MAN & MACHINE

Name: Paul Marks Scooter club and town: Independent Rider (Northampton) How and when did you first become interested in

scooters: Got my first scooter when I was 16 to use as transport and I have had them ever since. First scooter: PK ETS Favourite scooter model: Vespa 152L2 Favourite style of custom scooter: Street racer First rally or event: Yarmouth ‘95 How did you get there: On a tuned Vespa PK125 Any stories: On the way to Yarmouth ‘95 my friend’s Lambretta series 2 broke down and I had to tow him for about 30 miles! Favourite and worst rally/ event: My first rally was the most memorable as it was such an eventful weekend. Worst was sticky rock Skegness 2000 as it didn’t stop raining all weekend and the campsite flooded. Furthest you’ve ever ridden on a scooter: 184 miles from Northampton to Blackpool in 1999. What do you like about rallies/ events: I enjoy the journey the most but I also enjoy the music and general camaraderie.

What do you dislike about rallies/events: Far too commercialised now, too many campervans and caravans, and not enough riders.

Name of scooter and reason: Dark Star, as that is one of H R Giger’s books Other themes you considered before this one:

Always wanted to do a Matrix theme, possibly with a sidecar outfit. Scooter model: LD 150 with a PX 150 engine Date purchased and cost: Acquired as part of a bulk buy of 17 scooters.

Inspiration for project and theme: Loved H R Giger since I was at school and always wanted to do a scooter with his artwork on, the LD was a perfect scooter as it’s unusual already.

Specialised parts or frame mods: Few small parts have been changed since I purchased it; all parts were from RPM Scooters as they price everything realistically.

Engine spec: Standard PX 150 Describe engine performance, power delivery and

scooter handling: The engine is slow but reliable, it handles well at low speeds but it’s a bit hair-raising at speeds above 45mph. Other unique details: All the runner strips, light brackets and front mudguard were handmade Paintwork and murals: Gatch Hardest part of the project: Convincing my wife that I need another scooter. Advice or tech tips for anyone starting a project:

Dry build before painting. In hindsight, is there anything you would have done differently: No. Anyone you wish to thank: Gatch for all the amazing artwork, Ricki Davis from RPM scooters for the cheap parts, Aaron Watts from Night Owl Scooters, Northampton for selling it to me.