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No. 100 September/October 2014 £3.99
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WELCOME
Atrulyinternational magazine Barcelona, Amsterdam, the Alps, and even Thailand; T&G certainly has a very international flavour this issue – which is fitting, when you consider this is our 100th edition. To tie in with this anniversary we’re running a special 100 prize competition giveaway on page 44. It’s also the last chance for you to enter our ‘Win a scooter’ competition, so get your entry form in for both of these now! Of course, there’s also lots more to read inside which includes roads test on the latest bikes, kit buying advice, riding tips and other road skills – something for everybody, read and enjoy!
THE TANGLED WEB OF THE BIKE RIDER After a recent conversation with my boss, I thought I’d relay this little anecdote to you. It took place in our staff toilet where he was frantically scrubbing dead insects off his helmet. The conversation eventually came around to the amount of dead insects you always end up with on the front of your bike and he told me the tale of a spider that used to live inside his wing mirror. While the bike was being ridden the spider always seemed to remain quite snug and sheltered behind the reflective glass, only appearing once the bike was stationary again. It took a while to figure out why the spider had adopted this hiding place as his home until my boss finally worked out that it was coming out of his safe hideaway in order to enjoy a sumptuous feast of the dead insects stuck to the front of his bike! The spider was obviously enjoying life on the open road with all his meals and accommodation chucked in for free! How about that for inventiveness?
48 78
WHO’SWHO? MAU SPENCER
Heading up the T&G team, Editor Mau has been riding bikes since he was 16. In between the time he’s spent getting this issue ready for press, he’s been out on the road testing a mixture of bikes for this and future issues.
DAVE BELL Passed his bike test in 2009 (midlife crisis) and has been riding anything that our mags will lend to him to test, so he’ll ride anything with two wheels from 1700cc cruisers to 50cc autos. Dave’s philosophy is:“So long as it has two wheels it’s cool!”
STEFF WOODHOUSE Steff‘The Fat Stig’Woodhouse is our key accounts manager. In between talking to advertisers and enjoying his regular‘Big Mac Breakfast’(gets very grumpy if he misses it), he’s found time to assist us on testing bikes for our AM licence article (see page 48).
CARLI ANN SMITH Staff writer on the T&G team, Carli has been riding bikes for over a decade. She loves all things two-wheeled and started her riding career on a DT125. She’s just got back from Amsterdam where she tested Yamaha’s new Tricity three wheeler – just in time for this issue.
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)!
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.
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IN DETAIL
06 14 16 20 26 30 34 38 42 48 60
GOSSIP ‘N’ GADGETS
Up-to-date news and product information
NEW METAL
What’s on the way to the UK?
PRODUCT REVIEWS
A closer look at some of the latest goodies
MT125 LAUNCH
The latest addition to Yamaha’s successful MT-range
XCITING 400i TEST
The latest maxi scooter offering from KYMCO
SINNIS SC125
Cruiser styling on a budget
HONLEY VENTURER 250
Dave Bell finds out what it’s like to live with
THE TRICITY ARRIVES
Carli goes on the launch of Yamaha’s new three wheeler
THE 100TH EDITION
A landmark issue for T&G – and the chance to win 100 prizes
AM GROUP TEST
A few options to get yourself on the road
MOORE LARGE WHO ARE THEY?
A look at the company behind our scooter giveaway competition
62 66 74 78 80 82 84 88 90 97 118
WIN A NIPPONIA SCOOTER
Your last chance to enter our scooter competition
TROUSER BUYING GUIDE
Choosing the right trousers for you
SO YOU WANT TO…
…brush up on your riding skills
ALPINE ADVENTURES
Carli explores the Alps
URBAN SKILLS
How to position yourself on the road
MOTORCYCLE DIARIES
Jon attempts his Mod 1 and 2
READERS’ LETTERS
Have your say on the topics you choose
READERS’ RIDES
Share your two wheel world with us
AMAZING THAILAND
The land of smiles provides unexpected surprises
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
ARE YOU A SUBSCRIBER? Get a copy of your favourite magazine before others! See page 28 for details
Editor: Mau Spencer mspencer@mortons.co.uk Publisher: Steve Rose Contributors: Richard Addison, Dave Bell, Jason Carpenter, Jonathan Crocker, Joe Dick, Pete Henshaw, Mau, Carli Ann Smith, Wayne Tempest, Steff Woodhouse. Apologies to anyone we’ve forgotten. Design: Charlotte Turnbull Reprographics: Simon Duncan Group production editor: Tim Hartley Divisional advertising team leader: Richard Sinclair rsinclair@mortons.co.uk Advertising: Jo Scarbro jscarbro@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 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. 715-5724595 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 (101): Published on October 15, 2014 EDITORIAL DEADLINE: September 16, 2014
Independent publisher since 1885
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38
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
DVSA safety recalls
The DVSA (Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency) has announced vehicle safety recalls on a number of two-wheelers. These include the Vespa 946 (fire risk), the Piaggio X10 350 (fuel leakage issues) and the Harley-Davidson FXSB (engine cutting out).
DIARY DATE:
SEPT 21: Great Potteries Pet Food Cavalcade leaves Port Vale FC, Hamil Rd, Burslem ST6 1AW at noon. Rock concert and party after ride. Charity entry fee: £3 per person plus pet food donation. More information available at www.petfoodcavalcade.com GOT AN EVENT YOU WANT MENTIONING? Email mau@twistngo.com with full details.
Proposed changes to MoT payments
The DVSA is considering removing payment by cheque as a method of paying for your MoT. If the changes go ahead, then they could happen next year.
