BS Battery

BS Battery and Aprilia Racing 

The French family-owned powersports battery specialist has unveiled a new corporate film created in collaboration with APRILIA Racing, showcasing a partnership that "extends from production motorcycles to the highest level of motorcycle racing."

As an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), BS Battery equips Aprilia motorcycles with its lithium batteries, notably the BSLi-04/06. "This collaboration reflects APRILIA's confidence in BS Battery's expertise and its ability to deliver lightweight, high-performance and reliable power solutions for today's motorcycles.

"Beyond the road, the partnership reaches the pinnacle of motorcycle racing. Since 2023, BS Battery has been Technical Sponsor of Aprilia Racing in MotoGP, supporting one of the sport's most prestigious teams in an environment where every detail matters and every second counts."

Beyond its technical dimension, the collaboration gives BS Battery international visibility across the entire Aprilia Racing ecosystem. The brand is featured on the race bikes, riders' leathers, official teamwear and throughout various areas of the paddock.

The partnership also enables BS Battery to invite distributors, customers and partners to enjoy exclusive experiences at the heart of MotoGP through APRILIA Racing hospitality. "A unique opportunity to share the passion for motorcycling, discover the behind-the-scenes world of racing and strengthen relationships with partners in an exceptional environment."

This collaboration will also be highlighted at EICMA 2026, where the APRILIA Racing RS-GP 2026 MotoGP bike will be displayed on the BS Battery stand (Hall 10 - Stand E97).

"The new film shows how both brands share the same pursuit of excellence and pushing boundaries. Whether on production motorcycles or on the grid, technology drives performance while passion fuels the ambition to go even further.

"From engineering offices and production lines to paddocks and racetracks around the world, BS Battery and Aprilia Racing continue to pursue a common goal: performing at the highest level."

Watch the film: BS BATTERY x APRILIA | Born to Perform, Power to Win.

Comment by Editor, Robin Bradley

Is the present growth in registrations sustainable? 

Have I woken from a fever dream? Have I have fallen down a Rabbit Hole into a parallel universe where buying a motorcycle is a civic duty?

The last time I experienced anything like this was after the start of the Covid Pandemic. Back then it was as if buying a motorcycle was part of the course of medical treatment that had been prescribed to keep everyone healthy. 

Or if not a complete bike, then maybe a seat, or exhaust, or set of handlebars and controls; or maybe a new helmet? Boots? Gloves? Something, anything to help keep the local dealership open and stave off the fear of falling victim of the new plague.

Now though? In this 'multi-war' era rising costs, uncertainty, ignorance, bigotry, AI-creep and widespread cultural atrophy, has buying a motorcycle again been prescribed as good for our souls? Has riding again assumed its rightful position as Europe's official universal antidote to awfulness?

That's how it felt after spending a morning writing up this month's new motorcycle registration statistics (see pages 6 & 7). Indeed, so impressed was I by the apparently unstoppable juggernaut of 2026 market trends that if you diligently read all the 'News Briefs' scattered through the pages of this edition you'll be witness to a motivation to report that borders on obsession.

debt is not a virtue

However, caution is still advised. The statistics themselves still have to be regarded with a degree of scepticism. There is no playbook to tell us when we formally emerge from under the statistical shadow of the Euro 5+ 'Preg Reg' trauma. Some 18 months or more after the event, for H2 2026 to be showing unusually strong growth characteristics does suggest that there may still be some underlying effects at play in some markets.

Time for some facts. In Italy motorcycle registrations are running at +4.7% for the first nine months of the year (120,364 fun rockets) with total new PTWs (Powered Two-Wheelers) at +10.88% - that is 313,032 machines (of one kind or another) in just nine months. If there is anyone left in Italy without one, give me a call and I'm sure I'll be able to hook you up.

Of course it wasn't always thus. As recently as the first half of 2025 it felt like the Italian market had fallen off a cliff.

In Germany, where the market really had fallen over the edge of an apparently bottomless abyss (in statistical terms at any rate), a re-found enthusiasm for life on two wheels saw growth in the first eight months of the year up by a staggering +17.51% (91,946) new motorcycles and +24.75% total PTWs (158,000 of your earth units). Someone must have disabled Germany's 'Caution' button!

In the ever dependable, motorcycle obsessed Spanish market, a 21.35% YTD growth in the new motorcycle registrations (219,594 units YTD) hardly seems remarkable anymore. But it is. While Spain managed to pass through the ring of fire that was the 2024/2025 Euro 5+ 'Pre-Reg' trauma pretty much unscathed, it hasn't always necessarily been that way there. After a decade or so of extraordinary growth in 'the noughties' the Spanish motorcycle industry was hit hard, very hard by the Global financial crisis and recovery didn't come quickly or easily for Spanish dealers.

