Twist & Go - Nov/Dec 2015 - Preview

2ND HAND GUIDE

TIPS TO BUYING PRE-OWNED

YAMAHA NMAX 125 FOR NMAX-IMUM ENJOYMENT

433

BIKES & SCOOTERS RATED OR RIDDEN

TOP 10

SLOW RIDIN G SURVIVAL TIPS

SCUTUM SO2 ELECTRIC

WILL IT CHANGE OUR OPINION OF E-BIKES?

MOOOF-ING INTO THE UK

GETS A NEW 400 ENGINE

BELGIAN COMPANY SHAKES UP COMMUTING MARKET BAG YOURSELF AN OXFORD XB25

WORTH AROUND £50!

For our best reader’s letter – see page 68

No. 107 November/December 2015 £4.10

PEUGEOT SATELIS

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www.twistngo.com 3

WELCOME

32 WHO’S WHO? MAU SPENCER Heading up the T&G team, Editor Mau has been riding bikes since he was 16.

He’s also the founding editor of Classic Scooterist magazine – often leading to him being ribbed by his scooter-riding buddies – he gives as good as he gets.

PETE HENSHAW 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 specialises in riding small, slow bikes for very long distances. He’s also a sucker for anything eco-friendly or out of the norm.

IAN ‘IGGY’ GRAINGER Iggy has been riding scooters ever since he was 15 years old. He has been contributing articles to T&G and other bike magazines since 2003. He’s just tested the new Genata CR 125. See his report on page 36.

STEVE O’HARA We’ve finally gotten our circulation manager, Steve O Hara, out on two wheels – he was so eager to go that he forgot to have a shave before he went – we promise to buy him a razor before we send him out again.

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Settling-in for winter In the week I was writing this column, there were two specific natural events that occurred – the super moon eclipse and the autumn equinox (where day and night are equal). As well as making it a week to remember, the latter one I mentioned – the autumn equinox – is the signal of the onset of cold winter days and nights – it’s time to break out the winter clothing and to give your bike a winter checkover.

I’m sure many of you don’t see it this way, but I'm spoilt by the large amount of riding clothing at my disposal. The problem here is that I tend to be a bit disorganised and over the course of the year, whenever I’ve had a new jacket to test during the summer months, the first fi rst thing I’ve always done is remove the inner lining, as they aren’t always necessary. But now that winter has arrived, it’s time to put them all back where they belong – in the jackets they came out of. So for me, this meant spending an evening sitting down with all the jackets and linings to work out which lining belonged with which jacket – I couldn’t

believe how long it took me. I think I’ve solved the problem now, but if you see me riding and I look a bit misshapen, that’s the reason why (well, that’s my excuse anyway).

Inside this issue you’ll find a wealth of information on some of the new machines on sale, as well as updates on the latest products, and, of course, the latest news – and on that subject, we’ve just appointed a new staff writer who should be with us shortly – we’ll introduce him to you in the next issue.

60

IN DETAIL

6

GOSSIP ‘N’ GADGETS

16

PRODUCT REVIEWS

19 20 26 30 32 36

Up-to-date news and product information A closer look at some of the latest goodies

NEW METAL

What’s new for 2015?

MOOOF-ING WITH THE TIMES

44 48 52 56

JUNAK VINTAGE 50

The Polish arrive in the UK market

THE SATELIS 400

The big Peugeot gets a new engine

SINNIS SHUTTLE 125

Does it hit the mark?

THE VESPA GTS – 10 YRS ON

Mau reflects on the scooter that has broken down barriers

58

The pros and cons of commuting on a trail bike

THE YAMAHA NMAX 125

60

Our top tips on how to make it a stress-free event

LEXMOTO VENOM 125

64

Belgian company relaunches into the UK with a brand for each commuter market segment A ‘sporty urban’ scooter for the commuter market The bike with the built-in MP3

SCUTUM S02 ELECTRIC

Changing the way we view e-bikes

GENATA CR 125

Iggy conducts our first road test on the new motorcycle brand

38

Pete Henshaw takes a look at SYM’s maxi scooter

41

A variation on a familiar Honda-based theme

JOYMAX 300

KEEWAY RK125

66

TRAIL OR TRAFFIC

BUYING SECOND-HAND

ADDRESSING THE CBT

Steve O’Hara finally gets onto two wheels

TOP 10 SURVIVAL TIPS

Welcome to the world of controlled slow riding

68 87

MAILBOX

94

SALES AND WANTS

Editor: Mau Spencer mspencer@mortons.co.uk Publisher: Steve Rose Contributors: Iggy, Pete Henshaw, Steve O’Hara, Mau, Carli Ann Smith. Apologies to anyone we’ve forgotten.

