Kawasaki

Kawasaki sales up

Kawasaki posted results for 2017/18 fourth quarter and full financial year ended 31 March 2018, with total net sales up at 1,574,242 m yen and corporate profits up at 28,915 m yen.
Total sales in its Motorcycle and Engine division were up at 332,328 m yen, with net sales reported at +6 percent at 331,659 m yen (Kawasaki’s Motorcycle and Engine unit accounts for some 21 percent of overall corporate net sales).
Total divisional unit sales were 560,000 units – 152,000 in developed markets, 342,000 units in emerging markets.
The company says that the “moderate growth of motorcycle markets in developed countries continues” and that the decline in demand for motorcycles in emerging markets is “bottoming out”.

Moto Future

It is reported that MV Agusta is planning to bring back its Cagiva brand as an E-Bike, possibly as early as for the 2019 model year, with an announcement later this year at EICMA.

Japanese E-Bike manufacturer Mugen will race three Shinden Nana electric Superbikes at the Isle of Man TT Zero race as they go in search of a fifth straight and seventh overall win – with 2018 improvements said to include reduced mass and increased capacity as the performance of lithium-ion batteries gets ever better with less mass and greater capacity.

Less than 5 percent of the vehicles on Europe’s roads are “commercial vehicles” (vans, trucks etc) but estimates suggest that nearly 20 percent of European greenhouse gas emissions from all vehicles are from “commercials”.

It is reported that Bosch has invented a “carbon neutral” synthetic hydrocarbon based fuel. It is likely to be some time before the chemistry involved proves to be scalable or for production of sufficient quantities to be commercially viable, but should it prove to be so it could take the transport emissions debate in an additional new direction.

BRP is introducing a first Rotax electric powerpack for the Karting market – a high performance 2.5kwh lithium-ion battery with a top performance of 20 kW and 46 Nm for a top speed of 130 km/h and o-100 km/h of 3.5 seconds.

The sectors of the Brammo electric vehicle business that were not bought by Polaris five years ago, which includes the ‘Empulse RR’ e-bike of IOM and Pikes Peak derring do fame, has been bought by Diesel engine manufacturer Cummins. Cummins CEO and Chairman Tom Lineberger is a non-executive Director on the board of Harley-Davidson.

Aprilia

Capirossi joined Aprilia race fans for a Mugello track day

Aprilia race fans in Italy got a surprise in May – turning up for one of Aprilia’s 2018 ‘Racers Days’ track days, they found no less than three-times World Champion Loris Capirossi sharing the pits with them.


 
Capirossi was there to take the RSV4 “out for a spin” on the spectacular Tuscany track and joined in with the enthusiasts in appreciation of all things Aprilia for the day.
Capirossi definitely appears to appreciate the RSV4, commenting “testing the RSV4 RF at Mugello was a fantastic experience. It's a really nice bike to ride, the feel is immediate, and the engine performs really well. You can feel the excellent connection with the throttle grip, and it’s extremely fast for a standard motorcycle - riding it brings a smile to your face, even for someone as experienced as me”.
‘Racers Days’ are Aprilia events that offer enthusiasts a total experience in the racing world of Aprilia. The calendar includes nine opportunities, up to September, to try out the exclusive Aprilia RSV4 RF and Tuono V4 1100 Factory on world-class circuits such as Misano, Mugello and Imola. For younger riders, the Tuono 125 is available, and for those who want to improve their performance on the track, in safe conditions, lessons are available at the Aprilia “Riding Academy”.

Polisport

CR125/250 restyling kit

Polisport, the Portuguese manufacturer of ‘Performance Plastics’, has released a new CR restyling kit that includes airbox covers, front and rear fenders, number plate, side panels and radiator scoops to completely update the look of Honda CR models from 2002 onward.
The plastics are injection-moulded with a perfect OEM fit, Polisport kit components are “flexible and glossy, and submitted to rigorous control tests, just like any OEM part produced for KTM or Husqvarna”. 

The design of this kit is based on the new CR450F, and also makes it possible to update the old CR 2-strokes. The new restyling kit enables a “complete update to the look of any CR from 2002 onward, to look like the new models”.

Polisport plastics are an “inexpensive alternative to OEM replacement parts with a stock colour match that is more durable than the factory finishes”. All Polisport plastics are produced with exclusive DGP (Durable Gloss Polypropylene) technology, which makes them more durable, with a perfect combination of resistance and flexibility; replica plastics have a glossy finish and colours that perfectly match the stock parts.

