First test: Jog R and Jog RR

This machine is a phenomenally important two-wheeler. Not convinced? How about the fact that it replaces one of the biggest-sellers in one of Europe’s biggest markets. Still not that fussed? How about that it could be just the thing to ensure you have new R1s and their like into your dotage?

Yamaha is pitching the Jog R and RR (air and liquid-cooled) at the 14-18 age group (how enlightened parts of Europe are).

These are the kids who get their first taste of riding from 50cc scooters. They often drift towards cars as they mature, but if they remember their 50s with affection, they return in later years to demand the kind of bikes we all know and love (anyone hankering for a FS-1E at this point?)

So, it’s bloody important the Jog is fun. Does it deliver? Well, yes, it does actually.

Yes the sun was shining, and yes the versions we rode were full-power and capable of 70kph (44mph) on the clock (as opposed to the limited to 30mph UK ones) but those can’t be the only reasons both machines left me grinning.

Whipping in and through and round and out of Seville’s choking traffic on its 12in wheels was hugely satisfying. Both two-stroke engines are smooth and generate enough torque through the automatic twist-and-go transmission to drag my 16 stone bulk along without complaint. The suspension happily dealt with cobbles and kerbs and the 190mm front disc brake made short work of the random direction changes of taxis, trucks, cars, and the occasional horse and carriage.

Yamaha is very proud of the light but stiff frame and that certainly contributes to its ability to change direction at the drop of a manhole cover. The liquid-cooled one is 2kg heavier but accelerates slightly faster. You only really spot the difference if you ride them back to back.

Style is all-important in this market and the Jog gets a clean and dynamic look thanks to integral indicators and the lack of a radiator grill on the front. Air is sucked in through scoops in the body.

If it’s practicality you’re after, it comes with a large, lockable underseat area (guess what? You can fit a full-face lid in it), a luggage hook and a low 770mm seat height.

The air-cooled Jog R version will be available in the UK from March, in silver or white and is likely to cost £1400-£1500. Yamaha UK is hopeful of offering a tempting package including some form of insurance deal. The Jog RR is due later in the year in blue or red. Expect that to cost a few hundred pounds more.

Yamaha Jog R and Jog RR: AvailabilityMarch 2002 (LC, later this year)

Deals, offers and bonuses: Not yet finalised. Expect an insurance deal

Colours: Jog R White, Silver/Jog RR Blue, Red

Insurance Group: One

Engine:49cc, two-stroke, single-cylinder

Power and torque: N/a

Weight: Jog R 76kg, Jog RR, 78kg

Top speed: UK versions 30mph

Fuel tank: Five litres

OUR VERDICT: Engine: 85 per cent, Handling: 87 per cent, Braking: 82 per cent, Comfort: 88 per cent, Grin factor: 90 per cent, Overall: 87 per cent