Design: Fran Lovely Reprographics: Paul Fincham, Jonathan Schofield Divisional advertising manager: Martin Freeman mfreeman@mortons.co.uk 01507 529538 Advertising: Zoe Thurling zthurling@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 42 for offer): (12 months 12 issues, inc post and packing) – UK £24.60.

Export rates are also available – see page 42 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

Readers voice their opinions

WHICH BIKE?

Our expanded guide to new scooters and motorcycles Find what you’re looking for in our classified section

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

See page 42 for details

© 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 (108): Published on December 16, 2015 EDITORIAL DEADLINE: November 9, 2015

48

Having trouble finding a copy of this magazine?

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

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NEWS Peugeot lock sets £ ask

The new lock sets are available for the Kisbee, Speedfight 3, and Vivacity 3. They are supplied with ignition barrel lock, underseat storage lock, and two keys. These lock sets offer an easy way for owners who’ve lost keys or had their scooter stolen and recovered to replace their existing lock set with the minimum of fuss.

Info: www.ve-uk.com

Latest industry figures (Information supplied by the MCIA)

JUNE 2015 & YEAR TO DATE COMPARISONS BY ENGINE BAND Aug 2015

Aug 2014

% Change

Aug 2015 YTD

Aug 2014 YTD

% Change

0-50cc

821

946

-13.2%

6,143

6,924

-11.3%

51-125cc

3,581

3,204

11.8%

29,087

25,443

14.3%

126-650cc

980

847

15.7%

11,405

9,771

16.7%

651-1000cc

1,494

1,081

38.2%

18,732

14,727

27.2%

Over 1000cc

1,075

902

19.2%

14,822

13,995

5.9%

6,980

13.9%

80,189

70,860

13.2%

TOTAL REGISTRATIONS 7,951

HIGHEST REGISTERING MODEL IN ENGINE BAND

MAJOR BRAND SALES

Direct Bikes DB 50 QT-11

58

Honda

1,228

Kawasaki

374

Outdoor bike cover £79.99

0-50cc 51-125cc

Honda CB 125 F

184

Yamaha

1,030

Piaggio

332

126-650cc

Kawasaki ER 6F

39

Lexmoto 644

BMW

301

The Protech stretch outdoor bike cover is made from a three-layer material to provide protection against the weather or light knocks. It is ventilated to reduce condensation and has waterresistant seams; there’s also an elasticated belly strap to keep it in place. Positional holes facilitate lock use and the cover also incorporates front/rear‘lock pouches’(to keep your padlocks off the ground). It is also fitted with clear window panel for the mounting of a solar powered charging unit.

Info: www.oxprod.com / 01993 862300

651-1000cc

Yamaha MT-09 TRACER

92

Suzuki

H-Davidson 292

Over 1000cc

BMW R 1200 GS ADVENTURE

63

Triumph 474

Piaggio’s corporate identity upgrade gets started Downend Bikes and Scooters, based in Bristol, has become the first Piaggio dealership to get the new look treatment. The refurbishment includes features such as new furniture plus Piaggio/Vespabranded wall hangings. Next on the rebrand list will be the renamed Liverpool Piaggio.

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476

KTM

258

UK PTW BACKGROUND INFORMATION (Dept for Transport figures) Motorcycles in use

Rider test passes

Distance travelled by bike

2011

1.2 million

2011/12

39,900

2011

2.9 billion miles

2012

1.2 million

2012/13

44,900

2012

2.8 billion miles

2013

1.2 million

2013/14

30,500

2013

2.7 billion miles

2014

1.2 million

2014/15

34,600

2014

2.8 billion miles

Motorcycle ‘dash cam’ launched The fitting of dash cams to cars has increased significantly over the past few years and has helped in determining who has been at fault in the event of an accident.

Now it’s possible for bike riders to do the same as dash cam manufacturer Nextbase has just launched a bike-dedicated unit called the Ride.

With 1080p HD quality footage, the Ride will go a long way towards understanding what really happened in the event of an incident.

Using the universal ram mounting system, and being built to be straightforward for bikers to fit themselves, the Ride could turn out to be a huge hit with UK bikers.

Nextbase director Richard Browning said: “Dash cams have taken the motoring world by storm, but bikers haven’t been served by the dash cam market, until now. Now that the Ride has arrived, motorcyclists are able to have a dash cam that is always recording the road ahead, never runs out of battery, and locks away footage when it detects specific motions recognised as being an incident.

“The number of motorcyclists involved in accidents that could have been avoided is very high, so we hope that by capturing the footage of incidents, bikers, the police, insurers and local authorities can see exactly what happened and take the appropriate action”.

The Nextbase Ride is available for £249.99 from www.halfords.com or at selected UK Halfords stores.

LOW COST INSURANCE

0845 600 1664 | lexhaminsurance.co.uk

Authorised & Regulated by the FCA

SHOW US YOUR SHOEI CONTEST IS BACK!

