Motorcycle.com recently announced its picks for the best motorcycles of 2011. The best motorcycles are carefully selected after riding the bikes that made it to dealerships within the past year. And it was no surprise to see that the Genuine Stella 4-Stroke was selected the best scooter of 2011- Congratulations!

From Genuine:

“Stella has been available since 2002, and just this year officially introduced the 2012 Four Stroke variant which is indeed a milestone. It no longer has a “monocoque” chassis and had to undergo a total chassis re-design to accept the brilliant new motor which was designed 100% in India, with love! The two-year, unlimited mile warranty with full roadside assistance sets this scooter apart from others, together with the 4-speed “twist-grip” shifting that creates such fabulous economy!”

The post And the best scooter of 2011 is… first appeared on scootcats.

Have you heard of the Moto-Grip? The product offers protection against accidental ejection of the motorcycle passenger. Whether it is a scooter or a motorcycle, most provide no backrest protection for the passenger.

The Moto-Grip is a safety harness equipped with two sets of padded handgrips on the front and rear of the harness. The harness is worn by the operator and the handgrips are held by the passenger.

The product designed by a NYC firm, Hatch Ventures,  is available in three sizes and each size is fully adjustable to accommodate additional outerwear for inclement weather riding.

Source: Press Release, Hatch Ventures LLC, New York, August 9, 2011

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Lambretta: This is Not an Imitation!

MILAN, August 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ —

With reference to the statement sent on 2^nd August 2011 by Lambretta SA (company in liquidation) to the press agencies worldwide, the companies Motom Electronics Group S.p.a. (MEG) and Clag International Ltd (CLAG) jointly specify as follows:

1) The trademark Lambretta was sold in 1972 by the Innocenti family, founder of the brand, to an Indian company called “Scooters India Ltd” (SIL).

2) In 2006, SIL granted a license for the use of the trademark Lambretta to an English company called Fine White Line Ltd. (FWL).

3) In 2010, FWL granted sub licenses for the use of the trademark Lambretta to MEG and CLAG for Class 12 products (engine power vehicles).

MEG and CLAG therefore use the trademark Lambretta by virtue of license agreements which allow them to sell, in most countries of the world, scooters with the trademark Lambretta.

Despite the legitimacy of the use of the mark Lambretta by MEG and CLAG, the “Lambretta Consortium”  for several years has been trying to revoke the rights of the original Lambretta trademark, owned by SIL, alleging that the trademark had not been put to genuine use, with the purpose of prevailing with subsequent registrations of the trademark Lambretta made by the Consortium.

The Court in Milan (Italy) with three decisions (decision n. 8912/2010 of the 7.7.2010; injunction of 26.11.2008; injunction of 30.5.2011) has established that the trademark Lambretta owned by the Company SIL is valid and cannot be revoked and decided that so far there are no reasons to consider terminated the sub-license contract for the use of the trademark Lambretta.

Defeated in the Italian courts, the Lambretta Consortium is seeking to stop the industrial and commercial activities of MEG and CLAG, by taking actions around the world aimed at preventing suppliers and distributors of the legitimate sub-licensees from continuing the collaboration with MEG and CLAG.

At present the Lambretta Consortium is issuing press releases worldwide. In addition, the Lambretta Consortium filed an application to the OAMI, the European trademark and patent office, in order to register under the name of its holding company, Lambretta Srl, the intellectual property of the industrial models of a scooter designed and previously registered by CLAG.

These actions will be pursued before via MEG and CLAG’s lawyers.

MEG and CLAG, confident of their rights, wish to inform their clients and suppliers that they continue with their industrial and commercial network, the re-launch around the world of the mythical brand Lambretta, of which they confirm to be legitimate sub-licensees.

Motom Electronics Group S.p.a.

Clag International Ltd

SOURCE:  Clag International Ltd

Also see related posts:

Lambretta Consortium takes action against LN125/LS125

Lambretta Brand in the US?

The post Motom and Clag reply to Lambretta Consortium with a Press Release first appeared on scootcats.

Lambretta Consortium (LC) is taking action against the sales and distribution of LN 125 /LS 125.  On their website, the LC is asking all importers/distributors engaged in the LN 125 /LS 125 to immediately cease and desist from distributing, marketing, offering for sale, advertising, ordering any product bearing the trademark LAMBRETTA. The consortium explains that the sub-licenses issued to Motom and Clag were terminated due to contract breaches and that any scooters commercialized and distributed by these companies (specifically the LN 125 and LS 125) cannot carry the LAMBRETTA trademark.

