Celebrating the great Giacomo Agostini, winner of 122 motorcycling Grands Prix on his way to 15 world titles, Agostini: On the British Circuits by The Classic MotorCycle editor James Robinson, is a stunning collection of period photographs which captures him in action on racetracks in Britain.

Collated using images from the world-leading Mortons Archive, incorporating the Nick Nicholls collection, this book focuses not on Agostini’s worldwide GP achievements, but looks instead at what happened when he came to the British circuits and raced – not only the TT and Ulster GPs, but the circuits up and down the country.

From the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s, Agostini, or ‘Ago’ to motorcyclists worldwide, was the poster boy of two-wheeled sport, his winning combination of bravery, skill, and style on the machine, coupled with film star good looks off it, leading to huge fame.

Ago and the MV were unassailable for years on end, but arguably the Italian’s greatest achievements came when he fled the comfy nest of the MV camp to sign for Yamaha.

Critics and doubters were quickly silenced as he claimed two world titles for the Japanese firm, including its (and Japan’s) first blue riband 500cc title.

British race fans flocked to see the great man in action when visiting the circuits and he generally didn’t disappoint, racking up wins across the country.

Agostini: On the British Circuits is available to order for £9.99 via www.mortonsbooks.co.uk

Suzuki has launched a new Service Activated Warranty, which extends a motorcycle’s warranty period after the initial three years through regular servicing at authorised Suzuki dealerships.

The Service Activated Warranty is offered once the motorcycle reaches the end of its manufacturer warranty period of three years, and is booked in for its next scheduled service within the Suzuki Dealer network. This warranty then stays in place until the next qualifying service. It is then simply renewed again, up to a maximum vehicle age of seven years or 70,000 miles, whichever comes first.

The Service Activated Warranty is offered to customers completely free of charge.

All major components are covered, and should the machine be sold between services and within the seven-year qualifying period, the warranty will simply be transferred to the new owner.

The Service Activity Warranty can also be enjoyed by owners of secondhand machines, even if any original warranty has expired and if there is a gap in the service history. Providing the new owner has their motorcycle serviced at a Suzuki dealership and goes through a Suzuki Motorcycle Health Check in the first instance, it will benefit from a fresh, one-year warranty.

For these customers, the Service Activated Warranty will begin 30 days from the date the authorised Suzuki Dealer service has been completed.

Denis Houston, Director Aftersales at Suzuki GB, said, “At Suzuki, customer experience and retention are paramount, the launch of Service Activated Warranty will certainly enhance this for the future, ensuring our customers get the best levels of service, fitment of genuine parts and avail of the expertise within our dealer network rather than going to a non-franchised repairer once their manufacturer warranty expires. Offering Service Activated Warranty is free of charge to owners, is unique, and we are very proud to offer this as a strong message in support of our customers.”

To find out more about Suzuki’s Service Activated Warranty, www.bikes.Suzuki.co.uk/saw 

There's no denying that electric bikes, or e-bikes as they are commonly known, have significantly transformed our commuting experience in the most exciting way possible.

Electric bikes represent the future of transportation with all their advantages – convenience, impressive efficiency, and an unforgettable riding experience. However, with the popularity of e-bikes, the spike in electric bike-related accidents has become a significant concern. As a sobering reminder of this issue, let's take a moment to recall the recent unfortunate incidents on Manhattan Bridge. These reminders ring the alarm bells for the pressing need to prioritize the safe operation of electric bikes. In light of these events, this blog post aims to spread awareness about e-bike safety and provide a comprehensive guide to prevent accidents, thus ensuring a safer and more enjoyable ride for electric bicycle enthusiasts across the globe.

