – although they stopped at the barriers). He will send some superb photographs of him crossing the Pyrenees as well as The Sierra Nevada for a future issue; in the meantime, here’s a sneak preview of a couple of characters he met on the way...

Take a safety stand

Penalties for middle lane hogs From July this year, police now have the power to issue on the spot fines of £100 and three points for careless driving offences that previously would have gone to court.

Offences such as hogging the middle lane or using mobile phones while driving. Fixed penalties for speeding, motorway offences, neglect of traffic directions and pedestrian rights, load offences and all road offences will all be punishable with the £100 fine.

Middle lane hogs and those who use mobile phones on the move are arguably more likely to not notice the motorcycle filtering through lanes of traffic or about to overtake them.

Info: www.legislation.gov.uk

Improved safety on two wheels Bosch has developed motorcycle stability control (MSC), the first brake control system for motorcycles to ensure the best possible stability in all riding situations. It supports the biker during both braking and accelerating, and while riding straight as well as while cornering. The motorcycle’s handling – and thus all the pleasure of riding – remains unchanged. The system will be available on selected KTM models by the end of 2013.

Workshop overalls

£54 (inc VAT)

Wash/wipe cleaning system £ ask

The Visorcat system enables riders to clean and wipe the visor while on the bike. It harnesses the natural behaviour of the rider to use the left hand as a wiping device. The product provides a cleaning system, so that the wiping action becomes a cleaning and wiping action. It incorporates a reservoir for visor cleaning fluid, a highly absorbent sponge, and twin wiper blades in one simple unit that fits over the back of the glove.

The Visorcat comes with a pocket-sized bottle of cleaning fluid. A 250ml bottle and replacement sponges are available, and the sponges can be removed for rinsing.

Info: www.visorcat.com

10 www.twistngo.com

A brand-new product has been launched that could help save the lives of the many motorcyclists injured every year as well as making it easier for medical first responders to treat them.

The Emergency PAL Helmet Decal is a safety-first new product that facilitates the speedy treatment from medical staff in the event of an accident.

It transmits the rider’s essential information such as medical history and emergency contact details direct to any kind of mobile phone.

Knowing immediately whether the victim of an accident has any underlying medical conditions or special needs can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. Medical first responders are able to access vital information from the innovative Emergency PAL Decal via a number of channels, so no matter what kind of mobile device they are using, they will get relevant medical data to their fingertips quickly and easily.

Info: http://emergencypal.com

If you’re changing oily parts or simply walking around the garage, these Fuchs Silkolene workshop overalls will protect your clothes while looking professional. Featuring a large printed Fuchs Silkolene racing logo on the front and reverse with two smaller embroidered logos displayed on the sleeves, you’ll certainly stand out. Other features of this black onepiece include elasticated sleeve cuffs, a single hidden front zip, two side pockets and a collar. Available in chest sizes 38-46in.

Info: www.fuchslubricants.com / www.silkolene.com

PRODUCTS

BMWCEvolutionto enterproduction

C600 Sport helmet lock 69 euros plus shipping

Radikal has developed a special lock for the BMW C600 Sport. You can not only lock your scooter with it, but you can also secure your helmet in a safe place without wasting valuable loading space.

Fast and easy to mount – all hardware is included.

Info: www.motorcyclepartshornig.com/BMW-C-600-Sport

Bright idea £44.99 (inc VAT)

In issue 89, we ran a pre-production test on BMW’s C evolution scooter, which looks like it is finally going into production. At the recent Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW finally took the covers off its latest two-wheel offering.

The scooter produces a steady 15hp, but can produce a peak 47hp from its liquid-cooled electric motor and is electrically limited to a top speed of

Ride toWork Day competition winner 16-year-old Adam Hirst from Ossett, West Yorkshire won our recent ‘Ride to Work Day’ competition. We’ll be picking Adam up and taking him for a free CBT courtesy of the Get On campaign and Ridesafe of Bradford. Our excited young winner has also been kitted out with a Duchinni helmet, Milano Sport jacket and jeans plus a pair of Blytz Champion boots courtesy of the Key Collection.

We’ll let you know how he got on with his CBT in the next issue.

75mph. There are four modes: road, eco pro, sail and dynamic. Information will be provided to the rider on the large TFT colour display which displays current battery status, speed, average consumption and the remaining range in kilometres (taking into account the selected ride mode).

Price and availability are yet to be announced.

