Jeremy McGrath was headed to Italy for the FIM Vintage World Cup held on the famed Maggiora MX Park so he once more group up with bike builder Tim Sharp (Sharp Prepped Bike Building Services) on this 2005 Kawasaki KX250 venture. Sharp is the individual that constructed McGrath’s Championship Yamaha YZ250 we featured earlier this 12 months. If you wish to see extra on that YZ250 construct hit the unique hyperlink on the backside of this submit.
This Sharp Prepped Kawasaki KX250 will keep in Italy with the proprietor of the Maggiora MX Park after the occasion. McGrath labored with trade main firms like Maxxis Tires, Dubya USA, Showa, Xtrig, ARMA, Renthal, Boyesen and Pro Circuit.
The Xtrig clamps and fork arrange is immediately off McGrath’s 2022 KX450. If you look shut you possibly can see the Trick Engineering billet aluminum steering cease.
Boyesen outer case covers and Supercooler have been used on this construct . That Pro Circuit pipe is a murals!
The OG of aftermarket pegs, IMS Pro Series pegs with the polished sides.
We can stare at this Pro Circuit one-off exhaust system all day lengthy!
Specialty coating on the decrease fork tubes, Dubya USA constructed wheels that includes Kite hubs, DID Dirt Star rims and wrapped in Maxxis MX ST tires.
The engine was fully rebuilt proper earlier than the bike was bought by McGrath. You can see merchandise from Boyesen, Lightspeed and Mototassinari have been additionally used on this construct.
Lightspeed carbon fiber merchandise have been round and been commonplace challenge on manufacturing unit bikes because the late ’90s.
Thanks to the crew at Pro Circuit the KX250 is now on its technique to Italy.
Look for a whole story on this machine in an upcoming printed challenge of the journal.
2-STROKE BEHIND THE BUILD
If you’re a fan of Supercross and motocross and over the age of 25, you may keep in mind watching Jeremy McGrath within the late ’90s and 2000 aboard his Chaparral Motorsports-supported Yamaha YZ250 dominating SX principal occasions throughout the nation. This group made historical past as the primary non-factory group within the sport to win a premier-class Supercross championship. We simply assumed that McGrath had not less than one in all these championship-winning Yamahas in his assortment. After all, he has memorabilia from nearly each period of his profession. However, we have been shocked to seek out out this was not the case.
Munich. What a begin to 2024 at BMW Park. The first dwelling sport of the brand new yr not solely produced an exciting EuroLeague match between FC Bayern München Basketball and Real Madrid, which ended 71:92, but additionally noticed each groups placed on an impressive show of dunking. The 6,500 sturdy crowd in Munich on Tuesday night have been handled to a complete of seven dunks, elevating an extra 7,000 euros for the “Dunks for Tomorrow” initiative.
BMW München and FC Bayern München Basketball launched the joint marketing campaign at first of the season. Each time the Munich-based workforce scores a slam dunk at a house sport, BMW donates 1,000 euros to the SOS-Kinderdorf e.V. charity. An spectacular 60,000 euros had already been raised this fashion by the flip of the yr.
“We are pleased to be supporting SOS-Kinderdorf’s commitment to educational equality and equal opportunity with this initiative,” stated Bernd Döpke, head of BMW München. “In the first few months, we have raised a remarkable amount, which will help give many children and young people better prospects. We want to continue to help and have hit the ground running in the new year. The seven dunks scored by the two top teams is a promising start to the remainder of the season.”
The battle between FC Bayern Munich Basketball and Real Madrid was additionally an enormous occasion for the BMW Group. The 20th match day of the EuroLeague noticed two golf equipment with worldwide enchantment, each of whom work along with the corporate, face off at BMW Park. As properly because the partnership with the Munich-based membership, which was launched in July 2023, BMW Spain has additionally been Sustainability Partner of Real Madrid since 2022 and provides all of the gamers and administration groups from the highest basketball and soccer groups with fully-electric vehicles. With this in thoughts, BMW not solely made a donation for the dunks scored by FC Bayern München Basketball on the EuroLeague thriller, but additionally for every dunk by the defending champions and table-toppers from Spain.
