FIAT 500 FLYING THE LONDON EYE

8pm January 21st 2008

FIAT launch the stunning new Fiat 500 with a flight in one of the British Airways London Eye capsules.

The new Fiat 500 took to the sky at 8.00pm – exactly 500 hours into 2008 – as a fantastic light show lit up a showbiz and celebrity event on the banks of the River Thames.
Around 500 VIPs, including Kelly Osbourne, Jade Jagger, Eva Herzigova, Eddie Jordan, Leah Wood and Lawrence Dallaglio and 1,500 others were invited to the all-ticket launch event, which featured fantastic live performances by pop sensations Mika, The Feeling and The Vibrants.
There was a cavalcade of Fiat 500s old and new as the car in the London Eye capsule rose into the air at the start of a two-week ‘flight’ that will result in it covering around 84 miles – without turning a wheel!
Fiat Managing Director, Andrew Humberstone, says: “We are absolutely delighted to have given thousands of people a party to remember, and the chance to watch the launch of our new Fiat 500.

“We are confident that this car, with it stylish looks, economical consumption figures, outstanding safety features and ‘green’ credentials, will win a place in everyone’s hearts.”
While the new Fiat 500 is airborne, members of the public have the chance to win a Fiat 500 in an interactive design competition being staged at the London Eye until 3 February.

London Motorcycle Show

B-KING TO INVADE LONDON

The most powerful production naked muscle-bike is set to invade London at the end of the month, as Suzuki’s B-King gets ready to take centre stage at the London Motorcycle Show at Excel between the 31st January and the 3rd February.

Launched last summer, the B-King has enjoyed widespread critical acclaim, delivering performance that can normally only be achieved by a full-on superbike. Instead, the outlandish brute packs a serious punch while featuring futuristic styling that would be more at home in a scene from Transformers than in Canary Wharf!

On display alongside the B-King will be Suzuki’s other white-hot 2008 models, including the all-new GSX-R600 and 750, GSX1300R Hayabusa, GSX650F and Suzuki’s learner friendly range of scooters and commuters.

For more information on the show visit www.londonmotorcycleshow.com or visit www.suzuki.co.uk for more model information.

The new BMW M3 Convertible

Available April 2008

BMW UK has announced details of the third M3 derivative, the new BMW M3 Convertible. The fourth generation of BMW’s open-topped M3 becomes the first M car to feature a Retractable Hard-Top.

The launch of the new M3 Convertible also represents another first with the introduction of BMW’s new seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) as an option to the standard six-speed manual gearbox. Offering the highest levels of performance and driving dynamics with instantaneous gear shifts, the new BMW M3 Convertible offers a unique recipe for drivers who enjoy open-topped motoring accompanied by an eight-cylinder symphony.

Engine and Drivetrain
The first generation of M3 Convertible, launched in 1988, delivered 200hp from BMW’s first 16-valve 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine. Subsequent generations of M3 engines have taken top category honours on a record six successive occasions in the Engine of the Year awards.

Wind the clock forward 20 years to the introduction of today’s E93-generation M3 Convertible. The new M3 Convertible’s engine develops more than twice the power of the original, delivering 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit. Like the previous three generations, the engine in the new M3 Convertible easily breaks through the magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre. The new car also offers a 10 per cent improvement in the power-to-weight ratio when compared to its predecessor E46 M3 Convertible.

The V8 engine powers the car from zero to 62mph in 5.3 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. However, even with these supercar levels of performance, BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme ensures that economy is not compromised with the car delivering 21.9mpg on the combined cycle.

A bespoke driving experience

In common with the M3 Coupé, the new M3 Convertible features an MDrive button that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The settings for the optional Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps that govern throttle response can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel. As can the response rate of the Servotronic power steering. If the car is equipped with the new M DCT gearbox, the Drivelogic preference can also be saved. Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional navigation system, one push of the MDrive button can transform the M3’s driving experience.

Hard-top or open-top?
The new BMW M3 Convertible is the first M3 to feature an electro-hydraulic Retractable Hard-Top as standard. It’s also the first M3 to feature BMW’s innovative Sun Reflective leather technology, allowing the driver the opportunity to leave the roof down for prolonged periods without the seat leather overheating.

