Galfer

Galfer – Floatech brake discs with 'Kashima Coat'

Spanish high-performance braking system component manufacturer Galfer has added a new finish to its patented Floatech Racing system brake discs - introducing the exclusive Kashima finish, "Japan's premium-grade anodising", now applied to the hubs of its Floatech Racing range.

Described as a technical breakthrough, this is thought to be the first time the wear resistant, friction reducing coating has been used on a motorcycle brake disc.

First seen in MTB applications in the early 1980s, 'Kashima Coat' was a joint development by the Miyaki Corporation and Fujikura Electric Wire in Japan.  A lubricated anodising process, it provides a gold-coloured coating for metal surfaces that historically was initially and primarily used on bicycle suspension forks and shocks (especially by FOX) to reduce friction, increase wear resistance, and improve durability. 

The process involves embedding molybdenum disulfide, a solid lubricant, into the porous hard anodized surface and Galfer has now succeeded in applying it to the Floatech system, in which the brake track and hub operate under extreme temperature and stress conditions.

Galter validated the performance of its new 'Kashima' coated Floatech brake discs with leading teams, included the MT Helmets - MSI team - the Moto2 (MotoGP) 2024 World Champions with Ai Ogura, who use Galfer components in its racing prototypes. "Track and in-house dynamometer testing confirm the material strength, thermal efficiency, and mechanical precision of the Floatech system, ensuring consistent performance even after prolonged braking cycles and high temperatures".

Galfer launched its first Floatech brake discs in 2021. "These new Floatech Racing Kashima discs retain all the advantages of the original system while enhancing them with this pioneering finish. The improved thermal behaviour that is achieved by the coating above 200°C moderates brake track expansion, preventing locking or deformation.

"The lightweight structure of the hub design has been optimized through FEM (Finite Element Method) simulations to achieve an exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio. A system of washers and preloaded springs results in perfect disc/pad alignment - the disc maintains its ideal position, preventing the pad knock-back that typical of other systems that allow free-play and generate noise.

Patented worldwide (EP4075008B1), the technology used in the Floatech system "is born directly from the racetrack, where every detail is developed and tested under extreme conditions to guarantee maximum efficiency, stability, and control. Track and in-house dynamometer testing have confirmed the material strength, thermal efficiency, and mechanical precision of the Floatech system, ensuring consistent performance - even after prolonged braking cycles and high temperatures."

The new Galfer Floatech Racing Kashima discs will initially be available in 310, 320 and 330 mm diameter and 5.5 to 6.3 mm thicknesses for sportbike model applications such as Honda CBR 600–1000 RR, Kawasaki ZX-10R, Yamaha R1–R6–R9, Ducati Panigale and Streetfighter, Triumph Daytona 675, and BMW S-M 1000 RR.

www.galfermoto.com

News Briefs

INTERMOT 2025 will be staged at the Cologne, Germany International Exhibition Centre from December 4 - 7, 2025. This will be the second year for the now annual 'new-gen' INTERMOT in its early December, pre-Christmas slot. Owned by the German Motorcycle Industry Trade Association (IVM), earlier this year organiser Koelnmesse announced the intention of adding an extra hall (Hall 6) to the two (7 & 8) used last year to "create new opportunities for showcasing, experience areas and brand presence". By November 17 leading manufacturers such as BMW Motorrad, Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Royal Enfield, Suzuki and Triumph as well as key players in the accessories market such as SW-Motech, Wunderlich, Shark, Nolan and Wilbers had already confirmed that they will be appearing, with the top teams from Honda, BMW, and Yamaha present on all days.

The IVM in Germany is pointing to a recent press release from the German Traffic Watch that comments negatively on the option of light power use for class B driving licence holders with a minimum age of 25 years - painting a one-sided reductive picture. The issue in question is interpretation of accident statistics. Since 2020, there has been an option in Germany to drive light motorcycles up to 125 cc and a maximum of 11 kW of power with a car driver's license, a minimum age of 25 years and a theoretical and practical driving school training of at least 13.5 hours. At that time, this was a new mobility option in Germany, which had already existed in several neighbouring European countries for many years. Over 300,000 German citizens have chosen the 25-years driving licence option in recent years.

In the US, Texas based Central Powersports Distribution (CPD) has announced pause of 2026 Portuguese made AJP Motorcycle imports due to tariff challenges. CDP specialises in European brand imports - also handling Rieju (Spain), Electric Motion (France) and SWM Motorcycles (Italy).

The Parts Unlimited Talent Cup championship in the United States is features limited-production German made APX-350 MA machines purpose made at Kramer's factory in Berghausen. The competition-use-only race-ready bikes are Imported by Krämer Motorcycles USA (North Dakota) with a US MSRP of $28,995. 

The Austrian KSR Group has taken over distribution of BSA brand in selected markets. From the start of November 2025, KSR took over responsibility for BSA in Germany, Austria and Greece. Initial models include the Gold Star and Scrambler 650s and Bantam 350. Once the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer, along with PEUGEOT Motorcycles, BSA is now part of the Indian Mahindra industrial group.

ACEM has welcomed the publication of the delegated acts integrating cybersecurity requirements (UNECE R155) into the EU type-approval framework for L-category vehicles. "These measures strengthen the digital resilience of the industry and align the sector with global standards. ACEM remains committed to close cooperation with the European Commission and @UNECE on cybersecurity and digitalisation."

October saw Indian owner TVS hand its Birmingham, UK based Norton subsidiary a € 290m (£250m/$335m) investment programme. Reports suggest that it could result in some 7,000 jobs, with 500 of them near Norton's UK home.

