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  1. Suzuki has given its small capacity range a boost with the unveiling of three new 125cc scooters, with the new Address 125, Avenis 125, and Burgman Street 125EX revealed today at Intermot in Cologne, Germany.

    All three are engineered to provide comfort, practicality, and outstanding urban performance while also delivering excellent levels of economy and efficiency, but they do so in their own way and with their own style, giving customers the option to enjoy their city, their way.

    Engine 

    The proven Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) engine sits at the heart of all three machines, though the Burgman Street 125EX uses the latest αlpha iteration. The air-cooled, single-cylinder powerplant currently powers over five million Suzukis worldwide, and is the forward-looking engine development concept from Suzuki, which results in an outstanding level of environmentally responsible performance, both in terms of low fuel consumption and low emissions. 

    All three models achieve an impressive 148.67mpg figure and produce just 44g/km of CO2 emissions. At the same time, they still deliver powerful acceleration, with peak horsepower and maximum torque delivered at low rpm. 

    For the Avenis 125 and Address 125 this is 8.7PS at 6,750rpm and 10Nm at 5,500rpm. The Burgman Street 125EX’s peak power of 8.6PS comes in at 6,500rpm, while peak torque remains the same.

    The Burgman Street 125EX, equipped with the SEP-α engine, benefits from extra features which enhance the user experience while at the same time achieving a high levels of fuel economy and quiet operation, including Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS), a new idling stop system, and Suzuki’s new Silent Start System. 

    A

    ddress 125 

    Inspired by traditional scooter design, the Address 125 boasts classic city style, with curves and attractive body lines punctuated by chrome accents, completed with the classic rounded headlight, which is full LED, as are the position lights and integrated indicators. There’s also a tail-mounted cap, finished in chrome, designed to facilitate easy refuelling and ensure there is no risk of spillages on the floorboard or bags. 

    The classic style also extends to the clocks, with an analogue speedometer sat atop a digital display. Wrapping around the speedometer is a handy eco indicator, which illuminates green when the Address 125 is being ridden in an economical manner, encouraging fuel efficient riding. Starting is easy with one push of the button enough to start the engine, thanks to Suzuki’s Easy Start System.

    21.8 litres of underseat storage give plenty of storage space, plus an upfront storage pocket gives easy access to frequently used items, above which sits a USB charger for smartphones. Dual utility hooks provide extra security for transporting bags or other items. There are also two underseat hooks which can secure helmets when parked, which is made even simpler thanks to centre and side stands coming as standard. 

    While parked a shutter concealing the ignition key hole provides additional security. To open, an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism is coded to the owner’s key. It also includes a seat opener that eliminates the need to remove the key to access the underseat utility compartment. 

    With a ready-to-ride weight of 105kg it is easy to handle and highly manoeuvrable. The Address’ underbone frame is built using large-diameter, thin, round tubes, designed to minimise weight while maximising rigidity and also to provide excellent straight-line stability and positive cornering performance. 

    Stopping power comes from a 190mm diameter disc brake in the front and a 120mm drum brake in the rear, while a combined braking system ensures a stable braking performance by distributing force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. 

    The Address 125 rides on a short wheelbase that contributes to ease of manoeuvrability and works in conjunction with the light, slim design to offer easier, more agile handling. The slim design, low seat height and seat shape help make it easy to place both feet on the ground. 

    Avenis 125 

    Providing sporty city fun, the Avenis 125 aims to balance performance, style, and practicality; sharp, aggressive looks complement edgy, and dynamic lines, with an upswept tail section and stylish front cowling with floating meter visor. Lighting comes from an aggressive, stacked-lens body-mounted LED headlight, plus vertically-oriented LED position lights add a striking accent to the face. 

    Distinctive graphics on the sides of the front cowl highlight the scooter’s aggressive attitude, and black metallic-finish emblems add a sophisticated touch. 

    A sporty two-tone seat with attractive red stitching is firm yet comfortable, with ample padding and a richly textured surface that provides a secure grip when riding. In addition, its carefully crafted shape makes it easy for the rider to put both feet on the ground when stopped, along with cutaway footboards. 

    A digital instrument panel for the Avenis 125 features a compact LCD screen with a clean and intuitive layout, and it also gets a handy eco indicator light to highlight fuel efficient operation by the rider. 

    The chassis comprises an underbone frame that contributes to the Avenis 125’s fuel efficiency, excellent straight-line stability, and positive cornering performance. As well as a short wheelbase and semi-soft front suspension settings that provide a smooth and comfortable ride, along with a rear shock that is finely tuned to deliver solid road-holding performance, and agile handling. 

