Ride to Work Day shows congestion busting benefits of scooters.

Escalating fuel prices do not seem to have made British roads any less congested – according to a recent report from satellite navigation experts TomTom, seven of Europe's 20 most congested cities are located in the UK.

As a result scooters are enjoying a resurgence of popularity in Britain, with new registrations up by 16% compared to the same period last year.

In order to demonstrate the benefits of two-wheeled transport, Peugeot Scooters arranged a scooter and 'chauffeur' to collect a local councillor from the market town of Witney and transport him to a meeting in central Oxford, ranked 13th most congested city in Europe. This was one of many such events organised as part of International Ride to Work Day, when motorbike and scooter riders around the world show that life would be better if more people rode motorcycles and scooters every day, with time savings, less congestion and reduced travel costs.

Motorists would normally allow an hour to make the 10 mile journey into Oxford during the rush hour, particularly if they needed to find parking at their destination. The bus journey is scheduled to take 40 minutes, not including waiting times.

"We had a hassle free run into Oxford that lasted less than 25 minutes door-to-door, way quicker than either car or bus, and in plenty of time for the 9.30 start of my conference” says Duncan. “With free all-day motorcycle parking available nearby I can see why people are switching to scooters and motorcycles."

“Leaving Oxford just after 5 o'clock, we encountered stop-start traffic on the A40 on the return trip, but the scooter just glided past all the cars and lorries. It felt perfectly safe” he continues. “Even the heavy rain showers didn't affect us, with the scooter's bodywork deflecting the rain and leaving me almost totally dry. Not only was it much quicker than car or bus, but riding the scooter meant I wasn't stuck in a traffic jam wondering how long I'd be sitting there.”

Photo shows Cllr Enright setting off on the back of a Peugeot Satelis scooter.

For more information on Peugeot scooters visit www.peugeotscooters.co.uk or call 01202 823344.

Box Clever with SW Motech T-RaY Remote Control.

SW motech has introduced remote control top boxes to its luggage range. T-RaY top boxes can be locked and unlocked completely remotely, from up to 50 metres away. The transponder can be operated inside a pocket, leaving hands free and reducing the chance of lost keys. It will also lock automatically, after 20 seconds, to keep contents safe. An anti-tamper alarm is also built-in. T-RaY top boxes fit most bikes and scooters, and come in 28, 36 and 48 litre versions. Priced from  £151.21 including VAT.

T-Ray in detail

New from SW motech, the new T-Ray range of remote control top boxes are operated with a simple press of a button, removing the need to carry multiple keys or operate the fiddly lock systems that are often found on hard-luggage.

The T-RaY system allows the user to lock and unlock the top box completely remotely, up to 50 metres away, and from multiple directions. The transponder also works through clothing so it can be operated inside a pocket, leaving hands free to load and unload the box, and reducing the chance of lost keys.

For extra peace of mind, if the top box is left closed for more than 20 seconds, the T-RaY system locks it  automatically, to help ensure contents are not left unprotected. There’s also an integrated alarm, operated if the box is tampered with or opened, to help deter thieves.

Should the user prefer, the T-RaY can also be operated manually, with the key supplied.

SW Motech T-RaY Topcases can be fitted to a range of motorcycles and scooters, and come complete with a universal adapter plate for mounting directly on the SW Motech ALU-RACK and Scooter Racks. Each box features an integrated LED brake light, to help reduce reaction times of drivers and riders following, and comes complete with a soft lining to help protect contents.

Cases are available in stylish black, silver and white colour ways and come in three sizes: 28, 36 and 48 litres, priced £151.21, £181.46 and £221.80 respectively. All prices are inclusive of VAT at 20%.

For further info contact Motohaus Powersports on 01256 704909 or visit www.motohaus.com.

Ugly Fish eye wear from Down Under

Australia's number one selling brand of motorcycle sunglasses and goggles is now available in the UK.

Established in 2001, Ugly Fish safety eyewear and sunglasses are designed specifically for motorcycle riders, with wrap-around frames that sit firmly on the face and short flexible arms perfectly suited to wear under a helmet.

The “Multi-functional” range is supplied with a detachable foam gasket that sits behind the frame to keep out wind blast.  The arms can be unclipped and replaced with a removable adjustable strap (also supplied as standard) thus converting the sunglasses to secure goggles that keep wind, dust and other flying objects out of the eyes while riding.

