The restoration of the Stormont Assembly is sweet information for Northern Ireland and its folks, however the 24-month break in motion means politicians face a to-do checklist piled as excessive as Everest – and consultants concern that accelerating EV infrastructure development is someplace down within the foothills.
While the variety of fast and ultra-rapid chargers in Northern Ireland has elevated fivefold previously 18 months, the nation can nonetheless declare solely to have round 100 in operation, the bulk situated within the north-east.
As of October 2023, Northern Ireland had the fewest 50kW-plus chargers within the UK, at 2.9
Here within the northern hemisphere, the winter months are effectively upon us when Christmas lastly rolls round. While there are pine bushes aplenty, nearly every thing else on our facet of the equator is unfortunately nowhere close to the colourful inexperienced it normally is the remainder of the 12 months. Combined with the dreary winter climate, it will possibly all be a bit miserable, to say the least.
We’re by no means positive whether or not that has something to do with why Kawasaki opted to place out a line of Christmas goodies within the UK in 2023. Still, it is arduous to disclaim that Kawasaki’s signature electrical lime inexperienced coloration is a little bit of welcome brightness in an in any other case uninteresting winter season.
Sure, there are Christmas bushes (each actual and synthetic), however these are a darkish, severe inexperienced. The Kawasaki inexperienced is shiny and playful, which is simply the type of temper you wish to assist elevate your spirits into a greater temper for celebrating.
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What sorts of decorations are there? For those that just like the softer facet of vacation traditions, you may discover each a Kawasaki stocking to hold by your chimney with care, and in addition an opulent inexperienced Santa-esque hat to stay in your head. Both these plush objects even have the usual Kawasaki title brand on them.
If you need one thing slightly extra enjoyable, there’s all the time the black, white, and inexperienced vacation tinsel pack. It comes with all the colours intact, in lengths of 4 meters (slightly over 13 toes) apiece.
There are additionally your commonplace ball ornaments, solely accomplished in Kawasaki colours and fabricated from plastic. If you are after particular person ornaments to hold in your tree as an alternative, you may discover three totally different hand-blown glass variations obtainable. There’s a bike, a jet ski, and an ATV, every offered individually.
I’ve saved my private favourite for final, as a result of it is so good, chances are you’ll simply wish to hold it up for year-round ornament and never depart it till the subsequent vacation. It’s a string of inexperienced Kawasaki motorcycle-shaped twinkly lights. Instead of the same old bulbs, these lights have been shaped into the form of bikes, all in that particular Kawasaki inexperienced.
Sadly for US followers, none of these things seems to be obtainable within the Kawasaki US on-line retailer. However, in case you’re within the UK, now could be your likelihood to seize it. We do not know what number of there are, nor what the longer term holds. So, if you would like any of those, you’d in all probability be effectively suggested to maneuver shortly.
With snow falling within the northern latitudes, now is a superb time to stow some traction-assist gear into your automobile for emergencies. The newest tire check video from Jonathan Benson at Tyre Reviews seems to be at chains, straps, and snow socks to suss out which is greatest, coming to the conclusion it is best to simply set up snow tires as a substitute.
Tire chains have been a staple of winter driving for many years, as they’ve clear benefits on ice. Benson exams a set of conventional tire chains and metallic cables on ice, fitted to a Honda Civic Si. Both delivered notable enhancements for stopping and beginning versus the Michelin X-Ice snow tire, they usually had been means higher than the all-seasons used on the Honda.
The different objects examined within the video aren’t almost as efficient. Benson broke a set of plastic anti-skid tie straps on the very first check, rendering them ineffective. A set of plastic “chains” that connect to the tire by way of material straps additionally did not fare nicely. The small studs within the plastic got here out simply, and whereas they had been technically higher than all-season tires on ice, their reliability is extremely doubtful. The closing merchandise is a pair of snow socks – large material slip-ons that, based on Benson, declare to be as efficient as chains. Except they weren’t. In reality, they had been nearly an identical to regular all-season tires when it comes to efficiency.
