Italian new motorcycle registrations

Italy – new motorcycle registrations +3.09 percent for first five months of 2017

According to the latest data released by ANCMA (the Milan based motorcycle industry trade association for Italy), new motorcycle registrations were up by + 12.32 percent in April (11,928 units), having been approximately “flat” for April 2017 at +0.13 percent (9,928 units), they are now running at +3.09 percent for the year-to-date at 42,230 units.

Allowing for mopeds and low cc scooters, total PTW registrations in Italy were +13.91 percent in May (28,630 units), having been -9.85 percent in April (21,494 units) and are now running at +2.37 percent (95,612 units) for the first five months of the year.
Scooter sales are +1.82 percent for the period January to May inclusive, at 53,409 units; Honda’s SH 150/300/1256 variants are the top sellers (14,225 units between them); followed by Piaggio’s Beverly 300 ABS (3,406 units), the Yamaha TMAX 500 (2,093 units) and the 350 non-ABS Beverly (1,930 units); Yamaha sold 1,198 units of the 300 TMAX variant and Honda sold 1,168 units of their X-ADV 750.
The top selling motorcycles in Italy so far in 2017 are BMW’s R 1200 GS (2,029 units); Honda’s CRF 1000 ‘Africa Twin’ (1,641 units); Yamaha’s MT-09 ‘Tracer’ (1,335 units); Honda’s NC 750 X (1,334 units); the Ducati Scrambler 800 (1,218 units); and BMW’s R 1200 GS ‘Adventure (1,213 units).
In sector growth terms, the Touring (+13.36 percent, 6,433 units) and ‘Naked’ (the largest sector by style, +10.88 percent, 15,429 units) markets are showing the strongest growth; Enduro models, the second largest in Italy by styling sector, were -4.56 percent (13,300 units) for the year-to-date, with sportsbike models +6.83 percent (2,293 units).
The 126-200cc sector has seen strongest growth in power-band terms so far this year at +14.98 percent (11,798 units); with the 201-250cc market down by -50.95 percent (1,490 units). The 601-750cc market is +7.89 percent (10,643 units YTD), the 751-1000cc market is +3.71 percent (13,769 units) and the over 1000cc market is +4.54 percent YTD (12,298 units). The biggest market in Italy in displacement terms remains the 251-500cc market (22,645 units, +4.08 percent YTD).
For 2016 motorcycle registrations in Italy were +21.49 percent at 75,936 units, a third straight year of growth; total PTW registrations were +13.26 percent for the full year at 193,814 units – also a third straight year of growth (the Italian market having fallen to a low of 153,933 total PTW registrations in 2013). Scooter registrations were +117.88 percent for 2016 at 117,814 units.

Ducati

Ducati turnover and sales continue to grow

The year 2016 was another positive one for Ducati – the company delivered 55,451 motorcycles to customers all over the world, recording an increase in sales for the seventh consecutive year (+1.2%; 642 more motorcycles than in 2015). The result translated into a turnover of €731 million, with an increase of +4.1% compared to 2015 (€702 million). 

At the end of the fiscal year 2016, Ducati also contributed an operating result of €51 million (2015: €54 million) and an operating margin of 7% to the Audi Group.
“The continuous evolution of our range, both in terms of quality and technology, the constant development of our dealer network and the effectiveness of a strategy based on investments aimed at the products, the quality and the customers, have enabled the company to continue on its growth curve,” declared Claudio Domenicali, Chief Executive Officer of Ducati Motor Holding.
European markets have made a significant contribution to achieving this result, many of them reporting double-digit growth. In Italy sales have risen by +20 percent, while in Spain sales rose by +38%. The number of motorcycles delivered in Germany increased by +8 percent compared with the previous year.
The United States confirms its position as Ducati's number one market, reaching a quota of 8,787 motorcycles delivered to customers. Among the non-European markets, the significant performance of the brand in China, where Ducati doubled the previous year’s result (+120%), is notable. Motorcycles sold in Brazil increased by +36% and by +215% in Argentina.
This year has seen the launch of seven new models: the 1299 Superleggera, the Ducati SuperSport, the Multistrada 950, the Monster 797, Monster 1200 and two new versions of the Ducati Scrambler - Scrambler Cafe Racer and Scrambler Desert Sled. Ducati is currently selling through more than 780 dealers in over 90 countries.

Kellermann

Kellermann launch new premium dealer strategy

Aachen, Germany based motorcycle lights manufacturer Kellermann GmbH has introduced a new Premium Dealer programme, initially in Germany.
The new CEO of Kellermann, Dr. Stefan Wöste, highlighted the important role of their sales partners in the success of the company. “Our dealers and sales partners have been vital contributors to the success of Kellermann in the last almost 30 years. That has made us become one of the market leaders in the LED indicators market,” he said.
From April 2017 a new website has offered a separate B2B dealer shop with new discount rates, and registered dealers can also be displayed on a geographical map.
Kellermann says it will separate their partners into four segments: Dealers, Dealers & Workshop, Premium Dealers and Premium Dealers & Workshop. 

“Premium Dealers will not only benefit from further improved terms and conditions, but will also be able to showcase the Kellermann products live and in action with a newly developed display,” said Wöste. “We know that our products convince customers who are able to see them in use. While it is not always possible to show products installed on a motorcycle in a dealership, this new display will showcase our products ideally and support the dealer’s sales pitch in the best possible way”!
Dealers who want to work with Kellermann, or upgrade to the new Premium Dealer level, should register online at www.kellermann-online.com at the dealer shop.

Japanese made motorcycle exports

Japanese made motorcycle exports to Europe +24.7 percent for first four months of 2017

The latest data released by JAMA (the automotive trade association in Japan, which includes representation of motorcycle manufacturers among its membership) shows exports of 250cc+ Japanese made motorcycles to Europe up by a massive +61.44 percent in April 2017 (29,867 units), having been up by +4.48 percent in March (23,853 units) to make them +24.69 percent for the first four months of the year (101,810 units).