Certified to the European safety standards EN1938-1999 (for motorcycle goggles) and EN1836-2005 (for UV protection) the lenses are manufactured from shatter-proof and impact resistant polycarbonate with anti-fog and anti-scratch hard coatings for guaranteed clarity and maximum vision at all times.

Many coloured/tinted lens options are available depending on model.  For spectacle wearers, Ugly Fish also offer a special gasket that will accept prescription lenses and is designed to clip behind the standard lenses of the sunglasses.  

Prices for Ugly Fish multi-functional sunglasses start at £39.99, which includes removable foam gasket, strap and hard case. Multi-lens triple packs (clear, smoke and yellow) retail at £64.99.

For more information call 0117 971 9200 or visit www.thekeycollection.co.uk.

The urban Droid

Designed to offer the urban rider the same level of protection as the acclaimed Handroid, the POD is the latest innovation from the Knox Hand Armour collection. Featuring three patented elements, (live exoskeleton, SPS scaphoid protection system and Boa lacing), POD is the first ever short cuff glove to use Boa closure system, so that it is totally secure.  An added benefit is that it will fit comfortably under most jacket sleeves. 

Like the Handroid full race glove, the Pod's live exoskeleton covers the fingers and thumbs, allowing unrestricted movement and linking to the gel-lined metapod, that covers the metacarpals and provides added protection for the back of the hand. 

On the palm the patented Sport SPS protects the scaphoid bone, which connects thumb and wrist, while flexible tear-resistant Kangaroo leather covers the inside palm and fingers. 

Unique to the POD is a short cuff, made from neoprene, which is more comfortable and gives a closer fit than leather. The cuff gives a multi adjustable fit that can be dialled in using a new lower profile Boa dial. Quick and simple to operate with a gloved hand, the Boa dial is located on the side of the cuff (on the Handroid it sits centrally) for a better fit under the sleeve of motorcycle jackets.

Retailing at £149.99 including VAT and produced in sizes XS-XXL, for more information on POD and Hand Armour 01900 825825 or visit www.knox-lab.co.uk.

TT WINNERS GET BEHIND SKIDMARX SCREENS

British motorcycle bodywork specialists Skidmarx are celebrating another clean sweep at the Isle of Man TT races, with winners in the Superstock (MIchael Dunlop - Kawasaki), Superbike and Supersport classes (both John McGuinness, Honda) all riding machines fitted with Skidmarx screens.  “This is the fourth year in a row that TT winners have raced behind Skidmarx screens, so it can't be a coincidence” smiles Managing Director Alan Roberts.

Overall TT Champion John McGuinness took two wins and four podiums behind his "trademark" big screens, specially created for him by Skidmarx in their Weymouth factory. Designed to create a larger air pocket for the rider, with greater optical clarity than standard road screens, Skidmarx' race screens are particularly important for long distance races like the TT.

In the blue riband Senior race all three riders on the podium - John McGuinness (TT Legends Honda), Guy Martin (Relentless Suzuki) and Bruce Anstey (Padgetts Honda) - had benefited from Skidmarx screens.

Consistently chosen by champions at the TT and in British Superbikes, Skidmarx race screen are all manufactured at their Dorset factory, where the company also produces its range of after market screens for regular road bikes.  Retail prices for the race-derived double bubble screens start £54.95.

Call Skidmarx on 01305 780808 or visit www.skidmarx.co.uk

Fuel for motorcyclists from SiS

Developed with input from athletes like Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman, Science in Sport energy products are ideal for rehydrating and energizing riders on the move and are available in various handy-sized packs for easy transportation.

Whether competing on track or spending hours in the saddle on the road, riders need to stay hydrated (for concentration) and energized (for physical performance).

Mild dehydration, often caused by sweating, leads to loss of concentration and light headedness, as well as affecting the body's performance.  Go Electrolyte from SiS provides fast rehydration and contains the salts required to keep the body in balance, while being as light on the stomach as water.  It is available in flavoured powder sachets (£1.00) which can be mixed with water in a sports bottle (£8.00).

SiS also produce Go Gels (£2.00) containing 22 grams of isotonic energy without the need for extra water and the Smart 1 version combines caffeine (for stimulation) with anti-oxidants, to combat some of the side-effects of caffeine (e.g. blurred vision).

