by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com Generally speaking, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are not prohibitively expensive. Pair that with the iconic status of the brand, and you get the most important reason why there are so many Harleys on our roads. A good chunk of them are of course stock. Of the modified ones, most have minor enhancements, both in scope and price, derived from the owners’ need to stand out in a crowd. But there’s a sizeable number of Harleys whose modifications amount to at least half the price of the standard bike. Take the Street Bob we have here. Today, the starting price for the model as it exists the factory doors is $14,599, but this particular one is worth a lot more than that. It’s officially called Black Denim, and was made by German shop Thunderbike at the request of one of its customers. The idea was to go with subtle changes, but the project ended up costing at least $7,000 on top of the stock two-wheeler. Visually, the bike is no longer your average Street Bob. The rear end was made a tad fatter with the addition of a swingarm kit, new fender, and custom wheel. Up front we get a new wheel as well, a new handler bar for a more chopper-style look, and new signals. Mechanically, the bike has changed with the addition of a new pulley brake kit, and an exhaust system from Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde. Other enhancements come in the form of air filters, covers for the clutch / ignition, and toppers. Usually, Thunderbike does not say how much their builds cost to make, but at the same time they do list most of the parts used, and simple use of elementary math gives us a pretty good idea. In this case, we’re talking about roughly 6,000 euros, or the equivalent of $7,000 at today’s exchange rates – and that’s not including the man hours and the exhaust system.

by Cristian Curmei from https://www.autoevolution.com

You know, sometimes dream really do come true. Most of the vehicles around today came to life on some drawing board in a room hidden away from the world. But before that they were all concepts, ideas so to speak.

It’s been dubbed the Cobra by its creator Christian Grajewski of Hannover, Germany, and is to be a fully autonomous motorcycle. This too is one of those ideas, and even though it hasn’t quite made it into real life manufacturing, one day, it very well could make it into production. But then again, I’m a dreamer, and for now this motorcycle remains only a concept rendering.

But being a concept, there’s definitely some worth to its mention, and mention it we shall. Before you go on reading, have a look in the gallery to really get a feel for the idea.

If you’ve had the look, then by now you’ve figured out why it’s called the Cobra, basically because it looks like a downright cobra snake, only in mechanical form. Also, if you paid attention to the gallery, you witnessed two different designs. Both are from the same creator, just during different years. The one in focus today will be the newer design, which is also characterized by the white and orange color scheme.

This concept is similar to the idea of Roborace, you know, the ones that race autonomous and electric sports cars. The designer wanted to push the limits of motorcycle design by simply eliminating one crucial component, the rider. Anytime you choose to design something that is no longer based around the human form, you can really go outside the box. And that seems to have happened here as well.

But you still need a pilot in some way or another, so an AI system is definitely present in the design. Where exactly on the vehicle it’s hidden, we can’t say. But we do know that a number of sensors and cameras are placed around the bike to help direct its autonomous movement.

For example, at the very front of the bike, where that chopped fender-like thing is found, we are told it houses a camera, Lidar and aadar sensors. Another pair of these sensors is found one each side of the bike behind the front wheel, and another set near the rear tire. As with anything autonomous, these sensors are the eyes and ears of the vehicle.

Another idea that the concept explores is something called sphere-based magnetic steering. I honestly don’t know what that’s all about, and it seems that neither does Google. Not as a steering based function anyway. But hey, we are all allowed to dream a little.

As for the body design of the vehicle, I personally feel it looks hella sleek. By eliminating the need for a rider, the body design was able to follow one major line. As this vehicle is most likely electric, the space where an engine would normally be has also been removed by the low dropping body line of the top.

Speaking of top, the chassis coverings are held in place by magnets and not screws or bolts. Not so sure how that will hold up at high speeds, but then again, what do I know, I’m not the designer.

Don’t bother looking for the handlebars of pedals on this one folks, it’s not meant for you to ride. But don’t be discouraged, we can still enjoy this vehicle’s hypothetical abilities as it offers a function where an actual driver can be in control via a VR system.

Sure, this design may be far off from anything that is around, but frankly, not for long. Autonomous vehicles are making a very quick progression toward reality.

Max Biaggi and Monegasque electric motorcycle constructor Voxan marked the Venturi Group’s 20th anniversary in style, setting a total of eleven new world speed records at Ch�teauroux airfield in France, on 30 and 31 October and 1 November. The outright top speed achieved over the three days was 408 km/h (254 mph).