Shoei is running its annual competition where you can bag yourself a Shoei helmet of your choice. All you need to do is take a wacky, funny, creative photo of yourself wearing the helmet or using the helmet in an interesting way and upload it to the Shoei

Assured website and the winner will be picked on November 16, 2015. There are five runnersup prizes of Shoei goodie bags including exclusive items not available to buy!

Info: www.shoeiassured.co.uk/ show-us-your-shoei.php

Duchinni D606 flip front helmet £89.99 (incl VAT) Duchinni’ s new D606 flip front helmet offers a choice for budget-conscious commuters and tourers alike. In addition to an anti-scratch visor there’s an internal flip-down sun visor.

Vents to top and chin bar work with a rear exhaust vent to

channel air through the EPS liner to keep the head cool. The textile lining is also fully removable and washable.

The helmet comes in sizes XS to XL in plain white or black.

Info: 0117 971 9200 / www.thekeycollection.co.uk

Yamaha MT-15 super naked spied during testing Our sibling media service, MoreBikes.co.uk has uncovered pictures of this secret prototype bike – a Yamaha pre-production 150 naked with quality suspension and featuring new chassis parts.

The bike, being called the MT-15, has been spotted going through final road testing programmes abroad and looks likely to be part of the Yamaha Asian-marke Asian-market roster for 2016.

It seems tha unlikely that the bike wil will be available in Europe though.

Scrap your post-98 licence counterpart The DVLA is recommending that riders and drivers destroy their licence paper counterparts as they no longer carry any legal status.

An online service now shows a driver’s record – including offences and endorsements – replacing the paper counterpart.

The information can be accessed via the DVLA driver record system and be checked online here: www.viewdrivingrecord. service.gov.uk/driving-record/ licence-number or in writing by post.

Paper driving licences issued before the photo card was introduced in 1998 will remain valid and should not be destroyed. If you need to update any details on there or renew your licence, you will be issued with a photo card only.

The new system has however caused some confusion.

AA president Edmund King said: “The possibility of teething problems is a concern. While most users will be happy to see the back of the counterpart, there is widespread confusion as to what people should now do to ensure they stay within the law and what documentation will be required at the rental check-in desk.”

Sarah Sillars, the IAM’s chief executive officer, said: “People

HOW DO YOU PROVE YOU HAVE A CLEAN LICENCE…

You photo card or paper licence will not be enough any more. You should access the DVLA’s Sharing Driving Licence service for this – which can be accessed here: www.viewdrivingrecord.service. gov.uk/driving-record/ licence-number .

You’ll be expected to access the details yourself and print them off for submission – alternatively, you can call the DVLA and give a ‘third party permission’ to check your driving record verbally. are not aware of how many of the current procedures are changing. Similar to the abolition of the tax disc, they assume much of what has happened before will continue. The onus is very much on the individual to obtain the information they need beforehand. So we very much hope that people are not caught unawares.”

Steve Jollands, general manager for Lincoln HarleyDavidson, said: “To be honest, we’re scratching our heads as to what we need to do when people come in for a test ride. I’ve still got an old paper licence – that’s how behind the times I am!

“I know we need to go online and check them but the changes

haven’t been made clear – it’s a case of going out there and looking for the information yourself.”

For more information, check out www.gov.uk/dvla/ nomorecounterpart

FAQs IF YOU GET POINTS – WHAT HAPPENS THEN?

When you surrender your driving licence to a court in the event of an endorsement, they will take your photo card; if you include the paper counterpart with your submission, the photo card will be returned but the counterpart will not. You will be expected to pay your fine in the normal way.

I WANT TO TAKE A TEST RIDE/ HIRE A BIKE – WHAT DO I NEED TO TAKE IN WITH ME NOW?

We’d suggest phoning ahead to double check what documentation they need/want, so that you’re not disappointed when you get there. Another option is to obtain a special code from www. gov.uk which allows the firm to access your record for 72 hours to make the necessary checks.

I’VE GOT A PAPER LICENCE FROM YEARS AGO – SHALL I RIP IT UP?

No. If you have a paper driving licence which was issued before the photo card was introduced, it will remain valid and shouldn’t be destroyed.

www.twistngo.com 7

NEWS

Water off a ducks back Bull-it Jeans has relaunched its range of motorcycling jeans with a new water repellent finish. The new fabric treatment has been tested repeatedly on long ride-outs and in short storms. The water repellent should last for up to eight to 10 washes and Bull-it Jeans offers both a neutral pH wash-in cleaner and a heat cure wash-in re-proofer.

