Although the Ape is actually a vehicle for shorter distances, some call it a bonsai pickup, it can also be fun to ride on a longer journey if certain things are taken into account beforehand. As the vehicle basically lacks everything that has to do with comfort, a few precautions must be taken before a trip to ensure that the adventure does not turn into a nightmare.
To do list before the trip
It’s definitely an adventure, so not for the faint-hearted. But daredevils are also out of place, because you shouldn’t just go for it. Planning is the order of the day. We already know why an Ape is so spartanly equipped. But that’s precisely the appeal of a trip. Simply escaping everyday life with its many often boring habits. Being closer to the road than any other vehicle.
Before we even drive one meter, the route has to be meticulously planned. On the road, we don’t have that much time to worry about the details. Once we have chosen our destination, we think about the route. No highway, preferably no steep inclines, because the Ape prefers to ride straight ahead, ideally with a gradient. We look for filling stations along the way, if possible with a garage. It’s best to draw up a map on which we make the appropriate notes. We think about what we absolutely must have on board our Ape. Here is a list of the ten most important things in our opinion (this list is not exhaustive).
- A thirst for adventure
- First-aid kit
- Basic tools, the most necessary spare parts,
- Weatherproof clothing, scooter cover to protect against extreme weather conditions
- Safety vest, warning triangle
- Tow rope, maps or navigation system
- Engine and gearbox oil in small quantities for topping up
- Don’t forget sun protection!
Test ride before the start of the actual journey
A test drive of perhaps 100 or 200 km before the journey can provide important insights into the resilience of man and machine. We get to know the vehicle better than on short trips and gain a feeling for what to expect as the driver of the vehicle on a longer journey.
Maintenance work before the start of the big trip
A comprehensive inspection ensures that we feel safer. A breakdown is sure to happen when you least expect it. Here is a list of the most important work to be carried out:
- Check brakes and brake pads
- Check engine oil, transmission oil, remove soot from spark plugs and/or replace if necessary
- Check tyre tread and air pressure, change tires if necessary
- Function test of the lighting system and headlights
- Check battery acid level, check cables for tight fit, check for rust
- Blow out air filter, replace if necessary, check V-belt for correct tension
- Check fuel lines for leaks, check the fuel filter
- Check exhaust system for damage
- Check Bowden cables and joints, replace lubrication if necessary
- Check shock absorbers for function, steering and wheel bearings for play
Please bear in mind: It is better to check a larger part of the vehicle before starting a journey.
A breakdown is a large, undefined term
Let’s take a look at what could happen on the road:
- the small engine could quickly overheat
- Clutch wear due to frequent shifting in rough terrain
- Transmission problems
- Increased braking can lead to faster wear of the brake pads
- Influence on braking performance due to loss of brake fluid
- Failure of the alternator when driving for long periods with the lights on
- Fuses and bulbs can burn out
- Bowden cables for accelerator and clutch can break
- Severe vibrations can cause nuts and bolts to come loose
- Flat tire, check the temperature of the tires in between
What do a Ferrari F 40 and an Ape have in common?
They have virtually nothing in common, except that the Ferrari has a long, chrome-plated gearshift protruding from the center console, while the Ape has a long bar for reverse gear. Both vehicles stand out due to their economical cockpit equipment, albeit for very different reasons. The Ferrari F 40, approved for the last time by its founder Enzo Ferrari, was intended to be the fastest car in the world. It was therefore not allowed to weigh too much.
Conclusion
As we can see, a trip with the Ape can certainly have its charm and offer plenty of driving pleasure. The motto is: Minimize the risk of a breakdown on the road.
With this in mind: Have a good trip at all times with the Ape on tour!