Wave gloves £54.99
The new Weise Wave gloves are made with a full-grain leather palm and stretch textile on the back of the hand, and an integrated TPU reinforcement covers the knuckles. The inner lining is held in place with the McFit® technology system, which attaches it without stitching. Special fabric on the index finger and thumb enables use on a touch screen while wearing the gloves and silicon grips are fitted to the palm and fingers. The Wave is held in place with a Neoprene® cuff with adjustable Velcro® retained adjusting strap. Info: www.thekeycollection.co.uk 0117 971 9200
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Latestindustryfigures (InformationsuppliedbytheMCIA) JUNE 2014 AND YEAR TO DATE COMPARISONS BY ENGINE BAND 0-50cc 51-125cc 126-650cc 651-1000cc Over 1000cc TOTAL REGISTRATIONS
June 2014
June 2013
% Change
June 2014 YTD
June 2013 YTD
% Change
935 3891 1435 2483 2271 11,015
1037 3406 1651 2302 1971 10,367
-9.8% 14.2% -13.1% 7.9% 15.2% 6.3%
4888 18,426 7583 11,739 11,358 53,994
5121 16,623 7449 9818 9635 48,646
-4.5% 10.8% 1.8% 19.6% 17.9% 11.0%
HIGHEST REGISTERING MODEL IN ENGINE BAND
0-50cc 51-125cc 126-650cc 651-1000cc Over 1000cc
Pulse BT 49 QT-9D Scout Honda CBF 125 M Honda CBR 650 F Triumph Street Triple R BMW R 1200 GS
72 333 109 157 270
MAJOR BRAND SALES
Honda Yamaha Triumph BMW Kawasaki
1996 1591 1192 885 587
Suzuki Piaggio H-Davidson Ducati Lexmoto
577 432 408 350 329
UK PTW BACKGROUND INFORMATION (Dept for Transport figures)
Motorcycles in use 1.3 million 2009 1.2 million 2010 1.2 million 2011 1.2 million 2012 TBA 2013
Rider test passes 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13
70,000 32,000 35,000 40,000 45,000
Distance travelled by bike 1.3 million 2009 1.2 million 2010 1.2 million 2011 1.2 million 2012
Halfordsexpandsbikeproductrange Halfords has expanded its range of motorcycle and scooter products to include helmets, batteries, storage boxes, wet weather riding gear, protective covers and security locks. Halfords category manager Paul Tomlinson said: “Halfords has always regarded motorists on two wheels as an important part of its customer base and had been selling a variety of motorcycle and scooter products for over 60 years. “Our latest range comprises more than 250 core products specifically for this market and Halfords’ combination of accessibility – there’s a store within 20 minutes for 90% of the UK population – value and a welcoming store environment will appeal to this new generation of riders. “The market for motorcycle and scooter products has fragmented, many independents have shut down and manufacturer-specific dealers
have failed to adapt – creating an environment that can be intimidating for new scooter riders.” To find out more about the range of products that Halfords offers visit www.halfords.com
In association with
Successful‘RidetoWork’
Yamaha UK staff outside their new Sheerwater premises Nathan Baines arrives in Leicester on his Triumph motorcycle
As part of the annual campaign to promote the benefits of two wheels, June 16, 2014, was designated as Ride to Work Day for this year. Special events and bike-related promotions took place all over the UK. Here are a few pictures that reflect what went on:
Jason Lodge arrives in Leeds on his Honley. Also pictured are road safety officer Mark Sadler (bicycle), Ewhen Chymera (West Yorkshire road safety officer), and Shirley Pattinson (RTWD project manager)
Samurai jacket upgrade £99.99
Buffalo Clothing has updated its Samurai textile jacket and introduced a new black/neon yellow colour option. Removable CE protectors are fitted at shoulder and elbow, with a pocket for a back protector if required, plus a waterproof/ breathable drop liner and removable quilted lining. This waterproof jacket comes in sizes S-5XL and is also available in a black/gun colour option. Info: www.thekeycollection.co.uk 0117 971 9200
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Polite waistcoat £32.99
A little controversial for some, but some BikeSafe teams are now promoting them. The‘Polite’waistcoat is designed to catch the driver’s attention and to keep a wide berth from you and is stated as being 100% legal to wear, as it does not say Police anywhere. It comes in several different sizes and fits easily over normal bike clothing. At the sides are Velcro adjustable straps to ensure a tight fit. There are two internal pockets. A range of sizes are available in yellow, pink, blue/silver Battenberg reflective colours, or black and white. Info: www.highvisibility.uk.com
PRODUCT REVIEWS
KTM 390 tank bag RRP: £119.54
KTM 390 rear bag RRP: £92.47
Reviewer: Carli Sometimes I don’t want to fill my pockets with my phone, purse, house keys and chocolate bars – but it doesn’t warrant carrying round a huge rucksack; this cool little rear bag offers a great solution. It fits on the back of my long-term loan KTM 390 Duke using two Velcro straps under the pillion seat and turns the empty seat into a handy storage space that doesn’t ruin the lines of the bike. When fitted it makes the bike a single seater – that’s fine as I never take pillions – but the ease of fitment means it can be taken off in seconds. The black and orange colour scheme ties
in with the bike and the elasticated section on top is convenient for storing my waterproofs. What I particularly like about the bag is that it opens up to a huge 30 litres, meaning I can fit my helmet in there when I’m not riding and the carry handle on the top means I can carry it round if I don’t want to leave it unattended on the bike. It comes with an orange waterproof drawstring cover, to keep my belongings dry in the rain, which fits neatly inside the rear bag when not in use. Info: www.ktm.co.uk
Reviewer: Carli
I’ve always used rucksacks, as I thought that tank bags required a whole load of fitment and would be a pain – now, I’m a tank bag convert and proud to admit it. Fitment was simple and didn’t require any tools – the straps fit around the frame and clip into place. Although after taking advice from the guys in the office, I took the seat off and secured it from under the seat and now it’s not going anywhere... The material section is strapped to the bike clips in place, so when filling up you just have to unclip the two near the seat and push it up – easy-peasy. The black and orange bag itself connects to the holder with an all-round zip and there are pockets galore – three on the outside – and the inner section has a net section in the lid for anything you want to keep separate.
