EICMA

'EICMA.SHIFT UP' - "Legends of Speed" brings the history of MotoGP to Milan for the first time

For the first time in the history of EICMA, more than 70 years of premier-class racing will come together in an exhibition covering over 1,400 sq m (approx. 15,000 sq ft) featuring more than 35 motorcycles, the MotoGP Gaming Arena, fan engagement activities and the chance to win exclusive experiences at the 2027 Italian Grand Prix.

Just over three months after announcing the strategic partnership between MotoGP and EICMA, the first major project to come out of the collaboration is "Legends of Speed" - an exhibition that will bring a major showcase dedicated to more than 70 years of premier-class Grand Prix motorcycle racing to the show for the first time in EICMA's history. 

The journey will begin with the AJS Porcupine 500, the motorcycle on which Leslie Graham claimed the inaugural 500 cc World Championship title in 1949, before travelling through the great eras of the Championship: from the three- and four-cylinder MV Agusta 500s ridden by Giacomo Agostini and Phil Read to the Yamahas that shaped the history of the premier class, including Valentino Rossi's; from the legendary Honda NSRs to the Suzukis of Kevin Schwantz and Franco Uncini, through to the Ducatis of the more recent era and an absolute masterpiece of Italian engineering, the Moto Guzzi 500 V8. 

Bringing the journey full circle will be the official MotoGP machines from the five manufacturers competing in the 2026 World Championship, brought together as part of the exhibition.

Features will include a high-impact visual installation, archive images and materials, audiovisual and interactive content - "an experience designed to engage both passionate fans and new generations."

Paolo Magri, CEO of EICMA, and Pietro Meda, President of EICMA S.p.A. said "Legends of Speed perfectly embodies the spirit of SHIFT UP: bringing together the highest expression of motorcycle sport with the place where the global two-wheel industry meets and presents its future."

But "Legends of Speed" will be just one chapter in the MotoGP–EICMA partnership. "Backed by FIM, motorcycle racing will become part of the EICMA experience through activations and touchpoints throughout the event, fan engagement initiatives, digital content and activities dedicated to the public." 

These will include the MotoGP Gaming Arena, a space dedicated to gaming and younger generations, adding another dimension to the MotoGP experience at EICMA.

The 83rd EICMA edition - 5 to 8 November 2026 at Fiera Milano Rho

Yamaha

Yamaha YE-01 – Kando at the MXoN

Yamaha announced a late decision (September 25, 2026) to display and conduct an exhibition run of its YE-01 Racing Concept at the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations 2026 (MXoN 2026) at Ernée, France, (2-4 October). 

Yamaha displayed and ran the electric prototype on the track alongside Honda's CR ELECTRIC PROTO during joint demonstration laps over the MXoN weekend.

On Yamaha's part, this initiative is aimed at eventual participation in MXEP, an electric motocross racing series scheduled to launch in the near future. Honda is no doubt also eying the MXEP as a competition platform for its electric off-roaders.

Jointly designed with French electric motorcycle manufacturer, Electric Motion SAS (EM), it has been developed under Yamaha's "Expanding the Possibilities of Riders and Machines" concept. Founded in 2009 by Philippe Arnuad and Philippe Arestan (near Nimes in southern France), the EM brand's motorcycles are said to be sold in some 40 markets worldwide with around 85% of production exported.

The core focus for EM is electric trials and off-road competition motorcycles, including competition-ready and leisure trials bikes like the Epure and Escape ranges. EM recently unveiled the EP01 enduro prototype to expand into the competitive electric enduro category.

Yamaha Motor Company secured a minority equity investment in Electric Motion SAS to collaborate on EV powertrain technology and sustainable off-road competition. The YE-01 Racing Concept blends Yamaha YZ450F chassis tech with EM electric power units and was first shown at EICMA 2025.

Through its Group Environmental Plan 2050, Yamaha is working toward achieving carbon neutrality throughout its entire supply chain, including the Company's business activities, by 2050.

"As the Kando creating company, Yamaha Motor will continue delivering greater excitement and enjoyment to customers through its products and services that harness the unique appeals of electric power. Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value."

