Spanish motorcycle registrations

Spain - Q1 2026 motorcycle registrations +26.88%

In 2025 full year registration data terms, the one exception among the 'Big Five' motorcycle markets in Europe was Spain - the only country to have seen market growth last year. 

At the time of publication, the most recent published data from ANESDOR (the motorcycle industry association in Spain) covered the first three months of 2026 and, on a Prima facie basis at least, the PTW registration statistics for Spain so far this year are nothing short of spectacular.

For Q1 motorcycle registrations are said to be up by +26.88% YTD at 57,424 units. As the new statistical year started to lap the Euro5+ 'Pre-Reg' compromised 'year ago' data, January is said to have been +14.53 (15,260 units), February +22.70 units (17,110 units) and March up by +39.40% at 24,642 units.

In Q4, 2024 there were many fewer regulation deadline-beating Euro 5/Euro 5+ pre-registrations than was the case elsewhere and, also unlike other 'Big Five' markets, there is genuine growth in demand for new motorcycles and PTWs remains in Spain. In the past two- or three-years, Spain has proven to be the best performing of Europe's major markets in overall economic terms and we have been seen that in our industry too.

In total PTW terms the Spanish market was +25.95% (60,149 units) for the first three months of 2026. Within the overall data, motorcycles were worth 46.4% of the total PTW market (29,462 units) with scooters accounting for 44.0% (27,962 units).

Honda continues to be the market leading brand with an 18.4% share and 11,719 units registered YTD. Yamaha was second (12.8%/8,163  units) with Voge third (8.9% share/5,656 units); followed by Zontes, BMW, Kymco, Sym, Kawasaki, Riejo and Piaggio.

Jose Maria Riano, ANESDOR General Secretary described it as a "solid start" to 2026 stating that "more and more citizens are choosing motorcycles for their mobility advantages, but the increase in demand for leisure motorcycles as an active tourism option also stands out."

For the record: Full year 2025 registrations in Spain were +7.93% over 2024 at 239,729 units. In total PTW terms the Spanish market was +7.29% (252,730 units) for the full year 2025.

News Briefs

Indian conglomerate and TVS Motor Company - owner of Norton Motorcycles since 2020 - has passed Yamaha to become world's third-largest motorcycle manufacturer by annual unit volume. TVS sold approximately 5.46 million motorcycles and scooters in 2025, a 20.7% increase from 4.52 million units the previous year. Yamaha recorded roughly 5 million units, up just 0.8% year over year. The change marks one of the most notable reshuffles in the global motorcycle industry in recent years. Honda, meanwhile, retained its dominant position with 16.44 million units sold globally in 2025, while Hero MotoCorp remained second with 6.25 million units.

Spain - Electric motorcycle manufacturer Stark Future is to enter the FIM EnduroGP World Championship. The Stark OxMoto EnduroGP Team is to race the Stark VARG in E2 and E3 classes of the 2026 Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship. "EnduroGP is not just another championship. It is one of the purest tests of rider, machine, consistency, and endurance in the world of off-road motorsport," said founder Anton Vass. The news comes just weeks after Stark claimed the 2026 FIM SuperEnduro Manufacturers' World Championship title - the first time an electric motorcycle manufacturer has won the title in the series". www.starkfuture.com

Germany - The IVM (German Motorcycle Industry Trade Association) has announced Leo Schlüter as the new project manager for the development of INTERMOT (19-21 February 2027) in Cologne.

International - The 2026 annual Distinguished Gentleman's Ride is slated for Sunday May 17. Uniting classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men's mental health. Founded 15 years ago in Sydney, Australia by Mark Hawwa, the event is generously supported by Triumph Motorcycles and is said to have raised USD $7.6m in 2025 with 127,000 participants in 1,038 Cities across 108 countries. www.gentlemansride.com

Dainese - Following its 'near death experience' in the hands of successive Private Equity ownerships, the 2025 announced sale of Dainese Group to London based "distressed asset" specialists HPS Investment Partners and Arcmont Asset Management has now been given the green light by EU regulators. The deal includes AGV Helmets and TCX Boots. Lino Dainese sold the apparel business he had built to Bahrain based Investcorp for a reported 'Enterprise Value' of € 130m. in 2022. In turn, Investcorp 'flipped' it to American conglomerate Carlyle Group in 2022, for a reported € 630m. The deal with HPS/Arcmont is reported to have been a debt-for-equity swap for a nominal fee of € 1.

If you want more CAKE (the former electric motorcycle brand in Sweden that is) you may be in luck. The owner since the 2024 bankruptcy is Brages Holding AS, a Norwegian car retailer led by Espen Digernes. His ambitions for the well-regarded, robust, design-led CAKE branded premium urban utility PTW platforms has been to restart production build a strong dealer network. The first stage now appears to be in sight, having partnered with the Chinese Keeway Group (Benelli, Morbidelli etc) to "return to production" and start "a fresh push toward sustainable, purpose-built mobility." The companies will "combine CAKE's distinctive design and engineering with Keeway's established production capabilities, a move both sides describe as a "strategic reset and a foundation for long-term stability."

In a multi-year transition that will run from late 2026 through the end of 2028, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.is to formally relocate its U.S. subsidiary from Cypress, California, to Kennesaw, Georgia, selling the land, offices, and warehouse facilities at its 25.1-acre Cypress campus that have been its US Corporate HQ since 1979.

