Italian motorcycle registrations

Italian registrations growing as industry heads for Milan

In a stark contrast to the trends being seen elsewhere in Europe, Italian new motorcycle registrations (as reported by trade association ANCMA) are growing strongly after the market there suffered the same early season Euro 3/Euro 4 inventory crossover impacts seen in most other markets.

For September, registrations are reported at 5,898 new motorcycles, which is +13.40 percent compared to September 2016, and the 7th straight month of growth for the Italian market.
On a year-to-date basis, sales are running at +10.43 percent for the first 9 months of 2017, at 72,295 new units registered so far this year.
This contrasts with Germany, where the latest available statistics (through August 2017) put the market at -6.38 percent YTD (85,821 units), the UK at -15.38 percent through September (79,605 units), and Spain, where motorcycle registrations are -8.03 percent for the period through September (at 105,230 units YTD).
In addition to Italy, the only other of Europe’s “Big Five” markets to report positive results so far this year is France, where PTWs in the 125cc and above market (excluding scooters) were at +3.8 percent at 111,934 units through to August.
In Italy total PTWs sales are +6.88 percent for the first nine months of 2017 at 177,230 units. In 2016 motorcycle registrations in Italy were +21.49 percent at 75,936 units; total PTW registrations were +13.26 percent for the full year at 193,814 units.
Scooter sales so far in 2017 are up by +4.56 percent at 104,935 units for the first nine months.
The organisers claim that 2016 saw big increases in exhibitor and visitor numbers, including “trade visitors”, but such data that is released by the EICMA administration makes it difficult to authenticate such claims. Indeed, most exhibitors (Italian and international) that IDN spoke with last year thought that attendance (trade and consumer) and, in particular international trade attendance, was down on 2015, and that it has been steadily in decline at EICMA for some years.
Certainly the many open spaces seen in the halls in 2016 suggested that the available exhibitor footprint had continued to contract.
Despite an initial attempt to add another public day to the show, it follows its usual schedule this year of two press and (theoretically) trade/preview days (November 7 & 8), followed by four public attendance days (November 9 through 12).

UK motorcycle registrations

UK motorcycle registrations -15.38 percent January - September

The latest data released by the MCIA (Motorcycle Industry Association) in the UK shows new motorcycle registrations down by -24.04 percent (11,276 units) in September, following a -18.54 percent (6,200 units) decline in August. On a year-to-date basis the UK market is -15.38 percent (79,605 units YTD).

Moped sales were -16.22 percent in September and are running at -20.16 percent year-to-date (5,256 units). In total PTW terms, the UK was down -23.52 percent in September (12,159 units in total; -17.95 percent/6,793 units in August) and the UK market is running at -15.70 percent YTD (84,861 units).
‘Naked’ style bikes remain the most popular in the UK (25,750 units YTD, which is relative growth compared to other styles of bikes at -9.4 percent in a market that is down -15.38 percent overall), followed by Adventure Sport models (15,357 units YTD, up by +0.5 percent). The UK scooter market has seen sales drop by -28.4 percent YTD (14.740 units) and the historically dominant Supersport market is down -26.2 percent (8,062 units YTD).
Honda was overall market share leader in September (motorcycles and scooters), having sold 2,845 units, followed by Yamaha (1,581) and Triumph (1,005). The top-selling motorcycle in the UK in September was Honda’s CRF 1000 Africa Twin.

Kiara Fontanesi

Fifth WMX world title for Kiara Fontanesi

It has been another big season for 23-year old Italian rider Kiara Fontanesi, and for her sponsors – not least UFO Plast, PBR Sprockets and Vertex Pistons.
Having won the WMX FIM World Championship title for four straight years from 2012 to 2015, Kiara added a fifth title this year on board her Yamaha in a final race season finale after a series of high drama, with four riders eventually separated by just a few points.
In terrible muddy conditions at the final race (the Grand Prix of Pays de Montbeliard at the Villars sous Ecot track in France), Kiara sealed her position as the most successful female motocross athlete in the history of the sport, winning the championship by one point ahead of Livia Lancelot and two points ahead of Courtney Duncan and Nancy Van De Ven.
“This season was very challenging and especially this last race,” said Kiara Fontanesi after the win, “because riding for the world title with so much mud was really difficult. I tried hard and bring the race to the end, and even if I got only one point distance, I did it. Unfortunately, our World Championship has only six races, and it is difficult to make a consistent point difference, so four riders arrived at the end separated only by five lengths.”

For PBR, who provided her front and rear sprockets and Japanese EK chains, it has been a golden year with the Italian and world championships won as a result of a partnership that has lasted for years. “Thanks to the availability of the PBR engineers at the beginning of the season we had been able to try a number of different sprocket measures that gave me benefits in certain tracks and in different situations,” Kiara said. “I am delighted with how their products have performed and with the back-up and support that PBR have given me. I always felt like part of their family.”

