Friday 25 May 2018

Comment by Editor-in-Chief, Robin Bradley

Bring on the Middleweights

The latest slew of motorcycle and PTW registrations data from Europe’s trade associations are less convincing in market growth terms than the January and February results suggested they were going to be.
As previously reported, in the context of the growth seen in the three years prior to the data distortion of the 2016/2017 Euro 3 pre-registration issue especially (prior to transition into Euro 4 production), the results for the 12 months of 2017 were better than they appeared to be according to the officially collated registration statistics.
In turn, January and February of this year appeared to be proof of concept in that they reinforced the suggestion that the underlying health of the market was better than it appeared, and that 2018 was going to be another year of growth.
Maybe not of the kind seen (in percentage terms) in 2015 and 2016, but growth nonetheless.
However, whether or not the latest data is affected by short-term factors such as poor weather and holiday timings remains to be seen – at this stage caution is advisable, for as far as we all know, it could be the first indicators of an unwelcome trend - a reality wake-up call, rather than seasonal blip. We just don’t know yet – or do we?
There are suggestions emerging on the international stage that the economic optimism that greeted early 2018 indicators may have been misplaced. The current thinking is that global growth is set to slow, importantly in Europe as well as China, and one of the first victims of such uncertainty is always consumer confidence. 


‘list prices have exploded’

As confidence evaporates, so does spending. We’ve seen how that cycle unfolded at least three times in the past 10 years. But surely not again? Surely not all dawns can be false? Just for once, can’t stability be the new black?
Drill down into the statistics released so far for March and April 2018, and it becomes apparent that larger displacement machines are still selling well, with, ironically, the loss in numbers being in the lower displacement power bands and especially among mopeds and 50cc scooters.
The irony is that these are the lower cost machines, and the real worry is therefore that we appear, again, to be seeing the entry level to be the choke point – meaning we could be storing up real problems for the future as the number of riders available to migrate up the price and power tree diminishes.
That said, there has been a major trend to later entry for the past 20 years anyway. However, the trend in new motorcycle prices has been up for the past decade…seriously up. List prices and the real prices achieved for current production models have grown, indeed exploded, far ahead of inflation, as manufacturers seek to recoup losses and fund more expensive technologies and product standards and requirements.
Worse, the relative cost of entry-level machines (mopeds and scooters) has actually increased even more than for larger displacement models, hitting the market’s future hard.
These phenomena aren’t isolated to Europe. The same has been happening in the United States. It is a factor of the “developed” markets, and one clearly seen in the quarterly and annual financial reports of many of the manufacturers, especially the Japanese manufacturers and those with major stakes in the “entry level”.
The evolution of the “emerging” markets is well documented, and regardless of short-term bumps in the road, many are saying that they have seen the future, and that the future is Asian – both in terms of where sales are to be found, and where, shorn of northern hemisphere overheads, the low-cost “entry level” and increasingly popular middleweights are going to be coming from.
The members of ACEM have been pointing to the importance of export sales from Europe to Asia, Africa and South and Central America for years, and for years they have been lobbying the EU (among others) to support their ability to make cheap in Europe and sell well elsewhere. And they have been right to do so.
Projects such as the British/US/European derived and tuned but Asian made Royal Enfields, Zongshen Nortons, Baja Triumphs and Mahindra built BSAs and Jawas are set to shake up the price-points and speak connivingly to the Millennial and Centennial attitudes towards the (largely urban) ownership and riding experiences in a way that current pricing and production values are not yet managing to achieve.
Add into the equation the opportunity for “cost-effective, energy efficient and comfortable ELVs” to take ownership of the urban riding landscape, then maybe the apparent instability in the new registration statistics seen for the past 18 months has as much to do with the end-game play of the change of direction for the market that appeared to have been kick-started by the financial crisis of 2008.
Maybe there is more to what is happening than “simply” the impacts of regulations and consumer confidence. Maybe demographics, technology, pricing, consumer confidence, environmental issues, entry level pathways and lifestyle changes represent a combo perfect storm that is set to sweep all before it?
Either way, there has to be an end to the cycle of economic uncertainty that defines our times and to the ever-increasing list prices that manufacturers are seeking to sell at in order for the PTW market, any kind of PTW market, to prosper. Bring on the middleweights I say!

Italian new motorcycle registrations

Italy: new motorcycle registrations +10.25 percent Jan-April

After a weather and holiday-related blip in March (-7.03 percent/10,026 units), the Italian motorcycle market continues to be the “stand out” that saw it grow so strongly in 2017, with the latest data released by ANCMA (the Milan based motorcycle industry trade association for Italy), making for excellent reading again.


Registrations were up by +10.25 percent for the first four months of the year (34,235 units), with April worth 11,020 units (+10.58 percent). This was the best first four months market performance in Italy since before 2013, pointing to another healthy year ahead for the motorcycle market in Italy.
Allowing for mopeds and scooters over 50 cc, overall PTW registrations in Italy were +5.57 percent for the first four months of this year at 70,728 units YTD (+14.09 percent for April). Scooters were up YTD by +1.52 percent at 36,493 units (121,931 in 2017).
Honda’s SH 150/300/125 variants are the top-sellers, followed by Piaggio’s Beverly 300 ABS, Yamaha’s XMAX 300, Liberty 125 ABS and the KYMCO Agility 125 R16.
The top-selling motorcycle was the BMW R 1200 GS (1,596 units YTD), followed by Honda’s CRF 1000 Africa Twin (1,404 units), the R 1200 GS Adventure (1,135 units), the Honda NC 750 X (806 units), Ducati Scrambler 800 (794 units) and Yamaha MT-09 (714 units).

