MV Agusta

MV Agusta secures undisclosed investment

Troubled Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta Holding (a major investor in MV Agusta Motor SpA) has announced that it has signed a “binding agreement” (November 17th) for “a capital increase” with New York City based asset manager Black Ocean Group.

MV Agusta CEO, Giovanni Castiglioni

The recapitalisation is one stage in a restructuring plan that the company says “has the aim of consolidating its leadership in the production of high-end motorcycles under the MV AGUSTA brand. The closing of the transaction is expected to coincide with the homologation of [the] MV AGUSTA restructuring plan”.
Black Ocean itself is part of an international holding group, the Ocean Group, an investment group founded by entrepreneurs Oliver Ripley and Timur Sardarov in 2005. Ocean Group’s core business is “creating and building businesses” with interests in a diverse range of sectors, including private aviation, agriculture, real estate, corporate finance, banking and services, technology, media and internet, with offices in New York, London, Geneva and Moscow.
Oliver Ripley, CEO of Black Ocean, said of the investment: “We are very pleased to become part of such an iconic Italian company and excited by the opportunity to build this into a truly international brand and industry leader”.
Giovanni Castiglioni, CEO of MV Agusta, is quoted as saying “I am very pleased that we have reached this agreement with Black Ocean. Beyond the strengthening of our capital, which is important for the future growth of MV Agusta, I strongly believe that Mr Sardarov, Mr Ripley and their global team will be able to contribute with their entrepreneurial and managerial skills in the consolidation of MV Agusta as a key player in the super premium motorcycle market”.

The details of the agreement have not been disclosed, with no indication as to how this will affect the 25 percent equity position that AMG Mercedes has in MV Agusta, or Castiglioni’s stated aim of disengaging with AMG – a relationship that he was also fulsome about when it was announced, but which has turned sour in the past year.
In March 2016 it was announced that the company had filed a "Composition" with its creditors – an Italian variation on the theme of what is known in the United States as a Chapter 11 creditor protection filing.
The intention was to allow the company some time in which to restructure its finances - in MV Agustas' case that meant dealing with the 40m euro of debt that was reported on its books at that stage. The filing gave MV Agusta to the end of 2016 to renegotiate its finances, granting them an interim 'payment holiday'.
The company said that in 2015 it achieved 100m euro in sales (some +30 percent up on 2014), with turnover growing from 30m euro in just five years. However, plagued by back orders, MV has had to slow down production from the 8,000 plus units at its peak and accept that its ambitions to see that number grow into the 15,000 to 20,000 bracket were unrealistic.
The restructuring plan will need to see the rationalisation of its 20 plus over-populated offer, massively reduce its 15 percent of turnover R&D spend, generate sufficient capital to allow it to service its debt burden, fund ongoing production and put it in a position to buy back the 25 percent stake it sold to AMG Mercedes for 30m in 2014.
Indeed, the company will also need to repay a 15m loan it took from a consortium of Italian banks in late 2014 to top up its cash flow (having burned through the AMG cash and the $20m dowry Harley-Davidson left it with in order to be able to tackle the AMG 25 percent issue). That loan was conditional on AMG's shareholding not being reduced below 20 percent without it being first repaid in full.

www.mvagusta.it

Modeka

Modeka 70th anniversary

German apparel specialist Modeka is celebrating its 70th anniversary, and to mark the occasion the company will introduce a jubilee jacket at INTERMOT.

Called 'August 70' in honour of August Oberkoenig, who founded the company 70 years ago in 1946, the vintage look jacket is made from washed, used-look buffalo leather with perforated leather for ventilation at the chest, top of the arms and back.
Additional features include removable CE protectors at the shoulders and elbows and a loop for attaching to jeans; sizes S to 5XL. Available from October 2016.

MODEKA INTERNATIONAL GmbH
www.modeka.de

Forcefield

Forcefield ‘Tornado Advance’

Comfort on a motorcycle is of paramount importance. Being warm, comfortable and protected not only makes the ride more enjoyable, but also helps concentration and aids awareness when needed most. The aim is to make sure you can move, with little restriction or discomfort.
Forcefield says that the technical approach they have used for the design, construction and materials of their ‘Tornado Advance’ range has resulted in a product that is able to work at its best while keeping the rider warm, dry and comfortable.
Tornado Advance “is a range that keeps the wind out and has thermal properties - the perfect combination as a mid-layer”. Defender fabric (forward facing) is windproof, water resistant and breathable, it has a water resistant rating of 8000mm, so will help keep the rider dry, and there is also a micro fleece lining.
The material used to complement Defender is thermal and breathable Thermolite, which is made with engineered hollow-core fibres that trap air for greater insulation; it is said to dry 20% faster than other thermal materials and 50% faster than cotton. Thermolite is also anti-bacterial, stopping the development of bacteria caused by perspiration.

