Got given a Yamaha ‘T-Max 500’ this morning by the garage to get into work, as my bike wasn’t ready - and what an extraordinary device it was…
I was interested to ride one as those who have them seem to rave about them, but it was as bad as I expected. Despite purporting to be a 500 it was slow, with crude suspension, limited clearance and brakes that don’t really do anything. It was vaguely amusing doing an indicated 90 on the motorway on an overgrown Vespa, albeit with a curious reverse buffeting sensation in place caused by the massive screen. Wasn’t even narrow enough to get through traffic properly at the lights.
So I was left thinking whats the point? Granted they are incredibly easy to use around town which is probably enought for some, but that was about the only advantage I could see. Unless of course you’re forced to use one due to mobility issues or similar - then fair play.
The other thing I noticed is that I always seem to get let through, or made space for, by other bikes on the R1 without prompting - not so the scooter, every bike I came across was staying put!