With this efficiency, Serge Ibaka, Walter Tavares and their team-mates took the full quantity raised for “Dunks for Tomorrow” to 67,000 euros. SOS-Kinderdorf e.V. makes use of the cash to assist kids and younger folks from underprivileged households in many various methods all through their faculty lives. SOS-Kinderdorf is current in faculties and helps with on a regular basis life – for instance, with faculty social work, afternoon care and social group tasks, so as to break the cycle of poverty and restricted alternatives.
+++ First competitive match at BMW Park on high-tech, glass video sports floor +++ Every dunk counts for SOS-Kinderdorf and promotes educational equality +++ 3,000 euro raised at first home match at BMW Park +++
Munich. The partnership between BMW Munich and FC Bayern Munich Basketball kicked off with a bang on Friday evening. The opening round of the season took place at BMW Park, where an official league match was played for the first time on a state-of-the-art glass video sports floor, presented by BMW. In addition to this groundbreaking event, the joint initiative called ‘Dunks for Tomorrow’ was launched. Throughout the season, BMW will donate 1,000 euros to SOS-Kinderdorf e.V. for every dunk scored by an FC Bayern Munich basketball player at BMW Park. The team, which includes world champions Andreas Obst and Isaac Bonga, as well as NBA champion Serge Ibaka, won their opening match in the Basketball Bundesliga with a score of 96:87 and made three dunks, raising the first 3,000 euros for the cause.
“The social commitment and contribution to better prospects for the future are important elements of our partnership with FC Bayern Munich Basketball. With our ‘Dunks for Tomorrow’ initiative, we are supporting SOS-Kinderdorf and its commitment to educational equality and equal opportunity throughout the entire season,” said Bernd Döpke, head of BMW Munich. “Every dunk now has a double impact – on the scoreboard and for this good cause. We are eagerly looking forward to a fantastic and successful season in every aspect.”
Marko Pesic, CEO of FC Bayern Munich Basketball GmbH, added, “BMW has truly delivered an outstanding experience as the presenter of our first match – from the spectacular glass floor for the fans to the magnificent dunk campaign in support of SOS-Kinderdorf e.V. and the community. The social aspect is a crucial foundation of our new partnership, and this campaign is perfect, especially with the addition of dunk specialist Serge Ibaka. This incredible appeal will undoubtedly motivate our players to slam dunk as frequently as possible.”
SOS-Kinderdorf e.V. is a charity that aims to break the cycle of poverty and limited opportunities by supporting children and young people from underprivileged families in various ways throughout their school lives. The organization provides services such as school social work, afternoon care, and social group projects to create a comfortable learning environment and offer additional support to children in need.
“Young people deserve the best possible opportunities for development to shape their own futures. This is a core belief of SOS-Kinderdorf. That is why we encourage and support young people in all aspects of their lives. For almost seventy years, we have been committed to helping them in Germany and around the world. The ‘Dunks for Tomorrow’ campaign launched by BMW and FC Bayern Munich Basketball will help us achieve our goals in a generous and sustainable manner. We are grateful to have strong partners like BMW and FC Bayern Munich Basketball by our side and are excited for an eventful season,” said Anna Pönisch, Head of Marketing at SOS-Kinderdorf e.V.
On average, drivers are willing to park almost one mile away – or a 20 minute walk – from their destination to avoid parallel parking
TV personality Jamie Laing says he’ll avoid parallel parking ‘at all costs’ as nearly half (44%) of motorists admit to being fearful of the parking manoeuvre
Men twice as confident at parallel parking compared to women
UK’s best and worst regions for parallel parking revealed: Yorkshire and Humber top the list, Londoners come last
In total, Brits fork out over £1.5 billion due to parking prangs
FIAT partners with Driving School TV to launch the Parallel Parking Guide, featuring Jamie Laing, [https://www.fiat.co.uk/news/parallel-parking] to help drivers master the skill
London, 26 September 2023: Millions of motorists get so flustered at the prospect of parallel parking they’d rather park nearly a mile away from their chosen destination than attempt the manoeuvre.
Dubbed ‘parallelophobia’, almost half of drivers (44%) say they are fearful of parallel parking.