For Vertex Pistons this is the latest in a long and proud heritage of race success. Kiara spoke about the Vertex Piston contribution, affirming how it was crucial because it strongly contributed to the competitiveness of her YZ250F. “The Vertex pistons were a great help, because when we mounted them, we had some important improvements in performance: power had a considerable increase from the middle up rpm range, and it remained reliable all season. Whenever I needed that edge it was there - we never encountered any problems.”
Brand new this year, and winner of an IDN ‘Hot 100’ new product award for 2017, this was a first world title for the UFO Plast ‘Diamond’ helmet – so named because the shell shape resembles a diamond and is made with a high percentage of carbon (60 percent) mixed with Aramid fibres for high strength and light weight.
“I immediately liked the ‘Diamond’ helmet for its aesthetics,” Kiara commented, “but I liked the fit and the comfort too. It’s perfect, and also the opaque black graphics we’ve chosen in my opinion are beautiful for the new helmet shell. We made a great step forward.”

And she’s not the only one to make a great step forward – UFO Plast have played their “A-Game” with their ‘Diamond’ helmet with features that include stiffening ribs to optimise shock absorption and impact energy dissipation; a Rotation Impact Absorbing System (RIAS); a main inner shell in high density EPS that has a very compact, rigid outer surface (in contact with the outer shell) and inner surface with large grooves that provide greater airflow and differential impact force dissipation, with the inner oscillating shell consisting of low density polypropylene foam (PPE) to provide gradual absorption designed to rotate inside the helmet, working in conjunction with the main inner shell. This system enables multi-directional sliding that also dissipates the energy associated with rotational acceleration, to improve protection in case of rotational impact.

www.ufoplast.it
www.vertexpistons.com
www.pbr.it

AIMExpo2017 Review Part 1

Akrapovic: Recent new products from the Slovenian manufacturer include titanium full systems or slip-ons for the CBR1000RR, GSX-R 1000R, YZF-R6, CRF450R; www.akrapovic.com

 

Falco Motorcycle Boots: Distributed in the USA by Pacific Powersports, new lines this year include the ‘Ranger’ urban vintage boot and new CE approved ‘Jackal Air’ riding shoe, featuring a “Micro-Synth” perforated upper combined with D30 shock-absorbing ankle inserts and low-profile rubber outsole; www.giannifalco.com

 

Nitron Racing: The British shock absorber and front suspension cartridge manufacturer recently added the Ducati Scrambler to its list of Tri-Valve technology front suspension upgrade options and released adjustable shocks for Yamaha’s equally popular MT-10. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in England’s famed ‘Motorsport Valley’, Nitron use nitrogen gas to keep the damper fluid under pressure for performance that is far more temperature stable and feel that is more consistent for longer under heavy or prolonged use. Nitron shocks feature a full range of adjustable features from rebound damping to fully adjustable independent high/low speed compression – with a far wider and more linear range of adjustment than the OE units they replace. The company use 14 or 16 mm induction-hardened, super polished piston rods, a progressive cellular bump stop, Teflon lined “Ultimate Low Friction” spherical bearings and a “FLEXaLIGHT” coated silicone steel spring; www.nitron.co.uk

 

Design Engineering Inc: Recent new products from the Avon Lake, Ohio based thermal and acoustic barrier specialist include ‘Titanium’ exhaust wrap in a sleeve and Generation III exhaust heat shields; www.deipowersports.com

 

Heidenau Tires: Distributed in the USA by Moto Amore (John Bettencourt), the company 
was founded in 1946 and started to make tyres in 1952, exclusively producing two-wheeler tyres under the Pneumant brand from 1959. Production of Pneumant finished in 1993, with Reifenwerk Heidenau GmbH & Co. KG established with a focus on the production of two-wheeler, kart and special purpose tyres that continues to this day with a range of 550 designs for most applications; www.reifenwerk-heidenau.de

 

Kappa: Recent new products include the KV29 Philadelphia jet helmet, KV30 full face “enduro style” helmet, kit for Yamaha Tracer 700, ‘Black Line’ cases for Honda’s CRF 1000 ‘Africa Twin’ and luggage and accessories kits for current top sellers, including Yamaha’s ‘Tracer’ 700; www.kappamoto.com

 

National Cycle: The well-known Maywood, Illinois-based screen manufacturer celebrates a significant milestone this year – the 80th anniversary of founder Gordon Willey opening the doors of ‘The Nation’s Cycle Center’ in 1937, the business that evolved and successfully grew into the OE and aftermarket manufacturer we know today. Still under the family ownership of the founder’s descendants, National Cycle is internationally respected for the ZTechnik hardcoated polycarbonate windshields, quick release mount systems, multi-adjustable and tilting windshields for UTVs and motorcycles, and noted for its proprietary Quantum Hardcoating technology and aeroacoustic VStream windscreen designs; www.nationalcycle.com, www.ztechnik.com

 

Nexx Helmets: The Portuguese manufacturer’s 2018 line-up will be available for dealers in November, and from the highlights teased so far, it looks like Retro is their “new black”. As part of the X.GARAGE Collection, there will be the off-road, X.G 200 helmet, along with a backpack, a facemask and a complete line of off-road retro-inspired goggles. Also new for the adventure segment is the new X.WED 2 helmet;  www.nexx-helmets.com

Spanish motorcycle registrations

Spanish motorcycle registrations
-8.03 percent 

According to the latest data available from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, new motorcycle registrations were down by -14.37 percent in September (12,389 units), having been -3.21 percent in August (10,479 units), and are -8.03 percent for the first nine months of 2017 (105,230 YTD).

