LAMBRETTA RETURNS TO MOTO GP

"Lambretta has made a sensational return to the Moto GP Championship with the launch of LAMBRETTA REPARTO CORSE. The racing department of the legendary marque will be run from the workshops of the world famous Engines Engineering in Bologna, Italy.

"This move comes in the year when the first all new range of Lambretta Scooters since 1970 are set to go into production. It is also nearly sixty years since Lambretta last raced in the Moto GP Championship.

"The brand?s Marketing Director John Scully commented ?It?s is a wonderful day for Lambretta and one we?ve been working towards for nearly two years. We?re delighted to be back on the racetrack and to compete in such an exciting and expanding sport. It?ll be fun to compete with the big boys and see what happens.?

"John continued, ?We?re determined to do well and develop winning racing technology that can then be translated into our production machines that will again make Lambretta scooters the most innovative on the market.?

"Lambretta has a proud racing heritage and performance has always been at the heart of the brand. Indeed, the original Lambretta B 125cc Sport scooter was a common sight at early Italian national motorcycle competitions, and between 1950 and 1953 the innovative v-twin Lambretta 250 GP Racer competed in the then fledgling Moto GP world championship. Since then the brand had dominated scooter racing around the world well into the late 90?s.

"Lambretta Reparto Corse Sporting Director and Team Manager Nicola Casadei has already signed top Italian rider Marco Ravaioli. Nicola is set to announce the team?s second rider later this week saying ?Our riders are passionate about Lambretta and also share the dream of once again building it into being the top marque it was in the 60?s and 70?s.?

"Along with Lambretta Reparto Corse, Lambretta Scooters have also unveiled the company?s new marketing strapline `Lambretta, It?s an Italian Thing?. This features prominently on the new Moto GP machines and will be on all future brand communications.

"Bring on the Qatar Moto GP at Losail on April 11th..."

British Forces deal

The VFM Scooter Collective have dropped us a line to say that all UK armed service personnel, be it Royal Navy, Army or Air Force will no longer be required to pay to get in to any UK scooter events run by VFM on production of a valid Warrant Card or other Military ID as proof of service. VFM explain that this is more of a token of respect than a massive financial saving, but as they say, every penny counts. This offer will last for at least 2010, but may well be extended. And no Twinny, being in the Sea Cadets when you were at school doesn’t count!

Hesketh Vectrix

Hesketh Motorcycles Ltd (A division of Hesketh Motor Company Ltd) announced on 10 November 2009 that it has secured an exclusive deal with New Vectrix, which is continuing production of its emission electric bikes. The bikes will be sold in the UK under the brand name ‘Hesketh’ and will be called the Hesketh HZE-Vectrix, with two new models expected during the course of 2010. Confirmation of the continuation of the Vectrix brand sees the way clear for HMC to offer a new contract to the current network of dealers which will include some support for Vectrix bikes sold in the last two years. For further information on the new Hesketh scooters visit www.heskethmotorcycles.net

Get on... free rides for newbies

Get On is a campaign brought to you by the leading motorcycle manufacturers, dealers and other companies in the market. The aim is to support anyone in getting on two wheels by actively promoting the many positives of motorcycling, by introducing as many people as possible who have never ridden to a free riding experience, and by encouraging those who have left motorcycling to start again.

Yes you read that right, free.

So, if you're new to scooters and motorcycles, or maybe you know someone who is thinking of moving from the pillion seat to the rider’s saddle, the Get On campaign is designed to help you. Even without a licence, you can still have a free try out session on either a 125cc geared motorcycle or an automatic scooter to see how it feels to get on, and ride. The session will last about one hour and you can arrange it yourself via the Get On website at one of many rider training centres around the UK. The free offer also applies to those who have previously owned a bike or scooter and are considering getting back on to two wheels.

The Get On website also offers information on different brands of scooter, dealers, riding kit, breakdown and more. For further information visit www.geton.co.uk

‘Be Seen’ Motorcycle Initiative - Lincolnshire

The LRSP (Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership) is offering motorcycle and scooter uses a ‘free high-visibility rider’s kit’ in a bid to reduce the number of collisions involving this high risk group of road users.  Whilst bikers represent only 1% of vehicle usage on our roads, 21% are killed or seriously injured.  Smaller two wheeled motor vehicles are much more vulnerable and harder to see.  Motorcyclists need to be more conspicuous at this time, particularly with reduced day light and this equipment will help to address visibility issues.

We are offering 2000 kits on a ‘first come first served basis’ and this is open to all motorcyclists who reside in Lincolnshire.   The equipment can be collected from the LRSP at Witham House, Canwick Road, Lincoln and Fire and Rescue stations in Lincoln (South Park), Gainsborough, Louth, Skegness, Boston, Spalding and Grantham.

Andrew Trevithick, Casualty Reduction Officer said “Many needless collisions occur at this time of year when the other road user simply doesn’t see the motorcycle until it is too late, or looks and doesn’t see the biker at all.  We all need to be extra vigilant at junctions and look out for motorcycles, particularly at this time of year.  My message to all bikers is please ‘be seen’ and make sure you are visible to other road users”

February 2010's issue - Correct Publication Date

Sorry but in the January issue of Scootering we incorrectly announced that the February 2010 issue would be published on 21 January. The correct date however is 28 January 2010, with subscribers beginning to receive theirs around the 22 January. Sorry for any confusion this may have caused.

Controversial Chat Line Adverts Removed

Some of you may have noticed over the past couple of issues some adverts of a more ‘adult nature’ for certain telephone chatlines appearing in this publication. A fact of life I’m afraid is that ALL magazines need advertising to survive and this was one avenue that was explored for Scootering.
However I am happy to inform those readers that didn’t like such adverts appearing in a scooter magazine that I have been assured by one of the Mortons directors that such adverts have been stopped and will not appear again in Scootering. This will begin with the forthcoming January 2010/ issue 283 of Scootering Magazine (published in the UK on 24 December 2009).

