SUZUKI is upping the stakes in the most fiercely contested sector of the biking market with the introduction of three new scooters. As the boom in twist-and-go bike sales continues - the figures have rocketed another 30 per cent from last year - the Japanese maker has unveiled the UX50W Zillion, UC125 Epicuro and AN400 Burgman.

The £1,649 Zillion, which is made for 16-year-olds, has a liquid-cooled 50cc powerplant, automatic transmission, and front hydraulic disc brakes.

The new UC125 Epicuro, priced at £2,674, has a four-stroke engine with the highest horsepower in its class and is matched with chunky suspension and bigger 12in tyres.

It also boasts a 24-litre under-seat storage compartment, large rear carrier, steel security loop and parking brake lever.

Although pandering to the scooter look, the new AN400 Burgman, priced at £4,274, offers motorbike performance yet retains twist-and-go transmission and all-weather protection. Suzuki says it also has a touring range normally associated with much bigger machines.

Story date: Wednesday 10 February

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.