Understanding E-bike Accidents

To effectively prevent e-bike accidents, we must understand their nature, causes, and associated risks. To achieve this goal, it's crucial that we gain a complete understanding of their nature, causes, and risks associated with them. Let's dive into the specifics. Statistics The statistics about e-bike accidents over the years present a startling scenario. A report by the National Safety Council revealed that there had been a significant increase in e-bike-related accidents over the past few years. To put it in perspective, let's consider the numbers from 2021 alone - e-bike accidents resulted in over 15,000 injuries and nearly 300 fatalities in the United States. Such figures call for the immediate implementation of effective prevention strategies. Prevention Strategies for E-bike Accidents & Safety Tips Preventing e-bike accidents requires training, safety equipment, defensive riding techniques, understanding traffic rules, and road condition awareness. Let's delve into each of these aspects in more detail. Rider Training Proper training and rider education form the foundation of safe e-bike usage. It's about knowing how to ride a bike and understanding how your specific e-bike operates its capabilities, and its limitations. For instance, e-bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles, and understanding how to handle these speeds is crucial. Maintaining control over an e-bike requires knowledge of how to ride safely, negotiate turns efficiently and use its braking system effectively to avoid sudden stops that could cause accidents. Rider training can also involve performing a pre-ride inspection to ensure your e-bike is in good working condition. Checking tire pressure, checking brake function, and ensuring lights and signals work are among the steps needed for successful vehicle operation. Safety Equipment The importance of using essential safety gear cannot be overstated. Helmets, visibility accessories, and protective clothing are all vital in ensuring rider safety. A well-fitted helmet, for instance, can reduce the risk of head injuries by up to 70%. Consider the following safety gear: Helmet: A helmet is your first defense in protecting your head in case of falls or collisions. Make sure it's well-fitted and meets safety standards. Visibility Accessories: Lights and reflective clothing ensure other road users can see you, especially in poor light or weather conditions. These accessories could include front and rear lights, reflective vests, or reflective stickers on your e-bike. Protective Clothing: Protective clothing, such as gloves and knee pads, can protect against scrapes and injuries in case of a fall. In colder weather, wearing layers is essential to stay warm and maintain your focus on the road. Defensive Riding Techniques Defensive riding involves anticipating hazards and maintaining situational awareness. Signal your turns, don't weave between lanes of traffic, and avoid sudden stops or changes of direction. It's about being proactive rather than reactive, anticipating potential hazards before they become a problem. For example, always be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards such as potholes, pedestrians, and other vehicles. Maintain a safe distance from other road users and always signal your intentions to others. Understanding Traffic Rules E-bike riders must understand and respect traffic regulations. To do this responsibly means stopping at red lights and stop signs, and sharing the road responsibly with other vehicles and pedestrians. It's not just about knowing the rules but understanding why they exist and their role in keeping everyone safe. For instance, traffic laws are designed to regulate traffic flow and prevent accidents. By following these laws, you ensure your safety and contribute to the overall safety of the road. Road Condition Awareness Assessing and adapting to various road conditions is another critical aspect of safe e-bike riding. For instance, wet or icy conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents and require additional caution. Understand how different conditions affect your e-bike's performance and adjust your riding style accordingly. For example, wet roads can make it harder for your e-bike's tires to grip the road, increasing the risk of skidding. In such conditions, reduce your speed and avoid sharp turns. Similarly, icy or snowy conditions can make it harder to see and navigate, requiring additional caution and slower speeds. These prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of e-bike accidents and ensure a safer riding experience. Promoting a Safety Culture for E-bike Riders Creating a safety culture among e-bike riders is a collective effort that requires the participation of everyone involved. It's about individual riders taking precautions and the broader community working together to promote safety and prevent accidents. Public Awareness Increasing public awareness about the risks and responsibilities involved in e-bike riding is a crucial first step. Understanding the inherent risks associated with electric bicycles (e-bikes), such as speed and maneuverability, is essential, along with following safety regulations. Community Engagement Engaging with local communities, organizations, and authorities can significantly promote e-bike safety. Participate in safety workshops, advocate for improved infrastructure, or share safety tips within your local community. Collaboration with Local Authorities Working with local authorities can lead to significant improvements in infrastructure, enhanced bike lane safety, and more vigorous law enforcement. Advocating for more bike lanes, improved signage, or stricter enforcement of traffic laws are all practical tools for improving cycling infrastructure. Collaboration with local authorities can include: Advocating for the creation of more dedicated bike lanes and safer intersections. Lobbying for better signage to alert drivers to the presence of e-bikes. Working with law enforcement ensures traffic laws are enforced, and reckless riders are held accountable. Dealing with E-bike Accidents and Emergencies Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. Knowing how to handle emergencies and what to do in the aftermath of an accident. Emergency Preparedness Preparing for emergencies involves: Having basic first-aid knowledge. Knowing who to contact in an emergency. Understanding how to report an accident. Learn basic first aid techniques, keep emergency contact numbers handy, and understand the procedures for reporting an accident to authorities and your insurance provider. Post-Accident Support After an accident, seeking medical assistance, fulfilling legal requirements, and understanding the steps for making insurance claims are essential. Steps to take after an accident: Seeking immediate medical assistance, even if you think you're not seriously injured. Reporting the accident to the authorities. Documenting the accident scene with photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. Keeping all medical records and receipts related to the accident. Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Himiway Electric Bikes: A Safe and Reliable Option When it comes to choosing an electric bike (e-bike), safety and reliability should be at the top of your priority list. Himiway Electric Bikes is a leading brand that offers high-quality e-bikes designed with safety in mind. Safety Features Himiway Electric Bikes come equipped with a range of safety features to ensure a secure riding experience. These features include: Sturdy Construction: Himiway bikes are built with durable frames and components, providing stability and enhanced safety. Powerful Brakes: The e-bikes are equipped with reliable hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes, ensuring quick and precise stopping power when needed. Integrated Lights: Safety is paramount, especially during low-light conditions. Himiway bikes feature integrated front and rear lights, improving visibility and increasing rider safety. Wide Tires: The e-bikes are equipped with wide tires that provide better traction and stability, reducing the risk of accidents caused by slipping or skidding. Suspension System: Many Himiway models have front suspension forks and rear suspension, absorbing shocks and providing a smoother ride even on rough terrains, enhancing rider comfort and safety. Reliability and Performance In addition to safety, Himiway Electric Bikes offer exceptional reliability and performance. Here are some key features that make Himiway bikes stand out: Long Battery Life: Himiway e-bikes come with high-capacity batteries that provide long riding ranges. The batteries are designed to last and can withstand various terrains and weather conditions. Powerful Motors: Himiway bikes are equipped with robust motors that offer ample power and torque. This ensures consistent performance, even when tackling steep hills or challenging terrains. Quality Components: Himiway sources components from reputable manufacturers, ensuring the bikes are made to last. From the drivetrain to the handlebars, every component undergoes rigorous testing and quality control. Customizable Riding Modes: Himiway e-bikes often feature multiple riding modes, allowing riders to choose their preferred level of assistance. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a bit of a workout, Himiway bikes can accommodate your preferences. Conclusion Preventing e-bike accidents and promoting rider safety is a shared responsibility. By adopting the strategies provided in this guide, staying updated on safety practices, and contributing to a safer e-bike community, we can all play a part in reducing e-bike accidents. Remember, safety isn't just about protecting yourself—it's about creating a safer environment for everyone on the road. 

