On Two Wheels - Issue 4

NEWS

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Django scooter range upgraded With five different models to choose from, Peugeot’s Django scooter has been upgraded with the new ‘EasyMotion’ engine and SBC linked braking across the model range.

Designed to Euro 4 emissions regulations, the 125cc ‘EasyMotion’ engine is fuel injected and returns 104mpg tested under World Motorcycle Test Cycle conditions, according to Peugeot.

The Synchro Braking Concept now comes as standard across all models in the Django 125 range. Applying the left lever activates the SBC, which distributes braking effort simultaneously between the 200mm front disc brake and 170mm disc at the rear, slowing the scooter without locking the wheels or diving at the front. Should you need to make an emergency stop, using the right-hand lever adds extra power to the front brake.

• Info: www.peugeotscooters.co.uk

KYMCO importer ceases trading MASCO, the UK distributor of Taiwanese KYMCO scooters and motorcycles, abruptly closed its doors on July 4, 2017.

MASCO began representing KYMCO in 1998 and has carved out an excellent reputation over the last 19 years with its value-formoney scooters and motorcycles.

In 2016, close to 1000 KYMCO bikes were UK-registered.

Insolvency practitioner Moorfields has been brought in to act on the Shrewsbury-based brand’s behalf in what managing director Ian Kidson reportedly described as a “liquidation process”.

Tucano Urbano appoints new UK brand manager Italian-based apparel and accessory manufacturer Tucano Urbano has appointed Rachel Fuller as its new UK country manager.

Rachel is passionate about both motorcycles and scooters. When she’s not visiting dealers nationwide, she can be found at the British Superbike rounds, Motorcycle Live and Expo

Village pub allegedly tells bikers they have been banned by brewery Motorcyclists claim they have been banned from The Royal Oak at Ulley, near Rotherham.

The pub is owned by Samuel Smith's brewery, based in Tadcaster in North Yorkshire. The independent brewery, which has around 200 pubs, recently banned people from swearing on its premises – and now biker Mark Smith has been told he will no longer be served at The Royal Oak. “Before I even got to the car park a guy greeted me and said ‘we’re not allowed in, bikers are barred. I parked-up and was getting my gear

On Two Wheels

On2Wheels, The Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR Tel: 01507 529529 Email: editor@o2w.co.uk On2Wheels is published by Mortons Media Group Ltd and printed by Mortons Print

off when a staff member came out and said ‘I can’t serve you, we’ve barred bikes’.” The staff member told Mark the decision came from the brewery and that no reason to bar him and other bikers was given.

Black’s Solicitors in Leeds said bikers were not a ‘protected group’ under the Equality Act, meaning it’s not against the law for the brewery to ban a group of bikers from its pubs.

We’ve contacted Samuel Smith’s Brewery for further clarification – but it had not commented at the time of going to press.

Editor: Mau Spencer Publisher: Dan Savage Staff writer: Ross Mowbray Contributors: Dave Bell, Gary Chapman, Paul Fincham, Ryan Goodyear, Viv King, ‘Chef Prendergast, Jonathan Schofield. Apologies to anyone we’ve forgotten.

Editorial design: Fran Lovely Picture desk: Paul Fincham, Jonathan Schofield, Angie Sisestean Production editor: Dan Sharp Divisional ad manager: Martin Freeman 01507 529538 Advertising: Zoe Thurling 01507 529412 Marketing manager: Charlotte Park Commercial director: Nigel Hole Customer services number: 01507 529529 Telephone lines are open Monday-Friday 8.30am-7pm, Saturday 8.30am-12.30pm

Shows or at various motorcycle events. She said: “I’m looking forward to the new experiences working with Tucano Urbano will bring, especially with the presentation of the new Tucano Urbano winter apparel collection and the new innovative Termoscud® PRO, both of which I will be introducing to the UK shortly”.

KSR replacement parts Venhill has introduced replacement braided brake lines and cables for KSR Moto’s range of 125cc bikes and scooters.

Powerhose Plus braided brake line kits come in a choice of colours and include fittings, bolts, connectors and washers; banjos and bolts are offered in polished stainless or chrome-plated steel.

Replacement cables also come in a range of colours including black, blue, green, yellow, orange and red, with a choice of fittings in aluminium or zinc-plated steel.

Kits are available for the KSR Code, GRS, Worx, and TW125 models. Prices start at £15.58 for cables and £26.30 for brake lines (all including VAT).

• Info: www.venhill.co.uk / 01306 885111

Lambretta UK importer announced – models due in December

The latest Lambretta scooter models will be distributed in the UK and Ireland by the MotoGB group. Initial stock will arrive early December 2017 and will hopefully be with dealers prior to Christmas.

MotoGB is the UK’s largest independent importer and distributor of motorcycles and scooters, including brands such as Royal Enfield, Benelli, SYM, FB Mondial, Daelim, Hyosung and Keeway. MotoGB is a family-owned company which also has around 10 franchised retail outlets in the North West.

Steve Oliver general manager of MotoGB says: “This is a real coup for us as Lambretta is the epitome of scootering both past and present. These machines hark back to a golden era of scootering but today’s Lambretta range is also thoroughly modern and reliable.

These beautiful scooters are not just for the older generation, keen to recall the days of their youth, but a Lambretta is also a classicallystyled machine which is perfect for riders of any age to enjoy, whether they commute daily on two wheels or simply enjoy a ride at the weekend.”

DEALERS (& FUTURE CUSTOMERS) WANTED Steve adds: “We want Lambretta dealers and owners both past and present to call us now in order that we may provide the very best levels of support to them.

We will also be looking to appoint proactive dealers in many areas.”

THE WORLD’S STRONGEST DENIM?

Saint has unveiled its brand-new Unbreakable range, and claims that it is the world’s first single layer protection for motorcyclists.

Saint’s Unbreakable clothing line is created by stretching and blending industrial and military Dyneema fibres with merino and cotton. If you’ve not heard of Dyneema fibre technology before – it’s used by the UK and USA military for both personal and vehicle armour, and is woven through carbon fibre to further increase strength, resistance and durability.

Saint said: “We’re passionate about our motorbikes, but tired of compromising looks for safety, or safety for fashion.

Saint apparel delivers great freedom and form, with world first single layer protection. With no bulky layers or liners, we provide the very best in strength and impact abrasion resistant denim, while maintaining a classic style.”

The denim offers (pretty much) the same protection as leather, offering about 3.7 seconds of abrasion resistance – while being cooler, lighter and more flexible than current denim-based bike jeans. The Model 1 range features 66% blended Dyneema fibres on all impact zones, and a 10% blend through the rest of the item, ensuring protection when (and where) you need it most. It’s been thoroughly tested too, proving its 360º torsional strength while meeting European CE standards.

Saint isn’t stopping there though – it’s hard at work, further developing this innovative blend of materials, and plans to include a ‘nano-spherical finish’ to make the denim water-repellent, to further improve the stretch of the material, and to increase the use of Dyneema by up to 30%.

For more information about the Unbreakable range, and to check out a brilliant video showing the ‘Unbreakable’ material withstanding a range of abuse, from a belt sander to a knife, visited the company’s website.

• Info: www.saint.cc

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Yamaha’s all-new X-MAX 400 Yamaha has announced the addition of the new X-MAX 400 to its sport scooter range – and it reckons the latest model runs, handles, feels and looks better than ever before.

Yamaha claims the X-MAX 400 is the perfect commuter scooter to nip through traffic in towns or cities – and its 400cc engine gives you the power to cruise at speed too.

It’s undeniably a top spec machine for its class – featuring a traction control system and a smart key ignition system. It’s also equipped with motorcycle-style front forks for improved handling; and there’s dual 267mm front disc brakes with ABS for stopping, a parking brake and front and rear LED lights to help you be more visible out on the road.

The X-MAX 400 also features an impressive underseat storage area, with interior lighting, and a tooladjustable two-position screen and adjustable handlebars.

If you’re looking for a refined scooter to tackle some serious miles, check-o out t he new 2017 X-M M A X 400.

• Info: www.yamaha-motor.eu/uk

X-MAX 400

NEW METAL

A quick glance at some of the latest UK arrivals.

The Suzuki GSX range

The new GSX leaner-llegal and A2 licence ranges are set to arrive in UK dealerships in September.

GSX-S125

The GSX-S The S125 (£3699) shares much w it h its spor t ier sibling, using the same engine to offer the best powerto-weight ratio and acceleration performance in the naked 125cc class.

Suzuki GB marketing manager Rob Cooper said: “The new GSX-R125 means sportsbike fans getting into motorcycling for the first time can join the largest family of sportsbikes in the world. But it’s not only new riders who’ll enjoy them, with both offering engine performance to please experienced riders that are perhaps looking for a small bike for city use.”

If you haven’t got £4000 in cash, you can take out a finance deal through Suzuki. With £977.86 deposit, the GSX-R125 works out at £75 per month over 48 months, while the GSX-S125 is £69 per month over the same period with £925.29 deposit.

GSX-R125

Drawing inspiration from larger capacity GSX-Rs, the new GSX-R125 5 (£3999) claims the best power-toweight ratio and acceleration performance in the 125cc sportsbike class.

Its single-cylinder bore is plated with Suzuki’s own, race-proven, nickel-phosphorus-silicon-carbide, while a big-bore, 32mm throttle body and advanced, six-sensor, four-hole fuel injector work to optimise fuel delivery. Setting the new GSX-R apart is a double overhead camshaft engine design (DOHC), helping to improve airflow at higher rpm. There’s also a large, 4.3 litre airbox to further increase performance.

The slim, lightweight bodywork aligns it with Suzuki’s GSX-R racing

family and helps it achieve the lightest weight in its class (134kg) which helps it get off the line quickly, while contributing to ease of use and fuel economy.