For the full year 2016 exports of 250+cc motorcycles to Europe were +18.83 percent at 180,290 units – the best full year performance experienced by the Japanese factories in Europe since the 201,000 exported in 2010, but still a long way south of the 420,000 exported in 2007 and 461,000 in 2000.
Japanese manufactured total PTW exports to Europe were +24.88 percent in February (28,767 units), “flat” for March at +0.05 percent (24,201 units) and up by +55.01 percent in April (30,510 units), putting them at +21.35 percent for the first four months of 2017 (104,064 units in total so far). They had been +17.83 percent for the full year 2016 at 201,182 units in total - the best annual number for Japanese made PTW exports to Europe since 2010 (228,722 units).
Motorcycle shipments from Japan to the USA were -20.48 percent for the first four months of the year at just 27,057 units, having been -9.36 percent for the full year 2016 at 72,458 units; worldwide Japanese made 250+cc motorcycle exports were +9.64 percent for the same period (157,075 units – the highest since 2012), having been +2.34 percent for the full year 2016 (322,602 units).
Total worldwide Japanese manufactured PTW exports were +4.81 percent for the first three months of 2017 (185,863 units), having been +2.61 percent for the full year 2016 at 428,619 units – their second lowest in the 21st century, having bottomed out at 417,000 in 2015; they peaked at 1.641m units in 2000.
The increasing number of units being made by the Japanese manufacturers elsewhere in Asia, the US and South/Central America goes some way to explaining the data, though the majority of higher value, larger displacement Japanese brand machines, especially those being sold in Europe, are still made in Japan.
Their overseas factories are primarily engaged in making and selling scooters and smaller capacity units in 'emerging' markets (where import tariffs are high) and in making ATV/UTV units, especially in the United States, where demand for such machines is strongest.
www.jama.org

Galfer

New test rig for brakes

Spanish manufacturer Galfer has developed a new inertia dynamometer test rig for brake friction control – allowing the accurate testing of pads and discs and the materials they are made from and the manufacturing processes used to make them.

Based on the company’s 60-plus years of experience in developing and manufacturing friction materials, the rig is the result of some 30 months of development, and it has been in use at its Granollers facility near Barcelona since 2016.
Described by the company as a key component in their research, development and innovation of brake components, this versatile tool is able to simulate braking conditions and variables, and to control and analyse key performance parameters such as speed, braking power, coefficient of friction, fade effect, pressure on the lever and in the pump, sensitivity to that pressure, caliper, pad and disc temperature and resistance and durability.

Tests can be customised for OE and OES standard validations and certification as well as for developing new materials. The vast range of applications allows simulation of every kind of vehicle, from a scooter at 40 km/h to a custom motorcycle weighing more than 450 kg.
Using real telemetry data in the bench testing programme (obtained at closed speed circuits, with speeds in excess of 350 km/h) has marked a “real milestone in our research, design and innovation”, said Export Sales Manager Ivo Bristot.
“The test rig is driven by an electric motor with a max. power of 285 CV (210kW) and has state-of-the-art digital technology. It has a speed range of 0-360 km/h and temperature range of up to 800 degrees centigrade, meaning we can broaden and deepen the test parameters we are able to subject our materials and products to, speed up the testing and validation process, and quickly respond to new market opportunities and demand from our distributors and dealers. It really does take brake testing into a new dimension. Everybody should check out the demonstration video on our website”.

www.galfer.eu

Omnia Racing

Robby Moto race-ready street bike parts

Italian distributor Omnia Racing is offering dealers the prestigious Italian made race-derived parts programme by Robby Moto Engineering (RME).

Founded in 1996 by Gianpaolo Neviani, the race team turned top end manufacturer’s SPECIAL PARTS programme started 11 years ago with racing rearsets, now a staple of the WSBK paddock, and a firm favourite with sportsbike riders the world over – riders who place a premium on genuine race engineering and race proven parts designs and engineering.

In keeping with the original ethos of World Superbike racing, materials (Ergal alloy, titanium, aluminium) and engineering are specified with the intention of making genuine race parts available for street use – the range stretches from rearsets, triple clamps, chain adjusters, handlebars and clip-ons to camshafts, pistons, connecting rods, fuel tank caps, fork preload adjusters, quick action throttles, rear brake pumps, workshop tools and front/rear stands.
RME’s elegant, lightweight and race-ready designs are internationally renowned and available internationally for most popular Hypersport and Superbike makes and models through Omnia Racing.

OMNIA RACING SPECIAL PARTS
www.omniaracing.com

BMW Motorrad

Connected future

BMW has presented a vision of zero-emission urban mobility on two wheels - the BMW Motorrad Concept Link. Inspired by the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100, the design study “unites digital connectivity with the demands of urban mobility on two wheels. It treads new paths and moves beyond established conventions, both with regard to design and technology,” the company says. 

“The Concept Link is not based on today’s concepts, but rather meets the basic functionality needs, the technical architecture and the digital reality of today’s users. The technical realities of electric drive – such as the flat energy packs in the underfloor and the compact drive on the rear wheel – allowed us to create a highly distinctive design which shapes a new segment,” said Alexander Buckan, Head of Vehicle Design at BMW Motorrad.
A reverse gear ensures that it is easy to manoeuvre, making it ideal to park in tight city spaces. The classic instrument cluster has been dropped. Instead speed, navigation and battery information is projected onto the windshield directly into the rider’s field of vision. Secondary information is displayed on a large-surface panel located below the handlebars. The panel enables a large number of possible ways of interacting with the outside world and for communicating with other vehicles.
The rider equipment is also connected to the vehicle. To highlight this connection, a motion on the arm of the jacket opens and closes the sliding door of the luggage compartment. A stitch on the arm signifies the active area.

Andreani Group

Bonneville and Street Twin suspension kit; Oil recovery tub

Italian suspension specialist Andreani Group is offering a model-specific kit for the Triumph Street Twin 900 and Bonneville T100 / T120 (2015 and up). The kit is based around Öhlins traditional FG 433 (gold version) forks and FG 434 (black version) to better control the front wheel and improve riding stability and comfort.