But what about snow grip? Here’s the place the snow socks truly present their price. They had been simply capable of get the front-wheel-drive Honda up two hills the place the all-season tires failed. They additionally outperformed the plastic chains, metallic chains, and the plastic anit-skid cables.
But as we alluded to at first, the Michelin X-Ice snow tires equaled or exceeded all of those units in almost each state of affairs. Only on ice did the tires quit floor, and that is one thing a set of studded snow tires can rectify.
Benson’s conclusion? If you reside in a snowy a part of the world, simply get snow tires. If, nonetheless, you encounter ultra-slick situations, the metallic cables are good to have in your trunk in a pinch. They’re moderately priced, simple to put in, and provide benefits on each snow and ice over all-season rubber.
With colder and wetter weather already making its presence felt in the majority of the northern hemisphere, it’s always a good idea to be geared up in thermal wear to keep the cold at bay. Lots of riders are starting to put their bikes into storage in time for the cold season, however, if you’re not one of them, then chances are you’re looking to restock on thermal riding gear.
Dainese, one of the most popular brands when it comes to gear, has just introduced its newest pair of gloves called the Funes. These gloves are equipped with the necessary tech to keep your hands warm and safe in the cold, while at the same time remaining lightweight and comfortable. The gloves are primarily made out of a stretchable textile fabric, and feature goat leather inserts for added durability. Meanwhile, beneath the surface, the gloves get a Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing and PrimaLoft Gold padding for extra comfort and protection.
On the technology side of the equation, the Dainese Funes feature an abrasion-resistant synthetic suede insert on the palm, as well as a Pro-Hand slider on the outside of the palm. There’s also a Pro-Tek protective shell on the knuckles, and a long cuff with a double-Velcro tightening system that can be tucked underneath the sleeve of your jacket. Thanks to all these features, the Dainese Funes gloves are PPE level 1 certified according to the EN13594 safety standard.
The Dainese Funes gloves are equipped with other features that are meant to improve convenience. For instance, it gets a Smart Touch insert on the index finger for compatibility with smartphones and other touch screen devices. There are also comfort gussets on the fingers and back of the hand to enhance range of motion – essential especially in colder weather.
When it comes to pricing and availability, the Dainese Funes Gore-Tex gloves are offered in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, and come in only one black colorway. According to Dainese’s official website, they carry a retail price of $199.95.
If you haven’t looked at the calendar recently, snow will soon be falling for us in the northern hemisphere. Heck, it’s already on the ground in some areas, and that means it’s time for the annual tire-swapping ritual from summer to winter rubber. What’s that you say? You don’t need snow tires because you have an SUV? Oh, dear.
All-wheel drive traction and more ground clearance afforded by SUVs certainly help when accelerating through snow, but that’s only 33 percent of driving. Braking and cornering most certainly matter, too. And as we’ve seen in previous articles regarding snow tires, having all-wheel drive doesn’t matter if the tires can’t grip the surface. That leads us to the latest video from Jonathan Benson at Tyre Reviews, and this one is special. The focus here is on dedicated winter tires designed specifically for the weight and handling characteristics of SUVs.
The test obviously evaluates the tires on snow, factoring in lap times along with acceleration and braking. However, the test also looks at tire performance in wet and dry conditions as well as noise, comfort, and rolling resistance. Specific tires featured in this video include:
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV
Hankook Winter i cept evo 3 X
Leao Winter Defender UHP
Maxxis Premitra Snow WP6 SUV
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV
Nokian Snowproof 2 SUV
Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2
If you’ve seen our features on Benson’s video before, you know just how insanely thorough he gets. That tenacity is needed for this test, which he says is one of the closest in terms of results that he’s ever conducted. Using a Volkswagen Tiguan R in all the scenarios and going strictly by the numbers, he determined that the Continental WinterContact TS 870 P was the best tire. It scored well in all categories save for hydroplaning, where it had average performance. Rolling resistance was exceptional, making it a strong choice for EV owners seeking something with good efficiency.