On the morning of Saturday 31 October, Max Biaggi and the Voxan Wattman achieved their primary objective, beating the most sought-after of the twelve world records they had been targeting this weekend. With a speed of 366.94 km/h (228.05 mph), the team set a new record in the prestigious “partially streamlined electric motorcycle over 300 kilos” class. In doing so, they dethroned previous holders Ryuji Tsuruta and Mobitec EV-02A with their speed of 329 km/h (204 mph).

In line with FIM (F�d�ration Internationale de Motocyclisme) regulations, the Voxan Wattman’s speed was measured from a flying start over 1 mile in opposite directions, within a period of two hours. Under Federation regulations, the final speed is the average of the two speeds recorded over these two runs. The Voxan, with its grey Sacha Lakic-designed fairing, sent records tumbling as the GPS speedometer peaked at an instantaneous speed of… 408 km/h (254 mph).

Given the relatively short track (3.5 km / 2.17 mi), reaching such an impressive top speed has encouraged Voxan to set its sights even higher. When they make their next attempts on a longer course, the team now has serious designs on an average speed in the region of 400 km/h (249 mph).

349.38 km/h (217.14 mph) for the non-streamlined Wattman

On Friday 30 October, a non-streamlined version of the Voxan Wattman without its fairing also took on the challenge over a distance of 1 mile, from a flying start. The principle was identical: 1 mile in opposite directions, within a period of two hours. Once again, the final speed was the average of the two speeds recorded over these two runs: 349.38 km/h (217.14 mph).

Yet the on-board systems showed that the Wattman, propelled by its powerful 270 kW (367 CH) engine, peaked at a top speed of 372 km/h (231 mph). This measurement augurs well for the next attempts planned, with Voxan set to take on more records until the end of 2022.

Nine other records

Gildo Pastor’s team had a number of other world records in their sights. After these three days of attempts, the final record tally is as follows:

– � mile, flying start, partially streamlined: 394.45 km/h (245.10 mph) – no previous record

– � mile, flying start, non-streamlined: 357.19 km/h (221.95 mph) – no previous record

– 1 km, flying start, partially streamlined: 386.35 km/h (240.07 mph – previous

record: 329.31 km/h (204.62 mph)

– � mile, standing start, non-streamlined: 126.20 km/h (78.42 mph) – no previous record

– � mile, standing start, partially streamlined: 127.30 km/h (79.10 mph) – previous

record: 87.16 km/h (54.16 mph)

– 1 km, standing start, non-streamlined: 185.56 km/h (115.30 mph) – no previous record

– 1 km, standing start, partially streamlined: 191.84 km/h (119.20 mph) – previous

record: 122.48 km/h (76.11 mph)

– 1 mile, standing start, non-streamlined: 222.82 km/h (138.45 mph) – no previous record

– 1 mile, standing start, partially streamlined: 225.01 km/h (139.81 mph) – no previous record

Quotes

“It was important to me to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Venturi Group’s electric adventure. Given the health situation, it hasn’t been easy, but thanks to the hard work and mentality shown by Max and my teams, we proved ourselves up to the challenge. Twenty years after buying Venturi, I am delighted that the Group can now claim to have created the fastest ever electric vehicles on two and four wheels (Venturi VBB-3, FIA record: 549 km/h – 341 mph), but also in the four-wheel fuel cell category (Venturi VBB-2, FIA record: 487 km/h – 303 mph). On each project, we have worked openly with major companies to share with them our expertise in the field of ground-breaking technologies, and in doing so contributed to improving ecomobility. That modest contribution reflects my commitment to ensuring we are fully line with the values of the Principality in terms of sustainable development. So I am sharing these records with my country, Monaco.” – Gildo Pastor, President of Venturi

“When Gildo Pastor, the President of the Venturi Group, approached me about this project, I was curious, very motivated, and at the same time a little uncertain. Having said that, right after our first meeting, I quickly realised that, like Gildo, his teams were driven by an incredible belief and determination. They told me “we came close to 600 km/h (373 mph) on four wheels, and now we want to flirt with 400 km/h (249 mph) on two wheels, nothing’s going to stop us!” These records make me a happy man! I’m proud of the team and delighted to bring these titles back to Monaco!” – Max Biaggi, rider of the Voxan Wattman

“At ROKiT we believe electric vehicles are the future and we are proud to partner with the fastest electric motorcycles in the world. Venturi and Voxan are true innovators and it’s exciting for ROKiT to be part of history in the making.” – Jonathan Kendrick, Co-Founder and Chairman ROKiT.

About Voxan

In 2010, the iconic motorcycle manufacturer Voxan Motors was bought by Venturi. Its President, Gildo Pastor, immediately refocused the constructor on a new core business: electric engines.

In 2013, Venturi unveiled the Voxan Wattman, a symbol of the brand’s rebirth and its radically new technical direction and styling.

