MP3. When you see that file extension acronym in E-Gear Magazine, 99 percent of the time it is going to be associated with a portable music player or device making it easier for you to listen to your tunes. But Piaggio, the Italian scooter manufacturer has something else in mind. The clever marketing department figured they would tie-in with the famous MP3 moniker to persuade a younger, hipper audience to launch a unique vehicle. Along with other bystanders at the New York Motorcycle Show, I did a double-take when I came across the MP3 by Piaggio. What the heck is that? Clearly, the MP3 is like no other motorcycle, scooter, or motorized vehicle on the road.

Why? Because it has three wheels! And, before you ask, yes it can tip over if you try and ‘lay ‘er down,’ just like any other motorcycle or scooter. However, the three wheels add a tremendous amount of stability and confidence to the driver. If you never thought you would ever get on a scooter, the MP3 might just convert you. The magic happens with a push of a button on the right handlebar. This button either locks or unlocks the cantilever suspension system. So, when you are above 5 MPH, you push the button to unlock the suspension and allow the vehicle to lean through the turns. This is the difference between ‘riding’ the MP3 and ‘driving’ a car—the ability to lean into the turns. However, below 5 MPH another press of the button locks the electro-hydraulic suspension. This means the scooter can remain upright while at a standstill. The upright locking is by far one of the coolest features: If you need to input data into your motorcycle-friendly Garmin Zumo 550 GPS unit at a traffic light, you can do so without trying to accomplish the task without your feet balancing 450 pounds of motorcycle between your legs. Moreover, it also means that there is no need to put the vehicle on its stand, ensuring easy parking.

The process is simple. Hop on the scooter and fire it up making sure your hands are on both hand-mounted brake controls. If you want the MP3 to give you confidence, leave the button engaged that locks the suspension so you have ‘training wheels’ when you start off (it only works at speeds lower than 5 MPH). Just twist the throttle and go- Piaggio’s ‘Twist and Go’ automatic CVT with torque server means that you do not have to worry about shifting with your left foot and operating a clutch with your left hand. As soon as you get rolling (remember that on a scooter or motorcycle, speed provides stability so your confidence level automatically increases once you get rolling), you click the button off.

I was a little skeptical at first. First off, the MP3 attracts more people and riders than free beer at Daytona’s Bike Week. After all, it has three wheels! The advice I had from one of the expert Piaggio riders, a suave guy from Italy, was that it is a little different from riding a motorcycle but you’ll pick it up quickly. Indeed, he was right. I rode the MP3 from the front of Piaggio’s offices onto the mean streets of New York City. The additional stability provided by the third wheel makes you wonder why everyone can’t have one of these when learning how to ride. After a half a lap around the block, I was zipping around cabs, getting stares, and having a blast! Squeezing the brakes is very impressive too. Since there are two front wheels shod with Michelin tires, there is a lot of extra contact patch provided for stopping, even though they are only 12 inches in diameter. But make no mistake—this is a very real transportation solution; not a glorified Segway scooter. The 244 cc QUASAR fuel-injected motor (with catalytic converter to make it environmentally-friendly) can take the scooter past 77 MPH, making this a very real design for the interstate system. With its friendly under-seat storage capacity, you could drive the MP3 across country. But best of all, it is FUN. You feel the suspension working, you can enjoy the Italian styling, you become part of the ride, not just a passenger in it. The MP3 makes it possible to have fun and sip gas simultaneously. Because I did not have an extended drive, I cannot accurately report the fuel economy, but I can confidently estimate it between 50-60 MPG. Even with today’s gas prices that is about $10 per fill-up.

So it is with great contrast that I reviewed this scooter around the same time I reviewed the new Smart ForTwo car. Both are meant for urban transportation that can be used on the highway, but I would go with the MP3 every time. Heck, this past summer Piaggio even had a promotion with parking garages in Manhattan to allow for free parking- they picked up the tab! Indeed, you will need a helmet, and a rainy day will ruin your fun, but it just makes sense for getting around town with awesome fuel economy to boot. MP3- it ain’t just a file extension for music anymore. Now it is a real transportation alternative. yy

Thi sarticle was taken from: E-Gear

Italy’s Piaggio, maker of the Vespa scooter, reported a 10.8 percent rise in 2007 core profit on slightly higher sales, as it expanded in Asia where demand for two-wheelers is strong.

