Motorbike stories in brief
TIME TO SCOOT:
If you're strapped for cash, strapped for time or live and commute in the city then you could benefit from owning Yamaha's new Jog R scooter. Dubbed "the practical scooter with the sporting personality", the Jog R is ideal for scooting around town.
It weighs in at 76kg, and has a 49cc, air-cooled, two-stroke, single cylinder engine. "It's a great engine," according to Colin Martin of Yamaha importer's Danfay. "The engine is taken from the popular but more conservative Yamaha Neos and put into this more stylish and sporty scooter." The 12-inch wheels will glide you over the bumpiest pot-holes that grace our country's roads as you perch on its 30.3 inch high seat: it also has 190mm front disc brakes. There's also enough storage space in its compartment for the all-important full-face helmet. Available in a choice of colours, the Yamaha Jog R is priced at €2,250.
SPEED LIMITER CALL IN BRITISH PARLIAMENT:
MPs in London last week announced that they would like to see speed limiters fitted to bikes to reduce the number of motorcycle related fatalities. Stephen Plowden, author of the the House of Commons' Transport Committee Report, said he couldn't see why anyone needed a bike with a top speed of more than 65 mph.
According to the Irish Road Safety Authority (RSA), its priority at the moment for motorcycle safety is not so much speed, but the introduction of mandatory training.
TRAVOLTA TO AUCTION HOG:
Movie star John Travolta has donated his Harley-Davidson motorcycle for auction to help with the restoration of a landmark US movie theatre. Travolta stars alongside Tim Allen in the new comedy bike flick Wild Hogs which is due for release here on Friday, April 13th. They play middle-aged bikers who hit the road for a two-wheeled adventure.
Signed by Travolta, the Hog, along with a signed leather jacket and a signed motorcycle helmet, will be auctioned off at a benefit dinner in the US in May. Funds raised by the auction will support the Marion Theatre renovation project and the Ocala Film Commission.
DAKAR DVD:
Duke video has released a DVD on the recent 2007 Dakar Rally, featuring footage and close up action from the 9,000 kilometre journey across challenging terrain. "An amazing 264 motorcycles, 189 cars and 85 trucks do battle with the elements during the fascinating 2007 competition," according to Duke. As well as spectacular footage, the DVD also includes an interview with daring 65-year-old Scottish biker Robbie Allan.
Dakar 2007 is out on April 16th and priced at £16.99 (€25). For more information visit, www.dukevideo.com
- Patricia Weston
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