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Take a look at a few of our upcoming events at the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience in Hinckley, including Triumph's collaboration with influential street artist, Dave Bonzai, who specialises in hyper-realistic chrome effect art. Stop by to see this one-of-a-kind piece at the factory for yourself and for a chance to take your own Instaworthy shot.
A brand synonymous with innovation, SHARK, is pleased to announce the launch of the SKWAL i3 – the brand’s latest UN ECE 22.06 certified full face helmet featuring two brand-new patented technologies and integrated active brake lights for ‘Intelligent Visibility’.

The innovative safety LED system, tried and tested since the introduction of the SKWAL platform in 2015, has been redesigned with the addition of active brake lights as standard. Designed without the need for Bluetooth or wires, the industry-leading tech uses an inbuilt triaxial accelerometer to activate the bright red LED’s on the rear of the helmet in the event of braking. There are white LEDs located on the front of the helmet for active rider visibility to oncoming traffic. Be Bright, Ride Safe.

When the unit is turned on, there are a total of three modes to choose from:

White LEDs on front constantly on – smart brake lights flash when braking.
White LEDs on front flashing – smart brake lights flash when braking.
White LEDs on front off – smart brake lights flash when braking.
The smart brake lights will flash three times per second under steady braking and five times per second under hard braking conditions.