“(There was) growth in all lines of business over the year,” it said in a statement on Friday.
Piaggio & C SpA, controlled by holding company IMMSI, said its board had proposed a dividend of 0.06 euro a share, double the payout last year.
At 1524 GMT, Piaggio shares followed the market lower, trading down 3 percent at 1.66 euros in Milan, a record low.
Core profit — or earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) — totalled 226.1 million euros ($348.4 million), leading to a margin of 13.4 percent against 12.7 percent in 2006.

Net sales rose 5.3 percent to 1.69 billion euros.

Units sold reached 708,500 units, up 4.1 percent. Sales of the Vespa, Piaggio’s most famous brand, rose 17.1 percent to 117,000 units.

Faced with stagnant demand in its home market, Piaggio is expanding in emerging markets such as China, India and Vietnam.
Among the various scooters, motorcycles and three- and four-wheel vehicles made by Piaggio, new models brought to market last year included the Aprilia 750cc and 850cc.

“Management (will be) taking action to boost three/four-wheel commercial vehicle sales in India and re-launch the three/four-wheel commercial vehicle business in Europe,” it said.

The push is part of its aim to get a compound annual growth rate in sales of nearly 7 percent — excluding a joint venture in China — in the coming years.

This article was taken from: guardian.co.uk

The Tuono 1000 R is the bike that all other nakeds have to beat. It is a machine for the demanding motorcyclist, the rider who seeks maximum performance from a naked, on the road and on the track.

Ever since it first appeared on the motorcycling scene, the Tuono has embodied Aprilia’s genius and amazing technical know-how, accumulated through victory after victory in motorcycle racing. The Tuono has come to mean flair and technology more than any other road-going motorcycle.

The fact is that the Tuono is simply unique. Not just another naked, the Tuono is a 1000 cc superbike. Only the fairing has been removed, and the handlebars raised for maximum control. The Tuono has exceeded all expectations. It has proved unbeatable as a road bike, and the Factory version has been invincible on the racetrack, literally dominating the Italian naked racing scene. Not satisfied with success at home, the Tuono has also carried the Aprilia flag on the international racing scene, achieving prestige in epic races like the Isle of Mann Tourist Trophy, to name just one event in which the Tuono has fearlessly taken on production bikes and competition superbikes too. The Tuono is a street fighter with racing in the blood.

The new Tuono 1000 R is refined, powerful, and precise. It holds all the records for this class of motorcycle, and is the unquestioned leader on the twin cylinder scene. To put it simply, the Tuono 1000 R is the bike that all other nakeds have to beat. It is a machine for the demanding motorcyclist, the rider who seeks maximum performance from a naked, on the road and on the track.

With performance beyond the reach of the competition, the Tuono 1000 R is the best naked money can buy, with all the performance of a racing superbike to thrill even the most sophisticated racetrack riders.

The 139 HP engine not only gives you more power to play with, but makes the bike more usable on the road too. Just like the RSV from which it derives, the Tuono 1000 R embodies the concept of total ridability that has always characterised Aprilia’s performance motorcycles.

Manically precise ergonomics combine with amazingly easy control to let you establish a perfect feeling with the bike the moment you ride off, and to help you maximise your own potential with the minimum physical and mental effort.

The improvements that Aprilia’s engineers have made will ensure that the Tuono 1000 R continues to set the pace for high performance nakeds.

Let’s look at some of the main changes.

New V 60 Magnesium Evolution engine
Dynamic air intake (the only naked with ram air technology)
Electronic fuel injection system with 57 mm throttle bodies
16 bit engine management unit
Exhaust system with twin silencers and three way catalytic converter with Lambda probe oxygen sensor
Aluminium alloy perimeter frame
Double banana aluminium swingarm
Lighter steering yoke
Once again Aprilia has succeeded in producing an exclusive, refined and unique naked. The latest Tuono 1000 R remains the most sought after of all naked twins, and the perfect synthesis of exclusive components, quality, technology and finish.

Like the RSV, the Tuono has been perfected on the track to satisfy the most demanding and refined motorcyclists. Each individual part has been developed to maximise the performance and riding pleasure of a naked that is already a legend in racing circles.

Engine performance is better than ever. Maximum power is 102 kW (139 HP) at the crank and maximum torque 10.9 kgm at only 8,500 rpm. The Aprilia Tuono 1000 R is therefore among the most powerful of all nakeds.