Galfer

Galfer riders have early season successes

Spanish brake component specialist Galfer reports a good start to the year in terms of race success for teams and riders using their high performance G1310 sintered competition compound pads, metallic brake lines and lightweight Disc Wave rotors.
In Moto3 Gresini Racing, Jorge Martín and Fabio Di Giannantonio won at Qatar and Las Americas, with Martín the current overall leader at the time of writing. 


Jorge Martin at Qatar

Leopard Racing with Enea Bastianini and Lorenzo Dalla Porta have scored two podiums, having won the M3 World Championship in 2017, with Joan Mir winning 10 of 19 races; Estrella Galicia with Aron Canet (and Alonso Lopez) have had two podiums this 2018 season. Aron won three races last year, and Team Reale-Avintia with Livio Loi are also racing with Galfer.
All of them are using Racing Galfer Disc Wave discs (DF100CW1 - front x2, DF101CW1 - rear x1), Galfer sintered brake G1310 pads and Galfer metallic brake lines. In 2016 Galfer were homologated by HRC for spare parts on Moto3 bikes.




In WSBK (Supersport 600 class), Evan Bros Team with Randy Krummenacher won at Thailand and has had two other podiums already this 2018 season (Randy was second in the overall classification at the time of writing) - he is using Galfer’s DF475CW1 (front x2) and DF496W (rear x1) Disc Wave rotors on his Yamaha YZF-R6.
Profile Racing’s Luke Stapleford (and Stefan Hill) have posted four Top Ten finishes with Galfer so far this season (DF906CW1, front x2 and DF907W, rear x1 on his Triumph Daytona 675).


Randy Krummenacher

In the Supersport 300 class ParkinGO Team with Mika Perez and Filippo Rovelli have scored a podium already in 2018 with Galfer Disc Wave rotors on their Ninja 400s, and the DS Junior Team with Ana Carrasco and Dorren Loureiro have had four Top Ten finishes this 2018 season. They are using Galfer Disc Wave rotors, G1310 sintered brake pads and Galfer metallic brake lines on their Ninja 400s.
www.galfermoto.com

BMW Group

BMW Q1 sales volume record

The BMW Group says it has started the financial year 2018 with a “strong” first quarter. “Despite volatile conditions and unfavourable exchange rate effects, new best ever figures were recorded for sales volume and net profit.
In motorcycle terms, BMW Motorrad sales volume in the first quarter was at the same level as the previous year. Worldwide deliveries to customers edged up marginally by +0.6% to 35,858 units (Q1 2017: 35,636 units), setting a new first-quarter sales volume record for the seventh year in succession. 



However, the company says motorcycle segment performance “was held down by the impact of the current model change and by currency effects”. Revenues fell by -15.5% to € 524 million (2017: € 620 million). EBIT was also adversely affected by the same factors and finished at € 77 million (2017: € 125 million; -38.4%).
Pre-tax profit for the three-month period amounted to € 78 million (2017: € 125 million; -37.6%). The first-quarter EBIT margin for the Motorcycles segment came in at 14.7% (2017: 20.2%). In the light of slightly slower production ramp-up of new models, retail sales for 2018 are now expected to grow only slightly for the year.
In automotive as well as motorcycle terms, BMW continues to grapple with the challenges and invest in the opportunities that are affecting all aspects of 21st century transport policy.  Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, is quoted as saying: “Our industry is currently going through a phase of unprecedented technological change and must master the highly challenging conditions.
“The first quarter highlights some important points: we think in terms of opportunities and are pursuing a well-defined strategy; we are combining tomorrow's mobility with sustainable profitability – underlined by the fact that we are capable of generating a high pre-tax margin on group level, even in volatile times”.
On 11 April, the BMW Group opened its campus for autonomous driving just outside Munich, where together with partners, it will develop the technologies required for both highly and fully automated driving.

LeoVince

Euro 3 and 4 LV-10 for Z1000

Italian exhaust specialist LeoVince has added another new line of ECE-approved exhausts for 2018 - the LV-10 is a new programme for the Kawasaki Z1000 (Euro 3 and Euro 4).
The LV-10 is the slip-on they developed in collaboration with several leading Moto2 and Moto3 teams and is based directly on their MotoGP and SBK racing experience.


“We designed an exhaust system with extremely compact dimensions to grant maximum lightness, the best performance and the unmistakable LeoVince racing sound,” says Commercial Director Stefano Patelli.
Manufactured entirely from AISI 304 stainless steel, the LV-10 is said to be 4.88 kg lighter than the OEM system it replaces. The body has a matt ‘Titanium Look’ finish with laser-etched LeoVince logo. For those who are looking for something darker, the ‘LV-10 Black Edition’ has a stylish matt black finish. The sandblasted end cap features a stainless steel exhaust outlet mesh for a racing style look.