However, Benson’s test goes far beyond the numbers to suss out more subjective aspects that might make a difference to tire shoppers. Among other things, he points out that the Michelin was the best in terms of snow handling and near the top everywhere else, save for rolling resistance where it performed quite badly, relegating it to the number two spot behind Continental. He also highlights characteristics such as understeer and oversteer throughout the brands. In that respect, the Nokian (which was fourth in points) was actually his personal favorite for its neutral, all-around performance.
As always, we recommend jumping into the video to catch all the details of this test. And as the snow starts to fly, stay safe out there.
With the weather transitioning to colder and wetter conditions in many parts of the northern hemisphere, motorcyclists are updating their wardrobes to adapt to the changing weather. This means saying goodbye to lightweight mesh gear and hello to thicker, insulated apparel. European gear distributor XLMoto introduces the Course Commuter jacket, designed specifically for urban riders who brave uncertain weather conditions.
The Course Commuter jacket claims to be versatile and suitable for all weather conditions, although its design suggests that it excels during the mid-season period and in rainy weather. It is primarily made from textile fabrics, with a polyester canvas and a laminated membrane on the outside, making it both waterproof and breathable. The jacket also features additional ventilation zips on the chest and back. When the temperature drops, you can install the included thermal liner on the inside to keep warm and comfortable. The inner liner resembles a down jacket and can even be worn independently off the bike.
In terms of protective features, the Course Commuter jacket is classified as a Class A certified jacket according to the EN17092-4:2020 standard. It achieves this certification with level 1 protectors on the elbows and shoulders, as well as a built-in pocket for an optional back protector. Additionally, the polyester canvas on the outside offers abrasion resistance.
For comfort, the jacket features multiple straps and snaps for adjustment, ensuring a snug fit and minimizing wind buffeting at higher speeds. It also comes with multiple pockets, including two exterior pockets and two interior ones. Additionally, the jacket has a zipper at the back that allows for compatibility with pants, providing a more secure fit.
The new Course Commuter jacket is now available for purchase on XLMoto’s online retail platform. It comes in two colors: khaki and black, allowing for easy coordination with your bike and other gear. The jacket is available in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, and it has a suggested retail price of 119.99 Euros.
If you live in the upper portions of the Northern Hemisphere, snow could start falling in a matter of weeks or maybe a few months. This means it’s the perfect time to start considering a set of winter tires for your vehicle. Jonathan Benson from Tyre Reviews is here to evaluate the best cold-weather rubber for the 2023-2024 season.
Benson selects 11 winter tires. Plus, he chooses an all-season and summer design to show how much of a difference there is from using cold-weather-specific rubber. All of them are size 225/45 R18, and he uses a BMW 3 Series as the evaluation vehicle.
He evaluates the:
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2
Hankook Winter i*Cept Evo 3
Vredestein Wintrac Pro
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
Kumho Winter Craft WP52
Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
Giti GitiWinterW2
Leao Winter Defender UHP
Falken Eurowinter HS02 Pro
The all-season tire is the Hankook Kineregy 4S2, and the summer tire is the Hankook Ventus Prime 4.
Benson puts the tires through a variety of evaluations. He starts by testing on a snow-covered circuit. The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 clocks the quickest time of 84.26 seconds, and the Falken Eurowinter HS02 Pro is the slowest at 90.66 seconds. The Hankook all-season rubber gets the 3 Series around the course in 87.12 seconds. The Ventus Prime 4 summer tire gives the BMW a lap time of 122.18 seconds.
Benson also singles out the Hankook Winter i*Cept Evo 3 for providing the most feedback through the steering wheel and giving the driver confidence when driving on the snow.
Driving in the winter is about more than just snow. Once the plow drivers get their work done, the streets might just be wet. Benson also evaluates the tires on a soaked circuit. The Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 is the winner by clocking a time of 56.33 seconds. The second-place Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 does a lap in 57.53 seconds – over a second slower.
At the end of the video, Benson ranks all 11 tires from worst to best. There’s a tie for the winner.