Styling

The bike’s styling is unmistakably Aprilia, and unmistakably Tuono. The Tuono 1000 R maintains a close family look with the previous model and the RSV 1000 R from which it derives. The new, aggressive nose fairing, with closely mounted twin headlights, has been developed in wind tunnel testing to provide effective protection for the rider and to kill lift at high speeds, ensuring maximum precision and control.

The Tuono 1000 R has been designed with performance and comfort in mind. All parts are styled for stunning looks and maximum functionality. The two lateral spoilers, for example, not only look great but also serve an important aerodynamic purpose. They help keep the bike stable at high speed and keep the wind off the rider’s legs. It is partly thanks to these spoilers that the Tuono 1000 R provides better aerodynamic protection than any other naked.

The design team has also gone to great lengths to ensure that, unlike other nakeds, the Tuono 1000 R benefits from race-tuned engine breathing. The Tuono 1000 R is the only naked with a dynamic air intake located directly under the nose fairing, and a duct to channel ram air through the frame to the airbox. Yet more proof of the Tuono 1000 R’s uncompromising racing soul!

On the Tuono 1000 R, ergonomics is one of the bike’s strong points. The seating position has been carefully designed to give the rider maximum control over the front end. The handlebar risers are lower and the footrests have been moved further back, so that the riding position is sportier and more effective. Despite this, overall comfort has even improved, so that riding is less tiring.

The sleek tail with its integrated direction indicators is similar to that of the RSV but points upwards to enhance the Tuono 1000 R’s dynamic styling. The bike can also be rapidly transformed from dual seat to single by an official Aprilia kit (optional).

The V60 Magnesium Evolution engine

The latest 1000 cc V 60 Magnesium Evolution engine is derived from that of the RSV 1000 R Factory, with only a few minor changes to improve torque and muscle at low revs. The engine has been thoroughly redesigned to maintain its reputation as the best twin cylinder engine in production. So performance is more amazing than ever, with 100% usable power and, of course, that proverbial Aprilia reliability.

Engine breathing has been improved by new, bigger exhaust valves (enlarged from 31 to 33 mm in diameter) and new, larger diameter exhaust header pipes. Thanks to these improvements, the V60 Magnesium Evolution that drives the Tuono 1000 R puts out more power than ever, 139 HP at 9,500 rpm, while also boosting torque to an impressive 10.9 Kgm at 8,500 rpm, a figure that tells you all you need to know about the muscle that Aprilia’s V twin can deliver even at low revs.

The silencers have catalytic converters installed nearer to the collector pipes. This solution has reduced converter activation time by 50% while further reducing the level of exhaust emissions, keeping tem well within the strict limits required for Euro 3 homologation.

Optimised fluid dynamics inside the cylinder heads have been enhanced by improved mapping of the combined ignition and fuel injection systems to achieve higher power throughout the useful rev range.

So let’s have a look at the main characteristics of the new V 60 Magnesium Evolution engine:

New optimised cylinder heads with bigger valves and one spark plug per cylinder
57 mm throttle bodies with one injector per cylinder
High strength conrods
Lighter overall weight thanks to the extensive use of magnesium
Close-ratio gearbox
Dry sump lubrication with a double trochoid pump, separate oil tank and oil cooler
Mixed gear and chain valve timing. The drive gears (one for each timing chain) are located inside the crankcase to keep the cylinder heads as compact as possible.
AVDC (Anti Vibration Double Countershaft).
Aprilia’s patented PPC (Pneumatic Power Clutch) hydraulically operated, power assisted clutch system for controlling rear wheel bounce under deceleration

The Tuono 1000 R inherits the RSV’s dynamic air intake, locating it just under the headlight cluster, in the centre of the bike where ram air pressure is highest. The Air Runner duct (which also supports the nose fairing and instruments) channels the air to a 10.3 litre airbox, designed to allow the engine to develop its full potential. The Air Runner duct ensures that pressure in the airbox increases with speed, and generates a 3% increase in engine power at maximum speed.

An engine control unit developed in conjunction with Siemens VDO provides integrated engine management. The ECU receives all essential engine parameters in real time from 15 different sensors, processes the data and, again in real time, controls the various actuators that keep the engine functioning perfectly at all times.

The unit’s flash EPROM comes with the mapping for unrestricted racing exhausts ready loaded. Aprilia’s Technical Assistance Service can therefore enable race mapping in next to no time on request.