All Bull-it Jeans have been tested using CE-13595-2 to determine the abrasion resistance, or as Bull-it Jeans call it a ‘Slide Rating’ – SR. Info: www.bull-it.com

LOW COST INSURANCE

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Authorised & Regulated by the FCA

Maintain your Yamaha 125 Do you own a Yamaha MT-125 or YZF-R1i2 sold between 2014 and 2015? Or a WR125R or WR125X sold between 2009 and 2015? If so – and you are pretty hands-on with maintenance – then this could be of interest to you, because Haynes Publishing have just released a new manual on the subject of these bikes.

The manual (Haynes no.6009) is available from any good motorcycle outlet, or on line at www.haynes.co.uk

Bike and helmet off from WK WK Bikes has reintroduced its helmet and jacket offer.

This means you can buy any vehicle in the WK range and get a free helmet and jacket worth £169. Along with great autumn sale prices starting from £699 for a scooter and £899 for motorcycles, WK offers a great value package. WK Bikes has

new releases which include the SM125, ZS125 and Café Racer 125. All come with a one year parts and labour warranty. With over 20 bikes in the WK Bikes range, they are market leading in both variety and style, including the Gary Johnson Isle of Man TT replica 125 Sport.

Info: www.wkbikes.com

Riding opportunities at Motorcycle Live The cold weather might mean the end of the summer riding, but for many bike fans, the silver lining is Motorcycle Live.

The show opens at The NEC, Birmingham, on Saturday, November 28, 2015, and runs for nine days, offering adult visitors six free opportunities to ride different bikes.

The Test Ride Zone supported

by Shoei, Sidi and Spada offers a great line-up of bikes for visitors to try on the open road*. Those yet to pass their test can also have a go, thanks to the industrybacked Get On campaign, which gives aspiring bikers a first taste of riding a bike.

The Yamaha AMCA MX Experience provides expert tuition on a range of off-road

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machinery around an indoor dirt track. The ACU Try Trials feature also makes a welcome return, offering visitors 15-minute taster sessions of this super-skilled discipline.

Two manufacturers – Yamaha and BMW – will also offer their own riding experiences.

Yamaha’s Dark Side MT Tour brings with it a fleet of MT-09 Tracers plus MT-09 and MT07 demo bikes that will be available for visitors to enjoy in escorted test rides*.

Meanwhile, the BMW GS Trophy Experience will give visitors a chance to learn and try some of the handling techniques taught at BMW’s Off Road Skills School using BMW GS motorcycles.

Motorcycle Live 2015 runs November 28 to December 6. ** Advance tickets are on sale now.

To book, call 0844 581 2345 or visit www.motorcyclelive.co.uk. * Motorcycle licence required ** Advance ticket closing date: 5pm on November 27, 2015

www.twistngo.com 9

S NEWMetropolis

accessories

£ various

Biker’s safety tracker £179

Ridersmate is a safety device that clips/connects with the motorcycle and rider. When they separate in a crash, it automatically sends a text message to three recipients of your choice who can then contact you or the emergency services and get to you fast. They will have GPS details and be able to pinpoint you on Google maps. They can chase the emergency services on your behalf and ensure a fast response, or in worst case, they can go and collect you themselves. The Ridersmate system has 99%+ UK coverage. If the rider needs to send an SOS they can even activate it with the press of a button.

Info: www.ridersmateshop.co.uk

Peugeot is now offering a range of practical accessories for their Metropolis threewheeler. These include a 47-litre topbox, a universal smartphone mounting kit, a Metropolisspecific waterproof cover, plastic handguards and an ingenious U-lock that extends to secure both front wheels. For a limited time, they are also offering an accessory package (worth £495) for £50.

Info: peugeotscooters.co.uk

Forza/SH performance variator £ ask

Available for the Honda Forza 125 and Honda SH125i ABS 2013 on, the Malossi Multivar variator offers an overall increase in performance, with an improved top end speed, and better acceleration. The variator is supplied as a complete kit with rollers, variator driven pulley, pulley bush, sliders, and back plate. Malossi have also released a matching ‘X-Special’ drive belt featuring a five layer construction method.

Info: www.ve-uk.com

Steel ladies boots £99.95

Honda Vision 50cc 4T cylinder kits £ ask

The Spada Steel boot is one of the ladies water resistant boots currently in the company’s range.

The short, small-heeled boot is perfect for use with riding jeans; it’s made of 90% full grain leather with 8% Nylon steel wire fabric and is claimed to be waterproof and breathable. The zipped opening is covered by a Velcro overflap. Size availability is l37 to 41.

Info: www.SpadaClothing.co.uk

Malossi has released a new performance cylinder kit for Honda Vision owners. The new 83cc cylinder kit is manufactured from aluminium alloy with a high content of silicon machined to high precision with a tolerance of just 0.05mm. Technical features include, recalculated heat exchange surfaces, ultra-compact lightened and reinforced piston kit, and low friction piston rings.