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The transparent zipped section on the top comes in handy as a sat nav holder and a place to keep my phone in sight. There’s definitely enough room in there for what you’d need for a weekend away as it’s expandable up to 18 litres. I thought that it might get in the way of the dash, but its slanted design ensures the speedo stays in view. There’s a carry handle on the top and a shoulder strap for when it’s off the bike which zips away when not in use. For bad weather, it comes with a rain cover with a transparent top which covers the bag and is held in place by two pull cords. Having been‘lucky’enough to try it out, I know that it works. It’s a high quality bag with plenty of storage space – I love it! Info: www.ktm.co.uk
Furygan Hero textile jacket RRP: £189.99
Reviewer: Carli As soon I laid eyes on the Hero jacket, I loved it. With its figure hugging fit and multi-layer system – it claimed to have it all. Sliding the jacket on, it initially felt a lot tighter than my other textile jackets because of its slimline fit, however I got used to this the more I wore it and it has become like a second skin now that it is bedded in. It has adjusters at the waist and arms, zip adjusters at the hips and a stretch insert on the side so it’s easily made to fit perfectly. The removable thermal padded lining is great as it makes it a jacket that will look after you all year round. Unlike many jackets where the liner is removable but you struggle to get it back in, the lining simply slides back in, press studs back into the sleeves and zips into the body. Two vents under the armpits help with heat dissipation – providing a great draught
as you’re riding along too. You’ll also find two pockets on the outside and three on the inside which offer space for essentials like mobile phones and money. The CE approved D30 armour on the shoulders and elbows ensures that I stay well protected, but it isn’t big and bulky, further adding to the comfort of the jacket. I’ve worn the jacket in all conditions and it’s kept me dry. It has a nifty zippable flap which is staggered from the main fastener – it secures underneath the main zip to create a barrier from the wind and rain – and so far, it’s done what it promised. The jacket is available in sizes S-2XL – if ordering online then double-check the sizing charts and go for a size larger than you usually get as the sizing is definitely on the small side. There’s a version for men too. Info: www.nevis.uk.com / 01425 478936
Buffalo Bella leather ladies’ gloves RRP: £39.99
Reviewer: Carli In summer, I don’t like riding with really thick gloves, but I like my hands to still be protected. These gloves from Buffalo are just the ticket. Made from 100% leather with a polyester lining, reinforced areas on the palm and thumb allow you to grip the bars with confidence and still have plenty of feeling.
They’ve been really comfortable since the first time I put them on and they’ve been my glove of choice for the summer weather. They’re good between-season gloves too as they have 3M Thinsulate lining, so are perfect for those late-evening rideouts when the temperature drops. Info: www.thekeycollection.co.uk
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LAUNCH REPORT
YamahaMT-125 Joining the already successful line-up of the MT-09 and MT-07, Yamaha has introduced the brand-new MT-125 to the family, so that A1 licence holders can join in the fun.
A1
T
he Supersport backbone of the popular YZF-R125 has been developed into an urban Streetfighter. The result: a torque-filled, economical 125cc bike with styling taken from its very attractive big brothers – leaving no doubt that you’re part of the MT clan.
ENGINE The MT’s lump is the same as the new YZF-R125: a single cylinder four-stroke with a strong emphasis on efficiency. Despite riding all day, the fuel indicator hardly moved, and I got an incredibly impressive average of 124mpg from the machine. The test route took in the busy streets of Barcelona, with its hundreds of traffic lights and city commuters, as well as the twisty mountain roads. It’s got a really nice character for a 125, and packs a whole lot of attitude, despite being the baby of the bunch. The six-speed gearbox is smooth and allows you to reach the national speed limit easily, making country roads a pleasure. It’s a punchy engine with power throughout the revs, and unlike a lot of 125s, you don’t always have to change down to get that lower end torque for safer overtakes.
CHASSIS Both the MT and the 2014 YZF are developed from the 2008 YZF-R125, and feature the same engine, wheel rims, brakes and exhaust. However, sat astride the MT, it feels like a completely different machine to the new Sportbike: The handlebars are larger, and have been raised which gives a great feeling of control. The shorter tank of the MT provides a hip position that’s further forward – 42mm to be precise – and puts you right over the centre of the bike. The suspension has been redeveloped on both models, featuring a new link design, which allows for the carrying of a pillion without bottoming out. The amount of sag was noticeable on both machines – when you sat on them, they squatted down considerably, which reduces the seat height and meaning even at 5ft 6in I could place my feet down with confidence. When riding, the linked monoshock rear suspension and KYB USD forks absorbed the bumps and dealt with changes in road surface brilliantly. The wheel rims have been specially developed, and have a ‘Y’ shaped design running
SPEC:
with a Michelin 100/80 x 17 front and a 130/70 x 17 rear tyre, which provided plenty of grip.
ENGINE
Liquid-cooled, 124.7cc, four-stroke, single cylinder
STYLING It’s unmistakeably part of the MT gang with its front air intakes, distinctive headlight and aggressive styling. While the price is still to be announced, a Yamaha spokesperson said that it will be under £4000. Colour options include race blue, matt grey and anodised red – all of which are striking, perfectly emphasising the angular lines. The bike will be hitting dealers in the middle of August.