And no, I didn’t like them either! - Andy

Pete Robinson – RIP

Just before this issue went to print we learned the sad news that Worcester based scooterist, engraver and Northern Soul collector Pete Robinson had passed away.

In the 1980s Pete created what for me and many others was one of the best custom scooters ever seen, a Lambretta Series 2 named Rhapsody & Blues. A rolling showcase for his engraving business it included a number of one-off parts as well as intricately engraved pieces.

A ridden machine, it was unfortunately written off in an accident, encouraging Pete to build a replacement, Rhapsody & Blues Reprise, using a Lambretta GP. By now Pete was well-established on the scene as an extremely talented engraver, his name appearing more and more regularly in the spec panels of custom scooters featured in both Scootering and Scooter Scene back in the day.

I’d met Pete a number of times over the years, the first being at a Glevum Stax Custom Show in the late 80s when I was talking to him about some engraving he’d done on the Vespa chop I’d entered. I also saw him engraving ‘live’ at a custom show in Doncaster where he was sat alongside his own Lambretta, skilfully working on various scooter parts during the show.

Later I had the opportunity to watch him work close up when Sticky and I visited him for a feature on his engraving skills for an article in Scootering back in 2000. Witnessing a talented artist like Pete working his magic is something you never forget. Others may know him from his local Marrs soul nights, or even impromptu DJ slots on the Isle of Wight campsite after hours. Maybe you’ve traded records with him, sometimes in exchange for engraving. There’s no denying though that in one way or another Pete contributed a lot to the modern scooter scene as we know it today and he will be sadly missed. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.

Andy

New Motorcycle Licence Proposals

“Proposals to improve skills and safety for new motorcycle riders, drivers of lorries and buses and new drivers who want to tow medium sized trailers were published on 11 November by the Department for Transport (DfT) in conjunction with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

“The measures are contained in a consultation on the implementation of new European requirements on driver testing, training, examination and licensing which come into force in 2013. Other motorists will not be affected.

“The main aspects of the new requirements are: Motorcyclists – The current two categories of motorbike will be replaced with three – A1 (up to 125cc), A2 (up to 35Kw) and A (above 35Kw) – and new rules introduced for riders of larger bikes. Riders wanting to progress to larger categories of motorbikes will have to take additional training or a further test and there will be a rise in the minimum age from 21 to 24 for those wishing to start riding larger bikes without previous experience.”

The consultation 'Driver Testing, Training, Examining And Licensing: Implementing New European Union Requirements' will close on 5 February 2010. The consultation can be found at www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/thirddirective

Malosssi V4 - Article amendment

In the report from the Milan Show in the January 2010 issue of Scootering we unfortunately got a little of the information about the new Malossi V4 parts incorrect. It was 'lost in translation' as they say. Anyway, VE-UK, the UK Malossi importers have dropped us a line to correct it.

"The 74mm Malossi kit for the 125/180/200 Piaggio leader motors takes the capacity to 210cc not 269cc as indicated in the text, the 269cc conversion is for the Piaggio Quasar 250cc motors. Although both the Leader 210 kit (Part No 3111473) and the Quasar 269 kit (Part No 3113928) use a 74mm bore size, the 74mm bore with the 48.6mm short stroke of the leader motor works out at 210cc, while the 74mm bore on the 60mm long stroke of the 250cc Quasar motor makes the capacity 269cc."

BSRA Scooterist of the Year 2010

To enter the individual categories of best male and best female all you need to do is email your name, address and postcode to championship@bsra-uk.com. If you are a club they will need your club name, how many entrants there are and a postcode.

 Best supporting male and female will receive a fabulous trophy to keep and one to return after a year. There will also be £250 cash prize each and up to £150 in free insurance each too, from Lexham Insurance who have been very generous. Both entrants will also receive a free subscription to Scootering Magazine and the Shed (thank you to you both).

Best supporting club will receive lots of prizes sponsored by Lexham. The club will receive a trophy to keep and one to return after a year.

Thank you to Lexham Insurance, Shed and Scootering Magazine

Rules & Conditions

All individual and club entries to be received by 31/03/2010. You will then receive a signing on card and a unique number.

Signing on will be on the Saturday at every BSRA rally at our very generous sponsor Lexham Insurance's stand. Anyone who misses this can find Rick or Ann from English Rose SC and we will stamp your card for you and register your miles but it must be on that Saturday at the rally, not days or weeks after.

 Mileage- the competition is purely on mileage and our way of ensuring that everything is above board will be by using AA autoroute or Google maps (TBC). We will have to check the mileage against your postcode as that is the fairest way of measuring distance.

 The best supporting club will be based on mileage and percentage. So if there are 10 registered in club and 8 travel you will have an 80% turnout. If there are 40 registered and 10 travel that is 40% turnout. So that means a small club has just as good a chance of winning!!

Trophies and prizes to be handed out at Bridlington 2010. All entries and enquiries to championship@bsra-uk.com 

'Scootering Investigates - Buying a resto from Overseas'

For Part 4 of our 'Investigates' article, we here at Scootering Magazine have purchased a 'restored' Lambretta from India. You read all about the trials and traumas of that in this month' Scootering, and to compliment that article here are some extra photographs that we didn't have space for on paper."
Go to Scootering investigates sample >>

Armadillo Scooterwear Video

Armadillo Scooterwear have just released this new video campaign titled 'Tough Enough'. Featuring a Vespa and stunt rider wearing Armadillo clothing, this action-packed viral was shot on the back streets of London. The creative team behind the project is the Amsterdam based Italian/ Spanish duo Ham & Kaas, the viral was produced by Stink Ltd, working together with the British Directing Team Darkfibre. Director of photography is Michael Bonvillain, famed for TV series Lost, Cloverfield and most recently Zombieland. The music is from a Canadian two-piece called Lullaby Arkestra, signed to Vice Records.

