Honda

Honda Unit Sales up in second quarter

HONDA has announced that Group Unit Sales were 4,581,000 units for their second quarter this year (July - September 2014) compared to 4,216,000 last year - an increase of 0.365 percent.

For the first half of their current financial year, Group Unit Sales are up by +0.448 percent at 8,718,000 units, from 8,270,000 units for the first six months of their 2013/2014 financial year.

Launched at INTERMOT this year, Honda's new Forza 125 is "designed for those European customers who demand more from a 125cc scooter" according to the company

Group Unit Sales include motorcycles made and sold by Honda subsidiary and partner businesses; Consolidated Unit Sales (the output from Honda factories) were +0.158 percent for the second quarter (2,743,000 units) and +0.244 percent (5,200,000 units) for the first six months of their current financial year

Bonamici Racing

Rearsets for R nineT

BONAMICI Racing is among the growing number of companies producing aftermarket parts and accessories for the R nineT with the launch of billet aluminium rearsets for the latest of BMW’s motorcycle.

CNC machined from 7075 aluminium billet, the rearsets use bearings to eliminate friction and feature a return spring to assist rear brake lever action. The rearsets are available in a choice of black or silver anodising and other colour options can be requested. Matching pillion pegs are also available.

BONAMICI RACING
Magliano Sabina (RI), ITALY
Tel: +39 0744 919939
bonamiciracing@hotmail.it
www.bonamiciracing.it

Rekluse

'Core' Manual clutch with TorqDrive

REKLUSE has released a new performance manual clutch product which it has developed for some off-road bike and ATV applications. The Rekluse Core Manual with TorqDrive clutch uses components that are said to be lighter than stock and innovative technology allowing the clutch pack to be configured with up to 12 steel friction discs and 12 steel drive plates. 

"I really feel the power of the bike more with this clutch and without sacrificing any lever stiffness," says Rekluse team rider Max Anstie. "In the MX2 class power delivery is crucial and with the Rekluse clutch, it just feels like it hooks up and really pulls out of the corners."

"The clutch hooks up great off the start and has a smooth yet very powerful feel," says Scott Champion, Pro AMA Supercross rider. "Coming out of corners it really hooks up and makes the bike feel faster. I also noticed I charge through the whoops faster with better tracking and more confidence." 
 
REKLUSE
Boise, Idaho, USA
Tel: +1 208 426 0659
tech@rekluse.com
www.rekluse.com

Gianni Falco

Falco women's sneaker line



FOLLOWING the success of their men's riding shoes, Falco have released Kamila, a new sneaker range for women.

Made for women who ride for urban commuting or short range trips and need a comfortable shoe when walking, Kamila is comparable to a classic ankle-top sneaker, but with all the requirements for comfort and safety typical of a more technical motorcycle boot.

Kamila features a waterproof inner membrane and ankle reinforcements; the sole is made of double compound rubber. The lining is a "High-tex" membrane, and protection is also provided by toe and heel reinforcement.

GIANNI FALCO
S.r.l.
Caselle di Altivole (TV), ITALY
Tel. +39 0423 915272

sales@giannifalco.com

www.giannifalco.com

Powerbronze

Honda CB650F belly pan



POWERBRONZE says its belly pan for the 2014 Honda CB650F not only reduces air drag, but also protects the engine components from stones and other debris that can be thrown up from the road.

The belly pan is made from high impact ABS plastic and has German TÜV Type approval. It is available in black, white or carbon look, with gold or silver coloured mesh vents.


POWERBRONZE
Littlehampton, West Sussex, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1903 783222
sales@powerbronze.co.uk
www.powerbronze.co.uk

R&G

R&G radiator protection range increased

R&G has increased its range of radiator guards to include the majority of the latest motorcycles on the market. The simple-to-fit and inexpensive product adds a layer of defence for the expensive to repair or replace cooling systems on a bike, without reducing airflow.

R&G radiator guards are available in either a lightweight aluminium construction or the recently introduced, heavy-duty stainless steel option, aimed at the adventure and naked bike sectors.
R&G also offers similar products with its oil cooler guard and downpipe grill and claims to be the first to market with the downpipe grill concept, and in many cases they can only be fitted when used with a radiator guard.
The R&G radiator guard range stands at over 200 separate part numbers, covering an extensive variety of bikes.

R&G
Alton, Hampshire, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1420 89007
info@rg-racing.com
www.rg-racing.com

Zandona

Zandonà Shark Armour

ZANDONÀ’S Shark Armour is a back protector that incorporates a chest protector, and is fully CE approved according to EN1621-2/03.