Overall, total PTW registrations in September were -11.07 percent (14,458 units), having been marginally up at +0.28 percent in August, and are -5.01 percent for the YTD at 120,834 units in total.
In moped terms, September was +14.44 percent (2,069 units sold) and are +21.93 percent for the year to date at 15,604 units. The growth is largely due to the increases seen in the ‘RAB Channel’ (Rent-a-Bike scheme purchases), which was +34 percent in September and has seen growth of +107.6 percent in unit terms through August.
General Secretary of ANESDOR Jose Maria Riano says that “the six months of decline in new motorcycle registrations that we have now seen are due to the lack of plans and measures to encourage the acquisition of new vehicles and the ongoing impacts of the introduction of the Euro 4 emissions regulations on January 1.” The average age of the motorcycle fleet in Spain is one of the oldest in Europe at 15.6 years.

Stat Facts

ITALY
Scooter sales so far in 2017 are up by +4.56 percent at 104,935 units for the first nine months, with Honda’s SH125/150/300 variants taking a 25 percent scooter market share between them (26,299 units).

The top-selling motorcycle is BMW’s all conquering R 1200 GS (3,387 units YTD), followed by Honda’s Africa Twin (2,806 units), the Honda NC750 X (2,210 units), Yamaha’s Tracer 900 (2,056 units) and Ducati’s 800 cc Scrambler (2,043 units). 

Honda’s X-ADV 750 Enduro style Scooter outsold their Africa Twin and is second only to the R 1200 GS if classed as a motorcycle, with 2,949 units sold in the first nine months
of 2017.

JAPAN
Japanese made 250cc+ exports to Europe in August +37.99% at 8,848 units, having been +36.05 % (11,589 units) in July.
 
+24.28% at 147,259 units so far in 2017 (to August).

Total PTW exports to Europe +20.40% (157,425 units) in first eight months of 2017.

Motorcycle exports to USA +28.88% at 18,004 units for first eight months of year.

Worldwide PTW exports +12.05% for the first eight months of the year (310,856 units).

SWEDEN
Motorcycle sales -2.52% in September; +10.32% for YTD (10,145 units). Sweden was +8% in 2016 at 10,178 units for the year.

Mopeds +17.24% YTD (11,506 units).

FRANCE
Some 72% (80,369) of the motorcycles sold in France for the period January to August 2017 were of 250cc or greater.

The 1000 cc plus market was worth 25,127 units (22.5% of all 125cc+ motorcycle sales so far in 2017).

SWITZERLAND
Motorcycle sales +1.51 YTD (24,875 units).

Yamaha market share leader at 4,461 units; BMW 2nd with 4,093 units; H-D 3rd, 2,675 units.

MT-07 top selling motorcycle at 1,140 units; Z 650 2nd, 740 units; BMW F 700 GS 3rd, 715 units.

Total PTW -17.58% in month 9 (3,273 units); -1.05% YTD (41,178 units).

TMV (Techno Motor Veghel)

REVO off-road

TMV distributes Canadian FXR MX gear

Founded in 1996 in Canada by MX racer turned powersports dealer Milt Reimer, the fast growing FXR apparel range is imported into Europe by specialist off-road distributor TMV (Techno Motor Veghel) in the Netherlands.
Their 2018 MX gear range features jerseys, pants, gloves, helmets, boots and goggles. Three ranges are offered: the ‘MISSION’ collection, the ‘CLUTCH Prime’ collection, FXR’s entry level programme, and the ‘REVO’ line (seen here), their top-of-the range premium gear programme, described as “putting the rider first, with a focus on ergonomic fit and ultra-light weight performance.”
The REVO off-road line “takes our industry-leading fit and performance and brings it into the off-road market, using our tested lightweight performance fabrics with an ultra-clean design”. The REVO jersey is a slim fit, lightweight polyester-spandex mesh “for superior air flow and comfort, along with proprietary moisture-wicking yarns that provide quick-dry performance.”

REVO

The REVO pants use the same tailored approach, with innovative 4-way stretch poly/span lightweight fabric thigh panels and 600D fabric leg construction. “This gives even the most demanding riders the benefits of ultra-light weight and durability all in one.”
The ‘MISSION’ line is FXR’s mid-level gear line – “with a focus on performance fit and durability”, while the entry level ‘CLUTCH Prime’ collection is designed “with performance and value in mind.”
Reimer says that “from the get go, our vision was to provide MX and motocross riders with premium high-performance gear. Whether you are on the podium at the X-games or a weekend warrior, FXR has the gear that will help you perform at your best.”

www.tmv.nl

Wunderlich

Wunderlich just don’t think Beemers should stay ‘stock’!

Motorcycle accessories specialist Wunderlich believes that the current BMW R 1200 R and RS are lacking a stylish rear, so the Sinzig, Germany based manufacturer is offering to help you replace the “ungainly” raised original licence plate and indicator holders at the back of both Boxers with a discreet, form-fitting cover. 

