New trikes could save lives, say importers

Three-mendous: Jamie Lovell of importers Torc astride the new Glide tricycle, which promises to boost road safety (Photograph supplied)



Slalom safety: Indpendent front wheel suspension on the new Glide trike shown by Torc's Alex Marshall (Photograph supplied)



A tricycle built for two could save lives on Bermudas roads, the importers said yesterday.

Team Oni Racing Club has customised and imported the Torc Glide  which features two wheels at the front with a revolutionary tilting suspension and one at the rear.

Jamie Lovell of Torc said: Its excellent for anyone who has ever fallen off a bike and lost confidence, people with children and the elderly who want to be more mobile and even the very young rider just starting out.

Mr Lovell said the Glide also features a front bumper and crumple zone to add protection in a front end collision.

He said the slalom-style front wheels tilt into corners, which makes sure tyres stay stuck to the road.

This gives it excellent handling, balance and grip. People dont have to worry about sliding out or sliding across the road.

Mr Lovell explained: The wheel rolls on a joint  when a rider leans the bike, the front wheels lean as well and it keeps all the wheels firmly planted on the road.

He added the wider front end  eight inches more than a standard scooter  meant dangerous third-laning would be discouraged, which would also contribute to road safety.

Mr Lovell said: The great advantage is you eliminate third-lane traffic with this bike.

And he added: We believe it can cut the death rate on our roads and it can be used by locals and tourists.

And it will help save lives if an accident does happen.

Mr Lovell said: Its not classed as a car either, so people can have one or more per household. And the crash zone is a first for Bermuda bikes.

The 50cc two-seater machine, which can be driven on an ordinary bike licence, also features triple disc brakes on all three wheels for extra stopping power.

It also has adjustable suspension for a softer or firmer ride.

Mr Lovell and business partner Alex Marshall have already imported sleek racing-style electric motorcycles  and said they wanted to bring in an battery-powered version of the glide.

Mr Marshall explained that current Transport Control Department rules forbid fitting the Glide with a bigger conventional engine or an electric one.

But he added: We would prefer to convert the Torc Glide to electric with TCD approval. This will give the trike consistent power when towing or going over hills.

Well add reverse assist and many other great features  plus having no emissions will help keep Bermuda beautiful.

The Glide also features underseat storage, a glove box, a rear carrier with an optional basket, a self-balancing switch, dual stand and automatic transmission.

The trike is available for $4,850 which includes TCD registration.

For more information, visit oniracingclub.com, e-mail torc@oniracingclub.com or call 703-9788 or 777-2539