The kit includes complete CNC-machined triple clamps, wheel axle with spacers, front fender, lights housing, instrumentation and brake caliper supports; it is completely Plug & Play, as it is easy to mount and fully adaptable with all original components.
Also seen here, and developed in-house by Andreani's R&D department, is a stainless steel oil recovery tub specially designed to avoid any kind of oxidation. They look good, are easy to fit and measure 70cm in length, 35cm in height and 23.5cm in width, with a 3cm outer diameter final tube.

Andreani International Sales Manager Luciano Ubaldini says that “we have been asked several times where we get our oil recovery tubs, which we use for our workbenches for shock and front fork oils. Now, as we needed to build some new ones for our own workstations, we decided to build extras to give our customers the special, but strictly limited opportunity to buy them”.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com

Stylmartin

‘Seattle’ Evo riding sneakers

Italian specialist Stylmartin’s ‘Seattle’ sneakers are crafted in oily suede leather and now come in a wider range of sizes (36-47), catering to the needs of urban women riders.

The “comfortable fit” of this sneaker is due to “lasting”, a method that improves foot support, with the upper, insole and outsole shaped and completed around the last. Adding to comfort are anatomical, removable and micro-perforated insoles for breathability. The oily suede leather upper is water repellent treated; internally it has a waterproof and breathable membrane and PU malleolus protectors. Additional features include reinforced wear and tear areas such as the gear shift. The ‘Seattle’ is CE certified to level 2 (EN 13634:2015).
Two sets of laces are included as standard (black with fluo yellow edges and distressed grey), and it comes in black with vintage finishes. A further touch of hi-viz yellow is mirrored in the rear reflex insert.

CALZATURIFICIO ANTIS S.r.l.
www.stylmartin.it

Kappa

Accessory kit for Yamaha Tracer 700

Kappa’s model-specific accessory kit for Yamaha’s Tracer 700 medium-size touring bike includes cases, bags and a top case to make the bike more versatile.

Consisting of two quick-release side case racks, the KLR2130 rack supports all cases in the Monokey range, including the aluminium, squared KVenture; the KLXR2130 rack is dedicated to the pair of streamlined and compact K33 side cases with the Monokey side attach system. The KZ2130 rack makes a wide choice of Monokey and Monolock top cases available; a pair of Tracer 700 specific side frames allow safe fitting of panniers and a bag with Kappa's Tanklock system has been designed for the Tracer 700 gas cap.
Aerodynamic screens, engine guards and mud flaps are available, with three specific screens to allow tuning of the aerodynamics. Their KD2130S model has a tinted finish and is 12 cm higher than the original (51 x 41 cm); the KD2130ST model is transparent and 17 cm higher (56 x 41 cm); the third option is a low, matt black sports model (KD2130BO) - unobtrusive and ideal for summer, according to Kappa. There is a choice of two model-specific engine guards in 25 mm steel tubing, front protection, and a universal rear mud flap with Tracer 700 mounting kit.
Additional parts include a pair of universal extra halogen lights, which can be positioned on the engine guard tube or mounted with an LS2130; ABS extensions for the standard Yamaha handguards provide increased protection; an aluminium and steel support allows the ground footing of the Tracer's side stand to be increased, and a bracket is available to mount GPS/smartphone holders behind the screen, using the two standard struts.

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

Spanish motorcycle registrations

Motorcycle registrations +3.43 percent in Spain in May

According to the latest data available from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, new motorcycle registrations in May were +3.43 percent (up from the -14.71 percent seen in April) at 14,424 units. For the first five months of 2017 the market is -5.8 percent (60,061 units).

In moped terms May was +6.87 percent (+15.67 percent in April) at 1,618 units; for the year-to-date moped sales in Spain are +19.0 percent (7,138 units).
General Secretary of ANESDOR Jose Maria Riano has welcomed the growth saying that “after a slow start to the year, one influenced by the same Euro 3 effect seen elsewhere in Europe, the motorcycle and wider powered two-wheeler and light vehicles markets in Spain are showing healthy growth again.”
ANESDOR say that sales of mid-displacement motorcycles by +14 percent in May with 5,500 units registered, representing 38 percent of total PTW sales. Scooters were down a little in May (-0.7 percent) compared to May 2016 with 8,619 units sold – some 60 percent of the total PTW market in Spain.
Riano has again pointed to the age of the motorcycle fleet (“park”) in Spain (at an average of 14.7 years old) and called on the government to start incentivising replacement of older machines with new models through fiscal reform initiatives.
To mark World Environment Day (June 5, 2017) ANESDOR released data concerning e-bikes in Spain, saying that so far this year ( to May 31st) 1,099 two-wheel electric vehicles (motorcycles and mopeds) had been registered, which is up by +66 percent on the first five months of 2016.

Yamaha

Yamaha hits 500th Grand Prix racing victory milestone

Yamaha is celebrating a momentous landmark in its successful motorcycle racing history with  Maverick Viñales having secured their 500th race win at the Le Mans Bugatti Grand Prix race circuit in France. 

The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM, the global governing body of motorcycle racing) has officially declared that, according to their statistical records, Yamaha has enjoyed victories in the 125cc (47 wins), 250cc (165 wins), 350cc (63 wins), 500cc (120 wins) and MotoGP class (105 wins), adding up to a sensational 500 Grand Prix wins in total.
Out of all Yamaha riders, current MotoGP class racer Valentino Rossi is the biggest achiever. His love story with the YZR-M1 has been going strong for many years and has resulted in 55 wins to date. Teammate Viñales has only been competing as part of the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Team for five races, but has established an impressive 60% victory rate on the Yamaha, thanks to his wins in Qatar, Argentina and France.
Yamaha‘s list of Grand Prix victors is full of legends - Jorge Lorenzo (44 wins), Phil Read (39 wins), Eddie Lawson (26 wins), Wayne Rainey (24 wins), Kenny Roberts Sr. (24 wins), Bill Ivy (21 wins), Carlos Lavado (19 wins), Luca Cadalora (13 wins), Giacomo Agostini (12 wins), and many more.
To give an overview of the magnitude of the effort put in by all its Grand Prix riders, Yamaha has created a micro website, which features a special 500th victory video, an infograph, some of the best historical photographs of Yamaha‘s 56-year Grand Prix racing run, as well as overviews of all the victories, riders and bikes that made this massive achievement possible.
www.yamahamotogp.com/500-victories

IVM

IVM elects new President

German adventure touring specialist Touratech hosted the annual general meeting of the IVM, the German motorcycle industry trade association, in June.