FORCEFIELD BODY ARMOUR
www.forcefieldbodyarmour.com

Exan

Exan XSR 700 options

Italian exhaust manufacturer Exan has a range of exhaust options available for Yamaha’s well received 689cc twin cylinder XSR 700.
Their Black X-Evo is a curved trapezoidal carbon with “sinuous lines for a cool and aggressive look with all the details typical of artisan production”.

The X-Black Ages style seems to “break” with the decidedly vintage styling of the XSR 700, “but the apparent contrast immediately creates an irresistible charm and mix”; available in two different materials - stainless steel plain, satin and black.
Decidedly more traditional, the ‘Classic’ line of round silencers with black stainless steel end caps and retro-style spout “perfectly complements the lines of the XSR 700”.
 The Taper type II has a traditional line – a “timeless product that is a natural for the XSR 700. The Conical type II is available in stainless steel clear and black”.
Extremely light, regardless of the model and the material chosen, these Exan options promise “improved driveability thanks to the savings in weight, and with an extraordinary power delivery at all engine speeds”. All these Exan muffler designs have a removable dB killer.

EXAN
www.exan.it

SHAD

SHAD luggage options

Spanish luggage specialist SHAD has a wide range of accessories to increase the loading space of BMW’s popular S 1000 XR and other popular 2016 models – all sold with mounting plate and hardware.

Their SH49 is described as the most functional top case in SHAD’s high-end range, holding up to two full-face helmets, has a reinforced structure, Smart lock system and a 3-position hermetic closure. Options include ergonomic backrest and brake light.
SHAD say their SH48 is a “reference in design an innovation, a high-end case with an elegant and avant-garde shape, which has the highest technical performance and materials of the highest quality”. Said to be the lightest case of its class, it has a dual helmet 48 litre capacity, Smart lock system, 3-position pressure closure and retractile automatic handle. For the first time a case offers two colour options for the side reinforcements: dark grey or new titanium.
Their popular SH36 side case has a new integrated 3P side mounting system and rigid frame. The E-22 semi-rigid, extendable tank bag has enough capacity to hold a full-face helmet, a waterproof cover for mobile phone/tablet and a device recharge space. It is attached with a universal tank base, has a 16L to 22L capacity and an optional universal USB motorcycle adapter.

NAD SL
www.shad.es

Richa

New Richa jackets, ‘Tracer Evo’ boots and ‘Extreme’ gloves

Richa has been celebrating its 60th anniversary this year with a new product launch blitz for 2016, massively updating and adding to their range.
Their CE-approved leather (with textile inserts) racing style, ‘Tracer Evo’ boots feature a waterproof Hipora membrane, plastic ankle and heel protection and a rubber racing sole for grip.

The ‘Airstream’ jacket is made from 600D polycordura with abrasion resistant ripstop. It has a comfortable polymesh lining, detachable PU coated taffeta membrane and full mesh ventilation panels on the sleeves and side. Featuring D30 armour at the elbows and shoulders and a CE Level 1 approved back protector as standard, there’s a thermo removable liner and membrane, waist adjustment through a press button system, plus retro-reflective technology on the upper arms, chest and back. 

Available for both men and women, Richa’s ‘Daytona’ leather jacket is made from high-quality buffalo leather with a classic cotton lining. It has D30 protection at the elbows and shoulders and a back protector as standard. It features a removable polyester thermo liner, short connection zipper for trousers, waist adjustment, a soft Neoprene collar and adjustable cuff width. 

Finally, their ‘Extreme’ Gore-Tex gloves are made from goat and cow leather with Nyspan and Neoprene and have a breathable windproof and waterproof insert. There are retro reflex prints for extra visibility, double Velcro wrist closures, an extra long cuff and hard TPU knuckle, finger and palm protectors. 