There’s also a new keyless ignition system, along with Suzuki’s easy-start system and a full LCD dash displaying fuel gauge, clock, and gear position indicator, alongside speedo, tacho, and odometers, and an oil change indicator light. It also has a stacked, full LED headlight and LED tail-lights.

GSX-250R The A2 licence 248cc parallel twin will go on sale at £4299. It combines aggressive, sport styling and performance with comfort and ease of use – helping to make it as at home in city traffic as it is on twisty B-roads.

The engine gives optimum performance at low-to-midrange revs, producing 23.4Nm of torque at 6500rpm and peak power of 25PS at 8000rpm. Intake valves optimise airflow into the combustion chamber, helping to improve performance while reducing emissions – and a new two-into-one exhaust system further enhances midrange performance.

The clip-on handlebars are positioned primarily for a comfortable ride. A full LCD dash offers a range of information, including gear-position indicator, fuel gauge, and clock.

Pay £1500 deposit, then £90.22 per month (over 36 months) and own the bike at the end of the term.

• Info: www.suzuki.co.uk

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NEW PRODUCTS

Here’s a small selection of the latest clothing and other products just released

Oxford XA6 alarm disc lock

Helios and Shamal summer gloves RRP: £26.90-£59.90 (incl VAT) | Colours: various according to style | Sizes: S to 3XL

The Helios and Shamal glove ranges have been developed for both urban and touring use; they come with touch screen technology (the use of tactile devices while the gloves are on).

The Helios range has been designed with long distance summer season riding in mind and the gloves are constructed in a combination of spandex, leather and mesh that helps protect the hand in all areas of possible impact. Inside, they feature a polyester mesh lining, adjusted by hook and loop fastening. They are available in grey/black and yellow/black in sizes S to 3XL. The Shamal has large ventilation areas to keep hands dry even on the hottest days and its EVA injected fabric provides knuckle protection. The palm is constructed from microfibre and the lining is polyester mesh; they adjust in the same way as the Helios gloves. They are available in fluo yellow/ black/grey and white/grey/black.

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

It’s not just tough; it’s loud too – emitting a 110dB alarm if it comes under attack. Oxford says it has been tested under attack conditions, so you can rest assured that it’ll perform when you need it to.

It has a USB-rechargeable lithium CR2 long-life battery, comes with three keys (there’s a replacement key service available too, if you lose one)

and most importantly Oxford reckon it’ll fit most bikes and almost every type of scooter.

• Info: www.oxford products.com

Envy ladies leggings RRP: £149.99 | Colours: Black | Sizes: 4-22 (Short, Regular and Long) Bull-It’s armoured Envy leggings are made in conjunction with Covec, a company focused on ‘Technical Textiles’ made from yarns of synthetic fibres mixed with natural fibres. The leggings are armoured with Covec’s new Webtech liner, offering high abrasion resistance and a low profile design.

Covec is a laminated construction consisting of around 300 to 750gsm knitted textiles made of high performance fibres.

The fibres offer strength, density and a softer knitted feel – while managing to outperform the highest reported figures seen in motorcycle jeans, scoring 7.97

Nitro N2000 Pioneer full-face helmet RRP: £59.99 | Colours: Black/White/ Silver, Black/White/Blue, Black/ White/Red, Black/Yellow/Red | Sizes: XS – 2XL

RRP: £49.99 | Colours: Yellow/Black The Oxford XA6 alarmed disc lock is a strong, compact and convenient solution to help keep your bike safe. It features a tough alloy hardened 6mm locking pin, a twin spar lock chassis for double strength and cut resistance, and you’ll get a minder cable and attachment eye too (so you won’t forget it’s on there and damage your disc).

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seconds under CE EN 13595-1 test conditions. They also feature a Covec thermal barrier internally, to prevent heat transfer from road friction in the event of a crash.

The Envy ladies leggings are constructed specifically for motorcycle use with a four-way stretch outer. There’s also reinforced stretch knee panels with pockets for additional armour, triple-stitch seam construction and high visibility black reflective side seams.

They also feature loops for an optional belt, an embroidered Bull-it logo on the waistband and two front pockets.

• Info: www.oxfordproducts.com

The all-new Pioneer N2000 full-face lid offers design and premium specifications for a budget price.

It’s made from a custom designed polycarbonate injected shell and meets current ECE 22.05 standards. It also boasts an ultra-comfort fit liner system.

Ventilation is a key feature, with the N200 boasting dual-position chin bar ventilation, dual brow ventilation and dual rear exhaust vents (fully adjustable), along with the Pinlock prepared, injection moulded anti-fog 3D visor with an anti-scratch coating. It also comes with a micrometric fastening buckle which offers adjustability over fit.

• Info: www.nit rorider.com

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A1 LICENCE

FIRST RIDE

Bullit Hero 125 Retro-styled scrambler on a budget.

The first time I rode the 2017 Bullit Hero 125 was on a soaking wet summer’s day, but the retro-styled scrambler still managed to put a huge smile on my face. I love its styling, which pays homage to classic British motorcycle design of the 60s – but it doesn’t just look good, this bike has a lot going for it.

SPECIFICATION

Bullit Hero 125 ENGINE: 125cc SOHC air-cooled twin-valve, 4-stroke, 5-speed SEAT HEIGHT: 860mm WEIGHT: 121kg TANK CAPACITY: 9 litres PRICE: £2499 (OTR) CONTACT: www.bullitmotorcycles.com O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

Deceptive looks

As a 6ft 1in larger-than-average human being, I expected this 125 to feel disproportionately small and make me look like a giant, but, I actually found the ergonomics of the sitting position very comfortable, with its 86cm ride height offering a deceptively roomy ride. The wide handlebars and easy to reach gear lever were a pleasure to use, but, some of the instruments did feel quite tightly packed together – and as I

wear an XL glove, I initially found myself tapping the horn when going for the indicators. After a few rides, I re-calibrated my hand movement and stopped telling everybody that I was turning with a quick pip of the horn and flashing indicator. Saying that, the throaty exhaust note goes some way to letting everyone know you are on your way – and what a satisfying sound that is. I kept rolling off the throttle just to hear the exhaust gargle and crackle. The dials are simple yet informative, with the speedometer in kilometres. The indicator, neutral and fuel light are small but easy enough to see at a glance.

Forward thinking

The Hero has some well thought-out design features, such as its bash plate behind the footrest and under the front forks, in addition to an engine guard, each adding that extra bit of style – which should allow the underside of the Hero to handle a bruising in a more off-road setting.

The Kingstone knobbly tyres contribute to the Hero’s scrambler styling. Admittedly, I can’t imagine I’ll be taking it off-road much, but they look great – and at the speed you’re doing on the roads (around 45mph from the 125cc four-stroke air-cooled 11.5bhp engine) the tyres don’t take anything away from the on-road handling. In fact, I found

myself just optimising the corner speed and not letting off on all my favourite corners – after all, I’m not going to be breaking any speed limits on the open road. When I had to slow, the brakes where strong and able, pulling me up with confidence.

The Bullit brand is imported from Dutch company Mooof which was founded in 2005; it also supplies the Neco and Beaufort brands for the UK market. But back to the Bullit Hero – if its looks are something you appreciate, then I’d recommend you get yourself booked in for a test ride.

By the time you get off the bike, you’ll have a smile from ear-to-ear and you’ll be looking for an excuse to get back on. It may not be the quickest 125cc on the market, but it’s great looking and great fun.

Words: Paul Fincham Images: Matt Hull

10 www.o2w.co.uk

Legal Q&A Our specialist motoring solicitor, Andrew Prendergast, guides you through your legal troubles.

Q

I parked my bike outside the supermarket while I popped in to get some cheese (fajita night)! It’s a bright green Kwak – not exactly subtle. But a little boy (about seven years old) dented my Akrapovic exhaust can falling off his bicycle. The boy’s mum apologised, but I have a dented exhaust that will cost money to make good. I know the family, so can I make a claim against them? Surely his parents should have to pay?

GETTING ON TWO WHEELS Part 4

Module 2 motorcycle test

Thinking about getting on two wheels? This step-by-step guide will cover compulsory basic training, the motorcycle theory test, and Module 1 and Module 2 of the (full) motorcycle test.

Thanks

■ I’d like to say a huge thank you to Walt and Bill from WOLTS Motorcycle Training in Lincoln for their advice and guidance, and for helping to get me through my test first time. I opted for their Direct Access training course – and had two intensive days’ training before taking my test.

If you’re looking for some training in the area, I couldn’t recommend them enough.

For more information – visit www.webbsoflincoln.co.uk

A

You could bring a claim in a court of law, but before contemplating that I’d start with a polite tap on the door to see what mum’s response is, as she may just pay for the damage. I’d also ask if they have any house insurance, as that may well pay out for the dented can.

If you do issue court proceedings I’d think carefully before spending your hardearned cash on solicitors. While you may have a good claim, it’s likely this would be allocated to what’s known as the ‘Small Claims Track’ because the financial value of your claim is below £10,000. The ‘Small Claim Track’ is designed so people may bring their own claims without the use of a lawyer. If you do need to use a lawyer, the disadvantage is that it would be unlikely you’d obtain a costs order against the other side. The likelihood is that legal costs will equal a large part of, or exceed the amount you’re claiming. Lastly, if he’s a seven-year-old boy, with no money and his parents don’t have house insurance, you could get a court order, but never actually get paid.

The O2W legal column is compiled by managing partner Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast and his bike-riding barristers and solicitors at White Dalton Motorcycle Solicitors.

The firm deals with personal injury claims and its sister company, Motor Defence Solicitors, deals with motoring offences. White Dalton lawyers have a vast knowledge of bike law – and they have full bike licences, too. They don’t act for insurance companies or the prosecution.