For more information about the film and Armadillo Scooterwear visit: www.armadilloscooterwear.com

Above The Clouds Scooter Raffle

You may remember that prior to the Isle of Wight Scooter Rally A Lambretta Golden Special with MB TS1 engine was being raffled by the Above the Clouds Scooter Collective in aid of charity. The draw was conducted at the IoW rally by Tony Class and Mark Harris from Portsmouth was the lucky winner. According to Mark: "I thought someone was pulling my leg when Tony rang to say I'd won. I was waiting for one of my mates to say, naahh, not really."

Jim from AtCSC states that next year they plan to have a Vespa raffle and would like to thank everyone that bought a ticket for the raffle and all those who have supported AtCSC in its first season, especially VFM, Solent Cougars, Shedsters, Modrapheniacs and of course Scootering magazine.

Scooterist of the year

A subject of hot discussion at the BSRA meeting was what to do with all the cars, caravans and even movie-star sized Winnebagos turning up at scooter rallies these days. In an attempt to encourage or even remind more people that scooters are the way to travel, a motion was proposed to revive one of the most prestigious awards from the 1980s/early 1990s scene; the Scooterist of the Year award. Based around the BSRA National Scooter Rallies of 2010 the idea is to offer a trophy and even prizes for farthest travelled male and female riders, as well as have a trophy for best supporting club too, all based on mileage ridden with awards being presented at the Bridlington Trade and Custom Show 2010.

Exact details are still being finalised but for now those interested in taking part are invited to register by emailing championship@bsra-uk.com before 15 March 2010. More details will follow soon.

Solar powered digital caliper!

Manufactured from hardened stainless steel with a large LCD display giving the option of imperial or metric measurement ranges 0-150mm (0-6in), this is a marginally more eco-friendly twist on the good old caliper courtesy of Laser Tools. It is powered by solar energy when the sun's rays measure over a certain level, which means the life of the battery in the Digital Caliper should increase. Other features include manual power on/off, zero setting in any position, internal, external and step measurements and locking screw.

It’s easy to use, even one handed when holding or balancing something with the other, and as someone whose not had the pleasure of a digital caliper until now, over the old ‘read the markings yourself’ calipers this is so straightforward.

Supplied in a plastic carrying case for storage, CE approved and ROHS compliant I can’t comment on how long the solar feature extends the battery for, but ask me again in a few years and I may have an answer! Anyway if Santa popped one of these in your stocking at Christmas you wouldn’t be disappointed. The typical retail price is around £48.15, for local stockists go to www.lasertools.co.uk

Andy

NEW LAMBRETTA - EXCLUSIVE PICTURES!

Sticky has just sent us some images of a new scooter he found on a Lambretta stand at the Milan Motorcycle & Scooter Show this week (10-15 November 2009).

Apparently it is still a prototype but this 'Pato' badged scooter could see production.

See the forthcoming December 2009 issue of Scootering for more images and the full story (published 25 November 2009).

MBD & SCK press release

“MB Developments UK Ltd and Scooter Center Koln Germany are pleased to announce that they have come to a mutual business partnership agreement.

“Both companies have worked closely together for many years now and this year MB Developments became sole UK distributors for Scooter Center Köln’s BGM Lambretta products. Building on the success of this partnership MB Developments have taken over sole distributorship of all SCK products in the UK for trade and retail, including Classic Vespa, Mini-Maxi autos and Classic autos. In return SCK have taken over distributor rights of MBD products in Germany. Both companies are proud of their quality products and service and aim to increase their websites for the future.” www.mbdevelopments.co.uk and www.scooter-center.com.

Strangetown Helping Heroes

Pictured here are Strangetown SC presenting a cheque for £306 they raised for Help For Heroes charity. The money was raised from the raffle they had at their rally in July of this year and they would like to thank everyone who helped towards this total.

Nurburgring records

Congratulations to the scooterists pictured below who recently went out to Germany’s Nurburgring for a few ‘friendly’ laps of the famous circuit. An event that attracted riders and racers from Germany, Austria and elsewhere in Europe, they not only had a great time but broke the lap record for a scooter too!

The old record, set by Marco Buttner on a Group 6 Lambretta, was 3min 02sec. BSSO Champion Charley Edmonds smashed that on his Group 4 205cc Mugello powered Lambretta with a time of 2.45.2.

Tony O'Brien on his Group 5 152cc Falc powered Vespa 90SS was the next best of the bunch with 2.47.5 (and a top speed reckoned around 105mph!). Also part of this little ‘Team GB’ were James Campen (2.49.1 on Group 4 Mugello), Phil Bevis (2.54.3 on Group 4 Mugello), Pete from Camlam (3.25 on a road-going Lambretta), Trev from Camlam (3.27.7 on a road-going Lambretta) and Marcus Wimmer (an Austrian living in Northampton, 3.30.3 on self road-tuned Vespa ET3).

The only local under three minutes was Lutz Hoppner with a 2.56 on a Group 6 Lambretta.

Congratulations from everyone at Scootering. The next meeting at the Nurburgring is in May I think, where the stakes have undoubtedly been raised (photo by Scott Chapman).

Potholes

Anyone else noticed that potholes seem to be on the increase lately? Whether they’re breeding beyond control or councils simply don’t have the budget to repair them, I’m not sure. The AA however want something done about it as feedback from their driving school instructors across the UK reveals that many are changing lesson routes and teaching specific driving techniques to deal with crumbling roads.

AA President Edmund King says: “The fabric of our local roads is a major cause for concern, with surfaces crumbling and drivers at risk of damage to their vehicles and even themselves. Ultimately we all pay more through patching and mending, and then paying out compensation rather than fixing the underlying poor condition of many of our roads.

The AA is also asking drivers and riders to help identify Britain's worst potholes by taking part in the online discussion at www.theaa.com/zone.