But when it did, the market there grew quickly. The market in Spain seems unstoppable now. Well, to the envious eyes of this Brit it does. In recent years we here on our little island, cast adrift a sea of decline on the sea of the edge of the European mainland, banned from the top table and humiliated by our own hubris, we have felt like the proverbial 'red headed stepchild' when it came to the performance of the British motorcycle market.

Even in the UK though, new motorcycle registrations are up, and up strongly at +14.77% YTD with 83,775 new units registered through September.  Okay, okay, compared to some markets that is no great shakes, but after years of decline, wandering around in the darkness of the economic wilderness, it is at least a torch light beam of optimism.

With the 'MotoGP fest' that will be the 83rd Esposizione Internazionale Ciclo Motociclo e Accessori (EICMA) almost upon us, what does this year's show hold for us? The strategic thinking behind ANCMA's pivot to embracing Liberty Media's massive Dorna/MotoGP expansion budgets should, in theory, have a trickle-down effect to the P&A/G&A sectors - even though an increasing majority of show traffic is not old enough to hold a motorcycle license yet. 

There is a lot of 'smoke and mirrors', misleading 'facts' and downright lies in the statistics that EICMA releases at the end of each show. The exaggerated attendance is one thing, but it is the annual claim of some 20 percent of exhibitors being new each year that is nonsense. 

MotoGP already absorbs disproportionate percentages of the industry's sales and marketing budgets. But as the ambitions of EICMA and the ownership of Dorna grow ever more inflated, will there be any investment capital, R&D and marketing budgets left for the parts, accessory and apparel exhibitor community? Or are we simply handing over our business bank account PIN numbers to Liberty Media?

Does the concept of "trickle down" even exist at all? Most Economists think that it is a bogus concept. Besides, where racing investments are concerned, the days of win on Sundays and sell on Mondays are long since over. 

Long may the present apparent trend in new motorcycle registrations continue, and long may we all live in that parallel universe, regardless that it is a deluded 'happy place' bubble in which perception triumphs over reality. Real world truths are inconvenient truths. Debt is the black where economic progress metrics are concerned.

Bubbles have a habit of popping though. All it takes is an uptick in the bond yield curve, a hike in interest rates, an inflation increase or another war for it to all end badly.

This still a fragile market that could, almost overnight, see us be back where we were 20 years ago. Maybe we can all go and live in abandoned data centres when the debt bubble bursts. Personally, I'd take sustainable, rational, realistic mid-single digit growth all day long. 

Galfer

Ducati and Galfer - "a trust relationship that keeps expanding"

Galfer is equipping the new generation of high-performance Ducati's with braking components - from MX to enduro and supermotard - as its "role as the chosen technology partner" deepens.

Ducati has "once again" chosen Galfer as its technology partner for the development of braking systems for its high-performance motorcycles. "The partnership between the two brands has developed particularly strongly in the off-road sector" says  CEO Francisco Catena Martínez, "before expanding into new applications, further confirming Ducati's confidence in Galfer braking solutions.

Galfer CEO Francisco Catena Martínez

"The collaboration between Ducati and Galfer is particularly significant in the off-road sector, where braking technology must deliver performance, control and consistency even in the most demanding conditions.

"The partnership began with the Desmo450 MX, equipped with Galfer Shark discs front and rear, and was subsequently extended to the Desmo250 MX, also featuring Galfer braking solutions specifically developed for motocross."

The collaboration has continued with the new Desmo450 EDS, bringing Galfer technology into the enduro world with a 260 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, "developed to deliver precision, modulation and resistance even under the most demanding riding conditions" says Francisco.

"From the motocross track to enduro trails, Galfer's presence across Ducati's off-road range confirms a technology partnership built on direct racing experience and the development of solutions specifically tailored to each discipline.

The new Ducati Desmo450 SM marks Ducati's entry into the production supermotard segment, "bringing a racing-oriented philosophy to the road. For this project too, Ducati has chosen Galfer as its technology partner for the braking system."

The Desmo450 SM is equipped with a 310 mm Galfer floating front disc featuring Floatech technology, together with a 240 mm Galfer rear disc. "Floatech represents an additional advantage in terms of performance and control, helping to maintain a consistent and precise braking response even under the most demanding riding conditions. The configuration is designed to deliver high braking power, modulation and control, all essential elements for supermotard riding."