White Dalton is Britain’s premier specialist motorcycle law practice, and if its professionals don’t know the answer to your question there probably isn’t one.

Don’t rely on the advice from your insurance-appointed solicitor – get proper independent advice.

• For road traffic offences call the Motor Defence solicitors on 0800 280 0912. For non-offence cases call White Dalton motorcycle solicitors on 0800 783 6191.

NEED ADVICE?

If you need advice on a bikingrelated legal question or query, email mail@whitedalton.co.uk The best Q&A will be published in O2W, in confidence, of course.

Things to note:

Alright? My name’s Ross and I’m a staff writer for On2Wheels. I’ve just passed my full motorcycle test – so I have a pretty good idea of just how daunting a looming test date can be.

I wanted to try and break down the process, share some of my thoughts and experiences and hopefully ease some of your worries while I’m at it.

This time we’re looking at the Module 2 test – the final step to getting your hands on a full licence.

Module 2 motorcycle test

During your Module 2 test you’ll be judged on your ability to ride safely on the road, in accordance with the Highway Code – and it’ll take around an hour to complete.

The test is broken down into four separate segments, which are: ■ An eyesight check ■ ‘Show me, tell me’ vehicle safety questions ■ Road riding ■ Independent riding Right, let’s get into specifics. For the eyesight check you’ll be expected to read a number plate from a distance of 20.5m. You’ll fail your test if you fail the eyesight check – and for the ‘show me, tell me’ part of the test, you’ll be asked a couple of questions relating to vehicle safety, which test that you know how to carry out basic safety checks.

Now it’s time to get out on the road.

Your examiner will hook you up with a one-way communication system so they can give you directions – and away you go. Throughout the duration of the test, you’ll be asked to carry out normal stops, an angle start (pulling out from behind a parked vehicle) and a hill start (where possible).

You’ll also have to undertake about 10 minutes of independent riding, which is designed to assess your

ability to ride safely while making your own decisions. Don’t worry though, if you forget the instructions, you can ask the instructor to repeat the directions if you do – and you won’t fail the test if you manage to go off the route either, providing your react appropriately.

Throughout the test, your examiner will make a note of dangerous faults – these involve actual danger to you, the examiner, the public or property; serious faults – which are potentially dangerous; and riding faults – which aren’t necessarily dangerous, but could become serious if you keep making the same mistake.

You’ll pass Module 2 if you make no serious or dangerous faults (or ‘majors’) and no more than 10 riding faults (or ‘minors’). Just remember that the test is simply about showing that you have full control over the motorcycle, while constantly assessing your environment for risks. If you do, you should be fine.

If you’ve already been out on the road regularly (riding on a CBT certificate), you should already be pretty well equipped to deal with the Module 2 test – but no matter what

your level of experience is, make sure you put in the practice and get some proper training in (to ensure any bad habits are picked up and worked on in time for your test).

If you pass, the examiner will tell you what faults you made, if any, and give you a pass certificate which you’ll need to take with you to your module two test. If you don’t pass, you’ll have to book another test (at least 10 days later, and try again).

■ Make sure you’re kitted-out with the appropriate safety gear.

Although you’re not officially being graded on what you’re wearing, you need to ensure your gear meets your examiner's expectations.

■ Make sure you’ve got your UK photocard driving licence, CBT certificate, and theory and Module 1 pass certificates with you.

■ Brush up on your Highway Code – you need to know what is expected of you to be considered safe on the road.

■ Try and relax. You know what you need to do, so just ride as you would normally and try to forget that the examiner is scrutineering your every move.

Booking your test

To book your Module 2 motorcycle test at a specialist centre near your, visit: www.dvsa.co.uk – or, alternatively, ask your trainer to book you in. It’ll cost £75 if you take it in the week or £88.50 if you take the test on a Saturday.

Words: Ross Images: Gary Chapman

Here’s Ross enjoying the freedom of the open road on an A2 restricted Triumph Street Twin.

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FIRST RIDE

A1

FB Mondial HPS 125cc

LICENCE

The aim of FB Mondial owner Conte Bosellie and his business partner Cesare Galli (Pelpi International) was to revive the FB Mondial brand which had lain dormant since the 1970s.

The pair started designing the prototypes of their first bike in 2014 (later to become the HPS 125 and 250 versions which were unveiled in 2016) and brought together the perfect combination of vintage, retro-styled design with up-to-date technology, such as electronic ignition and a liquid-cooled fourvalve 125CC DOHC engine.

INITIAL IMPRESSIONS

Classic vintage styling through and through, with Italian tan leather, chrome mudguards, twin stainless exhausts, a matt gunmetal tank and lower fender, plus subtle racing stripes (a hint of Kenny Roberts?) and multi-spoke chrome wheels. The HPS is a real looker guaranteeing a head-turn and a compliment, along with a little confusion and surprise.

Why confusion and surprise? Not only does it look like it belongs in a different decade (a good thing, for me), but it also looks like it’s the home for a much bigger engine – which is why I always got raised eyebrows when I revealed it was a 125.

START-UP

A turn of the ignition key and the single pod digital display lights up, initially displaying the rev counter, speed, fuel gauge, engine temp and clock. A press of the starter button and the engine fires into life with the twin exhausts emitting a nice deep throaty note. It’s also worth noting that the bike only starts when in neutral and with the stand in the upright position.

ON THE ROAD

The riding position isn’t going to suit everyone; the footpegs sit pretty close to the exhausts and relatively high up on the bike which can make finding the rear brake pretty difficult and this can effect balance at low speeds; this is a small issue, but personally I found the position of the handlebars and seat (785mm) made the ride very comfortable.

The only downside was that the lack of screen/deflector meant you felt the full force of the wind at higher speeds – and staying on the subject of speed, the HPS has good low down torque, which helps on the town runs and pulling out at junctions, easily reaching 30-40mph in seconds. Open the throttle a little more and 60-70mph speeds are easily reached when putting all six gears to use; and it will sit there depending on wind condition.

I managed to clock-up 200 miles on the bike, both commuting through towns and country lanes and for leisure; it suited both uses very well, especially on some nice winding B-roads. This was all with the default suspension set-up, which I found perfect for my riding style. All-in-all, this bike became a firm favourite of mine, cosmetically and performancewise and is near-guaranteed to grab the attention of all who see it.

SPECIFICATION

FB Mondial HPS 125 ENGINE: 125, DOHC liquid-cooled, fuel-injected WEIGHT: 130kg FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 9 litres PRICE: £3500 CONTACT: www.fbmondial.co.uk O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

OVERALL

The HPS 125 is the perfect bike for cruising through town and guarantees head-turns – and it’ll put a smile on your face when you see your reflection in a shop window.

Performance-wise you’ll not be disappointed compared to other 125s; and you can rely on the engine allowing you to keep up with traffic and give you power throughout the rev range. You soon get used to the rear brake lever position and the riding position – but each rider is

different so I’d recommend trying before you buy to test comfort and suitability. It’s certainly not an entry-level 125 (and the price reflects upon this) but nothing matches the presence this bike gives off. All-in-all, if you have an eye for build quality, classic vintage styling paired with modern day technology and want to stand out from the other 125 riders, then this is the bike for you.

Words: Ryan Goodyear Images: Gary Chapman

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LIFE-SAVING TECHNOLOGY?

The world’s first motorcycle eCall system

German G electronics giant, digades GmbH, has rolled oout the world’s first motorcycle eCall system across EEurope. eCall technology is a European initiative that aaims to bring rapid assistance to motorists involved iin collisions anywhere in the EU.

The dguard d also l ffeatures a clever l theft warning function, which warns if your bike’s moved without your presence – and you’ll get a message straight to your smartphone. The app also sends you an alert and provides updated GPS data while your bike is on the move.

An eCall system will be mandatory on all new European cars and light vans from April 1, 2018, but there’s no such legal requirement for motorcycles as yet.

Th The dguard eCall system utilises ssophisticated sensor technology tto detect a crash and contact the eemergency services in seconds. The ssensor is a sophisticated bit of kit and works a bit like a magnetic field, w detecting a rider’s presence (or lack d of it) on the bike. The emergency o sservices are given an automated sspoken message, with the GPS co-ordinates of the accident. If the c iinjured rider is wearing a Bluetooth headset and is able to speak, then the dguard will connect the emergency call directly.

There’s a Deutsch Mobile Sim built into the module – on a roaming data contract, so it’ll connect to whichever provider is offering the strongest signal (which should minimise the risk of being caught out in a dead spot, without a signal).

It functions throughout Europe, with the exception of the Netherlands (due to a law which does not currently permit automated calls to be made to emergency services) and it’s capable of automatically communicating in 18 individual languages.

It also comes with a handlebarmounted SOS button, which allows a rider to call the emergency services for another person.

Importantly, an inadvertentlyplaced emergency call can be stopped within 15 seconds by pressing the button twice (or more).

To ensure that the dguard can reliably distinguish an accident, digades undertook three years of research and development, doing over 50,000 miles of testing in multiple countries.

The manufacturer also had to ensure that the device would continue to operate even under the most extreme conditions – and undertook crash tests at speeds of 60mph. The unit is housed in an aramid case that is capable of withstanding 300G of force, so digades is confident that it is capable of withstanding a crash at higher speeds too.

It costs £499 for the unit, SOS button, app and two years' SIM subscription - but fitting will cost around £50, depending on type of the bike and sensor location.

• Info: www.bikeittrade.com

The unit in situ Already on the German market, the dguard has a 100% success rate for all incidents detected.

www.o2w.co.uk 15

FIRST RIDE

Torrot Muvi twin battery

“Essential, dynamic, practical and lots of fun” is how Torrot describes the Muvi.

Is this a reasonable statement, or a marketing slogan designed to entice you in?