The following press release was issued by Lambretta SA on August 2, 2011:

Lambretta Initiates Biggest Anti-counterfeit Operation in History

DUBLIN, August 2, 2011 /PR Newswire/-

International scooter icon Lambretta Consortium headquartered in Milan, Italy is initiating one of the largest trademark counter-infringement operations in recent history, by preventing the unlicensed LN125 and LS125 scooters entering the world market under the name Lambretta. In a joint international operation with its legal force, customs and police authorities, the consortium is taking international action to protect its brand rights.

The operation is directed against two former licensees; Ireland based Clag International and Italy based Motom Electronics Group Spa.

Additonally, actions are taken against the Taiwanese LN125 / LS125 scooter manufacturers Her Chee Industrial Co Ltd. acting under the name ‘Adly’ and Gamax Moto Corporation.

Finally, Lambretta is taking protective measures against the expanding network of importers and distributors in Europe, Asia, Oceania and America. Even trusted distributors and reputed magazines are involved, not being aware of the illegal character of the introduction of the new LN125 / LS125 scooter models. Cease and desist letters have been sent to all known distributors, to make them fully aware of the implications of their illegal activities.

Lambretta has issued official statements on its global websites (http://www.lambretta.com) to warn the public not to issue pre-payments to the local distributors. Moreover, a list is published on the website of all distributors that are involved in these fraudulent acts.

The consortium together with its lawyers and the authorities have uncovered worrying facts about the infringing activities. Shell companies and trusts like ‘DBM Lambretta International Srl’ and professional appearing websites like http://www.lambrettaoriginale.com, http://www.lambretta-italia.it andhttp://www.lambrettamotorcycles.com with changing owners, have been used in an attempt to hide activities and networks from Lambretta.

Lambretta emphasizes that the only legitimate organization to enter scooter licensing agreements on behalf of Lambretta Consortium is Lambretta Distribution ltd. based in Althorp, United Kingdom.

More information :

Lambretta Licensing Ltd. Ireland
Mr Steven Wilch
+44-160-477-1239

Also see related posts:

Lambretta Brand in the US?

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BMW Motorrad Concept Vehicle BMW E-Scooter. Innovative development study with electric drive.

Space is becoming increasingly scarce in the major conurbation centres and traffic density is growing continuously. Political and social conditions are changing. All these factors coalesce in increasing demands in terms of private transportation. The concept vehicle BMW E-Scooter with electric drive provides an innovative look at changing urban mobility needs.

While the currently available, purely electrically-powered scooters have been almost exclusively used inside towns and cities to date due to their perform- ance and range, which makes them suitable for short distances only, the concept vehicle BMW E-Scooter offers a much broader spectrum of use.

High range and excellent performance figures.

Since it was conceived as a future-oriented vehicle for commuting between urban areas and the city centre, therefore attracting funding from the German Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development, there were two main requirements for its development: dynamic figures comparable to those of a maxi scooter with a combustion engine and a high range in realistic conditions of use.

The concept vehicle BMW E-Scooter provides the necessary sustained output and maximum speed for safe and reliable overtaking on urban motorways and also when carrying two people. It is also easily capable of managing hill starts on steep slopes with a pillion passenger.

The development study also has the necessary maximum output to be able to achieve acceleration figures within the important 0 – 60 km/h range, which are at the level of current maxi scooters powered by a 600 cc combustion engine.

The high storage capacity of the battery allows a daily driving range of over 100 kilometres. In this way, the BMW E-Scooter concept vehicle provides a long-term, zero-emissions urban and suburban travel option which is suitable for everyday use.

Fast charging at conventional power sockets.

The E-Scooter concept vehicle’s battery is charged at regular household power sockets as found in Europe, the USA, Canada and Japan, so no special charging station is required. When the battery is completely flat, the charging period is less than three hours. However, practical experience has shown that the battery rarely runs out completely, so charging times are generally shorter.

Frame.

Unlike existing maxi scooters with combustion engines, the concept vehicle does not have a main frame. Instead, the aluminium battery casing — which also contains the electronic system required for battery cell monitoring — takes over the function of the frame. The steering head support is connected to it, as is the rear frame and the left-hand mounted single swing arm with directly hinged, horizontally installed shock absorber.

Electric machine, power electronics and charging device.

Due to its high output, the BMW Motorrad development study has no hub motor with direct drive or planetary gearbox. Instead, the high-performance electric machine is mounted behind the battery casing. The secondary drive consists of a toothed belt from the electric machine to the belt pulley mounted coaxially on the swinging fork pivot with drive pinion. From here, power transmission occurs via roller chain to the rear wheel. When the E-Scooter is decelerated in trailing throttle or when braking, the energy re- leased is recuperated, thereby increasing the vehicle’s range by between 10 and 20 per cent depending on driving profile.