Our advice is to look ahead and leave enough space between you and the car in front so you can see the quality of the road surface and plan accordingly for any potential hazards. While highways authorities cannot be held responsible for all their roads 24/7, if they fail to act when a pothole (or other highway defect) is reported they may be held liable. So if you see a dangerous pothole, especially if directly in line with the path of your scooter or the road, then report it. Then get a friend to report it too a short while later, then the council or highways agency are more likely to act upon it.

MAG Press Release – The New Bike Test

The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has persuaded the Transport Select Committee to launch an enquiry into the fiasco over the introduction of the new motorcycle test. MAG is now gathering test cases to provide the enquiry with. MAG are interested to hear from:

• Test candidates who’ve been injured while taking the new test
• Test candidates who’ve been failed for not going fast enough
• Training schools that have gone bankrupt in the wake of the new test
• Candidates who do not live within a 40 minute ride of a test centre

MAG invite information via the MAG Central Office on 01788 570065

Stolen Scooters - Reward Offered

Reward offered for information leading to the recovery of Lambretta 1967 SX150/225 & Vespa 1985 P200E/230:

Mortons motorcycle division steps up a gear with Group Editor

Mortons Media Group, publishers of Scootering, have appointed Steve Rose as Group Editor of their  motorcycling magazines. Steve, who leaves the editorship of Bike to take up this exciting new appointment, comes with a wealth of experience, having previously edited Ride and Parker’s Car Guide as well as spells on Performance Bike and Classic Bike.

Mortons Managing Director Brian Hill commented, ‘We are delighted to have Steve on board to bring not only his magazine crafting skills, but also his true biking enthusiasm to our wide portfolio which covers virtually every aspect of two wheeled transport.’

Mortons, the independent publishers based in Horncastle, Lincolnshire, publishes fourteen motorcycling magazines, and their on-line counterparts, including the market leading Old Bike Mart, Classic Bike Guide, Scootering and the free distribution newspaper, Motor Cycle Monthly.

Part exchange helmets

In the market for a new crash helmet? Most manufacturers recommend replacing motorcycle helmets every two to four years, even if apparently undamaged, as their protective qualities may deteriorate with time and wear.

Infinity Motorcycles have introduced a scheme to encourage motorcyclists to upgrade their old helmets by offering up to £100 off the new price of a helmet bought in any of their showrooms or from their mail order department. Infinity stock a wide selection of leading brand helmets such as Arai, HJC, Nolan, Schuberth and Shoei and customers can part exchange their current helmet, no matter how old and tatty, and get money off any new helmet retailing for over £200.

Part exchange values start at £50 against helmets over £200
rising to £60 for those over £300, £80 off helmets selling for more than £400 and the maximum discount is £100 off helmets retailing for over £500. Infinity have eight stores across the UK and you
can find out more by calling 01904 675600 or at www.infinitymotorcycles.com

The 2nd Max Speed Festival

Who has the fastest scooter in Europe? Scooter Center Koln present the second Max Speed Festival on 26 September 2009 which is a scooter sprint over 500m. It will take place at the Meinerzhagen airfield (about 60km south of Dortmund) in Germany and they will use professional timing equipment to measure your sprint. There will also be a small circuit on the site for testing and SCK will have their Dynojet at the airfield.
The minimum age for entrants is 16 years old and you must wear full face-helmet, gloves, sturdy shoes, long trousers and a jacket.
The scooters do not have to be road legal but they must be safe and will be checked beforehand. There are various classes to enter for both geared and automatic scooters and more information in both English and German can be found at www.maxspeedfestival.de

LML Scooters

Latest rumours regarding the production of 4-stroke geared scooters by LML in India are that a 125cc, 150cc and 200cc version are planned for the Vespa clone chassis, utilising a new rear subframe to cradle the motor. This new range is expected to be launched later this year, although internet users can take a look at a prototype version of the American branded Genuine Stella version by going to www.scootering.com and following the link in the ‘news’ section to the 2-stroke Buzz website. Unconfirmed reports suggest that LML may have already launched a version of the 4-stroke Star NV model in selected areas of India, but they are just that – unconfirmed.

Meanwhile, it seems LML Italy are keen to extend their portfolio and supply the UK with their brightly finished Star scooters that we saw at the Milan Show back in November 2008 (see Scootering December 2008) and have set up a company here named LML UK to do so.

In response AK International, who have been bringing LML’s into the UK since 1996 and who recently launched the Via Toscano range, told us, “AK International will continue to carry large stocks of LML Via Toscana scooters” and that they shall, “continue to support our dealers in every way to maintain the supply and back up.” As far as they are concerned they say, “…our agreement with LML India is still in place.”

We’ll keep you updated as and when we know more.

BSRA Dates 2009

28-31 August – Isle of Wight
25-28 September – Woolacombe
30-31 October – Bridlington Trade & Custom Show
For more information about the British Scooter Riders Association visit
www.bsra-uk.com

BSSO Dates 2009

1-2 August – Lydden Hill, Kent
30-31 August – Anglesey, North Wales (Coastal)
19-20 September – Anglesey, North Wales (Grand Prix)
26-27 September – Cadwell Park, Lincs (Full)

For more information about the British Scooter Sport Organisation and scooter racing visit www.scooterracing.org.uk

LML 4-stroke geared Scooter

The Indian made Vespa clones by LML are branded as Stella scooters by the Genuine Scooter Company in the USA, and it seems they've got hold of a prototype version of the forthcoming 4-stroke model. American online scooter news site 2 Stroke Buzz have some pictures here of the 4-stroke geared scooter. http://2strokebuzz.com/2009/05/the-new-stella-unveiled

Riders protest at new test fiasco

A MAG (Motorcycle Action Group) press release received recently states:
Bikers from all over Britain took part in national protests against recent changes to the motorcycle test over the weekend of 9-10 May. Five hundred riders supported Yorkshire MAG's protest on Saturday at the fiasco which the new motorcycle test represents. The riders gathered at Squires Cafe in Sherburn in Elmet for a police-escorted ride through the centre of Leeds, returning to the cafe for lunch and speeches.