RIDE
POWER
14.8bhp (11.0kW) @ 9000rpm BRAKES
Front: 292mm hydraulic single disc Rear: 230mm hydraulic single disc TYRES
Front: 100/80 x 17 M/C Rear: 130/70 x 17 M/C SUSPENSION
Front: upside-down telescopic fork Rear: adjustable rear shock absorber SEAT hEIGhT
Riding in and out of town was great fun, and I was able to hold my ground easily on the bustling streets. Power delivery was smooth and braking prompt. The rear braking system is the same as the previous model – a single piston floating caliper – but the front brakes are new, featuring a floating 292mm disc with a radially mounted four-pot caliper. Looking down at the dash you can see all the vital information easily. Yamaha designers took inspiration from the simple layout of smartphones: Turned off the screens are black, but when you turn the key each of the three sections come to life. The centre screen shows rpm and speed, while the right-hand side displays the fuel indicator, clock and odometer. The left consists of the engine temperature, maximum speed, average
810mm
WET WEIGhT
138kg
TANK CAPACITY
11.5 litres
CONTACT
www.yamaha-motor.co.uk
PRICE
Sub £4000 (TBC)
WE SAY: Great fun, striking looks and extremely economical.
★★★★★
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KYMCO Xciting400i Not one to be put off by bad weather, Carli takes a rather wet trip on the Xciting new offering from Taiwanese manufacturer, KYMCO.
P
acked with ample storage, a high level of attention to detail and a number of features usually found on scooters costing double the price, the Xciting 400i is the latest maxi-scooter to join the KYMCO family – and what an addition it is.
ENGINE The four-stroke, single cylinder 399cc engine certainly packs a punch. It’s extremely smooth and the throttle response is instant. The machine will happily cruise at the national speed limit and there’s plenty more from the 35.5bhp engine should you need it – with a claimed top speed of 95mph. There’s plenty of torque throughout the revs and it powers out of corners and completes overtakes with ease. In town, the strong engine means you can take decisive action and muscle into any gaps you may spot.
HANDLING The ride was confidence-inspiring and great fun. Our whole test took part in a downpour but the Xciting stuck to the road and I was riding round with a smile on my face thanks to the sporty handling and fantastic grip offered by the Maxxis tyres. Plus, unlike similar offerings from other manufacturers, the KYMCO offers Bosch ABS as standard. With disc brakes on the front and rear, stopping is efficient and prompt, brilliant for bringing the Xciting to a controlled halt. The suspension gave good feedback but not too much to make it an uncomfortable ride. The rear shock is adjustable too, meaning that should you want to or need to then you change it to suit you. The well designed seat, combined with the large footboards, makes for a comfortable ride and the backrest for the rider supports the bottom of your back nicely. There’s a choice of where you put your
feet too – put them stretched out front when you’re racking up the miles on the motorway and then put them back down on the footboards for town riding. The windscreen was the perfect height for me and helped to protect me from the elements – I’m 5ft 6in, so taller riders might benefit from the aftermarket larger windscreen that’s available. Pillions are well catered for too with a nice wide seat, perfectly placed footpegs and a grab-rail to hold on to.
A2
SPEC: ENGINE
Four-stroke, single cylinder, liquid-cooled 399cc POWER
LOOKS Well styled with a high attention to detail – I couldn’t find anything I didn’t like about the Xciting. It’s a scooter that looks like it means business with its LED daytime running lights, blacked out screen and angular lines. It’s got a nice chunky exhaust and the black colour scheme with silver touches gives the impression of executive style with a slightly rebellious streak. As with most scooters, the central ignition controls everything and has a cover for security and also protection from the elements. The dash shows all the vital information and more – it features an analogue rev counter and a digital screen with speed, a clock, a fuel gauge and odometer – trip A and B. There’s a helpful phone light too which tells you when your phone is plugged in charging so that you don’t forget to take it out of the glovebox.
35bhp (26.5kW) @ 7500rpm BRAKES
Front: twin disc Rear: single disc TYRES
Front: 120/70 x 15 Rear: 150/70 x 14 SUSPENSION
Front: hydraulic front forks Rear: twin shocks – five-stage adjustable rear suspension SEAT HEIGHT
795mm
DRY WEIGHT
200kg
TANK CAPACITY
12.5 litres
CONTACT
STORAGE There’s a huge amount of storage – 42.7 litres to be precise – under the seat there’s room for a helmet (or two depending on their size), a carry hook and a glovebox which features a 12v socket. This is convenient for powering a sat nav, heated clothing or boosting up your phone battery while you’re on the go. To open the seat, turn the key in the ignition and the hydraulic struts take care of lifting the seat for you and keep it up – an internal light comes on too so you can see what you’re doing – no more searching round in the dark – not that you’ll want to stop riding.
www.kymco.co.uk
PRICE £4999
+ OTR
WE SAY: Sporty styling and responsive ride.
