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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
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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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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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| MotoGP stalwart Mike Trimby was presented with the Royal Automobile Club’s prestigious Torrens Trophy at the Pall Mall clubhouse in London last night. The award citation paid tribute to Trimby’s tireless work to improve circuit safety and represent the riders, teams and commercial side of MotoGP. |
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“Last year was another superb year for motorcycle racing and selecting a winner was no easy task,’ said former racer Barrie Baxter, Chairman of the Torrens Trophy Nominations Committee. ‘Steve Holcombe clinched his seventh World FIM EnduroGP Championship, Brad Ray was crowned British Superbike Champion, and Jane Daniels won the World Enduro Championship for the third time, making her Team GB’s best and most successful enduro racer.
“Finally we decided to honour the man known as ‘the King of the MotoGP paddock’. The Torrens Trophy celebrates an individual or organisation considered to have made an outstanding contribution to motorcycling in Britain. It therefore gives us enormous pleasure to award the 2022 Torrens Trophy to one of the biggest unsung heroes of British motorcycle racing.”
Trimby’s love affair with motorcycles and motorcycle racing started when he was a teenager in the 1960s. He started working as a mechanic for famed tuner Syd Lawton to fund the start of his own racing career, which included rides in the Isle of Man TT and the F750 world championship. In 1978 he was asked to organise the Macau motorcycle Grand Prix, a job he continued doing until 2011. He also launched the Racing and Sporting Show at Alexandra Palace, London, which became a must-do event for race fans.
Trimby became a major force in the world of Grand Prix racing following a long period of rider unrest in the late 1970s and early 1980s, which included rider strikes at the Austrian and French GPs and an attempt by three-times MotoGP world champion Kenny Roberts and others to organise a rival world championship. The main issues were safety and money.
In 1982 the top riders asked Trimby to represent them in their fight for better conditions. Four years later IRTA (the International Roadracing Team Association) was established to oversee GP racing’s next steps into the modern world. Trimby’s job changed from running a riders’ trade union to a body representing the teams. Today IRTA is still responsible for numerous areas of MotoGP. It works with rights-holder Dorna to contract the teams, organises the paddock and the grid and looks after facilities for non-European races.
From a technical, commercial and safety point of view, MotoGP has never been in a better place, largely thanks to the herculean efforts of Mike Trimby and his wife Irene. For four decades Trimby and IRTA have represented riders and teams in Grand Prix racing, while improving circuit safety, putting the races on TV, organising teams and making sure everyone gets paid. Quite simply, he’s the man who helped make MotoGP the hugely popular spectacle that it is today.
“I am surprised but honoured to receive this award,” said Trimby. “My achievements were made possible only by the initial support from the leading Grand Prix riders and subsequently the unity of the teams within IRTA, but none of this would have been possible without the partnership with Dorna, which started in 1992. Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta and his staff are equally passionate about rider safety.
“I also want to share this award with my wife Irene, who has worked with me at Grands Prix since 1982. Whatever achievements I am credited with would not have been possible without her support.”
Numerous racing luminaries were in attendance on the night, from great riders, including John McGuinness, Cal Crutchlow, Niall Mackenzie, James Toseland and Eugene Laverty through to Dorna executives, team owners and team principles.
“Mike is a key pillar in our sport and a very deserving recipient of this award,’ commented Ezpeleta. “He has been part of Grand Prix motorcycle racing for decades and in our time working together, I have seen the dedication he’s given to the paddock, which has made the sport better and safer than ever. I’m very happy to see his achievements recognised by the Royal Automobile Club and proud to continue working together to keep making MotoGP the best it possibly can be, for everyone – on track, in the paddock and for our millions of fans.’
Three-times World Champion Freddie Spencer was one of many racers to offer his congratulations. “It is truly great news about the well-deserved recognition the Royal Automobile Club is giving to Mike Trimby for all he has contributed to our great sport,” said Spencer. “I started working with Mike 40 years ago and today, as Chairman of the MotoGP Steward Panel as the IRTA representative, it’s a privilege to work alongside him in our mutual goal of providing riders and teams the opportunity to give the fans the safest, most exciting and enjoyable show in motorsport.”
Among those members of racing management offering their good wishes was Lin Jarvis, Managing Director of Yamaha. “This is a much-deserved reward for Mike’s enormous contribution as the CEO of IRTA,” said Jarvis. “Mike and IRTA have done a great deal towards the safety of the riders, the organisation of the paddock and putting in place a real structure behind the scenes of the MotoGP world. It’s the real backbone of the Championship.”
- 2021 The Crescent Yamaha team for winning the riders’, teams’ and manufacturers’ titles in the FIM World Superbike Championship.
- 2020 Emma Bristow for claiming her seventh consecutive FIM Women’s Trial World Championship.
- 2019 Peter Hickman for his three Isle of Man TT victories and for setting the world’s fastest road race lap record of 136.415mph at the Ulster GP.
- 2018 Tai Woffinden for being the most successful British speedway rider in history.
- 2017 Jonathan Rea MBE for being the first rider to win three consecutive World Superbike Championships.
- 2016 MotoGP racer Cal Crutchlow for being first British rider to win a premier class World Championship Motorcycle Grand Prix in 35 years.
- 2015 Eleven-time TT winner Ian Hutchinson for his outstanding determination, courage and overcoming adversity to win multiple TTs.
- 2014 Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne for becoming the first man in history to be crowned British Superbike Championship on four occasions (2003, 2008, 2012 and 2014).
- 2013 Tom Sykes for being crowned the 15th World Superbike Champion, the fourth from Great Britain and only the second rider to win for Kawasaki in the series for 20 years.
- 2008 World Superbike Champion James Toseland was awarded the Trophy for his immense contribution to raising the profile of motorcycle racing in this country.