Two hundred riders gathered in Dundee and drove across the Tay Bridge to show their resentment over the test, which was introduced at the end of April.
MAG president Ian Mutch was interviewed in Leeds by the BBC's Look North programme. Speaking of the new test, Mutch emphasised that road safety was mostly about sensible attitudes and hazard recognition, 'performing circus acts to meet the agendas of road safety boffins was of questionable merit.'

Shortly before the introduction of the new test MAG organised a last minute Westminster debate with the intention of gaining a further delay to provide further opportunity for more test centres to come on line.

Despite the efforts of MAG member and Lib Dem MP Lembit Opik and Welsh MP
Mark Williams the test was introduced at the end of April.

There have been a number of crashes during wet weather on purpose built Tarmac test areas. The braking test is meant to be run in dry or wet weather, bikes take longer to stop on wet roads but the test demands they stop in the same space, wet or dry.

Only 50 of the new off-road test areas were operational on the first day of the test, compared to more than 230 motorcycle test centres previously.

Large parts of Britain have no local test centre; parts of rural England, Scotland and much of Wales are so badly served that riders have to travel more than an hour to reach a test site, prompting fears that younger learners may be discouraged from training to take the test at all.

MAG General Secretary Nich Brown said: "We have been meeting the DSA every month to try and resolve the problems. They claim their hands are tied but we believe that riders are paying the price for what amounts to little more than an inept property development strategy that has gone horribly wrong."

Local MAG groups around the country are currently working with local authorities in an effort to identify further test centre locations, property prices and difficulty getting local planning permission are blamed for the lack of test sites. But according to Nich Brown: "We were told there would be nearly 100 sites originally, DSA scaled back their service but have doubled their prices – it's scandalous and is shaping-up to be a long-term disaster for biking and road safety."
For more information visit www.mag-uk.org

Classic Scooter Racing in the Netherlands

A Race Demo rather than flat out racing means the Lambretta Club Netherlands have been able to circumnavigate red tape and offer track time for scooterists for four years now. From 2008, they started organising the demo in cooperation with a Dutch classic racing society and an obligatory track insurance for the riders was introduced. In 2009 they are going to use a different circuit located near Rotterdam airport, which is cheaper, meaning they’ve managed to reduce the cost for the 2009 edition to €30 for 2 days of riding on the track. It is possible to camp on the site Friday and Saturday evening (camping is free of charge) and the obligatory track insurance costs € 20 per day, so the total cost for the participants will be € 50 for one day, and € 70 for 2 days on the track. Want to participate?

Please register before 1 August 2009 and registration forms can be obtained by email secretaris@lambrettaclub.nl and will be made available for download on their website www.lambrettaclub.nl

Isle of Elba Review

Unfortunately, due to margins between the design and printing process, some readers may find it difficult to read the Isle of Elba review in this month's Scootering. All we can do is apologise, assure you that the proof looked ok on paper and publish the review here on the website.

To read the full review >>

Four-stroke LML scooters

Pictures are emerging on the internet of the four-stroke LML scooters we told you about back at the beginning of 2008 following Eddy Bullet’s visit to the factory in India. Still looking like the old Vespa PX and with a four-speed manual gearbox LML appear to have developed an engine using some original Vespa type parts (such as the gear selector) and if latest images are to be believed, fitted it into the monocoque frame using a tubular subframe.

Eddy Bullet tells us that the good news for lovers of two-strokes is that the current engine still meets regulations and so we are unlikely to see the new four-stroke motor until late 2010. That said, with any luck we’ll be bringing you a closer look at the new four-stroke motor in the very near future…

BGM USA

Spreading their wings further and out of Europe, Jet 200 Performance is now the official distributor of BGM products for Lambretta, Vespa and automatic scooters throughout North America.

Interested parties are invited to contact Jet 200 for more information regarding this German performance brand via www.jet200.com

BGM in the UK

MB Developments are pleased to announce that they are now sole licensed distributors for all Lambretta BGM products designed and manufactured by Scooter Center Koln.

BGM products include 80 and 120 watt electronic stator plates, fully adjustable rear shock absorbers, liquid cooled water pumps and some GP full circle race crankshafts, among others. Future products apparently include front adjustable shock absorbers and electronic flywheels.

These BGM products are available directly through MB Developments and www.lambrettaspares.com or from their new dedicated BGM website www.bgm.lambrettaspares.com or from any Lambretta dealer within the UK supplied by MBD. MB Developments are pleased to announce that they are now sole licensed distributors for all Lambretta BGM products designed and manufactured by Scooter Center Koln.

BGM products include 80 and 120 watt electronic stator plates, fully adjustable rear shock absorbers, liquid cooled water pumps and some GP full circle race crankshafts, among others. Future products apparently include front adjustable shock absorbers and electronic flywheels.

These BGM products are available directly through MB Developments and www.lambrettaspares.com or from their new dedicated BGM website www.bgm.lambrettaspares.com or from any Lambretta dealer within the UK supplied by MBD.

Daytime running lights

The European Commission (EC) has announced that dedicated Daytime Running Lights (DRL) will be introduced on all new cars from the year 2011 onwards. The following is a press release from FEMA (Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations).

“FEMA's position on the issue is very clear: FEMA is in principle not opposed to dedicated DRL as long as it is strictly different from a motorcycle dipped-beam headlight.

“The adoption of dedicated DRL appears to be the ‘least worse’ solution in terms of road safety, even though European motorcyclists – along with pedestrians and cyclists – still have reservations regarding the fact that responsibility to watch out for other road users is further taken away from the car driver.

“All in all, FEMA is satisfied that the European Commission adopted the ‘precautionary principle’ regarding the use of automatic switch – which has not been made mandatory – as it previously did by not harmonising the use of dipped-beam headlights.

