INTERMOT 2016

INTERMOT dealer initiatives include IDN International Night

International Dealer News is pleased to announce that it is again collaborating with INTERMOT to present the “International Night” business networking reception at 18:00 hrs on the Trade Day, Wednesday October 5th.

An established and popular opportunity for exhibitors to meet with their importer/distributors and key dealers, it will be staged, as usual, at the Dealer Lounge Business Centre of the Koelnmesse exhibition centre, in the Business District off the main boulevard between halls 4 and 5.
The show is open to the media on Tuesday October 4th, with Wednesday October 5th being the International Trade Day, and will be open to all visitors Thursday October 6th to Sunday October 9th.

Promoted by International Dealer News, and hosted by INTERMOT and the show’s sponsors, International Night is unique in the international motorcycle industry - the only ‘meet & greet’ business reception specifically for international industry professionals of all kinds. 

The ‘Cologne’ Show has always been regarded as the world’s primary international motorcycle industry expo, and with the backing of International Dealer News and worldwide exhibitor and trade visitor footprint that is expected to reach at least 68 international markets and over 55,000 trade visitors in total (43 percent of them from outside Germany), this is a unique opportunity to meet colleagues from the industry in a relaxed environment as the show closes (at 18:00 hours) on the special Trade Visitor day.
Additional trade initiatives operated by INTERMOT include exclusive trade visitor vendor exhibition space in the business district; the Dealer Card, which provides show access privileges; and the online Matchmaking365 service, which is an expo visit experience optimiser – it enables trade visitors to gain an overview of the suppliers of selected product groups in the run-up to the fair, establish valuable business contacts and place targeted meeting requests.

www.intermot-cologne.com

Comment by Editor, Robin Bradley

Statistics, Safety and Shows

As the motorcycle industry in Europe gears-up for a multiple dose of Expo activity in October and November, the motorcycle registrations news from most of Europe’s primary markets is positive, and the rapidly evolving technology landscape in which we find ourselves means that these are exciting and significant times.
With C-ITS and much more on the horizon (as discussed at ACEM’s September conference), tackling the issue of motorcycle safety and the place of PTWs in the European road traffic accident fatality statistics is a timely initiative. Timely because the next generation of technology can make a real difference to motorcycle accident prevention and outcomes.
In the “kaizen” that is the management of large-scale economic impactors, though our humble little backwater of the capitalist world may not appear to amount to much, replicated a hundred times the economic benefits (to say nothing of the social, emotional and practical impacts) of reducing motorcycle fatalities becomes significant.
When motorcycle safety and the apparent and glaringly disproportionate role of motorcycling in the accident statistics first started to come to the EU’s attention a decade ago, Riders’ Rights groups (in particular) were vocal in their opposition to those who wished the two-wheel lifestyle ill.

 ‘better products at better prices’

As that opposition started to find its expression in research and hard facts, and in sensible and serious proposals to respect and protect a group of consumers who account to close to 10 percent of tax paying, voting age EU citizens, the EU started to take notice of riders, and from being a part of the problem, the recent ACEM conference showed just how far the EU’s opinion of motorcyclists has travelled in the past decade.
They are now “vulnerable road users” with every right to expect the same consideration from regulators, transport policy makers and other road users as that given to car drivers, bicycle users and pedestrians.
As manufacturers start to evolve systems that will contribute to improved customer safety and, importantly, do so without compromising the riding experience, we have yet another group of reasons to be optimistic about the two-wheel lifestyle’s future, and yet another marginal gain by which our industry’s ability to survive and thrive becomes ever more assured.
Yes, the riding experience will be different, but it has always evolved, it has never stood still, and neither should it. Much has been written about the scale and nature of the changes that have taken place in the motorcycle industry in the past decade, and they have been “off the scale”.
But although the statistical recovery seen so far cannot yet be regarded as “game changing”, the changes to the landscape in which the motorcycle industry now finds itself in product design and quality, regulatory, technology and policy terms is a massively changed game.
However, the recovery in new motorcycle registrations can now be regarded as “robust” - further improvement from the signs seen when the industry was getting ready for INTERMOT in 2014.
At that stage it looked as if the first signs of an end to market decline seen in the second half of 2013 could well result in an at worst “flat” market in 2014, and so it proved. That provided the foundation for the growth seen overall by the end of 2015. Indeed, it does now look like the modest growth we are seeing will sustain through 2016.
This month’s ‘StatZone’ includes the ACEM EU data to the end of July, in addition to many of the major individual markets’ August data. That report shows the cumulative growth of sales month-on-month so far this year, but we have also included the sales graph from 2008 through to the end of 2015.
The dramatic, alarming, potentially fatal market decline seen for so long is clearly now arrested, and the change seen in 2014 and 2015 should become a three-year trend in three months’ time.
What that graph also shows, however, is the recovery being strongest not at the budget end of motorcycling, but at the “top end” in terms of larger displacements and higher retail value machines.
This means our still yet relatively modest three-year recovery in unit number terms will have had a disproportionately positive impact on dealership revenues and on the budgets that the manufacturers have to further push the envelope of technology and safety.
The market is on the cusp of entering a virtuous cycle of improvement that is the exact reverse of the cycle of decline that we tumbled into a decade ago. As the machines get better, as the reasons to ride become ever increasingly undeniable, and as the price points consumers are willing to pay for higher quality continue to improve, then the cycle could become self-perpetuating.
The better and safer the manufacturers can make the machines, and the safer and better policy makers and regulators make the riding environment, then the more units we’ll sell and the more consumers will want to buy.
When it comes to “better products at better prices” there are, famously, two ways to interpret the dynamic. There is an inexorable drive towards wanting to see better ownership solutions available at lower price points for everything we buy, but there is also that well known abstract concept of value.
The mistake most businesses (and consumers) make about the concept of “value” is to assume that it is rooted in price, but that has never been the case. “Value” is 100 percent a function of quality, and is the factor that gives price its meaning.
Better products that can do more to keep you on the road, keep you out of the emergency room, and make it easier to ride in more conditions may not please the righteous tribes of “legacy” riders who see purity in machines as inanimate objects. However, to the zillions of consumers who will eventually dominate a landscape in which nobody has any pre-digital world experience to define expectations, better quality really will mean a better price.