MV Agusta

MV Agusta Restructures - Again

Some 18 years after announcing its ill-fated (and ill timed) acquisition by Harley-Davidson, Varese, Italy based manufacturer MV Agusta is facing financial uncertainty again.

Reports of fresh financial troubles had been circulating for at least a couple of months, and September saw the business finally issue a statement in an attempt to "provide some clarification."

The company states that following the separation from the KTM Group and the subsequent reacquisition of 100% of MV Agusta by the shareholder Art of Mobility (controlled by the Sardarov family - the pre-KTM owners), "the Company has been engaged for several months in a comprehensive process aimed at restoring MV Agusta's full operational, industrial, and financial balance.

The shareholder Art of Mobility says it has has initiated and assessed "a number of discussions regarding potential developments in MV Agusta's shareholding structure. 

"As part of this process, MV Agusta has also entered the Composizione Negoziata della Crisi (CNC), a framework provided for under Italian law to enable companies to address situations of temporary financial imbalance through a structured process assisted by independent professionals."

The procedure allows the Company to "assess its situation, engage with its various stakeholders and identify the most effective actions to support the rebalancing and relaunch of the business."

At its historical peak over the past 20 years (around 2015), MV Agusta was manufacturing and selling nearly 9,000 motorcycles per year globally. When Timur Sardarov took full control of the brand as CEO in 2019 (having bought out the Castiglioni family), he announced an ambitious five-year business plan targeting a production and sales volume of 25,000 units annually. However, at the point at which KTM took full control of MV Agusta it was selling some 4,000 units a year. 

In the first half of 2026, MV Agusta recorded 2,166 global retail registrations, an increase of 3.4% compared with 2,094 units during the same period in 2025.

Positive results were also achieved in France, with growth of 42.3, and in the United States, with an increase of 24.2%.

Harley paid around $108m to Claudio and Giovanni Castiglioni for ownership of MV Agusta in August 2008 - the month before the notorious 'Lehman Apocalypse'. They sold it back to the Castiglioni family in 2010 for one euro. The intervening years have included several financial crises for MV Agusta, despite having a good reputation for their motorcycles. The period also included a minority ownership position by the Mercedes Benz Group.

Leonart Motors

Leonart-x-Bultaco

Based on the Leonart Motors Rally 300 platform, the Barcelona off-road to cruiser to 125 cc specialist has given the Bultaco brand another chapter in its story.

The Bultaco Rally GT 300 is described as a "trail-focused motorcycle designed for those seeking an agile vehicle for everyday use without sacrificing the ability to explore beyond the asphalt."

It has been prepared in collaboration with the Bultaco Racing team - "which has actively participated in the development and fine-tuning of the model to guarantee dynamic performance in line with the brand's historical values."

This is no retro replica but an updated, contemporary reinterpretation of the brand with included 'creature comforts' such as an integrated 5" TFT screen and DashCam and full LED headlights with integrated front turn signals.

The engine is a 292 cc DOHC liquid-cooled CF300 single with Efi that delivers 28hp/18.5kW at 9,500 rpm with 25 Nm maximum torque, multi-disc in oil bath clutch, 6-speed gearbox, perimeter style chassis, inverted front forks, rear mono shock and front and rear disc brakes with ABS. It weighs in at 150 kg. It is presently being offered in Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, Slovenia and Malta.

www.leonartmotors.com

LeoVince

LeoVince LV-14 R range

The LeoVince LV-14 R range "represents a new evolution in LeoVince design, combining bold lines, advanced materials and meticulous craftsmanship to enhance the character of the latest generation of Supersport motorcycles, such as the Yamaha YZF-R9.

"Its aerodynamic shape and distinctive asymmetric cuts create an elegant and recognisable exhaust, designed to integrate seamlessly with the motorcycle's aggressive styling and enhance the riding experience."

Titanium

The range is available in three versions, allowing dealers to recommend the finish that best matches the style of their customer's motorcycle and personality. It features an AISI 304 stainless steel body with a matte finish - "selected to ensure strength and reliability."