The cylinder kit is supplied with a custom mapped ForceMaster CDI, which includes three different mappings.

Info: www.ve-uk.com

Mimetic jet helmet £42.90

The Hevik HV20 Mimetic open face helmet, with its camouflage style and matte finish, has a micrometric release system, a removable anti allergenic inner lining and an anti-scratch visor. Availability is in sizes S (56) to XL (61) at a price of £42.90.

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

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Liqui Moly winner Congratulations to Stuart Bailey from Stoke-on-Trent who is the lucky winner of our recent competition to win £200 worth of Liqui Moly products.

Thanks to Liqui Moly (www. liquimolybike.co.uk) for providing the prize.

LOW COST INSURANCE

0845 600 1664 | lexhaminsurance.co.uk

Authorised & Regulated by the FCA

Voyager 3 jacket The Spidi Voyager 3 Jacket is claimed to fully waterproof and comes with dynamic air intakes on the shoulders, sleeves and back.

Made of a polyamide outer fabric, it has CE Force Tech protectors on shoulders and elbows.

There are six storage pockets, making it perfect for commuting.

Colour availability is black/ grey and black, both featuring reflective panels Info: www.feridax.com

Vespa ‘Tween Screens’ £ ask

FACO has introduced four new models of its ‘Tween Screen’ joining the existing model for the Vespa GTS. This screen is now available for the Vespa PX, Vespa LX, Vespa Primavera 2014 on, and the Vespa Sprint 2014

on. It’s neither a short sports style screen nor a medium height affair, it’s both. To adjust, simply slacken two thumbscrews and slide the clear top portion up or down behind the lower tinted section to suit your requirements.

Info: www.ve-uk.com

Lula ladies jacket

Metropolis sports exhaust £349 incl VAT Scorpion has developed a sports exhaust for the Peugeot Metropolis that is half the weight of the original and also boosts the engine’s power by 5%. The slip-on style silencer

has a 400mm long T304 stainless steel sleeve with a flared oval construction, for extra ground clearance, enabling riders to take full advantage of the threewheeler’s 39º of lean.

Info: peugeotscooters.co.uk.

£114.95

Lula is a ladies waterproof jacket with a removable thermal lining and an adjustable waist belt. It has a high tensile ‘Maxdura’ protective outer shell, Airtex lining and four-piece CE approved armour.

Info: www.SpadaClothing.co.uk

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NEWS

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0845 600 1664 | lexhaminsurance.co.uk

Authorised & Regulated by the FCA

HondaVision Forcemaster ECU £ ask

Folding funnel £6 (incl VAT)

Made of a flexible oil- and petrolresistant material, Wunderlich’s folding funnel helps get the fluid where it should be, instead of all over your fingers, the exhaust and/ or the floor. Its flexibility also means it can get into the often awkwardly-located fillers found on bikes and scooters more easily than a rigid funnel. The funnel can be wiped clean and stashed in a tool box/roll or under the seat ready for whenever it’s needed next. It can also be used for topping up with petrol.

Info: www.nippynormans.com

The new Malossi Forcemaster ECU allows Honda Vision owners an easy upgrade path for future tuning, as well as improving the performance of the standard scooter thanks to itss three dedicated mapping profiles.

The increase in RPM allows for improved acceleration with a higher top speed.

Info: www.ve-uk.com

Knox ladies’ base layers

£ variable

Knox has introduced its first ever range of technical base layers styled and cut specifically for women. Using a combination of super soft Australian Merino wool and fast drying synthetic fibres, Dry Inside moves vapour and sweat away from the body quickly, keeping the wearer cool on spring/summer days and warm through autumn/winter.

Combined with the new Knox Armoured Shirt for Women – a stretchy and breathable shirt with Knox Lite + CE-approved protectors on the shoulders and elbows, and a Level 1 CE-approved back protector. Info: 01900 825825 / www.planet-knox.com

Compact XS319 tank bag £48.71 (incl VAT)

Givi has manufactured a new tank bag covering the most basic luggage needs at a low price. The mini XS319 is a compact tank bag and fitting system enabling rapid attachment to the tank lid. Suitable for naked and sport bikes, it adds 3-litres of storage space for smaller items and on arrival, it turns into a convenient bag.

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

Polini carbs £ ask

The Polini CP range of carburettors is now available in 19, 21, 23, and 24mm versions with pull-up choke assembly from VE (UK). These carburettors have a simplified setup procedure with the air flow, main and idle jets, to achieve the best possible performance with lower fuel consumption.

Info: www.ve-uk.com

12 www.twistngo.com

Tmax silicon cooling hose kit

£137.93 incl VAT

This 10-piece Samco sport performance silicon hose set will fit straight on a Tmax, improving the cooling system and setting a unique style for your engine. The

hose configuration will fit all years of Yamaha Tmax from 2001 to 2011 on the 500cc original, as well as the 530 engined machine produced from 2012 to current date.