    Similar to the Address 125, Suzuki’s Combined Brake System supports well-balanced braking by distributing braking force to both the front and rear wheels when the left brake lever is operated. Hardware features a 190mm diameter disc brake at the front and a 120mm drum brake at the rear. 

    Practicality comes from 21.5 litres of underseat storage – with two helmet hooks – dual utility hooks for carrying extra items, an open upfront pocket and one shutable compartment housing a USB charging port. Like the Address 125, a shutter concealing the ignition key hole can be opened quickly, using an easy-to-operate magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. There’s also a standard fit centre stand a side stand. Riders can also lock the rear brake via a switch on the left lever, when parking. 

    Burgman Street 125EX 

    The Burgman Street 125EX is the smart city commuter, tailored to excel and brings a new level of elegant style and performance. It stands out with its fusion of class, style, performance, comfort, practicality, and convenience. 

    Comfort is taken care of with a long, well-padded seat. Generously proportioned floorboards allow flexibility in foot positioning to maintain a comfortable riding position, while extended footboards up front let the rider extend their legs for greater comfort when cruising. 

    The look of luxury and sophistication is created with elegant lines and a sense of volume from its striking bodywork to the red stitching on the seat, distinctive lighting and integrated turn signals, and attention to detail. 

    A clean LCD dash displays information to the rider, including the eco indicator light, as well as an indicator for the Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS). 

    Like the Avenis, there are 21.5 litres of underseat storage and two helmet hooks, plus two utility hooks for carrying extra items.  It also features a closable front compartment with a USB charging port and an additional easy access front storage compartment, next to which is the ignition key slot which can be covered using a magnet mechanism coded to the owner’s key. 

    A longer wheelbase provides impeccable great straight line stability and gives a solid, planted feel and comfortable ride. A firmer suspension setup for the front suspension helps achieve a smooth ride quality, with the spring rate and operation of the front forks optimised for the front wheel weight distribution. Settings for both the forks and rear suspension are finely tuned to the tyres and wheels to achieve a fine balance of stability, road-holding performance, agile handling, and a comfortable ride, even when passing over uneven surfaces. 

    With a longer wheelbase, strong braking performance is maintained thanks to a larger diameter drum brake, at 130mm. It also gets a combined brake system to modulate braking force between the front and rear wheels when using the left brake lever. 

  2. #ValenciaGP Free Practice. Enea Bastianini and Team Gresini Racing MotoGP had a good start to the final event of the season, with the #23 fifth-quickest in today’s combined free practice times. The Italian rider, who is still in the battle for a top-three overall finish, is only 0.177seconds in arrears of fellow Ducati rider Marini, and he still has some fine tuning to do.
     
    Fabio Di Giannantonio’s day was not a positive one, as the Italian tucked the front at turn two in the second FP session - but was fortunately unscathed after the tumble. The series rookie finished the day second-last with slightly more than a one and a half seconds of gap. He and his crew will need to roll up their sleeves and try to bounce back tomorrow, starting from the morning’s Free Practice 3. 

    5th - ENEA BASTIANINI #23 (1’30.394s)
    “It was a good day. We struggled a little in FP1, but we were in a good place already in the afternoon. The FP2 time attack gave us a good feeling, even though I know I can improve a little in the third split and at the last corner. We’re OK in the rest of the track. Our pace is consistently quick despite some tiny little mistakes here and there. We still need a small extra step forward for the race, but we’re in line for a good weekend.”
     
    23rd - FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO #49 (1’31.762s)
    “We surely didn’t get off to a good start. We tried to improve in FP2, and we did it, but the crash at turn two slowed us down and there will be a lot to catch up with tomorrow in order to have a good Saturday.”

  3. The British Motor Museum is celebrating after being awarded a coveted ‘Best Told Story’ Award from VisitEngland. The Museum is one of 97 attractions awarded accolades for the outstanding experiences they provide to visitors across categories including Welcome, Best Told Story, Quality Food & Drink, Hidden Gem, and Gold for overall winners. The Best Told Story award is presented when the judges feel “visitors have left the venue having thoroughly enjoyed an entertaining and interesting visit”.

    Jeff Coope, Managing Director at the British Motor Museum said, “We are absolutely delighted and proud to have won this prestigious Award. The team work hard to ensure every single visitor to the Museum has a wonderful and memorable time – so this is testimony to their dedication and passion.  This year alone we have added two new exhibitions – ‘Small Car. Big History - celebrating 100 years of the Austin Seven’, and ‘The Legendary Daytona Motorcycle’ and it is an honour to be acknowledged for sharing the story of Britain’s incredible motoring heritage with our visitors”.

    VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said“It’s so exciting to see our brilliant attractions providing outstanding experiences for visitors and to recognise and showcase the variety and quality across the country. England has unmissable visitor attractions and experiences that deliver world-class customer service. They also provide the warmest of welcomes and unforgettable storytelling that connects the whole experience, including retail and food and drink offers that exceed expectations.”

    Introduced in 2014, the accolades are available to VisitEngland’s Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme participants across a wide range of tourism experiences in England from museums and galleries, farm attractions, historic houses and gardens to churches, cathedrals, and country parks.  Participating attractions are supported by a network of highly trained and experienced assessors who advise them on improving and promoting the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of their offer.

    For more information on the Awards please visit https://www.visitbritain.org. For more information about the Museum please call 01926 895300 or visit the website at https://www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/

  4. With two weeks to go until Motorcycle Live, in association with Bikesure Insurance, swings open its doors at the NEC, Birmingham, motorcycle enthusiasts across the UK are gearing up to enjoy the wonderful world of motorcycling under one roof. 

    Brand-new or classic or custom - there’s something for everyone! 

    It will be the first chance to see the latest launches from over 50 manufacturers, and for some models, it will be their debut in the UK after being freighted by brands straight across the channel from the overseas shows earlier in November. 

    This year, the Classic Feature supported by the National Motorcycle Museum, will be celebrating Triumph’s 120th birthday by showcasing a number of landmark models from the British brand’s history and restoring a 1923 Triumph Junior Lightweight “Baby” 2.5hp live on the stand. Visitors will also be able to check out the unique machines on the Custom Heroes stand, supported by Back Street Heroes and the Dream Garage will be home to 10 of the top picks from the 2022 Motorcycle Live celebrity and rider panel.

    Get on two wheels for FREE 

    It doesn’t matter whether you have a licence or not, there are a whole host of ways to experience two wheels at the show - including on the road or on the dirt, petrol or electric power, and all of them are included in the price of the entry ticket!  

    Visitors who want to try out two wheels for the first time can head to  TryRide, sponsored by MCN, those wanting to take to the dirt and try out the latest adventure bikes may want to make a beeline for Experience Adventure which is supported by six major manufacturers.  Those wanting to head out on the open road should get their name down in the Test Ride Zone. There’s also the dedicated Electric Test Ride zone for visitors to try out electric power on the purpose-built track. 

    Driven to the show but still want to ride? No problem! Riding kit is kindly provided by Shoei, Sidi, Spada, RST and Bell, where required. 

    Live entertainment and chance to win prizes

    The much-loved Blackhorse Stage will take its place at the heart of the show with a packed schedule of rider and celebrity interviews, fun and games. James Whitham will be back presenting ‘Whitham Talks’ every day over the course of the week, chatting with a variety of guests. Every day at 1pm, two teams of racing stars and celebrities will go head-to-head in ‘Visordown - Question of Bikes’, a Q&A game with multiple rounds and a lot of curveballs. Win prizes with ‘Bike Trac Stronger for Longer’,  'R&G Wheel Change Challenge', the ‘Visin Bike Balance’ and the brand new 'Gerbing' Beat the Buzzer game!

    Fun for the whole family 

    The riding opportunities aren’t just for adults - mini-motorcycle fans as young as 18-months-old can get involved at the Kiddimoto Balance Bike Experience and those four years and older can enjoy the Arenacross Youth MX Experience. 

    Get organised for Christmas - or just treat yourself! 

    Whether visitors are preparing for the upcoming holiday, updating their kit for the new year or just looking to treat themselves, the retail area will offer plenty of choice of gifts for motorcycle fans. 

    Motorcycle Live 2022 in association with Bikesure Insurance takes place at The NEC, Birmingham from 19-27 November. See You There! 

    *Bookings are subject to a £2.00

  5. The Isle of Man Time Trial (TT) event is one of the most iconic motorsport events on the planet. Staged on the Isle of Man, an island situated off the coast of north-west England and nestled midway between England and Northern Ireland in the Irish Sea, it’s a unique and wholly challenging venue. It used to be part of the MotoGP Championship, before safety concerns saw it swiftly culled. Even the Moto2 GP Championship, containing the motorbike stars of the future, has remained fiercely loyal to Silverstone and Donington Park on the grounds of rider safety. Spaniard, Augusto Fernandez claimed this year’s British Moto2 GP Grand Prix at Silverstone. The 25-year-old is in great shape to win the Moto2 Championship outright with one race remaining in Valencia.     Isle of Man, Douglas, TT, Grandstand- Source Piqsels

    The staggering statistic surrounding the Isle of Man TT is that more than 200 entrants have lost their lives mid-race since its inception in 1907. You might wonder if the majority of deaths occurred in the earliest years of the event when race safety may not have been as comprehensive as it is today. However, just last month a French sidecar competitor sustained life-threatening injuries following a crash. Cesar Chanal later died after being transferred to a hospital in his native France.