★★★★★
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YAMAHATRICITY
An A1 motorcycle licence compliant three-wheeled scooter, and the first in the‘New Mobility’segment for the Japanese manufacturer with the aim to encourage more people on to two (or in this case, three) wheels. Extra stability, plentiful underseat storage and competitively priced at £3399. Words: Carli Ann Smith Images: Yamaha
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WHO IS IT FOR? Whether you’re a new rider, or an experienced biker looking for a commuting machine, the Tricity could be a very good choice for you… Our test route took in a variety of roads, including dual carriageways and inner city riding over 50 miles, yet my Tricity delivered 70mpg. With smoother and more consciously economic riding it should be much more. Yamaha suggested it was a family machine – something to be used for work during the week that teenagers could borrow on weekends, or a solution for a parent doing the school run. I really like this idea and think that this type of vehicle could be a way to show just some of the benefits of two wheels. At 125cc, it’s a friendly machine, but has enough power to keep up with traffic and get you to your destination quickly. Unlike some other three-wheeled scooters, it can’t be ridden on a car licence because its front wheels are too close together (which helps keeps it narrow). The extra wheel appeals to
those who may be hesitant to ride – Yamaha was quick to point out that it wasn’t made for long distances, but I feel Yamaha is being hard on itself… The seat is comfortable and the ride is smooth – I’d be happy to tackle my 70 mile daily commute on it. Its first service is at 600 miles and then every 2400 miles after. And because the suspension is telescopic, dealers are well equipped and knowledgeable when dealing with it. It’s the only 125cc three-wheeler on the market: Piaggio’s MP3 was available as a 125 and 250 back in 2006 and 2007, but only the 300 and 500cc versions are now available. You could pick those up second-hand, but I don’t think that someone in the market for an MP3 or a Peugeot Metropolis would be looking at the Tricity thanks to the weight and price differences. With more than 150,000 MP3s sold in Europe, there’s certainly a market for these new-fangled threewheelers, and Yamaha’s machine will hopefully see a lot more of them on the UK roads, bringing more people into the biking life.
10 MINUTES WITH… Shun Miyazawa We grabbed Shun Miyazawa, product manager of the Tricity, for a quick chat to ask him more about the three-wheeled wonder. What was the idea behind the Tricity? We realised that within the industry there wasn’t a new revolution, it was always about two wheels and there was too much emphasis on design and concept. We wanted to do something new. We developed the ‘Tesseract’ (a hybrid electric concept vehicle unveiled by the Yamaha Motorcycle Company at the 2007 Tokyo Motorcycle Show). When we came to develop the concept, we chose three wheels because they are popular with European customers. We wanted a scooter that had low running costs and low initial investment for customers. What’s the plan of action? This is just the first trial of the new mobility concept for us – not just one shot – we have a clear plan
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ahead of the next five to six years. We’re aiming to capture a new group of safety conscious customers – who are looking for something new. How do you decide which characteristics to focus on for a new machine? We base our machines on a triangle – with fuel economy at one corner, passion and bike character at the other and design completing the three. All of our machines must contain these elements, but depending on the custom profile, we will adjust how much emphasis is put on each one – a machine must always have everything though. What would you say was the Tricity’s unique selling point? It’s the stability. We want to help customers ride and feel confident in the front end. We didn’t want to lose the two-wheeled benefits though and we worked hard to keep the dimensions the same as a normal 125cc machine.
How long did development take? It actually took four years, which is longer than our usual 2½ to 3½ year timeframe, however we saw rapid growth in the Asian market so we decided to adapt the scooter so that it suited the Asian market too – such as different usage, road surfaces and rider posture and size. How do you expect the scooter to fare in the UK? We have high expectations in the UK. We did a survey of 800 commuters in London and there was a healthy interest. They are not happy on public transport or about getting stuck in traffic – we think this is the solution. The small capacity allows A1 licence holders to ride it, and in some EU areas you can ride it on a car licence – we wanted to make sure that the entry barriers to riding it were low. We want people to share this scooter between the family – let the young members gain confidence on it and they could then get something bigger and sportier as they get older.
Would you think about doing larger capacity versions? We would have no difficulty making larger capacity threewheeled scooters – we’re going to listen to our customers and see what they want next. We plan to do another survey in around six months time to ask them what they want – whether it’s a centre panel, sportier engine characteristics or a larger capacity.
T&G CENTENARY
Celebrating our 100th edition
Time shoots by so quickly. Has it really been 14 years since our first edition? T&G goes back in time to interview former editor, Andy Gillard (now editor of Scootering magazine) who was there at the beginning.
First to last: significant issues reflect the changing face of T&G magazine
TG: How did Twist & Go start? AG: “Twist & Go magazine was the concept of Stuart Lanning, who at the time was the owner and publisher of Scootering magazine. Myself and Sticky (still the main contributor to Scootering today) were both working for Scootering at the time. We all were (and still are) scooterists, regularly clocking up the miles. Together with freelance contributors, we produced the first edition of T&G”. TG: When and why did it start? AG: “Scootering magazine has always been at the forefront of testing and reporting on new scooter models. In the 1990s there was a scooter boom and the amount of new scooters being launched was amazing. The problem was we simply didn’t have the space to fit them all into Scootering, so Stuart launched ‘What Scooter?’ as a supplement that went out free with Scootering in 1996. “We continued to include regular test rides in Scootering, but that still wasn’t enough so ‘What Scooter?’ became an
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annual then biannual supplement until eventually Twist & Go was born in the summer of 2000 to ease pressure on the bursting pages of Scootering, and to cover far more new scooter reviews. Scootering continued along classic roots, but still included (and indeed still does include) a select few modern scooter tests that are more likely to appeal to enthusiasts, rather than the everyday commuter, those with innovative features and technology, sports or touring credentials for example.” TG: Where was it based? AG: “We were based in sunny Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset. The office was above a wine bar/ bistro/cafe, which was handy for a drink at Christmas!” TG: How quickly did it develop? AG: “As I said, Scootering has always covered new scooter road tests, but there were just too many scooters for one magazine. The first ‘What Scooter?’ was produced in 1996; it featured 51 new scooters
available in the UK at the time, and also included numerous geared Lambretta and Vespa models. The three largest capacity scooters then were the (geared) Vespa PX200, (geared) Lambretta GP 200 and (automatic) Yamaha Majesty 250! “In 1997 another supplement was produced and ‘What Scooter What Price?’ became a two-page regular in Scootering listing all new scooters available at the time. In 1998 the supplement became biannual and Stuart launched ‘Scooter Trader’ as part of Scootering for the buying and selling of secondhand scooters and spares (a feature that Scootering had carried since it began in 1985, but now with a new, more flexible title). “By 2000 there was too much going on in the world of both new and classic scooters for one magazine, so Stuart took the bold step of launching a new bimonthly national magazine – Twist & Go. I say bold as he had no financial backing, he was a one-man band and was prepared to take on the big publishing
Andy where he’s happiest - on two wheels companies with their vast budgets who had been threatening to enter the scooter market as a new revenue of cash for them. I’m glad to say (as history has proven) that the underdog won. I think one deciding factor was that as scooterists, we all know far more about the subject matter than they did.” TG: So when did T&G get sold? AG: “Mortons bought it (and Scootering magazine) at the beginning of 2003, when for various reasons Stuart made the decision to sell. The first edition under the Mortons publishing
MAU TAKES UP THE HELM
The very first edition of T&G contained a huge variety of diverse content – and continues to do so in 2014
Not many people realise that What Scooter (now called Which Bike) was produced before T&G began
banner was January of that year – and my first issue as editor of Twist & Go.”