The back protector element is a high-technology deformable structure said to guarantee high shock absorption levels and is composed of splinter-proof plastic materials and E.V.C. (Evoluted Viscoelastic Cells), an innovative waterproof anti-shock material with high performance/weight/thickness ratio. The plates that make up the protector are joined to a drop a wire system that distribute any impact throughout the whole protection surface.
The breastbone/chest protector performs a high level of impact energy dispersion and absorption due to being developed using the same technology as the back protectors. The chest protector is CE approved according to EN-1621-2/03 and the back protector is CE approved according to EN-1621-2/03 – Lev2.

ZANDONÀ
Caerano di San Marco, ITALY
Tel: +39 0423 569135
info@zandona.net
www.zandona.net

CNC Racing

CNC Racing handlebars and Ducati Multistrada 1200 Easy footpeg kit

 

CNC Racing has introduced a line of handlebars for use on Naked bikes, which it says it produces using a superior quality manufacturing process.

The aluminium ‘bars, which are finished in a range of anodised colours, are available in a selection of sizes. There is a 22mm constant diameter bar that is 720mm wide, has 45mm of rise and 23 degrees of sweep. In variable diameter styles there are three options, all with 29mm centre sections and 22mm control sections. There are two handlebars that are 720mm wide; one has 72 degrees of sweep and 30mm of rise, while the other has 50mm of rise and 25 degrees of sweep. The final option is the 756mm wide, 15mm high bar with 20 degrees of sweep.

CNC Racing’s Easy footpeg kit for the Ducati Multistrada 1200 is a replacement adjustable fitment. They feature three peg positions, and there is an additional spacer to move the toe peg outwards as well. 

The toe peg itself is CNC machined for a sporty look, and at the same time a touring grip.
The fastening bushing around which the footpegs turn are made of bronze for long life.
CNC Racing’s footpegs are available to fit the Multistrada 1200, 1200 S Sport, 1200 S Touring, 1200 S Touring D|air, 1200 S Pikes Peak and 1200 S Granturismo 

CNC RACING
Arezzo, ITALY
Tel: +39 0575 342010
info@cncracing.it
www.cncracing.it

European motorcycle markets

Major European markets continue to see growth

The latest new model registration data released by the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany, shows that motorcycle registrations there in September were up by 20.7 percent over September 2013, and at 6,124 units for the month were higher than at any time since 2008.
For the year to date, German motorcycle registrations are up by 9.2 percent, at 88,636 units (compared to 81,175 units for the equivalent period in 2013), also making it the best first nine month performance in Germany since 2008.
In total PTW terms, Germany was up by 16.5 percent in September (9,594 units - also the best since 2008), and at 127,332 units total PTW registrations in Germany are up by 7.0 percent for the first 9 months - also the best performance since 2008.

The growth in Spain continues with new motorcycle registrations up by 24.7 percent in September at 10,585 units - the best since 2011. That means the Spanish motorcycle market is up by 19.2 percent at 84,988 units for the year to date - also the best since 2011.
In total PTW terms, Spain was up by 21.5 percent in September (11,993 units) and is running at +16.0 percent (95,906 units) for the year to date.
Jose Maria Riano, Secretary General of ANESDOR (the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain), says that "the growth in the motorcycle market in Spain continues to exceed even our own forecasts. More and more people are choosing scooters and motorcycles as a tool for daily mobility and embracing the substantial savings that two wheels represent".

The good news continues in the UK with September new motorcycle registrations up by 6.7 percent in September at 11,218 units - the best September performance since 2008.
For the year to date motorcycle registrations in the UK are up by 11.6 percent at 75,192 units - the best 9 month performance since seen 2009.
In total PTW terms, the UK market was up by 6.4 percent in September (12,623 units) and is running at +10.2 percent for the year to date (83,483 units) - again, the best 9 month performance seen since 2009.




 

As the market gears up for the 100th anniversary EICMA 'Milan Show' in November, even Italy is seeing somewhat of an improvement in market performance with total PTW registrations up by 1.95 percent in September - 12,628 units, the best September performance since 2011.
In year to date terms, the Italian market is +1.6 percent for the first nine months of the year, at 134,846 units - the best since 2011.

Dublin Show 2015

Dublin Show 2015

THE Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show will take place at the RDS (Royal Dublin showground) in Dublin, Ireland, over the weekend of 27 Feb – 1 March, 2015. 

The Motorbike & Scooter Show, which is the largest of its kind in Ireland, attracted over 27,000 visitors in 2013, and is now taking bookings for exhibitor display places.
Among the companies that exhibited in 2013 were Ace Café London, AKB Moto Distribution, Bike Buyer’s Guide, BMW, Dublin Harley-Davidson, Feridax, Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK Ltd, Helite UK, Honda Distributors Ltd, Lloyd Lifestyle Ltd, Powerbronze Ltd, Skidmarx and Victory Motorcycles-Polaris. 