AIMExpo 2017

AIMExpo moving from Orlando, Florida, to Columbus, Ohio, for 2017

 

The American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) has revealed its plan to move “North America’s premier powersports trade show” to a new host city in 2017, with The Greater Columbus Convention Centre (GCCC) at Columbus, Ohio, to be the chosen venue for the event from 2017.

(Photo courtesy: brandcolumbus.com)

The show is to remain a 4-day expo, but will be held a month earlier than its current mid-October slot in September – with September 21-24 booked for 2017.
Owned and operated since 2015 by the Motorcycle Industry Council in the United States (MIC), the organisers are saying that “geographically, Columbus is ideally placed, with 41 percent of both franchised and independent dealerships in the U.S. located within a 500-mile radius [of Columbus], including major markets like Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., St. Louis, and more.
“Ohio’s state capital is also the 15th-largest city in the country, and consistently ranks among the top cities for business growth”.
The move also continues the US powersports industry’s tradition of staging its most popular trade events in the Mid-West, with Advanstar’s now closed Dealer News International Powersports Expo having been held at Cincinnati, Ohio, for many years before it moved to Indianapolis, and Easyrider’s Events’ V-Twin Expo being staged at Cincinnati since its inception.

(Photo: Greater Columbus Convention Center)

“The key questions are ‘Why Move’, and ‘Why Columbus’,” said Larry Little, Vice President and General Manager, AIMExpo. “When we debuted AIMExpo as a new platform for the powersports industry, Orlando proved an outstanding launch location, but the vision was always to visit other geographical centres. Carefully listening to the exhibitor and greater industry community, it was clear that our next step would be to a location more immediately accessible to the retailer population”.
“Why Columbus?” Mike Webster, Senior Vice President, MIC Events, added: “Ideally situated among one of the highest concentrations of dealers anywhere in America, the Greater Columbus Convention Centre is the perfect size for AIMExpo to take over the whole convention centre and to own the town. The city centre location and adjoining hotels will deliver the tight-knit industry experience attendees have also requested. Columbus is a model of urban revitalisation, and the ‘after-show’ atmosphere with hundreds of restaurants, bars and markets, all within just a few blocks, must be seen and experienced to be appreciated”.
Since its inception in 2013, AIMExpo has shown impressive growth each year in Orlando, Florida, with 2016 showing its most significant growth to date for dealer registrations, increasing to 130 percent as at this point last year. With this strategic move in 2017 to the largest logistical region for dealerships, those numbers are sure to grow even higher.
Of this year’s show, the MIC says that “hundreds of exhibitors will showcase the latest the powersports industry has to offer at AIMExpo in Orlando, October 13-16.
“In addition to new product launches, the latest innovations being showcased on the show floor, and an expansive demo space outdoors, AIMExpo attendees will have the opportunity to connect with others throughout the industry at numerous networking events, while dealer attendees can take advantage of the unparalleled curriculum of the Powersports Dealer Seminars presented by Powersports Business during the two trade days of AIMExpo, October 13 and 14”.

www.aimexpousa.com

TecMate

TecMate new product blitz Part II

Internationally respected battery charger, maintenance system and accessory manufacturer TecMate has already unveiled several new products this year, but their “innovation blitz” continues with a whole range of new products and updates to established top-sellers due for unveiling at this year’s INTERMOT Expo at Cologne, Germany, in October, many of which are already available.

