June 24, 2007
New York City May Establish Easy Scooter Parking
With subway fare hikes looming and Manhattan traffic often at a standstill, New Yorkers looking for faster, cheaper, and greener commutes are opting for motor scooters in record numbers. Thousands of new two-wheelers are weaving their way through lanes of stopped cars, and sales at Vespa SoHo, already up by more than 60% last year, are climbing even higher.
As Mayor Bloomberg pushes a proposal to solve what he is billing as a crippling congestion problem in Manhattan, the city is showing a new willingness to create some parking perks for scooter riders.
New leadership at the city's Department of Transportation, put in place since Janette Sadik-Khan became commissioner in April, is for the first time considering parking discounts for motor scooters in municipal lots, the deputy commissioner for traffic, Michael Primeggia, told The New York Sun through a spokeswoman.
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Orlando Scooter Club Forming
Robert Ebert of Eustis is organizing a group called "Golden Triangle Scooter Club," which is open to any interested scooter enthusiasts who ride scooters with engines sizes above 49cc.
Ebert's idea is for members of the new group to take one-day trips to springs in the Ocala National Forest, to nearby parks for picnics or to enjoy leisure countryside cruising.
"Riders who have 49cc scooters may want to consider upgrading to a more powerful scooter for safe navigation on roadways in this area and for longer rides," said Ebert.
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Riding Scooters Legally
If your preferred mode of transportation is a scooter, you'll want to take a minute to make sure your machine meets state requirements before taking it to the streets this summer.
Many popular types of scooters are not eligible for registration by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, and therefore are not legal on public roads, Lt. Kevin Grubb of the Frederick Police Department said.
To ride on public streets, a scooter must have the following: a seat for the operator; two wheels, one of which is at least 10 inches in diameter; a step-through chassis; a motor with a rating of 2.7 brake horsepower or less; and an automatic transmission. Of course, all scooter operators must have a valid driver's license as well.
If your scooter or moped doesn't meet all state requirements, it's considered a "novelty" and cannot be operated on public roads. Police can fine riders who ignore the law or even confiscate offending scooters.
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California Road Trip
TEMECULA ---- There may be a reason why there are no "Vespa gangs." Turquoise scooters ridden by drivers with argyle sweaters certainly don't conjure the same emotions as the image of chromed-out motorcycles with leather-clad captains.
And that's okay.
"We all know we're dorks," said Len Smith of Fallbrook. "Once you're riding a scooter, you've got nothing to prove."
Saturday marked Smith's third year taking part in Temecula's annual Vespa ride, now called "R'Idyllwild."
Matt Gordon, event organizer and member of the Cafe Moto Vespa Club, said while the ride typically is a jaunt through Temecula Wine Country, this year, the group opted for a longer ride.
Beginning at 10:30 a.m., the group of approximately 100 Vespas left the Tower Plaza parking lot and headed north to Winchester Road to continue to Hemet and, ultimately, Idyllwild. The group would then connect to Highway 371 to bring them back into Temecula at roughly 3:30 p.m.
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June 23, 2007
Michelin Releases Motorcycle Tire Recall Information
Consumers advised to schedule appointments with servicing Michelin motorcycle tire dealers to exchange tires
GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Michelin is recalling 19,924 motorcycle tires in the United States and Canada. Currently, the company is working with Michelin motorcycle tire distributors and servicing Michelin motorcycle tire dealers to expedite the recall process.
The recall is in effect for two front tire models: Michelin Pilot Power 2CT and Michelin Pilot Power, both size 120/70 ZR 17 (58W), and labeled "MADE IN FRANCE." These tires may also be identified by the following Department of Transportation (DOT) identification numbers, found on the sidewall of the tire: DOT 6UCW 980T and DOT 6UCW 979T. No other Michelin tires are affected by this action.
At speeds exceeding normal highway riding, the recalled tires may exhibit an abnormal deformation in the tread, which may be accompanied by small localized sections of tread separation or loss. In addition, the recalled tires could experience a slight to excessive vibration and create an unstable riding condition.
Notice to Consumers
Consumers affected by this action are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a servicing Michelin motorcycle tire dealer to have their recalled tire replaced, at no cost. Tires will be replaced with an authorized Michelin replacement tire, and service costs for the exchange will be reimbursed to the Dealer by Michelin, at a predetermined rate. There should be no direct cost to the consumers participating in this recall.
