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Wills takes off with 175mph 'superbike'

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Prince William is obviously the kind of guy who likes to move fast when he sees something he wants. The second-in-line is taking the road in a Honda "superbike" capable of 175mph, having traded in his Triumph racing bike for an even speedier model.

The 1100cc Super Blackbird is one of the fastest motor vehicles in the world and can comfortably outrun many of the cars made by companies like Porsche and Ferrari. It replaces the British-made Triumph Daytona 600 which has been the Prince's pride and joy for the last few years.

Some royal watchers have expressed concern about the second-in-line's love of motorcycles, but he insists the dangers are minimal for responsible riders. "It is a risk, but as long as you've had sufficient and thorough training, you should be OK," he said in a recent interview. "My father is concerned that I'm into motorbikes, but he doesn't want to keep me all wrapped up in cotton wool."

Getting around on two wheels also has the advantage that wearing leathers and a helmet make him unrecognisable to other road users. William's hobby presents something of a problem for his protection officers, though, as they can't accompany him in the same vehicle when they're out and about. According to sources close to Clarence House, the police have decided to call on some specially trained motorcycle officers to accompany him when he's out on the open road.

Photo: © Alphapress.com
Wills out and about on his Triumph Daytona racing bike. "It is a risk, but as long as you've had sufficient and thorough training, you should be OK," he saidy
Photo: © Alphapress.com
The prince says risks are not so great for careful riders

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