In addition to being an AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building affiliate show, and having invited racers and celebrities, retail and new motorcycle display opportunities, the show will also feature live action entertainment, world class stunt shows, demo races, a lifestyle fashion show, Ireland’s Got Biking Talent and new for 2015 Ace Global Freestyle Stunt Starz competition.

SDL EXHIBITIONS LTD
Dublin, IRELAND
Tel: +353 1 405 5550
ruth@sdlexpo.com
www.irishmotorbikeshow.com

Fehling

Fehling options for XV 950 R

YAMAHA’S factory Bobber, the XV 950 R, is the latest motorcycle to benefit from the experience of Fehling and its extensive range of luggage and protection options.
Fehling’s range of products for the XV 950 R includes its one-piece protection guard that mounts to the frame’s downtubes. Made from 38mm tubing, it offers protection to the engine cases. 

Higher up at the front Fehling is offering a mounting bar for additional spotlights. If the bar is used, the stock turn signal lights need to be replaced with aftermarket units. 
Moving to the rear of the bike, the Fehling luggage range for the XV 950 R provides a baggage holder. The tubular rails can be used to help support throw-over style soft panniers.

Fehling’s range of rear racks for the XV 950 R is made up of its tubular rear rack that mounts on the rear mudguard above the taillight when the pillion pad is installed, a solo rack that mounts in the space between the rider’s seat and the rear light, and the sheet metal solo rack that mounts in the same location. There are also two racks that have integrated sissybars. One version has a sissybar and pad for the driver and the second is for when the pillion pad is in place. 

ERNST FEHLING GMBH & CO
Wickede (Ruhr), GERMANY
Tel: +49 (0)2377 2033
info@fehling.de
www.fehling.de

Galfer

Galfer brake kit for BMW C600 Sport and C650 GT

GALFER has developed a selection of brake kits for use on the BMW maxi-scooter. The kits include laser-cut, high carbon stainless steel Disc Wave rotors, which are said to be up to 20 percent lighter than OEM parts, and Galfer’s own brake pads.

There are two options; the basic kit made up of two Wave discs and pads for use on the front of the scooter, and a second, which is made up of the basic plus a rear rotor and pads.
Galfer’s patented Disc Wave design is said to offer not just lighter weight, but also better water and dirt removal and a better cooling, significantly improving the brake’s performance.
All Galfer products are made in Spain and approved by the German TÜV.

INDUSTRIAS GALFER SA
Barcelona, SPAIN
Tel: +34 93 5689 090
galfer@galfer.es
www.galfer.eu

Andreani Group

Andreani off-road piston kit

ANDREANI Group has designed a new concept for its latest piston kit that allows users to replace the original piston in Showa, Kayaba, White Power and Sachs shocks. 

The company says the piston kit has been created to radically improve the feeling and performances of motocross, enduro and supermotard machines, ensuring more traction and easier control of the bike during breaks and on fast sections.
The kits includes a 50mm diameter piston with 25 micron treatment furnished with an exclusive oil flow design, a Teflon band designed to resist high temperatures and a shim set to tune the kit to the rider’s style and weight. 

ANDREANI GROUP
Pesaro (PU), ITALY
Tel: +39 0721 20921
sales@andreanigroup.com
www.andreanigroup.com

Motoz

Trials inspired mountain hybrid off-road tyre

MOTOZ has launched a new tyre – the Mountain Hybrid – which it describes as having the traction characteristics of a trials tyre with the dimensions of a serious off-road enduro tyre.

The Mountain Hybrid tyre has been developed for use by riders who ride enduro bikes in conditions that come close to trials riding where they want to maintain the bike’s handling characteristics. Motoz says of the new design that it, “Climbs like a trials tyre, but handles corners, creek crossings, some mud, sand and rocks like a regular DOT approved off-road tyre due to its construction like a trials tyre, but with reinformed sidewalls to allow lower inflation pressure when riding in off-road and mountain conditions.”
The design of the Mountain hybrid tyre includes a flexible tread concave and lock system, to give increased traction while avoiding punctures at low inflation pressures, and a unique tread design that looks like a trials tyre, but has large and tall tread blocks like those normally found on a regular off-road enduro tyre with each tread block having deep sypes for extra trials-like grip.

MOTOZ PTY LTD
Brookvale, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
Tel: +61 (0)2 9905 5155
rick@motoz.com.au
www.motoz.com.au

Planet Knox

Protection options from Knox

Knox continues to expand its rider protection line with its Covert gloves. They feature new OutDry waterproof technology that keeps the gloves thin and light. The OutDry membrane is bonded directly to the glove's shell, and this is said to prevent the build-up of water between the outer and inner layers as well as sealing stitching and joins, for a complete and durable waterproof, breathable and windproof finish.

Made from Korean cowhide, the palm and fingertips are reinforced with Pittards digital goat leather, with biofoam panels on the thumb, top of hand and outer wrist. Patented scaphoid protection is provided by low profile Knox SPS sliders. There are also stretch panels and box construction fingers to aid dexterity.