Avon Tyres

Avon Cobra Chrome Whitewalls

Avon Tyres says it has "reclaimed its whitewall heritage" and that with full there is to be a full renewal of Cobra Chrome production following completion of a "full redevelopment of its iconic Cobra Chrome range."

The revival of its "whitewall heritage" represents what will no doubt be a popular come back of one of the Avon brand's most recognisable motorcycle tires. The move comes four years after Avon was integrated into Goodyear's motorcycle brand portfolio alongside Dunlop.

"Cobra Chrome is positioned as Avon's flagship product for cruiser and custom motorcycles, and plays a central role in its renewed product strategy. The range is now offered in 77 SKUs, including 14 sizes featuring the characteristic white sidewall design that has long been associated with Avon's heritage in the custom and classic motorcycle sectors.

"The redevelopment of the Cobra Chrome range follows a wide-ranging industrial upgrade programme across Avon's entire motorcycle business. 

"As part of this, the manufacturing of Avon's premium motorcycle tires has gradually transitioned to Goodyear's state-of-the-art motorcycle centre of excellence in Montlucon, France - a site already renowned in the motorcycle industry for producing Dunlop's premium road tires and championship winning racing products."

To enable Cobra Chrome production at Montlucon, manufacturing processes had to be tailored to the new facility. Many of the Cobra Chrome sizes were new to the French site with extensive re-engineering required. 

Dmitri Talboom, Motorcycle Product Manager

"This work has resulted in improved tire uniformity, higher yields, better operator ergonomics and production quality that is fully aligned with Goodyear manufacturing processes."

Dmitri Talboom, Motorcycle Product Manager, Goodyear, explains: "To bring Avon production in line with Goodyear's quality and performance standards, the Cobra Chrome range has been extensively re-engineered. Montlucon's role in this revival has been crucial."

The return of Cobra Chrome's whitewall SKUs presented unique technical considerations for the Montlucon factory. The white rubber compound has been reformulated to improve resistance to discoloration, while the sidewall assembly process has evolved from a largely manual operation to one that is more automated. Computer-assisted quality checks have also been introduced to better ensure a premium finish.

Talboom added: "Whitewall tires are a defining element of Avon's heritage and remain a distinctive choice for riders of custom and cruiser-style motorcycles. We are proud to see this iconic design back in full production."

Avon Cobra Chrome now sits within a more streamlined Avon motorcycle range that also includes the 3D Supersport hypersport tire, Spirit ST and Roadrider MKII tires for sport-touring applications, Trailrider and Trekrider products for adventure use, and the classic Safety Mileage MKII and Speedmaster MKII products.

Cobra Chrome will be available in 77  front and rear sizes in 2026, covering 15-23-inch fitments, including 14 sizes with a white sidewall design. The majority of sizes are on sale now, with the remainder being released during 2026.

www.avontyres.com

Athena

Choice of Yamaha YFZ R/X 450 cc cylinder kits 

Athena has expanded its product range for Yamaha YFZ 450 cc models with this new stock bore cylinder kit replacements. 

Big bore cylinder kit

"When it's time to service the 450 cc YFZs, choosing the right cylinder kit makes all the difference and Big Bore cylinders are not the only way to upgrade performance and durability. Whether the aim is to restore original reliability or achieve a tangible performance upgrade, Athena offers two complete, proven solutions: the 95 mm Standard Bore 450 cc replacement, as well as the 98mm Big Bore 478 cc kit that is designed for riders seeking increased torque and stronger acceleration."

All Athena cylinder kits owe their reliability and performance to the racetrack, and the Big Bore kit was raced by Simone Mastronardi at the 72 Heures de Pont-de-Vaux – the iconic international endurance race where engines are subjected to 72 hours of continuous stress with no margin for error.

The ideal choice for restoring the original configuration, the Athena standard bore kit is a complete, ready-to-install kit engineered to ensure durability, smooth operation and maximum reliability.

The kits include an aluminum cylinder with nickel-silicon carbide plating, a piston that has been designed to further reduce friction and gaskets developed to ensure optimal sealing.

The 98 mm/478 cc Big Bore big brother kit is for those looking for a real performance upgrade. Engineered to deliver increased displacement and stronger power output while, maintaining the necessary durability, the precision matched components withstand high temperatures and pressures.

ATHENA

www.athena.eu

Motoz

Motoz - Tractionator Outback race tyre

Said to be "built for the toughest rally conditions", Australian Motoz off-road tyre brand owner Bruce Collins Enterprises (BCE) has announced the addition of its newest high-performance rally tyre - the Tractionator Outback Race.

Said to have been four years in development, it has been tested in events like the Finke Desert Race and the 2025 Dakar, where it helped Jordan Strachan finish 69th on his Kove 450.

Bruce Collins said that it is "designed to meet the extreme demands of rally raid racing," and that it is a "significant evolution in off-road tyre technology." Features include a new tread compound and a reinforced carcass "that together deliver enhanced stability, long-lasting endurance, and exceptional performance across a wide range of challenging terrains."

Based on the Euro Enduro 6 tread pattern, the tyre's new tread compound and carcass construction offer "enhanced stability in extreme terrain, improved heat dissipation, and high mileage to endure the toughest races.

"The ability to shed heat makes for consistent performance in extreme temperatures, while the stronger carcass and new compound deliver added durability and stability offering high endurance and performance across extended distances."