The Black Edition has a matt black ceramic-based coating, "designed to give the exhaust an even bolder appearance."

The third option has a Grade 1 Titanium outer sleeve with a shot-blasted finish, "combining lightness and strength with a technical, contemporary aesthetic."

The headers for all three versions are also made of stainless steel, "ensuring strength, durability and reliable performance over time.

Black edition

"A defining feature of the entire range is the end cap with its distinctive asymmetric cut, made from 2x2 pre-preg carbon fibre and a special resin capable of withstanding high temperatures", a material that makes it possible to create a "lightweight, durable component finished with meticulous attention to detail." The matt coating protects the carbon fibre from UV rays while highlighting its distinctive weave.

To give the Yamaha YZF-R9 an even sportier and more aggressive appearance, LeoVince has also developed an optional, black-finished aluminum bracket, which allows the passenger footpeg to be removed and "completes the exhaust design with a clean and distinctive detail."

Stainless steel

The silencer incorporates high-temperature-resistant packing material, assembled around a direct-flow absorption core fitted with a dB-killer to "deliver the unmistakable LeoVince sound. Handcrafted TIG welds, performed by skilled technicians, ensure long-lasting strength and reliability, while the laser-etched LV logo - featured as the dedicated 'LV Titanium' logo on the Grade 1 titanium version - completes the design with an additional distinctive detail."

LEOVINCE

www.leovince.com

Kappa

Universal handlebar smartphone holder

Italian brand Kappa has expanded its accessory range with the addition of KPM1, a universal handlebar smartphone holder. It is "compact, sturdy, and intuitive solutions designed to boost comfort and convenience, whether for everyday rides or longer trips".

It allows the smartphone to be attached in just a few moments to handlebars with a diameter ranging from 22 to 32 mm. The installation is versatile and compatible with different types of two-wheeled vehicles. 

Compact and lightweight (weighing only 124 g), KPM1 features a body made of reinforced nylon with TPU side inserts that help dampen vibrations and impacts, improving the device’s stability and screen readability. 

The quick-release mounting system allows to attach or remove the smartphone in about one second, while the adjustable mount accommodates devices measuring 65 to 90 mm in width. It feature 360° rotation and a design engineered to leave the camera completely unobstructed.

KAPPA

www.kappamoto.com

RK Chain

Honda Africa Twin - RK's 525ZXW Chain

Spanish professional enduro and adventure rider "continues to push the boundaries of adventure riding with his Honda Africa Twin." Now featuring a refreshed new bike design, the gold-colored RK #525ZXW chain is his trusted choice for extreme journeys and demanding terrain.

RK's Overseas Sales Manager Daisuke Takagoshi told IDN: "The Honda Africa Twin has become the ideal platform for Kirian's exploration style, offering the right balance of performance, durability, and versatility that is needed for long-distance adventure riding. He pairs it with a curated selection of high-quality components that are designed for extreme use, and the RK ZXW Series chain was developed to meet the demanding requirements of modern superbikes and adventure motorcycles." 

Featuring RK's exclusive XW-Ring technology, the chain incorporates two lubrication pools and three contact lips to create an advanced triple-barrier sealing structure. This design significantly improves lubrication retention while reducing contamination from dust, mud, and other external elements.

Daisuke went on to say that "reliability is essential for adventure riders. A chain must deliver consistent performance through thousands of km of challenging terrain, changing weather conditions, and demanding riding situations. The RK 525ZXW chain provides exceptional durability, strength, and smooth power transmission, making it the perfect match for the Honda Africa Twin.

"With its distinctive gold finish, advanced engineering, and proven performance, the RK 525ZXW represents the connection between technology and adventure. As Kirian continues to explore new frontiers and inspire the next generation of riders, RK remains his dependable partner on every journey.