Additionally, Knox has re-designed its Track vest, now manufactured using four-way stretch breathable mesh, combined with breathable, moisture-wicking and fast-drying Meryl Lycra. The Track vest includes the re-engineered Aegis back protector, which has spacer fabric and vents. The vest can be zipped off the back protector and machine-washed.
Certified to CE Level 2 of the latest European standard [EN1621-2: 2014], the Aegis has also been tested and approved at the optional high (+40 degrees Centigrade) and low (-20 degrees Centigrade) temperatures. A CE approved chest protector can also be added as an optional extra to the Track vest.

PLANET KNOX
Cockermouth, Cumbria, UK
Tel: 01900 825825
sales@planet-knox.com
www.planet-knox.com

Surflex

New Ducati clutch kits

SURFLEX has launched two new clutch disc kits to suit the 899 Panigalina and 1199 Panigale.

The two new kits are interchangeable with the original ones, and are said to transmit the engine’s power without losing fluidity or modulation. They are composed of eleven friction discs with an aluminium core and ten steel middle discs. The coverage of friction discs, made of a carbon material mix, is designed to meet the needs of very powerful engines. The specific friction material for Ducati engines presents an excellent resistance to high temperatures and supports prolonged use without losing efficiency. 

SURFLEX
Tradate (VA), ITALY
Tel: +39 0331-811795
surflex@iol.it
www.surflex.it

Vertix - Motohaus Powersports

Vertix Bluetooth multimedia helmet interface

 

MOTOHAUS Powersports now has the Vertix Raptor-i Bluetooth multimedia helmet interface available, which connects wirelessly to GPS, MP3 player, phone or other riders/passengers to deliver communication. 

With the Raptor-i fitted, riders can make and receive calls, communicate with two other riders in line of sight up to a range of 800m, listen to FM radio stations or connect to an MP3 player via Bluetooth. Cut-the-Noise technology, which then constantly evaluates surrounding noise to provide optimum output power to the earphones, means that riders can hear and be heard clearly at speeds up to 130mph and, because Raptor audio is designed specifically for users wearing ear protection, clear sounds come through.

Buttons on the waterproof helmet-mounted control unit are slightly bigger than a normal handheld device to compensate for reduced sensitivity when wearing gloves.
The Raptor-i control unit weighs 48g, measuring 77 × 51 × 24mm, and is supplied with a choice of open or full face headsets.

MOTOHAUS POWERSPORTS LTD
Odiham, Hampshire, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1256 704 909
info@motohaus.com
www.motohaus.com

Peugeot Scooters

Indian conglomerate Mahindra to buy controlling 51% stake in Peugeot Scooters

The $16.5Bn turnover Mumbai, India based Mahindra group is buying a 51 percent controlling stake in French vehicle maker PSA Group's Peugeot Scooters subsidiary.

The owner of Peugeot and Citroen cars is believed to have been seeking union approval in France of a recovery plan as part of the group's "Back in the Race" strategic plan to get the vehicle maker on to a "road map to an accelerated recovery".

Mahindra Two Wheelers, a subsidiary of the Mahindra group, first entered the scooter business in 2008 through acquisition of Kinetic Motor, and sees the deal as a way of gaining access to European technology to boost a division that has been loss-making for some time, with production down by half to 10,787 units from 22,546 in the year ago period.

Mahindra has stated that a "robust portfolio in scooters" would be critical to its overall two wheeler strategy. With the Peugeot deal, Mahindra will get the research and development capabilities that it lacks and a strong European footprint.

Mahindra will acquire their 51 percent majority stake in return for a €15m cash injection, and a €13m share purchase, making the deal for half of a company that generated revenues of €99m last year worth €28m in total.

Described as the "oldest motorised two-wheeler manufacturer in the world", and "a key player in urban mobility in Europe for 116 years", Peugeot produced some 79,000 scooters in 2013.

Peugeot claims that the investment will help fund new models and secure the future of its plant at Mandeure, France, where it employs 500 people, and its facility in Jinan, China, a joint venture with Qinji, where it has a further 300 employees.

Down the years, Peugeot has racked up many notable scooter technology firsts, and is not entirely new to involvement in the Indian market - the mid 1980s saw it collaborate with Shree Chamundi Mopeds.

Mahindra Executive Director Pawan Goenka is quoted as telling a press conference that "Mahindra will not restructure Peugeot Scooters for two years, but will look to turn around the business focusing on growing volumes".

Goenka said that the existing management will remain in place at Peugeot Scooters, but that Mahindra will have three seats on the board. He went on to say that while "Peugeot will continue to remain a premium product, Mahindra will focus on the mass market and is eyeing other Asian market opportunities such as Vietnam".