Street legal (DOT ECER75 approval), the tyre is available in 140/80-18 size, and is suitable for a range of rally bikes.

MOTOZ PTY LTD

www.motoz.com.au

Planet Knox

Knox - Urban Pro Move

British protective apparel specialist Knox (aka Planet Knox) has launched a new series of upgrades to one of its top-selling undergarment product lines. 

Described as "built for riders who demand more", the company's Urban Pro-Move is a high-performance, CE Class AA-certified armoured shirt designed for maximum breathability, stretch, and flexibility in warm weather.

Building on the popular Mk2/Mk3 platforms, it features lightweight Micro-Lock Level 2 armour, In-Motion mesh, and six internal pockets. It is suitable for a wide range of motorcycle disciplines.

The upgrades target endurance and movement. The brand's signature high tenacity, abrasion resistant fabric remains, and this has been paired with Knox InMotion Mesh. It maintains its CE AA rating and the Knox Micro Lock CE Level 2 armour remains in the shoulders, elbows, and back.

However, the company says that "the feel is transformed. The fit has been re-engineered to better accommodate an optional chest protector, so riders can take their protection to the max. Solid linings are gone, replaced by strong yet lightweight power mesh for next level airflow.

The Urbane Pro Move has been designed to work seamlessly with all styles in the 'Knox Seasonless' Collection. "When it's cool or wet, add a separate Knox warm or waterproof layer that we have designed to work seamlessly with any armoured shirt. One system for every season." Certified to EN17092.

PLANET KNOX

www.planet-knox.com

ACEM

Rightsizing urban mobility: "L-Category vehicles for the cities of tomorrow" 

With 2027 marking a crucial milestone for European cities, the year when many Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) are expected to be implemented, the discussion between Europe's motorcycle industry trade associations has been focussed on how these frameworks are reshaping urban transport. 

At EICMA in November ANCMA and ACEM staged "Rightsizing Urban Mobility: L-category vehicles for the cities of tomorrow" - an urban mobility conference that brought together policymakers, local administrations, and industry leaders to discuss how these vehicles can help cities cut congestion, reduce emissions, and reclaim space for people.

Headquartered in Milan (with a branch in Brussels) TRT Trasporti e Territorio has 35-years as an independent mobility, transport economics, planning, and modeling consultancy that supports public and private decision-makers in sustainable urban mobility, freight logistics, and environmental impact studies.

Sofia Pechin, an urban mobility consultant at TRT described "a clear paradigm shift from traditional, car-centric planning toward approaches centred on people, accessibility, and functionality to face growing challenges and new regulations within the cities." 

Responding to these challenges, through ACEM, the motorcycle industry highlighted how L-category vehicles can offer "immediate and measurable benefits" with Antonio Perlot, Secretary General of ACEM, sharing the preliminary findings from an Oxford Economics study on the Economic importance of motorcycles to Europe - the full report is expected to be published soon.

The report finds that across the EU and UK, powered two-wheelers (PTWs) already save commuters an estimated 25.6 million days annually, compared to car use. A modest 5% modal shift from cars to PTWs could add 28 million days saved, deliver € 3.8 billion in cost savings, and reduce GHG emissions worth € 308 million per year, while freeing urban space equivalent to the area of Paris.

Some European cities are already recognising this potential and working to harness it. Practical examples from Barcelona and Milan illustrate how L-category vehicles are becoming part of local mobility strategies. 

Barcelona's newly established Motorcycle Observatory, developed with ANESDOR, serves as a permanent public-private platform to "design and monitor measures that improve safety, coexistence, and decarbonisation". Demonstrating how collaboration can drive tangible progress. 

In Milan, "where powered two-wheelers already represent a significant share of daily mobility" the city is promoting fleet renewal and incentivising electric PTWs, "reinforcing its commitment to cleaner and more efficient urban transport".

Building on these local success stories, the closing panel at the EICMA conference featured Frank Hansen, Lead Strategist for Sustainable Mobility at BMW Group; Clément Villet, Director of Land Mobility at Yamaha Motor Europe; Vito Parisi, National Vice President for Public Transport, Urban Traffic, and Mobility at ANCI and Pedro Gomes, Clean Vehicles & Air Quality Cluster Lead at POLIS Network as well as Sofia Pechin and Antonio Perlot.

Perlot stated: "There is a clear positive attitude towards the integration of L-category vehicles in urban mobility. What we want to achieve is for policymakers and cities to fully recognise the potential of these vehicles, including them in future SUMPS.  This warrants closer cooperation between public authorities and vehicle manufacturers, providing further opportunities for improved urban mobility."

Mariano Roman, President of ANCMA added that "confindustria ANCMA will continue its dialogue in the coming months with ANCI and its members to ensure that Italian cities fully acknowledge the role and potential of L-category vehicles within their urban mobility strategies."

The panel emphasised that the path to sustainable urban mobility depends on "closer cooperation between cities, industry, and citizens". The key motorcycle industry findings from the Oxford Economics study will appear in an upcoming IDN edition.

News Briefs

German scooter parts, accessories and lifestyle specialist SIP Scootershop has won a German Design Award 2026 for its annual customer magazine CURVE. Honoured as winner in the 'Communication Design Excellence' category, CURVE is a 100-page celebration of all things Vespa and Lambretta - "with a clear focus on the scene, culture, technology and people."