Updated USB stick charger delivers 2400mA fast charge; battery protection with LED battery monitor

The OptiMate USB O-105 is a 3300mA dual output USB charger with 90° opposed outlets. Powered through the bike plug (DIN/Ø12mm) that fits the OEM socket on BMW and Triumph motorcycles, battery protection prevents accidental vehicle battery discharge.
The OptiMate USB O-100 is a popular USB ‘stick’ charger that just got better. The updated version delivers 2400mA to fast-charge any USB device. Battery protection shuts down USB charging if the vehicle battery drops down to 45-50%. Once shut down, it becomes a three LED battery monitor. 

A 3300mA dual output USB charger with 90 degree opposed outlets

Among cable offerings in the OptiMate range are the O-67F SAE to DC2.5mm socket and O-67M SAE to DC2.5 plug adapter; the O-111 USB mini charge cable with built-in circuitry that allows a Garmin or Tom Tom GPS to receive charge from any USB charger; the O-112 USB micro charge cable with built-in circuitry that hooks up with Android and Microsoft phones, on board cameras and Bluetooth communication devices; and the O-113 Lightning long and short cable set for iPhone 5/6 and iPad 3, 4 and Air. 

M18 panel-mounted SAE socket and mounting slots on the SAE connector of the O-01 battery lead

SAE to DC2.5mm socket and plug adapter

USB micro charge cable with built-in circuitry that hooks up with Android/MS phones, camera and Bluetooth devices

Long and short Lightning cable set for iPhone 5/6 and iPad 3, 4 and Air

A few more products that are slated for release at INTERMOT include the OptiMate 1 table top version and an update to TecMate’s flagship powersports product, the OptiMate 4 Dual Program. New in cables will be the O-40 M18 panel-mounted SAE socket and mounting slots on the SAE connector of the O-01 battery lead.
Martin Human, TecMate’s CEO, says: “As a company that designs all our own products, we know that new introductions and continuous improvement is essential in keeping us ahead of the game. We have over the years introduced many new concepts into powersport, some of which have become the ‘go to’ products in their sector. It’s not only my opinion, ask our customers, including those who co-brand our OptiMate products”!

TECMATE
www.tecmate.com

Galfer

Oversize rear brake kit for KTM and Husqvarna

Spanish manufacturer Galfer, a leader in friction products, has launched what it describes as a “very powerful” brake kit that upgrades the rear brake performance on KTM and Husqvarna models.

Transforming the rear disc size from 220mm to 240mm, this new kit offers the possibility to increase the rear brake power up to 35% depending on weather conditions and racetrack. The oversize disc is said to reduce overheating and eliminate fade problems.
The new brake kit is available for all KTM bike models from 2004 and between 125cc and 530cc. It is also compatible with Husqvarna models from 2014 between 125cc and 501cc. The new kits are available in ‘Tsunami’ grooved disc version RWS, and in Standard WS version. Both versions include an orange anodised bracket to adjust the brake calliper and a set of sinter metal brake pads.

INDUSTRIAS GALFER
www.galfer.eu

IXON

In&motion equips IXON riders involved in MotoGP with new airbag solution

In June French apparel manufacturer IXON entered into a partnership with In&motion, a wearable smart protection system specialist, that has seen IXON riders in MotoGP start to test a new In&motion airbag system that will, eventually, become available to all riders buying suits from IXON.

Initially developed for the ski market, the In&motion airbag vest was unveiled in 2014, and motorcycle racing has been the second application for its technology that the company has developed.
In&motion has been working on the technology for several years already, with IXON racers contributing to the development of the algorithm, acquiring data in practice and race conditions. Meanwhile IXON and In&motion developed an interface allowing an easy integration of the In&motion airbag in the suits while preserving the pilot comfort.
Several riders, including Bradley Smith of the Monster Yamaha Tech3 team, have been wearing the new airbag solution since the start of the 2016 season under their suit.
Epidemiological data has been captured and used to develop a new airbag design that is able to cover vulnerable and regularly injured body areas – such as the thorax, shoulders, back, etc.

IXON racing service, a major player in several racing championships such as MotoGP and FSBK, as well as riders such as Bradley Smith (MotoGP), Xavier Simeon (Moto2) and Gregory Leblanc (FSBK), have been involved since the conception of the system in order to make sure the fit and ergonomics were all that they needed to be.
The In&motion technology is a multi-purpose platform which has been adapted to motorcycle racing through the development of the detection algorithm to deliver a reliable solution that offers efficient and effective protection.
The technology embedded in the In&box measures movements in real time and is able to identify serious falls to trigger the inflation of the airbag in less than one tenth of a second (100 milliseconds). The company says that “on the one hand, the airbag can absorb the shock energy and on the other hand, it limits trauma to the spine and vital organs.

Special attention was given to the airbag design and its integration in the suits. The In&motion team says that riding comfort must not be compromised in order to improve the protective performance – the two are complementary to each other.
Pierre-François Tissot, co-founder and CMO at In&motion says that “it’s fascinating and exciting to work in such a context of high level motorcycle racing. Riders are used to take into account the technical environment related to their motorbike. Thus, it was easier to have them involved since the very beginning of the new airbag system development, and their feedbacks enabled us to rapidly come to a first suitable solution.
“Several riders already successfully adopted the airbag, and we have seen inflations during heat races and during official races. This way we are able to develop a system that genuinely is specified by users, for users”.
Pierre-Francois told IDN that the product will be on show at INTERMOT and EICMA, and that the next stage in development will be to use the same rider-involved approach to developing the road- going version of the system and plan production scale-up.

