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New trikes could save lives, say importers

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

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