"Known for his creative approach to motorcycle adventures, Kirian is always searching for new challenges and unique experiences that go beyond traditional riding. From frozen landscapes in Nordic countries to vast desert environments surrounded by wildlife, he constantly explores places where few riders dare to go. His adventures are not only about covering distance but also about discovering new environments, testing motorcycle capability, and sharing inspiring stories with riders around the world."

www.rk-europe.com

Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield's 125th year commemorated with Redditch, England World Origin Plaque

Enfield, the global leader in the mid-size motorcycle segment (25 0cc–750 cc), has celebrated the brand's historic British roots in Redditch, England, with the installation of a 'World Origin Site' plaque, marking the legacy of Royal Enfield's first factory location in their 125th anniversary year.

The unveiling took place at the site of Royal Enfield's Hunt End Works, on what is now known as Enfield Road, with motoring journalist and TV personality Richard Hammond joining the Mayor of Redditch Mayor Royal Enfield staff, Riders Club members and surviving workers from the original Redditch manufacturing plant.

Founder of World Origin Site, Martin Wilkie said: "It's just a wall in Redditch today, but 125-years-ago, somebody did something that changed the world and we're here to mark the exact spot."

Royal Enfield motorcycles from five generations lined Enfield Road, highlighting the brand's title as the oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production, with a legacy spanning 125 years. From the modern 'Project Origin' replica of Royal Enfield's first motorcycle, launched in 1901, to a fully restored first edition 1932 Bullet, the iconic model that began Royal Enfield's journey to manufacturing in India and is still in production today.

The 2026 Royal Enfield Classic 650 125th Anniversary Edition, was also displayed to represent a lineage that began with the first Royal Enfield motorcycle in 1901, spanning multiple generations and continents. The limited-edition model, due on sale in Europe from August, is a meticulously crafted physical tribute to the brand's enduring legacy, and embossed with a 125 Year crest in gold on classic red.

Sprint Filter

Ducati chooses Sprint Filter P08 air filter across the entire Panigale V4 family

Sprint Filter and Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. have reached a strategic agreement to equip the entire Panigale V4 family with Sprint Filter's P08 high-performance air filter - including Original Equipment, original spare parts, Ducati Performance and the Ducati Corse catalogue.

Extending a technical collaboration that began in 2013 and establishing Sprint Filter as the air filtration supplier for Ducati's most exclusive production motorcycles, the deal covers the Panigale V4 and V4 S, the race-bred V4 R and limited-production models such as the Superleggera V4, Superleggera V4 Centenario plus future special editions based on the V4 platform. "Every motorcycle will leave Borgo Panigale fitted with the same Sprint Filter P08 element."

The agreement also extends to all official Ducati spare parts for the Panigale V4 range, the complete Ducati Performance aftermarket catalogue and Ducati Corse applications, allowing customers to benefit from the exact same air filter technology specified for original equipment. This achievement represents a significant milestone for the company based in Riga, Latvia.

The company stated that "this is the first time a manufacturer of high-performance air filters has been selected as the original equipment supplier across an entire flagship supersport motorcycle family, including production models, limited editions, performance accessories and factory racing applications. The announcement is the result of more than a decade of continuous collaboration."

Sprint Filter's relationship with Ducati began in 2013 with the 1199 Panigale R, followed in 2014 by the 1199 Superleggera. "Since then, Sprint Filter technology has accompanied the evolution of Ducati's most advanced superbikes through every generation, culminating today in its adoption across the complete Panigale V4 platform."

More than thirteen years of laboratory development, road validation, track testing and racing experience have enabled Ducati to verify the "outstanding performance, reliability and durability of Sprint Filter technology, leading to its selection as the standard air filtration system for the brand's flagship supersport motorcycles.

Fabrizio Marcucci, Marketing & Sales Director, Sprint Filter told IDN that "being selected by Ducati as the original equipment air filter supplier for the entire Panigale V4 family represents one of the most important milestones in Sprint Filter's history. 

"This achievement is the result of more than thirteen years of close collaboration, testing and continuous development. Every project, from the 1199 Panigale R to today's Panigale V4 range, has contributed to validating a technology that was originally developed for racing and is now trusted for the world's most advanced production superbikes."

At the heart of the P08 lies Sprint Filter's patented single-layer polyester filtering medium, an oil-free synthetic material engineered to deliver exceptionally high airflow while maintaining outstanding filtration efficiency.