In motocross, Galfer supports the Red Bull Ducati Factory MXGP Team, competing in the FIM Motocross World Championship - with Andrea Bonacorsi and Calvin Vlaanderen. In the United States, the partnership extends to the Troy Lee Designs Red Bull Ducati Factory Racing Team, competing in the AMA Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross championships.

"The partnership also extends to the development of young talent. Galfer is an Official Supplier and Sponsor of the V2 Future Champ Ducati Academy, Ducati's program dedicated to supporting young riders and developing the next generation of Ducati racing talent.

"Our presence within the Academy represents further recognition of Galfer's technological expertise and the trust that Ducati places in our braking technology. Providing young riders with products developed and refined at the highest levels of competition means bringing decades of racing know-how to their formative first competitive experiences.

"The collaboration with Ducati is a case study of our development strategy. We develope our braking technology through racing, and transfer the experience gained on the track directly to the production motorcycles.

"Motocross, enduro, supermotard and road applications are therefore part of a single research, development and competition technological journey, in which they all contribute to the creation of increasingly advanced braking systems.

"Ducati's choice of Galfer confirms the value of a technology partnership built on shared expertise, the pursuit of maximum performance and a common commitment to bringing racing experience directly to the next generation of motorcycles."

Larsson

Larsson - Europe's Independent Dealer and Workshop support hub 

The European motorcycle aftermarket is evolving faster than ever before. As new motorcycle brands are entering the market the opportunities for the independent workshop sector (especially) become ever better.

As vehicle technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and independent workshops are expected to service a growing variety of models while maintaining the highest standards of efficiency, they represent a market resource whose importance is growing.

For distributors, this creates a new challenge. Success is no longer about offering everything. It is about providing workshops with exactly what they need to repair motorcycles quickly, accurately and profitably.

This is the philosophy that has shaped Larsson.

Stefan Onken

Originating from Joh. Matthies GmbH & Co. KG in Hamburg, Germany, Larsson has grown into one of Europe's leading workshop-focused motorcycle aftermarket networks. Today, Larsson is represented by dedicated companies in Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and France. Together, they combine local market knowledge with the advantages of a strong European purchasing, logistics and product platform.

'we do not sell fashion'

The international development of the Larsson network has been coordinated by industry veteran Stefan Onken - he is responsible for the motorcycle business and the continued expansion of the network throughout Europe.

"From the very beginning, Larsson made a strategic decision that still defines the company today" says Stefan. "We do not sell fashion. We do not sell helmets. We do not compete in lifestyle products.

"Instead, we focus entirely on supporting professional motorcycle workshops. Every investment we make is driven by one objective: helping workshops repair motorcycles successfully. 

"Whether it is through reliable spare parts, technical consumables, workshop equipment, batteries, chemicals or accurate product information, our mission is to be the backbone of the independent motorcycle workshop."

At the heart of this concept lies information. For Larsson, data and an unrivalled knowledge base and product offer are key. Larsson's electronic parts catalogue covers more than 65,000 motorcycle models, making it one of the most comprehensive catalogues available to the independent aftermarket. 

"Fast and accurate parts identification enables workshops to reduce repair times, minimise ordering errors and improve customer satisfaction," says Stefan.

'looking for distribution partners to complete Larsson's European network'

"As the European motorcycle market continues to change, Larsson continues to invest. One of today's fastest-growing segments is the increasing number of motorcycles from Chinese manufacturers. While many aftermarket suppliers are still catching up, Larsson has already integrated these new brands into its catalogue and product programme, ensuring that independent workshops can confidently service both established manufacturers and the next generation of motorcycles entering the European market.

"This clear workshop focus has enabled Larsson to build long-term partnerships throughout Europe. But the journey is far from complete.

"We are now looking for new distribution partners in every European country where Larsson is not yet represented. Our ambition is to expand the network with new partners who share our belief that the future belongs to distributors who help workshops solve problems - not simply supply products."

By becoming part of the Larsson network, partners gain access to a comprehensive workshop-oriented product range, one of Europe's most advanced electronic motorcycle parts catalogues, strong purchasing power, efficient European logistics and the experience of a network that has been growing successfully for decades.

"If you are looking to strengthen your position in the motorcycle aftermarket and build a long-term partnership with one of Europe's leading workshop specialists, we would be delighted to meet you. Visit us at EICMA or call or email us to discover the Larsson concept and discuss partnership opportunities."

www.larsson-europe.com

POD Active

POD K4 3.0 - 'The Next Evolution'

For more than 20 years, POD Active (Australia) has focused on one thing - "building knee braces that help riders stay protected and keep doing what they love" says Marketing Manager Byron Marsh.