POLISPORT
www.polisport.com

Surflex

Surflex for BMW K1200

Italian performance clutch component specialist Surflex says its mission is to “let all on-highway riders feel the same emotions and have the same performance opportunities that race track pilots have”.

This was the company’s aim when designing this upgrade kit for the BMW K1200 Sport Tourer series.
The upgrade kit has a couple of discs more than the original stack, the engine torque being split on a major surface, it results in a perfectly effective clutch, more responsive, durable and softer at the hand control.
The same kit has also been made in a lighter version where the plain plates are made in high-strength, high-quality Ergal alloy so that the inertial force is reduced.
The two kits are a straight replacement for the OE clutch and sold complete with all lined and plain discs.

SURFLEX S.R.L.
www.surflex.it

Forbikes

3 mm of clear precision

Everybody, quite rightly, points to the safety issues of a good motorcycle helmet shell and its ability to absorb and deflect impact energy and reduce the brain damage that can be caused in an accident.

However, good riding vision and visor safety is also extremely important, and in Europe Italian distributor Forbikes is increasingly becoming the ‘go-to’ for access to some of the best quality visors available.
Their start-to-finish FK Visor manufacturing process starts with the technical designs and takes the visor right through the whole process, from precision moulding right through to the craftsman made finished product, to ensure a perfect fit to the helmet every time.
Known for the artisan craftsmanship of their 3 mm visors with quality optics and advanced design capabilities, Forbikes’ FK visor programme is the result of its acquisition of the noted AB S.r.l thermoforming and plastic processing helmet visor business in Reggio Emilia in Italy in 2012.

The multi-approval British made Davida ‘Koura’ full-face is one of the latest helmet designs to benefit from FK’s 3 mm visor technology

Last year, Forbikes completed the renovation and refurbishment of the ‘historic’ FK Visors facility, and invites visitors to come and see for themselves the attention to detail and quality processes that go into every one of their visors.

FORBIKES
www.forbikes.it
www.fkvisors.com

Rainers Sports

‘Storil’ jacket and ‘Tiger’ boots

Founded in 1988 and celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Spanish apparel specialist Rainers Sports continues to develop its programme, offering dealers the opportunity to offer their customers a growing range of high performance, high specification riding gear options.

Seen here is the new ‘Storil’ three-layer jacket with a new design, front and rear reflective panels, CE protectors at the back and the shoulders and external TPU protectors at the shoulders.

Also seen here, Rainers’ versatile, multi-purpose ‘Tiger’ elastic boots are made from leather with a guaranteed waterproof membrane, have protectors at the ankles and shins, and are closed by zipper and Velcro. A panel adjusts the twin reflective fluo piece at the rear.

RAINERS SPORTS
www.rainers-sports.com

Scottoiler

Scottoiler xSystem electronic chain oiler

Motorcycle chain lubrication specialist Scottoiler is launching a new electronic chain oiling system – the xSystem. The company says the xSystem is their “easiest to install and most user-friendly system to date”.

Featuring what Scottoiler describes as a “revolutionary new design that offers user-friendly features such as one-touch adjustment” it is a “compact package that provides optimal chain lubrication for all riding conditions”.
Sales & Marketing Director Nick Muddle says: “We are very excited to be bringing another new product to the market. The xSystem is a new electronic chain oiler that perfectly fills the gap between our flagship mechanically operated vSystem and our premium eSystem.
“The xSystem provides customers with another option for how to deal with chain maintenance that is without doubt our best fit-and-forget solution yet. Initial orders through our distribution network have been very encouraging, and it is an exciting time for everyone at Scottoiler”.

The xSystem uses a micro-processor and triple axis accelerometer to ensure the chain is lubricated automatically with minimal rider input. The new dispenser design uses “high quality super-adhesive 3M tape that sticks to all surfaces and provides an easy and effective solution for mounting the dispenser.
“The new dispenser parts reduce the risk of incorrect installation and the need to use any unsightly cable ties around the swingarm. Compatible with most types of swingarms, left or right transmission systems and even single-sided swingarms, the new dispenser makes the xSystem installation easy, reliable and discreet”.
Offering five different flow rate settings that approximate to 20, 50, 80, 120 and 150 seconds between each pump activation, Scottoiler says it can be adjusted at the push of a button to provide optimal lubrication whatever the riding conditions, and that it also has the ability to be switched off when not in use for extended periods, or when the bikes goes in for a service - the settings are stored in the xSystem’s memory.
The company claims that regular oiling and use of their automatic systems and “low-tack” oil help keep the transmission clean and extend chain and sprocket life.