The newly elected IVM board members, together with Touratech founder and host of the IVM annual general meeting Herbert Schwarz, from left to right: Herbert Schwarz, IVM President Ralf Keller, Yamaha Germany, First Vice President Henning Putzke, BMW Motorrad, and President and representative of the aftermarket Ronald Kabella, Bucher AG/Motorex. The re-elected Second Vice President Ralph Zimmer is unfortunately missing.

Among the news to come from the meeting was the election of a new IVM President following the resignation of BMW’s Heiner Faust, who has moved to the Munich manufacturer’s automotive division.
Replacing him is former Vice President Ralf Keller, of Yamaha Motor Germany, with Henning Putzke of BMW Motorrad as first Vice President and Ralph Zimmer, of Piaggio Deutschland, as second Vice President, and Ronald Kabella, of Bucher AG/Motorex, Switzerland, as a representative of the supply chain and aftermarket.
www.ivm-ev.de

Australia motorcycle sales

Motorcycle sales down in Q1 in Australia

According to the latest data released by Australia’s Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), the market there suffered a -13.4 percent decline in the first quarter of 2017 compared with the same period in 2016.
Sales for the 2017 first quarter totalled 21,794 units compared with 25,160 for the same January – March period in 2016. The first quarter decline comes after a busy 2016 in Australia, in which the industry recorded its best annual result since 2009.
Both the road and off-road segments recorded declines during the first three months of 2017, with road bikes down -15.5 percent and off-road down -15.3 percent. The ATV/SS market showed only a small drop of -1.3 percent.
Scooter sales, which have been in slow decline for several years, fell by -22.3 percent. Piaggio remained top seller in the scooter market with 293 sales. Second place was taken by Vespa with 240 sales, and Honda third with 198 sales.
Harley-Davidson retained its top selling status overall among the road bikes with 2,261 sales for the first quarter, followed by Honda (1,943 sales) and Yamaha (1,455).
The top selling manufacturer in the off-road category was Yamaha with 1,734 sales; followed by Honda with 1,467 sales and KTM (1,393).
Polaris led the ATV segment with 1,244 sales. It was followed by Honda with 908 sales, and close behind it in third place, Yamaha with 845 sales.
In overall market share terms, Honda was “top dog” selling 4,516 units in total, followed by Yamaha (4,094 units), Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, KTM and Suzuki.
The top selling road bike in Australia in the first quarter was Honda’s NBC110, which was also the best selling learner approved motorcycle scheme model (LAMS); Harley’s FXSB (Softail Breakout) was the top selling cruiser; Piaggio’s Fly 150 the top selling Scooter;  Yamaha’s YZF-R3A and WR450F topped the sports touring and Enduro sectors respectively; Harley dominated the tourers, and Honda’s CRF 1000 ‘Africa Twin’ was the bestselling Adventure tourer, with their CRF 450R the top MX/off-road machine, and the ‘GROM’ the bestselling naked style bike.
www.fcai.com.au

GIVI

Optional extras from GIVI

In addition to its most famous product lines such as cases, helmets and bags, GIVI also makes a number of other useful accessories designed to improve the standard set-up, protection, riding comfort, luggage capacity and safety of many popular motorcycle models.

Their FB range of fairing upper brackets includes the 12mm diameter screen bracket seen here that holds a GPS or smartphone above the control panel, fully compatible with bike sat navs Tom Tom Rider 40-400-410 and all Garmin Zumo using GIVI's dedicated supports. The company says that “our FB range of fairing upper brackets is guaranteed to be compatible with both original screens and GIVI screens.” The bracket is at present available for the Yamaha Tracer 700 and 900, Honda NC750X and Kawasaki Versys 650, with more applications being added regularly.

Also available is a light mounting kit for bikes with no engine guard. GIVI’s model-specific LS kits (the Versys 650 version is seen here) have a 25mm diameter tube structure that can also be used for hooking on an action camera. Pairs of GIVI lights presently available are their S310 high-beam halogen, the S320/S321 LED fog lights - at present also available for BMW R nineT and R1200 RT, Yamaha Tracer and Honda NC750X.

GIVI’s RM01 universal rear mud flap fits with model-specific mounting. Made of ABS with an inner metal core, the bracket fits to the left side of the swingarm - available for Yamaha Tracer 700 and 900, Honda NC750X and S and Kawasaki Versys 650.

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

Nitron Racing Systems

Adjustable Nitron shocks for MT-10

Founded in 1998 and with headquarters in Oxfordshire, England’s famed ‘Motorsport Valley’, British manufacturer Nitron has launched a new fully serviceable upgrade shock range for the new Yamaha MT-10. With the damper fluid under pressure from the nitrogen gas charged cell, the performance from the shocks are far more temperature stable and the feel is under heavy or prolonged use if more consistent. 

Nitron shocks feature a full range of adjustable features including rebound damping to fully adjustable independent high/low speed compression – with a far wider and more linear range of adjustment that the OE unit it replaces; 14 or 16mm induction hardened, super polished piston rod; progressive cellular bump stop; Teflon lined “Ultimate Low Friction” spherical bearings and a “FLEXaLIGHT” coated silicone steel spring.
Pre-set in production, their gas pressurised 40mm R1 large piston mono-tube damping system is said to offer all riders immediate improvements in both handling and ride, in particular under hard and prolonged conditions. For more confident and experienced riders the extra adjustment functions of the R2, R3 and 46mm Race Pro versions allow settings to be tailored to their own requirements and preferences.