The M3 Convertible combines the elegance of the ‘standard’ 3 Series Convertible with the athleticism of the M3 Coupé. A striking powerdome and two air intakes in the aluminium bonnet cover the new V8-engine and help engine cooling. Primarily, the design of the front of the car is defined by the significant volumes of air required for the induction system. As a result, three large air ducts in the front lower apron keep the engine breathing.

The flared wheel arches house the standard 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels, with a striking 19-inch wheel available as an option. Another BMW M trait, a side gill in the front wing, also includes the side direction indicator and the M3 logo.

Aerodynamically-efficient door mirrors channel air flow and reduce drag, as does the rear diffuser, which houses BMW M’s trademark twin double exhaust pipes.

The new BMW M3 Convertible goes on sale in April 2008 and costs £54,655 OTR. (M3 Coupé: £50,725 OTR and M3 Saloon: £49,310 OTR).

Tata Motors Launch the world’s cheapest car — the Nano.

Over the past year, Tata has been hyping up a car that would cost a mere 100,000 rupees or a cool £ 1275 in the UK. It has been nicknamed the “People’s Car.” Over the course of the New Delhi Auto Expo, which began this week, anticipation had grown to fever pitch.
“They are not concept cars, they are not prototypes,” announced Mr. Tata. “They are the production cars that will roll out of the Singur plant later this year.”
The four-door Nano is a little over 10 feet long and nearly 5 feet wide. It is powered by a 624cc two-cylinder engine at the rear. With 33 horsepower, the Nano is capable of 65 miles an hour. Its four small wheels are at the absolute corners of the car to improve handling. Tata says the Nano has passed emissions standards and returns more than 50mpg.
“Today, we indeed have a People’s Car, which is affordable and yet built to meet safety requirements and emission norms, to be fuel efficient and low on emissions,” Mr. Tata added. “We are happy to present the People’s Car to India and we hope it brings the joy, pride and utility of owning a car to many families who need personal mobility.”
The base price for the Nano will be 120,000 rupees, including road tax and delivery. Higher level models will cost more and come with air-conditioning. Sun visors and radios are extra.
The Nano will go on sale in India later this year with an initial production run of 250,000 a year. Tata says it will offer the Nano in other emerging markets in Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa within four years. But don’t expect to see it in the UK for the foreseeable future.

THE NEW ŠKODA SUPERB BREAKS COVER

Škoda has unveiled the first official photographs of the all-new Superb. Offering generous interior space and a striking new look. At 4,838mm long and 1,783mm wide the new Superb is 35mm longer and 18mm wider than its predecessor. It stands at 1,461mm high and has a wheel base of 2,761mm - 8mm lower and 42mm shorter respectively than the model it replaces.
As customers have come to expect from the Czech firm’s products, the new Superb features a number of smart technological solutions including adaptive cornering headlamps, a new electronic air conditioning system, automatic parking assist and much more that will be revealed over the coming weeks.

Safety was one of the top priorities in developing the new Superb, and with nine airbags altogether it is now safer than ever.
A total of up to six engines will be available in the new Superb - three petrol and three diesel. Outputs will range from 105bhp to 260bhp and the units will be combined with a selection of manual or DSG transmissions. The full UK engine line-up will be announced closer to the model’s UK launch date.The Škoda Superb will be manufactured in the car maker’s Kvasiny plant in the Czech Republic and will be on sale in the UK in September 2008.

It will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 4 and 5 March 2008.

MMI’s new Avocet … British, good looks and affordable performance

MMI’s new Avocet … British, good looks and affordable performance

A new British-built sportscar, which combines a stylish, ultra-lightweight two-seater body with exceptional chassis dynamics and awesome performance is unveiled at the 2008 Autosport International Show at the NEC in Birmingham. MM Industries, which now owns the former Strathcarron sportscar business, is presenting its production Avocet two-seater during the show’s two trade days, prior to a public launch later in the year.

The Avocet is displayed by Surface Transforms (Stand E304) - whose latest technology carbon ceramic brake system is fitted to the car. The system, which will be available as an extra cost option, reduces overall weight by 2.5 kilograms per corner, with a resultant improvement in handling and braking performance.

