Thursday, 8 October 2026

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


Thursday, 1 October 2026

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