This can be combined with either the Sport or Kardan licence plate holder from the Wunderlich range. Various LED indicator combinations are also available. Thanks to the optional indicator holder, however, the original indicators can still be used.
Meanwhile, if it’s a R 1200 GS that you want to update, Wunderlich has you covered with an extensive programme of parts that fit both the 2017 GS and GS Adventure.
The line includes effective engine and tank protection brackets, cylinder protectors, crash pads, stable engine protection designs, various ERGO seats with and without seat heating for drivers and passengers, handlebar risers and footrest claddings, and various windscreens and wind deflectors. 

Wunderlich also offers luggage solutions such as high-quality pannier systems, including with cut-out for the exhaust muffler, cleverly designed tank backpacks, and multi-functional handlebar, top case and crash bar bags.
Finally, Wunderlich don’t think the K 1600 GT should stay stock either! A handlebar riser of 15mm not only lets the rider sit in a more relaxed and more upright position, it also gives greater freedom of movement – “the perfect symbiosis of ergonomic touring seat position and relaxed long-distance travel suitability. The significantly relieved posture also noticeably improves the riding sensation as well as the handling of the K.”
The silver anodised components of the handlebar riser are individually milled from high-strength Dural aluminium. The two-piece set is easy to install, comes with a set of screws and ABE. Wunderlich says all its components are designed to be easy to mount, are made entirely in Germany and come with a five-year guarantee. 

WUNDERLICH GmbH
www.wunderlich.de

Wunderlich_Heckumbau_06_38982-102.jpg – pars 1-2
Wunderlich_R_1200_GS_LC_05.jpg – pars 3-5
Wunderlich_Lenkererhoehung_K1600GT_03.jpg – pars 6-7

KTM Industries

KTM: “Strong growth in first six months”

KTM Industries AG, the parent company of KTM, Husqvarna and WP Suspension, has reported revenues of € 758.8 m for the first six months of 2017, +12 percent on the first half of 2016.

 
With a record 110,518 units for the period, motorcycle sales were + 11 percent over the first half of 2017 – “further strengthening our position as Europe’s largest motorcycle producer.”

The company says that after taking into account the budgeted costs of starting up their drivetrain production plant, the operating earnings (EBIT) of the first half 2017 are above the budget expectations and with € 65.8 m slightly below the previous year’s figure of € 69.6 m (-5%). The EBITDA is € 105.8 m and above the figures of the previous year.
“In the first half year 2017 the investment programme at the Austrian sites was continued,” the company says. “The sustainably high investments into the serial production development represent an essential success factor for the present and future success of the KTM Industries Group. Due to the strong production growth, an additional 417 employees were hired in the first half of 2017; 401 of them based in Austria.”
For the second half of 2017, the company expects a “continuing positive growth trend like in the first half year. In the 2017 financial year, the KTM Industries Group consistently focuses on organic growth in its core areas through further expansion of its market shares and global growth. The further development of cooperative technology projects and more intensive utilisation of synergy potentials will be driven forward within the Group divisions.”
The Management Board expects consolidated revenues of over € 1.5 bn and operating EBIT of over € 130 m for the 2017 full financial year.

BMW Motorrad

BMW sales increase by 9.5% to 88,389 vehicles in the first half of 2017

BMW Motorrad sold more motorcycles and maxi-scooters in the first six months of 2017 than ever before – a fifth consecutive record. Compared to the previous year, deliveries increased by 9.5%. As of June 2017, a total of 88,389 vehicles (previous year: 80,754 units) were supplied to customers. 

Stephan Schaller, General Director of BMW Motorrad: “For all of us at BMW Motorrad it is a great pleasure and a confirmation of all our efforts that our customers continue to show us that we are on the right track with our model initiative.”
The strongest growth was recorded on the European markets with increases in France (9,447 units/previous year 7,790 units), Italy (9,099 units/previous year 7,912 units), Spain (5,573 units/previous year 5,133 units) and UK/IE (5,410 units/previous year 4.746 units). Overall around 12.9% more vehicles were delivered in Europe, including Germany, than in the previous year.
The South American market is showing considerable growth potential for BMW Motorrad with a dynamic increase in sales - compared to the equivalent period of the previous year, deliveries increased by +16.3% to 8,306 units; sales in China were also significantly higher than in the previous year (2,836 units/+18.8%).
The German motorcycle market remains the single biggest for BMW with 14,461 units sold, +4.9 percent; BMW is overall market share leader in Germany.
In the US, BMW achieved a further increase by +3.8% with 7,157 units in the first six months of the year.
The highest-volume model series is the R Series. They achieved a sales share of 49,240 units in the first half of 2017. The two Travel Enduros R 1200 GS and GS Adventure lead the list of their top sellers. The R 1200 GS alone achieved +17.3%, with 17,159 units sold in the first half of 2017.
The sports-oriented BMW S Series with the S 1000 RR Supersports bike, the S 1000 R Power Roadster and the S 1000 XR Adventure bike are a key pillar in the BMW Motorrad model range in 2017, too. Overall 12,763 S models were delivered worldwide.
A further key factor for BMW Motorrad’s success in the first six months was the R nineT family, which now includes five models. The currently latest member of the popular heritage family, the R nineT Urban GS, was launched successfully as recently as June.