BSA

BSA Thunderbolt

By Ben Purvis

The name Thunderbolt might be associated with Buells from the 1990s but way back in the 1960s it graced a BSA model. Now it has returned to that brand on a new 350 cc adventure bike.

After Buell's rights to the name expired, along with its claim to another ex-BSA title, Lighting, BSA filed trademark applications covering both badges back in 2023. Now the BSA Thunderbolt is reality, albeit on a much smaller machine than either the original BSA or the Buell that last used the badge.

The original BSA Thunderbolt was a 650cc twin, but the new machine borrows its 344cc, liquid-cooled single from the BSA Bantam. It's also used by the Roadster, Scrambler and Adventure models offered by BSA's sister company, Yezdi, which is another part of owner Mahindra's  Classic Legends stable. 

In the Thunderbolt, the 334 cc motor puts out 29.16 hp and 29.56 Nm of torque - both unusually specific claims - driving through a six-speed transmission. The numbers are nearly identical to the figures claimed for the Bantam, suggesting both bikes use the same state of tune.

The chassis is a simple, tubular steel design, with non-adjustable 41 mm forks and a preload-adjustable monoshock, offering 200 mm and 180 mm of travel respectively, while the 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire wheels mean the bike can accept serious offroad tyres if you really want to venture far from the beaten track.

GIVI

TREKKER LITE

The TRK33BB and TRK46BB from GIVI, part of the TREKKER LITE family, combine practicali-ty, durability and aesthetics in a solution designed for every kind of travel. Available in 33 or 46 litre capacity, they are designed for both side and rear use on crossover, Enduro and Touring models.

They can be mounted either on the rear with a Monokey plate (including the M10, which offers a shock absorption system) or on the side. Both cases are available in black plastic only, and feature a black plastic insert and contrasting grid-like reinforcement in technopolymer. The entire lid can be opened or just the uppermost hatch, allowing quick access to contents. 

Both cases guarantee high weather resistance, and have been tested in heavy rain simulations with a flowrate of over 20 litres a minute, ensuring total protection. 

The capacity of TRK33BB is 33 litres, and 46 litres for the TRK46BB. Maximum load is 10 kg, and the dimensions are 526 x 411 x 230 mm (TRK33BB) and 526 x 411 x 310 mm (TRK46BB).

GIVI S.P.A.

www.givimoto.com

Akrapovic

Akrapovic - R9 complete system 

Earlier in 2025 Akrapovic released a brand-new Racing Line (Titanium) exhaust system for the 2025 Yamaha R9 - inspired by the muffler design seen in Akrapovic exhaust systems for the Yamaha R6, R7, and R1.

 It features a high-grade lightweight titanium muffler outer sleeve and end cap, with a stainless-steel link pipe, headers, and pre-muffler. It follows the muffler design of its predecessors in the Yamaha R range, providing a real family feel and continuity. 

The system utilises race-proven materials and has a similar design to the Akrapovic exhaust systems used by the Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing and GMT94 Yamaha racing teams in the World Supersport Championship.

Developed to complement the bike's lines, it has a pre-muffler positioned under the body and hidden by the lower fairings of the motorcycle - exiting on the right side of the motorcycle - to enhance the racing appearance. The system is EC/ECE type approved (Euro 5+), and an aluminium muffler bracket is also included. 

Akrapovic engineers focused on throttle response during the development process, alongside power gains in the mid and high rev range. This has led to power and torque increases of +2.2 kW (3.0 hp) at 10,000 rpm and +2.6 Nm at 9,500 rpm compared to stock. It is a 'plug-and-play' install, with no remapping required.

AKRAPOVIC

www.akrapovic.com

Acerbis

Acerbis AIRSTRIKE-C

The Acerbis AIRSTRIKE-C is a completely new top-of-the-range Carbon Fibre MX/Enduro helmet. "The result of extensive work by Acerbis R&D team, it has been developed in collaboration with testers and riders to deliver the perfect combination of technology, safety, lightness and comfort."

The carbon fibre outer shell is made in two sizes to cover sizes XS to XXL, with a "style that blends European and American lines, the design of the AIRSTRIKE-C is not only intended to look good: every element has been developed to offer performance and functionality. 

"Fully compatible with all modern neck braces, the shape of the shell is also designed to keep the goggle strap perfectly in place, while the wide front opening ensures maximum visibility and compatibility with all modern large goggles."

Advanced features include a lightweight and secure red Ergal double D-ring closure; completely removable, hypoallergenic, breathable and washable interior, made with high sweat absorption capacity soft-touch fabrics; cheek pads that have an "innovative fastening system that makes them easy to remove, with silicone logos to indicate the release points", and a Quick Release System for rapid removal in case of emergency.

Ventilation is by four front air intakes and six rear extractors. The air intakes are secured with screws so they can be easily removed to facilitate maintenance and cleaning of the shell. To further promote internal air circulation, Acerbis has introduced the A.C.S. (Acerbis Comfort System) with the upper part of the padding featuring a series of elastic bands and hexagonal rubber suction cups designed to increase ventilation and fit.

The action camera friendly shell uses a uniquely shaped and easily extended peak that presses onto the carbon fibre shell without the use of screws, ensuring practicality, a minimalist look and a linear surface. 

The AIRSTRIKE-C weighs just 1,150 g ± 50 g, making it one of the lightest ECE 2206-certified helmets on the market.

ACERBIS ITALIA

www.acerbis.com