In 2019, the teams began work on a new, high-performance version of the Wattman, specially designed to set new world speed records.

Yamaha Introduces the Next-Generation MT-07

The Most Successful Mid-Size Hyper Naked Goes to the Next Level

MARIETTA, Ga. – November 3, 2020 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today introduced the 2021 MT-07 as the new model in the company’s Hyper Naked motorcycle segment. With features such as distinctive next-generation MT styling with a signature LED headlight, updated inverted LCD dash and larger diameter brake discs, the new MT-07 is the ultimate Hyper Naked middleweight.

The Dark Side of Japan

Yamaha’s focus is on the future, and by the end of the first decade of the 21st century the company’s product development teams were on a mission to create a new generation of future icons. To make a difference it is necessary to take a risk, and some of the company’s greatest designs have been those bikes that defied convention and dared to be different. So, when Yamaha’s designers and engineers set about creating a new breed of motorcycles, they made the conscious decision to break all the rules and take a whole new direction.

The next key decision in the development of this new generation of bikes was that they would be distinctly Japanese, with a unique look and feel that set them apart from every other brand. Playing with a variety of Japanese influences, including Tokyo’s motorcycle subculture, the development team’s focus would be on crafting a bike with a unique, thrilling and enjoyable riding experience, achieved primarily through the delivery of linear torque and easy agility. The look would be naked and mechanical, to give this new breed of bike a pure and muscular image. Every piece of technology would be there to serve the rider and create a more engaging, rewarding and satisfying riding experience.

Inspired by Japanese Subculture and created by some of the most visionary designers in the business, the MT-07 arrived shortly after the very first MT-09 was launched. The motorcycle world was changing, and Yamaha was leading the way with two of the most significant new models to be launched by the company in its long and illustrious history. With its unique package of price, performance and engine character, the MT line is proving to be one of the most successful product ranges ever produced by Yamaha.

New MT-07

Featuring distinctive new bodywork that reflects its pure, next-generation MT DNA, the 2021 MT-07 represents the progressive evolution of one of the world’s favorite naked bikes. A range of upgraded features include an engaging and character-packed engine, more powerful front brakes, Michelin tires, new LED headlight with LED turn signals and position lights, and LCD instruments, as well as tapered handlebars.

New colors and refined detailing reinforce the bike’s MT family DNA, and with an extremely competitive price point, the MT-07 is ready to maintain its leading position as the bike that works for everyone by offering the best balance of performance and value in its segment.

Next-generation design

The 2021 MT-07’s next-generation bodywork reflects the ongoing evolution of the MT family and gives the Hyper Naked bike a more refined and distinctive look with a quality feel. Key to the new look is a compact and minimalist new LED headlight assembly whose position lights and headlight deliver a signature look of the next-generation MT family. By tightly compacting the new bodywork, radiator and seat around the machine’s CP2 engine, the mass-centralized layout projects a real sense of torque and power. Many details – from the headlight accents and fuel tank covers to the engine stays and footpegs – enhance the overall feel of quality, underlining the MT-07’s winning combination of outstanding value with a premium specification.

LED projector lighting

Modern, compact and lightweight, the new bifunctional LED headlight features a centrally located high/low projector lamp that underlines the pure MT DNA it shares with the new MT-09. As well as giving the MT-07 a bold and distinctive new look, this compact projector headlight produces a powerful beam with well-defined edges that provide excellent forward visibility during nighttime riding. New left and right side LED position lights give the MT-07 its signature face and reaffirms its close family ties with the MT-09.

689cc CP2 engine

The latest 689cc 2-cylinder CP2 engine features a revised air intake duct design and optimized fuel injection settings, as well as a new 2-into-1 exhaust and new ECU. These changes give a more linear engine response and deliver a smoother torque/rpm curve for thrilling acceleration. The 2021 engine also features new Crystal Graphite engine covers as well as a new silver-colored exhaust pipe and new muffler and exhaust protectors. The crossplane concept engine’s 270-degree crank gives an uneven firing sequence with a more characterful exhaust note that emphasizes the torque feeling during acceleration with a more linear torque delivery for outstanding response at all engine speeds.

Larger diameter 298mm dual front discs

One of the most significant technical upgrades on the MT-07 is the new larger diameter front brake discs. Front dual disc size is increased from 282mm on the previous model to 298mm on the new bike, giving more stopping power and greater controllability. Together with the 245mm rear disc, the new system offers increased performance – and with the fitment of the new Michelin Road 5 tires, the increased stopping power is especially apparent in wet conditions. ABS is standard as well on the MT-07.