"Compared with conventional paper filters, the P08 dramatically reduces pressure drop, allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently and helps preserve maximum power and torque throughout the rev range. 

"Unlike cotton or foam filters that require washing, drying and re-oiling, the Sprint Filter P08 is completely oil-free. Maintenance is remarkably simple: the filter can be cleaned using compressed air only, with no detergents, chemicals or maintenance kits required. Designed as a long-life component, the P08 is intended to last for the entire service life of the motorcycle".

Its reusable design also offers a significant environmental advantage. While conventional paper filters must be periodically replaced and discarded, Sprint Filter's reusable polyester element drastically reduces waste, consumption and minimizes the environmental impact associated with routine maintenance. 

www.sprintfilter.com

SIP Scootershop

SIP Performance - 177 cc Vespa Racing cylinder 

SIP Scootershop CEO Ralf Jodel describes their new aluminium SIP Performance 177cc racing cylinder as "the ideal all-rounder in the 177 cc cylinder segment." 

Designed and engineered specifically for the small engine block of the Vespa Largeframe models (PX/Sprint), it "combines well with any setup, is a pleasure to ride on tours or in everyday use and also leaves scope for further upgrades. It is technically up to date – all at excellent value for money."

Features include coated aluminium cylinder, bolt-on steel exhaust port and 8-bolt cylinder head with O-ring. "The aim of the development was to create a cylinder that you can't go wrong with. The focus was on good suitability for everyday use and touring.

"For a good every day and touring engine, high reliability is essential, but above all, a smooth and pleasant power delivery is required. That is why the SIP PERFORMANCE 177 does not just deliver in the lower or upper rev ranges but offers particularly good performance across a wide rev band."

The cylinder is supplied with fuel-air mixture via six transfer ports. The exhaust gases are discharged via a single exhaust port. This leads into a bolted-on steel exhaust manifold. The coated piston has a diameter of 63 mm and is fitted with two 1 mm-thick piston rings. The cylinder head is secured with eight bolts and fitted with an O-ring seal.

"Suitable for fitting to 2- and 3-channel engines, the cylinder is always fitted with a 4 mm-thick spacer between the cylinder and the engine casing. The kit includes two different spacers: one for fitting to a 3-channel casing, the other for a 2-channel casing. It also includes paper gaskets of varying thicknesses for both casing types, which can be used to adjust the height of the cylinder.

"The cylinder is generally compatible with Elestart. However, due to manufacturing tolerances, it may be necessary to lightly re-grind the cylinder in the area of the gear teeth."

Installation recommendations include NGK B9ES or BOSCH W3CC spark plug; ignition timing set to 19° before TDC, main jet at 110–118 and squeeze edge of 1.4 mm (squish band/quench area).

"This is a very good tuning cylinder with all-round performance and excellent value for money. Our tips for the best setup include using the SIP Performance ignition system and the SIP Road 2.0 exhaust as the ideal complements to a good everyday engine. Brescia, Italy manufactured Primatist crankshafts provide the right foundation for an indestructible engine and SIP clutches offer the versatility to find the right settings for reliable power transmission."

SIP SCOOTERSHOP

www.sip-scootershop.com

Puig

Puig - BMW R 1300 GS equipped for Off-Road adventures

Barcelona based Puig (of Hi Tech Parts/Motoplastic fame) likes a challenge, and it especially likes to challenge its own designers and production engineers by exposing their products to the same (or even harsher) riding conditions that their dealers' customers expose them to.

"When you're out in the wild reliability is everything," says Export Sales Manager Carles Puig. "We left our headquarters to put Puig's off-road riding parts to the test in those real-world conditions.

"The BMW R 1300 GS is built to take adventure beyond the asphalt. To prove it, we headed to the Monegros Desert in Spain (with professional rider Joan Munar) where we tested the range of off-road accessories that we have specifically developed for this model.

"For this occasion, the motorcycle was equipped with a comprehensive selection of Puig accessories designed to enhance protection, ergonomics, and functionality on off-road routes."