Patelli went on to say that “the LV-10 mounts with a laser-cut bracket, and inside high thermal resistance (900 °C) fibreglass wool is applied through the use of a single proprietary and volumised yarn, to allow the sound-absorbing material to expand freely, without the fibres losing integrity, greatly increasing the durability.”

LEOVINCE

www.leovince.com

Andreani

Andreani adds Misano Cartridge applications for 2018 models

Italian suspension specialist Andreani is well known for its top-selling Misano Cartridge programme. Developed as a result of the work they do in the paddock with top-level race teams and riders, the Andreani Group’s respected R&D department has developed a series of designs and components that are said to have made their Misano Cartridges “among the most reliable, responsive and durable on the market”.


“We use a series of technical components and details that result in enhanced handling, comfort, precision and performances for all bikes, with an excellent value for money”, the company says.
The Andreani Group produces cartridges for more than 250 models - almost all the scooters, the naked and the street motorcycles in general, and, in 2018, they have increased the fitment list to include applications as diverse as the popular Honda X-ADV, KYMCO AK 550 and Kawasaki Versys 1000.
Equipped with 20 mm diameter pistons with expanded oil passages, a sophisticated hydraulic system is said to “guarantee exceptional performance in cornering and braking, improving the stability and the hold of the front wheel.
“Adjustable in compression, rebound and spring preload with springs that can be customised for rider weight, luggage load and riding style and conditions, our exclusive cartridge design makes stock OEM replacement in the original forks quick and easy”.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com

GIVI

Going Green

Matching the iconic Kawasaki colour, this new lime “illuminated” windscreen from GIVI “exploits a photosensitive pigment”, as adopted by GIVI on their ICE windshields, to illuminate the outer edge of the screen bright green.



The well-known Kawasaki green colour is obtained by mixing 10% of blue and 90% yellow, and it first appeared in Daytona in 1968 on the livery of the A1R bike ridden by Walt Fulton (the rider chose green on purpose to “discredit” the superstition that green was unlucky for racing).
In addition to the mechanical compatibility (it bends seamlessly with the front contours of the bikes it is available for) and the aerodynamic protection it provides, the outline becomes bright green when illuminated by oncoming vehicle lights. To date the “Lime Shield” is available for three ‘17-’18 Kawasaki models, the Z650, the Z900 and the Versys-X300 and will be available for the new Ninja H2 SX soon.
The A4117GR, size 28x33 cm (HxL), is specific for the Z650; A4118GR, size 37x32 cm, for the Z900 and the D4121GR, size 48x40 cm, for the Versys-X 300.


Also seen here, GIVI’s new universal handlebar bag is equipped with an internal compartment complete with a transparent window for smartphones. Lightweight and easy to open (two integrated magnets), it mounts with two side straps with a double-D ring system with additional quick-release strap. Made of UV-resistant 1200D W/R polyester, features include large mesh pocket with zip closure, elasticated straps and reflective inserts. Can be waist belt carried when off-bike.

GIVI S.R.L.
www.givi.it

Puig

Downforce spoilers for Kawasaki ZX-10R/RR/SE

Spanish plastic protectors and accessories specialist Puig has introduced a new programme of accessories for the Kawasaki ZX-10R/RR/SE range - a line of aerodynamic lateral downforce spoilers.


These new aerodynamic components have been designed to be “perfectly integrated into the motorcycle fairing, in an optimal position and inclination to provide more downforce to the front section of the bike”.
As well as providing a more aggressive and racing style look for the Ninjas, Puig says they improve stability under braking and when accelerating quickly.



“As a result of our experience in developing accessories for the fairing and the constant research we are doing to find ways of further improving ride quality, these new items follow the current trends of the aerodynamic designs that are seen applied on MotoGP bikes”.
The new spoilers are made of 4 mm high-impact acrylic, with a rounded finished edge to ensure safety. Puig supplies the spoilers in black, with two pairs of deflectors, in green and black, so the rider can personalise it to their taste, and say that “the mounting process is easy and secure, using common tools with no mechanical knowledge necessary”.

MOTOPLASTIC
www.puig.tv

Thursday 17 May 2018

EU motorcycle registrations

EU motorcycle registrations up by +4.7 percent Q1; total PTWs -6.1%

ACEM, the Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association, says that combined registrations of new motorcycles and mopeds in the EU (total Powered Two Wheelers/PTWs) reached 240,924 units during the first quarter of 2018, representing a decrease of -6.1% compared to same period of the previous year.