Info: http://racebikebitz.com/

Camo jacket and trousers

£ variable

The Spada Camo collection is of a heavy duty nylon construction with what is claimed to be a 100% waterproof and breathable membrane. It has CE approved protectors, multiple arm adjusters and functional venting systems. Both jacket and trousers have full and short zip facilities. The jacket is available in sizes S to XXXXL; and the trousers in sizes S to XXXL. Info: www.

SpadaClothing.co.uk

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NEWS

LOW COST INSURANCE

0845 600 1664 | lexhaminsurance.co.uk

Authorised & Regulated by the FCA

V2X carbon helmet £269.99

Take a look at the Caberg V2X helmet – the only helmet to have the shell completely made from carbon fibre. It has adjustable top ventilation, front ventilation, a removable chin curtain and an inner sun visor. It’s available in two shell sizes (XS to XXL).

Info: www.cabergcares.co.uk

Hardtail boots £79.95

KSR Moto winner collects his prize

These custom-style, smooth styled boots are made of leather; they have a waterproof and breathable membrane and pull tabs for ease of fitting. Availability is in sizes 41-46.

Info: www.SpadaClothing.co.uk

When T&G reader Stephen Ross entered our competition, he really didn’t think he would be the lucky winner of the KSR Moto 125 that was up for grabs, so he was over the moon when the result was announced.

Barely controlling his excitement when collecting his prize, Stephen said: “Wow! What a great motorbike to win!

Thank-you to everyone at Twist & Go, KSR Moto, and everyone

Expandable sports pannier £99.99

DC to DC charger

These ergonomically designed Spada sports panniers have a 17/22 litre carrying capacity. They have a water-resistant coated Ripstop nylon outer with a heat resistant base; internal lining is 210 Denier.

They are secured on your bike by a heavy duty adjustable polypropylene webbing securing system, which has additional nylon securing cords for extra security.

There are two external pockets with waterproof zips. Carry straps are included for off-bike use. A high-vis waterproof cover in also included.

Info: www.SpadaClothing.co.uk

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£69.99

else who was involved in the competition, and for me winning this amazing treat. Initially I was only going to ride the 25 miles home after picking-up the bike from the treasure trove of T. Northeast Ltd’s fantastic bike shop, but once I was riding... well, it was so enjoyable I had to just keep going, and going and going! What a versatile and fun ride the KSR Moto GRS 125 is! It looks cool too! I’m still counting

my lucky stars. It was a pleasure to meet everyone today; it certainly is worthwhile entering these competitions.

It can happen to you, I’m living proof!

Stephen (centre) can be seen here collecting the keys for his prize from Neil Proctor – manager of the Moore Large Motorised Division (KSR Moto importers) – while Ian Northeast (left) looks on.

OptiMate’s new DC to DC charger enables the charging of a 12v lead-acid motorcycle battery using a 12v car battery. It recovers, charges and maintains any STD, AGM and GEL 12v battery (from 3 – 96Ah), but it doesn’t need to be plugged into the mains; just hook-up the DC to DC to a deep cycle battery and it will charge the bike battery without killing the source battery i.e. it shuts off when the voltage drops below 11v. Info: www.optimate1.com

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NEW METAL PRODUCT REVIEWS KEVLAR HOODIES

The Core RRP: £85

Reviewer: Mau The Hoodie Core Booster is a casual hoodie which is designed for occasional summer riding use. To this end, it has built-in Kevlar panels on the shoulders, elbows and back; it’s also equipped with removable CE protectors on shoulders and elbows; it also comes prepared to accept CE back protectors.

Being made from 100% cotton, it provided suitable protection when I tested it on a normal summer’s day; not being too bulky or too heavy meant that it wasn’t too

intrusive, leaving enough flexibility to allow free movement of my limbs to control my bike as I would expect to do.

The hoodie comes with two side pockets and features a mesh lining on the inside.

The hood is also detachable. Two side pockets and an inner pocket (both with zipper), provide enough storage space to carry the essentials in life, a mobile phone and wallet, etc. It is available in sizes S to XXXL in a variety of colours (black, red, blue, grey, hard coal, urban, burgundy and steel green.

Oxford LidLock RRP: £12.99 Reviewer: Mau This little bit of kit is absolutely brilliant. On a recent long trip space was short in my underseat compartment, meaning that I had nowhere to safely stash my helmet – and this is where the carabiner LidLock came in handy. It takes up little or no space and can be easily kept in your jacket pocket, meaning that it is quickly available for use without having to fumble under the seat for it. You can either slip the accompanying T-bar through your helmet‘s D-ring, or alternatively (if you have a full face) you can slip the stretchable coiled cable through the facial opening. In fact, while I was away I stretched that option a little further and fed the cable through both my helmet and a jacket sleeve, so that I didn’t have to carry it around on a hot day.