The car will be built in South Essex by the specialist automotive engineering and motorsport team which recently acquired the business of Roush Technologies in the UK. The vehicle will use selected Ford standard and performance parts, which will give the car a mature component inventory which is fully tested and proven in the market.

MMI has placed an order for a limited initial production run of the car, which now features a significantly restyled doorless moulded bodyshell and incorporates some of the latest lightweight composite materials. The standard car features a steeply inclined windscreen, although a very attractive low-line wrap-around aero-screened ‘Spyder’ version is also planned.

The standard powertrain incorporates a Ford 2-litre Duratec engine, recalibrated by Roush to suit the installation – and develop 150bhp. An uprated 225bhp version, developed by Roush’s Mountune performance division, will be available as a special order option. An all-up weight of around 700 kilograms will, in power to weight terms, position the Avocet alongside the quickest – and, with a 0-60 time under 5 seconds, is expected to make the car extremely competitive.

Current plans include building around 50 cars in the first year – with both left and right-hand drive versions available. The car will be sold as a fully equipped, fully homologated road-going sportscar. MMI is keen to differentiate the Avocet from the cluster of kit and track-day cars which have visited the market over recent years. A high degree of ‘customisation’ is to be offered – and extras for the car include a removable roof and exclusive detachable, fashion-styled travel luggage, which will clip into special cradles behind the cockpit.

“The original ambition to develop and produce a small, lightweight British sportscar at an affordable price, has not changed. The Avocet is an attractive looking car which uses core Ford componentry – all widely available off the shelf. As a result, the car possesses mature product handling, excellent driveability – and awesome performance. We believe that the Avocet will satisfy the gap in the market which has remained unoccupied for far too long – for an affordable performance sportscar with proven volume market reliability”, says MMI Founder and Managing Director, Martin Miles.

“The new production Avocet retains the original Reynard designed chassis, subsequently further developed by Ray Mallock and Chapman – and it has exceptional structural rigidity. The redesigned one-piece body utilises composite materials to provide remarkable strength combined with low weight. Add to that Roush’s experience of powertrain engineering, packaging and production – and we can be totally confident that this new car will fit the defined niche in the market for which our research has demonstrated that there is a significant demand”, says Miles.

AUDI QUATTRO by JEREMY WALTON

A celebration of the world’s first turbocharged 4x4 coupé

Order your copy now !
Audi Quattro (Haynes Great Cars Series)

Searching for Vorsprung durch Technik (Progress through Technology) a small squad of research and development engineers at Audi’s HQ in Bavaria broke the rules in the late 1970s. Under the leadership of ex-Porsche engineering legend Dr Ferdinand Piech, without official blessing, they raided the factory’s parts bins to create the first prototypes of what would become the revolutionary Audi quattro.

From its public debut at Geneva in March 1980, the quattro was an instant sensation. The original two-door coupé was a low-volume image-building exercise that resulted in a production run of over 11,500, rather than Audi’s original estimate of 400. Today there are over two million road-registered cars carrying the ‘quattro’ 4x4 trademark. Supporting such profitable sales was Audi Sport’s massive 1981–1986 World Rally Championship programme. Often controversial, often explosively unreliable, the flame-spitting rallying quattros revolutionised the rallying world. The quattro seized four World Championship titles from 1982–1984, guided by driving talent such as Michele Mouton, Hannu Mikkola, Walter Röhrl, Stig Blomqvist and Per Eklund.

This is the full story of Audi’s pioneering 4x4 turbocharged coupé. Illustrated with specially commissioned studio photography and a wealth of archive images, the authoritative text chronicles the quattro’s unconventional birth and evolution, from an Audi 80 development mule, through the first-generation road and rally cars, to the uncompromising Sport model and the sensational Pikes Peak specials. Interviews with leading development engineers and drivers add fascinating insight into the triumphs and setbacks behind the story.

Jeremy Walton first developed an enthusiasm for the quattro when he attended the car’s debut at the 1980 Geneva Show. Rides alongside Hannu Mikkola in works cars, both in the quattro’s rallying heyday and more recently, and the opportunity to drive various road and rally quattro models, have only heightened his respect and passion for Audi’s groundbreaking design. He is the author of 32 automotive books, including the reissued Haynes biography of the late Gerry Marshall, Only Here for the Beer.

