ROYAL ALLOY
The new Royal family
Having been given the legal go-ahead to build and sell their range of four-stroke autos, Royal Alloy (note the slight change of name) lost no time in exhibiting at EICMA. First off the mark are the air-cooled GT125s which use the existing factory tooling but with revised panels. Appearing later in the year will be the liquid-cooled, metal-bodied Grand Prix 125 and 200s.
The GP range is notable for its all metal construction, the only plastic panels being its horn cast, mudguard and tool box. The leg-shields have also been redesigned, becoming more similar to a Series 1/2 in appearance. This revised profile allows more leg room for the rider and has also enabled the designers to increase the toolbox’s size. The tool box now incorporates document pockets, a USB charging point and I was assured that the lid is waterproof! Other changes include LED lighting front and rear along with details inspired by Maserati and Audi.
Despite the Grand Prix branding, most of Royal Alloy’s design cues originate with the SX200, including headset and side panels. A rethink of panel fastenings on the GP has eliminated all visible screw heads while still allowing easy removal. Another unusual feature is the split seat. As a tall rider my heart sank when I saw a shaped seat as I’m almost inevitably sat on the ridge. Fortunately the seat’s split line and increased legroom seem to allow a comfortable riding position. Interestingly the seat isn’t secured by a latch but by a series of suckers which plant it firmly on the frame’s canopy.
It may be the new kid on the block but with an increasing model range and variety of engines Royal Alloy is set to be a major player in the international market.