RK Chain

RK 520XRE - Desert domination in Dakar Rally2 Class

Back in January, RK Chain supported team, BAS World KTM Racing Team's rider Toni Mulec conquered the 2026 Dakar Rally, Rally 2 Champion title.

Within the motorcycle categories of the Dakar Rally, the Rally2 class is where privateers and rising talents take on the world's toughest race without full factory support.

Rally2 is designed primarily for non-elite riders. While they race similar 450c c rally machines as the top-tier RallyGP competitors, regulations limit certain modifications and assistance. This keeps costs lower and competition tighter, putting more emphasis on rider skills and mechanical management.

Most Rally2 riders compete on production-based rally bikes from manufacturers like KTM, Honda, and Husqvarna Motorcycles. The machines still feature long-range fuel tanks, rally suspension, and full navigation towers - but without the extensive factory development programs of RallyGP teams.

"In the deserts of Saudi Arabia, Rally2 becomes a true test of independence. Riders must manage tires, protect their engines, and often perform much of their own maintenance after exhausting stages," said RK Chain's Export Sales Manager Daisuke Takagoshi.

Photos by @basworldktmracingteam 

"For many competitors, Rally2 is a gateway to professional rally raid racing. Winning here doesn't just mean finishing fast - it means mastering endurance, navigation, and mechanical discipline on motorsport's biggest stage".

Equipped with RK's advanced XW Ring technology and the lightweight, high-performance 520XRE chain, "Toni powered through one of the harshest rally races in the world to secure this incredible victory."

Developed using "cutting-edge technology derived from international on-road and off-road racing, the RK 520XRE delivers outstanding racing performance, combining high durability and lightweight construction, providing quick and smooth acceleration response and excellent manoeuvrability.

"The RK 520XRE XW-Ring technology features two lubrication pools and three contact lips, a triple barrier structure to further seal the lubrication and prevent debris to enter the chain. The durability of 520XRE has been dramatically improved from the previous model."

RK JAPAN

www.rk-europe.com

News Briefs

Verge Motorcycles (Finland) has reached a major milestone in electric vehicle development, becoming the first manufacturer to introduce solid-state battery technology in production motorcycles that are available to customers. Delivering significantly faster charging and extended range compared to conventional lithium-ion systems, they enable up to 370 miles of range and can add roughly 186 miles of range in about 10 minutes of charging on its Verge Labs 'Donut Motor' equipped TS Pro.

In the U.S., the 13-store strong premium European brand motorcycle dealer group Moto America has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. With outlets in states including California, Florida, and Oregon, carrying brands such as BMW Motorrad, Triumph, Ducati, Royal Enfield, and Vespa the SLC, Utah based group has cited rising interest rates and inventory floorplan costs, higher price-points and slower inventory turns as among the challenges following the loss of a $3m deposit tied to a planned $15m credit facility that failed to close. 

British crash protection specialist (and BSB Sponsor) R&G has reached a noteworthy milestone as it launched its 600th Crash Protector Kit since being founded in 1999. The new kit was for the 2025 Honda CBR650R (e-clutch version). The company's very first application was for the legendary Suzuki GSX-R750.

Germany - Touratech's 2025 Travel Event attracted some 15,000 visitors to the Touratech headquarters in Niedereschach (Baden-Württemberg) . The 2026 event is slated for 5-7 June. www.touratech.de

Italy - Michele Colaninno, Piaggio CEO described 2025 as "undoubtedly a complex year globally" when releasing its FY 2025 results in March 2026 (the year to December 31, 2025). He said the year saw "significant exogenous macroeconomic factors, such as new trade tariffs, rising raw material costs, and the performance of international currencies, all of which showed marked volatility." Consolidated net revenues of € 1,501.9m were -11.7% compared to € 1,701.3m in 2024. Geographically, there was an overall decline, primarily reflecting the contraction of the European and US markets and the contraction of the premium market in APAC. Exchanged rate variances worsened the apparent comparatives, with EMEA and the Americas recording a -10.5% decline, Asia Pacific -14%, and India -14%. In 2025, the Piaggio Group reported a net profit of € 34m, down 49.4% from € 67.2m at 31 December 2024. As of 31 December 2025, the Piaggio Group had sold a total of 445,200 vehicles worldwide (481,600 vehicles in 2024, -7.6%). In PTW terms the Group sold 329,000 two-wheeled vehicles worldwide, for a net turnover of € 1,155.4m (359,900 two-wheeled vehicles sold in 2024, for a turnover of € 1,298.3m). In Europe, the Piaggio Group achieved an overall share of 10.2%, positioning itself among the top market leaders in the scooter segment with a share of 17.5%. The Piaggio Liberty and Medley are said to have done well (high wheel models). In the motorcycle sector, in 2025 Aprilia saw growing volumes and revenues and was the leading European brand in sales of faired sport motorcycles in Europe, with a segment share of 13%. "The RS 660 was among the best-selling sport bikes in Europe and the best-selling in Italy. The RS 457 also recorded excellent sales volumes". At Moto Guzzi, growth was seen in sales of the V100 Mandello.