Audi Quattro (Haynes Great Cars Series)

Severe Weather Advice - Slow Down Take Care Be Prepared

With the first snow of winter now across the UK , the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has repeated the advice it gave motorists in the Highways Agency leaflet “Driving in Severe Weather”.

Peter Rodger, IAM Chief Examiner said that drivers who are unused to poor driving conditions should literally change the way they drive.

“If it’s snowing or icy, make sure you slow down and keep well back from the vehicle in front of you” .

“When roads are slippery it will take up to ten times longer to stop. So drop your speed and give yourself more time to slow down and stop – aim to slow down earlier.”Mr Rodger said that motorists should take care even if roads have been treated.

“Don’t set off on your journey at the usual time thinking it’s ok, they’ve ‘done the roads’. Allow yourself extra time, even if it’s your usual drive to work or school.
“The two second rule – the minimum distance between you and the vehicle in front – is too short for these wintry conditions.
“Take particular care around spreading vehicles and vehicles clearing snow and only overtake if you can do so safely, without driving on uncleared snow."

All Motorists would be well advised to pack an Emergency Kit for their boot in case conditions worsen during the day.

A warm coat and a high visibility jacket -

Food and water -

Boots -

De-icer and scraper - a torch - a spade and -

A mobile phone with a well-charged battery

Don't Take Risks - Be Prepared

NEW CITROËN BERLINGO FOR 2008!

An advanced, all-new Berlingo will be launched during 2008 which, together with the forthcoming introduction of its new smaller stablemate, the Nemo, will make it another year of development and innovation for Citroën’s commercial vehicle operations.

This new generation Berlingo builds upon the outstanding success of the current model that, together with car versions, has sold over 1.75 million worldwide, making it the most successful commercial vehicle in Citroën’s history.

The new Berlingo will offer a payload of up to 850kg, together with a load length and space of 1.8m and 3.3 m3 respectively, whilst the availability of an Extenso® modular cabin allows larger loads of 3m and 3.7m3 to be carried. The all new model, which can seat three, will provide an unbeatable combination of design and engineering innovation, together with major practical, functional and cost benefits.

Offering passenger car like levels of equipment, the new model will be available with features such as Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and hill start assist. Further details of the new Berlingo, which will offer a wider choice of models and specifications than the current model, will be released nearer to its UK on-sale date, later in 2008.

Robert Handyside, Citroën’s commercial vehicle operations manager, comments, “During the second quarter of 2008 Citroën will launch the all-new sub-compact Nemo van, which will open up new markets for the company. The new Berlingo, due for launch later in the year, will expand Citroën’s coverage of the high cube van sector. Both the new Nemo and the Berlingo will complement the recently launched Dispatch and Relay ranges and, with the C2 Enterprise, allow Citroën to offer a seamless choice of carrying capacities covering the 0.84 to 17.0m3 sector in the up to 4.05 tonne gvw sector.”

KTM X-BOW TO MAKE AUTOSPORT SHOW DEBUT BIRMINGHAM 10th January

KTM Powersports AG has confirmed that its stunning new X-Bow sportscar will be exhibited at the Autosport International Racing Car Show starting on 10 January 2008.

The lightweight, high-performance X-Bow marks motorcycle manufacturer KTM’s groundbreaking move into the four-wheeled market, and will be presented to UK driving enthusiasts for the first time finished in the new optional ‘Gleaming White’ bodywork.

The Autosport Show appearance will mark the KTM X-Bow’s fourth major show outing following its world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show last year, its starring role at the 2007 Middle East International Motor Show in Dubai – where it was voted one of the event’s ‘Top Attractions’ by visitors – and its more recent showing at the end-of-year Bologna Motor Show, in Italy.

The Autosport Show takes place at Birmingham’s NEC from 10-13 January, and visitors will be able to see the new KTM X-Bow on Stand 9450 in Hall 9.

Production scheduled to begin with limited-edition ‘Dallara Series’

With customer orders for X-Bow exceeding all expectations, series production of KTM’s newcomer is scheduled to commence with a run of 100 limited-edition ‘Dallara Series’ models. The special ‘Dallara Series’ will feature extra equipment to boost the track-day sporty potential of X-bow. Subsequently, KTM will produce up to 1000 X-Bow sportscars per year at its new dedicated four-wheeled Centre of Excellence manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria.