For quick and easy ride height adjustment, an easy to use remote, hydraulic pre-load adjuster (HPA) option is recommended for improved convenience. The mono-tube shock body has a hard anodised titanium finish and spring finish options include standard Nitron blue or titanium black.
Nitron uses state-of-the-art dynamometers, 5-axis CNC machines and the latest 3d CAD techniques and brings considerable machining, materials technology, hydraulics, bike engineering and F1 racing experience to their shock absorber design programmes.

NITRON RACING SYSTEMS
www.nitron.co.uk

Caberg

Comms ready ‘Uptown’ and ‘Droid’ flip-up

Caberg’s elegant new ‘Uptown’ classic jet style helmet has been “conceived for the touring world, while also being ideal for everyday urban use,” according to the Italian manufacturer.
Available in two 1,150 +/-50gr polycarbonate shell sizes, two front air vents and rear extractors deliver excellent ventilation and features include Caberg’s exclusive Double Visor Tech system with glove-friendly inner sun visor. The extra wide aerodynamic outer transparent visor is anti-scratch treated and prepared to fit the Pinlock lens; lateral ratchets prevent the visor from rubbing against the shell.

Uptown

The micrometric buckle makes for safe and easy adjustments, and a ring means secure attachment of the helmet to the bike. The removable and washable lining is made from breathable fabrics and ‘Uptown’ is preset for use with Caberg’s ‘Just Speak S’ Bluetooth wireless communication system, which allows the rider to communicate with the passenger and their cellphone, to connect to a GPS system and to listen to music through an mp3 player or mobile phone. ‘Just Speak S’ uses the Bluetooth A2DP profile.
Also seen here is Caberg’s ‘Droid’ flip-up – “a model with an aggressive look and a distinct identity, with avantgarde technical solutions for the most demanding touring riders.”
Available in two 1,550 gr +/- 50 gr polycarbonate shell sizes, the chin guard has two individually adjustable air vents to drive air directly to the inner surface of the visor, avoiding misting even during extreme weather conditions, according to the company. The glove-friendly ventilation system has a wide adjustable front vent and inner air channels and two additional chin guard vents.

Droid

Caberg say they were the first Italian manufacturer to introduce a flip-up and that the experience gained has resulted in a design that has received the dual P/J homologation which, among other benefits for the stocking dealer and their customers, allows the helmet to be ridden with the chin guard open thanks to the lever on the left side of the helmet – when in the ‘J’ position this lever locks the chin guard in the fully open position, avoiding accidental closing.
‘Droid’ is also equipped with Caberg’s exclusive Double Visor Tech system with anti-scratch treated inner sun visor and anti-scratch/anti-fog clear outer with Max Vision Pinlock lens.
The ‘Droid’ has an entirely removable and washable lining and is made with high-grade hypoallergenic and transpiring fabrics, spectacle-friendly cheek pads and is Caberg ‘Just Speak S’ comms system ready.

CABERG SPA
www.caberg-helm.com

WRP

WRP off-road discs

These WRP (Italy) brake discs for off-road bike applications are a “superb alternative to the original rotors”, according to Export Sales Director Francesco Fabbri.  

“Other than being attractive to the eye, compared to OEM discs important technical features of WRP discs include faster braking response, improved heat dissipation and excellent brake pad contact with constant brake pad cleaning”.
Made in Europe, all WRP brake discs are laser-cut from plates of AISI 420 grade stainless steel and heat-treated to improve strength and endurance.
The front discs are available either in standard or oversize 270mm dimensions, with floating disc versions of the oversize also available. They are available for most popular off-road racing bikes.

WIND TRADING SRL
www.windtrading.it

Honda

Honda’s Atessa factory makes
its millionth SH

Honda’s Atessa factory, founded in the Abruzzo region of central Italy in 1971, has reached a historic milestone - the production of one million units of the perennially popular SH scooter series.

Honda’s original SH50 started production in Belgium in 1984

The second generation SH100 was produced at the Atessa factory when it opened in 1996

The SH story began in 1984 with the production - in Belgium - of the SH50 ‘motorino’ moped. Manufacture of the second generation SH50, and the new SH100, moved to Atessa in 1996. Honda’s main European manufacturing plant has remained the home of SH production ever since and now makes all three currently available SH models: the SH300, SH150 and SH125.

The 2017 SH 125 – along with the SH 150 and 300, Honda sold 17,000 SH scooters in 2016

The SH125 model has been produced at Atessa since 2001 and was Europe’s best-selling scooter in 2016 with over 17,000 units sold. The latest version of the SH125 went into production in December 2016 and features LED lights front and rear, remotely operating Smart Key and new styling that is even more refined and sophisticated, while retaining a classic SH look.
world.honda.com

Swedish motorcycle sales

Swedish motorcycle sales -6.79 percent January to April 2017

The latest data from McRF, the Swedish motorcycle industry trade association, shows new motorcycle registrations at -24.35 percent in April at 1,662 units (+28.19 percent in March at 1,596 units) and are running -6.79 percent for the year to date (January to April 2017).

As was the case elsewhere in Europe, there may well have been some Euro 3 inventory pre-registrations in Sweden at the end of last year, but Per Johansson, the CEO of McRF, explains that there were three fewer retail days in April 2017 compared to last year, and that while mild weather probably boosted March sales, April was colder and wetter.
In total PTW terms, April saw 3,255 new machines registered (1,593 mopeds, +2.25 percent, 3,211 YTD) to leave the market about level at 6,987 total units YTD (6,904 in the first four months of 2016); March had been +27.57 percent with 2,665 new PTWs of all kinds registered.
In 2016 Sweden recorded +8.00 percent growth in new motorcycle registrations for the full year at 10,178 units; total PTW registrations were +10.18 percent at 21,347 units in total.
This year’s MC Massan Swedish motorcycle show at Stockholm at the end of January saw strong attendance - in the region of 53,000 visitors. In 2018 the show will return to Gothenburg from January 25 to 28.