Italian parts manufacturer CNC Racing has recognised the contribution of Giacomo Agostini with the launch of an exclusive 'AGO' collection of accessories for MV Agusta

Japanese made motorcycle exports

Japanese made motorcycle exports to Europe -14.02% YTD

The latest available data from JAMA (the automotive trade association in Japan, which includes representation of motorcycle manufacturers among its membership) shows Japanese made 250 cc+ motorcycle exports down by -14.02% for the year-to-date at 39,587 units. January was down by -5.95% (19,596 units) with February down by -20.69% (19,991 units).

Conversely, Japanese made motorcycle exports to USA were +15.11% YTD (17,859 units) with worldwide motorcycle exports from Japan’s ‘Big Four’ home factories essentially flat at +0.31% (74,892 units).

In total PTW terms (all units/displacements) exports to Europe were -11.97% (41,332 units); +23.92% to USA (22,876 units) and worldwide +4.17% (86,907 units). 

For the record: Japanese made motorcycle exports to Europe were +7.57% in 2025 (235,603 units).

Koso Europe

Koso Gen-2 RX4 for MT-09

Available for a wide range of top-selling brands and models, Germany based digital instrumentation specialist Koso Europe has added to its range of TFT Gen-2 RX4 speedometers with a version that includes a plug-and-play harness for select Yamaha MT-09 models.

The Bluetooth connection allows phone connection so riders can see incoming calls, music information display and much more. In this era of 'creature comforts' that enhance the riding experience, the user-friendly, large digital display gives the RX4H a modern look and readable design – even at high speeds.

The basic functions and displays of the RX4 include speedometer, tachometer, clock, phone battery status, Bluetooth connection, fuel meter, gear indicator, trip meter, current and average fuel consumption, voltmeter, driving time and driving mode.

In addition, the RX4's (warning) lights display ABS lamp, engine lamp, engine oil lamp, QS quick shift signal, TCS tracking control signal, neutral lamp, refrigerant temperature warning lamp, RPM shift light, IMMO anti-theft lamp, low fuel warning, high beam, and right and left turn signals.

Koso's European Sales Manager Ralf Mansfeld says: "with added features uich as adjustable light intensity and colour schemes, the RX4 is the ideal plug and play multifunctional device for riders of the MT-09 and other popular Yamaha models."

KOSO EUROPE

www.kosoeurope.com

WRP

HZR WRP chains

Made in Italy, WRP's HZR Chain "are the best available choice for the most demanding applications. Made in close partnership with the top Italian manufacturer this chain that is engineered to help riders achieve new goals and challenges."

The new, high-performance, "outstanding HZR WRP chains take a big step forward with the patented Z seal rings. These new generation seal rings, which feature a special-designed conical shape on their inner side, are the result of the evolution of previous X-ring and Z-ring designs.

"Uniquely, the Z-ring flexes when assembled, creating a spring effect that guarantees the seal will not diminish over time, providing enhanced chain flexibility. The lubricant trapped between the plates and the lobes of the Z-ring keeps the ring lubricated and increases its life.

"Among other characteristics, the HZR chains feature high alloy steel plates and pins, solid bushings and rollers, shot-peening of plates, pins and rollers, performance-enhancing pre-stretching and 'gold' outer plates."

The WRP chains range is now covering all the main applications for street and off-road motorcycles with 428, 520, 525 and 530 chain pitches.

WIND TRADING SRL

www.wrpracing.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

Oxford Products

Comfort and Protection the Oxford way

British specialist Oxford Products has 'hit the ground running' in 2026 with a wide range of product additions and updates to its accessories and gear and apparel programs. 