ALL-NEW MAZDA2 DIESEL PRICES REVEALED

On sale in December, for delivery from March 2008, with Band B £35 road tax
Prices for the all-new Mazda2 diesel range of five-door hatchbacks, which will go on sale next March, have been confirmed and start from just £9,499 (on-the-road). Two equipment levels (TS and TS2) will be available each boasting the generous level of standard equipment already featured on the new Mazda2 petrol models.

New Mazda2 diesel models feature the same eye-catching, distinctive styling that is making the petrol models stand out from the small car segment crowd. Both models will be powered by a newly developed MZ-CD 1.4-litre common-rail turbo diesel engine.
This four‑cylinder power unit is similar to the engine of the outgoing model, but more fuel‑efficient and with reduced operating costs. It produces 68ps at 4,000rpm and maximum torque of 160Nm at a low 2,000rpm for quick responses to the throttle pedal. The precise-shifting five-speed manual transmission is fitted with special gear ratios to make the most of the diesel engine’s torque and ensure that this version of new Mazda2 is as much fun to drive as the petrol models.

The Mazda2 range starts with the TS model – rather than a more basic ‘S’ model – priced at £9,499 and a £1,500 step-up to £10,999 buys the TS2 model, complete with alloy wheels and air-conditioning. The range-topping Sport derivative is reserved for the petrol line-up.
Standard equipment on the Mazda2 1.4D TS includes: 15-inch steel wheels, ABS with Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution, driver and passenger front airbags, remote central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows, electric adjustable door mirrors, driver seat height adjust, CD radio with auxiliary jack and two speakers, multi‑function glovebox with magazine rack and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser.

The new Mazda2 1.4D TS2 model has 11 additional equipment items including: 15-inch alloy wheels, side and curtain airbags, body coloured electric, heated folding door mirrors, body coloured door handles, two additional audio speakers (total four), 60/40 split rear seats, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, leather steering wheel and gear knob and manual air-conditioning.
Each trim level of Mazda2 diesel is so well equipped that the options list is remarkably short, just metallic or mica paint (£350) and manual air-conditioning for the TS model (£500). Customers ordering a diesel Mazda2 can choose between the same nine exterior colours as offered with the petrol model and two interior colours – Charcoal Black (TS) or Black (TS2) upholstery. Remarkable fuel Economy with reduced Emissions Thanks to its lightweight construction, sophisticated aerodynamics and high torque figure (160Nm compared to the 1.3-litre petrol model’s 122Nm), the new Mazda2 diesel combines lively performance with remarkable fuel economy.

With the diesel engine, Mazda2 accelerates from 0-to-62mph in 15.5 seconds and has a top speed of 101mph. Fuel economy on the combined cycle is a remarkable 65.7mpg, giving a realistic range of almost 600 miles on a single 42.8-litre tank. The engine is Euro 4 compliant and places this Mazda duo in road fund licence band B so an owner will pay just £35 annual road tax.

HOW TO AVOID BEING RIPPED-OFF ON VEHICLE SERVICE OR REPAIR

Complaints about garage repairs and servicing are nearly top of the Trading Standards Office hit list. Overcharging, replacing parts not required and charging for parts not fitted is not uncommon.

Knowing how to avoid a garage rip-off, pass an MOT first time or knowing how to check a vehicle part is actually faulty before it is replaced can avoid a small fortune on unnecessary repair bills.

