February 27, 2007
Scooter ride 'one of the best'
The weekend's National Classic Scooter Rally kick started along Marlborough's Queen Charlotte Drive - one of the best scooter rides in the country and one of the best rallies yet, according to the organisers.
The rally was held in Nelson and attracted 70 riders on Vespas, Maikolettas, Heinkels, Triumphs and BSAs.
The machines ranged in age from the late 1940s through to modern scooters.
About 40 riders met up in Picton on Friday and rally organiser and scooter fanatic Mark Brown, who owns 30 machines, said they headed to Nelson via the road at the base of the Marlborough Sounds.
"It's one of the best in New Zealand, especially for scooters, it's so twisty and windy."
Posted by Frank at 9:13 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 21, 2007
Vespa GTV250 - 60 years of style
All I could think as I rode the Vespa GTV250 in unseasonable rain along Cape Town's Atlantic coast was: "Who on earth will lay out 70 grand for a scooter?"
By the time I returned the bike to the dealer a couple of hours later I had my answer: brand buyers, that's who; people who spend more on a Rolex than my new 650cc sportbike cost even though a Japanese digital at a hundredth of the price will keep time just as well.
People for whom a bonnet badge defines the worthiness of their car and people who wouldn't be seen dead on a scooter unless it said Vespa on the legshield.
Which is rather a pity, because the GTV250 is actually a very capable scooter. It's the production version – mechanically identical - of the ultra-scarce GT60, a very few of which were produced in 2006 to mark the 60th birthday of the badge.
There are only two in South Africa and neither is for sale; they've been retained by Vespa SA as marketing tools. But the GTV250, in less-fancy colours and with polished aluminium rims rather than the chrome of the anniversary model, is available – albeit at an eyebrow-raising R69 950.
Posted by Frank at 7:14 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Entrepreneur rides scooter to success
Two years ago, Michael Duckworth reached his limit with Dubai parking hassles. The solution, he decided, was Vespa.
For six decades, Italy's Piaggio has manufactured this sleek, stylish and easy-to-operate scooter, long popular with European fashionistas. But Vespa was not sold in Dubai. Until then, Duckworth says, "I thought entrepreneurs needed two things - business acumen and a good idea. I lacked an idea."
Now Duckworth had his idea. Dubai needed Vespa. So the 35-year-old began his transition from life-long "salaryman" to entrepreneur. Along the way, he learned some lessons.
Lesson one: Market research
Instinct told Duckworth that Dubai and Vespa were made for each other. Dubai has more months of splendid weather compared to three in Europe where Vespa is very popular.
Vespa is also seen as cool, very svelte, says Duckworth, which fits beautifully with Dubai's cosmopolitan lifestyle. But he backed up gut feel with market research.
Demographics told Duckworth that European expats who know the Vespa brand were a big share of the Dubai's population.
Duckworth also thought that scooters would be valuable in business and government. Fast food delivery was the obvious play. But scooters had other applications. Most European postal services use them, for example.
Posted by Frank at 7:12 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 20, 2007
Motorbike thefts soar [UK]
MOTORBIKE thefts have soared in Halton since New Year.
Cheshire Police said 18 motorbikes and scooters - four more than Warrington - have been stolen in the borough since the start of January.
Phil Buckley, crime reduction advisor for Halton Police, said: "Theft doesn't have to be an inevitable part of owning a motorbike or scooter. A lot of vehicle crime results from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them."
advertisement
Mr Buckley urged riders to follow a few simple rules:
-- Get a Thatcham or Sold Secure - an approved electronic immobiliser professionally fitted. Try to get one approved by your insurance company.
-- Use security devices and keep keys with you.
-- Always put the steering lock on.
-- Use parking spaces built for motorbikes that have stands or security loops. Use for secured motorbike or scooter spaces in car parks in police-approved Secure Car Parks scheme.
-- Put motorbike or scooter in a garage and make sure it has good locks. If the garage is alarmed - use it. Ground anchors are also a good deterrent.
-- Mark bikes with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) (frame number), registration number or other unique identifying number.
