KIWI RIDER APRIL 2018 VOL.2 | Page 68

really snugly. Damn it was like a well worn slipper! Gorgeous. A bit of knee pressure and it flits from side to side and, yes, you can get along at around 125km/h on the motorway in sixth gear, easy. I would own one right now, as my daily commute, street play bike, and summer beach whizzer. I kid you not, it is on the agenda, for when I grow up and get a job. Why am I so enamoured? The quality of this build had my hard-bitten moto-trials mates standing around commenting on everything, from the exceptional front forks to the rear suspension, the brakes, exhaust configuration and overall size, and they all climbed aboard outside MALT and did what riders do - throw it around, bounce it, shove on the forks, peer at the nestled electrics, and grin. So, back to regret. You see this extraordinary little bike, with the huge heart, beautiful street presence, fantastic finish, exemplary handling, and joy of use – is, today, three thousand dollars cheaper than my Vespa. I know, right? For the BMW you pay eight grand and get five bucks back for your first coffee. Just think 68 KIWI RIDER