Yamaha

Yamaha Tokyo Motor Show Concepts

Always a show case for the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer’s latest future-thinking, under the theme of the “Yamaha Future Garage: Resonate the Future,” the 45th Tokyo Motor Show (October 27 to November 5) will see Yamaha unveil four concept demonstrators and prototypes ...

MOTOROiD (Reference vehicle)
In order to bring people new experiences of Kando (*) this experimental machine “employs artificial intelligence and explores the feasibility of concepts for creating new forms of personal mobility in which the rider resonates harmoniously with machine”. MOTOROiD’s development concept was an “Unleashed Prototype,” and it is capable of recognizing its owner and interacting in other capacities like a living creature. “By undertaking these kinds of development challenges, Yamaha is aiming to acquire technology for creating new value for our customers”.
*Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value.

MOTOBOT 2.0 (Technology exhibit)
This autonomous motorcycle-riding robot combines the latest in motorcycle and robotics technology, and is helping “pioneer previously unexplored realms of motorcycle R&D”. Focusing on operation of the machine from a rider’s standpoint, without making any fundamental modifications to the motorcycle itself, MOTOBOT is now capable of riding at high speeds around a racetrack. The project goals set for 2017 were to clear the milestone of hitting over 200 kilometers per hour on a racetrack and to challenge MotoGP star Valentino Rossi to a battle of lap times. “The complex underlying technologies and knowledge gained from the MOTOBOT project will be applied toward creating new value in our existing businesses as well as toward pioneering new businesses”. 

MWC-4 (Reference vehicle)
Looking to “expand upon the possibilities for personal mobility stemming from motorcycles”, this Leaning Multi-Wheel (LMW) vehicle has two wheels front and rear and was developed under the concept of “Half-Sized Mobility.” The MWC-4 is powered by an electric motor equipped with a range-extender and uses attitude-control technology, giving it a ride that feels like nothing else and a level of comfort not found with a conventional motorcycle. “This is all expressed with styling inspired by the features of both motorcycles and musical instruments”.

YPJ-XC (Reference vehicle)
This model is a new proposal for Yamaha’s YPJ Series that brings “new value to electrically power-assisted bicycles (e-bikes)”. Based on the YPJ-MTB Concept model exhibited Tokyo in 2015, the YPJ-XC “mounts our latest PW-X drive unit and is much closer to a production-ready model. In addition, three more YPJ Series models will be on display, all mounting the PW-SE drive unit highly acclaimed in Europe for more power and a larger capacity battery: the YPJ-ER “crossover” (multi-purpose) road bike, the YPJ-EC flat-bar road bike and the YPJ-TC touring (trekking) bike”.

Rainers

‘Snake’ racing gloves

New from Rainers in Spain, these cow’s leather ‘Snake’ racing and sports gloves feature TPU protectors on the knuckles and scaphoid bones to protect these exposed areas. 

High-resistance Superfabric ensures protection, and a 250 g Kevlar sheet has been included to guarantee top protection on the upper and inside parts, along with Coolmax fabric to allow perspiration absorption on the inner hand.

RAINERS SPORTS
www.rainers-sports.com

SC-Project

Italian performance for BMW S1000RR

SC-Project has three different road legal Euro4 silencers for the “German beast” – their S1, CR-T and GP70-R – “three racing-native silencers improved to meet the strict Euro4 standards.”

The CR-T silencer is available in four different versions: full titanium, matt carbon fibre, full titanium with titanium mesh or matt carbon fibre with titanium mesh. Weighing 3.73 kg lighter than the original muffler, the company says they deliver increased performance throughout the entire rpm range, especially +7hp and +6Nm at 8.000 rpm.

Their GP70-R silencer is made in full titanium, starting from the link pipe right through to “the mighty outlet mouth of the silencer”, which gives a remarkable weight saving of 3.70kg lighter than the factory silencer, with increases in power and torque, especially at medium range, +7 hp and +6 Nm at 8,000 rpm. 
Described as delivering a “deep and moody sound”, the S1 silencer’s body is made in full titanium with “conical structure and has a first quality matt carbon fibre end cap.” This design is 3.53kg lighter and gives the bike an extra 5 hp and 4 Nm at 8,000 rpm.

SC-PROJECT
www.sc-project.com

Evotech

Ducati Multistrada 1200 tail tidy kit

Italian manufacturer Evotech has designed this new tail tidy kit specifically for the Ducati Multistrada, compatible with the 1200/S/Enduro/Pikes Peak variants.

The unique design is completely machined from high strength, lightweight billet aluminium and available in anodised red or black. The company says it delivers a performance enhancing weight saving over the factory design and that it starts life as a 27kg billet and is then milled down to a 700g finished product.
It replicates the mounts of the original license plate holder, so there is no need to modify anything for the assembly. The complete kit includes the aluminium undertail, specific plate support for the number plate of each country, supports for indicators and all needed hardware. A rear reflector and LED light with specific Ducati connector are also available as optional extras.