Info: www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk

New apps for learner riders

Driving Test Success has unveiled a range of apps for learner motorcyclists to download direct to their iOS, Android or Kindle to help them revise on the go for their test.

The apps contain all the official revision questions and answers suitable for those taking their test in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Users can sit through as many mock tests as they like, complete with interactive case study questions, to prepare for the official DSA test.

The apps, Theory Test, Hazard Perception and The Highway Code will help to fully prepare riders for their test.

Available for download now from www.theorytestapp.co.uk

Weise has introduced a lightweight waterproof high visibility jacket that will not only keep riders dry during autumn/winter, but will also increase their visibility as the nights draw in.

Designed to be worn over either leather or textile motorcycle clothing, the rain jacket has a mesh lining that’s easy to put on and remove. Its high collar has a brushed lining and an adjustable waist belt and pull-cord help the wearer create a windproof fit. In addition to two external pockets with Velcro closure, there’s an easy access pocket. Availability is from size S to 3XL. Info: www.thekeycollection.co.uk / 0117 971 9200

Be safe, be seen £14.99

This new compact foldable warning triangle from Oxford Products has been designed to fold up neatly into a compact size and comes with a drawstring bag so it can be fitted neatly under a bike seat. It has been approved to EN standard ECE-R27.

Info: www.oxprod.com / info@oxprod.com / 01993 862329

www.twistngo.com 11

A1 WE SAY:

PeugeotKisbee 100Sportline

100cc is a strange choice of engine size, but it can actually make sense; it’s cheaper ★★★★★ to run than a 125, faster than a fifty and still quite nippy – as we found out recently with this little Peugeot.

Cheap and cheerful with a nippy engine

18 www.twistngo.com

T

he new Peugeot Kisbee Sportline 100 is the latest addition to the French firm’s range. As the name suggests it’s the sportier version of the slightly cheaper Kisbee 100 and comes with a few extra goodies, like a larger 170mm wavy Shuricane front disc, red caliper, special edition seat, black forks and wheels. It also comes with paintwork and graphics inspired by the World Rally Championship cars.

As an introductory offer the Sportline costs £1599 (until October 30 when the price goes up to its usual SRP of £1899); the standard Kisbee 100 is £1499.

Peugeot dealer, Harpers of Cowley is bang opposite the gates of the iconic Mini factory in Oxford, but we all know that a scooter is much better at getting around a busy city than any small car will ever be, and 100cc offers enough power for most commuters.

The average commute is a distance of just 8.6 miles, if you live a few miles out of the city/town or in a rural area where public transport isn’t as frequent and roads aren’t as busy you might benefit from a bit more power than a 30mph moped, that’s where the Kisbee 100 comes in handy.

The Peugeot starts easily and sounds a bit meatier than most small capacity four-strokes – always a good thing in my book. Easing it out

into the early morning rush hour traffic I was quite surprised at how much extra oomph those extra few ccs gave the scooter as well. It’s got enough power to give you confidence and get you out of trouble if need be – which is more than can be said for a fifty. The Kisbee accelerates well up to 30mph, midrange is a bit flat but once it hits 40mph it’ll pick up speed again and you’ll see just under 60mph on the clock when it’s flat out.

That large front disc works well up front and the rear drum is good too, suspension is perfectly adequate and the budget Cheng Shin tyres were good enough, although we didn’t get to ride the scooter in the wet. In fact the handling and ride were all pretty respectable, so no complaints there.

A commuter scooter needs to be agile and slim enough to squeeze through traffic and nip into gaps, the Kisbee handles it all with ease, feet up filtering is a doddle and the extra power comes in handy for out accelerating cars from time to time, I’d go as far as to say that the engine is as powerful as some larger capacity Chinese 125s I’ve ridden.

Our test ride took in various types of road, from the city centre to outof-town dual carriageways where the Kisbee would sit at 55mph quite easily on the flat and nudge 59mph

occasionally. We covered over 50 miles and averaged around 112mpg in real world riding conditions – which is three times the fuel economy of the average family car.

Add into the equation the fact that it gets you there on time no matter how busy the roads are, costs just £17 a year to tax, has cheap insurance and comes with a two-year warranty and you’ll start to realise that a scooter makes much more sense than a car ever will. If you’re looking for stress free, fuss free ‘get you to work’ transport on a limited budget the Kisbee 100 is worth checking out.

