Ducati

Ducati debuts solid-state cells 

By Ben Purvis

Solid-state battery technology has widely been touted as a game-changer for the future of electric vehicles - offering improved safety, faster charging, improved energy-density and reduced weight compared to existing lithium-ion chemistries - and Ducati's V21L MotoE bike has become a rolling testbed for the technology as it's developed by the company's parent, the VW Group.

The prototype V21L with solid-state cells was unveiled at the IAA Mobility show in Munich in September as the first vehicle to be fitted with VW's solid-state tech, developed by its subsidiary PowerCo and made in cooperation with battery maker QuantumScape.

VW is just one of many brands working on solid-state battery tech, something Honda is also hard at work on, with the aim having solid-state batteries in production vehicles, including electric motorcycles, by 2030. The tech improves on existing lithium-ion batteries by replacing the liquid electrolyte - which is flammable in current designs, and becomes a limiting factor on performance as it must be kept within a limited temperature range - with a solid alternative. Since the new electrolyte is solid it also anchors the anode and cathode in the battery, allowing it to be more compact, and in the event of a crash or battery damage the electrolyte can't spill and there's less chance of an internal short-circuit. The solid is non-flammable even if there is a short, so shouldn't contribute to a fire.

Most importantly from a user's perspective, as well as being smaller and lighter, the batteries can be charged faster because the solid electrolyte can cope with higher temperatures. In the prototype V21L, the solid-state cells can be charged from 10% to 80% in only 12 minutes. Not quite as quick as filling a fuel tank, but getting much closer.

The Ducati prototype uses 980 of the prototype cells, with a lithium metal anode and a ceramic separator, which are intended to be in mass production by the end of this decade. 

Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali said: "At Ducati, we have a long history of pushing the boundaries of technology to improve the riding experience both on the road and on the racetrack. Our pursuit of innovation has allowed us to achieve incredible results, including the record of six consecutive MotoGP Constructors' titles. The high energy density achieved with solid state technology is a perfect fit for a high-performance vehicle like a sport motorcycle." 

VW Group Board Member for Technology Thomas Schmall explained: "The solid-state battery has the potential to become a game changer in e-mobility. Together with our partner QuantumScape, we aim to industrialise the technology and to take the next step towards series production. With PowerCo's Unified Cell, we have created the perfect match: it is 'solid state-ready' and enables rapid technology transfer to the Group's vehicles as soon as the solid-state battery is ready. The Group's battery strategy is pioneering and at the same time offers unprecedented economies of scale."

QuantumScape CEO Siva Sivaram said: "Today, QuantumScape solid-state batteries moved closer to commercial reality. For more than a decade, we've worked closely with the Volkswagen Group to advance our breakthrough technology that delivers the range, fast charging, and safety that EV drivers want. Our focus now is on bringing this technology to market and redefining what high-performance electric mobility can be."

News Briefs

A vintage 1971 Triumph TR6C motorcycle, ridden by an original Triumph T-shirt wearing Jeremy Allen White (who portrays Bruce Springsteen) is featured prominently in the "Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere" movie that was released recently. Released by 20th Century Studios, the film chronicles the making of Bruce Springsteen's 1982 "Nebraska" album.

Suzuki GB has announced the launch of a new, industry-leading, Up-To-10-Year Warranty scheme for UK buyers - replacing the previous Up-To-Seven-Year Warranty. Following the expiration of the standard three-year warranty, owners of Suzuki models up to a decade old - or 70,000 miles can benefit from the cover, simply by ensuring their bike is serviced annually in line with the manufacturer service schedule at an authorised Suzuki dealership. Buyers of used models can also benefit from the warranty, even if their Suzuki has a gap in its service history. Following a health check and service at their nearest dealership, Suzuki GB will restart the bike's warranty cover.

Thailand has been confirmed on the MotoGP calendar until 2031 inclusive, returning to Buriram for five more Grands Prix from 2027 to 2031. "As MotoGP enjoys its trajectory of growth, Southeast Asia continues to prove its importance as both an established fanbase and one with scope for further expansion. The Thai Grand Prix has been an important presence within the market since its debut on the calendar in 2018 and will continue to play an important role as MotoGP continues to grow."

The Piaggio Group has boosted its presence in the Asia Pacific region with the establishment of a new direct sales subsidiary in the Philippines. With a market of 2.3 million scooters and motorcycles sold annually, the Philippines is the third-largest market in Southeast Asia (after Vietnam and Indonesia), and fifth largest worldwide (after India and China), with the strongest growth in the premium segment. Philippine per capita income has risen by 40% in the last ten years, with growing customer interest in the premium segments. The new subsidiary will import Group scooters (Vespa, Piaggio and Aprilia), Aprilia and Moto Guzzi motorcycles, and spares and accessories.