Those who tend to steer clear include TV star and learner driver Jamie Laing, who admits he will avoid attempting a parallel park ‘at all costs’.
A survey of 2,000 motorists, commissioned by FIAT, has lifted the lid on how Brits feel about the dreaded parking procedure and uncovered the financial impact of poor parking skills.
On average, drivers spend £158 on repairs over their lifetime thanks to parking gone wrong, equating to a staggering £1.5 billion*.
The leading reasons Brits fear parallel parking include blocking the road and keeping other drivers waiting (40%), worrying about getting too close to and damaging other cars (37%), fear of being embarrassed and pressured by people watching (36%), worrying about taking too long to park (30%) and not understanding the yellow lines (23%).
The research also found that on average, drivers are willing to park 0.8 miles away (a 20 minute walk) so they don’t have to parallel park.
Given the troubles motorists seem to face with parallel parking, FIAT has partnered with Driving School TV – a popular YouTube channel fronted by qualified driving instructor Francis Noakes, to launch the Fiat Parallel Parking Guide[SL1] .
As part of the guide, FIAT recruited celebrity Jamie Laing to face ‘parallelophobia’ head-on in an all-electric FIAT 500e, as he was taught how to parallel park. Jamie Laing also attempted the world record for the tightest parallel park, previously achieved in a FIAT 500, at just 7.5cm longer than the length of the car.
“Learning to drive has been like navigating through a maze of frustration, and parallel parking? Don’t even get me started. It’s my least favourite manoeuvre to do. It makes my palms sweat. I swear
whenever I attempt one my car’s magnetically drawn to the kerb. It’s a skill I’ve just never quite mastered and I will avoid it at all costs.
“I stopped learning to drive a little while ago but after finally passing my theory test having booked around 70 tests, and having to renew my provisional licence as it had expired after 10 years, I’m back learning to drive in a Fiat 500 electric with Francis Noakes from Driving School TV. This guy has already shown me some secret magic trick that suddenly made parallel parking easier and, dare I say, fun to learn – perhaps it’s that the 500e is small and compact to park. He also unofficially helped me match a world record, sort of.
FIAT’s research also revealed drivers spend an average of four and a half hours a year attempting to parallel park** – equating to eight days of their life***.
Parallel parking makes 45% of Brits feel stressed, while 41% have relied on a stranger to help them do it. 67% have driven past a potential space rather than attempt the idea of a parallel park once or multiple times. On average, drivers will attempt a parallel park four times before parking successfully.
Men were twice as confident (32% men very confident vs 16% women very confident), yet there appeared to be very little difference in actual competence with men taking equally as long to complete a parallel park as women (approx. 1.5 minutes).
For those that do manage to parallel park successfully, 31% leave feeling smug, 30% admire their work, 18% brag about it on social media and 17% even do a happy dance.
The FIAT Parallel Parking Index also determined the regions that struggle the most and least with the parallel park. FIAT scored drivers by region on the following factors; average distance from destination drivers are willing to park, average time taken to successfully complete a parallel park, percentage of drivers that are confident, fearful and stressed about the parking manoeuvre, as well as how much money has been spent on fixing their cars as a result of a parallel parking shunt.
The most competent parallel parkers were drivers from the North East. While drivers from London, Scotland and the North West occupied the bottom three spots.
Most notably, Londoners were open to parking a staggering 1.2 miles away from their destination – the equivalent distance of walking between the London Eye and Buckingham Palace: around a 24-minute journey.
On the flip side, drivers from Yorkshire and the Humber weren’t willing to park any further than 0.4 miles (less than 10 minute walk) from their intended destination.
Meanwhile, Londoners have forked out £207 on parking prangs, while those in Yorkshire and the Humber have spent nearly £100 less (£129.50) on average.