EVOTECH S.R.L.
www.evotech-rc.it

Motorex

Motorex ‘Cross Power’ 2T - KTM’s “oil of choice” for new fuel injected 2-strokers

Congratulations to Swiss high-performance oil blender Motorex for being first out of the gate with a new product release for KTM’s new fuel injected 2-stroke off-roaders.
Motorex says its tried and tested fully synthetic ‘Cross Power’ 2T “is the ideal oil for the new KTM 250/300 EXC TPI (Transfer Port Injection) machines”.
KTM has traditionally recommended Motorex products, relying on them for all its models. Motorex say that ‘Cross Power’ 2T is a racing quality product that reduces combustion residues and is “suitable for even the toughest of off-road tracks. It was only logical that Motorex was involved in the development of the two new TPI 2-stroke models as we have cooperated closely with KTM since 2003, both on serial-produced bikes and in moto racing.
“Apart from the initial filling, in every machine that leaves the KTM factory at Mattighofen, Austria, the cooperation also includes MotoGP activities – we support KTM's involvement in the elite class of motorcycle racing as their technology partner.
“The two new 250 and 300cc EXC TPI models are the world’s first competition enduros with 2-stroke fuel injection. The new technology has various advantages over carburetor engines, including a further efficiency increase, lower emissions and even smoother engine power output. It also renders the pre-mixing of fuel and lubricant normally required for carburetor motors just as obsolete as adjusting the jetting needle for different external conditions”.
Motorex ‘Cross Power’ 2T is available in an award-winning 1-litre container with integrated filler neck and 4, 25 and 60 litre containers.

MOTOREX
www.motorex.com

Touratech

Field-tested skid plates

These new field-tested “Rallye” and “Rally Extreme” skid plates from Touratech “combine modern production techniques with a unique design for the best possible protection of the entire engine area. In the toughest test conditions, the “Rally Extreme” version demonstrated its qualities on the Touratech Africa Twin RR, the winning bike in the 2016 Hellas Rally in Greece.

The unique design of the 4mm thick aluminium part “guarantees effective protection and high stability and gives the bike a sporty, modern look. Thanks to a new deep-draw manufacturing process, there are no disturbing welds, which are often considered to be a vulnerable point. The recesses on the underside provide the shock-absorbing and lightweight aluminium with a robust stiffness. Additionally, the two parallel recesses allow the bike to almost glide over obstacles. This way, the energy of the impact is effectively dissipated, preventing jamming or snagging”.
The “Rallye” skid plate is available in anodised black and bare aluminium finishes for the Honda Africa Twin CRF 1000L and soon also for the BMW R 1200 GS (LC) / Adventure (LC) and the KTM models 1050 Adventure, 1190 Adventure/R and 1290 Super Adventure.
For the Africa Twin, Touratech has two sizes - a standard size, which also works with DCT or standard bikes with crash bars installed, while the larger Extreme version for manual transmission bikes has increased coverage area, eliminating the need for lower crash bars. “It is designed to withstand really tough use with the lowest possible weight”, according to the leading German adventure riding specialist.

TOURATECH AG
www.touratech.com

AIMExpo 2017

AIMExpo’s Columbus, Ohio, debut a success with Harley and Polaris CEOs pointing to need to work together to promote motorcycle ownership to new generations as MIC unveils new ‘Ride’ initiative …

The fifth annual MIC (Motorcycle Industry Council) AIMExpo made a promising debut at Columbus, Ohio, in September, after four years at Orlando, Florida, with some 500 or so exhibitors from all sectors of the motorcycle and wider powersports industry being generally satisfied with the attendance, even if nobody there ‘was able to pull up trees’ in business-done terms.
The show had the backing of most of the top selling OEs in America, and many of those who wish to become so, and the choice of venue was especially popular with the V-twin parts and accessory industry in the United States – a market that was boosted by the participation of both Indian Motorcycle and Harley-Davidson for the first time.
There were more new product offerings on show than IDN had expected to see, especially given the pressure that new product development budgets are coming under in a U.S. market best described as “soft” in new model registration and parts and accessory sales terms. However, that may also be a timing consideration.

MIC’s Tim Buche revealed the new RiDE initiative, a broad industry programme to offer an impactful first-ride experience in a partnership with Feld Entertainment that will see first experiences offered at 11 Monster Jam Truck events in 2018

