Never let it be said that I can’t move with the times, and although I’m in no hurry to use AI to write any of my rally write-ups, I wondered how useful it could be for other things in the world of scooters.
There are a few AI engines and ChatGPT has sprung to the fore recently. Google is rolling out its Bard AI bot to beta testers and Bill Gates says it’s the second most important technological advance in his lifetime.
What is ChatGPT?
There’s a been a lot of fuss about ChatGPT and you can actually use it for lots of different things. It can answer questions as well as writing articles about any subject, all for free. You just sign up for an account and off you go – you just ask it anything and see what it produces!
One thing I learned early on is that it can’t provide opinions, as I found when I asked it “What’s better – Vespas or Lambrettas?”. In response it said :
As an AI language model, I cannot have a personal preference or opinion. Both Vespa and Lambretta are iconic scooter brands that have their own unique characteristics, designs, and history. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. It’s best to do research, test drive both, and make a decision based on personal preference and requirements.
OK, so if it can’t provide an opinion, does it know much about scooters in general? I asked it “What is the best exhaust for a T5 Millenium Vespa?”. It clearly doesn’t have any in-depth knowledge because this is the response:
As an AI language model, I do not have personal experience with Vespa scooters or specific knowledge of the aftermarket parts available for them. However, there are many exhaust options available for Vespa T5 Millenium models. The best exhaust for your scooter will depend on your specific needs and preferences, such as the desired sound, performance gains, and budget. It’s best to do thorough research, read reviews, and consult with experts or experienced Vespa riders before making a decision. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that any modifications you make to your scooter comply with local laws and regulations.
Does ChatGPT have any mechanical knowledge?
Next I asked ChatGPT how to change a clutch on a Vespa! Let’s be clear, it’ll never replace Sticky’s manuals as the go-to help for any budding scooter mechanics. But it did know what the general steps are in the process!
The process of changing a clutch on a Vespa can be complicated and may require some mechanical knowledge and experience. Here is a general guide on how to change a clutch on a Vespa:
- Remove the engine cowling and the rear wheel of the Vespa to access the clutch assembly.
- Remove the clutch cover by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. You may need to use a special tool to hold the clutch assembly in place while you remove the cover.
- Remove the clutch assembly by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. Carefully lift the assembly out of the engine.
- Remove the old clutch plate and any worn or damaged parts. Inspect the clutch basket and replace it if it shows signs of wear or damage.
- Install the new clutch plate and any other new parts as necessary.
- Reinstall the clutch assembly into the engine and tighten the bolts to the specified torque settings.
- Reinstall the clutch cover and tighten the bolts to the specified torque settings.
- Reinstall the rear wheel and the engine cowling.
- Check the clutch operation by starting the engine and engaging the clutch. Make sure the clutch engages smoothly and that there are no unusual noises or vibrations.
It’s important to consult your Vespa owner’s manual for specific instructions and torque settings, and if you are unsure about any part of the process, it’s best to seek professional help from a mechanic or a Vespa specialist.
What does ChatGPT know about the IOW scooter rally?
Next I asked what it knows about the Isle of Wight scooter rally…
The Isle of Wight Scooter Rally is an annual event that takes place on the Isle of Wight, a small island located off the south coast of England. The rally is one of the biggest gatherings of scooter enthusiasts in the world, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
The event usually takes place over the August bank holiday weekend and includes a variety of activities for scooter riders and enthusiasts. The highlight of the rally is a large ride-out, where hundreds of scooters parade through the streets of the island. There are also scooter competitions, live music, trade stalls, and various scooter-related events.
The Isle of Wight Scooter Rally has been running since the 1980s and has become a much-loved tradition for scooter enthusiasts from all over the world. The event is known for its friendly atmosphere and sense of community, with riders and enthusiasts coming together to celebrate their shared love of scooters and the scooter lifestyle.
The Isle of Wight Scooter Rally is a must-visit for any scooter enthusiast, whether you’re a rider or just a fan of these classic machines. It’s a unique and exciting event that celebrates the history and culture of scootering and brings together people from all walks of life.
Can ChatGPT be used to suggest music to listen to?
I then asked ChatGPT to give me a setlist for a Northern Soul night – and it was slightly more helpful although most of the suggested tracks are the same old ones you’d expect to hear – nothing particularly rare in its suggestions.
Creating a setlist for a Northern Soul disco can be a fun and exciting task. Northern Soul is a genre of soul music that originated in Northern England in the late 1960s and is known for its fast tempo, heavy beat, and uplifting lyrics. Here are some popular Northern Soul tracks that you could include in your setlist:
- Do I Love You (Indeed I Do) – Frank Wilson
- Tainted Love – Gloria Jones
- Out On The Floor – Dobie Gray
- I’m on My Way – Dean Parrish
- Breakin’ Down the Walls of Heartache – Johnny Johnson & The Bandwagon
- The Snake – Al Wilson
- What – Judy Street
- Landslide – Tony Clarke
- Time Will Pass You By – Tobi Legend
- You Don’t Love Me – Epitome of Sound
- You’re Gonna Make Me Love You – Sandi Sheldon
- Hold Back The Night – The Trammps
- I’ll Keep Holding On – The Marvelettes
- Nothing Can Stop Me – Gene Chandler
- Long After Tonight Is Over – Jimmy Radcliffe
This is just a starting point, and there are many other great Northern Soul tracks to choose from. Remember to mix up the tempos and energy levels to keep the dancers engaged and excited. Have fun creating your setlist!
A poem about Vespas and Lambrettas
So for my final experiment, I thought I’d introduce a bit of culture! I asked ChatGPT to write a poem about Vespas and Lambrettas – and here’s what it came up with…
Vespas And Lambrettas, by ChatGPT
Vespas and Lambrettas, sleek and bright
Zooming down streets with all their might
Their engines purring, their bodies trim
These two-wheeled wonders, the epitome of vim
Riders perched atop, their scarves flying
Their helmets glinting, their eyes undying
Their love for speed and the open road
As they weave through traffic, like a secret code
Vespas with their curves, so smooth and fine
Lambrettas with their lines, so sharp and divine
Both carry memories of days gone by
Of summer breezes and youthful sighs
For these scooters are not just machines
They are symbols of freedom, of daring dreams
Of taking chances and living life
Of taking risks, of feeling alive
So let them roam, let them ride
Let the wind be their guide
For Vespas and Lambrettas, they are more than just scooters
They are legends, they are dreamers, they are eternal commuters.
In Summary
I think the likes of Iggy, Andy Gillard and Sticky can sleep at night and chatbots are never going to replace their in depth knowledge and research of scooters and the scene in general. But if you need a hummus recipe or suggestion for what to write in a best man’s speech then it might be more helpful!