Urban traffic congestion is a major problem in many European cities, and is set against a background of increased environmental awareness and the squeeze on many consumers’ disposable incomes.
The landscape of personal mobility is set to change drastically, and Yamaha is working to develop New Mobility solutions designed to facilitate and encourage the adoption of a new mindset amongst urban commuters.
Despite the availability of a wide choice of scooters, a huge number of commuters continue to make their daily journey into the city using public transport or a car. In addition to these non-riding members of the public, there are also those riders who currently commute on 2-wheels – or may have done so in the past – and are attracted by the increased feeling of stability and riding confidence that are associated with a new 3-wheel concept.
The all-new Tricity is the first model in Yamaha’s New Mobility segment, and it represents a new solution to the issue of personal transportation. Unlike some other larger and heavier multi wheel scooter-style vehicles, the Tricity has been developed using a completely different approach in which lightness, sportiness, agility and ease of use are the key elements.
The Tricity’s exclusive new Leaning Multi Wheel (LMW) mechanism has been developed specifically by Yamaha for our New Mobility vehicles, and it features a patented system that is designed to create a good feeling of stability, combined with a sporty and agile handling character.
Hidden behind the lightweight front cowl, a lightweight parallelogram link gives the rider the ability to lean the Tricity in much the same way as a conventional 2-wheel scooter. The parallelogram link’s component parts are connected to the forks and the frame’s steering head, and when the Tricity rider enters a turn this system allows the twin front wheels to lean over in parallel. While leaning over, the track (distance between the twin front wheels) remains almost consistent, and this ensures a natural and intuitive feel during cornering.
Another key element of Yamaha’s new LMW mechanism is the use of special tandem-type cantilevered telescopic front forks that feature two separate tubes for each wheel. The rear fork tubes function as guides, while the front fork tubes handle the shock absorbing functions to deliver smooth cushioning throughout the 90mm stroke. The suspension system on each front wheel operates completely independently, and this gives a smooth and stable feel over bumpy road surfaces and in changing road conditions.
Powering the Tricity is a newly developed 125cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke engine that has been designed to produce good acceleration from low speeds, together with smooth higher speed operation. The engine benefits from specially designed intake and exhaust systems that enhance performance in typical urban stop/start situations, making the Tricity a strong performer in congested city streets.
This new engine is equipped with a special cylinder that has been developed using Yamaha’s leading casting technology. Manufactured from aluminium alloy with specific silicon content, this lightweight cylinder has no steel sleeve, and the piston runs directly onto an aluminium bore. This unique design gives excellent heat distribution, which in turn contributes towards stable engine performance and improved lubricant life.
For high levels of economy the new engine is equipped with Yamaha’s exclusive YMJET-FI fuel injection system that ensures high combustion efficiency with smooth low speed acceleration, together with a responsive power feeling through the mid and high rpm ranges.
The lively 125cc engine transmits its power to the rear wheel via an efficient CVT transmission for smooth and easy acceleration, making the Tricity an ideal means of transport for customers who have little or no scootering experience.
Weighing just 152 kg with fuel and oil, the defining characteristic of the new Tricity is its light, compact and agile handling feeling that sets Yamaha’s New Mobility engineering philosophy apart from the larger and heavier multi-wheel models available in the market.
With its confidence inspiring 3-wheel design – combined with a fun-to-ride character and a smart, modern image – this revolutionary new model is ready to win the hearts and minds of those non-riding commuters who are ready to make a change to their daily lives. Of course, the Tricity is also sure to find favour with many past and present scooter riders who value the additional benefits that this compact 3-wheel scooter has to offer.
The lightweight bodywork is both strong and easy to clean, making it ideal for the rigours of city life – while the aluminium wheels keep unsprung weight low for agile steering feel together with smooth and responsive suspension characteristics. The strong new tubular frame design also offers a large flat footboard with plenty of space for the rider, while also contributing towards weight reduction.
Just like the rest of this new urban commuter, the instruments are stylish, functional and easy to use. An animated sequence greets the rider when the Tricity is turned on, and the attractive full LCD instrument panel features a central digital speedometer flanked by a clock, air temperature gauge and odometer. The display also includes an array of indicator lights, and the easy to read design displays the relevant information in a clear manner.
To enhance the futuristic styling the Tricity is equipped with dual front LED position lights, and there is also an LED taillight and LED license plate lamp.
Available from Yamaha European dealers in summer 2014, the new Tricity will be priced at less than €4,000, confirming its aim to really create a new segment in the urban commuter market.