The electrical components required for the electric drive are installed on the top of the battery casing. The external battery electronics system perma- nently collects and monitors data such as the temperature and voltage of the battery cells, both during travel and while charging. The power electronics acts as a control system and controls the electric machine. The charging device includes a charge cable which allows the battery to be recharged at a conventional household power socket. In addition to the other components like an ISO insulation monitor, high-voltage indicator and a high-voltage distributor, a DC-DC converter is included. It is required to change high voltage to low voltage power to supply the 12 volt vehicle supply and especially for the control units.

Cooling system.

During travel, the electric machine and power electronics are liquid-cooled, as is the charging device during charging. An electric coolant pump ensures coolant circulation through the radiator. While a coolant is commonly used for the battery in electrically powered cars, the E-Scooter concept vehicle uses an air cooling system in order to save space.

Safety.

BMW Motorrad is one of the very few motorcycle manufacturers to be able to draw on its own experience and expertise in the automobile field in the development of electrically powered vehicles. Synergies are derived from the development of the BMW E-Scooter concept vehicle not just in the ready availability of technical components but also in the area of high voltage engineering and the associated safety requirements. Here for the first time, standards established by the leading automobile manufacturers relating to high voltage safety (> 60 volt) and functional reliability are being applied to a two-wheel vehicle with electric drive. (Source: BMW Group)

Watch the videos below to see the BMW E-Scooter in action.

Also see related posts:

BMW’s Concept C in Paris

No Comment… BMW’s Scooter Concept C Video

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Piaggio Group announces new Aprilia brand scooter, SR Max 125/300 for grand touring.

June 21, 2011, Piaggio Group, Press Release – SR Max is the new Aprilia scooter which brings the Piaggio Group racing brand into the grand touring segment. Available in the 125 cc or 300 cc version, SR Max puts the Aprilia sport spirit on the road for pure enjoyment and riding pleasure.

Aprilia SR Max interprets the performance and grit of the products from the Noale manufacturer in GT style: the scooter inspired by the racing world which guarantees top performance and great versatility is born.

SR Max, stands out at first glance. An aggressive design traced by taught lines reflects the sport nature of a vehicle which sets itself apart with style and an explosive shape.

The compact but light nose holds the aesthetic dynamism of the headlight assembly: A silver coloured grille is inserted between the two lights, a simple, thin screen which gives the SR Max 125 cc and 300 cc an energetic expression. The graphics which encompass the light and the air intakes create a “contrast” with the vehicle colouring, together with the “three-coloured” scheme, which are flaunted on the upper part of the shield, give the SR Max elegance and an unmistakable style.

The sleek and sharp tail fairing enhance the explosiveness of the rear of SR Max, its agility highlighted by the generous, but slender underbelly where Aprilia is emblazoned in silver.

The two-colour saddle is made from a sport fabric and is highly ergonomic: equipped with lumbar support for the rider, it guarantees comfort in any conditions; the handles which frame the rear part of the saddle guarantee safety and reliability for the passenger.

Suitable for every day travel, but also designed to provide an exciting ride for longer trips, Aprilia SR Max, in the 125 and 300 versions, has top-notch motoring qualities and cycling features in any situation.
Both the SR Max 125 and the SR Max 300 have large scooter suspension: a hydraulic shock absorber with 35mm traditional telescopic fork is mounted on the front, while on the rear a pair of 3 position adjustable spring preload shock absorbers work to guarantee optimum balance of the vehicle.

The 125cc and 300cc hearts are the true strength of the Aprilia SR Max.

The single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4 valve 125 version, equipped with electronic injection, reaches a power of 15 HP at 9,250 rpm: the maximum power and torque values are absolute benchmarks and ensure quick acceleration and disciplined pick up for the Aprilia SR Max, all to the advantage of perfect gear fluidity.

Aprilia SR Max 300 is equipped with a single cylinder 4 valve liquid cooled, electronic injected engine;  characterised by a 75 mm bore and 63 mm stroke, it reaches maximum torque of 23 Nm at 6000 rpm. The result is excellent torque distribution and consequently energetic acceleration.

Aprilia SR Max 125 and 300 are available in the two classic and elegant colour schemes of Nero Aprilia and Bianco Glam.