As with most cheaper end scooters there are a couple of minor things to grumble about. The seat feels a tad hard after a couple of hours in the saddle, although most owners won’t be on the scooter for that long and I’d already ridden 120 miles before I picked the scooter up.

The hinge on the seat is a bit flimsy as well, you open it and it wobbles about a bit. The third point is the fuel filler, which comes with a surround to avoid splashing when you fill up, but makes it a bit tricky to get your hand in to undo the filler cap if it’s been put on too tightly.

Other than those slight issues you’re getting a decent enough runabout for not a lot of money and it comes from a name you’ve all heard of.

Words and images: Iggy

SPEC: ENGINE

100cc air-cooled, four-stroke BRAKES

Front disc Rear drum SUSPENSION

Hydraulic front forks Single rear shock WHEELS

12in alloys SEAT HEIGHT

735mm

WEIGHT

92kg

COLOURS

Red

CONTACT www.peugeotscooters.co.uk

PRICE £1599 (introductory offer)

PROS

112mpg Great brakes Nimble

CONS

Seat a bit hard Flimsy seat hinge Awkward fuel filler

www.twistngo.com 19

CHEAP ’N’ CHEERFUL

TRAVELLING

Oh yes, they’re smiling now…

900miles,8bhp Would you ride Land’s End to John o’Groats on a bike with less than 10bhp? It can be done, it’s cheap, and you could do it too.

N

owadays, 70bhp isn’t that hot in motorcycle terms – it encompasses stuff like Suzuki’s V-Strom 650 and the Honda Deauville. Most readers will know you don’t need even that sort of power to have fun, and to prove the point, a group of us rode from Land’s End to John o’ Groats on six bikes with less than 70bhp between them.

To make it interesting, all of them were cheap and elderly (bikes, not riders), the youngest being a mere 20 years old. In no particular order, there were three MZ two-strokes (two 150s and a mighty 250), an Enfield Robin diesel, a Honda C90 and a Yamaha Townmate. To make it interesting, we aimed to do the whole 900-odd miles in three days. We couldn’t use motorways, because Jack Ellis on the Townmate hasn’t passed his test yet.

DAY 1 327 MILES: START 7AM, FINISH 10PM

Heading off from Land’s End; only 900 miles to go

36 www.twistngo.com

Sunrise outside Land’s End youth hostel; time for a quick picture before leaving. We get stuck behind a horsebox on the road to Helston; this won’t be happening often – one advantage of riding this slow is that you often have a clear road in front, with all traffic behind…

Wilderhope Manor youth hostel is a true stately pile

Bikes didn’t need much fuel – but riders did

Always carry an umbrella

Conflab, somewhere in Scotland A6 cafe stop

Raven Cafe – buy a cuppa first

The most direct route east is the A30; mostly fast dual carriageway, so we seek out quieter A- and B-roads that are more fun. We can’t avoid the main road over Bodmin Moor, and a pecking order emerges. Keiran’s TS250 rocketed off , while Phil Speakman’s ES150 is proving quicker than the nominally more powerful TS150. The Townmate clearly had legs over the C90, thanks to an extra gear (four, not three) while the Enfield diesel just plods along in top regardless of the terrain.

After Launceston, we leave the current A30 (and a fear of being rear-ended) for the old one, now a quiet and twisty single-carriageway to Okehampton. The other side of Okie, we have our first mechanical problem when Hume’s C90 gets stuck in top gear at a red light. He manages to free it, and we’re away; is this a bad omen?

The downgraded A30 gets us to Exeter and then it’s north up the Exe Valley, a brilliant biker road twisting its way alongside the river. We’re settling into a 45-50mph cruise, which is about what the slowest bikes (TS150 and C90) can manage.

The Somerset levels are oddly named (the A361 isn’t level). The topography’s flat, but the road dips and troughs where the Tarmac has sunk. We make it to Glastonbury without becoming mired, but see no more than its bypass – same with the cathedral city of Wells.

We’ve got the Mendips to climb. Compared to the Alps, these are like a dwarf’s rockery, but they seem daunting.

On the Enfield, this means third gear and a steady 28mph while Jack and the Townmate burn past. We all make it over the top. The shortest route north now would be through Bristol and over the Severn Bridge by motorway… which we can’t do (we later discover that mopeds are allowed on the old bridge’s cycle lane, so at a pinch Jack could have done that). Ride leader Roger has worked out an alternative, and despite the combined effect of rush hour and Badminton Horse Trials, we make it over the Cotswolds. By now Hume is finding it difficult to keep up on his C90, which also has a nasty

habit of pogoing its way through mid-corner bumps. He’s ready to throw in the towel, but the rest of us convince him to carry on.