In a 'Back to The Future' moment, Oxford has responded to distributor and dealer requests by producing new print catalogues for 2026. New products included for the first time include an ATMOS range of Base and Outer Layers which has "simplicity" and "ergonomics" as core strengths.

"By dramatically cutting windchill their ATMOS EXO Windproof Jacket keeps more of the body heat where it belongs, while still allowing excess body heat to escape through the lightweight woven fabric".

That two-way rider benefit of the slim, rider-friendly fit is enhanced by four-way mechanical stretch, giving freedom of movement while thoughtful details like a dropped rear hem and targeted cuff and hem elastic locks out the wind.

Key features include ultra lightweight, 30D polyester construction; TPU backed windproof fabric under placket; 4-way mechanical stretch; densely woven to block wind chill, yet allows sweat vapour to pass through; perfect for layering under a motorcycle jacket it is packable into a chest pocket and has zippered hand warmer pockets, a mid-height, low bulk collar, dipped hem for extended back coverage and overlocked internal seams to enhance comfort and garment durability.

"Designed to complement protective outer shells, the EXO's low profile minimises interference with your gear. Packability is another standout feature: the jacket folds neatly into its chest pocket, making it perfect for changing conditions. For extreme temperatures, the Exo can be paired with the ATMOS HEATCORE Base Layer."

The full ATMOS Layers collection breaks down into Core base layers Thermo mid layers and the EXO 'shell' / windproof layers.

ATMOS core base layer top

"Atmos is a full motorcycle layering system designed to enhance comfort through sweat management, intelligent insulation solutions and windproofing technology.

"Where most layering systems attempt to be functional across many different sports and applications, Atmos is specifically designed for motorcycle use – addressing the key areas where others fail.

"Atmos layers are designed to work in conjunction with each other, so you can pair styles as your trip demands."

ATMOS EXO key features

• Ultra lightweight, 30D polyester construction

• TPU backed windproof fabric

• Four-way mechanical stretch

• Densely woven to block wind chill and still let sweat vapour to pass through

• Perfect for layering under a motorcycle jacket

• Packable into chest pocket

• Zippered hand warmer pockets

• Mid-height, low bulk collar

• Dipped hem for extended back coverage

• Semi-elasticated hem and cuffs lock out windchill

• Overlocked internal seams enhance comfort and garment durability

• Brushed collar lining and chin guard

• Windproof under placket

Also seen here is the first in a new generation of performance denim Original Approved jeans powered by Armourlite Mono single layer denim with Dynamic 2.0 knee and hip protectors and Oxford's 'True-Fit' knee protector system.

"OA DNA (Original Approved DNA) is the defining signature of Oxford's Original Approved jeans. It is not a trend, or a finish, or a styling detail. It is a comprehensive built-in system of performance-driven features engineered into every Original Approved garment from the ground up. One that has been shaped by the real-world feedback of riders who wear our gear every day.

"This DNA is exclusive. If a product carries the Original Approved name, then it carries that DNA. That is the rider's assurance that it is 'Genuine Original Approved' by Oxford.

OA straight jeans in mid blue

The advanced Armourlite mono single layer denim is engineered by weaving soft cotton with high-tenacity polyamide yarn, creating a lightweight, breathable, and exceptionally strong garment. Built-in stretch ensures all-day comfort - on the bike or off it.

"Our slim, lightweight 'Dynamic 2.0' knee and hip protectors utilise an ultra-flexible form for a contoured fit around the knees and hips. Constructed from a multi-impact compliant PU-foam and boasting a CE Level 2 rating.

"The 'True-fit' knee protector system's internal removable protector pouch (with hook and loop attachment points) can be positioned up and down and side to side before secure fastening. This ensures full, uncompromised adjustability and perfect protector placement for any wearer."

Invisible details include PFAS-free water repellent coating, Moto-Gusset crotch panel and reflective strips on turn-ups. 

Oxford says that its ongoing Oxford Sustainability Initiative has seen a significant amount of research and development has gone into reducing our denim range's environmental impact. A sustainable wash and laser finishing process avoids the use of extra chemicals, fully removes the need for potassium permanganate and eliminates several washing and rinsing cycles.

"This technique not only significantly reduces water consumption compared to the industry standard but also eradicates the need for stones and heavy chemicals."

OXFORD PRODUCTS

www.oxfordproducts.com