Consumer questions, including instructions for identifying recalled tires, locating participating tire dealers, or general inquiries, may be directed to Michelin Consumer Relations, toll free, at 866.324.2835.
Information for Michelin Tire Dealers
All motorcycle dealers and service centers that handle Michelin tires are encouraged to participate in this tire recall. Instructions for receiving replacement tires, handling recalled tires, completing Michelin warranty claim forms, and answering consumer questions are being distributed to dealerships throughout the United States and Canada. Motorcycle dealers and service centers that have not yet received this information, but would like to, may contact either a Michelin motorcycle tire distributor or Michelin Consumer Relations, toll free, at 866.324.2835.
About Michelin
Dedicated to the improvement of sustainable mobility, Michelin designs, manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, hotel and restaurant guides, maps and road atlases. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (http://www.michelin-us.com/) employs more than 22,000 and operates 19 major manufacturing plants in 17 locations.
Source: Michelin
via Car Buyer's Notebook
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Harley-Davidson Dealers Host 'Garage Parties' for Women
Sorry Fellas, This Motorcycle Garage Is for Ladies Only
CHICAGO -- Harley-Davidson is opening the metaphorical garage door to thousands of women interested in motorcycling. Over the past decade, women have increasingly embraced the sport of motorcycling -- seeking the freedom and empowerment associated with riding solo on the open road.
Women represent 10% of the U.S. motorcycle population, and nearly 12% of new Harley-Davidson purchasers are women. The Garage Party events are one way that Harley-Davidson reaches out to women to encourage them to learn more about motorcycling.
In 2006, Harley-Davidson piloted the Garage Party concept with its dealer network, and the response was so successful that the Company updated the program and recently launched a new section on the Women & Motorcycling Web site, devoted to Garage Parties and upcoming women's events.
Women-only Garage Parties are being held at dealerships across the country. On June 14, Harley-Davidson held a Chicagoland Garage Party at the distinctive Museum of Contemporary Art Warehouse hosted by Karen Davidson, creative director of general merchandise and great-granddaughter of founder William A. Davidson. Several area dealerships supported the event, including Wild Fire Harley-Davidson, Chi-Town Harley-Davidson and Illinois Harley- Davidson.
At the end of the evening, one lucky Chicago woman, Stacy Baustert, won a certificate to learn to ride through the Harley-Davidson Rider's Edge New Rider Course, as well as a trip to Femmoto in Las Vegas, October 5-7, to demo ride Harley- Davidson and Buell motorcycles after she earns her license. She is planning to bring her mother, who is a rider.
Intimidation-Free Zone
The Harley-Davidson Garage Party events provide an inviting environment for women to learn more about motorcycling and to meet other women who are interested in riding. Party guests can expect activities that will be both entertaining and informational with topics including a review of the basic motorcycle controls, how to customize a motorcycle's ergonomics and how to choose proper riding gear.
"Women ride for the same reasons as men -- freedom, adventure and individuality, but many women approach the learning process in a different way," said Leslie Prevish, product communications manager for Harley-Davidson Motor Company. "Women tend to spend more time investigating the sport prior to getting involved, and many enjoy learning in a group setting. Garage Party events give women an interactive way to gather information and have fun doing it."
The Party Plan
Garage Party event attendees are typically organized into small groups to get their first taste of the camaraderie that goes along with riding. Groups visit four informational stations, including:
-- 'Motorcycle Orientation' to learn the basics of motorcycle controls and
discover key differences between Harley-Davidson and Buell motorcycle
families.
-- 'MotorClothes' to discover the important attributes needed in
motorcycle gear.
-- 'Customization' to learn how to customize a motorcycle to reflect a
rider's personal style and ergonomic needs.
-- 'Self-Service' to show that just about anyone can handle the weight of
a motorcycle.
Between stations, women get the chance to interact with each other, and hear from women who are already living their motorcycle dreams.
"Garage Party events give women a no-pressure chance to learn, socialize and ask questions," added Karen Davidson. "We're excited to provide events like this for women who are looking for information about getting into the sport but just aren't sure how to do it."
For some women, learning to ride is a celebration of a new life stage and a chance to show their individuality. Others have been passengers for years and decided that now is the time to grab life by the handlebars and embrace the sense of freedom, adventure and individuality that comes with riding.