Former BMW VP Stephan Reiff has been added to the Supervisory Board of KTM AG as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) - responsible for Sales, Marketing, Brand Strategy, Dealer Network and Aftersales. 

The Austrian KSR Group is further expanding its international brand portfolio, taking over the official distribution of KOVE Motorcycles in Germany.

LeMans Chairman Paul Langley and legendary Bonneville streamliner racer Denis Manning have been named among the 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame Inductees. Legendary customizer Dave Perewitz receives a Lifetime Achievement award and John Andrews receives the posthumous 'Kickstands Down Award' for his lifetime as a pioneering engineer and founder of cams and gear innovator Andrews Products; www.sturgismuseum.com

BRP says its "design excellence shines globally" as it celebrates 20 International Design Awards in 2025 - including for the Pulse and Origin electric motorcycles, with the entire BRP Design Team having been awarded a Red Dot Design Team of the Year earlier in 2025. A 'bright and shiny' thing indeed!; www.brp.com

Boise, Idaho based Western Power Sports (WPS - part of the same Arrowhead Group as Bihr distribution, All Balls Racing, Vertex and RST apparel) has added distribution for another European group member - the British RFX high-performance offroad motorcycle component specialist.

OMotion, a 2013 founded lightweight, electric 3-wheeled vehicle manufacturer has announced that its new 630 m2 factory has been completed at Lund, Sweden, giving it the capacity to build 200 vehicles a year; www.omotion.se

The Panigale V4 has won a Good Design Award, completing a trio of 2025 international design awards that also includes 2025 iF Design Award and the 2025 Red Dot Award.

Harley-Davidson has confirmed agreements with Niti Racing (Indonesia), who join previously announced teams Saddlemen Race Development (USA), Cecchini Racing Garage (Italy), and Joe Rascal Racing (Australia) on the provisional entry list for their MotoGP hosted Bagger World Cup. Additionally, Joe Rascal Racing has received approval to expand its entry from two to three riders. In terms of format, it has now been announced that at the United States, Netherlands, Great Britain, Aragón (Spain), and Austria Grand Prix the weekend will follow a three-day format with two Free Practice sessions on the Friday, qualifying sessions and Race 1 on Saturday (scheduled immediately after the MotoGP Tissot Sprint) with Race 2 held either on the Sunday morning or afternoon, depending on the event. At the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello, there will be a modified format with FP1, FP 2 and qualifying all on the Friday with the Bagger World Cup Race 1 and Race 2 both on the Saturday.

First it was lay-offs, then re-hires and now it is to be lay-offs again in Austria - as Bajaj Mobility AG (formerly PIERER Mobility AG) starts to flex its muscles and weigh its next steps following effective acquisition of the KTM group of brands. "The aim is to sustainably strengthen competitiveness by reducing fixed costs, streamlining structures, focusing the product and project portfolio, and optimizing our international site and leadership network. As part of this necessary realignment, a reduction of around 500 employees - predominantly in salaried positions and middle management - is unavoidable." The headcount as of December 31, 2025, amounted to 3,794 employees. 

BP Oil has agreed to sell a 65% majority stake in its Castrol lubricants business to alterative investment firm Stonepeak - an Equity Investor by any other name. The deal that values the entire division at $8bn.

CEO & Founder Anton Wass says that his Barcelona, Spain based EV manufacturer Stark Future "opened 2026 with +200% January growth and strong operating momentum." Stark is one of the few e-PTW manufacturers who is actually making money (the Stark 'Varg' is a much admired off-roader). Wass says that the demand remains strong across key markets as delivery capacity and partner confidence improve further; www.starkfuture.com

World Ducati Week

World Ducati Week 2026

This year sees the return of the hugely popular World Ducati Week, but with a difference.

To be staged from 3-5 July, at the Misano World Circuit and the Adriatic Riviera, this edition of WDW will be part of Ducati's 2026 Centenary Celebrations.

The most eagerly awaited moment will again be the Race of Champions, which this year will follow a format featuring free practice and qualifying on Saturday, and the official race on Sunday. 

The 2026 edition World Ducati Week will be the culmination of Ducati's Centenary celebrations, already underway and slated to reach their peak at the Misano World Circuit - Saturday, 4 July will be the exact anniversary of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer: " the event will go beyond the boundaries of a gathering to become a global celebration of two wheels, capable of uniting generations of enthusiasts in one big community."

There will be new products, contests and in-depth sessions with Ducati engineers, designers and experts, alongside opportunities to meet riders from the present and past. There will be many chances to take to the track with one's own motorcycle, Ducati model Test Rides and Riding Experience sessions, culminating in the parade – "one of the unmissable rituals of WDW - a spectacular 'snake' of motorcycles that comes to life with a lap of the circuit."

All WDW ticket holders will be able to visit the Ducati factory and the Ducati Museum in Borgo Panigale at a reduced rate. For accompanied minors up to the age of 18, admission to the event will cost a symbolic € 1. Admission will be free of charge for participants coming from outside Europe (Asia, Africa, the Americas and Oceania), for people with disabilities and their accompanying people. A special discounted rate is available only to Ducati Official Club members active for the 2026 season. 

www.ducati.com

GET

GET CDI control unit - 2026 Yamaha YZ 125

GET has expanded the compatibility of its CDI control unit for the Yamaha YZ 125 cc to make it available for MY 2026.