Humans need carbohydrates for energy, but sugary snacks and processed foods often release energy too quickly, upsetting blood/sugar levels, leading to a feeling of tiredness (often experienced after a large meal).  Go Bars (£1.20) are made from all-natural ingredients, including fruit (equivalent to two portions from 5-a-day) and cereal, to satisfy hunger while delivering slow energy release.

Tested and approved by coaches at the California Superbike School, who often spend 10 hours a day on track, for more information call 08700 677 617 or visit www.v2mal.com

Stay cool and dry in the New Knox Dry Inside T-Shirt

The updated Dry Inside Comfort Fit T-Shirt from Knox is a T-Shirt with a difference, combining the natural comfort of cotton with the wicking properties of ‘technical’ fabrics, thanks to exclusive 3XDRY® technology.

Anyone involved in outdoor activities like motorcycling, cycling and hiking will know that comfort is the key to staying relaxed, focused and enjoying the journey; made from 95% natural cotton and 5% Elastane, the Knox Dry Inside Comfort Fit T-Shirt can be worn as a base layer, providing a soft and flexible layer between the skin and outer garments.

As the name implies, a relaxed fit is also part of the Comfort Fit T-Shirt’s specification, allowing greater freedom of movement than close-fitting base layers, and its subtle styling and detailing means it can be worn instead of a regular T-shirt too.

Unlike any other cotton T-Shirt it’s treated with 3XDRY®, an innovative finish that helps keep the wearer dry and regulates temperature. Used by fashion and outdoor brands like Hugo Boss and The North Face, the invisible 3XDRY® treatment absorbs perspiration from the inside of the T-Shirt and transports it to the outside where it evaporates, stimulating the natural cooling effect. In addition, the outer surface of the fabric repels water and dirt, keeping the wearer dry and clean. No fiddly treatments are required to keep it functioning either. To refresh, simply machine wash then iron inside out to reactivate the 3XDRY® layer.

The Knox Comfort Fit T-Shirt is available in unisex sizes XS-XXL, and is available at an RRP of £29.99.

For further information, call 01900 825825 or visit www.dryinside.co.uk.

New Bullet 500 is a classic choice for affordable motorcycling

Styled in the image of its 1955 namesake, Royal Enfield's latest 500cc Bullet offers riders classic motorcycling from a brand with a pedigree stretching back to 1901, all for less than £4000.  And with frugal fuel consumption of 80mpg running costs are equally modest.

Valenced steel mudguards, hand-painted gold coach-lines on the petrol tank and side panels, and winged Royal Enfield badges mean that the latest incarnation of the Bullet, which has been in continuous production since 1949, could easily be mistaken for a restored machine from the 1950's.  It even runs on British-made Avon Speedmaster tyres.  Like its predecessors, it is powered by a 499cc single cylinder engine with a bore and stroke of 84mm x 90mm.  However, the engine is Royal Enfield's new unit construction design, introduced in 2009, with 5-speed gearbox and wet multiplate clutch, for fuss-free gear changes.  The traditional chrome silencer contains a catalytic converter, so the Bullet 500 meets tough Euro 3 emissions regulations too.

Brakes, suspension and electrical system have all been updated; the 280mm front disc brake provides relaible stopping power, gas filled rear shock absorbers give a smoother ride and the 12-volt electrics power the halogen headlight, indicators and starter motor.  In fact the Bullet 500 is one of the few modern motorcycles to give owners a choice of both kick and electric starting.

Production at Royal Enfield's factory in south west India reached 70,000 units in 2010, the highest figure since it was built in 1955, and this record is on target to be passed this year following the launch of the Bullet 500, which is aimed at export markets.

Available through Royal Enfield's 50-strong UK dealer network, the Bullet 500 sells for £3,995 and is covered by a 2-year warranty.  See the Bullet 500 alongside the complete range of Royal Enfield motorcycles at their UK Open Weekend, 25th-26th June 2011.  Call 01386 700907 or visit www.royal-enfield.com for details.

Move with the times on a Peugeot Kisbee Scooter.