RICHA NV
www.richa.be

Stylmartin

Lady Rock boots

First shown as a prototype at EICMA in 2015, 'Lady Rock' was mainly aimed at the pillion passenger looking for a fashionable ankle boot. The cropped calf leather upper with a leopard print pattern caught the eye of the female audience, and their interest and enthusiasm convinced Stylmartin to put it into production.
Although a passenger-specific boot does not require many of the heavy duty rider boot protective features, this is still a high-spec boot that retains certain signature elements such as the Vibram sole with its anti-slip grip and a breathable and waterproof lining. Fastening is by laces; the removable/changeable footbed is made from breathable, anatomically designed microfibre.

STYLMARTIN
www.stylmartin.it

Touratech

Desierto IV fairing

Touratech has updated its proven Desierto fairing programme with a Desierto IV fairing for the BMW R1200 GS/Adventure (LC) - “reinterpreting the concept of distinctive looks and maximum riding comfort”.
The characteristic Desierto fairing design sweeps above the headlight, and the distinctive wedge-shaped side sections “create a seamless link between fairing and tank”. The side sections are available in black, grey or white. The windscreen itself is at a steeper angle than the original, which is said to give a superior ride feel, enhancing the sense of space, and at the same time optimising wind protection without adding turbulence at helmet level. The standard adjustment configurations are used in the new Desierto design, so the height and angle of the windscreen can be modified as required while riding.
Touratech offers four different windscreens for the Desierto IV, a small version that is visibly lower than the original GS screen, providing greater ventilation and intended for more sporty riding, and a significantly higher screen for touring and travelling. Both are available clear or tinted.

TOURATECH AG
www.touratech.com

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italian motorcycle registrations +18.62 percent for the first nine months of 2016

The latest data released by the Italian motorcycle industry trade association (ANCMA, Milan) shows new motorcycle registrations for the first nine months of 2016 up by +18.62 percent at 65,409 units for the year-to-date. In September, the market was worth 5,191 new motorcycles, +13.89 percent.

Total PTW registrations were +11.98 percent (165,717 units) for the first nine months of 2016.
The scooter market in Italy was up by +8.04 percent for the first nine months of the year at 100,308 units.
The top selling motorcycles in Italy so far this year were the BMW R 1200 GS (23,068 units), the Honda ‘Africa Twin’ (2,612 units), Honda’s NC 750 X (2,149 units) and Ducati’s Scrambler 800 (2,045 units).
In unit number terms, the largest market sector in Italy in the first nine months of the year was the ‘Naked’ style bike market, which at 23,348 units was up by +21.08 percent over 2015, followed by the Enduro market (21,402 units, +28.42 percent over 2015). Supermotard models are +37.50 percent on low volumes (2,453 units); tourers are up by +2.93 percent (7,767 units).

Honda and Yamaha

Honda and Yamaha in home market scooter collaboration

Honda and Yamaha have moved to confirm speculation that they have started discussions that may lead to a possible business alliance in the Japanese market in the Class-1 category, which include scooters with a 50cc engine or electric motor.

The diversification of the types of short-range transportation, including power-assisted bicycles and mini-vehicles, has meant that the market for the Class-1 category vehicles in Japan has been shrinking in recent years. Moreover, motorcycle manufacturers are facing various challenges, including compliance with safety standards and emissions regulations, that will become more stringent in future years, as well as the pursuit of product electrification.
It is under these circumstances that Honda and Yamaha arrived at a common understanding that cooperation is necessary to address these challenges for the future, and based on this understanding, the two companies will strive to realize collaboration in the Japanese market in the Class-1 category.
The Road Vehicles Act of Japan defines the Class-1 category as “vehicles equipped with two or more wheels and an engine with total displacement of 50 cc or less, or an electric motor with rated output of 0.60 kW or less”.
The key plans under discussion include supplying 50 cc scooter models as an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). With a target timetable of before the end of 2018, Honda would begin supplying 50 cc scooter models to Yamaha as an OEM that are developed based on the Honda TACT and Giorno 50 cc scooter models Honda currently produces and sells in Japan. Yamaha will sell these models as corresponding models of the Yamaha JOG and Vino.
Honda and Yamaha are currently developing, producing and selling 50 cc business scooter models for the Japanese market, namely the Honda BENLY and Yamaha GEAR, respectively. The two companies will look at the feasibility of the joint development and OEM supply from Honda to Yamaha of a next-generation version of these business scooter models.
For the purpose of further popularizing electric motorcycles mainly in the Class-1 category in Japan, the two companies will look into possible collaboration in the area of establishing the foundation necessary to address various issues relevant to electric motorcycles such as range, charging time, performance and cost.
By broadly sharing the achievement of such collaboration with other motorcycle manufacturers and relevant industries in the form of proposals, the two companies will strive to further facilitate the electrification of motorcycle products.
Shinji Aoyama, Operating Officer and Director, Honda Motor Co. Ltd., said: “Through this collaboration with Yamaha, we will continue to offer Class-1 category products that go beyond the expectations of our customers. With that, we will devote all of our efforts to revitalize the motorcycle market in Japan and establish a market environment that enables the popularization of electric motorcycles at the earliest possible timing”.
Katsuaki Watanabe, Managing Executive Officer and Director, Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd., said: “We believe that our collaborative activities, which will start with an OEM alliance, will go beyond the framework of a mere product supply alliance and carve out a future motorcycle culture in Japan”.