“FEMA is pleased by the fact that the European Commission took the point of view of motorcyclists into account.”

www.fema.ridersrights.org

March edition's 'electrics article'

Shortly after last month’s article was published we received an email from a diligent reader, Kev Pettitt, pointing out that the wiring diagram for the 3-wire loom was in fact incorrect.
On it the idiot light should be in parallel, not series. I blame it on a late night, lack of attention and my original diagram getting changed by the person I asked to tidy it up, and then I for whatever reason decided to work from that and not my usual loom. Idiot lights are now going to be stuck in my brain as appropriately named.

Apologies to anyone I may have confused with this. The switch component of the 3-wire loom has been corrected and an updated diagram appeared on the Scootering website soon after and is repeated here.

Nik.

Lambretta smallblock engine dyno shoot out

Last weekend Scootering organised a dyno shoot out featuring smallblock Lambretta engines and various tuning kits available.

The day was a great success with offerings such as the Casa 185 kit, GT kits, Suzuki 185 conversion, Imola and the new RB20 being amongst those represented. Needless to say the ONLY place you'll find ALL the specifications,video clip of a couple of the scooters warming up before the dyno shoot out!

Retro scooter – but what is it?

More images doing the rounds on the internet at the moment are these of an alleged new scooter to be produced in China or Taiwan for the USA market. Obviously based on the Vespa (a VBB model), even down to the single sided forks and front hub, we at Scootering tracked down Hammerhead (www.hammerheadoffroad.com), the American company behind this prototype who also sell auto scooters and quads manufactured in Asia.

Paul Burnett dropped us a line to confirm that these images are of a pre-production sample of a scooter they’re calling the Venti, and that he only sees minor changes being made on the hardware side. It is a tubular frame with a plastic ABS body and the first planned models will have a 150cc fuel injected auto four-stroke engine, “made by a manufacturer we have used for years in our go-kart line-up and has held up very well.”

The scooter has disc brakes front and rear 3.50 x 10 tyres on cast aluminum wheels that are not interchangeable between the front and rear. Paul tells us: “The suspension surprised me regarding the ride, I’m 422 kilos. The handling feels like my P series with its steeper steering rake. The seat height is similar, as this is not a typical Pacific Basin product, so it will fit the taller riders fine.”

And that’s pretty much it. Paul has promised us more information when he gets it. Until then the Venti will be shown to the public at the Indianapolis Motorcycle Expo at the end of February.

So readers, is this the scooter we’ve all been waiting for Piaggio to replace the Vespa PX with? Is retro the way forward? Is the Venti simply a Vespa copy with no identity of its own? Let us know your thoughts.

Protest Against Increase in Motorcycle Tax

Government taxes greener bikes

For those who've not yet heard, the chancellor has plans to double road tax
for bikes in 2009, making it more expensive to tax a viable green alternative than for some cars.
Changes to the law mean cars emitting less than 100g of CO2 per kilometre
travelled would be exempt from paying Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax), while
motorcycles are still required to pay. Even more pollutring but low
emission cars will cost less to tax than a motorcycle, for a example a 1.6
diesel Peugeot 207 cost £35 to renew last year.
This was outlined by your Chancellor Alistair Darling in his first budget
of 2008, under the auspices of rewarding motorists for driving 'green'
vehicles. But despite this public boast, the rate of road tax paid by
motorcyclists is set to double in 2009, with the annual charge for a
typical 125cc commuter bike set to grow from £15 per year at present, to
£33.

Now I'm not a politician or a trained environmentalist, but I do know that
motorcycles and scooters tend to emit less CO2 and use less fuel than cars
(the average CO2 output from motorcycles is 110g/km apparently), and of
course us two-wheelers don't tend to sit stationary in traffic jams with
our engines running.
So why do those who ride greener two wheeled vehicles, use less road space
and do not contribute to congestion get penalised?
An online petition to Number 10 has been organised and runs until 11 April
2009 so there's a good starting point.

Why not get your local MP to raise the issue in the House of Commons as
well? After all, that's what MPs are elected and paid to do.
And if you're sitting at home thinking to yourself, 'I ride an old scooter
that's tax fre', well yes maybe it is, at the moment, but what if one day
you want to get a newer (post 1973) scooter for any reason?

http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/motorcycle-tax/#detail

Lambretta Innovation Certificates of Originality

Due to production figures nearing the magic 100 mark, Lambretta Innovation are requesting that all owners of any frame or auto or motorcycle-engined scooter built by them get in touch so that they can fill in the gaps in their production records and an official owners database can be established. Once the database is established, certificates will be issued to all owners that will give each scooter an individual production number relative to its date of manufacture. Once the 100 produced milestone is attained and documented recognition by the ACU can be granted so that Lambretta Innovation scooters can be recognised as a British made product in their own right.

Information can be passed on by owners by contacting Frank either by telephone at the workshop on 01772 721714 or by email either through the website www.lambrettainnovation.co.uk or directly at lambrettainnovation@yahoo.co.uk 

Protest against motorcycle parking fees

The campaign is gathering momentum and the word is being spread; scooters and motorbikes don't cause congestion, they're part of the solution. Charging for parking in Westminster is another tax that should be opposed and riders in London are doing just that.

A series of protests have and are still being organised in the capital on various dates and others from around the UK are encouraged to lend support because the feeling is that if Westminster Council continue to charge to park in bays then surely others will follow. For more info, leaflets, petitions and forums visit www.notobikeparkingfees.com

Bike access to bus lanes

The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) is delighted by London Mayor Boris Johnson’s announcement that motorcycles are to be allowed to use bus lanes.

“This is great news after years of campaigning on this issue by MAG,” said MAG president and London resident Ian Mutch. He added. “I appreciate that some cycle bodies are concerned by this move but as a cyclist myself I am convinced that there will be no problem. It is far easier for a motorcyclist to give a cyclist room than it is for a taxi driver for example and when all bus lanes are open to motorcycles the situation will be clearer for everyone.”