Wider tapered aluminum bars

Following numerous evaluations of clay models and many test rides using riders with different physiques, Yamaha designers have fine-tuned the new MT-07’s riding position in order to achieve added comfort and better controllability. The 2021 model is fitted with new aluminum tapered handlebars that are 32mm wider to give a more assertive riding position as well as a little extra leverage for easier maneuverability at slow speeds.

New LCD instruments

The 2021 MT-07 now features a higher specification LCD meter. The inverted dashboard and its compact and lightweight multifunction display with larger displays for the clock, gear, trip meters and tachometer provide clear information. The use of spot color gives an accent for the high-rpm range display – and new handlebar switches enables the rider to operate the meter more easily and efficiently.

LED turn signals

Along with the new LED headlight, the 2021 MT-07 is also equipped with new LED turn signals at the front and rear. Lighter and more compact, they complement the next-generation style of the bike and reinforce the premium specification of this best-selling Hyper Naked.

Latest generation tires

The latest Michelin Road 5 tires – 180/55-17 at the rear and 120/70-17 at the front – provide excellent levels of traction, sporty handling performance, and excellent wet weather handling qualities, making the MT-07 the ideal choice for both new and experienced riders.

New colors, graphics and finishing

For 2021, the new MT-07 is available in the latest color schemes and graphics that reinforce the MT family connection and give a premium feel to this outstanding middleweight. New black levers give the MT-07 a refined look.

2021 MT-07 Key Features

• Next-generation body design with pure MT family DNA
• New LED projector headlight with LED position lights
• 689cc crossplane technology CP2 engine
• 270-degree crank for linear torque delivery
• New 298mm dual front wave-type discs
• New wider aluminum tapered handlebars
• More comfortable and assertive riding position
• New inverted LCD meter
• New LED turn signals
• Latest generation Michelin Road 5 tires
• New colors and graphics

The 2021 Yamaha MT-07 will arrive at authorized Yamaha dealers beginning in January and will be available in Storm Fluo, Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Raven Black color schemes for $7,699 MSRP. To learn more about the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/hyper-naked/models/mt-07.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at https://www.shopyamaha.com.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media sites at www.facebook.com/yamahamotorusa, www.instagram.com/yamahamotorusa, www.twitter.com/yamahamotorusa. #Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

by Lijee Philip from https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com

Dealers point to the mid-sized bike Street, which accounted for 70-90% of sales in upcountry and metro markets and has been out of production for more than a month.

Harley-Davidson, which exited India in September, may have firmed up a manufacturing and distribution agreement with Hero MotoCorp, but the fate of its 33 dealerships spread across metros and smaller towns remains unclear.

Dealers point to the mid-sized bike Street, which accounted for 70-90% of sales in upcountry and metro markets and has been out of production for more than a month.

A section of Harley-Davidson dealers said continuing with many recently opened showrooms may not be viable, especially in smaller towns and in metros including the National Capital Region and Bengaluru, which have several such outlets.

“We would sell at least 20-25 motorcycles a month. Now, it is down to single digits. With no sight of Street coming back and the launch of a mid-size motorcycle from the Hero-Harley combine at least a couple of years away, dealerships feel they need to be compensated for the investments made or margins increased to sustain operations,” one of the oldest Harley-Davidson dealers said on condition of anonymity.

“As stated in our earlier announcement, Hero MotoCorp will sell and service Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and sell parts and accessories and general merchandise riding gear and apparel through a network of brand-exclusive Harley-Davidson dealers network in India,” a Hero MotoCorp spokesperson said in an email. “We don’t want to comment on anything further at this stage, as all specific details with regard to the transition process will be worked out in due course of time.”

“We will get back as soon as we hear from the global team,” Harley-Davidson said.

Dealers, still awaiting clarity from Harley-Davidson or Hero MotoCorp on the next steps, estimate the network will be scaled down by more than half to 13-15 dealerships from the current 33.

“We have no idea who ceases to be a dealer or who continues,” said Rishi Aggarwal, a Harley-Davidson dealer for New Delhi, Ludhiana and Chandigarh. “In 2013, when the company was more dependent on CBUs, there were 9-10 dealerships and now we seem to be getting back to those levels.”

“With sales reduced to single digits, the viability of upcountry showrooms is an issue,” said Adarsh Tulshan, a Harley-Davidson dealer for Kolkata and Ranchi, adding a call needed to be taken for smaller markets like Ranchi.

Many dealers had expanded and refurbished their showrooms as Harley-Davidson had firmed up plans to increase volumes for the Street and newer mid-sized motorcycles.

