Gilera Fuoco 500ie (2007-current)

A simple twist and go CVT auto-transmission with extra twist in the form of a punchy 492.7cc four-stroke single. Not a cheap Chinese effort but a modern 4-valve, liquid-cooled emissions compliant unit. To be honest the steel tubular frame and running gear is a lot to pull and acceleration isn’t the best when faced with a hill. But from the lights it’ll leave cars standing and go on to sit at 70mph all day every day.     

Take a test ride and be amazed at what you can do with the Fuoco – that is after you get your head around the way you lean as normal through the bends although there are two wheels ahead of you! Those wheels are both braked to make emergency stops panic-free affairs. You’d have to be a complete muppet to crash a Fuoco – there’s enough grip from the front to lean as far as the exhaust and stand will allow. Cantilevered front suspension (independent tilting wheels) works on four aluminium arms supporting two steering tubes and keeps the front glued to the road. The rear end is equally as well damped. 

Styled to surprise, the twin-headlight front end looks every bit mad as a quad special. Underseat storage is huge, enough to get a six-place Chinese take-away in their let alone waterproofs and helmet. There are also fancy electronics which lock the bike upright when at standstill (if you want to) and releases when accelerating from standstill. Add to this quality tyres, brakes and suspension and you have a superb package. Compare and buy parts for the Fuoco in the MCN Shop.