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Honda EV-neo

Honda announced last week that its zero emission, electric scooter, EV-neo, will make its European debut in Barcelona starting July 2011. For the demonstration program, Honda will provide Barcelona city council with 18 EV-neos for a year. Motorcycles account for 30% of vehicles in Barcelona, and a wide range of incentives already exist for electric vehicles in the city. The program will serve to test the EV-neo in European conditions.

The EV-neo is already available for sale in Japan for a price of 5750USD. Honda is expecting to sell 1000 units in Japan until the end of the year.

Source: Press Release by Honda, June 15, 2011

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Chicago Associates has recapitalized Genuine Scooters LLC and its parent company Scooterworks USA. This means Genuine Scooters, headquartered in Chicago, with flagship brands Buddy and Stella will continue to grow in the future, competing with world famous brands in the US markets.

The Company also sells scooter parts and accessories, and operates a scooter dealership in Chicago, under the names Scooterworks USA and Scooterworks Chicago, respectively.

Soure: Press Release by Chicago Associates, May 10, 2011

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With a new electric scooter popping up every other day and the rise of gas prices and the environmental effects of our carbon emissions, who knows what we will be riding in 10 years from now… Wait, but are we ready for the electric vehicles?

That’s why CleanTech OC in Orange County is hosting a symposium on plug-in electric vehicles. This event will feature three panels and a variety of speakers from throughout the industry, discussing the opportunities and challenges our communities and state face with the wider adoption of plug-in electric vehicles.

When:
Wednesday, May 11. Symposium will be held 1:30 – 5:30pm. Reception and electric vehicle expo will be held 5:30 – 7:30 PM.

Where:
UC Irvine Student Center – Pacific Ballrooms. First 200 attendees can park for free in Student Center Parking Structure adjacent to the facility. A311 Student Center, Irvine 92697.

Why:
Now that the major OEMs are rapidly introducing plug-in electric vehicles to the consumer market, our cities and the State of California will soon face a variety of challenges and opportunities related to the wider adoption of PEVs. Utilities will have to be strategic in upgrading the grid, cities will need to trim red tape for permitting EV charging infrastructure, and the State will have to determine whether it is financially feasible to continue extending tax credits to those purchasing PEV’s and providing grants for cities that prepare for wider adoption.

Soure: Press Release by CleanTech OC, May 9, 2011

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May 5, 2011, Vectrix, Press Release – The world leader in Personal Electric Vehicles, announces two Vectrix clean energy scooters, the VX-1 Li/Li+ and VX-2 have won “European e-Scooter of the Year” at the prestigious Circuit Zolder “Clean Week 2020” event launch (www.cleanweek2020.be) May 3^rd to 5^th, 2011 in Belgium. Vectrix’s two “European e-Scooter of the Year” awards come closely on the heels of last month’s European debut of the Vectrix VX-1 Li/Li+ and VX-2 at AutoRAI 2011 in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

The rigorous competition was judged by a prominent panel of automotive and motorcycle journalists from Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, France, Spain, Scandinavia, U.K., Italy, Switzerland, and Austria using challenging criterion that included Ecoscore (consumption, emissions, and noise), Driving Range, Recycling, Refilling/Reloading, Price, Performance/Consumption, Aesthetics/Styling, Drivability, Availability in the Market, and Quality of the Press Kit. The Circuit Zolder “Clean Week 2020” award categories included e-Scooters (under 25 km/h/15 mph, under 45 km/h/30 mph, and over 45 km/h/30 mph), e-Bicycle, e-Quadricycle, and e-Bike (on-road, off-road, and MX). The Vectrix electric VX-1 Li/Li+ won the “over 45 km/h (30 mph)” class and the VX-2 won the “under 25 km/h (15 mph)” class.

“Vectrix is extremely proud to take home the European e-Scooter of the Year awards for both our clean energy VX-1 Li/Li+ and our VX-2,” said Brian Buccella, Vectrix Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We are so happy to be recognized by such a prestigious panel of experts who understand the value, performance, and cost-effectiveness of our Vectrix electric scooters. To win one category is awesome. To win two categories out of two is simply incredible. It is truly a tribute to the Vectrix core technology and design inherent in every Vectrix vehicle we produce.”

VX-1 Li/Li+: Perfect for consumer, police, and security applications, the zero-gas emission Vectrix VX-1 Li and Li+ are the latest generation of Vectrix’s flagship vehicle, the VX-1. The clean energy Vectrix VX-1 now offers two new lithium battery options — the VX-1 Li — a 30-amp hour battery, and the VX-1 Li+ — a 42-amp hour battery.