"A solution that has already been well appreciated for the improved performance, control and reliability we developed for Yamaha's iconic motocross model is designed to enhance the responsive character of Yamaha's two-stroke engine," says GET Brand Manager Emanuele Gobbi.

Offering two pre-installed maps for racing or wet conditions set-ups, features include seamless plug & play installation, increased power and maximised reliability.

"Additionally, thanks to the [separately available] GET Maya programming software, it is possible to further modify the ignition advance curve to customize the mapping according to the rider's specific needs," says Emanuele.

"CDI is the ECU for 2-stroke carburettor engines, it is the perfect device to optimise the management of the ignition curve and to maximize the engine performances. CDI is plug & play on standard engines".

ATHENA

www.athena.eu

BS Battery

Power Box - BS Battery expands booster range

Paris based battery and charger specialist BS Battery has expanded its range of boosters with its new Power Box AIR  and Power Box MAX.

The new additions are "to meet growing market demand" and "build on the strong success of our Power Box. These two new high-value solutions allow distributors and their dealers to address a wider variety of customer needs with a clear, segmented offering."

Their original Power Box quickly became a "best seller" as a result of the two most important features any Power Boost device can have - reliability and versatility. However, as usage patterns continued to evolve, BS Battery says it has identified two new key demands from riders and professionals alike - even greater functionality for everyday mobility, and even greater starting power for larger vehicles and ever-increasing power requirements. 

"The result is a smarter, more targeted booster range. The Power Box AIR (1,200A for 12V lead-acid batteries with up to 20 jump starts per charge) integrates a built-in air compressor  delivering up to 10.3 bar / 150 PSI for tyres, sports gear, and more) combining battery boosting and tyre inflation in one compact device.

For distributors and their dealers, it represents a strong upselling opportunity in the accessories and travel equipment segment. 

The Power Box MAX, a powerful 2,000A jump starter, designed for higher engine capacities and more demanding applications, is able to deliver up to 40 jump starts on a single charge for 12V lead-acid batteries, including gas engines up to 8.0 litres and diesel engines up to 6.0 litres.

"This accessory is the ideal solution to jump start your battery when your battery is hard to reach, hidden, or when using clamps is not possible. It answers the needs of professional users and customers seeking maximum performance and reliability. We have brought ergonomics to jump stating!"

BS BATTERY

www.bs-battery.com

Galfer USA

Galfer USA Partners with MotoAmerica

The American subsidiary of the Spanish braking specialist Galfer has signed a multi-year partnership with North America's premier motorcycle road racing championship - the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship Series.

Gary Hazel as National Sales Manager

Orlando, Florida based Galfer USA has been operating in the American market for over 30 years, providing high-performance braking solutions to professional teams, OEM manufacturers, dealers, and enthusiasts across the United States. "With over 70 years of experience, Galfer is globally recognized for its technological innovation, precision-engineered rotors, and racing brake pads used at the highest levels of motorcycle competition."

Armando Riva, Country Manager of Galfer USA said: "MotoAmerica represents the highest level of road racing in the U.S., and that's exactly where Galfer belongs. We're excited to engage in a partnership that puts our products side-by-side with the best riders, showcasing how closely our brand is connected to elite-level performance."

"In recent years, Galfer has strengthened its presence in the most prestigious motorcycle racing competitions, bringing its technology to the highest levels of the MotoGP World Championship. In 2024, rider Ai Ogura of the MT Helmets - MSI team won the Moto2 World Championship using Galfer Floatech rotors and Racing G1310 brake pads, confirming the reliability and high performance of the company's solutions."

In additional news, Galfer USA has strengthened its North American team with key appointments. For the motorcycle sector, Galfer USA welcomes Gary Hazel as National Sales Manager. Hazel brings more than two decades of experience across nearly every discipline of motorcycle racing and the powersports industry, including Enduro, Motocross, Road Racing, Dirt Track, and Vintage competition. 

He represented the United States three times at the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) and has played a pivotal role in the powersports industry, including owning Thumper Racing and leading dealer development and brand growth for manufacturers such as FMF, Kawasaki Team Green, KTM, Sherco, Fantic, and Rieju.

Bajaj Mobility AG

Bajaj Mobility AG Annual Financial Report 2025

Mattighofen, Austria based Bajaj Mobility AG - the new name for Pierer Mobility AG and the KTM AG holding company - has released its first set of full year financial results since its 2023-2025 'near death experience'. Against the backdrop of what it describes as a "record motorsport season" it is reporting a "successful turnaround following an intensive year of restructuring and operational stabilisation".

CEO Gottfried Neumeister: "as of today March 26 we had already sold more than twice as many motorcycles as in the first quarter of 2025".

Citing a "clear turnaround in the second half of the year" following a restructuring-driven start to the 2025 financial year, the company says it now has now established a "solid foundation for profitable growth."

Business performance highlights include a strong recovery in H2 2025 retail sales, increasing by around 60 % compared to H1 and a previously referenced € 1,193m restructuring gain. In its provisional financial report released at the end of March 2026, the company says revenue was € 1.009bn on sales volume of 209,704 units with an EBITDA of € 874m, EBIT of 

€ 748m and net profit of € 590m - raising its equity ratio to 24.3 % (on equity of € 385m) and "significantly" reducing net debt to € 798m.

Inventory had been reduced by 101,153 units to 147,427 vehicles (from 248,580). In motorsport terms 2025 is described as "the most successful year in the company's history" with 29 championship titles bagged.