Mail order specialist, Car Parts Direct provides information on its website to help motorists avoid a garage rip-off and pass an MOT first time. Online videos show how to check if a part is faulty before replacing – all the information is free.
Suggestions include making a scratch mark on the old parts that are supposed to be replaced so you know the parts have actually been changed – not just cleaned. At MOT time beware of using a garage that also carries out repairs - they may look for unnecessary work. Online videos show how to check for worn shock absorbers, brakes and other common failure parts.
Mark Cornwall from Car Parts Direct is well experienced in dealing with, what he refers to as ‘greedy and unscrupulous garages’. He claims his own vehicle was towed in to a franchised dealership following a recent breakdown. He was quoted a whacking £4,376 to repair his vehicle. He immediately had a second opinion and the vehicle was back on the road for £36.25. No parts were required – just a clean of electrical contacts.
Mark Cornwall said, “Trust your instincts, get quotes in writing before having any work carried out and use a garage or tradesman that is recommended. Recognising the honest mechanic from the rogue is not easy - it really is worth learning a little about car maintenance to avoid becoming a victim.”
With garage labour rates ranging from around £35 to over a £100 an hour another alternative is to carry out a service or repair yourself. According to Car Parts Direct more motorists now choose to buy their own car parts online and either carry out the repair or arrange for a garage or friend to do the work at a fixed price – making substantial savings on the cost of vehicle maintenance.

NISSAN’S WINTER WARMERS

Whether it’s coping with the credit crunch or the crunch of snow beneath your feet, Nissan has a range of deals to warm the cockles of your heart this winter.

First off is a handy 3 year servicing deal on all Note models for just £299, or if you prefer, a 0% finance deal with a 30% deposit. Both are available to customers for the next three months. The unconventional Note MPV offers the comfort and practicality of a C-segment car matched to the agility and easy driving qualities of a supermini. There are four trim levels: Visia, Acenta, Acenta R and Tekna, plus 88 PS 1.4 litre and 110 PS 1.6 litre petrol engines and an 86 PS 1.5 litre dCi turbo diesel to choose from.
The QASHQAI crossover has been exceeding all sales forecasts since its launch in March – production at the Sunderland plant was increased by 20% in June and by the end of November, 17,554 had found customers in the UK alone. Customers are being attracted to its combination of a strong, distinctive design which sits between a traditional hatchback style and a more robust, elevated SUV shape.
Now, models featuring the All-Mode four-wheel drive system, which ensures drive is transferred instantly to the wheels with most grip to provide enhanced security in the current slippery conditions, are available with 3 years 0 per cent finance with a 30 per cent deposit. There’s a choice of either a 140 PS 2.0-litre petrol engine or a 150 PS 2.0-litre diesel unit. Alternatively, you can choose a QASHQAI of your choice, including all two-wheel drive models, through Nissan’s own personal contract plan known as Preferences with a low rate finance of 5.9% APR.
If sure footed ability during the poorer weather conditions is what you want but need further storage / passenger space than the QASHQAI can offer then Nissan is also providing 3 years 0 per cent finance, with a 30% deposit, on the range topping 4x4 Aventura grades of the Pathfinder, Navara and X-TRAIL.
The low monthly payment scheme ‘Preferences’ is also available on the new X-TRAIL offering a low rate of 5.9 per cent APR over a choice of 2 or 3 years. And, the company will even throw in £1000 towards your deposit.

The elegant Micra hatchback has just undergone a revamp for 2008 with changes to the styling, additions to the equipment list and a new grade structure – adding even further to its value-for-money proposition. On top of that, between now and the end of March, customers can choose to buy the two Micra flagship models powered by the 110 PS 1.6-litre engine using a 3 years 0 per cent finance deal. The pocket ‘street racer’ Micra 160 SR offers sub-10 second acceleration to 62 mph, stiffer suspension and group 6 insurance, and is as handy about town as it is chuckable through corners. The Micra Active Luxury on the other hand is aimed at stylish, city-living small car buyers looking for a taste of contemporary luxury and prestige in their cars.
For those thinking ahead to warmer weather, there are also deals to be had on the elegant Micra C+C. Again, 0 per cent finance is offered over a 3 year period on all models with the exception of the entry level Visia grade. Prices start at £14,400 for the 1.6-litre Acenta rising to £15,645 for the range-topping 1.6-litre Active Luxury model.
The C+C’s folding hard top offers the option of fresh air for the hardy, and a snug, cosy cabin insulated against the elements for the rest of us. And even with the roof up, the thermally-insulated C-VIEW® glass panel means you can make the most of those classic crisp winter days. If the sun gets a little too bright then there’s always a retractable sunblind that can be pulled across.

New Year Resolution? Read the New Highway Code!