Info: www.oxprod.com / 01993 862300

The Hunt RRP: £108 Another hoodie from the same company is the Hunt, which offers the same level of riding protection as the Core hoodie already mentioned. This version is made from a mixture 50% cotton and 50% polyester and features a double front closure with zip and press studs. The Hunt features two breast

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pockets (with lockable buttons), two side pockets, plus one inside – each of them a zipper closure. Again, available sizes are S to XXXL; the colour choice is either blue, green or grey (featured).

Info: www.factoryagencies.co.uk / info@ factoryagencies.co.uk / 01749 342491

Givi Maxia 4 RRP: £375.64 (with rack) Reviewer: Pete Henshaw This is the first topbox I’ve used for a while, and boy is it a relief to get back to one.

For years, I’ve relied on a Ventura bag, which was light and waterproof, but a very awkward shape – tall and thin with a narrow top opening. And in theory it could be lifted off and away by a tealeaf (though it never was).

Givi’s latest 56-litre topbox by contrast, locks to the rack and allows brilliant access to all of that lovely space. It’s big enough for two full-face helmets or a whole mountain of stuff – together with a Baglux tankbag, it’s proved plenty for weekends away. Anna the

pillion also tells me that topboxes are great because they allow party frocks to be stored nice and flat, which is always good to know.

The Maxia 4 has a padded sheet covering the floor, which helps prevent smaller items from bouncing around and marking the plastic, and there’s the usual integrated straps to stop them hitting the lid. Big reflectors on the lid should make you unmissable at night. Like all Givi kit, the Maxia 4 is very well made. It isn’t cheap, though the RRP quoted here includes the cost of a bike-specific rack, and the Ventura also came to over £300, complete with rack.

It’s made my motorcycling more civilised.

Info: www.givi.co.uk

Spada Enforcer WP leather gloves RRP: £64.95 Reviewer: Mau The Enforcer WP (waterproof) is a full winter‘race-style’glove with moulded black carbon knuckle sections; it features ‘digital’leather reinforcements on the palms with keprotec inserts. The gloves are fitted with a waterproof and breathable Hipora® membrane and Thinsulate® thermal linings.

A visor wipe on the left thumb helps riders to keep their vision clear while riding in rainy weather. There’s also a Velcro wrist strap adaptor which helps to ensure that the gloves fit correctly to your hands.

Having gotten used to riding using summer weight gloves, these were the first winter weight offerings I’ve tried in a while, so I wasn’t surprised when they didn’t offer the same amount of‘feel’as a pair of summer gloves. Wearing gloves like this is a sign that winter is only just around the corner; the extra thickness of the material

and layers, although a bit more restrictive, is there for a reason – to keep out the wintery elements.

Being new, the gloves took time to become a little more supple, but after a few miles of use that stiffness in the fingers soon disappeared, giving me the flexibility it’d expect and the ability to maintain control of the bike’s switches and levers. The 35 mile ride home on one cold dark night also confirmed the gloves’ability to provide a decent amount of weather protection and at no time did the occasion arise where hand or fingers suffered any noticeable coldness. I haven’t ridden anywhere during the rain while using them, but I’ve no reason to doubt their waterproof abilities.

Size availability is XS to 3XL; two style options are available – either plain black, or black/flouro.

Info: www.spadaclothing.co.uk

Abus Granit Victory 68 disc lock RRP: £ 90.99-£92.99 Reviewer: Mau German company Abus has been producing padlocks for over 80 years. They produce everything from portable disc locks, ground anchors, U-type shackle locks and heavy duty steel chains to more flexible cable locks for lightweight motorcycles and scooters. The Granit Victory 68 disc lock features a 14mm steel bolt, lock body (and supporting elements of the actual locking system) which are all made out of a specially hardened steel. Its unique round shape and turn-able outer ring all come together to handicap the use of special opening tools often used by thieves. All of this means it provides a high degree of protection against lock-picking or other manipulation attempts.

The lock comes with two keys, one of which is lit by LED; an Abus code card is included should the need arise for additional or replacement keys. A memory cable is provided as a reminder to prevent riding off unintentionally while the bike is still locked (in the case of the 68‘Roll Up’version, the memo cable is integrated into the lock, so that you can’t lose it).