Fifth Avenue, Manhattan based Fuell Inc., the electric motorcycle venture based with Erik Buell on the leadership board, well and truly ran out of gas and smashed against the realities of the EV start-up segment. Having filed for bankruptcy a year ago, when its assets were finally auctioned off in August they sold for $170,000 - covering just 2% of the company's $7m of total debts. 

Following successful expansions in Italy and Spain, Hero MotoCorp has partnered with established UK importer MotoGB Ltd. to bring its "premium motorcycles" to the British market. The world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, MotoGB will import Hero's Euro 5+ range, led by the new Hunk 440. This marks the company's 51st international market, strengthening its footprint across Europe. Hero claims a customer base of more than 125 million worldwide.

Brand goodwill, reputation and profile is a capital asset of almost unlimited value that is foundational to all sales targets - it is difficult, time consuming and expensive to build, in cash terms it can be lost cheaply, quickly and easily, but at even greater long-term real cost - Yeldarb Nibor, 2008.

Government debt across the world is on course to hit 100% of global gross domestic product (GDP) by 2029, according to analysis by the International Monetary Fund, the highest level since the aftermath of the second world war.

Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news, RideApart.com, Motor1.com, Cycle World, motorbikewriter.com

OXA Factory

Parts Europe Announces Distribution of OXA Factory Products

Germany based Parts Europe is now the official distributor of OXA Factory products across its full dealer network in Europe and beyond.

"This collaboration will ensure that dealers and customers in these regions gain access to OXA Factory's product range, backed by Parts Europe's unmatched logistics, customer service, and support.

"Designed with precision and crafted from high-quality materials, they deliver increased torque for stronger acceleration and improved pulling power. At high revs, its optimised internal structure ensures exceptionally smooth power delivery, giving you consistent, controllable performance when you need it most."

OXA Factory Front Pipes are "designed to enjoy the engine's full potential. Their precision-engineered construction delivers greater power, giving you stronger acceleration and improved performance across the rev range.

"By optimising exhaust flow, these front pipes enhance efficiency, ensuring your ride feels smoother, more responsive, and more enjoyable. The result is a perfect balance between performance and comfort."

www.parts-europe.com

Norton

Norton unveils all-new range led by Manx R superbike 

By Ben Purvis

It's more than five years since Norton's previous iteration collapsed into ignominious bankruptcy before its key assets were bought by India's TVS, who immediately reorganised into a new business carrying the famous name. Since then, more than £200m has been ploughed into a new factory in Birmingham, England - not far from Norton's original home - and now a newly developed range made its debut at EICMA.

The all-new Norton range is led by the V4 1,200 cc Manx R

Four bikes were unveiled at the show: a pair of V4-powered, 1,200 cc machines under the 'Manx' banner and two 585 cc parallel twins carrying the 'Atlas' name. They're set to be joined by two further models in the near future to complete a planned six-model lineup.

The Manx R, a V4 superbike based around the engine developed for the "Garner-era" V4SS back in 2016, and heavily redesigned to power the V4SV and V4CR since the TVS takeover, is the first to reach production. The engine has been revamped once again, taking power up from 185 hp to 206hp, and more importantly bringing into line with Euro5+ homologation standards and other international emissions rules, allowing the bike to be offered internationally - with target markets in Europe, India and the USA.

The engine's tune focusses on usable performance across a wide rev range rather than outright power, with the peak arriving at a relatively low-for-the-class 11,500 rpm, and more outright torque than its competitors, hitting 130 Nm at 9,000 rpm. All that torque is controlled via a suite of rider assists including cornering traction control, wheelie control, slide control, launch control, multiple engine modes and a quickshifter. 

"Five years of TVS ownership and investment reflected in 2026 lineup"

A new, cast alloy chassis replaces the TIG-welded tubular aluminium design of the earlier V4 superbike models, and is paired to Marzocchi electronically controlled, semi-active suspension that's connected to the bike's IMU, throttle and brakes to modify settings as you ride. It's that suspension that Norton says eliminates the need for the winglets that have sprouted on all its key rivals' bodywork. 

BST carbon fibre wheels, Brembo Hypure brakes and an 8-inch touchscreen dash (the touch function works only when stationary, for safety) are other key elements that give the bike a high-end look and feel, along with aluminium switch blocks on the bars, and a level of technology that includes not only phone connectivity but smartwatch connectivity to send notifications from the bike to your wrist.

The Manx R shares its 206 hp powertrain, chassis and technology with the naked Manx roadster, but Norton has revealed less about the two Atlas models that will follow. 

The Atlas adventure bike and the more street biased Atlas GT, which swaps dual-purpose wire wheels for 17-inch alloys, both use a new 585 cc parallel twin, but few specifications have been revealed. The engine appears to be related to the 420 cc twin that's been launched for 2026 in the BMW F450GS, which makes sense as the BMW is also built by TVS, which is expected to adopt the engine in its own models in the future, just as it did with the 313 cc single-cylinder engine from the BMW G310 range that's built on behalf of BMW by TVS in India.