‘location’ near him in south-east London where we could test half a dozen off-road scooters in the 1990s (a popular style of ’ped back then). That was good mudplugging fun as an ever more ambitious off-road course was created to ride around. I’ve a feeling that may have ended with an official asking us to leave... “Racing five sports 50s to Hemel Hempstead and then creating a racetrack on private land was another good day out, and only one got broken – an Asian ped ended up with a twisted chassis and I don’t think it was crashed either, just made of cheese it seems. You could have a lot of fun on 50s in the old days, before restrictions were as tight as today. I got an old Piaggio NRG L/C 50 to read 62mph on its speedo and it may have set off a speed camera on a motorway as well. In fact I think it was on the same motorway that I got arrested for riding a BMW C1 roofed scooter without wearing a crash helmet (apparently the UK is not part of the EU when it comes to specific motorcycle regulations). “Then there was the Scarabeo race along the pavements of Lisbon to avoid being last bike and buying a round at the bar; also the duty-free booze and fags run Sticky and I did on a maxiscooter day trip from Dover... hmm...”
TG: Have you got any good memories to share? AG: “Yes, there are plenty, some probably best not mentioned! At the time Scootering was one of the few independent magazines, as was Fast Bikes magazine, and coincidentally we got on well with them – probably helped by the fact Sticky and I both lived in London where FB was based. As well as racing to get new scooters to test before the rivals had ragged the life out of them (more than one Italjet we went to collect was discovered to have bald tyres and broken panels!), we also did a few road tests with former FB staffers. “One ‘great’ idea was to take part in the ACU national rally as a road test for five 250cc maxi scooters (myself, Paul Blez, Sticky, Oli and Ole). Over an 18 hour ride it involved map reading, getting lost, very little sleep, more than one close shave, some dubious checkpointing, one casualty of all night raving, one speed freak with no sense of direction, and one wing mirror left at the Silverstone Grand Prix – and that’s before we mention writing-off an X9 a couple of days earlier, and the replacement scooter having a plugged tyre and flat battery for the 700 miles or so event. “Sticky and I used to regularly ride the 125 miles-or-so each way from London to Weston to test ride new bikes, and I’d wager that the A4 and M4 are possibly littered with Italjet Dragster mirrors and pillion seat pads from the two we had over a year on test. He also found a
TG: What was your ‘title’ with the mag? AG: “I think I’ve been everything from features writer, to assistant editor, to editor. I rarely made the tea though; Mungo used to do that at Weston – although there was every chance you’d end up with coffee.”
Mau has ridden some strange machinery since becoming T&G editor After Andy G took up the editor’s position at Scootering magazine in 2003, the void that was created was filled by Mau, who continues in this role to the present day. To be honest, I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I first became editor of Twist & Go. Prior to my arrival on the scene, I had been the editor of Classic Scooterist (a magazine I’d launched in the mid-1990s). Having made the decision to sell up to publisher, Mortons, after a bout of ill health, I was then asked to continue as editor of Classic Scooterist, but at the same time, be responsible for the future development of T&G (they had their own ideas for the future of the magazine). Initially this editorship role was only ever seen as being a temporary thing – but here I am, still here, after all these years. As with everything in life, there have been high or low points and during that time T&G has had to reinvent itself on more than one occasion. Looking back, the low point must have been the bubble bursting on once what had been a vibrant small capacity scooter market, resulting in us dipping our toes into other areas, in order to keep the magazine vibrant and interesting – some worked, and some didn’t. The low points have been offset by the highs. Memories of
racing at high speed down a mountain pass in the Austrian Alps, while helping a manufacturer set up the configuration of a new scooter model will stay with me forever. More recently, meeting our current PM, David Cameron, at a recent function is also memorable (completely unexpected, although I did wonder what the sniffer dogs were for at the time). Looking back over the years, probably the most significant (and noticeable) changes within the contents of T&G came during 2013 when we undertook a major change of direction, morphing from an ‘auto scooter’ magazine into one that is now ‘commuterfocused’ and encompassing all two-wheeled machines up to midrange capacity. It was a bit of a gamble at the time, but looking back now, it has certainly paid off and T&G is now established on a more stable footing than it has ever been before. It was further strengthened a year ago when Carli joined the team as a staff writer and brought with her a new younger and fresher approach to the magazine. So will T&G still be here after another 100 issues – you bet your bottom dollar it will (although by that time I will have long been put out to grass to make way for the next editor). I wish them luck, whoever they are – hope they’ll have more hair left than I’ll have at the end of my term in office... Mau
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Amazing Thailand
Thailand is a very popular destination for UK tourists – almost one million visit the Kingdom every year. From sunshine on the beaches to the varied delights of Bangkok and the remote rural peace of Chiang Mai and the Issan in the north, there really is something here for everyone. Steve MacGregor explains... The Honda Air Blade
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cooter and motorcycle hire is cheap and easily accessible in all areas and a scooter or small motorcycle is a great way to get around. I have been riding a Honda Air Blade in Thailand for almost a year, and it’s convenient, fun and cheap. However, the land of smiles can provide some unpleasant surprises for the unwary rider and it’s best to do some forward planning if you intend to ride here.