I admit I was expecting a lame lacklustre experience – more mobility scooter than what I got, as this lightweight, manoeuvrable Muvi had me smiling within the first few miles.

It’s no race machine and takes some getting used to (less noise than a spin drier), but once you’ve grasped that it’s pretty much silent, weighs only 86kg (including the twin 8kg batteries) and is brilliant in traffic, any thoughts of a basic mobility scooter are a distant memory.

Range

In the few days I’ve been able to ride the Muvi I’ve made excuses to do just that, racking-up a healthy 100 miles or so. The range you’ll get from a fully SPECIFICATION

Torrot Muvi ENGINE: Torrot brushless 48v, 4,1CV (3kw) / 35Nm MAX SPEED: City 28mph, Executive 47mph BATTERY: removable 2x 48v 25Ah LiNiCoMn RANGE: up to 68 miles WEIGHT: 85kg (battery included) CHARGER: 54.6v 5a double battery charger (5 hrs).

OPTIONAL: 54.6v 10a double battery charger

(2.5hrs).

PRICE: £4495 (£3596) CONTACT: www.torrot.com O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

charged battery depends on which of the two power modes you decide to use. In ECO mode the claimed range is 40 miles and a top speed of 30-33mph. In FULL mode, there’s a slightly quicker throttle response and a top speed of 45mph, but this affects your range, lowering it to a displayed 32. I’ve taken these displayed numbers as a challenge to be accepted and admit to not travelling too far, making looping journeys of six to eight miles to minimise the possibility of running the charge out completely and being stranded miles from home.

I’m happy to report that even giving the Muvi a spirited, hold the throttle open and keep going ride, I managed

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LICENCE 28 miles before I chickened out, swapping to ECO mode.

The Muvi has two separate 8kg batteries located under the seat which can be charged on the scooter, or removed with well-designed and sturdy handles to wherever your charging point is.

The Muvi looks just like a small, well-manufactured, mass-produced petrol bike; the main giveaway is the lack of exhaust, and from the front, the narrow tyres. The seating and riding position are as you’d expect – not cramped – and it comes with a handy bag hook on the front legshield. Also, the suspension coped with bumpy roads fantastically, so you’ll have little to complain about.

It also has Bluetooth interactivity (a strong statement – let’s say Bluetooth compatible app which connects with the latest smartphones so you can

change how your dash looks (three options) and how speed is displayed (kph or mph). You can also see ride stats, battery stats and even get online advice and support.

Ticking the boxes

I enjoyed my time on the Muvi; this scooter is a metropolis monster, beating congestion charges and costing a small amount to run. It ticks so many boxes that I cannot wait to see what Torrot have to offer in the future. It’s an easy-to-ride, fun city scoot. The only minor point (and I’m scraping the bottom of the barrel here) is that it’s a tad slow off the mark and feels like it could do with a little more pulling power from a standing start. This is no reason to not take this lightweight seriously. If you’re an urban commuter, or just want a way of getting around, it’s well worth a

look. It would fit perfectly on the back of a large motorhome for trips to the shops, or the beach.

The OTR price for the Muvi is £4495, but it qualifies for a 20% government discount, so actually ends up costing £3596. Now if you look at the cost of a year’s transport around London or Manchester, then I’d say yes.

Words: Jonathan Schofield Images: Gary Chapman

16 www.o2w.co.uk

FIRST RIDE

Zero tolerance

The future’s bright, the future’s electric (and eerily silent, too). O2W takes a look at two Zero e-bikes at different levels of the power range.

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Zero S The Zero S is the entry level model in the range, designed with urban commuters in mind.

The Streetfighter-styled S offers all the benefits of Zero’s electric technology, but wrapped up in a lower priced, lightweight package.

The 2017 model features a new, upgraded compact power pack that shaves 43kg off the weight, making the bike more nimble, flickable and fun to ride – plus, the space freed-up by the smaller battery provides a convenient, locking storage compartment. It also features a wider, stronger drive belt offering 19% more torque and an 11% increase in power.

SPECIFICATION

Zero S

ENGINE: Z-Force® 75-5 passively air-cooled, high efficiency, radial flux, interior permanent magnet, brushless motor MAX SPEED: 86mph BATTERY: Z-Force® Li-Ion intelligent integrated RANGE: 54 miles (claimed average) CHARGER: Standard 110v or 220v SEAT HEIGHT: 807mm WEIGHT: 142kg PRICE: £10,690 (excluding ULEV grant) CONTACT: www.zeromotorcycles.com/eu O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

First impressions

The Zero S is a naked sport bike stripped right back to the essentials.

The overall look is clean and stylish, if not a little sparse – but rest assured that everything on the bike contributes to performance in some way.

The faux fuel tank allows the machine to maintain a more traditional motorcycle form, and aside from the obvious omissions (exhausts in particular), the Zero S cleverly blends the necessary electric technology into a stylish motorcycleshaped package guaranteed to turn heads It comes in a bright yellow paint scheme, which is sure to get you noticed.

On the road

Straddling it for the first time, you’ll notice that the riding position is quite sporty, with your feet tucked backwards, encouraging you to lean forward over the tank. But it doesn’t go the whole hog, with its relatively upright Supermoto-style bars making it easy to get on with and throw into corners with confidence. The seat height is 807mm, and at 6ft 1in I could get my feet flat on the floor – it weighs

142kg (depending on battery options) so I found it easy to manoeuvre too.

It’s powered by a Z-Force 75-7 electric motor which delivers 31bhp at 4150rpm. The power-to-weight ratio suggests it was designed with cornering performance as a priority, as power and acceleration play second fiddle – but it’s still capable of reaching 86mph and can sustain 80mph depending on the power supply. It runs a clutchless directdrive system for smooth, instant acceleration, twist-and-go style.

It also feeds back torque to power regenerative braking, meaning that some kinetic energy is transferred back into electrical energy, offering what amounts to the electrical equivalent of engine braking (which is adjustable, through the app).

For stopping, there’s J-Juan calipers with 320mm and 240mm wave-cut brake discs at the front and rear respectively. Plus there’s a top-notch Bosch Gen 9 ABS module which will help keep you and the bike in check,

and they work well, pulling the bike up quickly and safely even under strenuous braking.

It has 41mm front USD forks and a centre-mounted, 40mm, coil-over rear monoshock, both of which are fully adjustable. I found the suspension really plush, soaking-up bumps on pothole-laden B-roads with ease. With 6.25in up front and 6.35in at the rear, the travel comes at the expense of slightly shorter riders, who may find clambering aboard a bit of a struggle.

Should I buy one?

The base-model Zero S with the 6.5kW power pack is priced at a shade over 10 grand, and jumps up to around 13 grand for the 13kW version – so it’s by no means a cheap motorcycle. Admittedly, you will be able to take advantage of the £1500 ULEV government grant and the price does include a two-year warranty on the bike, plus a fiveyear/100,000-mile warranty on the

power pack – but best of all, it’s only going to cost around a penny-permile to ride, and there’s no fuel to worry about, no oil to check or change and no routine powertrain maintenance to undertake.

So, if you’re looking to make your daily commute faster, more affordable and maybe even more fun, then check out the new Zero S electric motorcycle. I loved it.

Words: Ross Images: Matt Hull

Zero DSR Zero’s silent torquer.

The DSR’s got game. It’s got 116 games to be precise, pounding out of the electric motor, through the drive belt into the rear wheel and tyre. This transfers onto the road and you, the rider, into what can only be described as ‘a bloody great big smile’.

Yep, that’s 116lb-ft of torque, with no lag, no delay, no filter to sift out impurities (there aren’t any). It’s clean, quiet, twist and go gearless fun!

Zero has taken the electric motorcycle bar and raised it, pairing a 775amp controller to their Z-Force® motor. This has some very trick high temperature magnets within, that will withstand prolonged high speed use. The results are fast acceleration; not only will it give you goose bumps on the road, but it’s not unhappy on the loose stuff either.

Zero have given the rider the ability to tame the forces of nature that SPECIFICATION

Zero DSR

ENGINE: Z-Force® 75-7R passively air-cooled, high

efficiency, radial flux, interior permanent magnet, brushless motor MAX SPEED: 110mph BATTERY: Z-Force® Li-Ion intelligent integrated RANGE: 147 miles (city), 88 miles (55mph), 70 miles (70mph) CHARGER: Standard 110v or 220v SEAT HEIGHT: 840mm WEIGHT: 190kg (kerb) PRICE: from £15,690 (excluding ULEV grant) CONTACT: www.zeromotorcycles.com/eu O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

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reside within via an app which gives you options like limiting top speed and increasing, or decreasing torque output. There’s three basic modes, ‘Eco’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Custom’ with ‘Eco’ giving you the best range, thanks to a reduced torque setting and a 70mph top speed. ‘Sport’ mode gives greater torque, a 110mph top speed (not on the public highways, you know that’s naughty), but also a reduced range.

Then there’s ‘Custom’ mode where you can go to 110% on the settings and give your arms and sphincter a proper workout with acceleration so brutal you’ll wonder how the front wheel stays on the road; on the other hand, if you want to really stretch the battery range you can wind everything back.

It’s also got regen on the brakes and motor, so as you slow, a small charge goes back into the battery, acting as a virtual engine braking system.

Zero has worked in close collaboration with Showa to come up with a set of front fork suspension units that cope fantastically with road riding as well as off-road and it’s fully adjustable. The rear unit is also adjustable and in conjunction with the sculpted comfy seat, you’ll soon

find that the battery goes flat well before your backside does.

Range

Due to advances in battery tech and the software that determines where and what the stored energy is used on, Zero claims a town mileage in excess of 180 miles. We haven’t been able to corroborate this, but after a spirited 44 mile commute in ‘Sport’ mode I had 40% battery power left from a full charge. On the open road in normal traffic if you ride conservatively, you’d get close to a safe 80-90 miles before having to panic about finding a plug.

