Smaller scooters are a mature choice for cost-conscious commuters

Peugeot's V-Clic was the UK's best-selling 50cc scooter and this is evidence of a significant shift in the customer base, say the brand's UK distributor.

“Traditionally 50cc scooters have been popular with sixteen-year olds because you can ride them a year before you can apply for a car driving licence” explains Richard Davies, sales director for Peugeot Scooters in the UK. “However, increased youth unemployment and the general lack of cheap credit has significantly reduced customer numbers”.

This teenaged customer base is largely being replaced by an older age-group, as workers seek to reduce the cost of motoring. The rising price of petrol and diesel (now the second most expensive in Europe according to the AA) as well as the escalating cost of car insurance and road tax makes small capacity scooters an attractive alternative for short-distance journeys to work.

“Currently on offer at £929 and with the reassurance of the Peugeot lion on its front, the V-Clic is an affordable alternative to the second car. As it won't require an MoT for the first three years, road tax is just £16 per year and fuel consumption is frugal, running costs will be miniscule compared to a car,” comments Davies.

There is another reason why older drivers are attracted to 50cc scooters. Anyone who who obtained a full UK car licence before 1st February 2001 is automatically entitled to ride a “moped” (e.g. 50cc scooter) without L-plates (D-plates in Wales). Which means there is no complicated paperwork to complete before riding away to enjoy the freedom of two wheels.

Sales of new scooters in the UK rose by 11.7% last year and demand is up by a further 6.9% in the first four months on 2012. Peugeot Scooters reported a 46% rise in sales last year, which they attribute to a range of affordable 50-125cc machines aimed squarely at the commuter market.

For more information on Peugeot's complete range of scooters visit www.peugeotscooters.co.uk.

Skidmarx Hugger for Honda Crossrunner

Skidmarx have introduced a hugger for the Honda Crossrunner that is simple to fit and has an integral chain guard. Huggers are a popular addition for versatile machines like the Honda V4, which tend to be ridden in all weathers and often over long distances, as they protect the rear suspension and under-carriage from dirt, grime and debris thrown up by the rear tyre, helping to reduce cleaning and maintenance.

Designed and made in the UK, the Skidmarx hugger is constructed from lightweight GRP fiberglass in high quality gloss black finish, adding minimal weight and selling for £79.95 (including VAT).

There’s also a carbon fibre version available – which is around half the weight of the GRP item – priced at £134.95.

Both come complete with a fitting kit, mount from existing points and don’t require any modification to the machine.

Call 01305 780808 or visit www.skidmarx.co.uk for details.

GlobeBusters Southern African research ride

Motorcycle adventure specialists, GlobeBusters, are putting the finishing touches to the route of their first Southern Africa Expedition, due to take place in October.

Expedition guide Jeff Condon is currently riding and researching the 5500-mile route – starting in Nairobi and takes in Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia, ending at Cape Agulhas: the southernmost tip of Africa – making final preparations for the inaugural ride.

Although this will be the first time GlobeBusters have led an expedition on this particular route, Jeff and expedition leader Richard Millington both have extensive experience of the African continent.

Taking in no fewer than six countries, GlobeBusters’ Southern Africa Expedition offers riders and pillions the chance to sample some of the worlds most challenging roads and terrain, varied wildlife and culture. Highlights include the Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, Nkhotakota Game Reserve and Cape Town.

Adventure motorcycling fans can follow Jeff’s progress on the GlobeBusters' Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GlobeBusters, and will be able to view pictures and updates from the team when the ride gets underway for real, later this year.

Call 08452 304015 or visit www.globebusters.com to register interest for next year’s Southern Africa Expedition and for information on the complete GlobeBusters motorcycle expedition calendar.

New Footrest Kits for Triumph America and Speedmaster 2011-

Norman Hyde has expanded his range of footrest kits for modern Bonnevilles with the introduction of a set designed for Triumph America and Speedmaster models from 2011 onwards.

Designed & made in UK, Hyde's kit brings the footrests back by 2.5 inches (60mm), making the distance from the seat less of a stretch.

The mounting plates aretriple chromed for a brilliant and long-lasting finish, while the standard pressed steel brake and gear lever are replaced with Norman Hyde's cast aluminium items, which are nickel-plated and polished for a more authentic and traditional appearance.

Norman Hyde's cruiser footrest kits retail for £288.00 including VAT. Part Number: HBK301A.