News Briefs

British performance and handling technology firm HM Quickshifter has announced SpeedMob as its U.S. importer and distributor. Known for their strain gauge based technology, Quick Shifters are available for all riders, from the top-level MotoGP Teams to the street enthusiast. Their top of the range HMSS GP system “uses intensive and very advanced mathematics and digital signal processing (DSP) to identify when the gears have fully engaged. This nullifies the requirement for kill times and not only ensures the shortest possible kill times between shifts, but also ensures the smoothest and safest gear changes possible regardless of the conditions, load, rpm or gearbox characteristics”.

Italian sportsbike parts and accessory specialist Bonamici Racing has announced a partnership with Aprilia Racing for the 2017 season to run in the WSBK Championship, SuperStock1000 Championship and Italian CIV SBK.

A new ‘plug in’ subsidy scheme for electric motorcycles in the UK has seen its first customers benefit from the incentive. Introduced by the UK Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) to increase the uptake of electric vehicles, the buyer of a Zero FXS (average range of 60 miles, top speed of 85mph) saw the price of his new bike reduced by £1,500 (or 20% of the total purchase cost).

The next edition of the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2018 is going to be held in Mongolia, in central Asia, in the early summer of 2018.

Italian manufacturer Sidi is the official boots provider for Husqvarna Enduro, SuperEnduro and Extreme Enduro Team Riders. This two-year agreement will see all six Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Enduro, SuperEnduro and Extreme Enduro team riders based in Europe wearing Sidi boots throughout their 2017 and 2018 racing campaigns.

French brakes manufacturer Beringer has appointed Frog Specialities Llc. as its exclusive U.S. importer and distributor.

Touratech

Touratech windscreens: “More comfort, great looks”

Touratech says its in-house manufactured windshields offer “better protection from the elements and boost the aerodynamics of a wide range of adventure bikes. They are available in different heights to suit the size of the rider and the intended use”.
The “form and function of the upper edge of the windshields are based on our rally racing experiences. The design is patented in the USA and provides optimum coverage and the cleanest airflow while still keeping a relatively low profile and great looks. The material used is a shock-resistant “Plexiglass”, which complies with the German general operating permit (ABE) standards.
“The aerodynamic optimisation guides the air streams over the head of the rider without unnecessary turbulence. This means the shield is not only flicker-free, but also improves the riding experience for the rider and passenger”.
Touratech windscreens are currently available for the BMW F 800 GS and R 1200 GS/ADV, Ducati Multistrada, Honda NC 700/750 X, NC 700/750 S and Honda CRF 1000L Africa Twin (as seen here), Yamaha MT-09 Tracer and KTM models 1190/1050, 1290/1190/1050 and 690 Enduro/R.
Depending on the bike model, the Touratech windscreens are available in various sizes to suit the rider's height and the application, in a transparent or tinted version.

TOURATECH AG
www.touratech.com

Shoei

Shoei RYD Street full face

New for 2017 from Shoei, the RYD Street helmet is made in four shell sizes from an organic fibre and multi-composite fibre laminate (AIM) for a “shock-absorbent shell with optimum rigidity”.

Features include a variable density EPS liner system, removable and washable cheek pads (individually adjustable), and a 3D centre pad combine interior safety and comfort. Shoei’s Emergency Quick Release System (EQRS) facilitates safe and fast helmet removal in the case of an accident; mist-retardant CWR-1 Pinlock visor; integrated spoiler for “optimised aerodynamic performance” and multiple venting and extraction with three inlets on the brow and chin and two exhaust outlets at the rear.
Optional accessories include choice of 14 visors, different sizes/thicknesses of cheek and centre pads, breath guard and chin curtain; ear pads are included, and the helmet is prepared for intercom installation.
The RYD joins Shoei’s full face line up as a fourth option alongside their X-Spirit 3, NXR and GT-Air.

SHOEI (EUROPE)
www.shoei-europe.com

Remus

More Monster

Austrian exhaust manufacturer Remus claims it has found an additional +4.7 hp for the 1200R Ducati Monster with its ‘Hypercone’ slip-on muffler.

Available with stainless steel, stainless steel black or titanium sleeves, with plug-in Euro 4 catalytic converter available for the stainless steel application, the weight-optimised design is said to be 3.2kg lighter than the stock muffler it replaces and to deliver an extra +3.5 Nm torque.
Power peaks at around 9,600 rpm with a maximum output of some 155.5 hp with sound insert; the torque is strongest in the mid-range peaking at 126.1 Nm; with sound insert at around 8,000 rpm.

REMUS INNOVATION
www.remus.eu

Stylmartin

Stealth Evo racing boot updated

Stylmartin, established in Montebelluna, Italy, in 1979 by Antonio Binotto, still draws its design inspiration from the founder’s creative vision, according to owner Calzaturificio Antis.

Their top-of-the-range Stealth Evo racing boot has been updated for 2017 with improvements to the plastic components and a redesign to improve foot movement. The signature black and white look is emphasized by the use of contrasting and stylish matt and shiny finishes and new graphics on the upper.
Stealth Evo has all the full technical features of their standard Stealth boot, including an upper in microfiber and a breathable air mesh lining. Protections include polyurethane shin protection and shift pad, jointed, flexible front shock absorption, and an anatomical heel design with shock-absorbing internal padding. There are open/close air intakes on the shin plates, heel and back, and toothed bands with an adjustable button; micrometric lever and protected zipper mean secure fastening.
The anatomic footbed is anti-shock and anti-bacterial with silver thread; the sole is anti-slip in hard-wearing rubber with a changeable titanium slider on the toe and PU at the heel.

CALZATURIFICIO ANTIS S.r.l.
www.stylmartin.it

HP Corse

Evoxtreme for Hypermotard

‘High’ left or ‘Low’ right

Italian exhaust manufacturer HP Corse’s racing division has developed two versions (‘High’ or ‘Low’ ) of its ‘Evoxtreme’ performance exhaust system for Ducati’s Hypermotard.
Available in silver or black finished stainless steel, they are said to deliver increased power due to the reduced weight and greater agility due to improved throttle response. A weld-free slip-on design, the irregular shape of the silencer body is complemented by the slash-cut carbon fibre end cap for a design that the Bologna manufacturer says enhances the design of Ducati’s legal 821cc air-cooled V-twin supermoto.
HP Corse, Italy, www.hpcorse.com

UK motorcycle registrations

UK motorcycle registrations -14.64 percent January to April

The latest data released by the MCIA (Motorcycle Industry Association) in the UK makes for disappointing reading, even allowing for the Euro 3 inventory pre-registration hand-over.