Rare accessories unearthed

Italian based restoration specialists, Rimini Lambretta Centre, have recently cleared out not one, but two old dealers. The lion's share of the material they've uncovered is dozens of original chrome accessories, something they are specialised in as their website testifies. They've let us know that among others, they have forkboot covers, horncover embellishers, sidepanel flashes and trims, comet flashes, shell embellishers and central in line wheel carriers... the list is endless! If original chrome accessories are your bag, then have a look at their website www.riminilambrettacentre.com or give them a call on 0039 0541 947492.

Victims of Theft & Fraud

A new website has been launched for owners of motorcycles and scooters who are unlucky enough to have found themselves victims of theft and/or fraud.

www.motorbikecrime.com was created by the insurance industrys claims expert Phil Swift and Dr Ken German, the motor cycle industrys bike theft specialist as a what can we do now? helpline for the motorcycle and scooter owner.

The new helpline is aimed at owners who have had their machines stolen or taken by means of fraud. It also gives help and advice to those who have purchased motorcycles and scooters that are already on finance, as well as those declared as a Total loss.

Owners who have found their wheels have been clocked or cant understand why their insurance company is not paying out for their theft claim will also find the site useful. Stolen registration documents (V5s) are also listed should any worried owner think they may have been given one with their recently acquired machine.

The end of the Vespa PX

As regular Scootering readers will know, we announced the demise of the Vespa PX range due to EU regulations on emissions back in 2007 and confirmed that the last PXs were produced in Italy during the Autumn of 2007 (MSC purchased as many as they could).
The BBC recently contacted me (Andy) as Scootering's editor, asking for a comment about this, the journalist himself owning a PX Vespa. That was just before the IoW rally in August. Over the Bank Holiday weekend, bored hacks from the UK's finest (or worst!) tabloids found this story, 'borrowed' part of what I told the BBC and rewrote the story using blatant inaccuracies suggesting that Sting rode a PX in Quadrophenia and that the EU banned the PX because it had gears and that automatic scooters are only to be made from now on.

I'd like to state now that Scootering has NOT spoken to the 'red tops' (IE Sun, Mirror, Star, Daily Record, Telegraph, UK News, Northampton Chronicle, Thaindian News, South Asian News, Motozine (Russia), Amongst others!!!) regarding these articles and has never heard of those people credited with writing the fiction that millions of gullible Brits presumably absorb and believe on a daily basis. Since the BBC interview The Independent have been in touch for a comment, which we've given. As have numerous radio stations but they usually email us at 8am asking for an interview within half an hour so they can take a running jump!
Andy

Ltd Edition Vespa

There are apparently only 200 of these Vespa Zafferano scooters being produced – they’ll be numbered as well by all accounts – and you can choose between either a 125cc (£2799) or 50cc (£2099) version of these uniquely coloured scooters. Based on the funky Vespa S, the panel stripes are also part of the package. Visit www.vespa.com or your local dealer for info.

Greenpeace electric

Greenpeace has taken a big step in reducing its own carbon footprint by purchasing a Vectrix electric maxi scooter. It will be based at their Central London offices and will be used to transport Greenpeace personnel and equipment to and from the Thames where their fleet of boats are based and also to run film and stills during ‘GP events’ in the capital.

Frank Hewetson, Actions Coordinator, Greenpeace, said. “The Vectrix is perfect for quick trips around Central London and for picking up tools and equipment too large for a pushbike but not big enough to justify using a car.”

Rather than plug into the National Grid, Greenpeace will power the Vectrix from 50 PhotoVoltaic solar panels on the roof of their building, which require just daylight, not direct sunlight to produce electricity. www.vectrix.co.uk

Bikes in bus lanes

A recent press release from the British Motorcyclists Federation (BMF) says it welcomes “the confirmation by London’s new mayor, Boris Johnson that he plans to allow motorcycles and scooters into London’s bus lanes”.

Apparently during the monthly Mayor’s Question Time Brian Coleman, London Assembly Member for Barnet and Camden, asked whether the mayor would ensure that motorcycles are allowed to use bus lanes. The BMF state that: “Boris Johnson confirmed that TfL (Transport or London) are happy to go ahead with this, and mentioned that previous studies in two London boroughs, as well as the experience of cities such as Bristol, showed that there were no ill-effects and that it would lead to no increase in road danger. The mayor hoped that the move would encourage modal shift.”

Brian Coleman responded: “Boris Johnson has read the evidence and made a decision based on fact rather than irrational prejudice. Although there are certain technical requirements that Transport for London must meet before the mayor rubber stamps this change, it is good news for all road-users that the wheels are in motion.”

For more info visit www.bmf.com

The world’s first Vision Zero motorcycle road

There now follows a press release from FEMA, the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations, who campaign on behalf of us, the riders, for our rights in Europe and they have some good news too…

“The motorcycle community has for a long time expressed serious concerns regarding the Vision Zero, the strategy in which road authorities have envisioned how to achieve zero deaths and zero serious injuries on the roads. The concerns are due to the vision depending primarily on bans and regulations instead of adaptation of the road environment to suit all road users – motorcyclists included.

“But even if motorcycles have been viewed upon as high-risk road vehicles with regard to accidents, they have been all but excluded from the Vision Zero document. The Vision Zero document has first and foremost given anti-motorcycle campaigners an opening to propose a ban on motorcycles as these, they claim, are not compatible with a Vision Zero. But today, with the opening of this motorcycle friendly road, these claims have been effectively quashed, the FEMA President Hans Petter Strifeldt stated.

“The Vision Zero Motorcycle Road is the brainchild of two passionate engineers at the regional Road Authorities, Jan Petter Lyng and Bjørn R Kirste, who have successfully designed the road exactly as the motorcyclists themselves recommend. It is not much that is needed to make a motorcycle friendly road with regard to preventing injuries in case of accidents: Crash barriers fitted with a sub-rail, forgiving side terrain, well thought out placing of signposts, cutting down sight-hindering vegetation – all in all small modifications and investments that are beneficial for all road users, including bicycles and cars. The price tag for modifying these 15 kilometres of road is estimated to be €630,000.

