Scootering July 2021

I’m pretty certain that the behaviour pattern of repeatedly buying scooters which you don’t actually need should really be classified as a recognised medical condition… well, that’s what I tell my good lady when I fail to mention each latest purchase, as they magically appear in the garage without any prior explanation. She’s a forgiving woman, she has to be, she’s married to me… but there is certainly a sense of frostiness as we both stand there in the garage staring at the new arrival, her waiting for me to speak, and me determined not to incriminate myself further. Thankfully, though, it’s a short-lived experience as I try to point at something shiny as a distraction and endeavour to change the subject. She’s no fool though, she keeps tally and…

There’s no doubt that two-stroke oil is one of the most debated topics among scooterists worldwide. Changing from one brand to another can be a nerve-wracking experience but following a chat between Stan and his enduro racing chum, this year Motul’s on the menu for our fleet. With more than 160 years of history, Motul can be expected to know a thing or two about the lubrication business. Reassuringly, its popularity among enduro riders suggests that Motul’s range of two-stroke oils are suited to prolonged use in high-revving, high-load applications. In addition to its Scooter Power and Scooter Extra, which are designed for both pre-mix and injector ‘factory’ engines, Motul also produces a range of specialist oils. It is these that we’re putting to the test this year. So far, its Technosynthese…

Last month we reported on globetrotting Vespa charity rider Markus Andre Mayer’s latest epic ride. This time he planned to create a new world record for the longest trip on a 50cc machine, his beloved V50n, Eleanor. Sadly, after six months of preparation, Markus has announced that due to ongoing Covid restrictions in Europe, the trip will have to be split into two sections. The new plan for his trip is to set off in July, visiting Germany, Austria and Switzerland. There are good signs that Luxembourg and Liechtenstein will also be covered in this first leg, which should incorporate visits to between 30 and 40 clubs without quarantine or major restrictions. The rest of the trip will be completed in Part 2, which will start around April or May next…

This information is provided by Stephen Hattersley, of WildWood Legal, a firm of solicitors specialising in claims for injured scooterists. Stephen, a qualified solicitor for 25 years, has been riding scooters for more than 30 years and has acted for injured riders across the UK. He knows the tricks and pitfalls that insurers use and pulls no punches in his dealings with them. He rides to work every day and understands the challenges you face out there. Q. I have heard that payments for minor injuries such as whiplash are getting cut hugely. Does this affect scooter riders? A. The rules have changed, yes, but they will not affect scooterists (or other bikers or pedestrians) as they have been excluded from this. The new regime only applies to people who suffered a…

Overview: Pull-down sun visor, high-impact absorption inner shell, multiple density EPS liner with quick-release micrometric buckle. Stu’s take: The range of helmets in this line all look good; however, while looks are important the practical application of the helmet must take priority. The fit is snug, comfortable and secure; the chinstrap is well organised and once you’ve got it set to your personal preferences it’s easy to operate. The integral sun visor pulls down smoothly, it doesn’t hit the bridge of your nose and in its down position it offers the perfect amount of glare reduction without being too dark. All-round peripheral vison is clear and uncompromised. Overall, the helmet is comfortable to wear over long and short periods, it doesn’t become irritating or intrusive and it’s as protective as this type of…

As I’m sure many of you are aware, Dixie King (of King’s Scooter Workshop in Milton Keynes) has been suffering with a form of brain cancer for some time now. Unlike many of us, who would most likely sit there feeling sorry for ourselves, Dixie has recorded the decline in his health, and changes in mood and attitude, in the form of a series of poems. These aren’t self-pitying works though, far from it. If anything, they show a surprising amount of positivity, and a huge amount of love for his wife Jules. They celebrate life, rather than the opposite, accepting what is happening to him as time progresses. These poems are now being gathered for publication, with all profits going towards supporting research into this terrible disease. This book needs…