- 1998 Ian Kerr of the Metropolitan Police for 20 years of tireless work in promoting safe and responsible motorcycling.
- 1989 BMW in recognition for its contribution to motorcycle safety through the development of its anti-lock braking system.
- 1981 Dave Taylor MBE for his vast contribution to motorcycle road safety.
- 1980 Transport and Road Laboratory.
- 1979 Lieutenant-Colonel Fredrick Lovegrove OBE.
The Torrens Trophy
The Royal Automobile Club has always had a close association with the motorcycling world. The Club formed the Auto Cycle Club in 1903, which went on to become the Auto Cycle Union in 1947. The first motorcycle race was held on the Isle of Man in 1905 for cars – two years before the first Tourist Trophy for motorcycles.
The Torrens Trophy recognises an individual or organisation considered to have made an outstanding contribution to the cause of safe and skillful motorcycling in the United Kingdom, or to have made an outstanding contribution of technical excellence to further the cause of motorcycling in the UK, or to have shown outstanding skill in international motorcycling sporting events in the United Kingdom.
The Torrens Trophy was first awarded in 1978 in memory of Arthur Bourne, a motorcycling journalist who wrote a column under the name ‘Torrens’. Arthur Bourne was also a Vice-Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club. It is awarded only when the Club feels that the achievement justifies it.
The Club’s Torrens Trophy Nominations Committee consists of Chairman and ex-bike racer Barrie Baxter, Royal Automobile Club Chairman Ben Cussons, double World Champion and past Torrens winner James Toseland, well-respected motorcycle journalist and TT winner Mat Oxley, commentator and former racer Steve Parrish, Club member Robert Bourne (son of motorcycle journalist Arthur Bourne, in whose memory the Trophy is awarded) and Queen of Bikers Maria Costello MBE, who has held the Guinness World Record for being the fastest woman to lap the Isle of Man TT course.
About the Royal Automobile Club
The Royal Automobile Club was founded in 1897 and its distinguished history mirrors that of motoring itself. In 1907, the Club was awarded its Royal title by King Edward VII, sealing the Club’s status as Britain’s oldest and most influential motoring organisation.
The Club’s early years were focused on promoting the motor car and its place in society, which developed into motoring events such as the 1000 Mile Trial, first held in 1900. In 1905, the Club held the first Tourist Trophy, which remains the oldest continuously competed for motor sports event. The Club promoted the first pre-war and post-war Grands Prix at Brooklands in 1926 and Silverstone in 1948 respectively, whilst continuing to campaign for the rights of the motorist, including introducing the first driving licences.
Today, the Club continues to develop and support automobilism through representation on the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the RAC Foundation while promoting its own motoring events including the Club’s London Motor Week and the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
The Club also awards a series of internationally recognised trophies and medals celebrating motoring achievements. These include the Segrave Trophy, the Torrens Trophy, the Simms Medal, the Dewar Trophy and the oldest trophy in motorsport, the Tourist Trophy.
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- MAHLE Powertrain and Vepro agree partnership to accelerate development of sustainable solutions for motorcycle and light-vehicle sectors
- Decades of combined experience builds on the UK’s continued growth as a centre of excellence for motorcycle development
- Capitalises on MAHLE Powertrain’s unrivalled facilities, including world’s first motorcycle dyno to operate in climatic and altitude test cells
MAHLE Powertrain and Vepro, an engineering consultancy with decades of experience in motorcycle and light vehicle development, have agreed a technical partnership that will build on the United Kingdom’s continued re-emergence as a centre of excellence for motorcycle development and manufacturing. The partnership will accelerate the creation of innovative solutions to the challenges faced by OEMs across the globe, particularly to drive mobility for a sustainable future. This is work MAHLE Powertrain excels at, with their Northampton facility equipped with the world’s first motorcycle dynamometer that can offer climatic and altitude testing.
“World-famous and storied brands are increasingly choosing to base their development efforts in the UK, and together that makes us well placed to offer the complex range of services that motorcycle and light vehicle producers need,” said John Hollingworth, Sales and Marketing Director at MAHLE Powertrain.
“This year is shaping up to be an excellent year for the British powered two-wheeler and light-vehicle industry,” said Neil Wright, who founded Vepro after more than a decade working for global brands including Triumph Motorcycles. “That’s thanks to the rise of small, enterprising brands and start-ups, but also the return of famous marques such as Royal Enfield, Norton and BSA as they develop their R&D centres, often in the same area where it all began more than a hundred years ago. We’re delighted to be joining forces with MAHLE Powertrain to ensure the support these manufacturers need is always on their doorstep as well as offering support to OEMs further afield.”
Vepro’s experience with full vehicle development is perfectly complemented by MAHLE Powertrain’s expertise with vehicle powertrains, both for traditional internal combustion engines and eMobility. At the company’s state-of-the-art vehicle and battery development centre in Northampton, a purpose-designed mobile motorcycle dyno can be set-up in the facility’s various test chambers. There it can recreate climatic conditions ranging from -40°C to +60°C, humidity ranging from 10% to 80%, and simulate altitudes up to 5,000m (16,400ft).
This unique capability drastically simplifies the development of powered two-wheelers by moving testing to a safer, more controlled environment, away from the challenges and dangers of the real world. By simulating such a broad range of environmental conditions, calibration and verification work can be completed in much shorter timescales, and without the need for expensive and time-consuming international testing regimes.
Lab-based testing also allows for greater repeatability and is particularly important when calibrating products for markets such as China where emissions standards are now among the most stringent in the world.
Standards for motorcycles and light vehicles generally lag behind those of passenger cars. That creates an opportunity to maximise the use of MAHLE Powertrain’s decades of experience in these sectors as technologies developed for larger vehicles filter down throughout the industry.
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