“When we signed the letter of intent, we were given no clarity on the expiry date. We invested for the long term and many of us refurbished our dealerships earlier this year,” said another metro dealer on condition of anonymity.

An official communication from Harley-Davidson is expected this week and it will give a clearer picture on the compensation or increased margins for dealers.

Harley-Davidson announced its tie-up with Hero MotoCorp last month. Other similar partnerships include BMW-TVS and Bajaj-KTM.

Being prepared for your first solo bike road trip is important
By Austin from Twisted Road

A road trip on a motorbike is an enjoyable experience. Being alone on an exciting trip with your mind can be really interesting and should be done at least once in a lifetime. That said, learning a few helpful tips from people who do this regularly would probably make your rides easier if you are setting out on a long-distance ride on your motorbike.

Being prepared for your first solo bike road trip is important.

Take into account all important aspects before you set out on the lane, whether you bring your own motorcycle or are planning to hire one. This will make the ride more fun and hassle-free.

Here are the top 10 tips that you shouldn’t miss along when you are on a motorcycle road trip.

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by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

If you’re a bike owner, it’s very hard to decide on what customization path to go down on, especially when there’s nothing to inspire the build you want.

One way would be to leave the design and the build to the custom shop of choice, and trust that what comes out the garage’s doors at the end was worth the while and money spent.

The owner of the Harley-Davidson Fat Bob we have here seems to have done just that. He trusted German garage Thunderbike with the creation of a unique machine, and what resulted is the aptly called Wrinkle Bob.

The bike takes its name after the colors used all over the bodywork. Featuring powder-coated military green and Wrinkle-style paint, it looks extremely solid and matt, while at the same time presenting us with a very soldiery feel.

Unlike most of Thunderbike’s projects, the Wrinkled Bob was not subjected to an extreme makeover as far as mechanical modifications go, but there are changes to talk about, especially considering how expensive they are.

The biggest upgrades compared to the stock motorcycle are the fitting of a custom aluminum fuel tank, an air ride suspension system, and a new forward control kit. The two-wheeler also sports new fenders and a custom exhaust system the Germans call Dragonfly.

The Wrinkled Bob is one of Thunderbike’s older projects. As usual, we’re not told how much the project cost to make, but given the parts listed as being used by the garage, we estimate the worth of the changes at around 7,500 euros (roughly $8,700 at today’s exchange rates). That’s not including the paint job and of course the base motorcycle – the price makes the Wrinkled Bob one of the more expensive projects the Germans have made over the years.

by Rob Hull from https://www.dailymail.co.uk

Covid commuter: Yamaha’s three-wheel Tricity 300 can be ridden with just a car licence and used in bus lanes – is it the answer for safe pandemic transport?

For those of us living or working in cities, getting around has been a whole lot more complicated in 2020.

With the Government repeatedly telling us to keep away from public transport if at all possible and traffic returning to near pre-pandemic levels, as more people use their cars, many have been left to make the difficult decision of taking risks with their well-being or enduring hours a week in jams to get to work.

But there could be an answer to the problem – and it comes with three wheels.

It’s called the Yamaha Tricity. And while it might look like a cross between a scooter and a Transformer, it could be the ideal commuting machine during the Covid pandemic…

I live in London and am one of the lucky ones who has been able to return to a coronavirus-compliant office a few days a week to escape the rigmorale of home working.

But having winced each time after touching a hand-rail on the bus or grumbled at the sight of people without face masks on the underground, I began researching alternative transportation options.

That’s when I stumbled across the new Tricity 300, which was released earlier this year.

As is the dead giveaway in the name, it has three wheels and a 300cc (well, it’s actually 292cc) single-cylinder engine.

Scooters like this are not out of the ordinary these days; Piaggio launched the first three-wheeler – the MP3 – way back in 2006, and it’s become a popular choice along with rival tripod scooters, especially among commuters and delivery riders in London and other major cities.

Yamaha Tricity 300 has loopholes to make it perfect for pandemic commuting

But the Tricity 300 has a few tricks up its sleeve. That’s because – unlike other tripod scooters – you don’t need to hold a motorcycle licence of any type to ride it.

If you’re over the age of 21 and have a full car licence you can drive one without having to undertake any extra training – even if you’ve never sat on a motorbike of any type before in your life.

This is due to a stipulation about the distance between the two front wheels.

The gap between them – 470mm – and the fact it has a foot pedal brake means the Tricity 300 qualifies as a trike rather than a motorcycle.

That means a ‘B’ car licence is adequate to ride one and, in theory, you don’t even have to wear a helmet – though we’d dissuade you from doing so on safety grounds and that it would likely to make you popular with police officers.

You can even take a passenger on the back, which is also fully within the rules.