Now if Zero needs to make an alteration for the UK market, it’s the charger. The main charger built into the bike connects to a standard wall socket with a 13amp-fused 2.5m version of what looks like a kettle lead.

From flat it takes roughly eight hours to fully charge the battery, or you can

invest in an optional rapid charger that works alongside the built-in unit, which reduces the charge time to four hours. What’s missing (and would really help) is a 22kva charging socket, so you could use one of the thousands of rapid chargers available in the UK. Zero has teamed-up with Bosch to make sure you can stop safely. With a 320mm carrier-less front disc and ABS, whatever the road conditions, you’ll be stopping quickly and safely.

The DSR’s riding position is similar to KTM’s Adventure R or BMW’s R1200; you’re sat high and straight up with very little pressure put through your forearms. The frame is nice and stiff, meaning that even when torque is maxed-out on the app, the DSR doesn’t squirm or twitch when accelerating out of corners; and the Pirelli MT-60 tyres gave great grip and feel. The dash is a simple high

Sustained power output is 30bhp at 4300rpm.

The sustained figure is actually the one the authorities use, meaning the Zero officially makes less than 47bhp and can be ridden on an A2 licence. contrast backlit LCD screen showing state of charge, estimated remaining battery distance, riding mode plus the obvious speed in mph or kph.

Would I buy one?

Am I smitten and converted to the power of the spark – you bet your mother’s false teeth I am. With all the bike’s options on the app, it’s a tame kitten, a happy flirty partygoer as well as being powerful and precise – almost brutal in its power delivery if that’s what you want. If the gods of the lottery shine on me I know what’s on the top of my shopping list…

Words: Jonathan Schofield Images: Mau

E-BIKE TIMELINE

Electric motorcycles and scooters aren’t a new phenomenon – they’ve been around for well over 100 years. Here’s a quick look at the historical timeline.

1895

1936

The earliest known electric motorcycle patent is filed.

1911

Popular Mechanics magazine introduces the electric motorcycle in print.

1919

Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies, a major British agricultural machinery manufacturer, makes an electric motorcycle prototype, called the Orwell.

1936

The Socovel

1974

The Socovel Electric Motorcycle Company was founded in Belgium. The Socovel consisted of a conventional lightweight frame, with three 12v batteries powering a 48v, 2.6bhp motor with power controlled by a twist-grip throttle.

It achieved moderate success, with more than 1000 bikes manufactured.

1946

The Marketeer Company was founded in the USA by Merle Williams as a result of fuel rationing during the Second World War. The company created numerous electric machines including a motorcycle, grocery buggies, golf carts and small cars.

‘Quick Silver’

1996

1967

Austrian chemist and inventor Karl Kordesch, who is jointly credited for inventing the alkaline battery, built a fuel cell/NiCad battery hybrid electric motorcycle. It was fitted with a hydrazine fuel cell, capable of 200 miles to 3.7 litres. The motorcycle was featured in television commercials for the TV programme 21st Century, hosted by Walter Cronkite.

1974

Mike Corbin’s motorcycle ‘Quick Silver’ sets the first electric motorcycle speed record of 165.387mph (266.165km/h) at Bonneville Salt Flats on a machine running lead/acid batteries, dual aircraft starter motors and a speed controller that amounted to a series of highcurrent electromagnetic switches. The record stood for 38 years.

Peugeot’s Scoot’Elec

2013

1996

The first mass-produced electric scooter, the Peugeot Scoot’Elec was released. It was powered by a 2.8kw DC motor fed off three Saft nickelcadmium monoblocs – equating to an 18v, 100 A-h battery. It had a nominal range of 25 miles and could reach speeds of 28mph – plus, there’s an economy mode which extended the range but reduced the speed.

FIM eRoad Racing World Cup

2011

2017

American inventor and electrical vehicle pioneer Chip Yates set a new Guinness World Record for the fastest electric motorcycle with a 316.899km/h (196.912mph) run at Bonneville Salt Flats. Yates and his team of engineers also developed and filed patents on several new electric vehicle technologies, including a kinetic energy recovery system which was intended to capture braking energy from the front wheel of the motorcycle.

2013

The first (and last) FIM eRoad Racing World Cup season was organised by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) following the unification of the former TTXGP series with the FIM ‘e-Power’ electric motorcycle series.

The Energica Ego

2017

2017

It’s 2017 and electric bikes are here and here to stay. There’s now an abundance of models on the market, from the race-ready Energica Ego to commuter-friendly scooters (including the likes of the Torrot Muvi tested in this issue) and most of the major manufacturers are working hard in the background to bring their electric machines to market. In Berlin there’s even an awesome new electric scooter sharing service called ‘Emmy’ that works in a similar way to London’s ‘Boris Bikes’ and costs just 19 cents (about 17 pence) per minute to use.

Various e-bikes are available in the ‘Emmy’ sharing scheme

www.o2w.co.uk 19

BIKE BUYING GUIDE

Buying a motorcycle or scooter on finannce

You’ve just passed your test, and are ready to get your hands on a new ride. Now, most people (ourselvees included) don’t have unlimited budgets play with – so you’re going to have to thinkk outside the box to find some wheels to call your own. In the last issue of O2W we looked at buying useed, but this time we’re breaking down what to watch out for when buying on finance.

We know you’re excited about your shiny new wheels, but don’t be tempted to rush out and sign up for the first finance plan you see. There’s an abundance of dealers tripping over themselves to lend you money and get you on a new machine, so take your time, shop around and read the quick guide below – you might even save yourself a few quid…

Buying a bike on finance can seem like the perfect option when you’re working within a budget – but what does it really involve?

What are the different forms of motorcycle finance?

■ Hire Purchase is the most common source of finance for motorcycles.

Basically, you secure a loan against the motorbike, which you can then ride as you gradually pay the loan off over time. Once the final payment has been made, the bike is yours to keep.

■ Personal Contract Purchase is slightly less common than Hire Purchase, but is becoming a popular choice when purchasing a motorcycle on finance.

Typically available to people with good credit ratings, you’ll borrow the amount that the bike will depreciate by, meaning lower monthly payments, but at the end of the term there is a balloon payment if you’d like to keep the motorcycle. Alternatively, you can return the bike and put its value against another PCP agreement on a new motorcycle.

■ A Personal Loan is the other option available when considering finance for a new motorcycle. It’s available to those with good credit ratings and typically offers the customer more flexibility and better interest rates – but can be a little more problematic to set up, as you won’t be able to deal directly with a dealership.

Why should I consider buying a bike on finance?

If you don’t have the savings, finance can help you get your hands on a new motorcycle and spread the subsequent payments over a manageable period – with a relatively low deposit (or maybe even no deposit at all). There are flexible terms, a fixed rate and once the agreement has been completed, the bike belongs fully to the customer.

Of course, younger riders getting their hands on their first 50cc or 125cc motorbike or scooter probably aren’t going to have the same budget to play with as an older rider – so buying a new motorcycle on finance can be a very tempting proposition indeed. But remember, if you’re a completely new rider, there’s a good chance you’re going to drop your bike, so it could be better buying a used machine within your budget, and opting for a new shiny machine on finance further down n the line line, once you’re you re more confident on two wheels.

Yamaha X-MAX 400

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SPECIFICATION ENGINE: 395cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled

DOHC 4-stroke

LICENCE

WEIGHT (WET): 210kg SEAT HEIGHT: 800mm FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 13 litres PRICE: £5889 O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★ FINANCE AVAILABLE: Personal Contract Purchase

– an initial deposit of £1000 and 36 monthly repayments of £91.18 at 8.9% APR, followed by a final repayment of £2743 if you’d like to keep the scooter. Otherwise, you can put its value against another finance deal with Yamaha.

To help you choose your next steed, Ross has picked a handful of small capacity bikes and scooters to show you what’s out there and available on finance.

How easy is it to get approved for a finance deal, and what’s the typical contract length?

Finance can be arranged both quickly and easily, from as little as 24 hours after your initial enquiry – providing your credit rating isn’t too terrible. The typical contract length for a motorcycle is around 36 months – but there’s a degree of flexibility

there too. You can pay a bigger a deposit and borrow less, meaning lower monthly payments – or alternatively, some lenders will allow you to overpay on your monthly payments and bring the agreement to an end sooner.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get finance?

Always research your options; look at company reviews, and most importantly don’t rush into anything.

The best thing to do is ask around among other bikers and see what good (or bad) experiences others have had when buying a bike on finance. It’s also worth checking your credit rating online, to get a better idea of what deals are within your financial reach.

Most importantly, remember that when you’re borrowing money someone else is making money out of it – so the key is; borrow as little as possible at the cheapest rate, and pay it off as quickly as you can. Remember, the longer you have a loan the more you’ll end up p payy ingg in interest.

Suzuki VanVan 125

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SPECIFICATION ENGINE: 125cc single-cylinder, air-cooled

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SOHC 4-stroke

WEIGHT (WET): 128kg SEAT HEIGHT: 770mm FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 6.5 litres PRICE: £3399 O2W RATING:

Peugeot Django 125 Sport

★★★★★★★★★★ FINANCE AVAILABLE: Hire Purchase

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Agreement – an initial deposit of £250 and 34 monthly repayments of £100.41 at 7.9% APR.

LICENCE

SPECIFICATION ENGINE: 125cc single-cylinder, air-cooled SOHC

4-stroke

WEIGHT (DRY): 135kg SEAT HEIGHT: 770mm FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 8.2 litres PRICE: £2999 O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★ FINANCE AVAILABLE: Hire Purchase Agreement

– an initial deposit of £99.00 and 36 monthly repayments of £95.17 at 9.9% APR.