For more information visit crimereduction.gov.uk, contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
Posted by Frank at 3:37 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 18, 2007
1946 Vespa Clock
It's go time! Celebrating the retro-cool of our all-time favorite two-wheeler, this racy Vespa clock is modeled after the headlight of its very first scooter, introduced in 1946. It features the original signature green metal casing and chrome bezel with the lens replaced with an apropos analog clock. Takes one AA battery (not included). Imported. 4" diam., 6 1/2" long. Price: $178.00
Posted by Frank at 1:54 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 15, 2007
Vespa works sex marketing in South Africa
This article about a faux-buzz campaign for Vespa in South Africa is pretty amusing. Basically, an average looking schmoe goes to a cafe, then a few minutes later a gang of female hotties come up, ogle the bike, then the guy gets on, revs up and twirls away -- with the hotties "chasing" him. The whole time nondescript makreting gnomes are putting flyers on nearby cars. Sexy.
Posted by Frank at 9:44 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 13, 2007
New Era Lambretta to bow at Dealer Expo
SUCCESSOR TO THE LAMBRETTA, THE L-SERIES FINAL PROTOTYPE SHOWN AT THE DEALER EXPO 2007 IN INDIANAPOLIS
CMSI, the manufacturer of the TNG (Twist n’ Go) motor scooters, presented the latest L-Series prototype at the 64th Milan International Motorcycle Show (EICMA). This latest prototype represents several improvements from the initial prototype that received rave reviews during the USA tour in 2005.
EDI (an engineering and design firm based in Italy) has recently completed the latest round of engineering improvements and testing on the second L-Series prototype scooter that was originally developed by renowned scooter builder Frank Sanderson of Scooter Innovation in the U.K.
This latest L-Series configuration incorporates many improvements that were based on market feedback and engineering input. The L-Series will utilize state of the art components while staying true to the classic style that echoes the design of the classic Lambretta motor scooter.
“I find it particularly interesting and unique the rediscovery of the precise style of the Lambretta with avant-garde technical contents, as far as engine and other modern components are concerned.” Says Marco Doveri of EDI.
According to Tom Lynott, President of CMSI, the manufacturer of the new L-Series, “Lambretta enthusiasts will love the new L-Series for the blend of authentic classic styling and modern engineering. We look forward to selling the new L-Series in Europe, N. America, Australia, Japan, Korea and other markets where discriminating buyers want performance and reliability packaged in a scooter with the classic heritage and looks of Lambretta.”
“The L-Series scooter builds on CMSI’s tradition of being a leader in designing, manufacturing and supporting affordable, high value scooters. This will be the most powerful luxury scooter available to authorized CMSI dealers around the world.” Says Piero Manzini, Interim President, CMSI International.
More details regarding initial production of the L-Series and specific technical data relevant to the bike will be released in the USA at the Indianapolis Powersports Dealer Expo, Feb 17-19, Booth #5219.
Posted by Frank at 12:46 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Study: Fleet of Scooters Would Improve NYC Environment, Congestion
Adding Scooters to Traffic Mix Could Save New Yorkers Time and Money Lost to Traffic Delays, Reduce Emissions That Contribute to Global Warming
NEW YORK -- Data from a new traffic model released today demonstrates that the nation's largest city could significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, a key factor in the global warming debate, and reduce fuel consumption while saving a great deal of time lost to congestion by simply incorporating more motor scooters into the commuting vehicle mix.
The results of this study directly respond to growing concerns about traffic congestion in New York City. In his December 2006 sustainability speech, Mayor Michael Bloomberg discussed the City's growing congestion challenges and set a goal to reduce New York's emissions by 30 percent.
The traffic model, examining a central section of midtown Manhattan in New York City, was developed by transportation engineering and planning firm Sam Schwartz PLLC using Synchro/Sim Traffic 6.0 -- an industry-standard tool deployed by transportation engineers. Through modeling, the simulation incorporated scooters into the traffic mix in 10 percent increments -- examining the impact of moving from 100 percent cars (including small SUVs, vans, etc.), to 90 percent cars/10 percent scooters, to 80 percent cars/20 percent scooters, and so on.
The results of the core simulation were extrapolated to encompass the entire Manhattan Central Business District (stretching from 60th Street to the lower tip of Manhattan). By shifting the daytime vehicle mix to 80 percent cars/20 percent scooters, the following would result annually:
* A total decrease in delay of more than 4.6 million hours per year --
which translates to time savings of nearly 100 working hours per person
* A reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by over 26,000 tons
(52,000,000-pounds) per year
* A decrease in fuel consumption by over 2.5 million gallons per year
* A total savings for New York City of more than $122 million per year in
fuel and labor productivity
The team at Sam Schwartz PLLC noted that the simulation was conservative in its estimation of the positive impact of scooters -- as it did not factor into the model that two scooters can occupy a single lane side-by-side when riding, as permitted by New York law.