Parts Europe

EC-approved slip-on for the Africa Twin

Parts Europe is an international distributor for the Italian made Spark exhausts brand. Seen here is their EC-approved slip-on muffler for the Honda CRF 1000L 'Africa Twin'. Designed with a 'Dakar' style shape, it is described as delivering a deep sound and is available in four materials.
PARTS EUROPE, Germany, www.partseurope.eu

Nolan Group

New full-face off-roader from X-Lite

Nolan has added a new off-road full-face helmet design to its X-Lite programme – their X-502 – that utilises their proprietary NERS (Nolan Emergency Release) emergency cheek pad removal system, which allows emergency responders to remove the cheek pads from the helmet while it is still being worn.

Described as being “characterised by an aggressive design and a wealth of technical characteristics”, its compact volume (thanks to the availability of two outer shell sizes, ultra-wide visor and efficient RAF (Racing Air Flow) ventilation system) brings a level of technical specification to full-face off-road helmet design that is normally associated with road bike helmet technology.
Additional features include a peak with adjustable, extended additional peak, Carbon Fitting Racing Experience inner comfort padding (with an innovative net construction), compatibility with neck braces and action cameras and a Camel Bag water system are said to “make the X-502 one of the reference points for the most demanding off-road enthusiasts”.

NOLAN GROUP
www.nolan

Bonamici Racing

Honda CBR 650F/R/CB 650F rearset

 

Italian parts and accessory manufacturer Bonamici Racing is offering these new rearset kit designs for the new Honda CBR 650F/R/CB 650F ’14-’16. CNC-machined from Ergal billet aluminium, they are described as “robust and effective, adjustable in seven positions, with the use of bearings to completely eliminate the friction on the levers, and a spring for the assisted return of the rear brake lever”. Compatible with standard or reverse mode shifting set-ups, matching accessories are also available. BONAMICI RACING, Italy, www.bonamiciracing.it

Jetprime

Sportsbike handlebar switches

Modena, Italy based Jetprime has released details of a complete range of ‘Plug & Play’ handlebar switches for most popular sportsbike makes and models.
Suitable for race or road use, they are designed and manufactured in-house by Jetprime, who are a chosen technology partner to the Althea BMW Racing Team in the World Superbike Championship and the FIM Superstock 1000 Cup.

The company says that all their handlebar switches are interchangeable with the factory originals and that they are 100 percent modification-free installs. Each unit is described as ‘Plug & Play’ and specific to each bike.
Each button control unit has been machined from a solid billet of 7075 aluminium and fitted with IP67 military standard switches to ensure everything is watertight and to guarantee use for more than 1,000,000 working cycles.
They are available in either a left-hand version (5 or 7 buttons) or a right-hand version (3 buttons) for road or race use for all Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, MV Agusta and Yamaha sportsbike models, as well as for selected Ducati road bike models (Monster, Hypermotard and Multistrada).