Registrations increased in some of the largest European markets, including Spain (32,170 motorcycles and mopeds, +11.5%) and the UK (24,609 units, +5.6%), remained stable in Italy (49,993 units, -0.6%) and decreased in France (47,081 units, -8%) and Germany (36,788 units, -13.5%).
Motorcycle registrations were up by +4.7% (203,853 units) during the first 3 months of the year. With 46,126 units (+1.4%), Italy remains the largest European motorcycle market, followed by France (36,979 motorcycles, +9.1%), Germany (36,058 motorcycles, +1.9%), Spain (29,063 motorcycles, +16.7%) and the UK (23,485 motorcycles, +7.4%).
Registrations in the moped segment were down by -40.2 percent (37,071 units) due in large part to the moped Euro 3/Euro 4 transition that became effective on January 1, 2018. The largest moped market in Europe was France (10,102 units, -41.5%), followed by the Netherlands (8,856 units, -35.3%), Italy (3,867 units,
-19.4%), Belgium (3,458 units, -14.8%) and Spain (3,107 units, - 21.4%).
Combined registrations of electric mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles reached 8,281 units during the first three months of 2018. This represents an increase of +51.2% compared to the same period of 2017. The largest European market in terms of volume was France with a total of 2,150 electric vehicles, followed by the Netherlands (1,703 units), Belgium (1,472 units), Spain (1,258 units) and Italy (592 units).
In motorcycle terms, a total of 1,726 electric motorcycles were registered in the EU between January and March 2018 (+118.5% on a year-on-year basis). The largest European markets for electric motorcycles are France (732 units, +228%), Spain (311 units, +161%), the Netherlands (202 units, +304%) and Germany (173 vehicles,
-10.4%).
Registrations of electric mopeds reached 5,824 units (+50.8% compared to the first three months of 2017).

Energica

Energica reports good Q1

Italian electric sportsbike specialist Energica says it closed the first quarter 2018 with a current order book that exceeds the total of sales of the previous year.
Recently announced by Dorna as the “spec” bike for the 2019 FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, claimed to be the world’s first electric motorcycle competition, Livia Cevolini, CEO of Energica Motor Company S.p.A., said that “in the first few months of 2018 we have achieved an extraordinary result - our order book overtook total 2017 sales in just three months.



“This result was achieved thanks to the launch of our third model, the old school electric Eva EsseEsse9, and the involvement in the MotoE project. During 2017 we strengthened our presence in the U.S., appointing Stefano Benatti as CEO of Energica Motor Company Inc., who promoted the Energica operations already underway in California and worked on new commercial partnerships in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, San Francisco and Texas.
“In Europe we improved our sales network adding new commercial agreements in Germany, France, Italy and started negotiations in Eastern Europe, Ireland and the United Arab Emirates”.
 Last year Energica became the first E-Bike manufacturer to join the CharIN e.v., an automotive industry consortium that was created to develop and promote the Combined Charging System (CCS) as the standard for charging battery-powered electric vehicles of all kinds.
Last year the company also achieved three important patents concerning crucial components used on each of its production bikes – the VCU (Vehicle Control Unit), Supply Unit heat management and its eABS technology.

Ducati

25 years of Monsters

Ducati is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its now legendary and still popular ‘Monster’, arguably the start-point of the modern ‘Naked Style’ motorcycle concept and a landmark for any model series.



The first production ‘Monster’ left the factory in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, in 1993 after making its debut at IFMA, the then ‘Cologne Show’ that was ultimately replaced by INTERMOT in 1992. Designed by Miguel Angel Galluzzi, and initially touted as a “muscle bike”, “Il Mostro” (as it is known in Italian) is widely regarded as the bike that saved Ducati, accounting for around half of annual production by 2005.
In contemporary terms, 2014 saw Ducati introduce the Monster 1200 and 1200 S, with a water-cooled four valve 135/145 hp 1198 Testastretta 11 engine to replace the Monster 1100 Evo. For 2016 the monster family included the 1200 R - a more track-oriented version that was claimed at the time to be the most powerful Monster ever with 160 hp (120 kW) and a claimed 97 ft lb (132 Nm) of torque and +15 hp more than the Monster 1200 S - the same Testastretta 11° DS, 90-degree V-twin used in the Multistrada and Diavel.
The Monster 797 was unveiled in 2016 at EICMA and launched in India last year. This entry-level Monster is powered by an 803 cc Testastretta twin-cylinder, air-cooled engine that makes 73.9 hp (55.1 kW) and 69 Nm (51 ft lb). The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
Ducati says that “since its presentation to the public and the press in 1992, this iconic Ducati model has brought a radical change to the world of motorcycles, creating a brand-new sector, the naked sports bikes, and generating one of the most devoted communities of enthusiasts”.
It's an important anniversary for Ducati. An original Monster 900 MY1993 is on display at the new Ducati Museum (as seen here), and a programme of activities and initiatives that will reach a crescendo at this year’s biennial 2018 World Ducati Week, the world's largest Ducati rally, held on 20, 21 and 22 July 2018 at the Marco Simoncelli Misano World Circuit in Misano Adriatico.

SC-Project

Michael Dunlop to ride for Factory Paton SC-Project Team

The Northern Irish rider will compete alongside Italian Stefano Bonetti on the Factory S1-R Lightweight Paton at the 2018 Isle of Man TT.
Factory S1-R Paton won the Lightweight TT Race in 2017, showing a competitiveness that promptly attracted the attention of several privateer teams.
Michael Dunlop was the first rider in the whole history of the Isle of Man TT to have achieved a lap of the course in less than 17 minutes, as well as being one of the most successful TT riders. He is extremely competitive in every class, from the Supersport to the Superstock and the Lightweights.