IXON
www.ixon.com

In&motion
www.inemotion.com

Orina

High-spec ‘Impact’ CE approved sports gloves

German glove specialist Orina say they are one of the few manufacturers that offers CE approved motorcycle gloves - “meeting the standards of EN13594:2015 requires a lot of work in the development as well as the expertise in this field.  

“Our new ‘Impact’ sports glove has a leather outer shell that is composed of Technalin Gold cowhide leather and goat skin on the back, and abrasion resistant kangaroo leather on the palm.  For a high level of protection, Carbolex protectors are located on the knuckles and on the base of the palm, and the fingers and cuffs are reinforced with SuperFabric”.
Kevlar lining is used on the back, and the ring and little fingers are joined by a bridge, minimising the dislocation risk.  Stretch panels on the fingers and below the knuckles provide for a high freedom of movement. 
Air vents on the knuckle protector and perforation on the fourchettes ensure enough ventilation, and the “Coolmax“ breathable lining keeps the hands cool and transports moisture away from the skin.  Velcro straps on the cuffs and wrists assure the perfect fit and optimal position of the protectors.  Available in different colour combinations and sizes from 7-12.

ORINA BW GmbH
www.orina.de

GIVI

Give way to load capacity with the Sport-T range 

GIVI has developed new semi-rigid bags to provide even more comfort for naked and sport tourers.  

The new GIVI Sport-T range consists of Multilock side bags and two Tanklock models with the promise of “space, technology and comfort for even the most demanding of riders”. The Tanklock bags are available in 4 and 15-litre models, whilst the Multilock bag has a capacity of 22 litres, enabling riders to carry all they need with the safety that is always guaranteed by GIVI.
The materials used for the Sport-T range are “cutting-edge, with anti-UV technology, thermoformed, EVA clad in 900DD and PU polyester, reflective side strips for maximum visibility of the bike in poor light conditions and a cable outlet compatible with the GIVI Power UB charge system”.
The construction techniques and materials used, the excellent load capacity and the high safety standards all make the new GIVI Sport-T range of soft bags fundamental motorbike accessories for lovers of touring who only want the best!

GIVI S.r.l.
www.givi.it

Kappa

Kappa ‘Racer’ thermoformed soft bags

Part of their ‘Racer’ soft bag range, this new thermoformed backpack from Kappa features semi-rigid inserts that hold the shape, a 15 litre capacity, great wearability, and intelligent internal subdivisions all enhance its versatility. A handy rain cover is also included as standard.

Other products in Kappa’s ‘Racer’ pre-formed structure soft bag range include EasyLock side panniers and the compact yet spacious RA313, combining 1840D polyester with thermoformed EVA, featuring two internal compartments (both with a double 180 degree zip), two external webbed side pockets and two adjustable straps.

KAPPA S.r.l.
www.kappamoto.com

Rainers

‘Tiger’ boots and ‘Max’ gloves

Founded in 1988, Rainers are a well-known Alicante, Spain based motorcycle boot and apparel manufacturer with a reputation for design innovation and materials quality.

New products for 2017 from the company include these multi-purpose ‘Tiger’ short boots. Said to be very flexible with a guaranteed waterproof membrane, they come with yellow fluorescent details at the front and back, and protectors at the ankles and shins.

Also seen here, their ‘Max’ is a short glove made from high quality, smooth finish leather with a knuckle protector that has been made from a mixture of carbon and TPU – to make it “highly resistant to impact”, according to the company.

RAINERS SPORTS
www.rainers-sports.com

ACEM

ACEM safety priorities - Technology, Training and Policy

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) staged their 12th annual conference in Brussels in September, with the focus firmly on continuing improvements to the safety of Europe’s riding community.

Stephan Schaller: “In order to achieve lasting safety improvements, further cooperation between all relevant stakeholders is needed”