For information on the complete range of Norman Hyde performance and styling accessories for both Hinckley and Meriden built Triumphs, call 01926 832345 or visit www.normanhyde.co.uk.

WEISE Aztec gloves with mcFit technology

Weise recently opened a distribution centre in North America and the Aztec gloves were developed in response to demand for short-cuff gloves from riders in the States. Manufactured in full-grain leather with integrated reinforcement over the knuckles, the soft lining is secured using new mcFit® technology.

Designed to fit comfortably under the sleeves of leather and textile motorcycle jackets, the Aztec gloves are held firmly in place by a wide adjustable retaining strap on the wrist.  There are stretch panels between the fingers and on the back of the hand to aid fit and flexibility. Vents on the upper fingers enhance comfort on hot days.

mcFit® Technology

This new technology was developed to solve the problem of glove linings becoming twisted or detached. Traditionally gloves are stitched together inside out. Linings are attached with a tab at the finger tip, then the outer layer is reversed over the lining so that the glove is ready to wear. This method can lead to the lining becoming twisted or even being pulled out completely if the tab breaks. With mcFit® technology, a thimble-shaped attachment is laminated to the finger tip of the lining, so that it can be glued inside the glove once the outer layer is the right way round.

Aztec gloves come in black and black/white in sizes S-3XL retailing for £49.99 including VAT.

Call 0117 971 9200 or visit www.weise-clothing.co.uk for info.

skin care from the Doctor

Ride-out the recession with SDoc100 Leather Care, a cost-effective way to keep riding kit in top condition.

Produced by Germany's number one motorcycle cleaning brand, it offers a complete protection and care system, forming an invisible, water-resistant barrier on the leather’s surface, helping prevent excess water soaking through to the liner and forming an uncomfortable, cold layer against the wearer’s skin.

It also gives back nutrients to the leather, keeping it supple and helping to maintain its natural breathable properties. With regular treatment it can also help protect against UV bleaching and act as a barrier against dirt too.

It's quick and easy to use, with no messy pre-treatments or complicated application procedures – simply spray directly onto the garment then wipe with a soft, dry cloth to clean and protect. Sdoc100 Leather Care retails for £13.98 and can be used on leather jackets, trousers and suits, as well as boots, gloves and other leather garments too.

For further information call 01256 704909 or visit www.sdoc100.co.uk or see the video at http://youtu.be/7OBqm-UkhyA.

Evolution of the Handroid revolution

Revolutionary Knox Handroid gloves are being updated during 2012 as part of the British company's strategy of continuous development.

Some changes are subtle, such as modified fit and seam construction, while others are more conspicuous, like the introduction of Knox's patented Dual Compound Scaphoid Protection System (DC SPS). Constructed with a combination of LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene) and TPR (Thermo Plastic Rubber) it has increased sliding ability - LDPE has a self-lubricating property, helping to reduce friction - and a built-in cushioning effect for added comfort.

Introduced in 2009, the Knox Handroid brought new concepts in comfort, fit and protection to motorcycle gloves and this season's models have been chosen for use in the premier class of racing in MotoGP by James Ellison. Recent developments can be seen on his Handroids (pictured). James survived a 125 mph crash during practice for the Qatar MotoGP, putting the updated Handroids to the ultimate test.

Ellison said: “After my second crash this year on the Aprilia MotoGP machine I was once again pleasantly surprised at the lack of injury to myself, especially seeing as the bike damage came to around £20k (sorry guys). I was, of course, wearing my Knox Handroids and Knox chest/back protector, which between the two took most of the impact as I landed front first onto my hands and chest and slid for a good 150 yards on asphalt, before rolling in the gravel. Amazingly, the gloves were still very much intact and could quite easily be used again. The innovative scaphoid protector did its job perfectly and saved my hands from any damage.”

The 2012 Knox Handroid is available in black, white, red and blue; sizes XS-XXL; at an RRP of £159.99 (including VAT). For further information call 01900 825825 or visit www.knox-armour.co.uk/glove_range

NEW: OptiMate™ Lithium, the world’s first Lithium-ion battery optimiser

It's often claimed that Lithium batteries require no long term maintenance charging. While this may be the case for those stored unused, when connected to a motorcycle Li-ion batteries are subject to the same issues as lead-acid: digital displays, LED warning lights, clock and alarm/immobilisers can all drain current and cause irreparable damage.
OptiMate Lithium, is the world's first optimiser designed specifically to maintain LiFePO4/LFP batteries and protect against voltage drop.