AVERAGE DISTANCE FROM DESTINATION DRIVERS ARE WILLING TO PARK – MILES (WALKING TIME)
AVERAGE TIME TAKEN TO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE A PARALLEL PARK (MINUTES)
AVERAGE OF MOST NUMBER OF TIMES ITS TAKEN TO SUCCESSFULLY PARALLEL PARK
PERCENTAGE OF DRIVERS THAT ARE CONFIDENT OR VERY CONFIDENT PARALLEL PARKING
PERCENTAGE OF DRIVERS FEARFUL OF PARALLEL PARKING (STRONGLY AGREE / SOMEWHAT AGREE)
PERCENTAGE OF DRIVERS STRESSED OF PARALLEL PARKING (STRONGLY AGREE / SOMEWHAT AGREE)
TOTAL SCORE
(LOW = MOST COMPETENT, HIGH = LEAST COMPETENT)
Yorkshire and the Humber
0.4 (8 minutes)
1.1
3.2
63%
36
38
6.2
North East
0.5 (10 minutes)
1.2
3.3
55%
31
31
5.9
Northern Ireland
0.7 (14 minutes)
1.3
3.4
50%
38
38
6.6
South East
0.7 (14 minutes)
1.1
3.6
55%
40
43
6.8
East Midlands
0.5 (10 minutes)
1.5
3.5
71%
48
48
7.6
West Midlands
1.1 (22 minutes)
1.9
5.1
35%
28
29
7.3
South West
0.9 (18 minutes)
1.7
4.7
57%
33
34
7.5
North West
0.8 (16 minutes)
1.4
3.6
68%
56
59
8.4
East Anglia
0.6 (12 minutes)
1.4
3.6
53%
43
44
7.0
Scotland
0.8 (16 minutes)
1.1
4.7
69%
55
60
8.5
Wales
0.9 (18 minutes)
1.8
3.9
55%
46
48
8.1
London
1.2 (24 minutes)
1.9
4.6
63%
50
53
9.3
Damien Dally, FIAT UK Managing Director, said: “It’s a well-known fact that cars have grown in size in recent years, which can only add to the additional stress of parallel parking caused by things like fear of holding up traffic, or bumping into and damaging another car.
“The all-electric Fiat 500e is the ultimate city car, having won countless industry awards. It’s the perfect compact car to get around and park in crowded cities or busy urban environments, alleviating the fears of tricky manoeuvres for drivers.
“In addition, the 500e is packed full of technology that helps drivers park more easily, from park assist, to blind-spot monitoring and rear-view camera. But not every driver is able to benefit from the size and capabilities of a 500e when it comes to parking, which is why we’re hoping our parking guide will help to reduce ‘parallelophobia’ impacting millions of Brits.”
Audi has recently unveiled its new Vehicle Safety Center at its technology park in Ingolstadt, Germany. This state-of-the-art facility will enable the automaker to conduct a variety of crash tests before introducing new car models to the market.
The construction of the facility took three years and cost approximately 100 million euros ($107 million). It currently employs around 100 staff members. Audi has designed the center to meet not only today’s crash standards but also future requirements that may arise in different markets.
+++ BMW Park written proudly over the main entrance +++ Naming forms part of the mobility partnership between BMW Munich and FC Bayern Munich Basketball GmbH +++ Basketball fans can visit BMW Park for the first time on 16th and 17th September +++
Munich. The mobility partnership between BMW Munich and FC Bayern Munich Basketball GmbH, which started in July, is now prominently displayed at the home arena of the Bundesliga club. On Friday, the new title of BMW Park was prominently written across the main entrance to the Rudi-Sedlmayer-Halle in Munich Westpark, which was constructed in 1972.
FC Bayern Munich Basketball will have its first matches at BMW Park on September 16th and 17th, 2023 as part of an exclusive pre-season tournament called the “MagentaSport Cup”. This tournament features only EuroLeague teams and will see the German cup winners play against Virtus Bologna (ITA) on Saturday. The second semi-final will feature Alba Berlin (GER) versus Red Star Belgrade (SRB). The match for third place and the final will take place on Sunday. The first BBL home match at BMW Park is scheduled for September 29th, 2023 against Mitteldeutscher Basketball Club.
In addition to the on-court collaboration, BMW Munich will be providing fully electric vehicles for the players and coaching staff as part of their long-term partnership with FC Bayern Munich Basketball GmbH. The two partners will also collaborate on social responsibility and non-profit projects off the court.