Any woman who is looking to take the next step and learn more about motorcycling should contact her local dealer to find a Garage Party event taking place in her neighborhood -- but space is limited, so interested women should reserve their spot early.
Source: Harley-Davidson, Inc.
via Car Buyer's Notebook
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June 21, 2007
Motorcycle Taxis as Rescue Vehicles
Business travellers stuck in traffic on their way to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport were in luck last week, as knights in shining leather were ready to zip them off to their flight on the back of a motorcycle.
Three yellow bikes covered the busiest roads near Amsterdam between 7 and 11 am, and were reachable via a designated phone number.
Each bike held a second driver, ready to take a stranded driver's car to Schiphol's Valet Parking, where it could be picked up after the trip. The bikes used can easily stow a piece of carry-on luggage and briefcase, and passengers were provided with a helmet.
Last week's motorcycle taxis were a try-out service by a new Dutch website for business travellers, Bizztrip. Bizztrip aims to be a no-nonsense travel portal for entrepreneurs who book their own travel. Whether flying first class or low-cost, customers are offered an array of extra services, including visa handling and travel to the airport.
Bizztrip is currently evaluating whether it will make motortaxi saviours one of its standard features. Seems like a smart move, though pricing would have to be fairly high to cover the cost of two drivers and the time they spend driving around seeking customers in need.
While Virgin Airlines offer Virgin LimoBikes in the UK, and private motorcycle taxis cater to travellers in other countries, the option to be rescued from a car stuck in a traffic jam seems new. One for airlines or limo companies to set up in other countries? Could also be a great service for motorcycle brands to sponsor.
Website: www.bizztrip.com
via: Springwise
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June 16, 2007
Michelin Announces Motorcycle Tire Recall
To date, no accidents or injuries reported
GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Michelin has notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Transport Canada that it is recalling Michelin Pilot Power 2CT and Pilot Power 120/70 ZR 17 (58W) front motorcycle tires with the "Made in France" markings in the United States and Canada.
This recall involves these specific tires only and has no impact on any other Michelin tires. Related actions are under way in other countries.
An examination of these tires showed a possible defect in the tread due to a manufacturing irregularity. No cases of pressure loss have been reported and no accidents have occurred.
Because rider safety is the primary concern, Michelin has decided as a precaution to replace the 120/70 ZR 17 (58W) Michelin Pilot Power 2CT and Michelin Pilot Power front tires, which can be identified by the following markings on the sidewall:
-- a "Made in France" label
-- DOT 6UCW 980T or DOT 6UCW 979T
Any consumer in the United States or Canada who believes they are affected by the recall should not wait to receive notification but should call Michelin Consumer Relations at 1 866 324 2835.
The company will be replacing all potentially affected tires in a comprehensive commitment to retrieve from the market any tire that does not meet Michelin quality standards. Replacement tires are available at no cost (including mounting and balancing) to consumers through participating Michelin(R) motorcycle tire servicing retailers.
About the DOT Code and Tire Identification Number
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) markings serve as the tire's fingerprint and signify compliance with U.S. Tire Safety Standards. The DOT code can be found on the sidewall right above the rim printed in small type less than half an inch tall.
Make sure your tire is of the make and model:
Michelin(R) Pilot(R) Power 2CT or Michelin(R) Pilot(R) Power 120/70 ZR 17 (58W)
Then, look for a DOT code 6UCW 980T or DOT 6UCW 979T on the sidewall.
If you are having difficulty identifying your tire's DOT code, please ask your local tire dealer to assist you or call Michelin Consumer Relations at 1 866 324 2835.
Source: Michelin
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June 14, 2007
Wealthy Folks Buying Scoots
More than 17,000 mopeds and motorcycles were registered in New Zealand last year - a 65 per cent jump on 2004 figures. Over that same period, the price of regular petrol rose 35 per cent and diesel prices went up 48 per cent. Auckland had more bikes registered than any other region last year (7565) followed by Canterbury (2773), Wellington (2113) and Waikato (1546).
Sales manager Miles Allpress, who works at Retro Scooter in Auckland, says the rise is partly due to a bigger range of cheaper brands, many from China.
Vespa shop owner Goetz Neugebauer says students used to push sales, but the typical customer is now a high-earning professional in their late 20s to mid-40s.