With Lithium batteries costing more than twice as much* as lead-acid versions, an effective optimiser such as OptiMate Lithium can pay for itself in no time.

Fully automated and requiring no input from the user, OptiMate Lithium assesses the battery's condition and selects the charge program to suit: Bulk Charge for rapid recovery or Low Volts, safeTº protection mode for over-discharged batteries.

Progress is tracked throughout, to prevent unnecessary charging, and an alternating 'charge and rest' maintenance program protects the battery against over-discharge for safe long term maintenance.

OptiMate™ Lithium is safe to use with all LiFePO4/LFP batteries and comes with traditional crocodile clips and a weatherproof lead that can be attached to the battery and routed to a convenient location.

It is available from all authorised dealers at an RRP of £109,99 including VAT. Visit www.tecmate-int.com for further details.

* Li-ion for Honda's CBF600 Hornet comes in at around £160, compared to £60 for Lead-Acid type.

Spring into action with Venhill

VENHILL LONG SHANK SPRING HOOKNew from motorcycle control specialists Venhill, the Long Shank Spring Hook makes fiddly and frustrating jobs simple.

Whether fitting a centre stand or replacing brake pads, removing and replacing the springs without the proper tools generally results in grazed knuckles and foul language.

Manufactured from high tensile steel, the Venhill Long Shank Spring Hook has a narrow shaft with an overall length of 200mm (8 inches), providing plenty of reach, while its T-bar design offers a firm and reassuring level of grip.

Priced at £4.90 including VAT, details of the Long Shank Spring Hook and the complete range of Venhill tools can be found at www.venhill.co.uk. Alternatively download the free colour brochure from www.venhill.co.uk/Downloads/venhill_tools_brochure.pdf.

Bags Connection tail packs for town and country

German luggage specialists Bags Connection have introduced two new tail bags for 2012; the compact Slipstream is ideal for commuting or day trips, while the Jet Pack has a capacity of up to 33-litres, creating potential for weekends away or touring. Both are manufactured from tough 1680 denier ballistic nylon for durability.

The neat dimensions of the 13-litre Slipstream make it ideal for urban life. With a backpack function, it is easy to carry off the bike and fits onto any bike with rear seat or flat rear luggage rack, using the four straps included with it (along with adhesive film to protect bodywork). A handy bungee net on top of the Slipstream is ideal for transporting useful items like waterproof rain suits. Its semi rigid construction means it retains its shape and there's also a waterproof inner bag, for complete peace of mind. Retail price is £94.37 (Including VAT at 20%).

For riders seeking an all-round luggage solution, the Jet Pack fits the bill. It can be expanded from 20 - 33 litres, converts into a stylish backpack and is attachable to almost any bike seat thanks to its secure 4-point click fastener system. The Jet Pack can also be fitted the the SW-MOTECH ALU-RACK. Its self-supporting construction with an outer compartment means that it holds it shape, not only looking good but making it easier to pack. A rain cover and adhesive protective film are both included for peace of mind. Price is £160.44 (including VAT at 20%).

For details on this and Bags Connection’s full range of carrying solutions call 01256 704909 or visit www.motohaus.com.

New: WEISE® Onyx Three-Season Jacket

Designed for riders who prefer a more European style and fit, the new WEISE® Onyx three season jacket features a soft touch outer shell, an offset zip and a tailored cut for a continental look.
Adjustable vents on the chest, forearms and across the back, a removable ISOTEX waterproof and breathable inner, and a detachable 140-gram thermal quilted liner make it a true three-season garment; the wearer can tailor the Onyx to the conditions.
Velcro adjusters at arms, waist and sides, plus stretch panels, give plenty of scope for the use of base- and mid-layers for added versatility; the Onyx also features waterproof YKK® zippers throughout that help to reduce the build up of water between the jacket's layers.  
Although soft and flexible, the outer shell is made from 600 denier material, with additional Ballistic fabric in impact areas for abrasion resistance. CE-approved armour is fitted at the shoulders, elbows and back. Reflective 3M detailing is also used, as an added safety feature.
Like all top-of-the-range WEISE® jackets, the Onyx has waterproof pockets – both outside and inside, alongside two hand-warmer pockets at the front and one large storage pocket at the rear.
The Onyx retails at £229, and is available in sizes Small-5XL. Call 0117 971 9200 or visit www.weise-clothing.co.uk for info.