JETPRIME
www.jetprime.it

HP Corse

EvoXtreme for Multistrada

 

This is Italian exhaust manufacturer HP Corse’s EvoXtreme silencer for the Ducati Multistrada 1200. Available in black or silver steel with three-dimensional carbon fibre end caps for the slash-cut silencer body, the irregular shape is made possible by using traditional, weld-free hand-craftsmanship techniques to create a power-boosting, lightweight silencer, with a slim profile that reduces the overall width of the bike. HP CORSE, Italy, www.hpcorse.com

AXO

Kalahari jacket and Aragon boots

New from AXO, the ‘Kalahari’ jacket is made from high-tenacity polyester with tough, abrasion- resistant Ballistic fabric inserts.

Features include an anti-bacterial, anti-sweat, perforated polyester lining, anti-bacterial, anti-sweat soft inner collar, ‘WaterTech’ removable membrane and ‘ThermoLite’ removable quilting.
There are vents on chest, arms and back, a double collar locking system, large internal and external pockets, H.V. reflective inserts, elastic ribbing on the elbows and a locking system to attach trousers.

Also shown here, their ‘Aragon’ boots are CE-certified (EN 13634:2002) and have a water resistant leather upper with front and back anti-abrasion inserts and polyurethane shin and calf guards.
Features include a metal anti-shock heel insert, ankle support hinge system, removable and interchangeable plastic shin slider, anti-torsion brace at the back, zipless, patented micrometric BOA closure system and titanium slider.

AXO
www.axosport.com

EU motorcycle registrations

EU motorcycle registrations +7.2 percent for first nine months of 2016

According to the latest data gathered by ACEM, the Brussels based international motorcycle trade association, more than 1 million motorcycles and mopeds were registered in the EU in Q3 2016 (+4.4% year-on-year). France remains the largest market for powered two and powered three- wheelers in Europe. At least 1,051,257 powered two and three-wheelers were registered during the first three quarters of 2016 in the EU (compared to 1,006,684 vehicles registered during the same period of 2015). 

PTW registrations performed positively in all the key European markets including Italy (+10.3%, 186,464 units), Spain (+9.6%, 127,717 units), UK (+7.3%, 101,408 units), Germany (+2.5%, 168,418 units) and France (+1.1%, 198,513 units).
However, registrations of higher priced, larger displacement machines continue to out-perform mopeds and lower-price smaller displacement units. Cumulative motorcycle registrations grew by +7.2% during the first three quarters of 2016 on a year-on-year basis. A total of 802,767 motorcycles were registered between January and September 2016, against 749,128 during the same period of 2015.
Year-on-year motorcycle registrations increased in all the largest European markets, including Italy (+12%, 160,602 units), Spain (+10.2%, 114,988 units), UK (+8.7%, 94,807 units), Germany (+4.5%, 143,367 units) and France (+2.1%, 129,835 units).
At least 248,490 mopeds were registered during the first nine months of 2016 in the EU, whilst 257,556 had been registered during the same period of 2015. This represents a decrease of -3.5%. Moped registrations increased in Spain (+5%, 12,729 units) and the Netherlands (+2.8%, 55,363 units). They remained stable in Austria (-0.2%, 12,366 units) and France (-0.8%, 58,040 units), but declined in Italy (-2.1%, 19,862 units) and Poland (-14.2%, 21,432 units).

ACEM Secretary General Antonio Perlot said: “These third quarter figures clearly show that the powered two and three-wheeler sector continues to recover from the acute economic crisis that started in 2008. We are still far away from the 2.4 million registrations of 2007, but we are optimistic about the future.
“As the European economy continues to emerge from its long slumber, European citizens will increasingly look for convenient solutions that meet both their mobility and leisure needs”.
This analysis is based on information available up to 19 October 2016. At that time motorcycle and moped data for the following countries was not available: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, Malta, Romania and Slovenia. Moped data for Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Malta, Slovakia and Sweden was not available.
 
www.acem.eu

Polaris

Polaris say Q3 2016 Victory and Indian unit sales up by “high single digits percent” in a down market
 
Polaris Industries say that North American consumer retail demand for Victory and Indian models increased high single digits percent during the 2016 third quarter, with Indian Motorcycle and Victory increasing low-teens percent combined, while overall motorcycle industry retail sales 900cc and above were down high single digits percent in the 2016 third quarter. 