In a keynote speech that warned against complacency and highlighted opportunity in equal measure, Stephan Schaller, the President of ACEM, IMMA and BMW Motorrad, said that “over the last decade we have witnessed a substantial improvement in motorcycle safety.
“The latest data available from the OECD’s International Road Traffic Accident Database (Organisation for Economic Development/IRTAD) shows that the number of fatal accidents involving powered two-wheeler users decreased from 7,612 to 4,262 between 2000 and 2014, a reduction of 44%. 
“Although these statistics are certainly encouraging, they should not be a reason for complacency. Our industry strongly believes that further efforts are needed to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries”.
“This is why, in addition to manufacturing some of the safest and most advanced vehicles in the world today, we are already preparing our industry for the future. The industry has adopted a Memorandum of Understanding on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), and is working together with the car industry in the Car2Car Communication Consortium”.
Additionally, in 2015 three of ACEM’s members launched the Connected Motorcycle Consortium, a platform open to members in the motorcycle and automotive industry to carry out joint R&D activities in the field of Connected-ITS.
“Motorcycle training is another priority for our industry. Motorcyclists must be able to make better and informed decisions about their training, so that they can ride confidently and safely. For this reason, ACEM has joined with the German Road Safety Council to launch a European Training Quality Label for post-license training (see page 10).
“But in order to achieve lasting safety improvements, further cooperation between all relevant stakeholders is needed. We all have a responsibility for road safety – either as transport providers, road users or road authorities. This is one of the reasons why throughout 2016 ACEM organised a series of thematic workshops in different European countries to identify opportunities to further improve motorcycle safety at national level.
“We must be instrumental in doing what we can to make Europe’s roads better and safer for all of us. Doing so will help society to further reap the benefits that motorcycling brings through quality of life, jobs and services, affordable mobility and reduced traffic congestion levels, to name just some of them”.

Kellermann

Kellermann autumn specials

Aachen, Germany based custom lights and accessories specialist Kellermann (www.kellermann-online.com) – the experts for motorcycle accessories from Aachen, Germany – is launching a “hot autumn” with 20 percent discount and a new website.
The ‘Kellermann Autumn Special’ is kicking of the busy autumn dealer buying season with the upcoming INTERMOT 2016 (8.0/49) and the introduction of new products. Kellermann say they want to celebrate a golden October with their clients by launching the new website and offering an amazing sales promotion!

This autumn special will run until October 31, 2016 and applies to all lighting and lighting electronics products purchased online.

From now on the company website www.kellermann-online.com will present itself in a new look and feel. Kellermann say the new website “puts a strong focus on clarity, information and usability”.
An important component is the new, detailed, clear and growing FAQ data base. It offers immediate support when questions come up and an extensive section on workshop & consulting. Of course the well-known Kellermann service via telephone and e-mail will continue to be available.

SBS

SBS introduces new high-end disc brake pad

Danish manufacturer SBS Friction is introducing a new high-end disc brake pad compound – the SBS EVO Sinter.
The company says that “the bike industry’s ongoing product development with upgrades of engine performance, frame, suspension, tyre technology as well as electronic riding and braking aid systems calls for a new generation of brake components.
“The SBS EVO Sinter meets this challenge. It is a sintered brake pad developed to meet modern bike technology. It will appeal to bikers who usually prefer OEM replacement parts”.
 With EVO Sinter, SBS says it is offering a competitive alternative with comparable performance, riding comfort and durability.
The EVO Sinter pads are manufactured with advanced production technology featuring conductive sintering (direct hot pressing), where the material is heated up by electrical current, resulting in an “excellent and homogeneous brake pad material”.
SBS says it also features advanced friction material bonding technology - the NRS system, which is a mechanical bonding method based on a matrix of steel hooks raised on the backing plate. These mould into the friction material, creating an “indestructible and corrosion safe mechanical bond without any use of adhesives”.
The company says that the operational features and advantages of the new technology is to include a strong initial bite that gives instant brake feeling, easy modulation and powerful in-stop performance, fade-free braking - even under extreme conditions consistent, reliable brake performance throughout the lifetime of the product and durability – importantly, with low disc wear.
The initial launch range of SBS EVO Sinter includes almost 30 part numbers for modern Adventure, Roadster, Sport and touring bikes.

SBS FRICTION
www.sbs-friction.dk

LighTech

ZX-10 gets the ‘LighTech’ treatment

Leading Italian parts and accessory manufacturer LighTech has designed, tested and introduced many new product lines and late-model applications this year, including for the Kawasaki ZX-10R 2016. 

In line with its usual ultra-high quality standards, these products have been designed to both complement and extend the performance of the popular ZX-10R. Aesthetically these new accessories are of the highest design and most parts are available in four choices of colour - Black, Cobalt Blue, Red and Gold.

The range consists of adjustable rearsets with Track-System technology (with a specific additional kit to convert from standard to race-shift), carbon parts, chain adjusters, swingarm spools, crash pads, aluminium engine guards, license plate holder, gas caps, reservoir covers, brake and clutch levers in magnesium, lever guards, Ergal screw kits and more.

Other current models to have received the ‘LighTech’ treatment recently include the XSR 700, the Honda CF1000 ‘Africa Twin’ and the top-selling MT-09 Tracer.

LIGHTECH S.r.l.
www.lightech.it

Niemann+Frey

Niemann+Frey looking for dealers for Gibson MX/Enduro tyres

German distributor Niemann+Frey has been appointed as distributor for the MX, Enduro and FIM Enduro tyre range from Gibson Tyre Technology of the United Kingdom. Niemann+Frey are therefore currently looking for dealers in all European countries, except Gibson’s domestic British market.
The programme is being headed up at Nieman+Frey by long-time motorcycle tyre industry executive Jens Engelking, who said that “we have been selected as the exclusive partner for distribution in continental Europe.