Suite of available convenience and technology features
Starting MSRP of $49,950
Available by the end of 2023
PLANO, Texas (August 8, 2023) – The 2024 Lexus RX builds upon the refined features introduced in the fifth generation RX in 2023. Taking into consideration customer feedback, the 2024 RX enhances the available technology and convenience features to improve the driving and in-cabin experience. The highly anticipated 2024 RX 450h+ Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicle is also added to complete the electrified lineup.
For 2024, two new exterior colors, Cloudburst Gray and Copper Crest, are added to the available options on select grades. The 2024 RX is expected to be available by the end of 2023.
The 2024 RX is offered in six grades: Standard, Premium, Premium+, Luxury, F SPORT Handling, and F SPORT Performance.
The GA-K Platform Difference
The 2024 RX is built on the GA-K platform, which is designed to be lighter than the previous generation’s platform. With a lower center of gravity achieved through the use of stronger metals, innovative adhesives, and welds, the 2024 RX promises excellent stability and enhanced handling. The platform’s rear section features a multi-link suspension design, attached to a rigid high-torsion rear body frame for optimal suspension input and consistent performance.
The GA-K platform provides ample legroom for rear passengers and generous cargo space. Additionally, it features a low back door trim for easy loading.
A Powertrain for Everyone
The 2024 RX offers a range of powertrain options to suit different preferences and needs:
RX 350 (FWD/AWD): Powered by a 275-hp turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with a center injection system, lightweight pistons, and a continuously variable capacity oil pump. It is equipped with an eight-speed Direct Shift-8AT and offers a front-to-rear driving force distribution for optimal performance.
RX 350h (AWD): A hybrid motor combined with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine, paired with a high-output, low-resistance nickel-metal hydride battery. It offers 246 total system horsepower and is available with E-Four, Lexus’ all-wheel drive system.
RX 450h+ (AWD): Powered by a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, the RX 450h+ hybrid system delivers luxury performance and a manufacturer-estimated combined 83 MPGe rating. It offers a 35-mile driving range on electric power alone.
RX 500h F SPORT Performance AWD: Equipped with a high-performance hybrid system that combines a 271-hp 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with an integrated Power Control Unit and electric motor. It offers a total output of 366 hp and 406 lb.-ft. of torque.
Suspension
The 2024 RX features MacPherson front struts for sharp turn-in and confident handling. The rear suspension is a five-arm multi-link setup, which maximizes cabin space and provides a comfortable ride. The available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) offers further control and stability by adjusting the damping force based on driving conditions.
Braking and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS)
The braking system of the 2024 RX includes two-piston calipers for smooth speed control. For F SPORT Handling and F SPORT Performance grades, six-piston aluminum calipers and larger front rotors enhance braking performance. The F SPORT Performance grade also features Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS), which improves maneuverability at different speeds by coordinating rear wheel movements.
Bold, Alluring Design
Exterior Features
The 2024 RX showcases a strong and dynamic design. Its spindle body grille, optimized proportions, and sleek lines convey a sense of athleticism and sophistication. Enhanced aerodynamics contribute to improved handling, and the available 19- or 21-inch wheels add a touch of elegance. At the rear, the single lens taillamp emphasizes the wide and low silhouette of the RX.
Interior Features
The interior of the 2024 RX features a driver-focused cockpit design that prioritizes ease of use and accessibility. Essential controls and information are intuitively placed within the driver’s reach. The spacious cabin offers convenient storage options, including a front cubby with a wireless charging pad and USB connection. The rear seats provide comfort and convenience with power folding capabilities, USB Type-C outlets, and optional cooling and heating functions.
Technology and Convenience Features
The 2024 RX comes with a range of technology and convenience features, including:
Lexus Interface with 14-inch touchscreen
Cloud Navigation
Intelligent Assistant
Available Digital Key
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ Compatibility
Remote Connect
Safety Connect
Service Connect
Head-Up Display
Mark Levinson® Surround Sound
Advanced Park with Remote Park
Digital Latch with Safe Exit Assist
Traffic Jam Assist
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0
The 2024 RX is equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes features such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Proactive Driving Assist, Road Sign Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Intelligent High Beam, and All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Management. The system provides additional safety and convenience, with an available driver monitor system.