Honda CB500F

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SPECIFICATION ENGINE: 471cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, parallel twin WEIGHT (WET): 190kg SEAT HEIGHT: 785mm FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 16.7 litres O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★ PRICE: £5299 FINANCE AVAILABLE: Personal Contract Purchase

– an initial deposit of £980.52 and 36 monthly repayments of £79 at 6.9% APR.

For information and road reviews on many other bike models, visit www.o2w.co.uk

www.o2w.co.uk 21

FIRST RIDE

Kawasaki Versys-X 300

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LICENCE

Introducing the all-new Versys-X 300, boasting big bike adventure styling with small capacity running costs – but is it as capable as it looks?

The Versys-X 300 is the latest entrylevel model from Kawasaki and given the widespread popularity of adventure bikes in recent years, the emergence of a smaller capacity range doesn’t come as a surprise. The Versys-X 300 is competing in a busy market against the all-new Honda CRF 250 Rally, Suzuki V-Strom 250 and the recently announced BMW G 310 GS. The Versys-X 300 is a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 296cc parallel twin, boasting 19in front and 17in rear wheels, long-travel suspension, an upright seating position, tall, wide handlebars and a small, windscreenequipped fairing.

Like its larger capacity siblings, it features rugged adventure styling, but slimmed down to make it a lightweight, learner-friendly machine

The 296cc parallel twin engine makes pretty impressive power and torque

that stands apart from the rest of the Versys range. It offers everything you’d expect from an adventureoriented motorcycle, in a more compact package.

There’s a 16 litre fuel tank which contributes to the adventure-style image (and offers incredible range for such a small machine) while maintaining a slim design. There’s also a large two-up seat (which isn’t as comfortable as on the larger capacity models) in addition to a rear carrier with easy-to-use grips and strap hooks for adding luggage – and there’s also a wide range of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories available.

Engine

The bike is powered by Kawasaki’s liquid-cooled 296cc parallel-twin engine (straight from the Ninja 300), which has been tuned to deliver strong low and mid-range torque in addition to pretty impressive power on the road. Much of its prowess can be attributed to its digital fuel injection, which helps provide excellent throttle response and easily manageable power delivery – while the unique exhaust piping offers added ground clearance and helps to produce low- and mid-range torque perfect for light trails and makes it a pleasure to ride.

Analogue tachometer and an LCD display that shows gear position, speed, clock, fuel level, trip/odometer and more

Small windscreen, wide handlebars and upright seating position help the bike command the road

ENGINE: 296cc, four-stroke, DOHC, liquid-cooled

On the road

The Versys-X 300’s long travel suspension, wide reach bars and wide steering angle make it easy to manoeuvre, whether you’re filtering through traffic, or speeding down the motorway. Not only is it light and nimble, but with its narrow chassis and low seat height it could be the perfect pick for new riders. It’s an ideal motorcycle for a variety of riding conditions from light trails to the inner-city commute.

I was impressed by the power and torque pumped out by the 296cc four-stroke parallel twin engine.

You’ll need to work it quite hard to sit at motorway speeds, but despite revving around 8000rpm there’s surprisingly little vibration and noise.

Through to third gear, the ratios are

SPECIFICATION

Kawasaki Versys-X 300 parallel twin

SEAT HEIGHT: 845mm WEIGHT: Standard: 170kg / ABS version: 175kg FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 17 litres PRICE: £5149 CONTACT: www.kawasaki.co.uk O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

pretty close together – but in the top three gears, you’ve got a much larger rev band and an abundance of torque on offer. The clutch is super light, and gear selection is a doddle too.

The suspension is well set-up – perfect for motorway riding, narrow country lanes and the occasional light trail (though it wasn’t particularly at ease when being pushed on some slightly more

challenging trails). The brakes are excellent with the ABS proving more than capable on various surfaces (both wet and dry) – though I didn’t have to use them all that often (except on the tightest of turns), as I tended to make use of the high-revving torquey engine to slow me down.

Words: Ross Images: Gary Chapman

22 www.o2w.co.uk

PRODUCT REVIEWS

Furygan FIT-R 2 gloves

RRP: £119.99 | Colours: Black/White, Black/White/Red, White/ Black, Black/White/Green | Sizes: S to 3XL O2W rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ Reviewer: Mau These leather FIT-R 2 race-style gloves are an upgrade of Furygan’s popular FIT-R range; they are similar in design to the original glove, although they’re now slightly thinner narrow-fit gauntlets with an all-new metacarpal bone protection. They’re CE-approved as PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) to EN 13594:2015 standard.

Features include coloured finger stitching and between each finger there’s a small textile insert. Furygan says that the fingers have been shaped to offer better grip and feel on the handlebars and that the redesigned stretch fit cuffs with multiple wrist adjusters make it easier to put on the Fit-R2 gloves.

The leather used in manufacture has a tough natural abrasion resistance and protection is further backed-up by a ‘Skin Protect’ lining, developed and approved by Furygan’s research and development team, Motion Lab. Naturally tough as the construction may be, it certainly doesn’t affect the suppleness and feel when in use.

There are external protectors on the knuckles and fingers for impact protection, and goat leather reinforcements on the palm and other key areas that might come into contact with the tarmac in the event of an accident.

The ring finger and little finger of the gloves are held together with a leather piece to prevent overextension and lower the risk of fractures.

• Info: www.nevis.uk.com

www.o2w.co.uk 23

Airoh ST 701 helmet

RRP: £399.99 | Colours: wide range of colours and designs | Sizes: XS to 2XL O2W rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ Reviewer: Ross Italian helmet manufacturer Airoh has long been a stalwart of the off-road world, producing top quality helmets that have been keeping dirt enthusiasts safe for many years – but the firm’s range of road helmets has only just made it across to British shores, so I got my hands on a new Airoh ST 701 ACU Gold approved full face helmet to see how well it held up.

It’s undoubtedly a good looking helmet and I’ve received many compliments, and answered many questions about this latest offering on my more recent travels. The outer shell is made up of a multi-axial system and uses mostly carbon fibre, so it’s pretty light-weight (about 1400g) – one of the lightest when taking into account price and technical specification. The EPS inner shell has been subjected to some pretty intense testing, with the use of four different densities guaranteeing the highest safety standards (according to Airoh and the ACU).

It features evolved aerodynamics and a pretty impressive threepronged internal ventilation system – plus an additional nose defector to push air and humidity down and out of the helmet.

There’s also an internal drop-down retractable sun visor, and a quick release Pinlock anti-fog racing

visor (pretty much impossible to fog-up and complemented by a really wide field of vision).

The helmet comes in two different shell sizes – to ensure the best fit.

All inner lining materials are hypoallergenic, fully removable and washable. Designed for both sports and touring use, it’s as comfortable on the track as it was taking-on some (admittedly light) trails in the deepest, darkest regions of Lincolnshire.

It’s a really well-equipped helmet that can stand side-by-side with much more expensive kit. It’s phenomenally light, feels really well balanced once on and cuts through the air with very little turbulence – and being ACU Gold approved, it’s pretty much guaranteed to keep you safe.

• Info: www.airoh.com

PRODUCT REVIEWS

Hood K7 Jeans

RRP: From £122.99 | Colours: Blue, Navy, Black | Sizes: Men’s: 30-44in, Ladies 8-18 O2W rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ Reviewer: Ross I have to confess, I’ve got a bit of a thing for bike jeans. I love the versatility and generally wear them day-to-day – and even in a downpour I would much prefer to throw on some waterproofs over the top of my denim than get togged up in some heavy duty textile clobber.

I do recognise that the level of protection offered by motorcycling jeans can sometimes be a little bit lacking – but that’s why I opted for these Hood K7 jeans. The K7 jeans feature a full length K-tech para-aramid lining, which is highly abrasion-resistant. Unlike other bike jeans I’ve owned, the lining runs all the way from the waist to the top of the boots, instead of just in the areas most likely to meet the tarmac during a tumble.

In addition to the lining, Hood also off ffers ff optional CE Level 1 and CE Level 2 D3O hip and knee armour for £30 and £42 respectively. And as far as I’m concern ned, that’s money well spent when your saffety comes into question. The armour is atttached to the jeans with large Velcro strips, wh h ich makes them really easy to get into placce.

Like many riding jeans available on t he market, the Hood K7s look very much like a pair of ‘fashion’ jeans – aside from th he obvious bulges on the hip and knee.

And with regard to comfort, I can’t say enough about them – I’d wear them every day if I could.

• Info: www.hoodjeans.co.uk

OxProds visor protection optionss So why would you need somewhere to stash your visor I hear you ask? Well, some people have more than one (perhaps a clear visor for everyday use, plus a tinted visor for track use maybe); and replacing a visor can be costly. Here are a couple off storage options from Oxford Products range: The VISORSACK ESSENTIAL VISOR CARRIER (£5.99) is one option. • Like the VisorStash, it’s designed to fit the majority of helmet visors, but comes in the style of a foldable drawstring pouch.

Either option offers that little bit of extra peace of mind in protecting your visor from damage from unwanted marks and scratches, making them well worth considering for purchase.

• Info: www.oxfordproducts.com | info@oxprod.com | 01993 862300

•

RRP: £5.99/£9.99 | Colour: Black | Sizing: Universal O2W rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ Reviewer: Mau

The VISORSTASH DELUXE PADDED VISOR CARRIER (£9.99) is the most comfortable way to carry a spare visor/ shield. Padded, with a soft antiscratch lining it’s designed to fit the majority of helmet v isors, it’ss ergonomica lly shaped with adjustable straps to wear like a waist pack.

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Knox Zephyr meshh jackket

RRP: £199.99 | Colour: Blaack | Sizes: S–3XL O2W rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ Reviewer: Mikko Nieminen

If you’ve ever ridden iin heavy leathers or texttiles under the beating sun n, w you know exactly how stifling they can feel.