The selected off-road range for BMW's adventure bike included an oil-carter guard, crash bars, rear mudguard, protectors, off-road footpegs, Sport windscreen, and other accessories developed to meet the needs of riders looking to expand their motorcycle's capabilities.

"This test day allowed us to showcase the performance of the complete setup in the unique surroundings of the wilderness while capturing the adventurous spirit of the motorcycle equipped with Puig accessories."

Every component Puig accessory for the BMW R 1300 GS has been designed to enhance the protection, ergonomics, and functionality needed to tackle extreme adventures, both on and off the road. "The mission is greater impact protection, improved safety and control during off-road riding, and increased comfort on long adventure journeys."

PUIG/MOTOPLASTIC S.A.

www.puig.tv

BS Battery

GR26-620 - new AGM battery for demanding UTV/SSV applications

Engineered to deliver reliable starting power and long-lasting, consistent performance for UTV and SSV vehicle applications, BS Battery's new GR26-620 is a premium model from its SLA MAX (Sealed Lead Acid) range.

Offering an impressive 620 Cranking Amps (CA) and 570 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), making it the "ideal solution for larger displacement engines requiring maximum cranking performance in demanding conditions. It is built to withstand extreme external conditions while providing reliable performance every time." Factory activated and ready to install, this battery features advanced AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology, providing a completely sealed, spill-proof and maintenance-free design. 

With a capacity of 15% higher than conventional flooded batteries, "it delivers superior energy reserves and longer-lasting performance.

"The reinforced battery case provides extreme vibration resistance, while the 90° mounting angle offers greater installation flexibility across a wide range of UTV and SSV applications.

"Built to withstand rough terrain, mud and extreme weather, this model is the ideal replacement battery for a wide range of models, including those manufactured by Polaris. For optimum charging and maximum battery life, the GR26-620 is the perfect match for BS30, BS30 MAX and BS60 smart battery chargers and maintainers."

BS BATTERY

www.bs-battery.com

Bergamaschi

Bergamaschi chooses Soft Way for international ARCO Service launch

Described as a "revolutionary new international project for independent repair shops, dealerships and distributors", Milan based spare parts, component and accessory distributor Bergamaschi has selected Soft Way - a specialised two-wheeler software house owned by Editoriale Domus - to develop and distribute an innovative and potentially important web product across Europe. 

ARCO Service has been designed specifically for the independent motorcycle repair sector, a segment that, lacking major OEM backup and resources, is a valuable but often overlooked and ill served source of sales and profits for the international motorcycle industry's service and workshop sector.

Domenico Mainoli, General Manager of Bergamaschi (right) with Francesco Pasquali, CEO of Soft Way

The Soft Way-designed product, for which Bergamaschi is the Master Distributor in Europe, has already made its debut within Bergamaschi's affiliated Italian workshop network, operating under the Ride Up brand. Ride Up currently encompasses around 150 independent repairers across Italy - a number projected to double by 2028. 

A well-established and internationally recognised motorcycle industry software specialist, Bergamaschi has built on its already successful domestic Italian market collaboration with Soft Way. The newly developed international version of the Soft Way ARCO platform will reach national workshop networks in key European markets through local spare parts distributors, aiming to establish a continent-wide motorcycle repair network. 

When asked what exactly Arco Service is, and why it has "all the hallmarks of a gamechanger for motorcycle repair" in Europe, Bergamaschi General Manager Domenico Mainoli told International Dealer News that "Arco Service is a fully web-based DMS [Dealer Management System] specifically tailored for motorcycle repair operators. It enables users to order from over 800,000 part numbers directly and seamlessly from the management system while integrating Autodata information. This minimises service times, eliminates margins of error, and provides instant access to labour times and fluid specifications.

"The product is scalable, regardless of the distributor's host country, can be integrated with third-party databases, is infinitely replicable internationally due to its cloud-based architecture, and naturally multilingual. 

"It is an exceptionally powerful tool with a global reach that will allow operators across the supply chain - from distributors to workshops - to identify vehicles and spare parts using unified terminology throughout Europe."