The VX-1 is powerful and fast providing superior handling due to a low center of gravity, stiff frame, and even weight distribution. With a curb weight of 193 kg (425 pounds) for the VX-1 Li and 209 kg (460 pounds) for the VX-1 Li+, both bikes are capable of speeds up to 110 km/h (68 mph). The VX-1 Li has a range of up to 64 to 96 km (40 to 60 miles) and the VX-1 Li+ has a range of up to 88 to 136 km, (55-85 miles) [depending on factors like terrain, weight, etc.]. The VX-1 Li accelerates from 0-92 km/h (0-50 mph) in 6.0 seconds and the VX-1 Li+ accelerates from 0-92 km/h (0-50 mph) in 6.25 seconds. Both new VX-1 Li and Li+ models come standard with the patented Vectrix Multi-Function Throttle which provides regenerative braking for maximization of range and a slow-speed reverse for ease-of-use while parking as well as the patented rugged Vectrix rear-wheel mounted planetary gear drive. Both new VX-1 models come with a 1.5 kW on-board battery charger that plugs into a standard 110V/220V and features a recharge time of around 3 to 4 hours for the VX-1 Li and 4 to 6 hours for the VX-1 Li+. Both VX-1s are incredibly cost-effective to operate and produce zero gas emissions.

The Vectrix VX-1 is available in White, Black, Silver, Red, Blue, and Green. The MSRP for the VX-1 Li is EUR 8,850 (not including VAT) and the VX-1 Li+ is EUR 10,050 (not including VAT). For more information, please visit www.vectrix.com.

Key Features of the Vectrix VX-1 Li/Li+:

• All-electric with zero emissions — no need for oil or gas, and virtually silent operation. Plugs into any standard 110/220V outlet and charges battery to 80% capacity in 2.5 hours.
• Powerful and fast — Rapidly accelerates to a top speed of 110 km/h (68 mph). Zero to 92 km/h (60 mph) in as little as 6.0 seconds.
• Range up to 136 km (85 miles) on a single charge, due to battery pack energy density and our unique regenerative braking technology.
• Superior handling due to a low center of gravity, quality components, and even weight distribution.
• Low Maintenance — with no oil, no filters, and no clutch your cost of ownership is minimal.
• Patented Vectrix Multi-Function Throttle provides regenerative braking to maximize range possibilities and a slow-speed reverse for greater maneuverability and easy parking
• Patented Vectrix integrated rear-wheel mounted single stage planetary gear drive.
• Low noise for reduced sound pollution

VX-2: The all-new Vectrix VX-2 is designed to be the ideal choice for shorter trips — from across town to across campus. The alternative energy VX-2 is the perfect machine for lower-speed urban, neighborhood, and small-town trips. The VX-2 is the electric equivalent of a 50cc internal combustion engine and is smaller and slimmer than other Vectrix models.

The clean energy Vectrix VX-2 is capable of speeds up to 45 km/h (30 mph) and has a range of up to 64 to 88 kilometers (40 to 55 miles) [depending on factors like terrain, weight, driving habits, etc.]. The VX-2 comes standard with the patented Vectrix Multi-Function Throttle which provides regenerative braking to maximize the operating range and a slow-speed reverse for maneuvering in tight spaces. Each VX-2 comes with a 48V/20A battery charger that plugs into a standard 110V/220V and features a recharge time of around 3.5 to 5 hours.

The VX-2’s lower profile and lighter weight make it a solid choice for riders seeking responsiveness and maneuverability needed for tight urban centers and congested traffic. The VX-2 offers advanced technology, intuitive controls, and solid, steel-tube chassis construction which makes it just as reliable and exciting as it is affordable.

The VX-2 is available in True Blue, Real Red, Mellow Yellow, Clean Green, Bright White, and Slick Black. The MSRP for the VX-2 is EUR 3,360 (not including VAT). For more information, please visit www.vectrix.com.

Key Features of the Vectrix VX-2 Scooter:

• All- electric with zero emissions — no need for oil or gas, and virtually silent operation. Plugs into any standard 110/220V outlet and charges battery between 3.5 – 5 hours.
• Zero carbon emissions during operation.
• Low Maintenance — with no oil, no filters, and no clutch, your maintenance requirements are minimal.
• Range of up to 88 km (55 miles) [depending on speed, rider weight, and driving habits].
• Top speed of 45 km/h (30 mph).
• Acceleration 0-45 km/h (0-30 mph) in 7 seconds.
• Patented Vectrix Multi-Function Throttle provides regenerative braking to maximize range possibilities and a slow-speed reverse for greater maneuverability and easy parking.
• Low noise for reduced sound pollution.

Also read: Vectrix, not an ordinary electric

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