Gilera DNA.org

Had to take the bike in this week to get a leak in the coolant system fixed. While it was in I was offered the (free) use of a Piaggio Beverly, so I thought why not and took it home.

First thoughts: Oh my God, it’s so heavy! The controls were exactly the same as the DNA which was good and it was smooth and well balanced. It had NO POWER to speak of but cruised very happily at 20mph. Other motorists gave it a bit of respect which was good but silly as it is way slower than the DNA – just shows how size obsessed they are.

Main problem was the high centre of gravity. When stopped I felt I had to put both feet on the ground to keep it upright as to use just one foot would allow it to tip over. Odd on a ‘learner’ bike. A longer inside leg measurement might have helped but it hasn’t been such a problem on any of my previous machines. And the storage- room for 2 open faced helmets. What’s the point in that?

Maybe I’m just spoilt by the lightness (30Kg less,) low centre of gravity and ability to put the flat of both my feet on the ground that the DNA gives me.  If so I can live with that. My old Yamaha Teo didn’t give me those problems and it had an officially higher seat height.  I’d rather have a Piaggio NRG say, but I will use it again if offered because let’s face it, it’s better than taking the train!