Frame

Whether you are riding on the road or on the track, the Tuono 1000 R’s chassis brings you the tops in performance and control. Every aspect of the frame, fork and suspensions has been fine tuned for perfect weight distribution. In keeping with Aprilia traditions, the frame is a combination of aluminium-silicon alloy castings and Peraluman 450 pressed parts. This highly sophisticated structure is not only more rigid than the previous version but lighter too. The latest frame weighs under 10 kg (9650 grams) setting an impressive new record for its class. The wheelbase is shorter too, and at 1410 mm - another record for the category - accounts for the Tuono 1000 R’s crisper than even handling and more instinctive ride.

The new double banana swingarm provides a clear passage for the exhaust system and weighs only 4860 grams, well under the 5 kg figure considered by experts to be the reference weight for this component.

Suspension

The fork is a Showa upside down unit, with 43 mm stanchions for a perfect balance between precision on the racetrack and comfort on the road. And to ensure that the ideal setup can be achieved for all styles and conditions, on the road and on the track alike, the fork is fully adjustable in spring preload and in compression and rebound damping.

The Sachs monoshock at the rear is likewise adjustable in spring preload and rebound damping.

Braking System

The braking system has undergone a number of major changes. The new Tuono 1000 R is equipped with Brembo Gold radial calipers featuring two separate sintered pads. The two 320 mm floating steel discs feature a narrower braking band to minimise inertia and weight and are fixed in place by Aprilia’s exclusive six spoke flange.

The rear braking system is Brembo Gold too, with a 220 mm stainless steel disc and a caliper with two 32 mm pistons.

The front and rear brakes both use aeronautical metal braided hoses to eliminate the sponginess inevitably associated with conventional brake hoses and to ensure maximum braking precision.

Components

What makes the Aprilia Tuono 1000 R stand out from the competition is the tremendous care and attention that Aprilia has paid to every little detail. The design team have done their very best to ensure that every component on the bike improves its performance and functionality, reduces its weight and enhances its quality and finish.

The following components deserve special mention.
- The dashboard is a mixed (digital-analog) unit. It uses the data received over the CAN line to perform an essential autodiagnostic function for which it incorporates a dedicated memory. The new dashboard control unit performs the same functions as the previous unit (including the 40 lap timer) but is more compact and modern in design and extremely lightweight. User friendliness has improved too, with all functions controlled from two practical push-buttons on the left hand light switch.

The LED backlighting can also be adjusted to three levels of intensity.

The headlight cluster is derived from that of the RSV, and incorporates four light units for perfect night-time visibility.
The new tail light cluster features the innovative design and LED lighting of the RSV.
The ignition key is internally coded, and the ignition block is fitted with an engine immobiliser as standard.

Colours

Aprilia’s dedication to style clearly emerges from the elegant colour schemes and graphics that enhance the Tuono 1000 R’s aggressive looks. The Tuono 1000 R is available in a choice of five colour schemes: silver crowd, orange code, white ice, blue dream, black diablo.

Technical Specifications

Engine
V60 Magnesium Evolution. Longitudinal 60° V twin, four stroke. Liquid cooling with three-way pressurised circuit. Double overhead cams, mixed gear/chain timing drive, four valves per cylinder. Patented AVDC anti-vibration double countershaft. Euro 3.

Fuel
95 RON unleaded petrol.

Bore and stroke
97 x 67.5 mm.

Displacement
997.62 cc.

Compression ratio
11.8:1.

Maximum power at the crank
102 kW (139 HP) at 9,500 rpm.

Maximum torque at the crank
10.9 kgm (107 Nm) at 8,500 rpm.

Fuel system
Integrated electronic engine management system. Indirect multi-point electronic injection. 57 mm diameter throttle bodies.

Ignition
Digital electronic ignition, integrated with the injection control system. One spark plug per cylinder.

Starting
Electric starter.

Exhaust system
Two silencers with three way catalytic converter and lambda probe oxygen sensor (Euro 3).

Generator
12 V - 500 W.

Lubrication
Dry sump with separate oil reservoir.

Double trochoid pump with oil cooler.

Steel oil reservoir.