Norton says the Atlas models have a 270-degree crankshaft, though - unlike the unusual 135-degree design used by BMW's F450 motor - and that like the Manx models the Atlas will feature a six-axis IMU with cornering traction control and ABS, slide control, launch control and cornering cruise control.

Oxford Products

Oxford Products - Tracker 3.0 and Helix 

Tracker 3.0 waterproof touring boot

British product brand designer and distributor Oxford Products' new unisex Tracker 3.0 waterproof touring boot offers high levels of protection "and exceptional on and off bike comfort".

Combining highly durable microfibre, a Dry2Dry waterproof and breathable membrane with flexible accordion stretch zones, make this "Oxford's most versatile boot to date".

The accordion stretch zones at the front and rear enhances the boot's flexibility, reducing fatigue without affecting protective performance. A 3D mesh lining enhances breathability, with the Dry2Dry breathable membrane to wick away moisture.

Protective features include PU reinforcements at the toe, heel counter, footbed and ankle protection - CE certified level 2/2/1/2 (EN 13634), level 2 (calf) height and abrasion resistance, level 1 impact cut protection and level 2 transverse rigidity.

Additional features include microfibre upper, rubber anti-slip motorcycle sole and TPU Gear shifter.

Helix Dry2Dry Unisex Boot

The Helix Dry2Dry boot by Oxford Products features a glove-friendly 'Freelock' lace-free fitting system for a precise fit and quick and easy removal and a Dry2Dry waterproof and breathable microfibre construction and reinforced, protective structure.

Designed for superior protection and comfort, there are PU reinforced toe and heel boxes and nylon boot shank in the sole to ensure durable protection in a streamlined style.

Protection is CE Certified Level 1/2/2/1 (EN 13634:2017), CE Level 1 ankle height, CE level 2 abrasion and impact cut resistance and CE Level 1 Transverse rigidity.

Additional features include Dry2Dry waterproof and breathable fixed membrane, 3D mesh lining for breathability, microfibre/nylon upper, rubber sole with superior all terrain tread, TPU gear shifter and ribbed rear upper ankle panel for comfort and flexibility.

Also available is a unisex Helix Air ventilated summer sport boot featuring the 'Freelock' lacing system with a similar suite of protection and comfort features, plus a large air-mesh tongue to maximise the airflow.

OXFORD PRODUCTS

www.oxfordproducts.com

Barnett Tool & Engineering

Barnett high-performance GSX800 clutch kit

Founded in 1948, Ventura, California based Barnett Tool & Engineering first started making clutch plates in the late 1950s and is a longtime leader in premium motorcycle clutches and cables.

This all-new Barnett Clutch Kit for the Suzuki GSX800has been "engineered for riders who demand smoother engagement, improved durability, and consistent power delivery - this kit elevates the performance of Suzuki's modern middleweight platform."

Designed as a direct OEM replacement, the kit utilises advanced friction materials and high-strength components to withstand "aggressive street riding, spirited mountain runs, and track-day demands."

Barnett's Kevlar Friction Plates offer cooler operation, stronger bite, and longer service life. The tempered Steel Drive Plates are built for warp resistance and precise tolerances with heavy-duty clutch springs increasing pressure for improved power transfer while maintaining a responsive lever feel.

A direct fitment, they are a fully reversible, modification-free install using the factory components.

Engineered, tested, and built in the USA. "Our team developed this GSX800 kit to give riders a noticeable upgrade in clutch feel, longevity, and overall performance," said Chris Taylor, Marketing Director. "Suzuki's GSX platform continues to evolve, and this clutch kit is designed to keep up with riders pushing their machines harder than ever."

BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES

www.barnettclutches.com

Omnia Racing Special Parts

Omnia Italy - BST carbon wheels distributor

Naples based Omnia Racing Special Parts has been appointed as the exclusive distributor for South African made BST carbon fibre wheels (Black Stone Tek) in Italy.

Marking a significant step in expanding BST's presence in one of Europe's key performance markets, BST is globally recognised for its pioneering carbon wheel technology, earning it a leading reputation in both racing and premium road applications. 

Omni CEO Fabrizio Bertollini told IDN that "BST wheels are known for their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, precision engineering, and aerodynamic performance. BST carbon wheels are used by top racing teams and performance enthusiasts worldwide - those who demand cutting-edge technology and safety certification for street use.

"As the newly appointed official distributor for Italy, Omnia Racing will provide the full BST product range to the Italian market, offering direct availability, technical support, and customer service that is tailored to riders, workshops, and dealers nationwide." 

With over two decades of experience in high-performance motorcycle components, Omnia Racing brings strong expertise and an established distribution network that will support BST's growth in Southern Europe.

"We are extremely proud to represent BST in Italy," said Fabrizio. "BST carbon wheels represent the pinnacle of innovation and performance, and this partnership allows us to offer Italian riders access to the finest technology available today."

ww.omniaracing.net