CFO Petra Preining is quoted as stating that "2025 was a year of intensive financial reorganization. Through consistent inventory reduction, a focus on a sustainable cost structure and successful refinancing measures, we have clearly strengthened our financial base. We have created the conditions for a more profitable 2026.

"The restructuring and realignment measures initiated in 2025 included strengthening of our capital structure". KTM AG secured an unsecured loan of € 550m from an international banking consortium consisting of J.P. Morgan SE, HSBC, DBS Bank Limited and MUFG Bank Ltd - "a key milestone and strong signal of confidence from the financial markets.

"The five-year unsecured financing at exceptionally favoruable terms underlines the renewed confidence of leading financial institutions in the company's business strategy and operational strength. This replaces the existing, significantly higher-interest loan from Bajaj Auto amounting to € 450m, thereby substantially improving the group's financial stability and flexibility and creating the liquidity base for the planned growth phase."

Additionally, KTM AG secured a new factoring facility of € 150m and a working capital facility of € 50m.

At the same time, "the company sharpened its strategic focus on its core motorcycle business." Non-strategic business areas were divested - MV Agusta, KTM X-Bow and the entire bicycle segment are gone.

Their motorsport dominance has already continued into Q1 of 2026 with successes including Luciano Benavides winning the 2026 Dakar Rally for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Billy Bolt securing the 2026 SuperEnduro World Championship for Husqvarna Factory Racing.

For the 2026 financial year "the focus is on further improving profitability" including "focused management of the product and project portfolio as well as strengthening the international production and sales organization.

Adventure R

Adventure S

The Premium Manufacturer's Warranty has been expanded with a four-year warranty now applying to all street-legal KTM and Husqvarna models from model year 2025 onwards, for the first time.

Adventure EVO

CEO Gottfried Neumeister is quoted as stating that "we have made an outstanding start to 2026. It is particularly encouraging that our new models are being received very positively by our customers. As of today [March 26, 2026] we have already sold more than twice as many motorcycles as in the first quarter of the previous year. Inventory reduction is also progressing extremely well."

The company says that "management is aware of the current geopolitical uncertainties and their potential negative impact and is continuously monitoring developments. Appropriate countermeasures are being evaluated."

German motorcycle registrations

Germany - motorcycle registrations +38.66% to February 2026

The most recent available data from the IVM (the motorcycle industry trade association for Germany) shows first two months of 2026 growing at +38.66% (11,786 units).

Welcome though the news is, as elsewhere in Europe the data is somewhat distorted as statistical reporting starts to lap the late 2024 effects of the rush to pre-register unsold Euro 5 inventory before the new Euro 5+ regulatory framework became active at the start of 2025. 

Those units were (mostly) subsequently sold by dealerships in 2025 (in H1 especially) making the apparently extreme decline in new registrations in Germany last year a less than entirely reliable metric.

January in Germany saw reported growth of +70.56% (3,696 units) with February at +27.74% (8,090 units).

Total PTW registrations in January and February in Germany were +41.33% at 17,368 new registrations in total.

As to be expected, the BMW R 1300 GS continues its market domination as the best seller in Germany with 970 units sold for a YTD 8.23% market share. The Kawasaki Z 900 remains in second spot, followed by the BMW F900 R and F 900 GS, S 1000 RR and F 800 GS. The Yamaha MT-07 was the 7th most popular model in Germany so far in 2026, with the BMW F 900 XR, Yamaha Ténéré 700 and BMW S 1000 XR filling the rest of the Top 10 spots. 

BMW has 14 models in the list of the top 50 best sellers in Germany for 2026 so far; Honda has 12, Kawaski six, Yamaha and Suzuki four each and Triumph, Bird and CFMoto two each. In 2025 Honda closed the market share gap on BMW, ending the year only fractionally behind with a 20.30 % market share (19,571 units).

In the electric (light) motorcycles segment in Germany Stark Future has taken market leadership from Zero with 176 units sold to 35 for Zero Motorcycles (now a Dutch globally headquartered American manufacturer), ahead of NIU with 20, LiveWire with 12, Electric Motion and Vmoto with seven each.

For the record: total motorcycle registrations in Germany in 2025 were recorded as being a Euro 5 'pre-reg' distorted -36.02 (97,699 units) with total PTWs at -35.50% (161,744 units).

Athena - GET

Athena and GET in 2026 MXGP partnership

Athena and GET have renewed their long-term collaboration with Infront Moto Racing for the 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship MXGP.

"The MXGP World Championship continues to be a strategic global platform: a true on-track testing ground where GET constantly tests, validates and develops its electronic solutions under real race conditions, working side by side with factory teams, riders and engineers," said Stefania Vercesi, Athena Chief Marketing Officer.

There will be new strategic collaborations for GET in the paddock in 2026, with established partnerships with the likes of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing seeing them continue to use the complete GET electronics package. 

GET electronics also supports Yamaha's entire development structure, with an active presence in the EMX and WMX categories through partner teams.

"GET technology remains central to the technical development of Kawasaki Racing Team in the MX2 class," says Stefania, "while the collaboration with Beta Factory Racing continues through GET Smart Tools."

Athena and GET have also confirmed their support for the Ducati Factory MX Team, accompanying the debut of the Desmo250MX in MX2 through Team Beddini Racing, also active in the European EMX250 program.