Gearbox
6 speed. Transmission ratios:

1st 34/15 (2.27)

2nd 31/19 (1.63)

3rd 26/20 (1.3)

4th 24/22 (1.091)

5th 24/25 (0.96)

6th 23/26 (0.88)

Clutch
Multiple disc in oil bath with patented PPC power-assisted hydraulic control.

Metal braid clutch line.

Radial master cylinder with 15 mm piston.

Primary drive
Spur gears. Transmission ratio: 60/31 (1.935:1).

Final drive
Chain.

Transmission ratio: 40/16 (2.5:1).

Frame
Box section sloping twin-spar frame in aluminium alloy.

Front suspension
Showa 43 mm upside-down fork with adjustment for spring preload, compression and rebound damping.

Rear suspension
Aluminium alloy double banana swingarm. APS (Aprilia Progressive System) rising rate linkages.

Sachs hydraulic monoshock with adjustment for spring preload and rebound damping.

Brakes
Front: Brembo double floating disc in stainless steel, Ø 320 mm.

Brembo triple bridge caliper with four 34 mm pistons and four sintered pads.

Metal braided brake line.

Rear: Brembo stainless steel disc, Ø 220 mm. Twin piston calliper, 32 mm diameter pistons, sintered pads. Metal braided brake line.

Wheels
Aluminium alloy.

Front: 3.50 x 17″

Rear: 6.00 x 17″.

Tyres
Radial tubeless.

Front: 120/70 ZR 17.

Rear: 190/50 ZR 17 (alternative: 180/55 ZR 17 and 190/55).

Dimensions
Maximum length: 2,025 mm

Maximum width: 830 mm (at handlebars)

Maximum height: 1,100 mm (at handlebars)

Seat height: 810 mm

Handlebar height: 1,020 mm at bar ends

Wheelbase: 1,410 mm

Trail: 103.7 mm

Steering angle: 25°

Dry weight
(without battery)
185 kg

Tank
Capacity 18 litres, 4 litre reserve.

Colours
silver crowd, orange code, white ice, blue dream, black diablo

Accessories
Aprilia by Akrapovic Street Legal 2×2 slip-on silencers; Aprilia By Akrapovic Street Legal complete exhaust system, provision for Öhlins forks with radial caliper mountings, Öhlins aluminium monoshock, Öhlins steel monoshock, Öhlins adjustable steering damper, adjustable aluminium footrests, ergal reverse pattern gear shifter, forged magnesium wheels (red), Z-15 sprocket, protective bobbin kit, carbon fibre RH-LH side panels, carbon fibre expansion chamber guard, carbon fibre oil tank guard, carbon fibre RH-LH spoilers, carbon fibre LH side panel, carbon fibre seat cover, carbon fibre front mudguard, carbon fibre rear mudguard, carbon fibre RH-LH heel guards, large clear windshield kit, tank bag, rear fairing bag, paddock stand, Aprilia electronic anti-theft system (+installation kit).

This article was taken from: londonbikers.com

Britain Motorcycle industry faces a huge uphill battle next year as EU laws are set to drastically cut the number of centres in the UK capable of conducting tests, making it harder than ever for riders to gain a full licence.

According to official government figures from September 29 only 66 of the current 233 centres in the UK will be able to pass students due to a new part of the test forced into effect by the EU, meaning riders will have to travel further than ever to complete their licences.

From this date every new rider taking the practical part of their test will have to pass a new ‘hazard avoidance’ test before being allowed to proceed to the road assessment. Fail this new test and you won’t even get to take the road ride.

On the face of it this isn’t a bad thing. The ‘hazard avoidance’ test is designed to ensure that new riders are trained to avoid a crash by aggressive cornering. In effect the test consists of the student riding at a cone and swerving away from it at the last minute. The problem is it has to be conducted in a safe off-road environment, such as a tarmac car park. Only 66 test centres in the UK have such a facility. From the end of September if the centre isn’t one of these 66 then it can’t pass you. Simple. But all is not as it seems.

While the government are saying there will be 66 we believe it could be as low as half of that, 33 centres ready in time, said Craig Carey-Clinch from the UK’s Motorcycle Industry Association, who has been running a campaign to encourage riders to take their test before the law change. It’s a huge issue as the number of people waiting to take their test could soon over-load the test system. This could easily damage biking as a whole, the government needs to get its act together.

The Driving Standards Agency, who are responsible for the UK’s test centres claims it has done everything possible to smooth the introduction of this new law.