The integrated battery is charged via a USB-C cable with three hours of charge offering 12 hours of usage. Sleep mode activates after two minutes of no movement and after 24 hours the unit will turn off completely to reserve battery.

The new SKWAL i3 has a Lexan™ injected Polycarbonate shell and features a new patented rapid, no-tool visor removal system, meaning the Optical Class 1 anti-scratch visor with Pinlock® 70 can be removed easily by simply manoeuvering it upwards and pushing two buttons – to replace simply line up the visor with the markers and push down. There are new Pinlock® tension adjustment pins and a visor locking system with air inlet position.

There’s an integrated anti-scratch and anti-fog sun visor and intercom compatibility with space for 40mm speakers factored into the multi-density EPS padding. The new patented ergonomic textile fitting system makes it easier for the lining to be removed and replaced.

The Skwal i3 is the first helmet in the SHARK range to use the new – ‘Best Fit’ by SHARK – following a campaign of 3D head shape scans by the brand. Five highly technical textiles add to the comfort and ‘second-skin’ feel. It fastens using an adjustable micrometric buckle for a secure and personalised fit.

Available in two shell sizes and in XS-XXL, the SKWAL i3’s design was drawn directly from the world of motorsport and science fiction – the blend of aerodynamics and robotics accentuates the unique signature lighting.

With an RRP from £239, the SKWAL i3 is available now and in a choice of 13 graphics.

As additional options, as well as clear there are six visors, including iridium colours and a variety of tints.

To see the full 2023 range from SHARK or to locate your nearest SHARK Helmet dealer, visit www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936.

Having the right tools and equipment in your garage or workshop is important for you to stay on top of your motorcycle maintenance. Whether you’re a keen enthusiast or a novice wanting to get to grips with the basics, you need the correct tools for the job. Doing your own repairs can save money, increase your skills and knowledge, and allow you to have a lot of fun in the process.

In this article, we outline the essentials that you should have in your motorcycle workshop.

Socket sets and spanners

One of the must-haves in any motorcycle workshop is a socket set. These interchangeable attachments are key in loosening and tightening nuts and bolts that hold integral parts of your motorcycle together.

Wheel replacements will almost certainly need a socket wrench and the correct-sized attachment to remove and replace the wheel. Spanners are a more manual form of the same tool and are useful when you can’t access a particular area with a socket wrench.

Torque wrench

A torque wrench does a similar job to a socket wrench but the torque can be set and adjusted depending on how much force you want to put into tightening nuts and bolts. Overtightening can result in damaged fasteners which may be difficult to remove and replace, or even might break entirely.

Screwdrivers

A comprehensive set of screwdrivers is also important to tackle many of the exterior tasks that accompany motorcycle maintenance. A range of head sizes and types will give you the versatility to tackle a broad range of tasks such as removing motorcycle bodywork or fitting accessories to your bike.

Hex keys

Hex keys (also known as Allen keys) are in a similar bracket to screwdrivers but will allow you to tackle jobs where screwdrivers aren’t appropriate. They can loosen and fasten screws that typically attach parts of the bodywork and join internal components together. With a comprehensive range of screwdrivers and hex keys, you should be equipped for many repairs that you may face.

Oil and lubricant dispenser   

Keeping your motorcycle well-oiled, greased and lubricated in the appropriate areas is significant to ensure that it runs smoothly and limits wear and tear. Fluid dispensers, such as these here, allow for easy access and help you to apply fluids where they are needed without creating too much mess.

Components such as the axle need to be greased in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, whilst the chain needs to be lubricated every 400-600 kilometres – but check your manufacturer's guidelines if you’re unsure.

Rags and cloths

Motorcycle maintenance is a dirty, greasy job so you should have plenty of cleaning supplies to hand. Old rags are handy for wiping grease and oil from your bike, whilst cloths can help to clean and polish the bodywork.

These are the essential tools and equipment you should have ready in your workshop to deal with the basic repairs and maintenance that you may need to tackle on your motorcycle. More specialised tools will be needed if you are to contend with more serious tasks, but these should give you a good baseline to work from.

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