The 2024 Lexus RX offers a combination of refined design, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features to provide a superior driving experience.
Scratches on your car can be frustrating, whether they’re caused by someone in a parking lot, a zipper scraping against the door, or tight driving on a narrow road. But you don’t have to rush to a body shop for repairs. There are plenty of products available that you can use at home to remove scratches effectively.
In this article, we’ll be looking at the best car scratch removers on the market. Some are specifically designed to remove scratches, while others are polishes that also claim to remove scratches. We tested these products on various types of scratches, from small and barely noticeable ones to larger and deeper ones caused by a tree branch. We evaluated how well they performed and considered price as a factor.
BEST BUY: Meguiar’s Ultimate Compound Color & Clarity Restorer
Meguiar’s Ultimate Compound is actually a polish, but it does an excellent job of removing scratches, swirls, and blemishes. It managed to almost completely remove a noticeable scratch caused by a tree branch. It also worked very well on smaller and medium scratches. In terms of price, it falls in the middle range, making it great value for money. This versatile and useful product is not just a scratch remover but also a great polish. It’s easy to apply, gives a lovely finish when buffed, and lasts for a few weeks.
The AutoGlym Scratch Removal Complete Kit includes everything you need to remove scratches without having to buy any additional products. The kit contains a 100ml Scratch Remover, 100ml Super Resin Polish, a Hi-Tech finishing cloth, and a scratch removal applicator. This kit would make a good present for friends or family, although they might not appreciate the sentiment behind it. We found that it helped reduce the visibility of larger scuffs, but due to the size of the products, it may not be suitable for massive scratches. However, it worked very well for spot-treating smaller scratches. For a great shine, finish off with the Super Resin Polish.
Jeep is joining in the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the blockbuster film Jurassic Park by offering a limited-run sticker package inspired by the Wrangler YJ Sahara that appeared in the movie. The sticker package is available in two versions, with only 100 units produced for each version. The first package is priced at $550 and includes various graphics for doors, hood, swing gate handle, fender vents, and shifter insert. The second package, priced at $650, includes everything in the first package plus a textured Grassy Island transfer case shifter insert. These sticker packs are compatible with the Jeep Wrangler, Wrangler 4xe, and Gladiator models. However, the swing gate handle graphics are not available for the Gladiator. Interested buyers can purchase these sticker packs from Jeep Graphic Studio.
In addition to the sticker package, Jeep has recently unveiled a redesigned Wrangler for the 2024 model year, as it faces competition from the Ford Bronco. The new Wrangler features a smaller grille, improved engine cooling, and the option of an 8,000-pound factory-installed Warn winch. Despite the competition, Wrangler sales are currently surpassing Bronco sales. The redesigned Wrangler is equipped with a 12.3-inch center touchscreen and the latest Uconnect 5 system across all trim levels. The dashboard has been redesigned to accommodate the larger screen. The powertrain lineup remains unchanged.
Furthermore, the updates on the Wrangler will also be applied to the Gladiator for the 2024 model year. Spy photos have revealed the new face and updated interior of the Gladiator, and Jeep is expected to officially unveil the updated model before the end of the year.
A scooter is brilliant for getting around town easily and cheaply: super nimble, park anywhere, easy to ride, sips gas and extremely practical. But, take them out of town, and they are simply too slow to be any good at covering longer distances.
That’s where the maxi scooter comes into its own: all the practicality of a scooter but with more power and comfort, better chassis and suspension dynamics, better rider aids, excellent weather protection, under seat storage, and longer wheelbases for added stability. They also have twist-and-go automatic transmissions that can have some of the larger-engined models give sports bike a good run for their money in the light-to-light drag races. Some even have three wheels for even more confidence-inspiring grip on wet or loose surfaces. Here’s our pick of the ten best maxi scooters.
Updated August 2023: Scooter manufacturers continue to strive to bring us one option after the other that is comfortable for everyday use as well as have some of the latest tech and features on board. Each year, there are significant improvements made to the existing models. To keep you up to speed on all the latest developments, this article has been updated with new information and a comprehensive list of pros and cons for each scooter.