Most customers should be able to reach a bike-testing facility within 45 minutes, travelling no more than 20 miles. The locations for the new facilities have been very carefully selected and will ensure that in excess of 80% of the population of Great Britain will fall within those criteria; around 95% will be within 60 minutes of such a facility; and around 99% will be within 90 minutes of a centre, said a spokesperson.

The best advice is if you are considering passing your test, or know someone who is planning it, is to stop thinking about it and do it now. For more information on how to pass your test log onto the DSA’s website at www.dsa.gov.uk or the Motorcycle Industry Association’s at www.mcia.co.uk.

(this article was taken from visordown.com)

A version of the futuristic Aprilia Mana, which incorporates technology that negates the necessity for a clutch, is on its way to South Africa and could soon become a regular face on our roads.

Unlike earlier self-shifting motorcycles that faded into oblivion due to lack of interest caused by sluggish performance, the lively Mana offers riders the option of using any of three fully automatic modes (Sport, Touring and Rain), as well as two manual options. These are operated either through the usual lever near the left foot, or sequentially via using two buttons on the handle bars.

The auto modes are continuously variable, with electronics manipulating gear ratios and throttle response to suit the selected riding conditions, and the two manual options both provide slick shifting through seven ratios without the need for a clutch - much like the speedshifter on a racing motorcycle.

According to the Aprilia factory gear changes are quicker and slicker with this system than with a standard transmission.

The Mana (which means ‘the stuff from which magic is made’ in Polynesian and other Oceanic languages) is unique in that it’s a full-sized 850cc V-twin motorcycle that combines exciting sports-bike levels of performance on the open road with the practicality of a scooter around town.

The bike is loaded with features that make it perfect for the city commuter. A dummy fuel tank opens to expose a non-slip, non-scratch luggage compartment and courtesy light. This compartment is large enough to accommodate a full-face helmet, along with cellular-phone and document storage compartments.

The Mana also features a 12V power socket, an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) that relieves the rider of the burden of operating clutch and gear levers in traffic, an under-the-seat fuel tank that keeps the centre of gravity low, a handbrake for when you park on hills, and a stainless-steel exhaust incorporating a catalytic converter. But the Mana is not only practical as an urban commuter, it can also be used with great effect to cover large distances cross-country.

The 850cc 90° V-twin creates 57kW and is linked to a seven-speed manually operated sequential gearbox that allows quick clutchless shifting. The power unit is housed in a steel trellis frame with a single-piece aluminium swingarm and complemented by 43mm upside-down front forks, monoshock rear suspension adjustable for preload and rebound damping, four-pot radial front brake calipers clamping twin 320mm discs, and a single 260mm rear disc.

The Aprilia Mana has been well received in Europe, where many scooter riders are expected to use it as a means of shifting from basic two-wheeled transport to serious motorcycling. Motorcyclists who do a lot of city commuting are buying it to make life easier in heavy traffic on weekdays, while the sporting nature of the machine makes it an suitable recreational machine.

This article was taken from: Wheels 24

THE Piaggio Group in association with their local partners, the Alfardan Motorcycle Centre, launched a range of scooters in Qatar at a function on Thursday.

Products are being launched under the Piaggio, Vespa and Gilera brand names. The launch was held at the recently opened Alfardan Motorcycle Centre at Khalifa Town.

The products are the Vespa, Piaggio’s three wheeled 400cc MP3 and the Gilera 500cc performance scooter which promises to embarrass many motorcycles.

The MP3 is the first three-wheeled scooter, with two wheels in the front which provide much greater grip and safety than conventional scooters and two-wheelers.

Gilera will soon be launching the fastest scooter ever made, the GP800, which Piaggio claims will be capable of 200kph.
The Gilera will retail for QR39,000 and the MP3 will go for QR37,000.

Three Vespas of 250cc, 125cc and 50cc are available. These will sell for QR23,000, 19,000 and 13,000 respectively.
The three-wheeled scooters are opening a new market and are aimed at people who have never ridden two-wheelers before _ providing a safe option for beginners because of the stability provided by two wheels in front.

The Piaggio Group’s area manager, Georges Marianelli, said, scooters are the fastest growing means of individual transportation across the globe.

Scooters deliver practicality, fun and leisure in one package.
Because of parking and other contemporary traffic issues, scooters are an option that is growing in popularity with people in cities, he said.