And the Tricity has a few other loopholes up its sleeve that make it appeal to a wider audience than just dedicated bikers.

Not least the fact you can use it in bus lanes, which are free to access on a trike with a weight of less than 450kg in London – with the Tricity tipping the scales at almost half that (239kg). Perfect, for bombing past car drivers backed-up on congested routes.

You can also use dedicated motorcycle parking bays that are dotted around metropolises.

The one downside I discovered is, because of its length, it is not exempt from the Congestion Charge, which could mean taking the odd diversion if you’re destination is in – or route is via – central London.

How easy is it for novice riders?

As an experienced motorcyclist (I’ve been riding motorbikes since I was six), it took a little time for me to reset my brain to understand not just riding but handling a three-wheeled scooter from a novice’s perspective.

The first thing anyone would notice is that it’s a bit of a lump to wheel around – and most of the weight is top heavy due to the oddball front suspension system.

However, Yamaha has equipped the Tricity with something called ‘Standing Assist’, which is a button on the left handlebar that, when activated, locks the front forks in a fixed upright position.

This makes it far easier to wheel the bike around, whether that’s to manoeuvre it in a garage or slot it into a small space in a bike parking bay. So much so, in fact, that you can push it back and forth with one finger without having to worry about the bike toppling over.

The assist system can also be triggered when you’re slowing to a standstill, in traffic or when stopping at a junction for instance.

Creep below 8mph and an orange light illuminates on the digital dashboard to say it can be activated before the clocks hit 0mph.

It means you never have to put your feet down, if you can get the hang of it.

It sounds easy in theory, but it does take some time to master – even more so for a novice rider with just a car driving licence to their name.

That said, it rapidly become second nature, and you’ll quickly be levitating at every set of traffic lights.

Once you open the throttle – even the lightest twist of the grip – the Standing Assist automatically deactivates and the front end can freely rock from side-to-side again, so you need to give it some welly if you haven’t got a sole on the tarmac.

Once on the move, the Tricity is a nimble vehicle. Even at low speeds, it takes very little effort to lever it from one side to the other. The biggest compliment I can give it is that it feels very much like a conventional motorcycle at pace.

And it’s not slow. Even with just 28bhp at the back wheel and a weight of around a quarter of a tonne, it fires off the line with plenty of urgency.

It also comes with traction control on standard, which cuts the power if the rear wheel spins up on damp tarmac or if you’re too hamfisted – a safety feature rarely available on a scooter of this size.

Flat out, it will – reportedly – accelerate over an indicated 80mph, and thanks to the large fairing it offers ample wind protection if you do take it out on a motorway.

Security you just won’t find on two wheels

By far the biggest benefit of a scooter of this ilk is that it gives you something you’ll always lack on a motorcycle, and that’s added an added sense of security.

With two wheels out front, you could ride it across an ice rink and not fall off it.

It delivers this sensation of safety in droves and you quickly build up confidence to tip into corners in the wet without a concern in the world, rather than having the fear of the front wheel washing away from underneath you at any given moment.

Adding to this feeling of security is the extremely potent braking power.

While it has the traditional lever on the right bar to operate the front brake, both the left lever and additional foot pedal in the right-hand-side of the footwell anchor the brakes for all three wheels and is incredibly responsive.

We didn’t use the footbrake at all, to be honest, but grabbing a handful with your left mitt and the scooter comes to a standstill in an instant – and you don’t have to worry about the front wheel sliding from beneath you and leaving you in a heap in the road.

What are the running costs like?

In theory, the Tricity 300 returns a claimed 85.6mpg, depending on how aggressive you are with the throttle, so it takes quite a few miles for you to empty the 13-litre fuel tank. I was averaging around 70mpg, though predominantly riding through town.

Tax is just £44 a year, insurance will be substantially cheaper than car cover and consumables like the tyres and brakes last longer because the stresses put through them are shared across three locations rather than two.

The biggest stumbling block is the price, with an option-free Tricity 300 ringing in at a fairly steep £7,547. Put down a deposit of £1,574 and monthly payments on PCP finance fall to £89 over three years (and a final balloon payment of £3,780 if you want to keep it after the 36-month period).

Is it the ideal Covid commuter?

Even for someone who has never ridden a motorcycle before, the Tricity 300 will be a doddle to use – definitely a safer stepping stone than going from four wheels to two.

Unlike some bikes that will frighten newcomers with bundles of power and the possibility of it flinging you off at any moment, the Tricity instills confidence you can’t get with two wheels.