"New in 2026, we have TM Moto joining the GET family, adopting data acquisition systems as part of its performance program."

www.athena.eu

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italy - Q1 2026 motorcycle registrations +13.93%

Italy has got its mojo back! For the first three months of 2026 the Italian market appears to have returned to growth, but this is the first published data since the industry started to lap the statistical anomalies caused by the late 2024 Euro 5/Euro 5+ transition - so some caution is required.

In motorcycle terms the first three months were +13.93% at 35,637 units registered. January was +16.26% (8,099 units), February was +11.63% (10,595 units) with March +14.31% (16,943 units).

In total PTW terms the YTD data has Q1 +14.34% (82,023 units) with a ‘Massive March’ that saw growth of +21.95% at 39,606 unit registrations. Scooters were +14.65% for the YTD at 46,386 with motorcycles +13.93

As usual, Q1 saw scooters dominate the list of top-sellers in Italy, with Honda Italia’s SH 125, 350 and 150 series taking the top three spots (over  11,000 units for the first three months between them) followed by their X-ADV 750 and ADV 350 to give them a top-5 lock-out. 

The Zontes ZT368T-G was sixth, followed by the Kymco Agility 125 S, the Yamaha TMAX, The Piaggio Liberty 125 ABS and the Voge SFIDA SR16 in tenth spot.

The top-selling larger displacement motorcycles were all ADV platforms with the Honda Africa Twin in 15th place overall (1,033 units) and the BMW R 1300 GS and R 1300 GS Adventure in 16th and 17th place with 948 and 783 units sold respectively.

For the record: Motorcycle registrations for the 2025 full year in Italy were put at 134,480 units (-19.22%), though the official data does not include the unsold Euro 5 models that were pre-registered in late 2024 but still (mostly) sold from dealerships in 2025. 

SIP Scootershop

SIP - Open Day

SIP Scootershop (Landsberg am Lech, near Munich) will stage its popular 2026 Open Day on 16 May - the event that fires a starting gun for the scooter season throughout Bavaria and beyond.

The last SIP Open Day attracted around 3,500 scooter riders from near and far. The Thursday before the Open Day is Ascension Day, a public holiday, and Munich hosts the Vespa Corso. Two great events on one long weekend!

As ever all the usual attractions and creature comforts will make it a fun day - from crispy pizza cooked in the wood-fired Ape, to food and drink from the Italian SIPERIA café bar and a Custom Scooter Show.

Visitors always report that highlight though is the chance to tour SIP's architect designed, purpose-built headquarters and to have your scooter tested on their calibrated P4 Amerschlaeger test bench (dynamometer).

Every year there are more vendors and an always growing parts and used scooter market for bargains and rarities.

Among the parts that will be on show will be SIP's performance upgrade kits and its Mk II 2.0 design forged aluminum rims for all modern Vespa GTS models - an update to the new-in-2025 seen in IDN a yar ago.

With reduced 3,000 g weight (and therefore improved handling) compared to comparable 13" rims, they meet German and international strength and durability standards, have a dynamic design with concave surface, are approved for wide tyres up to 140/60-13" and ship with the ABE general operating permit certificate.

www.sip-scootershop.com

RK Chain

Sealed chain solution for vintage motorcycles 

­The RK 530UWR chain is specifically designed for vintage motorcycles that originally came equipped with narrow-clearance, non-sealed 530-size chains. 

Leveraging RK's exclusive ultra-thin seal (UW-Ring) technology, the 530UWR achieves the durability of a sealed chain while maintaining a width comparable to a standard non-sealed chain - "making it the perfect upgrade without compromising fitment". 

Ideal for classic British bikes like Norton and Triumph, as well as Japanese vintage motorcycles from the 1970s and 1980s, the RK 530UWR is the "go-to choice for riders looking to enhance reliability while preserving authenticity." 

The chain features a silver coating on the inner and outer plates, pins, and rollers, offering excellent protection against rust and corrosion. 

By upgrading from a non-sealed to a sealed chain, riders can expect at least four times the chain life, along with significantly reduced adjustment requirements after the initial stretch of the chain.

RK JAPAN

www.rk-europe.com

TecMate

OptiMate Duo does the thinking for you

The OptiMate DUO family of battery chargers is designed to deliver on a very simple premise - make charging and maintaining of a battery easy, and so without the need for the rider to know what type of battery is in their vehicle - if it is a 12V, then an OptiMate DUO can charge and maintain that battery without issue. 

OptiMate 1 Duo

CEO and Chief Technical Officer of manufacturer TecMate says that it is the OptiMate DUO's charging algorithm that does all the 'heavy lifting' - "adjusting automatically for whether it is a Pb/lead-acid or lithium motorcycle battery, an especially valuable feature during long term maintenance where a Pb / AGM battery requires continuous maintenance to remain at 100%, but lithium LFP battery does not." 

OptiMate 2 Duo x4

Lead-acid / AGM batteries receive an hourly 'float charge' to keep the battery at 100%, but when it comes to lithium, the OptiMate DUO charger backs off and monitors the battery hourly, delivering that 'float charge' to bring it back up to around 90% - but only if it had dropped down below 70% due to the drain from the motorcycle's electronics. Clever stuff. Simple stuff. 

"Using an OptiMate DUO charger really is as simple and fully automatic as that - connect to the battery and that's it. No buttons to push, no thinking required. Once connected, the OptiMate DUO charger does the thinking for you and adapts automatically, delivering a true 'connect & forget, no more battery problems' experience." 