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Scooting around Vegas
LAS VEGAS – There's lazy, and then there's Las Vegas lazy.
In increasing numbers, Las Vegas tourists exhausted by the four miles of gluttony laid out before them are getting around on electric mobility scooters.
These aren't trendy Vespa motorbikes. They are more like updated wheelchairs.
Forking over about $40 a day, healthy tourists are cruising around Las Vegas casinos in transportation intended for the infirm.
You don't have to take a step. You don't even need to put down your drink.
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Italians Urged to Surrender Pre-2K VEspas
Owners of vintage Vespas, and all other scooters built before 2001, have been offered hundreds of euros worth of incentives to switch to bicycles or electric vehicles.
Italy's environment ministry, which has set aside £10 million for the project, will pay as much as £680 towards the cost of an electric scooter, or £170 towards a bicycle. Smaller incentives are on offer for the latest eco-friendly petrol scooters. Alfonso Pecoraro Scanio, the environment minister, said: "We are doing our best to combat carbon emissions and the fine dust that these scooters create. This will all help us live better."
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Drivers won’t be bored riding around town on the fuel-efficient, stylish and surprisingly powerful Vespa
YOU MAY HAVE SEEN them zipping around Atlanta lately. Too small to be a “real” motorcycle, too big to pedal. With gas prices on the rise, it seems scooters are everywhere these days. In recent years, there has been an explosion of models flooding the market, and it’s easy to make a mistake and settle for something that’ll get you from boring old Point A to boring old Point B. Luckily, the company that started it all way back in 1946 is still around. That company is Piaggio, makers of the one and only Vespa line of motor scooters.
Since the end of World War II, Vespas have been ridden the world over, bringing a touch of Italian class and style everywhere they go. Originally, the scooters were produced with a noisy, temperamental two-stroke engine mated to a manual transmission. The two-strokes were bad polluters, which led to the end of Vespas in the U.S. in the mid-1980s as well as the bankruptcy of Vespa’s U.S. importer.
Luckily, in the late 1990s, Piaggio executed a complete redesign of the iconic little bike. New features included a more powerful electrical system, a cleaner four-stroke engine, better brakes and above all, a fully automatic CVT belt-driven transmission—no more shifting.
The new Vespas took off in Europe but took a while to gain acceptance in our SUV-loving society. Early models were hard to come by and parts were even more so. Not so much these days. Vespa has a standard line of scooters with engine sizes ranging from the small-town grocery getter 50 cc LX to the highway cruising, 80 mph, 250 cc, fuel-injected GTS model. For the sake of the scooter novices out there, this review will focus on the mid-sized, mid-priced Vespa LX150.
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June 12, 2007
Piaggio Provides Transportation for New 'Transformers' Movie Collaboration
Major Marketing Campaign Planned with Fully Integrated Promotional Activities Tied to DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures Highly Anticipated Summer Movie
NEW YORK -- Piaggio Group Americas announced today an integrated partnership with the upcoming DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures release "Transformers" with a full slate of promotional and marketing initiatives nationwide including: a national dealer open house, free movie tickets, an advertising campaign and a sweepstakes awarding a Vespa scooter.
The "Transformers" movie partnership marks an expanded presence in the product integration space for Piaggio Group Americas. Scheduled for theatrical release July 3rd, "Transformers" is already generating buzz as a hot summer blockbuster.
As part of the fully integrated marketing strategy surrounding the "Transformers" partnership, Piaggio is hosting a variety of activities throughout the U.S. Tied directly with the launch of the movie, Piaggio is holding a special Vespa national open house June 14-24, 2007. During the open house, consumers who sign up to receive Vespa emails and bring their confirmation coupon to participating Vespa dealerships will receive a free movie ticket to see "Transformers" after they test drive a Vespa. Additionally, people visiting dealerships during the open house will receive a free official mini "Transformers" movie poster.
In addition, Piaggio is conducting a special online sweepstakes where one winner will be selected to win a Vespa scooter.
Piaggio has also developed advertising creative titled, "Vespa...Transportation Transformers(TM)," which will appear in motorcycle and scooter trade publications as well as part of a comprehensive Internet campaign. Participating Vespa dealerships will receive promotional materials which they can display and utilize in local ad campaigns.