Throw into the mix that it has both a side stand and centre stand, hand-operated parking brake, keyless ignition and under-seat storage for two helmets – or a couple of rucksacks when you’re riding – and it has a modicum of the practicality you’d expect from a tiny city car. You also get a 12v-volt chargepoint on the inside of the fairing near your knee – though an USB would have been a better socket for 2020 life.

A winter pack option, which adds an apron, heated grips and knuckle visors to keep your hands toasty, is a recommended £280 addition if you are going to use it at this time of year.

The downside is the bulk – more so when you’re trying to move it around with the engine off. The standing assist function works well, but it still feels like you’re pushing a hulking shopping trolley around rather than a light motorcycle.

Commuters should be warned that you do need to take care when filtering. It feels wider than a skinny 300cc-comparable two-wheeler and the mirrors in particular – which are mounted just below the screen – are at the same height as most commercial vehicle wing mirrors, so can result in clangs with white van men.

But trundling past stationary traffic while you keep yourself isolated from the virus will fill you with a smugness that will make you forget about how cold it is commuting on a scooter in November time.

For getting to work safely, quickly and cheaply, there are few better choices than this.

Price: from £7,547

Engine: 292cc, single cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valves

Power: 28bhp

Top speed: 85mph

Fuel consumption: 85.6mpg

CO2 emissions: 77g/km

Kerb weight: 239kg

Fuel tank capacity: 13 litres

Length: 2,250mm

Width: 815mm

Height: 1,470mm

Seat height: 795mm

Wheelbase: 1,595mm

TRUMPTOBERFEST ABOUNDS ALL OVER THE U.S.A LEADING UP TO THE ELECTION NOVEMBER 3^RD, 2020.

NEVER IN MY LIFETIME HAVE I SEEN A “GREATER LOVE” DEMONSTRATED BY US CITIZENS, OR “DEPLORABLES” AS WE ARE KNOWN, FOR AN EVEN  GREATER PRESIDENT.

 “THEE PRESIDENT”, YOU KNOW, THE ONE THAT HAS DELIVERED ON PROMISES MADE DURING HIS CAMPAIGN, IS BEING HAILED THROUGHOUT THE BIKER COMMUNITY LIKE NO PRESIDENT EVER HAS BEFORE – NATIONALLY AND LOCALLY.

HIS SLOGAN FOR 2016 “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN” RESTORED THE LACKLUSTER FINISH OF THE PATRIOTISM THAT WE HAD IN OUR YOUTH. IN 2020, HIS NEW SLOGAN, “KEEP AMERICA GREAT AGAIN”, CONTINUES THAT DRIVING FORCE THAT WE NEED TO KEEP HIM IN THE WHITE HOUSE FOR FOUR MORE YEARS.

THIS IS A MAN WHO BELIEVES IN AMERICA, AND THE BILL OF RIGHTS. HIS PERSONALITY MAY NOT BE LIKED BY SOME, BUT YOU HAVE TO LOOK DIRECTLY AT OUR COUNTRY AND HOW IT WILL BE AFFECTED IF THE FAR LEFT, OR “DEMONRATS” ARE ALLOWED TO TAKE THE PRESIDENTIAL VOTE.  

YOU HAVE TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION A MAN WHO HAS LITERALLY PUT HIS LIFE ON HOLD FOR A COUNTRY HE SO STRONGLY BELIEVES IN. 

 

HE HAS TURNED OVER HIS SALARY AS PRESIDENT, BACK TO THE NATION THAT IS UTILIZING IT IN AREAS HE STRONGLY SUPPORTS. WHAT OTHER PRESIDENT HAS DONE THAT?

 THERE HAVE BEEN SO MANY TRUMP RALLIES AND EVENTS IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA, THAT IT IS PRETTY MUCH IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP TRACK OF THEM ALL. WE’VE HAD BOAT PARADES, FLAG WAVERS ON CORNERS, THOUSANDS OF SUPPORTERS LINING THE ROUTE WHEN PRESIDENT OR VICE PRESIDENT WAS IN TOWN, AIRPORT RALLIES, AND MANY IMPROMPTU EVENTS SHOWING OUR PATRIOTISM FOR A PRESIDENT SO LOVED.

BIKETOBERFEST 2020 WILL GO DOWN IN THE BOOKS AS ONE THAT WAS REALLY LOW ON ATTENDANCE DUE TO COVID 19 AND LIMITED RALLY ACTIVITY IN AND AROUND DAYTONA BEACH. THANK YOU ORMOND BEACH FOR STEPPING UP!

HOWEVER, THE PRESENCE OF PRESIDENT TRUMP WAS STRONG AND SHOWED THROUGH EVERYWHERE YOU WENT. 