Although common sense dictates that the fall is the most logical timing for a market whose distributor inventory decisions and catalogue cycles place a premium on being ready early, the domestic U.S. parts and accessory industry has not always been one where common sense has been King.
The parts, accessory and apparel industry in America has always been geared towards launching new products in January and February, which is historically peak season for trade shows closer to peak cash cycle, and with the three leading importer/distributors now focussing their own events at that time and placing vendor expo budgets under ever increasing pressure in a declining market, achieving the worthy objective of bringing the aftermarket more in line with OE new model cycles may continue to be a challenge, especially as logistics and dealer inventories continue to be shaped by increasing online ordering.
The mid-western United States has always been the V-twin heartland of the American motorcycle industry, and although the organisers have confirmed a return to Columbus in September 2019 after a year in Las Vegas (October 11-14) in 2018, many V-twin-specific exhibitors were concerned that momentum could be lost without a firm long-term commitment to the Midwest.
The ‘metric’, and especially the off-road and ATV/UTV/SxS (side-by-side vehicle) markets in the U.S., will view Las Vegas favourably however, and the hope is that the show will have an opportunity to exploit the attendance of OE dealers should they decide to start co-locating their annual dealer conventions with AIMExpo. Whilst that would have been an anathema to the OE community in years past, through the MIC they now, effectively speaking, own the show, and doing so would be in keeping with the new spirit of working together for the long-term greater good.
Regardless of where the MIC decides to host AIMExpo after 2019, the organisers have acknowledged that they need to continue to work on the attendance. The two-day trade, followed by two public/trade weekend days, is largely popular with exhibitors and certainly marks a radical new formula for American shows.
When the event was first announced in 2012 (2013 was the first year for the show), the organisers (former MIC man Larry Little and show veteran Mike Webster) said they wanted to bring the “European style” of joint industry and consumer expo attendance to the United States show scene for the first time.

Matt Levatich, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson, pointed to a future in which “it’s all about the software not the hardware, and the software is the consumers whose world is defined by their screens”

While the overall objective does appear to be working, with dealer and consumer attendances appearing to grow or at least hold steady each year, many exhibitors were suggesting that another day could be lopped off the four days (it was originally five days), with one trade day being sufficient, based on current dealer attendance.
That may well be true, but it misses the point. As is the case internationally, securing dealer attendances at shows is a notoriously challenging ambition, not least in the United States and especially so, as it happens, the further west an event is being staged. The objective of all involved, exhibitors and organisers alike, should indeed be to work together, and in this instance work at attracting show visitors of all kinds.
At five years, it is still early days for the show in attendance terms. Many recall the heydays of the Dealer Expo at Indianapolis and the V-Twin Expo at Cincinnati (which has now announced that it has closed its doors permanently) when the aisles were packed and the organisers were citing (always exaggerated) visitor numbers in excess of 10,000. The truth is that the core dealer attendance at those shows was never much more than a couple of thousand of stores being represented at best, with the headline numbers boosted by ‘fellow travellers’ from the shop or friends of the owner and “best customers”.
It also has to be acknowledged that the number of retail outlets that could benefit from attending a trade show was a lot more a decade ago than it is now.
What is more, wherever such shows are staged in the United States, the industry and consumer attendance was always largely regional. In which respect, Columbus has much to commend itself as a permanent venue for the show. The organisers say that some 41% of franchised and independent motorcycle dealers in the United States are located within a 500 mile radius of America’s 14th largest and still fast growing city, with 50% of the entire U.S. population also located within a 500 mile radius.

Scott Wine, CEO of Polaris, pointed to the investment in technology as being the pathway to develop products that will speak to digital generations

Based on the results regularly seen when exhibitors and dealers are researched about their trade show venue preferences, the temptation to flirt with the western and south-western markets must be strong for the organisers. However, the further west you go in the continental U.S., historically the less inclined motorcycle dealers are to attend trade events.
Given the importance of the off-road motorcycle and wider powersports sectors to the overall market in the United States, and the fact that Adventure Tourers, ATV, UTV and SxS sales are the only growing sectors currently, it may well be that the OEs (who now largely drive show policy), will want to cater to the south-west. In which case, an alternate annual east/west cycle makes sense -  maybe dropping anchor at Las Vegas for the non-Columbus years (or perhaps, better still, exploit the larger hinterland at Phoenix, Arizona).
Either way, the date proximity to INTERMOT every other year is a misjudgement. If AIMExpo wants to get serious about attracting more European/international vendors in those years, they need a date that places them equidistant between INTERMOT and EICMA in the years when both those shows are being staged, unless the judgement is that proximity to OE dealer convention timing outweighs international considerations. In which case, I would suggest that the OEs themselves need to finesse their own scheduling if, after all, all parts of the industry are to work together in perfect harmony.

Suzuki

Suzuki Q1 Europe sales -12.8%

Suzuki saw worldwide motorcycle (and ATV) sales grow in the first quarter of the 2017/2018 financial year (the period to end of June 2017) by +13.1 percent to 378,000 units (4,000 of which were ATVs).

However, in Europe sales were down by -12.8 percent at 15,000 units from 17,000 for the year ago quarter. In North America they sold 11,000 units, up by +11.0 percent.
Sales in Asia were +19.1 percent at 295,000 units in total, with domestic Japanese demand up by +33.3 percent (19,000 units). India remains Suzuki’s largest market, where they sold 109,000 units in the period to June 30, 2017, +50.7 percent, with China, their second largest market, down by -5.1 percent at 93,000 units. Bucking the market trend there, Suzuki sales were +137.0 percent in Indonesia (21,000 units).
Motorcycle production worldwide was up by +14.9 percent (381,000 units), with 123,000 of those made in China and 113,000 made in India.
On a worldwide basis, Suzuki’s consolidated net sales of motorcycles generated 61.6 Bn yen in net sales revenue, up by +21.6 percent over their first quarter of 2016. European sales generated 14.5 Bn yen, up by +18 percent.
Overall corporate consolidated net sales were 869,313m yen for the quarter, +13.26 percent on Q1 2016. Net income generated was 77,775m yen, +40 percent.