It’s a relief to get off the main A46 and drop off the Cotswolds with a panoramic view of the Severn Estuary.

We join the A38 and its endless traffic lights. Red lights aren’t a big deal on a big bike (or even one of the perkier auto 125s), but for us it means losing momentum.

The sun’s almost set by the time we reach the A49 and there’s a possibility the hostel might close before we arrive. Just time for tea and chips, then find our way through miles of pitch black lanes to the hostel. This is complicated by a sick alternator on Roger’s TS, so he tucks-in behind me, pilot light glimmering. But we make it, after 327 miles and 15 hours on the road.

DAY 2 286 MILES: START 7.15AM, FINISH 8.20PM We start too early for breakfast, but the dawn chorus makes up for it. Hume has decided to carry on at his own pace, so he waves the rest of us off from Wilderhope Manor (the youth hostel is an old stately pile). Soon we’re through Shrewsbury and cruising flatter Cheshire, upping the cruising speed to 50-55mph and stopping for brekkie at Lynn’s Raven Truck Stop.

When they hear we’re raising funds for the British Red Cross, they hand over a £20 note.

Because we can’t use the M6 we navigate through urban Lancashire and I’m nominated to lead. It’s tricky, because the signs try and funnel us on to the motorway, and it’s easy to get split up by red lights. We avoid both and hook up with Phil, who’d nipped home for the night.

The traffic’s terrible through Lancaster and Kendal, and I’m wishing the Enfield had an auto, instead of a sticky, old-time gearbox. But things improve as we climb away from Kendal on a lovely stretch of A6 that curves and swoops to the top of Shap Fell and our 30-40mph climb gives more time to enjoy it.

www.twistngo.com 37

BACK INTO BIKING

“It’slikeridingabike…”

Taking a break from biking is something that happens to the majority of us at some point.Whether it’s family circumstances, health, or money that prevents you from getting out on two wheels, getting back on can sometimes be a daunting prospect, but it doesn’t have to be like that...

Y

our bike test seems like a lifetime ago and you struggle to remember the basics and it might have been months (or years) since you were last aboard a bike. You might feel you can’t remember how to ride, or that your skills aren’t at the level you want them to be before jumping back on.

When asking friends, their answer might be to simply go out, buy a bike and get straight back on; however if you don’t feel confident then don’t panic. It’s better to be safe than rush to get back in the seat in order not to lose face. It’s natural to want a refresher before heading off on to the open road by yourself and the number of road users is always increasing so it’s a good idea

56 www.twistngo.com

There are a number of ways you can get back into the swing by refreshing your skills and building your confidence back up on two wheels and some are less expensive than you may think. We’ve done the hard work for you and pulled together our best tips for getting you back into the saddle:

list the exact course that you want from their websites, or that it isn’t listed as one of their services. If you call up and explain your situation it’s possible they might come up with a customised dedicated course for you.

This is down to each individual riding school and some may be more receptive than others, but don’t be afraid to ask – after all, they’ll be happy to help someone get back on a bike. If you’ve still got your instructor’s contact details, simply get in touch.

ASK FOR REFRESHER LESSONS AT YOUR TRAINING SCHOOL £££££

GET SOME HELP FROM PROFESSIONALS £££££

to be clued up on the latest rules and regulations and armed with the best skills to keep you safe.

WHERE DO YOU START?

Most riding schools will be happy to welcome you back for some refresher training. Don’t be put off if they don’t

Organisations like the Institute of Advanced Motorists and BikeSafe offer a number of courses for riders

CASE STUDY: “I did it…”

THE RIDER….

Kelly Ventham, North Lincolnshire “I’ve always loved motorcycles and wanted to pass my test, I finally took the plunge when I was 23. I loved riding, the independence and thrill that being out on the open road brings. I didn’t want to give up my bike but unfortunately a divorce meant that I had to. I haven’t ridden for over seven years and have since had two gorgeous children, I would love to get another bike again; but I was at a total loss as to where to start!

which will improve skills, knowledge and hazard awareness, making riding safer and more enjoyable. Take a look at their websites for more information on their specific courses. They’re also out and about at various events throughout the year, so be sure to check their event calendars. Chat through your situation with their stand staff who’ll be more than happy to help.