“The importance of this stretch of road in the middle of Norway cannot be overrated. It is the first Vision Zero motorcycle road, not only in Norway, not only in Europe, but in the world. As the representative for Europe’s road riding motorcyclists, FEMA will do what it can to promote this road to other nations’ road authorities as an example of what is possible to achieve with relatively small means, FEMA President Hans Petter Strifeldt concluded.”

www.fema.ridersrights.org

Warning - Lambretta front hubs!

We have been contacted by Lambretta Lee who has recently had a nasty incident with the front (drum brake) hub on his Lambretta Series 1, in that it broke whilst riding it. We have given this matter a brief mention in the June issue of Scootering (he contacted us at the last minute), but we would like to refer you to comments from himself and others on the LCGB internet forum where it seems that others too have suffered from similar hub failures.
After the Series 1 and Series 2, Innocenti modified the design of the front drum brake hubs for Series 3 models and beyond, possibly due to the weakness (around the locator, it has improved strengthening on later hubs) and the advice for anyone riding a Series 1 or 2 Lambretta scooter today is that they should use a Series 3 front hub.

Visit http://www.forums.ilambretta.com for more details and images of the hubs, both good and bad.

Figure It Out

March heralded the release of two-wheeled sales figures for both the UK and Italian markets during 2007, some of which we thought you might find interesting.

All powered two-wheelers (UK)
1: Yamaha YBR 125 – 2272
2: Honda SCV 100 Lead – 2201
3: Suzuki GSXR 100 – 2196
4: Yamaha YZF R1 – 2106
5: Yamaha YZF R6 – 1984

Scooters over 50cc (UK)
1: Honda SCV 100 Lead – 2201
2: Vespa PX125 – 1041
3: Vespa LX 125 – 822
4: Yamaha Cygnus 125 – 733
5: Honda PES 125 – 677

Mopeds (UK)
Baotian BT49 – 1397
Piaggio Zip 50 – 1207
Peugeot Speedfight 50 – 1132
Piaggio NRG 50 – 1109
Vespa LX50 – 914

Scooters 126-350cc (UK)
1: Vespa GTS 250 – 541
2: Honda SH300 – 354
3: Piaggio MP3 250 – 247
4: Yamaha XMax 250 – 115
5: Aprilia Sport City – 96

Total sales 2007 (UK)
Scooters – 43,812 (inc 21,643 mopeds)
Motorcycles – 100,771 (inc 2919 mopeds)

And if you like to quote percentages, then UK scooter sales (over 50cc) for 2007 are up 16.1 per cent on 2006, with scooter sales as a whole up 9.1 per cent, motorcycles as a whole up 8.5 per cent, and the market as a whole up 8.6 per cent year on year.

Scooters over 50cc (Italy)
1: Honda SH150 – 21,856
2: Honda SH300 – 18,650
3: Honda SH125 – 16,035
4: Yamaha Xmax 250 – 11,454
5: Yamaha TMax 500 – 10,537
6: Piaggio Beverly 250 – 10,160
7: Suzuki Burgman 400 – 9356
8: Yamaha XCity 250 – 8198
9: Piaggio Liberty 125 – 7382
10: Kymco People S200 – 6446
11: Yamaha Majesty 400 – 6025
12: Vespa LX125 – 5923
13: Vespa GTS250 – 5481
14: Honda Silverwing 400 – 5176
15: Piaggio Beverly 500 – 4655
16: Kymco People S125 – 4625
17: Suzuki Burgman 200 – 4129
18: Aprilia Scarabeo 150 – 3870
19: Vespa PX150 – 3547
20: Kymco Dink Classic 200 – 3404
21: Aprilia Sport City – 3326

In the overall charts in Italy (over 50cc), the first motorbike to appear is the Honda Hornet at number eight with sales of 8974, as one of only nine motorbikes in all featuring in the Italian Top 30.
Total two-wheeler sales (over 50cc) in Italy for 2007 were 431,035. These are split into 278,751 scooters and 152,284 motorcycles, which are 1.69 per cent and 3.29 per cent respectively down on last year’s sales, the market combined down 2.26 per cent year on year.

With regard to scooter sales in particular, Honda boast 68,537 sales in 2007 with Piaggio (not including Gilera, Derbi or Aprilia) close behind with sales of 65,437.

Oh, and for those who don’t know (but still care!), the best selling scooters of the manufacturers in the Italian hit parade such as the Honda SH, Piaggio Beverly and Liberty, Kymco People and Aprilia Scarabeo are all ‘big-wheeled’ scooters – what we’d probably refer to unkindly in the UK as ‘pizza delivery bikes’. Different horses for different courses…

SCOOTER DEALERS BEWARE – CREDIT CARD SCAM IN OPERATION

We’ve been contacted by scooter dealers regarding attempted scams on their businesses, suggesting that that there are currently thieves targeting the scooter scene.
It starts with a man telephoning the dealer and ordering parts, spares, accessories, gifts or memorabilia. This order so far has been up to the sum of £200.

He then passes the phone over to his girlfriend or wife, as she will be paying the bill with ‘her’ credit or debit card. This card will eventually prove to be either stolen or cloned.

She gives you the card details, possibly including a home address (which will match that of the card holder) then ask that the goods be delivered to either a separate private address (one so far was in Southall, Middlesex) or even a hotel (which it turned out they had also scammed with a dodgy card)!

She may even ask that the goods be sent by next day delivery, even to arrive before midday, because her husband/ boyfriend is going away, possibly on business.

We therefore advise all dealers and businesses to be extra vigilant - especially when sending goods out to an address that is not that of the card holder.

If you are at all suspicious, do as the dealers that tipped us off did and contact the card company BEFORE you send out the goods.
And if you do discover someone is attempting to con you, let the police know as soon as possible. We don’t want these people in our scene.

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