So, what’s the solution n?

Enter mesh jackets, th he perfect choice for those hot days, offering plen nty of ventilation with theeir light structure and big mesh vents.

The Knox Zephyr iss a particularly nice-looking mesh jacket, and what’s more, it’s also tough, fully armoured and made in the UK. It may look light, but the signature Knox protection level is stiill there. The fabrics aree abrasion resistant, an nd the jacket is fitted with Knox CE armour in the should der, elbows and back. The protectors are fitted so they don n’tt move around and stay in the right place even in case of a tumble. The back protector is nice and big, covering both upper and lower back. An optional chest protector is also available.

Plentiful ventilation is guaranteed by the arrownet mesh fabric on the front and back, and there’s soft cotton lining for added comfort.

There are two zipped pockets at the front and a further pouch at the rear (which would be useful for storing the waterproof over-jacket that can be bought separately).

In use, the jacket feels snug in a nice way (it’s designed to be worn over a base layer only), while still comfortingly solid with all the protectors. The airflow is excellent and makes this a fantastic summer riding jacket. I also like that you can get a waterproof over-jacket that makes this a much more versatile product.

• Info: www.planet-knox.com

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FIRST RIDE

Vespa GTS Super Sport 300

Sport-styled iconic Italian scooter brought bang up to date for 2017.

If you know even a little bit about scooters, you’ll have heard of Vespa.

Established in 1946 to address Italy’s urgent need for a modern and affordable mode of transportation after the Secon World War, the Italian brand have been churning-out small capacity stylish scooters ever since.

The GTS Super Sport 300 is the latest Vespa to be updated, bringing the sporty scooter in line with current Euro 4 regulations – blending classic Vespa styling with bang-up-to-date performance and modern technology.

It benefits from a swathe of updated electronics that bring rider safety to the forefront to help keep you safe out on two wheels.

First impressions

The Vespa GTS Supersport 300 is undoubtedly the most aggressivelooking Vespa in the range – and I SPECIFICATION

Vespa GTS 300 Super Sport ENGINE: 278cc, SOHC single cylinder, liquid-cooled

4-stroke with automatic gearbox

SEAT HEIGHT: 790mm WEIGHT: 158kg TANK CAPACITY: 9.08 litres PRICE: £5399 CONTACT: www.piaggiogroup.com O2W RATING:

★★★★★★★★★★

love it. The 2017 model builds on the winning formula from the outgoing 2016 Supersport, incorporating black-painted wheels, black seat trim with contrasting piping, five gills and all-new LED lighting front and rear – though, sadly there’s no luggage rack as standard on this model. However, there’s a slightly larger underseat compartment that Vespa claims should comfortably accommodate an open face lid. It also features updated front suspension, a new analogue and digital instrument panel, a USB port and brand-new sporty graphics. I reckon this scooter looks fantastic – and by the number of looks I received while riding the machine, plenty of other people like it too.

There’s a couple of colourways to choose from; either Yellow (Giallo Gelosia – my favourite) or Grey (Gringio Titanio) – and Vespa also offers a massive range of aftermarket accessories, from TomToms to topboxes and covers to chrome bumpers, should you want to kit your steed out for something specific.

On the road

The Vespa GTS 300 Super Sport is one of the smoothest, stablest scooters I’ve ridden. It’s light and agile with enough power to allow you to make good progress out on the open road.

It’s always going to be most at home

squeezing its way through towns or cities, but I was pleasantly surprised with how confidently it handled sweeping bends and tight turns at speed. Of course you’re not going to be able to throw it into a corner in the same way you would a larger-wheeled motorcycle – but when riding alongside work colleagues on Moto Guzzi V7s, the Vespaa helped me to stay hot on their heeels.

It uses an adapted Quasar fourstroke, single-cylind der engine from the Vespa 250. It’s un ndergone bore and stroke increasess and features a redesigned cylinder head to help improvve midrange torque. And it’s worked. The GTS S pulls away briskly, maintaining momen ntum up to 70mph with ease. Frrom there it keeps going, but you u’ll need a good run to get up th here.

The Brembo brakes offer excellent stopping power with exceptional feel from m the rear, with little to no risk of wheel lock-up, even under emergency braking, thanks to th he ABS system. Ultimately, t hey add to the general air of sop phistication and quality which oozes from these large-framed Vespas when compared with otheer scooters on the market.

The scooter allso features uspension, updated front su he Vespa inspired by th Primavera. That Th means there’s a hingged lower shock absorber a mount, m replacing the old rigid mount directlly on the trailing arm. The Th new nt allows the hinged moun shock to keep the correct ometry at all working geo times, offeriing precision hness. and smooth w miles under With a few my belt, I fellt more and dent on the more confid nd by the end scooter – an of our time together, I was soaring alongg with a massive smilee stretched across my face.

Should I buy one?

The GTS 300 Super Sport blends classic Vespa styling with modern technology – and is just as at ease out on the open road as it is in suburbia.

Opt for the extra luggage accessories, load it up, and head away for a long weekend of two-up touring and rest assured it’ll still be ready to get you in to work come Monday morning.

Plus, it achieves an impressive (claimed) 70mpg, so shouldn’t cost too much to run either.

Of course, the Vespa 300 GTS Super Sport isn’t cheap – but Vespas aren’t, full stop – and you have to remember that you’re getting your hands on a fantastic-looking, top quality machine that genuinely stands apart from the competition. If I had the money, I’d be very tempted indeed.

Words: Ross Images: Mikko

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"IT'S LIKE RIDING A BIKE..."

Getting back on two wheels Taking a break from bike riding is something that happens to the majority of us at some point and getting back on two wheels can be a daunting prospect.

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

Friends might say go out, buy a bike and get straight back on; but if you don’t feel confident, don’t panic. It’s better to be safe than rush to get back in the saddle. It’s natural to want a refresher before heading off onto the open road by yourself and the number of road users is increasing so it’s a good idea to be clued up on the latest rules and regulations and armed with the best skills to keep you safe.

Where do you start?

Useful information BikeSafe – a police-led motorcycle project www.bikesafe.co.uk Get On www.geton.co.uk IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) www.iam.org.uk

There’s many ways to get back into the swing by refreshing your skills and building your confidence back up and some are less expensive than you may think. Here’s our best tips for getting you back into the saddle...

Take refresher lessons

Riding schools will welcome you back for some refresher training; don’t be put off if they don’t offer the exact course that you want, or that it isn’t listed as one of their services. If you call them and explain your situation,

they might come up with a customised dedicated course for you. This is down to each individual riding school and some may be more receptive than others, but don’t be afraid to ask – after all, they’ll be happy to help someone get back on a bike.

Get professional help

Organisations like the Institute of Advanced Motorists and BikeSafe offer a number of courses for riders which will improve skills, knowledge and hazard awareness, making riding safer and more enjoyable. Visit their websites for more information on their specific courses. They’re also out at various events throughout the year, so be sure to check their event calendars. Chat through your situation with their stand staff who will be more than happy to help.

Events and dealerships

There’s hundreds of biking-related events dotted around the country, from local bike nights to national shows. Take a trip and the opportunity to talk to fellow motorcyclists.

Depending how long ago it was since you were on the road, they could have changed an awful lot, so it’s worth talking to people who are out on two wheels now to see what these changes are and how they deal with them.

Visit your local motorcycle dealer; their salesmen are there to sell bikes, but are also on hand to provide information and point you towards the best bike for you and your needs; make the most of their advice and take the chance to sit on a few machines and get comfortable around them again.

Research, read and learn

There’s a wealth of information online; you won’t be the only one trying to get back into biking, so it’s likely you’ll come across someone who’s done it already. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by information though, so take everything with a pinch of salt. Everyone is different and only you know the right plan of action for you.

Phone a friend

A problem shared is a problem halved. Why not ring a friend and tell them what you’re up to? If they’re a rider they might offer to come out with you the first time you venture out. Biking is a very social activity, so you may as well start as you mean to go on – with friends. No riding friends? Don’t panic, even sharing your plans with someone who doesn’t ride will give you someone to discuss your adventures with!

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On Two Wheels

For Sale ARIEL ARROW 200cc, MoT March 2018, phone for more details £1850 ono Tel. 01430 423971; 07719 567957. East Yorks.

BMW GS800 2010, blue, breaking for spares, engine done 23,000 miles, good clean condition and cheap, most parts available Tel. 07958 521846. Sussex.

CAN-AM 250 Rotax Enduro, 1978, 5561 miles, exmilitary, owned 30 years, MoT 2002, not used since, needs recommissioning and registering, £1000 Tel. Neil 07836 208050. Herts.

GILERA Runner 200 V.X.R. green, 2003, 16,000 miles, MoT March 2018, Givi topbox, Datatag, good condition, garaged, serviced March 2016, £795 ono Tel. 01580 752661; 07792 764083. Kent.

HERALD CLASSIC 125cc, 2014 MoT May 2018, one mature owner, 2300, only £900 Tel. 01244 312816. Chester.

HONDA CB125F reg October 2015, learner legal, finished in blazing red metallic, 2400 miles, new sprockets and chain fitted for sale, steering lock/wheel lock, excellent condition, runs really well, £1750 Tel. 01522 731841.

Lincolnshire.

CLASSIFIED HONDA CB500 2003, 8700 miles, one previous owner, top box, screen, RG bungs, Smartwater, always garaged, MoT March 2018, Haynes manual, retiring, £1400 ono Tel. 01782 953511. North Staffs.

HONDA CBR125 RW-9 vgc, new parts inc brand new front fender, battery, mirrors, front tyre, rear tyre has only done few hundred miles also chain and sprockets have only done about 500 miles, only 9023 miles on the clock, fuel injection model with starter switch, MoT until April next year, no advisories, £1495 ono Tel. Matt on 07586 444851.