About Vespa, a name which is now synonymous with the scooter, he said: Vespa is today not only tradition, classic style and fashionable design, it is also state of the art from the technical point of view.

He felt there was room to grow in Qatar and the Middle East and was confident of the market’s potential.
Marianelli said market share in Qatar or the region is difficult to calculate.
Unlike in Europe there is no group to assess and gather data from the region.

The Piaggio official said: We represent the high end of the market. We are not aiming at this stage to achieve double digit growth in this region.

Marianelli stressed the firm’s effort to globalise its presence.

We have to invest in each country which presents an opportunity. You cannot just produce in the home country and export.
Marianelli said all products are in line with Euro III norms and said that a new 125cc fuel injection engine will soon join the existing injected engines of 250, 400 and 500cc.

Also present at the function were Robert Zarzour, director of motorcycles and lifestyles at Alfardan Motorcycles Centre, and Roy Burt, chief operating officer, of Alfardan Autombiles.

Burt said: We welcome another prestigious addition to Alfardan Motorcycles Centre. Our country’s economic outlook is evolving and so are its aesthetic features, a fact that require innovative solutions in transportation. As a pioneer in the vehicles market we look for constant expansion schemes, allying ourselves with world leaders to keep pace with our country’s growing cosmopolitan needs.

Zarzour said that 2007 was the first full year for Alfardan Motorcyles Centre after its opening in November 2006.
The centre is already exclusive importer of Ducati, KTM and BMW Motorrad.
He expressed his satisfaction at having secured the dealership for an important brand like Piaggio.
Piaggio also includes other names like Aprilia, Scarabeo, Derbi, Moto Guzzi, Ape and others.
In 2007 Piaggio achieved a production of over 600,000 units with sales of E1.2bn across 100 countries. It has plants in Italy, Spain, Chain and India with new plants to be established in Vietnam.

This article was taken from: Gulf Times

Motorcycle, moped and scooter registrations were up 8.6 per cent last year to record the biggest increase in seven years. Registrations of all powered two wheelers (PTW) totalled 144,583 in 2007 - the highest figure since 2003and well ahead of the 133,076 registrations in 2006. Passenger car registrations last year increased by only 2.5 per cent.

Motorcycle registrations in 2007 increased by a hefty 9.7 per cent, while mopeds increased by 4 per cent and scooters by 9.1 per cent. The biggest-selling PTW of the year was the Yamaha YBR 125 with 2,272 registrations.

Craig Carey-Clinch, director of public affairs for the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) said: This is a great result for the motorcycle industry despite rising interest rates, falling house prices, record oil prices, the credit crunch and even poor weather. Perhaps it is because of all these factors. Motorcycling makes increasing transport and economic sense and an ever-growing number of people are realising that they provide low cost, congestion-beating alternatives to cars and public transport.

Powered two wheeler ownership costs are relatively low. They are also part of the solution to the pressures on the environment. They help to ease congestion and parking problems; journey times are shorter and predictable; fuel consumption and carbon footprints are lower; and they represent freedom and can be great fun. PTWs are reliable, practical and very efficient forms of transport and market growth reflects this.

PTWs with engines of 51 to 125cc took the biggest share of the market, suggesting growing use of these smaller-engined machines by learners, novice and commuter riders. Three bikes of less than 125cc made it into the top ten best sellers last year.

Another factor in the popularity of smaller-engined bikes is the growing number of people gaining a motorcycle licence ahead of new regulations that later in 2008, will make it more difficult, expensive and time-consuming to get a bike licence.

A 13.4 per cent gain in naked bike registrations also indicates increasing commuter and practical use of PTWs.

The biggest growth, of almost 32 per cent , was in the adventure sport sector, led by the BMW R1200 GS - similar to the bikes used by Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman in their Long Way Down trip through Africa. The custom and touring sectors also made gains of 6.5 and 11.2 per cent respectively, reflecting the use of bigger bikes for leisure and longer distance touring.

Craig Carey-Clinch added: Motorcycles are now more relevant than for many years. People are reviewing their personal transport in an effort to lower costs and reduce the hassles of going anywhere. They also recognise the sense of freedom that comes with PTW ownership and want an alternative to crowded, expensive public transport and the restrictions and costs of car use. With more people taking their bike test and clear signs of more women taking to two wheels, the industry is looking to build on this growth in 2008.

This article was taken from: Easier Motoring