Motorcycle registrations in March were -11.29 percent (13,818 units) and -15.28 percent in April (9,743 units), which is also behind the 2015 market performance. For the year to date the UK market is -14.64 percent at 31,425 units sold.
Moped sales were -25.82 percent in April (-29.27 percent in March) and are running at -24.08 percent year-to-date (1,974 units).
In total PTW terms the UK was down -15.91 percent in April (10,283 units – the market was -12.68 percent in March) and is running at -15.26 percent year-to-date (33,399 units).
‘Naked’ style bikes remain the most popular in the UK (9,693 units), followed by Adventure Sport models (6,091 units YTD); the scooter market has seen sales drop by 28.4 percent YTD (5,617 units), and the historically dominant Supersport market is down -26.0 percent (3,238 units), with Touring and Sport Touring models down by -16.2 percent and -9.5 percent respectively. The only sector to show growth so far this year in the UK is the Trail/Enduro market, which is +4.1 percent.
In power band terms the only growth seen is above 1000cc with sales of the largest machines +1.9 percent YTD (7,377 units); the combined 651+cc market was worth 16,931 percent of total UK motorcycle sales YTD, which is 50 percent of the total.
The best-selling motorcycle model in the UK in April was Kawasaki’s Z1000 SX; Yamaha’s MT-10 was the best-selling middleweight motorcycle (651-1000cc). BMW’s R 1200 GS tops the Adventure Sport market, with the R 1200 RT the best-selling Touring model.

Honda unit sales +15.8 percent in Europe

Honda unit sales +15.8 percent in Europe for first quarter of 2017; +6.4 percent in Europe for 2016/17 financial year

Honda saw global Group motorcycle unit sales grow by +3.6 percent to 17,661m units for their 2016/2017 financial year ended March 31st.; on a consolidated basis (directly and wholly owned operations only) sales grew +6.3 percent to 11,237m units.

For the fourth quarter (January to March 2017) global Group unit sales were +1.8 percent (4.248m units); on a consolidated basis sales were +2.1 percent (2.633m units).
In Europe, consolidated unit sales were +15.8 percent at 66,000 in the final quarter (January to March 2017) and +6.4 percent for the full financial year to March 31st at 217,000 units.
Honda says it has seen further decreases in sales of motorcycles and ATVs in the United States (-4.5 percent for the 12 months at 294,000 units) as the overall market there continues to contract. Asia has seen increases in Pakistan, Vietnam and Thailand (decreases in Indonesia) to leave them +10.0 percent at 9,513m units. Sales in Brazil were down.
Its fourth quarter Group motorcycle unit sales resulted in a +3.8 percent increase in sales revenue at 453.7 bn yen, a 38.1 percent increase in operating profit and an 8.4 percent increase in operating margin.
Motorcycle sales revenue for the full year to end of March 2017 were down -6.1 percent at 170.1 bn yen, with operating margin reduced to 9.9 percent.
Overall, corporate fiscal fourth quarter consolidated operating profit was up at 201.9 billion yen. Consolidated operating profit for the fiscal year (April 1, 2016 through March 31, 2017) amounted to 840.7 billion yen, an increase of 67.0 percent compared to the previous fiscal year.
Consolidated operating profit for the fiscal fourth quarter (January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017) amounted to 138.1 billion yen, an increase of 201.9 billion yen compared to the same period last year.

Austria – motorcycle registrations

Austria – motorcycle registrations +6.17 percent for Q1

The latest data released by the motorcycle trade association in Austria (Arge2Rad) shows registrations of new PTWs for the first quarter of 2017 broadly flat at -0.19 percent (7,684 units).

In terms of motorcycles of over 125cc, the market was +23.11 percent in March at 2,989 units, and is +6.17 percent for the YTD at 3,323 units.
In its home market KTM is market leader with a 22.12 percent share for the first three months of the year, with BMW second (16.97 percent), followed by Honda (11.16 percent), Yamaha (10.32 percent) and Kawasaki (6.62 percent).
In total PTW terms Vespa is market share leader, followed by KTM, Honda, BMW and Derbi.
In 2016, new motorcycle registrations for the full year in Austria were up by +19.54 percent at 15,004 units (the market was flat in 2015 at 12,551 units). In total powered two-wheeler terms registrations were up by +12.52 percent (43,621 units) for the full year. In January this year, Austria became the second country in Europe (after the UK) to launch an e-mobility purchase incentive programme.

Yamaha

Yamaha report Q1 sales revenue up worldwide, unit sales down in Europe

Net sales for Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd.'s consolidated accounting period for the first quarter of the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017 were 386.0 billion yen (an increase of +3.1 billion yen or +0.8% compared with the same period the previous fiscal year), and operating income was 37.3 billion yen (an increase of +5.0 billion yen or +15.5%).

In the developed markets business, profitability improvements progressed in marine, industrial machinery and robot products, and electrically power-assisted bicycles, but remaining one-off factors, such as the appreciating yen and the effect of unrealized income etc., led to decreased sales and income.
Regarding the emerging markets motorcycle business, increased sales of products in the higher price range and profitability improvements through cost reductions and structural reforms etc. continued, which led to increased sales and income.
Ordinary income was 40.8 billion yen (an increase of +12.7 billion yen or +45.1% against the same period the previous fiscal year), and net income for the period attributable to parent company shareholders was +31.7 billion yen (an increase of +11.0 billion yen or +53.0%).
Motorcycle net sales were 232.5 billion yen (an increase of +2.7 billion yen or +1.2% compared with the same period the previous fiscal year), and operating income was +13.9 billion yen (an increase of +6.4 billion yen or +84.0%).
Unit sales decreased in developed markets such as Europe, North America and Japan. Unit sales in emerging markets such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand increased, but decreased in the Indonesian market etc.
Net sales decreased in developed markets due to an appreciation of the yen and lower unit sales, whereas net sales increased in emerging markets thanks to increases in unit sales and sales of products in the higher price range. Operating income increased due to the effects of product mix improvements and cost reductions etc.