Speaking about the deal, SC-Project Team owners Stefano Lavazza and Marco De Rossi said: “We are extremely happy that a champion like Michael is joining our Paton SC-Project Reparto Corse Team. Our collaboration with him started last year just with the supply of a SC-Project exhaust for the MD Racing Yamaha R6 he won the Supersport TT with.
“Michael was very satisfied with the product and he wanted to carry on our collaboration this year as well, with the supply of SC-Project exhausts for the S1000RR BMW and the CBR 600RR Honda he will ride respectively in the Superstock and Supersport races.
“His skills are well known to everyone, and we are well aware that a rider like Michael has victory as his sole focus. It is an honour for us and for Paton to have one of the fastest TT riders ever riding for our team. We are ready for the challenge of confirming Paton as the bike to beat on the Isle of Man”.
Paton S1-R Lightweight Project Managers Roberto Pattoni and Andrea Realini added: “To have Michael Dunlop onboard the purely Italian Paton is an honour. Some top riders got in touch with us, and this shows how well we have worked in these past few years, and now the acquisition by SC-Project is taking us to another level.
“The Bonetti and Dunlop duo will be a key element to improving our S1-R and to confirm Paton as the fastest Lightweight at the Isle of Man TT. We are sure that even Pep (founder of the Paton factory and Roberto’s father) would have appreciated such a hot blooded and passionate rider as Michael Dunlop. We can’t wait to start!”.

Sifam

SWAP’S Industry ‘S818’ helmet

Based near Nice in southern France, the Sifam Group (founded in 1994 by Pierre Manuel) has a fast-growing own brand apparel range, for which they are the exclusive distributor, that we have featured in IDN recently (SWAP’S Industry). They are also one of the largest France based distributors with a wide range of famous name and own brand hard parts available from their 3,900 sq m headquarters warehouse. 

The SWAP’S Industry S818 helmet is made in a polycarbonate outer shell with upper and lower front air vents and a removable and washable inner liner in “ventilated and ergonomic double density foam.” Fitted with the Double D buckle system, the S818 weighs around 1,300 grams.
Available in flat black, white/red graphic, white/orange graphic, blue/yellow graphic, black/white graphic, orange/blue graphic, green/black graphic, the S818 is a “price point” product that is currently available to dealers “at a very attractive price”.
Sifam is particularly looking for new dealers in England, Germany and Benelux - enquiries can be sent to Sales Manager Joao Ramos (email below).

SIFAM
www.sifam.fr

Galfer

Galfer adds ‘Disc Wave’, brake pad and brake line applications

Spanish brake component manufacturer Galfer has added to its available range of ‘Disc Wave’ applications, including for the Kawasaki Ninja 400 (as seen here) and a range of applications including for the Yamaha XV/XVS 950 (2015 and up), and selected MBK, Piaggio Vespa/LML and Kymco applications.


New brake pad applications include the Yamaha R3, MT 03, X-MAX 300 and 125/150 cc N-MAX variants, the 2017 and up Honda CBR 1000 RR Yamaha and a range of new front and rear brake line kits for models such as the 2017 and up Yamaha R3 and R6.
Their new print catalogue details all their applications and is available from your distributor of choice and online.


The company has also announced that it has extended its sponsorship involvement with the Monlau Repsol Technical School through to 2019.
The brand and the school started a partnership in 1997 and the deal sees Galfer contributing to student training and providing material for the competition teams of the Barcelona based school. Monlau Repsol helps Galfer to develop and improve its braking products through race use in national and international championships.



The collaboration started when Emilio Alzamora entered the 250 cc World Championship. It was the school’s first project, and since then the partnership has won many important titles, such as the Márquez brothers Moto3 and Moto2 titles in 2012 and 2014. 

INDUSTRIAS GALFER S.A.
www.galfer.eu

Kappa

‘Arizona’ modular helmet

The KV31 Arizona Phantom modular helmet by Kappa offers a brand-new variety of colour options and is said to be “extremely appealing with its technically effective flip-front”, made in four bi-colour options as well as four single colour helmets.


The helmet has an aerodynamic shell and, as standard, is equipped with a nose guard and wind deflector, hypoallergenic removable and washable inner lining, an effective ventilation system including adjustable front and chin guard ventilation. It includes a Pinlock-ready visor, and an incorporated sun visor is equipped with an “easy-to-find and easy-to-use” control. The opening of the chin guard is activated via a central button, which can be clicked with just one gloved hand.


The shell is in thermoplastic material and the weight is 1,650 g. Options include a J303SK Bluetooth intercom/KH10 helmet holder and Pinlock anti-fog lens.

KAPPA S.R.L.
www.kappamoto.com

LighTech

R6 Rearset Options

Italian parts manufacturer LighTech offers a full range of accessories for the Yamaha R6, including these adjustable rear sets kit (fixed foot pegs). They are also available with folding foot pegs, or as a top-of-the-line ‘R’ version with folding foot and toe pegs, titanium screws, special SKF bearings, carbon heel guards and red anodised supports for the foot pegs.