"Trusted by world champions including Haiden Deegan, Trystan Hart, Ben Kelley, Cole Davies and Steve Holcombe, along with thousands of riders across motocross, off-road, mountain biking, snow and action sports, the K4 has become the world's most trusted knee brace.

"Now, after years of rider feedback, development and real-world testing, it is Reborn. Retaining the lightweight, low profile feel that made the K4 so popular, the K4 3.0 has been refined to deliver a better fit, greater comfort, improved protection and even greater durability."

Built around POD's proven Impact Modified Frame with flexible adaptive cuffs, it moves naturally with the rider while delivering premium ligament support and impact protection. Medically certified and clinically proven to reduce the prevalence and severity of knee injuries, the K4 3.0 gives riders the confidence to push harder, ride longer and stay protected when it matters most.

At the heart of every POD brace is the Human Motion Hinge, and the K4 3.0 takes it even further. Larger Synthetic Ligaments, a stronger hinge housing and an integrated knee capture design improve stability while helping redirect harmful forces away from the knee's ligaments. New snap-in hinge pads also make fitting quicker and easier than ever.

"Protection has been upgraded with new full-coverage impact guards and a secure fastening system that keeps them firmly in place without restricting airflow. The guards can also be removed in seconds, making the K4 3.0 equally at home in motocross, enduro, mountain biking, snow and water sports."

Comfort has also been rethought. New FLEX Grip Frame Liners are bonded directly to the frame to reduce bulk, improve grip and eliminate moisture absorption, helping the brace stay comfortable, hygienic and easy to maintain.

"Fine-tuning the fit is simple," says Byron. "With interchangeable hinge pads and an adjustable Progressive Extension Control System offering extension limits from 10° to 20°. The result is a brace that feels more natural, fits better and performs longer."

Available in three colour options and a complete size range for youth and adult riders, the POD K4 3.0 is "built for riders who demand premium protection, exceptional comfort and proven performance."

www.podactive.com

National Cycle

VStream for 2025+ Transalp XL750

Maywood, Illinois based windscreen specialist National Cycle has added a model specific screen fitment to its range of VStream technology windshields for the popular Honda Transalp.

These new windscreens can "take any abuse that an aggressive street touring or off-road rider can throw at them." Three different sizes and tints ensure a perfect windscreen for almost every rider size or riding preference.

The VStream shape pushes the wind vortex out and away from the rider's helmet, resulting in a quieter and less turbulent riding environment.

Made from tough Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate for a level of extreme rider optical clarity, scratch resistance and impact strength that is "unmatched by any OEM or aftermarket windscreen maker in the world."

VStream windscreens are easy to install and are protected against breakage by a three-year Warranty. They are available in dark, mid and light tint, clear and tall. 

Since 1937, National Cycle has been manufacturing premiere designed OEM and aftermarket windscreens in-house since it was founded in 1937. "As the pioneering developer of hardcoated polycarbonate for motorcycle windshields, National Cycle is always on the forefront in enhancing the motorcyclist's riding experience."

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.

www.nationalcycle.com

Newfren

Newfren Brake Pads: Introducing the Brake-in Layer

The start-point for Italian Brake Pad manufacturer Newfren is always R&D – "Innovation comes from continuous research into friction materials and their real-world performance. This approach has led to a distinctive feature across the latest range of Newfren brake pads: the Brake-in Layer, the coloured surface layer applied directly to the friction material."

The name itself is a play on words, combining "brake" with "break-in" - the English term for the "bedding-in process." More than a visual signature, the Brake-in Layer has a precise technical purpose. 

During the initial braking phase, its slightly abrasive composition helps remove residues left on the brake disc by the previous pads, while supporting a more even bedding-in of the new friction material. This helps reduce coupling time and allows the pad and disc to reach their optimal working conditions progressively.

"The Brake-in Layer also provides a clear visual indication of the compound range: red for Road, green for Off-Road and light blue for Scooter."

The Newfren range includes six R90-approved sintered compounds, three racing compounds and four R90-approved organic compounds - "all made right here in Italy. From high-performance racing applications to touring, off-road, ATV and urban scooter use, each compound is developed to meet specific riding requirements, combining braking performance, stability, modulation and durability."

Newfren says that "with the Brake-in Layer, we have turned an essential phase of brake pad installation into a distinctive part of its technology - making innovation visible from the very first braking."

NEWFREN, brand of ENDURANCE TWO WHEELERS

www.newfren.com