"This is the first traffic model for New York City to assess the potential impact of shifting the traffic mix to a greater percentage of two-wheel vehicles like scooters," said Sam Schwartz, president/CEO of Sam Schwartz PLLC and a former New York City Traffic Commissioner. "With a population of over 8 million, and millions more commuting in each weekday, New York is one of the most heavily congested areas in the world. Given the current dialogue about traffic congestion and environmental impact, it is extremely timely to examine the positive implications of a change in the vehicle mix."
"Throughout the world, scooters are recognized as a smart transportation alternative, and this traffic simulation underscores the tangible impact that two-wheel vehicles can have on a major urban area like New York City," said Paolo Timoni, President and CEO of Piaggio Group Americas, which sponsored the modeling project. "The impact of this kind of shift has already been seen in London, which instituted congestion tariffs for commuting cars. That policy led to a significant increase in vehicles like scooters being used for commuting. Research is now validating that even small behavioral changes, like using scooters for a portion of one's commuting, can benefit the economy and help address critical environmental issues like global warming."
Source: Piaggio Group Americas
Posted by Frank at 12:41 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Bajaj Auto re-enters Indian scooter segment with `Kristal`
Bajaj Auto re-entered the scooter market after an eight-year gap on Wednesday by launching its non-gear scooter `Kristal`.
S. Sridhar, vice-president, marketing and sales, Bajaj Auto said that the company is aiming to sell 4,000 to 5,000 units a month in the first three months and 10,000 units per month after six months.
The scooter market is estimated at 10% of the two-wheeler market. Of this, the non-geared scooters count for 35,000 vehicles a month. The company feels that Kristal demonstrates the technological superiority of Bajaj Auto and has 25 special features. The two-wheeler giant would also come up with another light sport scooter which is under advanced stages of development.
The all-new 4-stroke Kristal comes with the patented DTS-i technology along with ExhuasTech for better pickup and mileage. The scooter priced at Rs 35,417 (ex-Chennai). The scooter would be initially available in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, and in other States after three months.
Posted by Frank at 12:39 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Free scooter and motorcycle lessons in Gloucester
Scooter coaching aims to curb accidents in South Gloucester
A weekend of free coaching is being offered to motorcycle and scooter riders in Gloucester to help cut down on the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads.
The coaching, which takes place at the end of the month, has been organised by South Gloucestershire Council's road safety team with the aim of improving riding standards and survival skills.
Scooter riders can take advantage of a two-day course on the weekend of February 24th and 25th.
The course features braking and manoeuvring exercises as well as theory and on the second day the students arrive for an individually assessed ride.
For motorcyclists the course lasts for one day with an illustrated theory discussion covering observation, hazard perception, anticipation, positioning and ride planning.
This is followed by a three-hour group ride with an instructor where each student will take a turn to lead before receiving a constructive debriefing on their riding.
Both instructors are retired Class 1 advanced police motorcyclists and one was an advanced police instructor so they have a wealth of experience to offer.
Posted by Frank at 12:31 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 12, 2007
Scooter vandalism often goes unreported
The only thing on Juliana Peters' mind as she walked out of her apartment the morning of Jan. 26 was downing her daily Starbucks before class.
But all of the espresso in Gainesville could not have jolted her like the wake-up call she got next: the sight of her scooter on the hood of her car.
"It's the strangest thing that's ever happened to me," said Peters, a UF junior.
After receiving a note on her scooter in October that asked her to stop taking up an entire parking space, Peters said she started leaving it in the grass. She thought that would solve the problem.
Posted by Frank at 12:50 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 7, 2007
Scooter Sales Getting a Lift From High Gas Prices
HARTFORD, Conn. — A growing number of Connecticut drivers are hitting the road on gas-friendly scooters, saving money while taking in the sights on their daily commutes.
About 115,000 new scooters were sold nationwide in 2006, a significant jump from the approximately 50,000 sold in 2001, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council.
Several Connecticut commuters and dealers say drivers here are part of that growth as gasoline prices and commuting times have increased.
"This is a very economical, comfortable machine," said Waterbury resident Richard Morris, 52, who commutes 22 miles each way by scooter to his job at Yale University's School of Nursing in New Haven.