"Piaggio is always looking for opportunities that highlight the great brands we represent," said Paolo Timoni, President and CEO, Piaggio Group Americas. "The 'Transformers' movie is sure to be one of the summer's biggest hits and we are thrilled to be integrating numerous marketing and promotional activities to support that involvement. We look forward to even more strategic partnership opportunities in the future."
For centuries, two races of robotic aliens - the Autobots(R) and the Decepticons(R) - have waged a war, with the fate of the universe at stake. When the battle comes to Earth, all that stands between the evil Decepticons(R) and ultimate power is a clue held by young Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf). An average teenager, Sam is consumed with everyday worries about school, friends, cars and girls. Unaware that he alone is mankind's last chance for survival, Sam and his friend Mikaela (Megan Fox) find themselves in a tug of war between the Autobots(R) and Decepticons.(R) With the world hanging in the balance, Sam comes to realize the true meaning behind the Witwicky family motto - "No sacrifice, No victory!"
For more information visit: www.VespaUSA.com or www.ApriliaUSA.com
Source: Piaggio Group Americas
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Auto Europe Offers New Scooter Hire Service in Italy and France
- So you can Enjoy the Freedom of the Vespa Lifestyle on Vacation
LONDON -- Leading car hire specialist Auto Europe (www.auto-europe.co.uk, 800-358-1245) is offering travellers to France and Italy the opportunity to rent a scooter for their holiday at selected destinations - and enjoy great savings.
Italian Vespa lifestyle for less
Auto Europe is offering a great new deal on Vespa LX 125 scooter hire in Rome, Venice, Milan and Florence. Take your lead from the Italians who have already got wise to travelling by scooter. Hiring a Vespa is the perfect way to get around if you want to have fun enjoying the sights and sunshine, without the stress of Italy's infamous traffic jams.
Scooter hire savings in France
Taking in the sights of Paris, Marseille, Nice and Cannes by scooter has never been easier or more affordable. Auto Europe has a new price offer on Yamaha YP 125 Majesty scooters for hire at these destinations. Remember - Paris may be notorious for traffic congestion but it only takes 25 minutes to cross the city in style by scooter.
Scooters enjoy great popularity on the European continent, where many cities are perfect for life on two wheels. How better to beat the traffic, squeeze into tiny parking spaces, save on petrol and see the sights than hiring a scooter?
For further details of this offer visit:
http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/showspecial.cfm?specid=527
This special promotion is currently available as a "call to book" service rather than an online booking service. To book a scooter at the select cities included in the offer, customers can call 800-358-1245.
About Auto Europe
Auto Europe has is committed to providing the best deals possible. Backed up by the Auto Europe 'Beat Rate Guarantee', it guarantees to beat any like-for-like quote so you can book with confidence. There are no cancellation or amendment fees and a 24/7 freephone number, 800-358-1245, connects directly to a real person who can deal with any enquiries. With more than 4,000 rental locations around the world, it's the ideal first stop for vehicle rental.
Source: Auto Europe
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June 6, 2007
Aprilia USA Introduces the SportCity 250
No "cute" for this scoot: sophisticated style, sport bike-caliber standard equipment make for a seriously fun riding experience
The 2007 Aprilia SportCity 250, the Italian manufacturer's newest addition to its U.S. model line, lays down the gauntlet when the topic turns to serious scooter fun. Unlike some of its category cousins, the SportCity isn't all playful curves and features fit only for quick jaunts. Instead, the sophisticated SportCity is packed with serious standard equipment, including a class-leading electronic fuel injected engine for fast acceleration, a rigid frame for sporty handling, superior wheel travel to absorb punishing potholes, large 15-inch wheels for a stable ride, triple disc brakes for rapid stops and double lights for superior visibility.
With design and technology inspired by Aprilia's award-winning sport bikes, this scooter is ready to confidently carve its way through metro traffic or eat up highway miles. As a result, the SportCity 250 is the ideal choice for anyone who wants the economic and environmental benefits of owning a scooter without sacrificing the thrill of sporty riding.
The Aprilia SportCity 250 has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $4,599.
Advanced Engine Technology Sets Benchmark in Scooter Category
Very few scooters offer the level of advanced technology found on the Aprilia SportCity 250.