Australia motorcycle registrations

Australia motorcycles -4.1 percent Q2

According to the latest data published by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) in Australia, there are signs of improvement in the registrations of new motorcycles there, with the second quarter down by -4.1 percent (compared to -13.1 percent for Q1).
The April to June sales period recovered some of the ground lost in the first quarter of 2017 when sales dipped by -6.7 percent, fuelling industry expectations for a positive second half outcome. Half-yearly sales for 2017 totalled 50,908 compared with 53,084 for the same January - June period in 2016.
Last year the Australian motorcycle industry recorded total sales of 114,783, its best annual result since 2009.
Both the road and off-road segments declined during the first half of 2017, with road bikes down -12.8 percent (20,118 units), while the off-road segment recovered sharply in Q2 and i now running only -1.7 per cent behind the YTD 2016 results (16,359 units).
The ATV/SSV market has seen continued strong growth in the first half, producing a +12.3 per cent increase in sales over the same period in 2016 (12,537 units); Honda is market share leader. Scooter sales, which have been in decline for several years, continued down at -14.4 per cent compared with Jan-June 2016 (1,894 units); Piaggio is market share leader.
Harley-Davidson narrowly retained its top-selling status overall among the road bikes with 4,433 sales for the first half, followed by Honda (4,201 sales) and Yamaha (2,865).
The top-selling manufacturer in the off-road category was Yamaha with 4,617 sales, followed by Honda with 4,359 sales and KTM with 2,834.
Overall, Honda is Australia’s top-selling overall motorcycle and powersports brand with 12,608 sales (YTD 2017), followed by Yamaha (9,827 sales), Kawasaki (4,567) and Harley-Davidson (4,433).

Nitron Racing Systems

Kashima Parallel

Tri-Valve Ducati Scrambler
fork cartridge kit

British suspension specialist Nitron Racing Systems has a new fork cartridge upgrade kit for the Ducati Scrambler.
Primarily designed to complement and work with Nitron’s NTR shock upgrades, their TVT fork cartridge kits are said to offer the same level of improvements in rider control, performance and comfort “that have become the trademark of the Nitron product range.”
The system features a large bore 25mm piston “which provides significant improvements in performance over the OEM set-up and ensures consistency during prolonged periods of use.” All vital components are hard anodised with the option to specify ultra-low friction Kashima coating if desired.
Developed and tested in conjunction with some of the world’s leading race teams, independent adjustment control of rebound and compression damping are said to be both easy to use and extremely effective.
The damping control system consists of an adjustable compression cartridge for installation into the left fork leg and an adjustable rebound cartridge for the right fork leg. Both offer independent damping and preload adjustment via the uniquely styled fork top caps – a third high speed damping valve incorporated into the compression cartridge.
The valve is pre-set to react to high speed and hard edge bumps which normally unsettle a well damped set-up, especially when combined with hard braking and cornering forces. The result is described as “a balance of performance, stability and compliance, which give very high levels of rider confidence and ultimate control.”
All three valve pistons can be quickly and easily removed for revalving without the need to remove the forks from the bike, keeping workshop time to a minimum and meaning trackside changes and set-up can be done with ease.

NTR TVT RACE

Nitron say that “SuperBike riders have praised the ability of the TVT cartridges as they have felt confidence increase to new levels and lap times tumble. Probably just as impressive as the on-track ability is just how adaptable the Tri-Valve Technology is for road use, giving all levels of riders the confidence to make adjustments to achieve a more usable and more capable bike.”

The standard specification features a large bore 25mm piston, “ensuring consistency throughout prolonged use,” independent rebound, compression and pre-load, damping adjustment, unique Nitron designed fork caps, TVT high-speed damping valve in the compression cartridge, easy piston removal for trackside revalving and set-up changes, hard anodised components for extended longevity of parts and Kashima coating upgrade option (TVT Pro).

NITRON RACING SYSTEMS
www.nitron.co.uk

Falco Motorcycle Boots

Italian safety and style

Falco Motorcycle Boots of Italy has introduced a new urban vintage boot for 2017 called ‘Ranger’, it is designed to offer riders those two often incompatible objectives, “safety and style”.

“We have combined optimum safety and support without compromising on aesthetics”, says Falco. “The ‘Ranger’ has the appearance of a vintage all-rounder, but underneath the design features toe and heel reinforcements and “D3O” backed ankle cups.
“In all different conditions of use, the full grain leather upper with denim textile inserts and High-Tex inner liner membrane will support the foot, maximising water repellence and breathability. The heavy-duty classic “Goodyear” stitched Vibram rubber sole helps to maintain optimal control on the bike’s footpegs.
“The practical double-closure system with zip and laces with hidden pocket storage and the CE certification are the additional technical details that characterise this Italian quality product”.
Available in EU sizing 41 to 47 and in 3 contemporary colour combinations (dark brown, camel brown and matt black), all with spare coloured laces to match the rider’s “vintage riding mood”.

GIANNI FALCO Srl
www.giannifalco.com