The motorcycle industry can help to cut the economic and ecological cost of getting around in our increasingly crowded cities, according to Stuart Strickland, Senior Director of Honda MPE (a subsidiary of Honda Motor Japan).

Strickland has appealed to local councils and transport authorities to introduce secure parking for small scooters at transport interchanges, to encourage commuters to use them instead of cars.
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The bicycle storage boxes now being made available at some ferry wharves and train stations in Sydney are a step in the right direction,” he says, “but not everyone wants to or can ride a bicycle. Just about everyone can ride a scooter. In some States you can do so with only a car licence.

“For those who are uncertain about their riding ability, proven and effective rider training is available from Honda’s HART centres in Melbourne and Sydney as well as other training organisations.”

One vehicle which could do a lot to reduce the cost of transport and its impact on the ecology is Honda’s inexpensive new 49cc scooter, the Scoopy.

“Vehicles like the Scoopy provide the missing link for commuting,” says Honda MPE chief Stuart Strickland. “Quite apart from their function as a fashion statement, they provide an amazingly convenient and inexpensive way to get to the nearest ferry wharf, bus stop or train station. If you live reasonably close to work you can ride a small scooter all the way.

“By getting you to public transport without stress or fuss, a scooter like the Scoopy can potentially replace the second family car. It uses pretty close to the absolute minimum of natural resources to build and to run, and yet it offers the freedom of individual motorised transport and some protection from the elements as well.”

Strickland is keen to emphasise the social, ecological and economic advantages of the Scoopy, but he is also aware of the fashionable side of its attraction.

“The styling is cheerful and bright, and the design combines a strong fashion statement with great practicality,” he says.

“The Scoopy is also especially easy to ride, partly because of its lightness and partly because of the technology it offers. The automatic transmission means that there are no gears to worry about, the brakes are linked for ease of use and the Scoopy has two effective security systems. There’s even a bag hook behind the leg shield to hold a handbag or some shopping.”

“As well as all that,” Strickland points out, “the Scoopy’s cheerful looks mean that it is a great way to make new friends!”

Honda MPE is the Australian distributors of Honda motorcycles, power equipment and marine products.