SCOTTOILER LTD
www.scottoiler.com

KYMCO

KYMCO “Ionex” open energy platform

At the Tokyo Motorcycle Show in March, KYMCO unveiled what it describes as a “game-changing electric scooter solution that eliminates all barriers to going green”.
The Ionex scooter charging architecture is the world’s first multi-function open energy platform - a rechargeable Li-ion battery system that KYMCO says has the potential to eliminate waiting times, massively improve battery portability and deliver a range of up to 200 km.

The system uses shared outlets and public charge locker infrastructure to charge removable battery packs that are housed in an ergonomically efficient smart energy bay that is said to make doing so a lot easier than has been the case so far.
Weighing less than 5 kg and with a carry-friendly design, the under-floor battery placement is said to help the electric scooter achieve the lowest possible center of gravity possible while creating “the largest under-seat storage ever”.
Each KYMCO Ionex scooter has an internal core battery, so it can still be ridden with the portable batteries removed. The core battery is kept constantly fully charged by the removable batteries. Ionex automatically selects the optimal battery to charge the core battery and decides on the right battery to supply power. It makes all batteries work seamlessly work together.
KYMCO claims that the Ionex energy architecture eliminates the two primary obstacles riders face in making the decision to “go green” – range anxiety and the (currently) limited number of charging stations.
The batteries can be home-charged, and during the day an extensive Ionex Charge Point Network will mean riders can hand over their battery to have it charged; most charge points can fully charge a battery in less than an hour. Ionex also offers extra batteries for rental, these can be stored under the seat.
Additionally, the Ionex Power Outlet Network are locations where riders can use the public outlets to charge their battery; KYMCO says it has designed the charger to be easily portable and to fit neatly in the scooter.
“To scale everything to the next level, the Charge Point Network, Extra Battery Rental and Power Outlet Network all embrace the spirit of the sharing economy. Everyone is invited to take part in this open energy network. Aside from raising their public image, participating businesses can draw potential customers to their establishment”.
www.kymco.com

Yamaha

Yamaha: Q1 net sales revenue +3.7%; unit sales down in Europe

Reporting that earnings were “up solidly in the first quarter” and that profits rose “in all major product categories”, net sales for Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.'s consolidated accounting period for the first quarter of the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018 [the quarter ending March 31st 2018] were 405.6 billion yen, (an increase of 19.5 billion yen or +5.1% compared with the same period the previous fiscal year), and operating income was 41.2 billion yen (an increase of 3.9 billion yen or 10.5%).

Profitability improvements continued in the emerging markets motorcycle, marine and industrial machinery and robots businesses, absorbing the effect of the appreciating yen, and leading to increased sales and income.
In motorcycle terms, net sales were 241.2 billion yen (an increase of 8.7 billion yen or +3.7% compared with the same period the previous fiscal year), and operating income was 14.5 billion yen (an increase of 0.6 billion yen or +4.3%).
Unit sales in developed markets decreased due to factors such as a decline in total demand and irregular weather in Europe. Unit sales in emerging markets such as Indonesia, the Philippines and Brazil increased, but decreased in the Vietnamese 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. In terms of operating income, high profitability was maintained in the ASEAN region, helping to increase income, but, due to decreased income in developed markets etc., operating income overall was on par with the same period the previous fiscal year.
No changes have been made to the anticipated consolidated business results for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018, with sales forecast to reach 1,700.0 billion yen in net sales.

Husqvarna

Husqvarna continues AFT Singles support

Organisers AMA (The American Motorcyclist Association) managed to inject a new lease of life into the American Flat Track Racing series in the United States - America’s oldest and many would say most authentic and iconic motorcycle race series.