S
THE THAI EXPERIENCE The Thai approach to life is different and unique (even in Southeast Asia). Thailand is a Buddhist country and this belief permeates every part of daily life. Thais believe implicitly in the supernatural. In fact, there is no Thai word which equates to ‘supernatural’ – ghosts and spirits are simply accepted as a part of everyday life. After a Thai Airways accident in 2013, the managing director announced that a preliminary investigation indicated that evil spirits were partly to blame and that the company intended to improve safety by building an additional shrine at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. It’s difficult to imagine an announcement like that being greeted with anything other than derision elsewhere in the world, but it didn’t even cause raised eyebrows here. Why should you care when you’re buzzing along on your scooter? Well, it does lead to a certain fatalism among Thai drivers; a view that road deaths are inevitable and unavoidable simply because ‘when Buddha decides it’s your time to go – it’s time to go…’. It also means locals are as likely to concentrate on wearing amulets to ward off evil spirits, as to consider issues like the state of tyres and brakes. And finally the need to maintain the Karmic balance influences of the
Evil spirits are warded-off by this shrine at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Stray long-tailed macaque monkeys have overrun the town of Lop Buri
Thai attitude towards animals (entirely commendable). Thai’s treat stray animals better than their Asian neighbours. If you want to make yourself unpopular in Thailand, try being unpleasant to a stray dog. The downside is that Thailand is overrun with wandering animals. The town of Lopburi is so overrun with longtailed macaque monkeys that buildings are surrounded by mesh screens to keep the marauding primates out – in a nice role reversal, humans live in cages while monkeys watch from outside. Add to this an eclectic approach to road safety. The Centre for Road Safety (CRS) announced a major campaign to reduce road accidents. On one notorious road, measures including arranging monk incantations (to ward off evil spirits) and renaming part of the road (the original name was deemed unlucky, and a possible contributory factor in the high death toll). The CRS announced the road safety effort had been successful when just 336 people were killed and 3345 seriously injured on Thai roads during the seven day holiday. In addition to the Thai attitude to life, there are a number of additional contributory factors. All vehicles undergo an annual safety check, theoretically similar to the UK MoT. However, when I put my Air Blade in for this, it took less than a minute and seemed to consist of checking I had two wheels, and giving the bars a shake to see if anything fell off. There was no check of tyres, brakes, lights or anything else. Judging by the state of some vehicles on the roads, I presume the car inspection is equally relaxed. Many Thai drivers also have limited driving skills. The practical part of the Thai driving test involves driving forward, backward and parking. The proportion of cars to scooters is much higher here than many Asian countries following a Government scheme to encourage first-time car ownership. This was wildly successful, so there are large numbers of inexperienced drivers on the road. There’s also almost no effective speed limit enforcement or dangerous driving laws; trucks overturn and shed their loads with alarming frequency.
THE RIDING EXPERIENCE Thailand is a dangerous place to ride. Around 30 people die every day in motorcycle and scooter accidents and these are also the single largest cause of death and injury for tourists. On the holiday island of Phuket, at least one tourist dies each week and many more are seriously injured. In a recent study, the Michigan Transportation Research Institute assessed Thailand as the second
most dangerous place on the planet for road users (Namibia was rated worse). Thailand isn’t a place for the inexperienced and unless you’re confident in your bike handling, I wouldn’t recommend riding here. However, riding a scooter in Thailand can be exhilaratingly anarchic. Scooters use short-cuts unavailable to four-wheeled traffic, zipping along pavements, over railway lines and narrow, rickety bridges and riding on the wrong side of the road (even on motorways). There are also large numbers of motorcycle taxi drivers, recognisable by their coloured tabards. Most are awesomely good riders. If you want to find out how good you really are, try following one of these guys though dense traffic. They almost never come to a halt, finding tiny gaps and utilising every inch of both sides of the road (and pavements, pedestrian routes, garage forecourts and even crowded markets). Most scooter riders are amazingly proficient. Many start riding at the age of 12 or earlier. Recently I was carefully negotiating a narrow wooden bridge over a canal on my scooter. The bridge was about five feet wide, made of uneven, widely spaced, loose wooden slats and there were no guardrails. As I wobbled nervously across, I was overtaken by a scooter ridden by a middle-aged woman. One child was standing on the footboards in front, another on the seat behind and a basket of struggling ducks was strapped over the rear light. She effortlessly flicked her ancient Honda stepthru past me, coming within inches of the edge and probably wondering why the stupid farang (foreigner) was going so slowly. Don’t bother trying to keep up with locals. Ride at your own pace and accept that (initially at least) you will be passed by just about everyone. You should also be aware that in the event of accident, regardless of circumstances, you’ll be at fault. The Thai police and judicial system can be brutally arbitrary and sometimes predicated on the notion that the farang is always wrong. There have been many examples of tourists involved in accidents which were clearly the fault of locals, but where the tourist was found responsible. In some cases, many thousands of pounds have been demanded in compensation, and passports confiscated or tourists held in custody until this is paid. My advice is that if you’re involved in a minor accident, and a local demands compensation, apologise, haggle, pay it and leave. I recently crashed my scooter when a mangy stray dog ran under my front wheel without warning. I did hit the dog, though it didn’t appear to be badly hurt and ran off squealing. As I lay in
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READERS’ FREE ADS AJS 250 CSR
1963, for restoration, non runner, auto advance unit broke, MoT Oct, recently used regularly, Sorn, offers around £1000. Tel. 01427 884209. Retford, Notts.