Product availability for all three motorcycle brands remained “adequate” throughout the quarter with both the Company’s Spirit Lake, Iowa motorcycle plant and the new Slingshot production line in Huntsville, Alabama, producing at retail demand levels.
However, the company reported third Motorcycle segment sales revenues, including its respective PG&A sales, down by -3 percent in the 2016 third quarter to $183.2 million. Victory and Indian Motorcycle reported increased vehicle sales revenue growth, while Slingshot sales revenue was down during the quarter due to shipment timing.
Gross profit in the Motorcycle segment decreased by -26 percent to $21.2 million, or 11.6 percent of sales in the third quarter of 2016, compared to $28.4 million, or 15.1 percent of sales, in the third quarter of 2015 – apparently due to higher warranty expense related to recent safety and service bulletins, primarily for Slingshot.
“Our third quarter results, while discouraging, were in line with our revised guidance and reflect our ongoing execution of the RZR recalls and significant quality and safety improvement initiatives,” said Scott Wine, Polaris’ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
“In addition to these recall challenges, we continued to face a weak overall powersports industry, but were encouraged by continued retail strength for Indian and our overall motorcycle business, and the return to growth for side-by-sides in September,” he commented.
“We remain committed to improving our fundamentals and executing our long-term strategy to be the ‘Best in Powersports, Plus’. Our recent announcement to acquire Transamerican Auto Parts, a $740 million, vertically integrated, multi-channel leader in the $10+ billion Jeep and truck aftermarket accessory space, is consistent with our strategy and exciting due to its growth potential. “We are making the necessary investments, both internally and externally, to realize the true potential of our organization. Along with improvements in product safety and quality, we are using Huntsville and our go to market Retail Flow Management (“RFM”) process to establish Lean as a competitive advantage, we are bringing technology to the forefront of our industry with ‘Ride Command’, and we are working to transform the customer experience, from purchase to service, to enhance profitability.
“This commitment to improving our execution and our overall performance will drive a steadier cadence of growth and profitability in the future.”
Third quarter net income was $32.3 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to $155.2 million, or $2.30 per diluted share reported in the third quarter of 2015.
Sales for the third quarter of 2016 totaled $1,185.1 million, down -19 percent from last year’s third quarter sales of $1,456.0 million.
Compared to the $535.699 m in motorcycle segment sales revenue reported for the first nine months of the 2015 financial year, motorcycle segment sales revenues are reported up by +13 percent for the first nine months of 2016 at $602.762 m.
Total Polaris sales revenues were down by -19 percent at $ 1,185.067m for the third quarter (compared to $ 1,456.000m for the year ago quarter) and -19 percent at $ 3,298.840m for the first nine months of 2016 (compared with $ 3,613.672m for the first nine months of 2015.
Total gross profit across Polaris’ full range of activities was -37 percent for the third quarter at $ 260.770m (22 percent of sales) compared to $ 415.623 for the year ago quarter (28.5 percent of sales); and was -23 percent for the first nine months of 2016 at $ 792.851m (24 percent of sales) compared to$ 1,028.768m for the year ago period (28.5 percent of sales).
Off-Road Vehicle (“ORV”) and Snowmobile segment sales revenue, including its respective PG&A sales, decreased -23 percent from the third quarter of 2015 to $923.4 million.
Polaris’ “Global Adjacent Markets” segment sales along with its respective PG&A sales, increased six percent to $78.5 million in the 2016 third quarter compared to the 2015 third quarter.
Parts, Garments and Accessories (“PG&A”) sales, which are included in each of the three respective reporting segments, declined one percent during the 2016 third quarter to $224.4 million, driven by lower retail sales.
International sales to customers outside of North America totaled $141.0 million for the third quarter of 2016, including PG&A, a decrease of eight percent from the same period in 2015. International sales on a constant currency basis were down seven percent in the 2016 third quarter.
Operating expenses increased 16 percent to $222.6 million, or 18.8 percent of sales, for the third quarter of 2016, compared to $192.0 million, or 13.2 percent of sales, for the third quarter of 2015.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $426.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, compared to $464.0 million for the same period in 2015. Total debt for the quarter was $436.7 million. The Company’s debt-to-total capital ratio was 32 percent at September 30, 2016, compared to 25 percent a year ago. Cash and cash equivalents were $122.7 million at September 30, 2016, down from $225.3 million for the same period in 2015.
During the third quarter 2016, the Company repurchased and retired 111,000 shares of its common stock for $10.5 million. As of September 30, 2016, the Company currently has authorization from its Board of Directors to repurchase up to an additional 8.6 million shares of Polaris stock.
For the full year 2016, the Company says its Motorcycle segment unit sales are forecast to be up low-single digits percent.