British commuters are switching to scooters in increasing numbers – registrations are up by 20% during the first four months of 2011.  Low running costs, typically 80-100 mpg and just £16 road tax, makes two-wheelers an attractive alternative to cars and public transport.  Now Peugeot, who have topped the sales charts for 50cc scooters in January, February and April this year, are giving commuters another reason to switch, with the offer of a voucher worth £300 against the purchase price of a new Kisbee.

Designed to be the perfect partner for urban travellers, the Peugeot Kisbee (rhymes with Frisbee) offers hassle-free commuting at a low cost to both the rider and the environment. Simple in concept, but advanced in design, the Kisbee's 49cc 4-stroke engine features a lighter con-rod and 3 chamber exhaust, so it produces more torque but remains compact, lightweight and reliable. Combined with the fully automatic transmission, it delivers more than enough power for nipping through congested urban areas, yet it emits around 30% less Co2 than an equivalent size 2-stroke scooter, while delivering optimum fuel efficiency (100 mpg).  Weighing in at 95kg, the compact Kisbee is easy to squeeze into the tightest parking space and is easy to manoeuvre through town and city traffic too.

Produced in Black, White, Blue and Red colour ways, and covered by a 24-month warranty, the Kisbee normally retails for £1549 but costs just £1249 after the voucher is applied.  Details of this offer and participating dealers can be found at www.peugeotscooters.co.uk or call 01202 823344.

Interphone Tribe hands-free Bluetooth communication for multiple riders.

The new Interphone Tribe allows radio communication between two or more riders up to 5km away from each other. Compatible with any Bluetooth headset, Tribe devices communicate using voice activation for complete hands-free operation. When paired with suitable headsets, Tribe can also handle mobile phone and GPS  simultaneously. Water and dust resistant, lightweight and compact, Tribe can easily be carried in a pocket.  Rechargeable, with up to 20 hours of battery life per charge, RRP is £109.99.

Using advanced PMR radio technology, the new Tribe from Interphone is designed to make communication on the road as easy as it is off it.  Its transceiver system allows multiple riders to be connected simultaneously, without wires and up to 5km away*.

Tribe can be paired to any Bluetooth helmet headset and allows limitless connection to any number of other Tribe users, for quick and easy chat between groups of riders.  Paired with the Interphone F2 or F4  Bluetooth headsets – or similar devices – it can also simultaneously manage mobile phone and GPS systems.

Tribe is voice activated for complete hands-free operation - helping the rider to stay focussed on the road – and automatically adjusts speech and hearing volume for crystal clear communication.

Water and dust resistant, lightweight (just 92 grammes) and compact, it can be easily carried in a pocket and the tribe's rechargeable battery delivers up to 20 hours of life per charge.

The Interphone Tribe is available at an RRP of £109.99. Call 01256 704909 or visit www.interphoneuk.co.uk, for further information on this and the complete range of Interphone motorcycle communication and entertainment systems.

* Approximate range; 5km open country, 3km suburban and 1km urban.

Skidmarx race bodywork for 2011 Kawasaki ZX-10R.

Skidmarx have developed a full Race Fairing and Single Seat Unit for the 2011 Kawasaki ZX-10R. Both are manufactured in the UK from lightweight 450 gram glass fibre, and are designed to directly replace the original body parts. They come in plain white, ready for paint and graphics, are supplied with Dzus fasteners and comply with ACU rules.

Developed for Bournemouth Kawasaki, who are campaigning Kawasaki’s flagship sportster in the Evo class of Britiish Superbikes, the race fairing and single seat unit are manufactured in the UK from lightweight 450gm CSM, backed with woven cloth, a light form of fibreglass.  Both come pre-drilled to fit onto existing mounting points, and are supplied with quick-release Dzus fasteners, for easy fitting and removal. Unlike the road fairing, the race version has no headlight aperture or indicator mounting points, and features an enclosed belly pan with catch tray, to comply with ACU rules.

The ZX-10R race fairing and single seat unit come in plain white, ready to be painted in team colours.  Priced at £269.95 and £114.95 respectively, inclusive of VAT, Skidmarx race fairings and seat units are a cost effective replacement for original road bodywork for owners contemplating a track day outing. 

Matching race screens, made from 2mm clear acrylic, retail at £42.95.  Double bubble (£54.95) and super tall 'TT' (£59.95) versions are also available.

For more information call  01305 780808 or visit www.skidmarx.co.uk.