Gibson’s MX 4.1 rear is a mud, intermediate/hard motocross tyre with “a larger radius at the bottom of the block for strength and durability; the lateral block has also been designed with cross link technology to ensure durability and performance”

“With the quality that the Gibson brand brings to the market, and the very attractive price-point they sell at, we are sure that they will be popular with dealers and race teams alike”.
The product line, which uses lightweight polyester in the carcass for “strength and performance”, currently includes MX tyres for most surfaces, such as soft, medium, hard pack and a sand paddle design; plus a patented, made in Europe mousse designed in Italy by Luigi Mazzoni.
The five front and three rear tyres range from general purpose and sand compounds and treads to FIM and non-FIM competition tyres, applications for soft/loose, mud, intermediate and hard/compacted ground, and additional soft and super-soft compounds for extreme Enduro use.

Gibson Speedy Mousse by JJ - the patented design features 8 or 16 circle rings (subject to surface application) that are said to offer higher mousse retention, provide an additional biting point and “improve lap times and keep you moving forwards”

Gibson, who say of themselves that they are “always moving forward, never losing grip”, state that they are a purely off-road tyre company, and that they have extensively researched competitive carcasses in order to develop their technology.
“We work in the same way as modern technology companies”, say Gibson. “We put all of our time and energy into research and development, using the very best technologies and methods in the world”.

NIEMANN+FREY GmbH
www.niemann-frey.de

LeoVince

‘NERO meets the SH 300i

LeoVince has developed a new line of reduced weight, E-approved exhaust systems for the Honda SH 300i ABS.

This latest application for their award-winning ‘NERO’ concept has a stainless steel sleeve, refined with a metallic black paint that is made with ceramic engineering, so it is more resistant to high temperatures and can better withstand mechanical and thermal stress.
The silencer’s shape is the result of precision design to arrive at an accurate, model-specific application “that combines style, finish and performance”. 

Strong, durable brackets made from TIG-welded AISI 304 stainless steel mean the NERO is particularly easy to mount and extends the long service life of the exhaust by improving its resistance to vibrations.
The 100 percent carbon fibre end cup has a signature asymmetric and aggressive cut. For the Honda SH 300i ABS 2016 a specific 100% carbon fibre heat shield is also provided. The LeoVince logo is laser-etched on the exhaust, and the NERO weighs just 4.10 kg against the 8.33 kg of the original fitment thanks to the modern laser technology.

LEOVINCE
www.leovince.com

MAGURA

Master cylinder service kit

MAGURA's 20 mm brake master cylinder (model 288) has been in production since 1988, and many thousands are used as the standard brake activation on many different BMW models, starting with the K1 and continuing with the R 1100 4-valve Boxer models, up to the introduction of the R 1150 range from model year 2002.

Due to the large number of these motorcycles that are still in active use with the 288 brake master, MAGURA is offering a repair kit, which contains all of the parts required to completely rebuild the brake master cylinder. Following many years and kilometres of active service, it is recommended that the master cylinder is completely cleaned and serviced to renew all the sealing elements to ensure that the brake functionality remains at the highest level.

The kit contains a new piston with primary and secondary seals and a new return spring, a piston protective bellows, a reservoir bellows, a small amount of silicone based brake paste, a new gasket washer for the piston retaining bolt and a detailed repair instruction in four European languages.
The kit is suitable for use with K1 1988-1993, K 1100 RS 1991-1996, K 1100 LT 1991-1998, R 850 R 1994-2001, R 850 GS 1998-2000, R 1100 RS 1993-2001, R 1100 GS 1994-1999, R 1100 R 1994-1999 and R 1100 RT 1995-2001.

MAGURA GmbH & Co.
www.magura.com

Pyramid Plastics

The ‘Extenda Fenda’ and (so much) more

Founded in 1986 by industrial designer Ben Bowser, Pyramid Plastics UK Ltd was one of the first companies to start developing a systematic approach to refining the looks of modern street and sports bikes with a range of lightweight, high-strength replacement and custom parts and accessories.

The Pyramid ‘Extenda Fenda’ – over 350 models are available

Best known for its unique ‘Extenda Fenda’ concept, which is still a core product for Pyramid even after all these years, the company also designs and manufactures an extensive range of other products at their facility in Gainsborough, UK,  including huggers, frame infill panels, fairing lower kits, belly pans and more.

‘Extenda Fenda’ provides a low-cost solution to improving standard OE fender designs and geometry

All Pyramid products are bespoke, being uniquely designed and engineered to suit each individual motorcycle.  The company has over 350 models of ‘Extenda Fenda’ available and more than 15,000 items across the whole Pyramid range in inventory at any one time.
Pyramid are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year as one of Europe’s leading “go to” sources for the design and production of bespoke bodywork to enhance, protect and improve the appearance of most popular makes and models of motorcycle.