Photo Credit: American Flat Track/Zach Prescott

Much of the excitement centered around the AFT Twins presented by Vance and Hines, in which traditional rivals Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle went head-to-head on their respective new 750cc race bikes.
For 2018 the Singles series, that runs alongside the Twins class, sees Husqvarna continue as the Official Motorcycle of AFT Singles with its race-proven FC 450 – and is again putting up an $88,700 contingency winnings purse for this year’s Singles competitors.
“We are delighted to continue to partner with Husqvarna Motorcycles for the 2018 season,” said Michael Lock, CEO of American Flat Track. “The AFT Singles class is the perfect combination of fast-and-furious pro flat track racing and young, talented athletes on production-based bikes. Husqvarna’s commitment to the class in general, and specifically in bringing AFT Singles its first-ever factory-backed rider in Shayna Texter, is a real boost for the sport.”
“Husqvarna Motorcycles is proud to be the ‘Official Motorcycle of the AFT Singles Class’ for the second year running,” said Husqvarna Marketing Manager Jenna Parker. “We are excited by the developments in the American Flat Track championship series and look forward to seeing the sport continue to cultivate enthusiasm for motorcycling.”
Husqvarna Motorcycles will put $4,650 up for grabs for Husqvarna FC 450-mounted riders in all 18 rounds of the 2018 AFT Singles season. Additionally, a $5,000 bonus pool is available to riders who finish in the championship top three aboard Husqvarna equipment.
www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

Polish new motorcycle registrations

Poland: new motorcycle registrations -28.76 percent Q1

After being down by -41.84 at 15,032 units for the full year 2017, the latest data released by the motorcycle industry trade association in Poland (PZPM) put new motorcycle registrations in the Polish market at -33.32 percent for the first quarter of 2018 (1,225 units) and -28.76 percent for the YTD (2,093 units).
Until last year’s reverse, new motorcycle registrations had grown consistently in Poland since 2013 and stood at record levels at the end of 2016 (25,844 units).
New moped registrations were down by -55.50 percent (Euro 4 effect) with total new PTW registrations -43.66 percent YTD (3,739 units); in 2017 they were -10.18 percent for the full year (44,669 units).
However, new model registrations are only ever part of the story where the Polish market is concerned. Poland is an important market for pre-owned vehicles (from elsewhere in Europe) that are receiving their first domestic Polish registration; these machines provide valuable service, maintenance and PG&A income for Poland’s franchised and independent motorcycle shops and the vendors they buy from.
Combined total new and used motorcycle registrations are running at -17.65 YTD (12,573 units); new and used mopeds combined are -44.11 percent YTD on low volumes; total new and used PTW registrations are -24.39 percent YTD at 15,494 units, having been -6.75 percent for 2017 at 109,393 units.

News Briefs

Race Winning Brands (RWB), the Mentor, Ohio based parent company of Dutch piston and performance specialist ProX Racing Parts, has bought Rekluse, the Boise, Idaho based clutch manufacturer. A “portfolio company” of Kinderhook Industries Llc (of New York, who bought the then ProX parent company PMI from Dover Corp in early 2007), RWB, which describes itself as a “leading manufacturer of high-performance and racing application focused components”, also owns Wiseco and JE Pistons among others.

Royal Enfield parent company Eicher Motors and Polaris Industries (Indian Motorcycle) have closed down the ‘Multix’ personal utility vehicle manufacturing joint venture they established in 2012. Despite initial success with the project, Eicher Polaris Pvt Ltd is said to have lost money throughout its operation, with a $14.13 m loss for the year ended March 2017, taking Eicher’s total investment in the project to north of $40m.

American distribution to manufacturing giant MAG has successfully completed its reorganisation process and emerged from its bankruptcy protection filing of November 2017. MAG is the parent company of well-known U.S. businesses such as distributor Tucker Rocky and parts and accessory brands and manufacturers such as Vance & Hines, Kuryakyn, Roland Sands, Performance Machine and UK based Renthal.

Monroe shock absorber and former Marzocchi Suspension owner Tenneco has bought Federal Mogul from controversial billionaire activist investor Carl Icahan for some $5.4bn. Federal Mogul owns a number of businesses and brands that make powersports industry product of various kinds, most notably Italy based Ferodo brakes and Champion spark plugs and filters.

Ducati has opened a new flagship store in New York City.  The new dealership, with a renovated showroom of more than 700 sq m, is strategically located at 155 6th Avenue in SoHo in New York and opened its doors on April 19. Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali said: “This new Monobrand Ducati Store represents a further step forward in the process of continuous improvement of the quality of our network internationally.”

UFO Plast

Original 2018 and vintage plastics kits

Italian off-road specialist UFO Plast has become well known for their riding gear and accessories, but their core business has always been replica and replacement plastic components for MX machines.