Seen here is what LighTech’s Export Sales Manager Michele Balboni describes as a “crossover” design - a standard rearset kit, but shown with optional folding aluminium footpegs and black carbon heel guards - demonstrating the versatility of the LighTech programme

LighTech CNC precision machine each of their aluminium products from a single solid block of high-grade, high-strength, lightweight aluminium alloy. Founded in 1997 LighTech manufactures and distributes over 7,000 Ergal/aluminium alloy products that are manufactured in six different colours, plus over 400 titanium products and a host of other accessories. LighTech has more than 2,500 authorised dealers all over the world.
Available in a selection of model match and custom colourways and finishes, additional products for the R6 include chain adjusters, swingarm spools, brake and clutch levers that deliver reduced weight and lever effort with improved feel (soft touch inserts and folding options offered), handlebar clip-ons and caps, license plate supports, protections systems including axle sliders/protectors and clutch/brake lever protection and guards) gas caps, oil filler caps, brake/clutch reservoir caps, a selection of carbon parts (front and rear fenders and covers) and high strength, reduced weight hardware options.

LIGHTECH S.R.L.

www.lightech.it

Friday 11 May 2018

German motorcycle registrations

Germany: motorcycles at -2.46
for Q1 2018


After a positive start to 2018 (+22.15 percent for Jan/Feb), the latest statistics released by the German motorcycle industry trade association (IVM) for the period to the end of March 2018 show new motorcycle registrations down by -2.46 percent for the first three months of the year at 27,585 units; with March having been down by -10.83 percent (18,823 units) against the Euro 3/Euro 4 transition hit performance of March 2017.
Total PTW registrations for the first three months of the year are modestly up by +1.72 percent at 35,889 units.


For the full year 2017, new registrations in Germany were -14.21 percent at 100,877 units. Total PTW registrations were -19.10 percent for 2017 in Germany at 139,831 units (compared to 172,846 in 2016 and 150,550 in 2015). The German market bottomed out at 122,519 total new PTW registrations in 2010.
As is usual these days, BMW’s R 1200 GS remains the top selling model in Germany, with 2,285 units sold so far this year, with the Kawasaki Z 900 in second place (21,160 units), the Z650 in third (687 units), the Honda CRF 1000 Africa Twin in fourth (674 units), followed by Yamaha’s MT-07 in fifth and the BMW S 1000 RR in sixth spot.
With eight models in the Top 20 bestselling list, it is no surprise that BMW is motorcycle market share leader YTD with 7,204 units sold for a 26.12 percent market share.
Kawasaki is second (3,454 units/12.52 percent share), with Honda third (2,962 units/10.74 percent share) and KTM fourth (2,743 units/9.94 percent share), followed by Harley, Yamaha, Triumph, Suzuki, Ducati and Husqvarna.


Blackstone Tek (BST)

200 mph wheels?

Noted Johannesburg, South Africa based carbon fibre wheels specialist Blackstone Tek (BST) recently supplied a set of ‘specials’ for Canadian speed freak Cliff Randall’s Muzzy Kawasaki ZX1270, one of two bikes that he’ll be campaigning this summer to be used at ‘The Loring Mile’ in the United States (Maine, New England), and “both are now running on these beautiful (and light) BSTs,” says Cliff.



A centre for record setters and performance enthusiasts, the ECTA (East Coast Timing Association) Loring Mile is a demanding proving ground where only the best engineered and prepared race bikes survive, but where some spectacular times are possible.
Randall’s aim is to mount an assault on the 200-mph mark (322 kph) and described the wheels as “incredible, absolutely incredible. We are so pleased and thankful to BST for coming up with these ‘specials’ for us. Not only do they look amazing, but their light weight, high strength and the low- profile Dunlop Q3s, they allow us to run [60 series on the front, 50s at rear] will definitely give us an edge”.



The wheels are from BST’s new ‘Black Mamba’ range of 7-spokers with interchangeable rear wheel and custom gold tint with gold hubs.
Randall went on to say: “These are one-of-a-kind pieces of art and we really appreciate BST’s help. We’d also like to thank our sponsor Vortex Sprockets for the selection of aluminium sprocket configurations they have provided to run with the BST wheels.”
The ZX-12R has been boosted by the addition of a 1,270cc big bore kit from Muzzy Performance. Much time has been invested in dialling in the Power Commander 3 to properly handle all the modifications, and Randall has shared his fuel maps with over a dozen other owners of ZX-12Rs, which also have had the 1,270cc kit installed.  A high flow fuel pump ensures that fuel is always kept up to the injectors. A Muzzy steering damper helps keep the tracking straight and combines with an Ohlins shock and RaceTech modified forks, which have been treated to a gold nitriding to complete the look.

www.blackstonetek.com

Piaggio

S&P upgrades Piaggio

In early April credit ratings agency Standard & Poor's (S&P) has revised its Piaggio Group credit rating upwards, from “B+” to “BB-”.