With a parallel twin engine producing a healthy 55 horsepower, coupled to a CVT transmission, the Suzuki Burgman 650 has all the performance you could need with a whole dose of luxury tech: ABS, electric folding mirrors and adjustable screen, heated grips and seat, an immobiliser, not to mention two power modes.
It’s big, but that means excellent comfort for two (there are even grab rails for the pillion) and equally good weather protection, combined with a cavernous under seat storage area which can be supplemented by a top box. It’s not especially light at 610 pounds but as that weight is worn low down, it’s not too much of a problem. 59 MPG is also excellent, and with a gas tank capacity of nearly four gallons, it’s great for touring.
Pros
Comfortable riding ergonomics
10+ gals of under seat storage
Low seat height
Cons
May feel a bit too heavy
Comes with a hefty price tag
It’s tough to get one these days
9Yamaha TMAX
Yamaha
Perhaps the best-known of all the maxi scooters, the Yamaha TMAX was the model that first convinced a lot of people that such a motorcycle could combine practicality with performance and fun. The 530cc parallel twin engine pushes out 45 horsepower which might be less than the Suzuki Burgman but, then again, it does weigh 170 pounds less, which is not to be sniffed at.
The chassis frame is aluminum which helps with the weight reduction and also adds stiffness, although the design does reduce rider floorboard size slightly. There’s cruise control, heated seating grips, traction control and an electrically adjustable screen. The center stand can be locked in the ‘open’ position which is a great theft deterrent and storage is adequate, although a top box can be fitted. Your pillion passenger will never complain about comfort, and as a way of adding sportiness to practicality, the TMAX is hard to beat.
Pros
Oozes of comfort
Significantly lighter than most maxi scooters
Great wind protection
Cons
Limited storage space
Expensive
Rider floorboard is a tad bit narrow
8Honda X-ADV
Honda
Take one Honda NC750X motorcycle in maxi-scooter form, and equip it with wire wheels, taller suspension and dual-purpose tires and here you have something totally unique: The Honda X-ADV, an off-road capable maxi scooter and that’s pretty unique. Another unique feature is Honda’s well-developed dual clutch transmission which is a step up from the CVT transmissions of every other scooter on this list. The 745cc parallel twin produces 58 horsepower and a 520 pound all-in weight is pretty much par for the course. Traction control, ABS, a TFT dash, excellent storage and power modes make this one o the more interesting choices in the maxi scooter class.
The Piaggio MP3 is by no means the only three-wheeler maxi scooter, but it is one of the better examples of leaning three-wheeler technology. While adding an extra wheel, hub, disc brake and caliper, not to mention all the sophisticated suspension components that allow the wheels to remain in contact with the road while allowing the bike to lean in corners, adds weight. It also increases safety by an appreciable amount by increasing front end grip, braking power and stability.
The suspension can be locked in the upright position, meaning you don’t have to put your feet down when stopped or worry about the side stand when you park it. Comfort and wind protection is on a par with the rest although the 492cc single cylinder engine, with 40 horsepower, does have to work quite hard to push along 538 pounds.
Pros
Adjustable, lockable suspension
Safer than a convention two-wheeler
The presence of a reverse gear
Cons
You do feel its 538-pound weight
The lighting is not fully LED
High maintenance costs
6BMW C 650 GT
BMW
Typical for BMW, when they do something, they do it extremely well, if not extremely cheaply! The 647 twin-cylinder engine produces a class-leading 60 horsepower, while the chassis is a mixture of steel tubing and cast aluminum sections, making an extremely stiff structure while being light, although the overall weight is still 575 pounds. This is reflected in BMW’s typically excellent build quality, and the use of high-grade materials and the C 650 GT still manages to return 61 MPG from its 4.2 gallon gas tank.
ABS, traction control, twin front discs, power sockets in the front cubbyhole, and illuminated under seat storage which is large enough for a short weekend away or two full-face helmets. As is common with BMW, the accessories range is huge, but you’ll bump up the price significantly equipping it to the standard of other bikes on this list.