VISIT EVENTS AND DEALERSHIPS £££££

There are hundreds of biking-related events dotted around the country, from a local bike night or a national show. Take a trip and the opportunity to talk to fellow motorcyclists. Depending how long ago it was since you were on the road, things could have changed an awful lot, so it’s worth talking to people who are out on two wheels now to see what these changes are and how they deal with them.

Why not visit your local motorcycle dealer/s? Their salesmen are there to sell bikes, but are also on hand to provide information and point you towards the best bike for you and your needs; so make the most of their advice and take the chance to sit on a few machines and get comfortable around them again.

“In my head I was really excited and had an urge to get back on the bike but knew I shouldn’t be naive to it and couldn’t just simply jump back on. Plus now that I have two children, I’m extra cautious about things. I still had my old instructor’s number so gave him a ring to see if he could help. I knew once I heard his voice in my ear that would make everything okay and everything would come flooding back.

“I must admit for the first half-hour of the refresher training I was really nervous and had to keep reminding myself that I’ve done all this before and most importantly‘keep breathing!’for some reason when I was concentrating I found myself holding my breath – not ideal! But once I’d relaxed it wasn’t long before I was itching to get out on the road and gain some speed.

“I’m now contemplating downsizing my car and buying a bike to keep riding and keep my skills up. My best piece of advice? Get back on in a safe and controlled environment where the bike is fully insured and you have the support of a qualified instructor to hand. I can’t wait to get back out now!”

RESEARCH, READ AND LEARN £££££

Have a look at the wealth of information online, you definitely aren’t the only one trying to get back into biking so it’s likely you might come across someone who has done it already. It’s easy to become slightly overwhelmed by all the information though, so take everything with a pinch of salt.

Everyone is different and only you know the right plan of action for you.

USEFUL INFORMATION PHONE A FRIEND £££££

A problem shared is a problem halved. So why not ring a friend and tell them what you’re up to? If they’re a rider they might offer to accompany you the first time you venture out.

Biking is a very social activity so you may as well start as you mean to go on – with friends. Don’t have any friends who ride? Don’t panic, even sharing your plans with non-rider will give you someone to discuss your adventures with!

IAM – Institute of Advanced Motorists is the UK’s leading road safety charity www.iam.org.uk BikeSafe – a police led motorcycle project www.bikesafe.co.uk Sleeping licence holder – An individual with their motorcycle licence who isn’t actively riding bikes

THE INSTRUCTOR….

Gez Sembiante, GP Training “We have a good number of ex-pupils who want to take a refresher course. We start off on a safe area to go through clutch control, balance, gears and braking which gives confidence to go back out on the open road. We encourage extra lessons because you never stop learning and you can always take it to the

next level. Our aim is to make the rider feel that they can make the bike do exactly what they want to. When a rider hasn’t been on a bike in a while it might seem that the bike wants to do its own thing so we identify the pupil’s needs and then give them advice and reassurance. It’s fine tuning their skills and refreshing them.”

www.twistngo.com 57

READERS’ FREE ADS APRiLiA MOJiTO

125cc, excellent condition, 12 mths’ MoT, 11 mths’ tax, black, 3,470 miles, £900 ono Tel. Andy 07948 373206. W Mids

HONDA XL125 V TWiN

black, 08 reg, tax, MoT, immac, 3,615 miles, 90+ mpg at 65mph, old mans toy, £2200 no offers.

Tel. 01263 512433 after 6pm.

Norfolk

KTM DUKE 125

2012, Learner Legal, exc cond, 1200 miles only, full KTM s/h, always garaged and looked after, KTM extras. Tel. 07890 704108. Lanarks.

PiAGGiO SCOOTER T5 125

1997 (R), engine size 124cc, colour grey, exc cond, 13,500 miles, no MoT/tax, £2500; open to reasonable offers. Tel. 07740 873046. Derbys.

SYM JOYRiDE 200

Ideal commuter, low seat, l/weight, weather protection, 90mpg, 75mph, datatagged, 3000 kms, t&t, bargain £650.

Tel. 01748 818945. Yorks

VESPA PX 125

2007, low mileage, tax Jun 14, King/Queen seat and backrest, Florida c/bars and f/chrome bumper, inspection welcome.

Tel. 07976 236110. Hartlepool.