Bergamaschi General Manager Domenico Mainoli Francesco Pasquali, CEO of Soft Way describes this new international version of ARCO service as "a one-of-a-kind software product that not only represents the world's first DMS that has an integrated database, but also because it combines a vertical tool - a spare parts database with the horizontal target of territorial distribution. 

"By its very nature, it is capable of forging an international network of distributors and repairers. For the first time in the two-wheeler sector, a single software solution seamlessly connects data with networks and we are already seeing strong interest across European markets".

The initial targets for the project are Spain, Germany, France, UK and Portugal, with Spain first, where preliminary research among local spare parts distributors has already generated strong interest. However, Bergamaschi and Soft Way say they expect to be active with ARCO Service in Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Portugal in time for the system to be active in independent distributors, dealerships, service workshops and repair centres in time for the 2027 riding season.

"The objective is twofold," says Francesco. "To build a continental network of distributors (for both spare parts and the Arco Service application) and to progressively expand the database itself. As this wealth of information grows, it can be made available to numerous public and private mobility stakeholders in each participating country, such as insurance companies and rental providers.

ARCO Service represents Incremental business for European distributors – according to Francesco "distributors will be able to generate new revenue streams by monetising data through an add-on service that streamlines processes and leverages modern technology. 

"Arco Service is not only a powerful driver for modernising parts distribution - allowing workshops to place orders directly through the system - but it also opens up new revenue opportunities by optimising order channels and offering margins on reselling the software to repair networks. Ultimately, it represents both a major technological leap forward and a lucrative commercial opportunity."

www.bergamaschi.com

Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC)

Half year USA on-highway motorcycle sales +4.6%

The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC – Irvine, California) is reporting that among leading brands monitored, sales of new motorcycles and scooters in the United States increased +1.9% through the first half of 2026 to 273,992 units YTD, compared to 268,822 for the year-ago. 

ATV sales decreased -0.9% among leading brands. Motorcycles and scooters accounted for 76.7% of total new-unit sales through Q2, and ATVs represented 23.3%.  

In the On-Highway segment, retail sales are reported at +4.6% (163,082 units, up from 155,919 in the first six months of 2025). Off-Highway motorcycle sales are the second largest PTW (powered two-wheeler) segment in USA with H1 retail sales reported at 66,541 units, down by -3.3% from the year-ago. ADV (Adventure, aka Dual-Sport) unit sales were up by +2.7% at 39,276 units (from 38,251 units in H1 2025).

The small U.S. Scooter market was down by -12.7% at 5,093 units (from 5,387). ATV sales were marginally down by -0.9% at 83,214 units (from 83,984) to give an overall Powersports Industry new retail unit sales read of 357,2026 units (+1.2%) for the YTD, from 352,806 for H1, 2025.

www.MIC.org

Japanese made motorcycle exports

Japanese made motorcycle exports to Europe –17.18% YTD

The latest available data from JAMA (the automotive trade association in Japan, which includes representation of motorcycle manufacturers among its membership) show Japanese made 250 cc+ motorcycle exports to Europe down by -17.18% for the year to June at 102,354 units. 

January was down by -5.95% (19,596 units) with February down by -20.69% (19,991 units); March was down by 5.95% again (24,657 units), with April down by -13.97% (19,034 units). May was down badly at -38.58% (just 9,072 units) with June almost as bad again at -30.67% (10,004 units).

Japanese made motorcycle exports to USA were down low single digits at .-5.14% (47,279 units) with worldwide motorcycle exports from Japan’s ‘Big Four’ home factories down by -12.08% (195,531 units).

In total PTW terms (all units/displacements) exports to Europe were -14.67% (109,614 units); +10.54% to USA (66,591 units) and -5.99% globally (238,214 units). 

For the record: Japanese made motorcycle exports to Europe were +7.57% in 2025 (235,603 units), +5.87% to USA (100,706 units) and +9.45% globally (433,092 units). Total global PTW exports from the ‘Big Four’ Japanese factories were +7.62% (519,816 units).