The electronic fuel-injected four-stroke engine sips fuel, returning up to 61 miles for every gallon of gas while delivering strong acceleration off the line. With peak power of 22.5 hp at 8,000 rpm and 15 ft.-lb. of torque at 6,250 rpm, the Sporty City is ready to sprint away from the pack, accelerating from 0 to 50 mph in just 7 seconds and offering a top speed rating of 79 mph. The scooter also stops on a dime in seconds, thanks to a large triple brake system.
The scooter's performance potential is elegantly managed by an equally high-performance chassis, featuring a high-strength tubular steel frame with excellent torsional rigidity. A hydraulic telescopic front fork with generous 3.9" of wheel travel and rear double hydraulic shock with adjustable preload contributes to a superior ride on even the roughest roads. Large 15-inch wheels and high-profile tires provide a motorcycle-quality smooth ride.
Showcase for Aprilia's Premium Equipment Philosophy
Strong performance, engineering integrity and technical innovation are just a few of the SportCity's many unique character traits. Like all Aprilia scooters and motorcycles, the SportCity is big on standard equipment, premium components and top-quality materials, such as a high-tech non-slip seating surface. Built to comfortably accommodate two scooteristi, the SportCity also has generous cargo capacity, including a luggage rack with passenger grab handles and under-seat storage big enough to accommodate an extra helmet and personal items. An additional lockable storage compartment integrated behind the leg guard is equipped with a power outlet for phone recharges on-the-go.
Sport riding requires information, and Aprilia doesn't skimp on top-quality instrumentation. The SportCity features a multi-function analog/digital instrument panel, including a rev counter. Display functions, such as odometer resets, can easily be accessed via handlebar controls.
The 2007 Aprilia SportCity 250 is now available at U.S. Aprilia dealers.
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June 5, 2007
Solar Powered Scooter
Don Dunklee manages a Rite-Aid by day. By night, he's a DIY maverick who built his own solar-powered scooter that gets him too and from work without the hassle of gasoline. When he rides it, the solar panels are folded up unobtrusively on the side of the scooter. When he gets to work, he opens up the panels so they can soak up some rays. By the time he gets out of work, he's get enough juice to get him home again.
Sure, it probably doesn't hold enough to make it more than a day or two with cloudy weather, and he's sure to look like a dork tooling down the road on a yellow electric scooter, but kudos to Don for putting the time and energy into such a unique project. Even better? He made the plans available online on his website so anyone can build one too.
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Piaggio Carnaby Scooter Accessories
Piaggio has introduced a series of functional items specifically designed to enhance the comfort and practicality of its all-new 125cc Carnaby scooter without distracting from the distinctive styling of the large wheel scooter.
The High Windscreen provides substantial protection against wind and rain and will add to the ergonomics offered by the broad seat, effective flat platform and leg shields. It is manufactured from impact resistant and scratch-proof 4 mm-thick methacrylate, is type approved for the vehicle and is supplied with an elegant fitting system, priced at £79.99 inc. VAT.
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Scooters breeze by high Seattle gas prices
SEATTLE -- Not since Audrey Hepburn rode a scooter across the big screen in "Roman Holiday" has the motor scooter enjoyed such a spotlight.
High gas prices have sent news media to scooter dealers across the nation to report on increased sales as commuters look for a more fuel-efficient way of getting around.
Workers at Vespa Seattle – a dealer on Denny Way -- say this could be their most profitable season.
But Seattle motor scooter owners say there are more benefits to scootering than being able to smirk at SUV drivers at the gas pump. And Puget Sound has a burgeoning scooter community that's been thriving since the days when gas didn’t cost an arm and a leg.
"I think I used the excuse to my wife about gas mileage," said Vincent Rowley, a Queen Anne resident who owns several scooters. "But if they had three miles to the gallon, we'd probably still be riding them."
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More People Riding Scooters Around Town
With record-high gas prices and warmer weather, scooters are turning up in increasing numbers. There are more people on scooters than in years past; you see them on the roads, especially now that the weather's been warm and dry.
There are some serious advantages to taking a scooter around town. You can get up to 75 miles to the gallon.
Scooter owner Josh Barber says, "A lot of people laugh at you and make fun of you but you can laugh right back at them and say, 'I'm saving money and having a lot of fun at the same time.'"
Scooter owners right now are one happy bunch. It's fun, it's easy and they're not going broke at the pump.
Scooter owner Vince Morgan says, "They make them almost like motorcycles, but the ease of the automatic transmission. It's simpler than riding a bike, a bike you have to pedal. The scooter, it's the same type of balance situation but it goes on its own."