Pros
A good range of after-sales accessories
Great, functional side-view mirrors
Premium build quality
Cons
Expensive
High maintenance cost
There’s a considerable CVT “wind-up” until the 45 mph mark
5BMW C 400 X
BMW
While we’re with BMW, we can’t ignore the C 400 X, a smaller-engined version of the C650, which is trying to ape the Honda X-ADV in having slightly chunkier, go-anywhere looks. The 400cc single-cylinder engine produces 34 horsepower, which seems a little breathless for the 450-pound weight, but the upside is a claimed 80 MPG, with a tank capacity of 3.4 gallons.
There are a few 400cc maxi scooters around but the C 400 X stands out by having ABS and traction control, LED lighting, phone connectivity and a charging socket in the glove box. Under seat storage is expandable to take a helmet, which has to be clipped back up to ride away, with a locking system that prevents the bike from being ridden while it is down.
Pros
Comfortable, plush seat
Forward-mounted foot pegs
ABS and traction control for a sub-400cc scooter is a rarity
Cons
Power to weight ratio isn’t great
High maintenance cost
For a 400cc, it sure is pricey
4Yamaha Tricity 300
All the benefits of three wheels, as with the Piaggio MP3 500, but giving greater gas mileage. The 292cc single cylinder engine of the Tricity 300 produces 28 horsepower, which isn’t great for the 527 pound weight, but it does achieve 75 MPG and has a top speed of 90 mph. Practicality, weather protection and riding security are the main features, although it does lose out on the rider aids that mark out the larger-engined models on this list. It’s on the borderline of being able to tackle longer journeys and would be a bit breathless two-up, but it is a practical and safe scooter, that is larger than most small-displacement scooters.
Kymco is largely known for its small-displacement scooters but the AK550 will force people to think again. The 550cc parallel-twin engine produces 53 horsepower, the chassis is aluminum and the suspension and braking components wouldn’t be out of place on a sports bike: upside-down forks and Brembo four-piston calipers.
At nearly 500 pounds it’s not overly light but that just adds to the secure, planted feel of the bike. Handling is dynamic and fun, and the weather protection from the slick bodywork slightly less than on, say, the Suzuki Burgman, as is the under seat storage, but the compensation comes in the form of a full-color dash with extensive connectivity options. Great quality abounds and the performance more than makes up for inferior storage.
Pros
Offers great handling
Comes with an appreciable infotainment kit
Comfortable rider ergonomics
Cons
The storage space isn’t the greatest
A lack of adequate wind protection
You need spanners to adjust the position of the adjustable screen
2Yamaha XMAX
Yamaha
Baby brother to the TMAX, the XMAX has a 292cc single-cylinder engine producing 33 horsepower, in a package that weighs a mere 397 pounds, with gas mileage of 76 MPG. ABS and traction control are valuable additions and both the screen and handlebars are adjustable to enable the perfect riding position to be dialed in.
Under seat storage is good enough to fit two full-face helmets and LED lighting is a classy touch. If it looks like a slightly scaled-down TMAX, that is no bad thing, and it certainly doesn’t lack in rider and passenger comfort, even if the engine might be a little small for longer touring journeys. Twin discs up front give all the stopping power you could need.
Pros
The ride quality is really, really good
Funky design language
A peppy, economical engine
Cons
It is a little pricey considering its segment
Shorter riders may not like the tall seat height
Not suited for long trips
1Honda Silver Wing
Honda
Officially called the FJS600, it was aimed directly at the Suzuki Burgman and Yamaha TMAX, and being lighter than the Suzuki and offering more comfort than the Yamaha, it was a good middle-ground maxi-scooter. The 582cc parallel twin engine produces 50 horsepower and typical Honda engineering integrity and build quality means that, with regular servicing, it will last for years. Comfort is excellent, weather protection is great and single discs front and back are perfectly good enough. If your budget is limited, this is an excellent choice.
Pros
One of the most comfortable scooters out there
The Honda reliability
Lighter than most maxi scooters of its segment
Cons
It weaves a little at high speeds
Fuel economy will drop drastically if you push it
The rear suspension may feel a tad bit stiff
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