He estimates that his 151cc TGB Sunset, which gets about 75 miles per gallon, costs him less than one dollar in fuel each way.
No firm figures are available on the number of scooters in Connecticut, since most are classified under the same category as certain small-engine mopeds that do not require state registration or a driver's license to operate.
Posted by Frank at 1:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Aussie police blast scooter chaos
SCOOTER riders are causing traffic chaos by tailgating, running red lights and riding four abreast, Gold Coast traffic police say.
National annual scooter sales have more than tripled in three years, with industry experts attributing the rise to fuel economy, easier parking and price, which can be as little as $3000.
Queensland has become home to more than 20,000 scooter and moped riders, most with no experience of riding fast on two wheels.
Yet they ignore helmet laws and the need for protective clothing.
Hospitals have reported a jump in injuries from scooter crashes.
"It's a huge problem – there's been a dramatic increase in them on the roads," said Acting Inspector Paul Biggen, the Gold Coast regional traffic co-ordinator.
Posted by Frank at 1:41 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 1, 2007
France's finest find politico's son's stolen scooter
If your motor scooter is stolen in France, there is little chance that you will see it again. But if your name is Sarkozy, it seems, the odds increase in your favour.
As Nicolas Sarkozy, the Interior Minister and chief law enforcer, was meeting Tony Blair in London yesterday, France was regaled with how a crack team of sleuths solved the case of his son’s 50cc Piaggio.
Jean Sarkozy, 19, lost his scooter on January 7 after he left it unlocked outside his mother’s home in a wealthy Parisian suburb.
Days later, police in the northeastern suburbs of Seine-Saint-Denis — scene of the 2005 riots that were inflamed by Mr Sarkozy’s harsh approach — were alerted to the rare sight of a scooter with the “92” plate of the prosperous western Hauts-de-Seine. When it was identified as the Sarkozy machine, Paris sent in the crime squad.
They took fingerprints and DNA samples from a crash helmet. These were traced to a pair of 17-year-olds, who had had earlier dealings with the law. They and another teenager confessed, police said.
The operation, thought to have cost thousands of euros, drew mockery from the Federation of Angry Motorcyclists. “This is quite funny, but it has nothing to do with the ordinary motor-cyclist,” said Frédéric Brodziak, the chief motard en colère (angry motorcyclist). “When we go to the police, they always tell us that we have not the slightest chance of finding our two-wheeler. Sometimes we know the thief, but the police say it is impossible to go into estates like that to retrieve our property.”
Small scooters account for three quarters of the 85,000 motorcycles stolen annually in France. Only 8 per cent of the thefts are solved.
Posted by Frank at 5:14 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Foreign Scooter-Maker Plans Conn.Factory
ANSONIA -- A foreign maker of motorcycles and scooters announced plans Monday for a factory in Connecticut, a highly ambitious proposal embraced by elected officials, but that runs counter to the forces that have brought a long exodus of manufacturing jobs from the state.
Eugro, an international company with plants in Greece and China, said Monday it expects to start with 250 to 500 employees in the state by the end of this year, and could grow to 1,000 or more workers. The company would open a plant to assemble its Eurospeed motorcycles and scooters, with components made in China and other foreign countries.
"You read about 1,000 jobs leaving this country and going over to China. Isn't it nice something is coming from China into here?" said Michael Healey, president of Eurospeed USA, who is also president of Healey Ford of Ansonia.
Eurospeed would make its first foray into U.S. manufacturing with its plant in Connecticut.
The motorcycles and scooters aren't widely available in the United States, although some of Eugro's other products, such as flat-screen TVs, are. The company sees an opening in transportation here, saying it wants to give twenty-somethings the same low-cost, high-mileage alternative to cars that is popular in other parts of the world.
Posted by Frank at 5:12 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Rare scooters stolen
THIEVES have stolen three rare mopeds worth a total of £15,500 from a shed in Stockton.
The crooks are believed to have taken the bikes sometime on Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning at an address in Ragpath Lane.
The first moped, a Lambretta GP200, was green and was valued at £7,500 with a licence plate of FWB 889H. The second bike was a bronze coloured Lambretta L1125 with licence plate PKH 224F and was worth £5,000. The third moped was a cream coloured Vespa T5 with an unknown number plate and was valued at £3,000.
Posted by Frank at 5:11 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