According to analysts “the upgrade reflects the higher turnover and gross margin in Europe, which together with a rigorous control of overheads, generated an operating performance above our expectations in 2017 and an EBITDA of over 190 million euro.
“Furthermore, after investments and dividends, the company was able to generate positive cash flows and reduce debt. Now we expect that in 2018 Piaggio will maintain a cashflow/debt ratio [adjusted according to the S&P methodologies] of between 15 and 20%, reducing its leverage in 2019.”
S&P also confirmed the “stable” outlook of the Piaggio Group, adding that “it reflects the expectations that Piaggio will continue to produce solid operating performance, maintaining its market share in Europe and its leadership in the scooter segment. We also believe that Piaggio will record an [adjusted] EBITDA margin exceeding 12%, generating a cashflow/debt ratio of approx. 20% in 2018 and 2019.” 

SIP Scooter Shop

SIP Dealer Day 2018

German Scooter parts and accessory specialist SIP Scooter Shop hosted more than 50 scooter retailers at its annual ‘Dealer Day’ in February at the all-new 6,000 sq m “Palace of Scooter Loveliness” that hardcore self-confessed Vespa aficionados Alex Barth and Ralf Jodl opened two years ago to house the business they started in 1994.



Initially created to answer their own frustration in finding the scooter parts they needed as enthusiasts, today the company carries more than 24,000 scooter parts and accessories, nearly 2,000 of them under their own SIP brand.
After the registration and welcome there was first a breakfast in the Italian themed SIPERIA bar that is integrated into the on-site showroom -  the “most travelled” dealer having come some 800 km to attend the event.



The German wholesaler hosted tours of the facility after some “welcome” words by sales manager Stephan Hufschmid; dealers were able to understand the logistics and management and quality control procedures that processes their orders, gain insights into the philosophy of the business and the range of parts available for use in their workshops and for sale in their stores, and see testing facilities such as the in-house dyno.
Brand new parts on show for the first time included SIP performance cable kits for Vespa and Lambretta that have never been available in volume before for the classic scooters, and new SIP performance ignitions for Vespa and Lambretta – ignitions with more than 110W and a flow and weight optimised engine fan wheel.
In addition, there were several seminars from the product management of SIP, highlighting the latest parts in inventory and top-sellers, with the theme being “POS - additional sales in the workshop”.
Pirelli was on site with their Sales Manager Klaus Thönig and their current scooter tyres range, and there was also plenty of time to network while enjoying Pizza in the SIPERIA or later at a dealer dinner. However, Jodl points to the occasion being far from a one-way exchange as it gives SIP the invaluable feedback any business needs in order to better serve their customers and help move their dealers’ businesses forward in the next 12 months.
www.sip-scootershop.com

Matris

Matris Scrambler suspension options

Italian suspension specialist Matris has released a series of products for the popular Ducati Scrambler series, “a wide and complete line of model-specific products that improve performance and driving comfort”, according to the company.
For the Scrambler 400 Sixty2 and 800, the company’s M46KD is a rebound, length and spring pre-load multi-adjustable shock absorber, which is also available with Matris’ latest IK knob hydraulic spring pre-load, specifically designed for these models. The “Dark Series” black spring is also available as an option to enhance the aesthetics of the installation.

Scrambler Cafe Racer

For the front suspension a complete multi-adjustable hydraulic cartridge kit is offered, using the company’s newest “quad valve” fully adjustable F20K for the 800 model, and the best-selling F15K for the 400 model. As an entry level option Matris also offers their standard spring and hydraulic kits.


Scrambler Desert Sled

For the Scrambler Cafe Racer the multi-adjustable hydraulic rear shock M46KD and M46K-F series are equipped with the Matris “Flex-Knob” hydraulic spring preload unit for easy and fast settings changes; “Dark Series” springs also available.
For the front, their newest “quad valve” F20K, fully adjustable hydraulic cartridge kit is a fully adjustable replacement for all the OEM front suspension internals. Entry level FKS spring kit and FRK hydraulic kit also available.


Scrambler 800

Finally, for the off-road version of the Scrambler Desert Sled, choices include a top of the range model-specific M46R multi-adjustable hydraulic rear shock, mid-point M46K and entry level M46KD -  equipped with standard or hydraulic spring preload, with ‘Shadow’ and ‘Dark Version’ special edition spring options.
For the front fork, options include the fully compression-rebound-preload F20K adjustable hydraulic cartridge and the entry level FRK hydraulic valve and spring kit.
All Matris fork kits are ready to fit without any modification to the original fork and are 100% reversible installs. Dedicated setting and spring rates are available on front fork kits and rear shocks, based on the driver weight.

MATRIS S.R.L.
www.matrisdampers.com

National Cycle

VStream and more

Leading manufacturer National Cycle has a number of windscreen upgrades available for the Kawasaki Z900RS. 


F-Series f-18 fairing and Mohawk Windshield on the new Kawasaki Z900RS
National Cycle’s classic Flyscreen and Plexistar on the Z900RS

The company’s dark tint F-Series F-18 complements the bike’s dual instrument pods, while the classic Flyscreen (light or dark tint, chrome or black) and new-look Mohawk in dark tint and chrome or black add a lot of stylish retro flair.