Vertex Pistons

Vertex GP Racer's Choice

The Vertex GP Racer's Choice piston range for 4-stroke off-road motorcycles "continues to play a leading role in this season of the Motocross World Championship.

"Collaboration with numerous factory teams remains a key element in the ongoing development of Vertex GP Racer's Choice pistons, driving the creation of increasingly advanced technical solutions and contributing to racing results that reflect the true performance nature of Vertex products."

The piston range is completed by the Replica versions, used as a high-quality replacement for the original piston, and the High Compression HC versions, designed for riders seeking increased responsiveness compared to standard performance levels.

VERTEX PISTONS/VP ITALY

www.vertexpistons.com

LeoVince

LV-14 Titanium forged carbon edition

The LeoVince LV-14 Titanium Forged Carbon Edition "marks a new evolution in the LV-14 design, combining bold lines, advanced materials and meticulous craftsmanship to enhance the character of the latest generation of motorcycles. 

"It has been specifically developed for the BMW R 1300 GS, BMW R 1300 GS Adventure, BMW R 1300 R and BMW R 1300 RS and, like the other LV-14 exhaust systems available for these models, it is fully road legal."

The Grade 1 titanium outer sleeve features a refined shot-blasted finish, combining lightweight construction with "outstanding strength while giving the exhaust a technical, elegant and contemporary appearance".

The new forged carbon fibre end cap is the first LeoVince component made from this advanced material. Its distinctive structure allows complex shapes to be created while combining lightness, strength and exceptional attention to detail. 

"The irregular pattern makes every component visually unique, giving the exhaust an even more modern, distinctive and sophisticated character."

The silencer incorporates high-temperature-resistant sound-absorbing materials, assembled by hand to deliver "the unmistakable LeoVince sound. Hand-finished TIG welds, performed by skilled technicians, ensure strength and reliability, while the laser-etched 'LV Titanium' logo completes the design with a clean yet distinctive detail."

LEOVINCE

www.leovince.com

Touratech

Touratech Suspension upgrade for BMW R 12 G/S

Launched in 2024 to fill one of the gaps left by the R nineT, Motorcycle News (MCN in the UK) named the iconic 1980s R80 G/S inspired 2025 BMW R 12 G/S as its Best Retro Bike of 2025.

Touratech's suspension upgrades for the R 12 G/S are described as having "sensitive characteristics" thanks to progressive replacement springs, maximum performance with the Explore shock absorber and more stable riding (even under extreme conditions) thanks to the CSC steering damper.

"Touratech Suspension parts effectively optimise the chassis of the new BMW R 12 G/S. The replacement springs for the fork and shock absorber offer particularly sensitive characteristics combined with high reserves in extreme conditions. This is made possible by the progressive curve of the springs, which is advantageous in both road and off-road use. 

"The progressive springs are available both as a set for front and rear suspension and also separately for optimising the fork. In addition to the standard length, the springs are also available in a shorter version for lowering the seat height by 25 mm.

"For dealers who want to go one step further in upgrading the performance of their customer's R 12 G/S chassis, Touratech Suspension offers a specially tailored rear shock absorber from the Explore series. 

"The specific Touratech setup is designed for heavy-duty use, such as when traveling with luggage. Individual adjustment options are available for the rebound and compression damping; the latter can be adjusted particularly finely in the high and low speed ranges. The spring preload is adjusted mechanically. The external reservoir provides a large oil volume, which always maintains the optimum temperature even under high loads.

"Like all Touratech Suspension products, the Explore shock absorber for the BMW R 12 G/S is fully serviceable, guaranteeing a long lifetime.

"In contrast to the standard product, the Touratech Suspension CSC steering damper for the BMW R12 G/S offers extensive adjustment options. With 24 clicks, the damping performance can be adapted in small steps to the intended use - from sporty country road riding to off-road riding with a heavy load. 

"The steering damper makes the handling of the R12 G/S noticeably steadier, even in critical situations. This means that even long stages on off-road terrain can be tackled in a relaxed and fatigue-free manner.

"Additional shock absorber variants for the BMW R 12 G/S will soon be added to the Touratech Suspension product range."

TOURATECH

www.touratech.com