OSAKA AND RIDING I N J A PA N

The Vespa Club in Osaka numbers around 50 members. A separate club, known as the Solows, which also consists of 50 members, exists in the larger Kansai area (the region of which Osaka is a part).Members of both clubs are present at the Osaka ride out. The name Solows curiously, was coined from the Japanese word ‘sourou’ meaning,literally, ‘premature ejaculation’. The idea being, they ride fast. Take that as you will. The Solows are led by Nakata. Hiroshima and Tokyo are the other Japanese cities with sizeable scooter groups. There are subtle musical differences. Some groups are interested in the Mod revival side of things, others are into Northern Soul. Osaka has a population of 2.7 million, and is the nucleus of the wider Kansai region, which has a population of 20 million and, in its own right, an economy which rivals, or is bigger than, some developed countries.Known as the ‘Manchester of the East’, it is, like its English namesake, known for its industrial roots, and down-to-earthiness. Traffic is continuous and often fast-paced, and riders need to be alert. Additionally, many non-Vespa/Lambretta scooter riders,i.e. those on cheaper, smaller plastic scooters, ride irresponsibly.If hit by a smaller vehicle in Japan, blame is automatically apportioned to the larger vehicle. So,if you are riding your 200cc Lambretta, and are struck by a kid on a 50cc scooter,it’s your fault. Riders here always need to have their awareness radars switched on when on the road. Cities are linked by toll motorways – there is no fee exemption for scooters or motorcycles; two-wheeled machines must have a capacity of at least 150cc to use them. It is advisable to avoid such routes, and use B-roads, or country routes.Even on a large capacity motorcycle,it’s a hairy, adrenalin-rushing experience using Japanese toll roads, with aggressive, speeding trucks, and a significant number of truck and car drivers illegally using mobile phones.In towns and cities, red light running is common.