WHILE DAYTONA BEACH CHOSE TO REFUSE VENDORS THIS YEAR, SEVERAL OF THE LOCAL SHOPS WERE OPENED AND HAD AN AMPLE SUPPLY OF TRUMP MERCHANDISE AVAILABLE FOR THE TRUMP SUPPORTER.

 

AND THE BAND PLAYED ON:   A USUAL STAPLE TO THE STATION ON MAIN STREET:   THE BEAREDED BROTHERS BAND:

https://www.thebeardedbrothers.com

 

 

 

 

BIKERS FOR TRUMP HAD A BOOTH AT WILLIE’S TROPICAL TATTOO DURING THE CHOPPERTIME SHOW ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15^TH, AS A LAST TIME REMINDER TO “GET OUT AND VOTE”!!!

SEVERAL PEOPLE STOPPED BY TO PICK UP THEIR TRUMP 2020 STICKERS THAT WERE HANDED OUT BY BFT.  

WITH A MUCH SMALLER CROWD THIS YEAR, WE STILL MANAGED TO DISTRIBUTE OVER 300 BFT/TRUMP BUMPERSTICKERS TO THE LOYAL FOLLOWERS OF CHOPPERTIME!!! 

A REMINDER THAT BFT IS A NATIONAL ORGANIZATION AND CAN BE LOCATED:

https://www.facebook.com/bikersfortrump 

AND TO LOCATE YOUR STATE BFT PAGE ON FACEBOOK, LOOK FOR:

 BIKERS FOR TRUMP OFFICIAL (YOUR STATE’S NAME)

BFT POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE:

https://www.bikersfortrumppac2020.com/?fbclid=IwAR1sA3O8kLfVyQcmPEIvHnvhv5SWohgMcSZufJD3Nzv3ROXeYWzSp1gxTp8 

 

AS RIDERS POURED IN, THE FINAL MEET UP SPOT – CRYSTAL RIVER MALL’S PARKING LOT BEGAN TO LOOK LIKE A SEA OF RED, WHITE, BLUE, BLACK AND CHROME! THIS WAS THE START UP FOR THE LONG LINE OF TRUMP SUPPORT THAT TRAILED NORTH ON US 19 TRAVELLING TO TO SCOOTER HAVEN FOR THE REST OF THE FESTIVITIES. 

WITH ARTDENT TRUMP SUPPORTERS ROLLING IN FROM MULTIPLE STATES AND MULTIPLE SITES, THERE WAS A COUNT OF 2380 SCOOTS THAT WERE PRESENT AND ACCOUNTED FOR THROUGH THE GATES OF SCOOTER HAVEN. 

“BO AND SHELLY BODETTE” 

 EVER THE MARINE, GUEST SPEAKER, 1^ST SGT. (RET.) WILLIAM BODETTE’S SPEECH INCLUDED PATRIOTS, MOTORCYCLES, AND TRUE AMERICAN PEOPLE. DEFINITELY MADE YOUR HEART BEAT PROUD!!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

 https://www.veteransplus.org/director/william-bodette/

 AS THE DAYS OF TRUMPTOBER COME TO A CLOSE, ALL WE CAN DO NOW IS MAINTAIN OUR PATRIORTISM AND “ GET OUT AND VOTE”. 

VOTE FOR THE MAN WHO HAS TRULY PUT HIS MONEY WHERE HIS MOUTH IS. A MAN WHO LOVES AMERICA AND HAS PUT HIS LIFE ON HOLD TO HELP RESCUE A COUNTRY THAT WAS SPIRALING DOWNWARD AND OUT OF CONTROL.  

A MAN WHO HAS COME THROUGH EVERY OBSTACLE THE DEMONRATS HAVE THROWN AT HIM INCLUDING IMPEACHMENT. 

THE FAKE NEWS MEDIA, AS HE CALLS IT, DOESN’T REPORT ON THINGS THAT THE LEFT DOES AND ARE EVIDENCED TO BE TRUE.   THE FACIST EFFECTS RESULT IN US BEING CENSORED ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND THE LIKE (SPOKEN AS A FACEBOOK PAROLEE MULTIPLE TIMES FOR 30 DAYS IN THE HOLE!  

STAND UP FOR YOUR COUNTRY AND LETS KEEP IT GOING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION!

 

VOTE RED ALL THE WAY!

VOTE AND USE YOUR AMERICAN PRIVILEGE!

KEEP IT “YES” TO THE BILL OF RIGHTS AND THE CONSTITUTION THE WAY IT IS NOW, AND SHOULD REMAIN!

AND TRUMP 2020 – GODSPEED DEAR PRESIDENT, YOU DEFINITLEY NEED IT!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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