PYRAMID PLASTICS
www.pyramid-plastics.co.uk

SW-MOTECH

Fairing tale - Tracer 700 with DNA of the MT-07

German luggage and hard parts specialist SW-MOTECH loves to tackle new models and see how well their designs can customise the riding experience, and what new ideas their R&D team can offer for the comfort of the bike.

Options include Blaze luggage solutions for the tank, rear and side, front spoiler, alternator cover guard, and frame slider kits protecting important components.
SW’s Blaze pannier sets are made from robust, durable 1680 Ballistic Nylon and come with spacer bars. Their Trax Adv aluminium pannier system is available in black or silver and seen here in 37 litre capacity, mounted using their EVO side carriers; Quick-Lock Evo ‘tankring’ in fibre reinforced Nylon; front spoiler in black or silver; alternator cover guard in black, with model-specific frame slider kit and more, including side stand, centre stand and bike-specific gear lever.

Founded in 1999, the company employs over employs over 125people at its headquarters in Rauschenberg, Germany, and has a further 125 employees at an additional production plant in Brno, Czech Republic. SW-MOTECH is partner of BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, KTM, Moto Guzzi, Suzuki and Yamaha for development and production of original accessories and delivers its products into more than 60 countries.

SW-MOTECH GmbH & Co KG
www.sw-motech.com

ACEM

ACEM launches new post-license European Training Quality Label

The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers, ACEM, hosted its 12th annual conference in Brussels on September 7th, with the theme of ‘The Safe Ride to the Future’ – based around the issue of motorcycling safety in the European Union.

More than 150 attendees from the motorcycle industry, European and national administrations and users’ organisations and a wide range of stakeholders and media gathered for an event that explored key issues around motorcycle safety, such as the benefits of advanced vehicle technology for powered two-wheelers, the need to ensure that all road users have adequate behaviours on the road, and the importance of inclusive motorcycle safety plans, particularly at national level.
As part of the conference, ACEM and the German Road Safety Council (Deutscher Verkehrssicherheitsrat) presented a new European Training Quality Label for high-quality post-license training programmes.
A motorcycle training scheme run by the Royal Dutch Motorcycle Federation (KNMV) was the first one to receive the certification. 

From left to the right: Antonio Avenoso - ETSC European Transport Safety Council; Alisa Tiganj - European Commission, Cabinet of the European Commissioner for Transport; Jacqueline Lacroix - DVR, German Road Safety Council; Arjan Everink - KNMV, Royal Dutch Motorcyclists Association; Stephan Schaller - ACEM President; Antonio Perlot - ACEM Secretary General

ACEM also organised an exhibition on motorcycle safety technology that featured some of the latest vehicle models launched by the industry, as well as innovative safety devices such as a side view assist system, a wireless airbag jacket and an electronic windscreen.
ACEM, IMMA and BMW Motorrad President Stephan Schaller said that “ACEM members manufacture some of the most advanced motorcycles and mopeds in the world. But it is also important that motorcyclists have good riding skills and a responsible attitude on the road. This is precisely why we are partnering with the German Road Safety Council to promote the best post-license training programmes across Europe.
“Intelligent transport systems (ITS) solutions have also started to make their way into our industry. We expect that in the future vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) technologies will help to reduce the risk of accidents by allowing powered two-wheelers to effectively communicate with other vehicles”.
ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot said: “There are more than 36 million motorcycles and mopeds on Europe’s roads, which help to save time and money for commuters, increase urban traffic fluidity and reduce congestion.
“Our 12th annual conference discussions clearly showed that motorcycling safety is a shared responsibility, and that it is essential that vehicle manufacturers, European and national administrations and users’ organisations work together to achieve lasting safety improvements”.
ACEM is the professional body representing the interests of the L-category vehicle industry in Europe (i.e. mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles, quadricycles). ACEM members include 17 manufacturing companies as well as 17 national associations based in 14 European countries. About 156,300 jobs in the EU depend on the L-category industry.
ACEM manufacturing members are: BMW Motorrad, Bombardier Recreational Products, Ducati Motor Holding, Harley-Davidson, Honda Motors, Kawasaki Motors, KTM Motorrad, Kymco, MV Agusta, Peugeot Scooters, Piaggio Group, Polaris Industries, Renault, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph Motorcycles and Yamaha Motors.
The German Road Safety Council (DVR) was founded in 1969. It coordinates a wide range of activities for its 200 members and develops road safety programmes. Among the key issues that the DVR deals with are traffic engineering, traffic law, awareness-raising and traffic education.

www.acem.eu
www.dvr.de 

Motorcycle registrations in Spain

Motorcycle registrations in Spain +9.66 percent January – August 2016

According to the latest data released by the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain (ANESDOR), the motorcycle market there was up by 14.92 percent in August (10,819 units), having been down by -8.42 percent in July. That is the highest July sales figure since 2009.