Federal-Mogu

Champion plugs and filters

In addition to being the owner and manufacturer of the famous Ferodo brand of brake pads, Federal-Mogul also owns the equally well known Champion filters and spark plugs brand.

Champion say its motorcycle filters are precision-engineered to match or exceed OE standards. Made from thicker, resin impregnated paper, Champion state that its precision manufacturing and exacting quality control standards result in durable filters with virtually zero defects. 

Independent tests - ISO 4548 for oil filters and ISO 5011 for air filters – show that the highly efficient filters outperform the competition both on and off the road.
As well as being OE to leading manufacturers, Champion offers a comprehensive range for the motorcycle aftermarket, and the high performance Powersport range is able to provide increased power.

FEDERAL-MOGUL SRL, Racing & Motorcycle Division
www.ferodoracing.com
www.championpowersports.eu

Rukka

‘Energater’ suit

Rukka's new two-part adventure style suit "offers perfect weather protection, safety and high wear comfort", according to the company.

With its Gore-Tex three-layer laminate, it is said to be extremely resilient and completely waterproof. In addition, the Energater suit offers very high abrasion resistance thanks to Armacor reinforcements. More safety is provided by the comfortable Rukka D3O Air protectors, tested to the latest CE standards, which feature progressive energy absorption at the time of an impact.
Features include stretch inserts, waist belt adjustable on the sides, removable, elastic Gore-Tex storm collar and double cuffs, six pockets, a removable thermal lining with temperature-regulating Outlast and long ventilation openings.
The Energater trousers have removable braces and a long connecting zipper. They also feature waterproof pockets, a thermal lining with Outlast and ventilation zippers. In addition, the seat area is equipped with the climate-regulating Air Cushion on the inside, while the outside has Antiglide-Keprotec. Long zippers at the ends of the legs mean the trousers can also be worn over large Enduro boots, as well as inside them.
Jacket and trousers come in black with reflective stripes in light grey, cobalt blue or neon yellow.

L-FASHION GROUP Oy
www.rukka.com

SHAD

Expandable side bags

Designed by the company at their Barcelona headquarters, these new SHAD side cases (SL58 - from their touring bags range) are a line of ergonomically oval shaped bags made from high quality, durable materials - the shape is said to offer improved aerodynamics and loading capacity. The main and the side compartments are made from polyester with glove friendly zips and protected with a waterproof lining with reflective detailing. They include a padded handle and two straps with a buckle for volume adjustment. Mounting is either by Velcro straps or the new "Side Bag Holder" metallic system developed by SHAD. Capacity is 46L, expandable up to 58L; optional thermal protector available.
SHAD/NAD S.L., Spain, www.shad.es

Exan

X-Black oval for Ninja 300

Italian exhaust manufacturer Exan is offering its popular and powerful X-Black exhaust for the two-cylinder Ninja 300 with diamond shaped carbon end cap. Equipped with a removable db killer, it is available in brushed stainless steel clear, satin stainless steel black, carbon and titanium, and is said to be lighter than the stock exhaust and provides increased power at all rev bands.
EXAN, Italy, www.exan.it

Rizoma

Rizoma options for 2016 Speed Twin

The naked styling of Triumph’s 2016 Speed Twin is a natural for those who want to add value and attend to all those little details that the factory price-point has left less finished or lacking in ergonomic finesse.

Among the first of Europe’s leading custom parts and accessory specialists to show what they can do with the new liquid-cooled 900cc Bonneville is Italian specialist Rizoma.
Products on offer in model-specific or universal fit include a choice of mirror adapters, including for their new ‘Sguardo’ design indicators, four choices of Ride by Wire grip designs, patented ProGuard System lever protectors, handlebar caps, 22mm (1 1/8”) TUV approved tapered billet aluminium handlebars (available in a choice of colours), or clip-on bar kits for 41mm forks (as seen here) that can be installed with a choice of custom risers, and a wide choice of front brake fluid reservoirs, mirrors, indicators, rider and passenger pegs, headlight, fender and hole plug and cover kits.