VStram for KTM 1290 Super Duke GT. National Cycle’s VStream windscreens are made from tough hardcoated polycarbonate. This high-quality material provides outstanding clarity and strength characteristics unmatched by any windscreen maker worldwide. Optically, the VStream Windscreen is clear with virtually no distortion

For practical wind protection National Cycle recommends its timeless Deflector Screen or the larger Street Shield - both available in clear or tint with U-Clamp mounts or easy on-and-off QuickSet mounts; or the Street Shield EX, available clear with included QuickSet mounting hardware.
For serious wind protection or long-distance touring, the company says riders will appreciate the clear Plexistar with built-in lowers and hand deflectors with included QuickSet mount hardware.
The company also has a range of new applications available for its popular VStream windscreens – the KTM 1290 SuperDuke GT, KTM 1290 Super Adventure/T, 2017-18 Kawasaki KLE650/1000 and the 2017-18 Suzuki DL650 V-Strom.
VStream gets its name from its unique patented shape. The advanced 'V' profile and dimensional contours push the wind vortex out and away from the rider's helmet, resulting in a peaceful, quiet riding environment.


VStream for KTM 1290 Super Adventure/T

VStream for Kawasaki KLE650/1000

VStream for Suzuki DL650 V-Strom

These VStream windscreens are made from tough hardcoated polycarbonate. This high-quality material, along with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, provides outstanding clarity and strength characteristics unmatched by any windscreen maker worldwide. Optically, the VStream windscreen is clear with virtually no distortion.
Hardcoated VStream windscreens are more scratch resistant and more crack/impact resistant than other aftermarket windscreens on the market made from commonly used acrylic or "aircraft plastic". These are tough windscreens for riders doing the tough miles.
Depending on the model, they are available in a selection of Sport, Sport Tour and Touring configurations and choice of clear, light or dark tint. All polycarbonate windscreens from National Cycle are protected by a 3-year warranty against breakage.

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.
www.nationalcycle.com

Antigravity

Business opportunity: Antigravity’s all new RE-START Li-Ion battery

Gardena, California based Antigravity Batteries has released what it describes as an all-new “game-changing” RE-START series of lithium-ion starter batteries for motorcycles and powersports vehicles.
The new RE-START battery, with “built-in jump starting”, makes being stranded by a dead battery a thing of the past.  

For example, if a rider left his/her lights on overnight, this would normally be a dead battery emergency requiring jump-starting, push-starting or assistance.  But with the new RE-START batteries, you simply press the RE-START button located on the top of the battery to access the battery’s reserve energy, then start the vehicle and drive away.
There will also be a remote key fob button available, which will allow the rider to trigger the RE-START feature without having to remove the seat or a fairing to access the battery.
“The new RE-START batteries are the most technologically advanced motorcycle/powersports batteries ever built,” says CEO Scott Schafer.
“They are the first lithium-ion powersports batteries with a full Battery Management System (BMS) that actively balances the lithium cells while protecting the battery from overcharge, over-discharge and over-temperature conditions.
“These built-in protections make for the longest service life possible, up to two times the life cycle of lead/acid and other lithium starter batteries on the market. We’ve all been left stranded by a dead battery. It’s awful, frustrating, and in some situations, if you’re in the middle of nowhere, it can be very dangerous.
“Our objective as a leader in lithium-ion technology for motorsports was to create a vehicle battery that the customer can rely on and not worry about getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead battery, and I’m happy and proud to say we have done it with this new battery!”
All Antigravity RE-START batteries have a new 4-terminal-post design, which allows for easy connection for the user, and the ability for the dealer to carry less stock since one battery will work for right or left side connections on the vehicle. 
They also come in direct-fit OEM sizes, so there is no foam needed for installation as required by other brands.  All the new RE-START batteries come with a 3-year warranty. Sizes are available for most modern motorcycles and powersports vehicles, and also race cars.
Established in 2009 offering high power, lightweight and compact lithium-ion batteries for racing motorsports vehicles, Antigravity has since grown into a leader in lithium-ion battery products for all channels of motorsports. Located in Los Angeles, California, Antigravity Batteries” is a company dedicated to building the best in lithium-ion products for the motorsports community,” says Scott.
“We offer the highest quality, most innovative and diverse line of lithium-ion battery products to meet the demands of all motorsports and powersports enthusiasts and beyond - from our multi-award-winning MICRO-START mini jump starters to our wide range of lightweight, high-power lithium-ion starter batteries for motorcycles and more.”

ANTIGRAVITY BATTERIES
www.antigravitybatteries.com

C-Racer

C-Racer SV650 custom kit

Greek custom parts specialist C-Racer has developed a special custom kit with a range of options to update the SV650.



The update options include stylish custom seats with ABS base plates and leather-look cover in brown or black wrapping 40 mm - 60 mm foam. Altogether C-Racer can offer up to 150 seat combinations in six cover colours with choice of five stitch patters and five different thread colours.


The front fender, side number plates, headlight mask and fork guards are in gloss black ABS plastic with UV protection; the headlight guard grill is in black electrostatic coated metal with three different colour options of plexiglass screen.






The radiator grill is available in four different colours; the engine guard is in brushed or black electrostatic coated aluminium; the luggage rack is in black aluminium with black coated metal bracket.
The license plate holder is in black coated metal and the chain guard is in brushed or black electrostatic coated aluminium.
C-Racer products are available through Parts Europe.




PARTS EUROPE

www.partseurope.eu