Hants.

HONDA CBF500 2005, ABS, MoT May 2018, 18,000 miles, recent chain & sprockets, good tyres, Puig screen, Pipe-werx end can, great bike, £1500 Tel. 01480 453790. Cambs.

HONDA H100S 100cc, 2961 miles, barn find, vgc for year 1991, new battery, starts, new seat cover and bit of tlc this would be a great work bike, £500 ono Tel. 07788 484566.

Suffolk.

HONDA MSX125 very clean bike, 2015 reg, petrol, 1291 miles, mini bike, red/black, first service, rental bars, bike cover, service book, two keys, £2195 Tel. Don 01217 451415 after 5pm. Birmingham.

HONDA PCX S 125cc, Super, learner legal with many extras, 64 reg, purchased new by mature rider, less than 4000 miles, serviced, garaged, kept immaculate, ride away, £1850 Tel. Pete 07852 650477 no texts please. Yorks.

HONDA CBR600F 1998, full MoT, 16k miles, immaculate condition, £1475 Tel. 01249 814129; 07400 623679.

Chippenham, Wiltshire.

HONDA FIREBLADE 1997, 900cc, lovely condition, clean & fast bike, great to ride, £2300 ono Tel. 07929 470195.

HONDA CA72 305cc, 1964, Dakota import Nova VJMC cert, red, original condition, good chrome, new Dunlops, runs, quiet, needs tlc for MoT, £1450 ono Tel. 07824 647202.

West Midlands.

HONDA HORNET 600 F2 faired model, 2002, very low mileage, I am the second owner, 2400 miles in first 13 years now on 6200 miles, some marks on engine cases due to previous owner otherwise very clean, see photos, giving up due to arthritis in both wrists, can supply photos if needed, to include Abba stand, £1950 Tel. 07572 155700. Lincs.

HONDA NSC 50R 64 reg, 2015, 850 genuine miles, vgc, full Repsol livery as Honda model supplied when new, CBS braking system, £1100 Tel. 07842 774822.

HONDA VFR400 NC24 1989, G reg, 30,000 miles, Repsol colours, single seat, new t yres, pads, bat ter y, braided hoses, long MoT no advisories, recent service and carbs tuned, new ABE chrome stanchions, have also dual seat and cowls, £1450 ovno Tel. 07969 418942. Fife.

HONDA CBR125 starts and runs well, 12 months MoT, 30,000 miles, ideal first bike Tel. Steve 07460 045525.

Essex.

K AWASAKI NINJA 250cc, black, 2010, two owners, good Michelin Radials, recent new rear suspension brushes, Hagon monoshock, rear disc and pads, service history, two keys, £750 Tel. 01293 410976. Surrey.

KAWASAKI Z250 250cc, 1980, 4-stroke twin, complete running, many new parts including brakes, master cylinders, lines, ignition components, tyres and panniers, workshop manual, silver blue fairing, £750 ono Tel. 07931 204726; 01423 565388 for details. North Yorks.

SELLING YOUR BIKE IS

FREE FOR PRIVATE READERS

KAWASAKI ZL1000 Eliminator 1986, 24,000 miles, rare muscle bike, cruiser was converted from a ZL750 with a Kawasaki GPZ1000 rebuilt engine two years ago have just fitted a new front tyre, battery & petrol pump ready for its MoT with my local motorbike shop too be done as soon as its purchased, £1375 Tel. Mick 07956 375573.

Surrey.

KAWASAKI ZR750 new MoT, new brake pads, new rear disc chain & sprockets, has had oil change & new filter, £1500 Tel. Roger 01202 698381. Dorset.

KAWASAKI KH250 249cc, garage stored for several years, complete bike. Also Kawasaki KH125, garage stored, unused several years, offers for either or both bikes, possible repair or for spares Tel. 01753 643717.

Bucks.

PIAGGIO MP3 250cc, 2007, blue, 18,000 km (under 12,000 miles), MoT Jan 2018, most MoTs, new parts fitted, receipts for £843, both keys, V5, immob, clock, fuel gauge etc, handbrake, handbook, boot and under seat storage, vgc, £1795 possible p/x bike & sidecar or Moto Guzzi? Tel. 079130 32864. Yorks.

PEUGEOT D JANGO Classic 150cc, registered March 2015, less than 1000 miles, vgc, garaged, £1400 ono Tel. 01277 623154.

Essex.

SUZUKI BURGMAN AN400, 2006, 25,000 miles, excellent condition, MoT 2018, new tyres, brake pads, Givi screen spare drive belt, Haynes manual, original tools, £1350 Tel. 01492 534158. Nth Wales.

YAMAHA SR400 only 1900 miles, just been serviced in good condition, runs and rides ok, has rack and top box, £3000 ono Tel. 07986 465088.

Kent.

YAMAHA VIRAGO 535cc, maroon & silver, excellent condition, all you want in a bike giving a great ride, 1994 with new MoT in May 2017, must be seen, £975 Tel. 07787 721652. London.

YAMAHA YBR 250cc, my bike from new, well looked after, 2009, 29k miles, screen top box, new stainless front pipe, nearly new tyres, well looked after, overall in excellent condition, £1500 ono Tel. 07964 196949. Lancs.

ROYAL ENFIELD Electra X, 500cc, 2008, chrome and black, petrol tank, sporty exhaust, front disc brake, electronic ignition, 5000 dry miles, one owner, £1500 Tel. 07752 852537. Northants.

Choose one of the following methods: 1/ ONLINE www.o2w.co.uk 2/ EMAIL freeads@o2w.co.uk 3/ POST O2W Reader Adverts, PO Box 99, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR TOMOSRACING45brand new 16 plate, it’s new, all paperwork, £850 Tel. Carl 07514 830521.

Lancs.

TRIUMPH T90 Cafe Racer Special, comp rebuild Ali: tank (p/m) pegs/rims, SRS, TLS, chrome H/L twin clocks, original reg, log book. BMW K1200 RS, red/fr blue, 2001, 38,000 miles, serviced, tool kit, H/panniers, vgc, £2600.

Leather boots (10) and Fab jacket, 44/46” lined, £80 Tel. 07759 607498. East Berks.

YAMAHA YZFR1 mint condition, low mileage, new exhaust system, alarm, datatag, red & silver, recent service, £2250 ono Tel. 07925 340627. Bristol.

Parts For Sale ARROW EXHAUST fits CBF125, £150 buyer collects Tel. 07909 767752. Notts.

CLEARING GARAGE: load Puch Grand Prix 50 spares, similar amount MZ ETZ, Suzuki ZR50 most rolling chassis, AMC lightweight, some nos, plus used, also Villiers. Tel. 01293 410476. Surrey.

D.I.D. CHAIN and sprockets set, as new bought in error, front sprocket 16 tooth, rear 42 tooth and 118 link chain, £30 bargain, can post if required at Royal Mail rates. Tel. 07804 235154. Lincs.

GIVI E22 SIDE PANNIERS complete with mounting frame, as new, to fit Suzuki 250 Inazuma, £150 Tel. 01343 544528. Morayshire.

YAMAHA VIRAGO 535cc, new clutch cable and brake linings, for rear wheel, £15 Tel. 07982 2487505 or 01933 430063.

Northants.

Wanted SUZUKI T20 OR T200 1965 to 1969, prefer usable bike, but any thing considered, call with details Tel. 07581 177445.

WANTED GIVI PLX174 RACKS to fit a 2004 Honda CBF500 Tel. 01915 288802; 07944 056719.

Tyne & Wear.

WANTED LEXMOTO MILANO or AJS Modena 125cc scooter, must be in good condition & recent model. Tel. 07983 062684.

Miscellaneous BERING TOURING JACKET as new, chest 48” Armour in sleeves, black, £65. HJC flip-up helmet, as new, unmarket, sun filter, chin, head vents, size L, p&p extra, £45 Tel. 07590 922940.

North Yorkshire.

BUFFALO LEATHERS one piece (new) suit, 5ft 10” 44/46”, black/red, not worn! £180.

Fabric jacket 44/46, black/red, £25. Jet (new) helmet, 58/61 clr/visor, £45. Triumph T90/ Daytona Special f/rebuilt, Ali rims, Ali pegs, original plate crafted Ali tank etc, £5500 Tel. 07759 607498. East Berks.

MOTORCYCLE TROUSERS revit, black, size XL (29”/30” leg), lined, knee protectors, worn twice, £20 Tel. Ian 07508 903708. East Sussex.

NUMBER PLATE for sale W80 XJR, suit big Yamaha or Jaguar car on retention in my name, £400 ovno Tel. 07523 326472.

West Lancashire.

OXFORD TAIL PACK unused, £20 Tel. 07599 500833.

Manchester.

RST PADDED COAT and trousers, both medium size, only worn twice so good as new Tel. Paul 07527 464301. Sth Yorkshire.

SCOTT LEATHER BIKE JEANS boot-cut, ankle zips, 36” waist, 28” leg, excellent condition, £80 ono; Dynamic leather jeans, boot-cut ankle zips, 34” waist, 28” leg, excellent condition, £80 ono; both pairs £150 ono Tel. 07958 249972. Mid Wales.

SPIDI RACE LEATHERS onepiece, lined, black, gold, red and white, with Fieldsheer knee sliders to fit someone 5ft 7” height, 42” chest, 30” waist, 30” inside leg, in excellent condition, recently cleaned and treated, (receipt to show), £150 Tel. 0161 371 1960; 07733 288008. Gtr Man. VIPER HELMET white, ‘L’, worn twice, built in bluetooth with charging plug flip-top with sun visor, unsuitable due to wearing spectacles, £110 Tel. 01322 220555. Dartford, Kent.

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