THE VERY best New Year resolution any driver can make is to buy, read and act on the 2007 revised edition of the Highway Code says road safety champion GEM Motoring Assist (GEM).GEM, formerly known as the Guild of Experienced Motorists, is concerned that very few people revisit the Highway Code once they have passed their test. It says that the Code that has been around for more than 75 years and has made a great contribution to road safety but that driving conditions today are very different to even a few decades ago when many people using our roads today would have taken the test. David Williams, Chief Executive of GEM, said: “The new Code is essential reading for all road users whether they are pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders or drivers. It contains the very latest rules of the road and many of these are legal requirements.”In summary the new edition that was issued in September contains 29 more rules than before - it includes a new section on rules for users of powered wheelchairs and powered scooters; features a safety code for new drivers to help them through the very vulnerable first 12 months; it explains new legislation on vehicle emissions and smoking in vehicles that are used for work and outlines new road initiatives like home zones and quiet lanes active traffic management schemes.David said: “I am very pleased that much more emphasis has been placed throughout the Code on courtesy, attitude, awareness and consideration for other road users. These are points GEM has always emphasised and our 65,000 members have to agree to drive with care, courtesy and concentration.”Costing just £2.50 the revised Highway Code is available from bookshops or can be downloaded from the government web site with a link provided by GEM from its site at www.motoringassist.com that also provides more details of GEM’s work for road safety and the services it provides to road users.

Latest Bike News

NEW BIKES PLUS POWER AND TORQUE INJECTION FOR HYOSUNG
New 650 and 450 bikes and fuel injection upgrade for NEC Bike Show

New 650 and 450cc bikes, a new 125cc scooter and technical upgrades including fuel injection mean riders are set to take Hyosung just a little more seriously when the South Korean manufacturer debuts its new bikes at this year’s NEC International Motorcycle Show.

New GT650X
The star of the stand is likely to be the new Hyosung GT650X – a different and individual take on the street-fighter style with a completely new tubular frame and sharp styling. The engine is a development of Hyosung’s familiar 647cc 90 degree V-twin, with double overhead valves and four valves per cylinder. But with electronic fuel injection, power output is now 82bhp with improved fuel efficiency, more low speed torque (67Nm at 7,250rpm) and stronger performance. Vibration is minimised by counterbalancing and a new oil cooler aids performance and durability. The exhaust system is kept low and central for mass centralization.


New RX450SM

For the first time, Hyosung is bringing a single cylinder, 450cc bike to the range. The new RX450SM is unashamedly a supermotard-style bike, designed for serious fun, but it would also make a great city commuter bike. It was designed using Hyosung’s ‘form follows function’ philosophy; it has a simple, elegant line, yet looks very purposeful.

The engine is a liquid-cooled DOHC four valve single cylinder, with an aluminium silicon (Si) sleeve for more power and durability. The aluminium alloy comprises over 30 per cent Si and is the only alloy of its type currently in production. A PF die-cast piston is more durable and exhibits less thermal expansion than normal cast and applied steel (FE) pistons. Vibration is reduced by counter-balancing. Power output is 50bhp at 8,500rpm.

New SX125 scooter

Conceived as short-to-mid range urban transport, the new Hyosung SX125 scooter is compact and very easy to ride, but with 16 inch wheels and a quality finish, it can easily handle today’s rough roads and looks every bit a serious piece of machinery.

It is powered by the same 125cc engine found in the Hyosung MS3 introduced earlier this year. The single cylinder 124cc engine uses double overhead camshafts and four valves with water cooling. An electric starter and automatic CVT transmission make for easy riding, and the SX125 has been designed for comfort with little or no fatigue.

Hyosung 650s : All Hyosung 650 V-twin engines gain electronic fuel injection for more power and torque.


The GT650X, RX450SM and SX125 will arrive in 2008 with prices yet to be set.


Every model has a full two year warranty and one year’s roadside assistance.

There are currently 16 models in the fast-growing Hyosung range from 125cc to 650cc, including cruisers, sports and commuter bikes, supermotard and off-road, scooters and a road-legal quad. Prices range from £1,949 to £4,999.

Hyosung range is available at 88 dealers around the country and on-line at

www.hyosung.co.uk.

The Hyosung stand at this year’s Bike Show will be in Hall 1 from November 23 to December 2