HONDA CBF 125
2010, reliable, excellent fuel economy, one owner from new, full s/h, completely std, tax Feb 2015, MoT Dec 2014, £1350 ono. Tel. 07772 085662. Berks.
HONDA RS 250
1981, part completed to cafe racer, needs battery and work to complete, c/w orig bits, £150. Tel. 0191 3884084. Durham.
PRO STREET 300
Single down tube frame, S&S 113, braided lines, prof built and wired, custom paint work, apple candy red. Tel. John 07843 381623. Gtr London.
SUZUKI GSX 250
1980, 17,600 miles, good condition, still used, tax/MoT May 2015, V5 plus MoTs, £645 ono. Tel. Alan 01723 859244. N Yorks.
VESPA GTS
Supersport 125 LE, immac, only used on dry days and kept in a garage, 62 plate, Whitewall tyres, alarm fitted, £2800. Tel. 07730 281478. Glasgow.
118 www.twistngo.com
APRILIA RSV-R MILLE
V-Twin, 2000 reg, Arrow twin race exhausts, full MoT, tax Sept 14, an amazing bike to ride, 18k miles, £2400 ono. Tel. 07790 892420. N Yorks.
HONDA CX 500
EC Eurosport, 1983, A reg, black, only 13.5k miles, serviced regularly, totally original, exc cond, £3995. Tel. 07859 919598. N Yorks.
HONDA SH300I
Silver, one owner, vgc, part s/h, new r/tyre, Honda top box, and Givi airflow screen, 8,609 miles, £2400 ono. Tel. 07919 337432. Gtr Man
SCOOTER - TRIUMPH TINA
1964, classic, part restored, v near ready to return to road, nice collector, sale due to working away. Priced to sell. Tel. 07597 123507. Bristol, Avon.
VESPA COLLEGE S125
Limited Edition, red/white, 3 yrs old, minimal wear and tear, 1800 miles, Sorned, exc cond, top box, rack, can include helmet, £1800. Tel. 07734 590919.
VESPA GT60
Ltd Edit Vespa, 1947, prototype grey, exc cond and 20,000 km on clock, with the addition of a back box, matching colour, £6000. 07939 008531. London.
DERBI CITY CROSS 125
59 plate, excellent running order, t&t, all paperwork in order, clean, 6k, £1200 ono. Tel. 07929 557494. Notts.
HONDA CX 500
Early Z model, v original, good running order, MoT, carrier rack, good tyres, brakes etc, ride or restore, £650. Tel. 07949 653017. Staffs
LEXMOTO 125 CBR
125R replica, great condition, thousands spent, 62 plate, learner legal. Tel. 01472 475242. Lincs.
SUZUKI BANDIT
650cc, 2010 reg, 10,700 miles, show cond, serviced, new tyres, 12 mths’ MoT, 6 mths’ tax, one v careful mature owner, £2500. Tel. 01691 661208. Shrops.
VESPA GTS 250IE
2008, silver, MoT and tax till Mar 15, 9,500 miles, vgc, regular Piaggio service, only ridden Spring and Summer, £2500 ono. Tel. 01507 527264. Lincs.
VESPA LX 125
Low mileage, 2007, black, exc cond, £1600. Tel. 07768 925325. High Wycombe.
GILERA FXR 180
1998, 3,279 genuine miles, totally original, garaged from new, one owner, £1200 ono. Tel. 01908 370555 anytime. Bucks.
HONDA FORESIGHT 250
250cc scooter, 2001,7000 miles, very very clean, Givi top box, full tax and test, £1295. Tel. 01751 431409. N Yorks.
PIAGGIO X10
One year old, exc cond, 9000 miles on clock, reduced for quick sale, full s/h, £3500. Tel. 07986 216346. Bracknell.
SUZUKI DL 650
V-Strom, late 2011 (latest model), full dealer s/h, engine bars, h/guards, side boxes, 11,500 miles, £3995. Tel. 07970 395684. Cambs.
VESPA GTS 300
Supersport, rare opportunity to buy a stand-out scooter, matt black with orange decals, Vespa flyscreen, just had first service, £3400. 07920 570235. Leeds.
YAMAHA CS 50
Jog RR, 2010, prof serviced, few scratches, 4 mths’ tax, MoT, new tyres and exhaust, £800. Tel. 07771 825135. St Albans.
HONDA CB 500
1999, twin screen, top box, immac condition, 10 months’ MoT and tax, perfect machine, 20k miles, £1500. Tel. 01354 610269. Cambs.
HONDA MBX 125
1984/B, great unmodified cond, 10 mths’ t&t, p/coated frame and repaint, appreciating classic, re-live your youth, £1795 ovno Tel. 07768 242146. Warks.
PIAGGIO X9
Rev and Go scooter, 250cc, W reg, (2000), fully serviced, new tyres, clean and tidy, (23k miles), top box holds 2 helmets, £895 ovno Tel. 07873 721310. Leics.
SUZUKI GS 250T
1982, (X), runner, parked up since 03, all there, £550. Tel. 01291 423392. Chepstow
VESPA GTS 300
Super, 2012, white, excellent example, under 800 miles, hardly used, never ridden in the rain, flyscreen, 12 mths’ tax, £3200. Tel. 07774 262702. Kent.
YAMAHA VIRAGO XV 250
2005, black, 15,889 miles, new tax and MoT, garaged, an immaculate lightweight cruiser, £1500. Tel. 07836 316142. Surrey.