UNDER PRESSURE
With 130 years of experience Michelin know a thing or two about tyres, so the fact that they’ve launched a motorcycle Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) suggests there’s a need.
Whats the problem?
Anyone who’s had a blowout will confirm that it’s no fun. According to the AA, in 2015 almost a third of accidents in the UK in which vehicle defects were a contributory factor were due to under inflated, defective or illegal tyres. With only a few square centimetres of rubber holding us to the road, tyres are one of a scooter’s most important components, yet also one of the most neglected.
What’s the product?
Although they’re standard equipment on many new cars and high-end touring motorcycles, most twowheelers aren’t fitted with a TPMS. Marketed as ‘fit2go’, Michelin’s solution is a portable, retro-fit system that provides real-time updates on tyre pressures and temperatures.
The kit comprises two monitors, which replace the standard dust caps, a USB charger unit and a compact display unit. Once fitted, a WiFi connection keeps the monitors in contact with the display. Pressure readings periodically rotate between front and rear tyres and any sudden changes in pressure or temperature trigger a warning.
What’s it like to use?
It’s claimed that the kit can be fitted in minutes and for most motorcycles that may be true. Indeed, on a Vespa PX its simplicity itself. The monitors screw on in seconds and the display unit’s combined magnet/adhesive base grips the top of the toolbox with ease. Unfortunately for Lambrettas it’s not so straightforward. Although the monitors fit my GP, they don’t seem to be compatible with all fork set ups and finding the recommended ‘flat and magnetic’ surface to mount the display is a challenge. Without doubt this is the product’s Achilles heel. Neither the magnet nor adhesive pad are strong enough to hold the unit on their own and there are surprisingly few places on a Lambretta or Vespa GTS that would mount the unit in view.
Does it work?
Having used the product on his recent ride to Austria, Stan’s been impressed. The fluctuation in tyre pressures over a day’s riding is surprising, often 3 or 4psi. It’s clear to read and ensures the daily tyre pressure check isn’t neglected. Unfortunately, it does need a better mount. Stan lashed up a mirror mount using an old sat-nav holder, which worked fine. Hopefully the manufacturer will act on this feedback.
Verdict
For long-distance tourers it’s a really useful piece of safety equipment. Unfortunately, the product’s mounting fails to impress. RRP: £79.95 More info: www.fit2gotpms.com