APRiLiA SR MAX 300i

First reg Sept 2012, black/red, 2,600 miles, 12 mth’s MoT, warranty as new, £2599 Tel. 01406 425713. Lincs

iTOM ASTOR

1960s to finish rest, 4 sp foot change, gears, no docs, too many projects to complete, £1500 ono.

Tel. 01724 864220. Lincs.

MZ TS250

4-speed, 23k, red, t&t, unrestored cond, starts easily, runs fine, Haynes manual and manufacturer’s manual, £395 no offers. 01824 707571. N Wales

SUZUKi GT 135

Good cond, starts first time, tank s/panels, tail section have ideal to restore to concours cond, orig owners handbook, £1200. 01505 321068. Renfrews

SYM XS125K

black, 2009, good cond, new rear tyre and chain, two female owners, approx 14k miles, currently on Sorn, £695 ono. Tel. 01209 212034. Cornwall.

WK 125 SC EFi SCOOTER

Fully auto 125 Twist & Go, exc cond, 2011 with only 1,088 miles, was £1695 new, bargain at £895 ono. Tel. 07549 340643.

Gtr Man.

102 www.twistngo.com

CPi BRAVO 50

mature owner, 5,000 miles, with top box, £600 ono Tel. 07746 224849. W Yorks

KAWASAKi KX85

Bigwheel, 100cc kit fitted, dep pipe, other bling fitted, v clean honest bike, wants for nothing, ready to race or hoon around on. £795. Tel. 07734 580401. Surrey.

MZ TS250/1

5 speed, 1973, taxed May 14, MoT Jun 14, p/coated frame, pile of spares, £450 sidecar too for an extra £50.

Tel. 07709 557294. Fife.

SUZUKi RV125 K3

VanVan, 2003, 9,500 miles, Long MoT, Sorned, £995 Tel. 07816 530972. Glam

VESPA GTS 250iE

60 plate (2010), 250cc petrol, 900km (550 miles), silver, s/h, all books present, taxed, no MOT needed.

Tel. 07814 650705. So’ton

YAMAHA CYGNUS X 125

2010, taxed and tested, 1500 miles, fabulous condition, lady owner, £1300 Tel. 01684 296394. Glos

GiLERA RUNNER FXR 180

2 stroke, X, 2000, t&t, std engine with Scorpion exhaust, 12k, neat cond, good runner, v reliable, ono. Tel. 07869 123574. Hamps

KAWASAKi Z250 LTD

14k miles, full MoT, serviced and in excellent condition throughout, £1000. Tel. 01923 461289.

Herts

PEUGEOT 206 TKR WRC

49cc scooter, 2004, 8k, unrestricted, 6 mths’ MoT & tax, gc, spare max speed exhaust, drive belt, restrictor kit, £450 ono.

Tel. 07808 786778. Stirlingshire.

SUZUKi VANVAN 125

04 plate, v reliable, 5 months’ MoT, 10 mths’ tax, new chain and sprockets, new r/brake shoes, tyres good, just serviced, £950. Tel. 01380 818594. Wilts.

VESPA LX

2011, 125cc, nice looking clean scooter, blue, runs very well, £1150 ono Tel. 07831 589763.

Essex

YAMAHA MAJESTY 125

2002, silver, 19k miles, vgc, garaged, 9 months’ MoT and tax, bargain, £700 Tel. 07759 750113 after 6pm. Scottish borders.

HONDA iNTEGRA NC700

Two options: pannier box and mounting £6500; without £5850; lowered by 40mm by Honda; warranty till Jul 14, tax, less than 2k. 07828 118464. So’ton.

KTM DUKE 125

2012, 3,380 miles. Extras: Handguards, R&G tail tidy, R&G crash bobbins, tank pad, £2800.

Tel. 07791 543164. W Yorks

PiAGGiO H20 50

Sport, one lady owner, 3k miles, tax and MoT one year, excellent condition, £645 Tel. 01753 869566. Berks

SYM 300 GTS

Feb 12 taxed, first class cond, new belt pads, one of the best tourers, 70-80mph, one owner, 14k, £2800 ono. Tel. 07716 574562. Merseyside.

VESPA LX 125

55 reg, under 2k, t&t , exc cond, top box, full s/h, one owner, rubber weatherboard. Tel. 07808 925930. Herts/Beds border

YAMAHA T-MAX XP500

2004/04, black, 29,400 miles, Givi top box takes 2 helmets, MoT Jun 14, tax 04/14, one owner, s/h, £2000. Tel. 0208 3914385; 07956 881372. Surrey.