The best thing about these scooters is that they can go right along with traffic and they cost a whole lot less to fill up. Top speeds on the biggest scooters are over 80 MPH. Most people won't take them on the highway, but around town they can just about do anything when the roads aren't snow covered.
It's no wonder why Vespa sales at Barber Brothers in Orem are exceeding anything they've ever seen.
Barber Brothers President Chuck Barber says, "It seems like every time the gas prices hit three dollars a gallon, the doors fly open on the scooter shop. This year we're approximately 80 percent above last year in sales of scooters."
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Scooters Gain Popularity
Des Moines, IA -- With gas going for more than three dollars a gallon, more and more Iowans are adapting their lifestyles and bracing for a future of routinely high gas prices.
Last month, three neighbors on High Street in Des Moines decided to shrink the amount of gas they used by shrinking their rides.
They all purchased a Vespa Scooter. Vespas are made in Italy. Most models go 60 miles per hour and up. They don't require shifting and, more importantly, they don't require a lot of gas.
The models get anywhere from 60 to 80 miles per gallon.
Great American Outdoor in Ankeny started selling Vespas last year. After selling 27 in 2006 they've already sold 30 this year. The saleswoman tells Channel 13 the raise in sales is definitely a result of high gas prices.
"That is the first thing they discuss, how many miles to the gallon can they get," said Paula James.
Models cost anywhere from 35 hundred dollars to 7000 dollars. Drivers also need a motorcycle license.
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Vespa Scooter Sales Soar
Vespa Scooter Sales Soaring On High Gas Prices
BROOKFIELD -- When it comes to gas prices-- two wheels are better than four. A spokesperson for "Vespa Milwaukee" in Brookfield says scooter sales are up 25 percent.
You can't drive the smaller ones on the freeway or use them during the winter. But if you can look past those drawbacks it may be worth it.
Vespas can get close to 100 miles per gallon and they start at abot $3,500. "Vespa Milwaukee" SAYS about 60 percent of its customers are women.
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June 1, 2007
Governor Schwarzenegger takes electric scooter to Canada
TORONTO, Ontario – Governor Schwarzenegger, with a delegation of more than 50 California companies, spoke on Tuesday to an animated crowd of several hundred prominent Canadian business and political leaders to promote California clean technology innovations.
“We are thrilled that the Governor has invited us to participate in his trade mission and are overwhelmed by the response we are getting from Canadian government and business leaders”, said Mike Kasaba, CEO of RideVehicles.
“The time is right for all North American business and government fleet purchasers to take a look at their new clean-air options. They will see that zero emission vehicles, like the RIDE, not only meet their productivity needs, but also outperform conventional vehicles in fuel and maintenance cost savings.”
Like many U.S. municipalities, regional and local Canadian governments are actively pursuing clean technologies that can perform critical public services such as Law Enforcement.
The RIDE provides Law Enforcement Officers with a tactical advantage in heavily trafficked pedestrian zones such as festivals, protests, and other live events.
RideVehicles LLC is a California company designing and manufacturing zero emission vehicles. Its product, the “RIDE”, is targeted to Law Enforcement, Private Security Companies, Postal Services, Industrial/Commercial Businesses, and the Military.
For more information, see www.RideVehicles.com.
Posted by Frank at 9:04 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
RIDE Announces Its Law Enforcement Vehicle - The Blue-RIDE
RideVehicles, an electric vehicle company located in Southern California, has developed a sophisticated vehicle that will enable better policing in pedestrian areas.
The Blue-Ride was designed specifically for law enforcementand private security forces needing enhanced visibility and presence when policing events, campuses, traffic, and other areas heavily populated by pedestrians.
The vehicle which is all-electric, allows officers to perform their duties faster and with less fatigue than before. It has greater range, speed, cargo hauling, and is easier to use than other stand-up vehicles being marketed to Police.
RideVehicles has received an overwhelmingly positive response during field tests and demonstrations. Police from
all over the United States agree that the Blue-RIDE will help them achieve their complex and stressful missions during public rallies and demonstrations.
Moreover, the Blue-RIDE helps officers cover more ground and be more accessible to the public - a key metric for
success for all law enforcement agencies.
For more information, see www.RideVehicles.com.
Posted by Frank at 9:03 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