The market in Spain is now running at +9.66 percent for the year-to-date at 99,882 units (the highest for the first eight months of the year since before 2009).
Moped registrations in August were +17.23 percent (1,456 units) and are +2.45 percent for the first eight months of the year at 10,990 units.
Total PTW registrations were +12.93 percent in August (12,275 units) and are up for 2016 so far at +8.62 percent for the year-to-date (110,870 units in total).
For the year-to-date Honda remains market share leader in Spain, having sold 17,375 units for a 17.4 percent market share, followed by Yamaha (15,383 units, 15.4 percent share) and Kymco (12,445 units, 12.5 percent share).
The top selling motorcycle in Spain in the first eight months was the Kawasaki Z800 – 2,193 units sold.
Scooter sales are up by +4.0 percent so far this year and represent some 64 percent of the PTW market (63,499 units YTD). Road-going motorcycles are +22.6 percent so far in 2016, accounting for 32.5 percent of the market, and while off-roaders are +21.1 percent YTD, they only account for 3.7 percent of total PTW sales.
ANESDOR General Secretary Jose Maria Riano welcomed the continued growth, but again pointed to the age of the motorcycle fleet in Spain, saying that “the current rate of registrations is insufficient to renew the fleet, whose average age stood at 14.7 years”.
He has again called on central government to address the price disparity that continues to promote re-sale of older units relative to the tax burden carried by new models.

Yamaha’s Yard Built

Yard Built gets a MotoGP ‘Legends’ build by AMD World Champion custom bike builder

Over the last three years Yamaha’s Yard Built programme has gone from strength to strength, working with many of the world’s top custom builders to deliver fresh takes on the Sport Heritage range of motorcycles. 

2014 AMD World Champion Fred “Krugger” Bertrand, left, with Bernard Ansiau

The latest collaboration is with 2014 AMD World Champion custom bike builder Fred ‘Krugger’ Bertrand of Belgium – with a stunning layer of MotoGP history cleverly woven into the custom Yamaha SR400.
Having agreed to collaborate together with Yamaha on a Yard Built project, Fred chose to take inspiration from close friend and fellow Belgian Bernard Ansiau, who just happens to be a MotoGP mechanic for arguably the greatest rider of all time, Valentino Rossi.
Whilst this role alone is enough to place Bernard as one of the most enviable mechanics alive, his CV is also littered with legends, having previously prepared the racing machines for Yamaha greats such as Wayne Rainey, Kenny Roberts, Randy Mamola and Norick Abe, amongst others.
Fred and Bernard agreed to take the humble Yamaha SR400 as the base, and then bring alive the racing spirit of the 1970s in a tribute to the Yamaha TZ machines, and also to mark Bernard’s career.
The little SR400’s engine gets some serious work, most noticeably with a beautiful Aisin 300 supercharger with custom plenum chamber. A one-off stainless steel exhaust system is complemented by an S&S 48mm carburettor in place of the fuel injection system. The beautifully polished front forks have been lowered and balanced with a set of Fox shocks at the rear. Keeping the SR400s rubber side down are a set of Dunlop K81s, inspired by the first tyre to lap the Isle of Man TT course at over 100mph.
There are almost too many custom details to mention as Fred’s obsession with perfection spills across the SR400. Motogadget speedo, switches and grips sit behind a tiny custom cowl at the front above a modified top triple clamp and custom handlebars. The brakes and clutch have been given an upgrade and are by Beringer, adding some power over stock to match the supercharged 400. 

www.krugger.net

Kawasaki

Kawasakis with AI technologies?

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) is moving forward with plans to develop next-generation motorcycles that can “grow along with the rider”. The motorcycles will make use of ICT (Information and Communications Technology), including AI (Artificial Intelligence), to achieve this goal.

According to a release by Kawasaki USA, the motorcycles being developed will use the Emotion Generation Engine and Natural Language Dialogue System - a form of artificial intelligence that “enables man and machine to communicate with technology capable of recognising emotion by the sound of the speaker’s voice – a platform currently being developed by SoftBank Group subsidiary cocoro SB Corp.
The concept of this system would involve the rider being able to talk with the AI-controlled system. This communication between rider and motorcycle will open the door to a new world of unprecedented riding experiences.
Accessing Kawasaki’s bank of analytical chassis and performance data, the system will be able to offer the rider pertinent hints for enhanced riding enjoyment, or relay information as the situation dictates. Through advanced electronic management technology, having the system update machine settings based on the rider’s experience, skill and riding style will also be possible.
This conceptualised system intends to allow a relationship with the rider and motorcycle. The more the rider and motorcycle interact, the stronger the bond, and this communication will allow the motorcycle to develop a unique personality reflecting the individual idiosyncrasies of the rider. This system is intended to give the rider an all-new kind of enjoyment.
Kawasaki says these motorcycles are products of its ‘Rideology’ philosophy - its “rider-centric commitment to pursue all possibilities to ensure that products are fun and rewarding to ride”.