OptiMate10 watt solar panel

Two connection options are included - a fused battery lead / harness with M6 ringlets and a protected SAE connector, and a set of battery clips that are designed specifically for the square posts of a motorcycle battery. 

"The range has a selection of options and entry-points," says Martin. "OptiMate 1 DUO is a popular choice, a balance between function and price, delivering up to 0.6A of charge current, ideal for any motorcycle, ATV or UTV that does not have continuously active electronics like a keyless ignition system. 

"With more sophisticated systems and heavier draws the dealer needs to step up to the OptiMate 2 DUO that delivers up to 2 Amps of charge current for a faster charge and sufficient maintenance current for those touring and adventure motorcycles with key-less ignition (key-fob) and electronic lockable side cases / bags."  

The OptiMate 2 DUO range extends to 2-bank and 4-bank models that are ideal for multi-vehicle maintenance or new battery preparation. Each independent bank delivers 2 Amps and automatically adapts to the connected battery type, which means you could have different lead-acid (flooded or AGM) or lithium LFP batteries connected to the same multi-bank charger, which certainly makes battery preparation or maintenance as easy as you like. 

For situations where there is no AC power available there are two off-grid options to consider. The first is the OptiMate DC-DUO that delivers up to 2 Amps of charge to a 12V battery, whilst drawing power from another 12V source or battery, or from the battery in a car or pickup truck. The OptiMate DC-DUO is an essential tool for the rider who wants to maintain a battery in a motorcycle or even their car that is parked in a 'off-grid' storage area. The second option is the OptiMate Solar DUO range with 10W, 20W and 40W options available. 

"Never-mind battery type or size, one of the OptiMate DUO family 'members' will make your customers' battery problems go away and at the same time reduce questionable battery returns," says Martin. "If you want it easy, choose the OptiMate DUO range of chargers". 

TECMATE

www.tecmate.com

www.optimate1.com

News Briefs

German scooter parts, accessories and lifestyle specialist SIP Scootershop has won a German Design Award 2026 for its annual customer magazine CURVE. Honoured as winner in the 'Communication Design Excellence' category, CURVE is a 100-page celebration of all things Vespa and Lambretta - "with a clear focus on the scene, culture, technology and people."

Former BMW VP Stephan Reiff has been added to the Supervisory Board of KTM AG as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) - responsible for Sales, Marketing, Brand Strategy, Dealer Network and Aftersales. 

The Austrian KSR Group is further expanding its international brand portfolio, taking over the official distribution of KOVE Motorcycles in Germany.

LeMans Chairman Paul Langley and legendary Bonneville streamliner racer Denis Manning have been named among the 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame Inductees. Legendary customizer Dave Perewitz receives a Lifetime Achievement award and John Andrews receives the posthumous 'Kickstands Down Award' for his lifetime as a pioneering engineer and founder of cams and gear innovator Andrews Products; www.sturgismuseum.com

BRP says its "design excellence shines globally" as it celebrates 20 International Design Awards in 2025 - including for the Pulse and Origin electric motorcycles, with the entire BRP Design Team having been awarded a Red Dot Design Team of the Year earlier in 2025. A 'bright and shiny' thing indeed!; www.brp.com

Boise, Idaho based Western Power Sports (WPS - part of the same Arrowhead Group as Bihr distribution, All Balls Racing, Vertex and RST apparel) has added distribution for another European group member - the British RFX high-performance offroad motorcycle component specialist.

OMotion, a 2013 founded lightweight, electric 3-wheeled vehicle manufacturer has announced that its new 630 m2 factory has been completed at Lund, Sweden, giving it the capacity to build 200 vehicles a year; www.omotion.se

Matris

Matris suspension options for CFMoto 675 SR-R

Italian suspension specialist Matris has a complete range of suspension upgrade options for the 2025 and up CF Moto 675 SR-R sport-racing bike.

At the front, a full range of hydraulic, asymmetric quad-valve system, cartridge kits is available with a choice between 25 mm asymmetric "sealed and pressurised" F25SA top high-end cartridge, 25 mm asymmetric "classic" quad valve F25R - "our classic cartridge for race-track", and the 20 mm asymmetric quad valve F20K as an entry level OE upgrade replacement.

All are fully adjustable on compression, rebound and spring preload, and as usual with Matris replacement front-end component upgrades, they replace all the original internal fork parts for a 'mod-free', plug & play, totally reversible install.

At the rear, Matris' sophisticated three-way "R" series shock for race and track use is said to be a good choice for the 675 SR-R, with a choice of two systems - the two-way (medium level) M46K fully multi-adjustable (compression, rebound, ride-hight, preload) and the entry-level M46KD.

All can be equipped with the hydraulic spring preload unit for an easy and quick change of setting according to rider needs. They are available with classic orange spring or, in the Dark Series, with black spring.

Different spring rates are available for front and rear suspensions allowing Matris suspension products to be tuned for weight load and riding preferences. 

For greater safety at high speed on track or road, and to reduce front wheel shake, a choice of Matris ready-to-fit steering dampers are available, with their well-known 'Speed Sensitive System' SDR and SDK series.

Fully adjustable, hydraulic functioning and Nitrogen gas pressurised, they replace the OEM dampers, using the original mounts.

MATRIS S.R.L.

www.matrisdampers.com