ACK ATTACK

World’s fastest motorcycle bound for Bolivia

The world’s fastest motorcycle, the TOP 1 ACK ATTACK, is bound for Bolivia for an epic adventure to exceed its own record of 376.363 mph/605.697 km/h. The twin-engine streamliner is going to make a run for the record on the remote Salar de Uyuni salt flats high in the Andes mountains between August 3-8, 2017.
The TOP 1 ACK ATTACK’s previous record-breaking runs took place on the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats, but the team is now travelling to Bolivia to conquer this new challenge.

“Bolivia has been selected because it has a much longer run up and down of 16 miles versus about seven miles at Bonneville,” explains ACK ATTACK pilot and three-time World Land Speed record holder Rocky Robinson. “This makes it safer, too. Wheel spin on driven – not thrust/jet – streamliners is a danger, so the acceleration has to be very gradual to avoid awkward handling. Distance is your friend!”

“Honestly, we would have preferred to set the record in Bonneville,” adds TOP 1 VP of Sales & Marketing Frank Ryan. “TOP 1 lives and breathes the American lifestyle. We produce and package our products in the USA before distributing them to 60 countries around the world. However, several years of bad conditions at Bonneville, coupled with record rainfall this year, means we have to travel to the top of the world to find optimal conditions. Those conditions just happen to be at 12,000 feet above sea level in the Andes mountains.”
Breaking down Bolivia by the numbers: Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat at 10,582 square kilometers (4,086 square miles) with an elevation of 3,656 meters (11,995 feet) above sea level. The high elevation will play havoc with fuel management, and the harsh conditions will take their toll on the entire team, but Robinson says they are on a mission to not only defend the current World Land Speed record of 376 mph/605 km/h, but also to be the first motorcycle to break the 400 mph speed barrier!
“When we started to build the TOP 1 ACK ATTACK in 2003, our goal was to exceed the record of 322 mph that had stood for 16 years,” said Mike Akatiff, builder of the TOP 1 ACK ATTACK, “but in the back of my head was the thought that we could build a bike to actually go 400 mph. We began challenging the record in 2004, and, with the backing of TOP 1 Oil, we have broken the record three times: in 2006, 2008 and 2010. The 2010 record still stands today at 376.363 mph, but I believe the bike is now ready to go much faster, and with a suitable race track we feel we can make history once again.”
Founded in 1979 by William “Bill” Ryan, TOP 1 Oil Products is a premium synthetic lubricant brand. TOP 1 prides itself as being an American brand and being run by the 2nd and 3rd generations of the Ryan family.
Built by Mike Akatiff, owner of Ack Technologies, an avionics company, the ACK ATTACK is a brilliant piece of engineering. The 20-foot long streamliner is powered by a pair of turbocharged/intercooled Suzuki Hayabusa engines, producing more than 1000bhp. The quest to be the world’s fastest motorcycle hasn’t been easy – the ACK ATTACK crashed three times during record runs, in 2004, 2007 (when it rolled 16 times) and 2011 – “but with great risks come great rewards.”

www.top1ackattack.com

News Briefs

Spanish luggage manufacturer SHAD was awarded the new International German Design Award 2017 for its SH36 cases in recognition of their “innovative design”. The accolade follows the International Red Dot award received for the design in 2015.

Honda is starting a joint venture with Hitachi Automotive Systems to produce motors for electric vehicles. A “memorandum of understanding” was signed between the two Japanese giants in February for a Hitachinaka City (Ibaraki) based enterprise that will be jointly capitalised to the tune of an initial 5 billion yen (approx. 40 euro). It is reported that the new company will have sales and production subsidiaries in China and the United States.

Spanish EV manufacturer Torrot (owner of Gas Gas) leads sales in the Spanish 2-wheel electric sector for January. The new Torrot Muvi urban electric bikes are boosting sales for the company, with the Muvi City version heading sales with 56 units sold in January, out of a market total of 268 units of all brands sold.

BMW Motorrad says it has had a good start to 2017 globally, with a total of 7,503 motorcycles and maxi-scooters delivered to customers in January, an increase of 0.2% on the same month last year.

Award-winning air filter manufacturer Twin Air is to support Rockstar Energy Husqvarna for the next three years in an extension of a partnership that has seen them being the official provider of air filter and performance accessories to the majority of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing teams. Founded in 1972, the Dutch company was the first to introduce the washable and reusable dual-foam laminated air filter.

2015 British Superbike Champion Josh Brookes (making his Norton TT debut) and fellow Australian David 'Davo' Johnson (seventh place in last year's Superbike TT) will ride the IOM for Norton in June on a race version of the recently launched V4 SS road bike in the Senior and Superbike TT races. Both riders will compete on the all-new SG6, derived from the recently launched V4 SS road bike.

Parts Europe

Parts Europe with more brands, more products and more pages for 2017

The Parts Europe catalogue has been growing every year since the company opened its giant state-of-the-art distribution facility at Wasserliesch, near Trier in Germany in 2008. Every year the Parts Europe Street catalogue grows, and with it the staff at the European headquarters – some 160 people now make Parts Europe one of the largest distribution teams in Europe.
This year, there are some 370 fewer pages in the main catalogue, but the company is also now offering a unique new dealer guide to tyres, service and workshop items, chemicals and lubricants that provides their dealers with an additional 580 pages of high turnover, high margin and often exclusive brands and product items.
The ‘Street’ catalogue is still a beast though, at 1,624 desk-bending pages of the most “outstanding selection of top brands and new products in the industry”.

Available in print and online, they detail the complete Street inventory available from the European operation of the world’s largest parts, accessory, performance, tuning, service and apparel products distributor.
A wholly-owned subsidiary of the US based LeMans Corporation, a 38 million euro investment has produced a 16,500 sq m distribution centre offering 750 brands and over 280,000 products.

www.partseurope.eu