As winter approaches, Goodyear is gearing up by unveiling a new addition to its Wrangler tire lineup. The upgraded version of the DuraTrac series, called DuraTrac RT, is designed for light trucks and SUVs. This all-season, all-terrain tire strikes a balance between durability and off-road grip while maintaining on-road performance. Notably, Goodyear emphasizes the snow grip capabilities of this tire, which is certified with both the Mud and Snow (M+S) rating and the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake certification (3PMSF) that meets the requirements for severe snow use in the US and Europe.
Compared to the standard DuraTrac, the DuraTrac RT features a less aggressive tread pattern, although it still boasts durability for off-road use. The tire incorporates Kevlar protection and a three-ply sidewall to resist punctures and tears. It comes with a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty and is available in 42 different sizes. The DuraTrac RT is compatible with rim sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches, with the exception of 19-inch wheels which are not offered.
Michiel Kramer, director of product marketing at Goodyear, said, “From summer off-roading to snowy on-road drives, the new Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT provides drivers with the power and versatility to take them where they want to go. Engineered with a proven tread pattern featuring more biting edges for enhanced grip, this versatile tire can help drivers take on any road or trail in any weather condition – rain, snow, or shine.”
This is Goodyear’s second recent tire design announcement. The Wrangler Boulder MT was unveiled on September 21, featuring an off-road-focused tread pattern designed for extreme use. It serves as Goodyear’s flagship tire for trucks and SUVs.
As temperatures begin to drop in many parts of the northern hemisphere, some riders choose to store their bikes for the season. However, there are others who continue to ride throughout the winter, as long as it’s safe to do so. Fortunately, advancements in technology have given us riding gear that not only protects us but also keeps us warm and dry in the coldest of weather. Dainese has recently released their new parka, the Duomo Absoluteshell Pro, which combines style with safety features.
The Duomo Absoluteshell Pro parka is made from an abrasion-resistant synthetic fabric, providing protection from the hood to the tailcoat bottom. It includes Pro-Armor protectors on the shoulder and elbows, which are EN1621-1-certified. The jacket is also equipped with a pocket for a standard back protector, meeting Class A PPE certification according to the EN17092-4:2020 standard.
In addition to safety, the Duomo parka is designed to shield riders from various weather conditions. It utilizes Dainese’s Absoluteshell Pro technology, featuring a laminated membrane with fast-drying capabilities and waterproof properties. The jacket also comes with a removable thermal lining that can be used independently.
The Duomo parka offers multiple adjustment points including the collar, cuffs, and waist, ensuring a secure fit. It also features five front pockets, two of which are waterproof, as well as pockets on the arm and inside the jacket and thermal lining. The parka is available in two colors, Black and Khaki, and comes in sizes ranging from 44 to 62. The price is set at $559.95 USD, as stated on Dainese’s official website.
As temperatures cool down in the northern hemisphere, many riders are looking for gear that can handle the challenges of cold weather. German gear and equipment specialist, Held, offers sporty riders a new mid-season option with the Sambia Pro gloves.
The Held Sambia Pro gloves have a sport-touring aesthetic and are designed with a combination of materials to provide versatility for mid-season riding. The palm is made of kangaroo leather, while the back of the hand is constructed with a blend of Spandex and leather. This combination offers comfort, mobility, and better insulation to cope with changing weather conditions. The gloves also feature ventilated inserts for breathability during warm temperatures.
Safety is a priority in the design of the Held Sambia Pro gloves. They come with reinforced flat seams for durability, perforated fingers and palms for exceptional abrasion resistance, and a protective plastic shell for the knuckles. The palm is strengthened with SuperFabric and Armaprotec, and the gloves have a wrist slider for added protection. The Sambia Pro gloves are PPE certified according to the EN 15954:2015 standard.
In addition to safety features, the Held Sambia Pro gloves offer convenient details such as a screen wiper on the index finger for improved visibility in challenging weather. They also have tactile inserts on the thumb and index finger, allowing riders to use touchscreen devices without removing the gloves. A Velcro tightening cuff ensures a secure fit. The gloves are available in two color options, black and gray, and come in a range of sizes from 7 to 12.
The Held Sambia Pro gloves are priced at $139.99 USD, striking a balance between affordability and quality. They are an appealing choice for motorcycle enthusiasts who seek both style and functionality in their gear.
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