Info: www.feridax.com

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NEW METAL PRODUCT REVIEWS Caberg Duke Legend helmet RRP: £179.99 Reviewer: Mau Made in Italy, the Caberg Duke is a flip-up style helmet that comes ready-equipped to take a Pinlock system anti-fog visor. It has dual EC homologation for use as either a full face when closed, or as a jet style helmet with the front‘flipped-up’. The twin visor system adds an inner sun visor for use on those really bright days, or when riding into the sun. It is fitted with both a removable breath guard and chin curtain. The roof of the helmet is fitted with an adjustable ventilation system with inner channels and there’s an airflow extraction system fitted to the rear. Chin ventilation is adjustable as well. A‘Just Speak’controller is fitted with a Bluetooth kit available separately.

Out on the road the helmet feels comfortable to wear and no discomfort was experienced. Riding at speed with the helmet front locked down in position,

the wind noise was no louder that I had anticipated. The front section flips-up easily with just a simple push of a button; in this ‘jet helmet style’position, there’s an obvious increase in the amount of wind buffering suffered, which will of course, also increase the amount of wind noise.

At this time of year, the sun (when there is any) is quite low in the sky – and that’s when the tinted inner visor comes in very useful – and I wouldn’t be without one.

Turning the corner into the T&G Towers car park one morning, I found myself heading straight into the low-in-the-sky rising sun – quick flip down of the tinted visor – problem solved.

The helmet comes in a range of sizes from XS through to XL in a variety of styles. The style I have is called the‘Duke Legend Italia’ but there’s a wide range of other variations available to suit individual needs.

Info: www.cabergcares.co.uk

Posiscion ladies jacket RRP: £145.99 Reviewer: Carli Ann Smith Tucano Urbano is known for making some seriously stylish gear to wear on two wheels – and this Posiscion ladies jacket is no exception.

The outer shell is made from eco suede and treated with a water resistant Teflon – while I’ve never worn it in a heavy rainstorm, I’ve worn it out in drizzle and it’s kept me dry. Do I trust it as much as other textile garments? Unfortunately not. Does it look cool? Yes. It’s a classically cut short biker jacket and has a cut specific to females – there’s fitting adjustments on the sides of the waist and also on the wrists.

I found the sizing quite small, so went for a size bigger than I usually would – bear that in mind if ordering online. There’s plenty of pockets to choose from on the

Shoei Hornet ADV RRP: £449.99 Reviewer: Bruce Wilson I’ve been testing Shoei’s Hornet ADV relentlessly over the past months. I had the original Hornet for a few years, but I’m already more of a fan of the second generation product. Why? For lots of reasons, with the biggest draw being the visor detachment system. I ride a lot of green lanes, but I also do motocross. I wear goggles for the latter, whereas a visor’s my preference when there’s road miles to be ridden. The problem with the old lid is that you have to physically unscrew the peak and the visor system before bolting the peak back on separately once the visor’s removed. It takes forever, and each time you risk damaging

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the slots of the soft plastic screws, or losing them. On the Hornet ADV you just pull down a retaining clip and the visor pops off, with refitting proving just as easy.

The ADV is more aggressively styled than the Hornet that came before, with the heavily slotted peak being a stand-out feature. Likewise, advancements to the chin and rear vents, give the lid a totally different look, and it’s noticeable how much cooler the channelled air makes the product feel. There are now six exhaust vents at the back, and the repositioned chin inlet means that you don’t get a mouthful of muck when you’re riding through really fine dust.

I initially suffered discomfort in the ADV, before removing a small amount of padding, which is removable and washable, so getting to the source of my niggle didn’t take long.

I’ve already washed the cheek and 3D centre padding a few times, and it’s retained its

shape, which is great news for me. Having recently spent a weekend blasting through trails in the Brecons, I had to make my way down to the Swansea-region from Lincolnshire, riding on a naked bike.

If ever there were a test of a peaked lid, that was it. The ADV seems to hold my face more evenly than the original Hornet, which had a tendency to pivot skywards at speed. I also found the new lid quieter, and buffeting was far less.

A final thing to praise is the toughness of the helmet. On green lanes, it’s natural to find yourself head-butting the odd branch out the way, but nothing so far has even scratched the stunning paint finish on the multi-composite fibre helmet, let alone damaged any of the plastic protruding parts of the ADV. If you couldn’t tell, I’m massively impressed by it.

Info: 01384 413 841 / www.feridax.com

outside and the inside and the two outer pockets are perfectly placed for putting your hands in on colder days.

It doesn’t come with armour as standard, but there’s the option (and pockets) to insert D30 elbow and back armour. Tucano Urbano has developed its‘Reflactive system’– which gives you visibility when you want it.

On the wrists and collar there are strategically placed reflective strips which you can fold away when you’re not on the bike. If I’m being completely honest about this jacket, I wouldn’t want to wear it on anything other than a scooter in town as I’m not too sure how the‘eco suede’would score on the scale for abrasion resistance.

If you’re looking for a jacket to wear casually or at work and then jump on your scooter for a short ride home, then it does the job.

Info: www.tucanourbano.com/gb