RIZOMA
www.rizoma.com

Brembo

14 RCS master cylinder

Brembo say that their new 14 RCS master cylinder “allows riders to choose between heavy or gradual braking depending on road conditions, personal taste and the overall feel of the motorcycle”.

Featuring a 14mm diameter floating piston, it can be used on most single disc braking systems with 2-piston fixed or floating calipers, and a micro-switch kit for brake light actuation and a special connection fitting for the hydraulic hose mean it can also be used on the most popular scooter models with single 2-piston fixed caliper, or floating, with single disc.
The RCS system (Ratio Click System) is the “pioneering adjustment that enables the rider to achieve his ideal riding style. With the 14 RCS pump it is like having two master cylinders in one product. The 14x18mm enables more gradual braking and requires a longer lever stroke, while the 14x20 mm generates a more classic road riding feeling.
“However, the configuration can be changed in a matter of seconds by setting the ratio distance between values of “18” or “20” by simply turning the regulator on the front face of the steering arm 180 degrees with a screwdriver. The cam system (red marking when set to 18 mm, black marking when set to 20 mm) adjusts the distance between the pivot point and mounting point on the lever pushrod by 2mm. This redistributes the braking force without altering performance.”

BREMBO SPA
www.brembo.com

Cellular Italia

Interphone updates intercom range

Motorcycle intercom specialist Interphone has launched three brand new and improved units - Tour, Urban and Sport. Each Bluetooth 4.2. unit features new quick-touch buttons, improved functionality, usability and ease of installation, increased battery life and reduced charging time. 

The Interphone Tour is the top-of-the-range product in the new line, aimed at riders taking longer, group journeys. Using ‘Genius Pairing’, the Tour can pair up to four motorcyclists simply by turning on one device, reaching a maximum of 1.5km.
Compatible with all intercom, GPS and smartphone devices fitted with Bluetooth technology, the FM Mix function makes it possible to communicate in intercom mode and listen to music in the background at the same time.
The Interphone smartphone app for iOS and Android allows intercom configuration and control directly from the rider’s phone; the VOX feature allows intercom voice activation and the Automatic Reconnection feature ensures that communication is restored if lost. It is waterproof and features a windproof microphone and noise-dependent volume control. Compatible with the majority of helmet brands and incorporating a dual volume control for modular and open face models, it has a battery life of 20 hours, a standby time of 1000 hours, and it can be recharged rapidly thanks to Fast Charge technology. 

The Interphone Sport is dedicated to everyone who likes to stay connected while riding. The user can chat to up to four riding companions within a 1km range, make and receive calls or listen to music via their smartphone’s Bluetooth connection or the in-built FM radio.
Compatible with any Bluetooth intercom on the market and the majority of helmet brands, it can be voice activated (VOX) or controlled via the smartphone app and automatically reconnects if the rider gets cut off from the other motorcycles - talk time is 15 hours, standby 1000 hours. 

The Interphone Urban is an easy-to-use, waterproof design for city use – it can make and receive calls, navigate via a Bluetooth-connected GPS, chat with a pillion rider or listen to music from a smartphone or the in-built FM radio. It is compatible with the majority of helmet brands, with a talk time of 12 hours, a standby time of 1000 hours and a charging time of two hours. It can also be controlled via the smartphone app for iOS and Android.

CELLULAR ITALIA S.P.A.
www.cellularline.com

BMC

BMC air filters

Seen here for the 2016/2017 Kawasaki ZX-10R and Honda CRF 1000 L ‘Africa Twin’, Italian company BMC says their cotton air filters can be washed, re-oiled and re-used. 

Kawasaki ZX-10R

Based near Bologna, Italy, BMC was founded in 1973 as an automotive parts distribution business by Gaetano Bergami. The company started making filters in 1999 and is now an international business with branches in Germany, China and India, along with over 94 distributors all over the world. 

Honda CRF 1000 L ‘Africa Twin’

BMC air filters are made using a single moulding system with no welded joints for maximum durability and optimum airbox adhesion. All BMC filters are pre-oiled and can be washed and regenerated using BMC's cleaning kit.
The company offers a choice of street and racing filters, with both designs offering increased filter area for increased air flow – meaning improved performance and fuel efficiency. The company claims 98.5 percent filtration, trapping impurities as small as 7 micron.

BMC S.r.l.
www.bmcairfilters.com