    Both Chanal and his sidecar teammate, Olivier Lavorel, were debutants at the Isle of Man TT but they were certainly no strangers to sidecar racing. The duo had competed regularly in the F1 and F2 National Sidecar Championships in France, finishing on the podium on multiple occasions.

    However, the pair crashed on their opening lap of the Isle of Man TT race. This takes the number of deaths from crashes at the Isle of Man TT circuit to a staggering six in 2022 alone. In fact, this year’s TT has now become the deadliest since 1970. Father and son duo, Roger and Bradley Stockton passed away tragically following another sidecar crash at the same spot as Chanal and Lavorel. Meanwhile Northern Irishman Davy Morgan also suffered fatal injuries in the opening Supersport race of the TT.

    After a two-year hiatus due to the impact of the pandemic, there was heaps of expectation surrounding the 2022 Isle of Man TT. The lack of the event being staged on the island in 2020 and 2021 resulted in an estimated £4.8 million loss of annual revenue. However, it’s clear that the event’s return made the headlines for all the wrong reasons this year.

    The history of course incidents at the Isle of Man TT

    Between 2022 and the formation of the Isle of Man TT in 1907, there have been 155 deaths throughout the course of official races or practice runs along the Snaefell Mountain Course. However, there has been a total of 265 fatalities linked to the event in all ways. This includes rides killed during the former Manx Grand Prix and the Clubman TT series.

    There is something rather haunting about the TT organisers’ use of red flags, which are waved by race marshals when a potentially life-threatening incident has happened mid-race.

    So, why does the Isle of Man TT remain on the annual race calendar, despite its despairing fatality record? For many riders, the adrenaline rush and ‘fear factor’ of racing at the Isle of Man TT is what attracts people to the circuit. If there wasn’t an element of danger, some riders would overlook the event. That doesn’t make it right for the TT to continue, but it explains the reasons behind its ongoing popularity and the blind loyalty shown towards the event by locals and tourists alike.  Cregneash-isle-of-man-nature-sky-landscape-panoramic Source

    It's also a fortnight-long festival of racing, bringing together motorcycling enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond. It’s not just the Snaefell Mountain Course that catches the eye, there’s also a stunt team called the ‘World Famous Purple Helmets’ that are fun to watch.

    However, none of this can gloss over the fact that the Isle of Man TT is the deadliest sporting event in the world. Since 1980, there have been just two years where no-one has had the misfortune of dying along this narrow road course.

    What makes the Isle of Man TT so treacherous?

    One of the obvious dangers of the Isle of Man TT is that the races are held on normal, everyday roads. These are roads that the public use on any other day of the year. The roads aren’t just normal tarmac either, many of them are supremely narrow and winding. The end result being that there’s little margin for error, particularly for amateur riders that have never experienced these roads before.

    The Snaefell Mountain Course is described within the community as ’38 miles of terror’ and the undisputed number-one test of bikes and riders. Although the race organisers do their absolute best to provide adequate crash barriers along the course, there are areas where it’s just rock-hard brick walls and ditches for company.

    It’s not uncommon for riders to average speeds of well over 120mph around the Snaefell Mountain Course and even high speeds of 200mph. Put simply, riders put their head above the parapet in full knowledge of the dangers and potential pitfalls.

    After a tragic year for the event, its organisers have promised to “take any actions that can help improve safety” and apply these at “the earliest opportunity”. In publishing this statement, it’s clear that the event itself is by no means in jeopardy in 2023 and beyond.

    That’s unlike the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb’s decision in 2019 to suspend its races altogether following the death of rider Carlin Dunne – despite Dunne’s mother vehemently arguing that the move was not what her son would have wanted.

    It seems that despite the unavoidable dangers, the Isle of Man TT remains something of a rite of passage among the motorcycling fraternity. Although some outside of the sport will consider amateur riders to be crazy to even contemplate taking on the challenge, those with a passion for two-wheeled racing still believe in the tradition of the event, come what may.

     

     

     

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