Fluo kit for Honda CRF 2018

“The huge availability of plastics for motorcycles is one of the workhorses of our production,” says Vito Consoloni, UFO Plast CEO.
“We have OE replacement and upgrade plastics and components available for more models than any other manufacturer in the world, because we have been producing spare parts for all the most important off-road brands and models in the world since 1987”.
The original UFO plastic line for Japanese off-road motorcycles, KTM and Husqvarna has been expanded with versions dedicated to Motocross and Enduro 2018 models. 

Honda vintage kit

“Characterised by double injection technology and high-quality materials, together with state-of-the-art production based entirely in Italy, kits include front and rear fenders, front number plates, side panels, fork slider protectors, air box filter panels and radiator covers.
The kits are available in different colours, from OEM colours through to the fluo, and in some versions with designs and stylised stickers. The company also produces the widest range of original plastics dedicated to Enduro motorcycles and vintage cross motorcycles starting from 1987.

UFO PLAST S.R.L.
www.ufoplast.it

Puig

R-Racer screen for ZX-10R and R-Fighter footpegs

Now available from Spanish specialist Puig is the R-Racer 3 mm high-impact acrylic racing screen for the Kawasaki ZX-10R. Developed in close collaboration with the Kawasaki WSBK team, “the design is the result of years of partnership with the dominant team of the world championship for the past few years, providing experience and riders’ feedback from high-end competition.”

The main feature is its pronounced higher than original design, providing a more aggressive and sporty look. Its shape clears air pressure by 1,42 kg (tested at 150 km/h), which delivers a 38% improvement in the rider’s protection with a sporty riding position - this is said to represent “significant results, especially on the helmet protection and upper body section, without losing the aerodynamic coefficient (Cx), so the performance of the bike remains unchanged; available in multiple colourways.
Also seen here, Puig’s new R-Fighter series footpegs have been “developed to achieve maximum safety and confidence on either sports or touring bikes”.

Described as being designed for a “sporty riding style with more grip to provide more confidence in risky riding situations”, the design is said to have been inspired by the look of gear teeth. Machined from lightweight billet aluminium, they are said to provide a better surface and high-quality finish. “The metallic finish of these footpegs is intended for a more aggressive riding style, while the R-Fighter S model, with a rubber insert, is intended to soften the vibrations of the bike for daily use”.

MOTOPLASTIC
www.puig.tv

Fehling

MT-07 accessories

Well known German accessory manufacturer Fehling offers dealers access to one of the largest handlebar, luggage carrier system and engine protection ranges in the industry.
Seen here is a selection from Fehling’s extensive range of options for Yamaha’s popular MT-07 – upper and lower engine protection guards, side bag holder and rear luggage rack – all in steel, in black.

Also shown here are model-specific accessories for Yamaha’s XV 950 Racer – a side bag holder, rear luggage rack and 38 mm one-piece extra large engine protection guard – also all in black.

Fehling design and make all their own products in-house at their factory near Dortmund in Germany. Founded in 1945 as a metal forming and processing engineering business, the company specialises in motorcycle parts for most popular current (and older) makes and model, currently employs around 25 people and is still in the ownership of the founder's family.

ERNST FEHLING GMBH & CO
www.fehling.de

Tucker

Introducing - “The New Tucker”


Tucker Rocky has announced that it is to retire the historic reference to Rocky Cycle in its name and re-brand simply as ‘Tucker’.
Founded by Texan Ed Tucker as a wholesale motorcycle oil business in 1967, then bought and subsequently expanded by Bob Nickell in 1972, the TR name came about through the acquisition of Rocky Cycle in 1986 before the combined business was sold to Indianapolis based Lacy Diversified Industries three years later.
In introducing “the new Tucker” as a “rebranding that honors the company’s rich heritage” and “showcases its status as a world-class leader in powersports distribution,” Tucker President Eric Cagle said, “the Tucker of today offers unrivaled services to our dealers and brand partners. From distribution, sales and customer service; to marketing, advertising and brand building, we are dedicated to the support and growth of powersports.”
As part of the rebranding, Tucker V-twin becomes a new overall program concept for “the new dark side of Tucker” that specializes in V-twin for the Harley aftermarket and broader custom parts and accessory dealer and bike builder community.
Biker’s Choice remains alongside Twin Power, BikeMaster and other Tucker and well-known group industry brands as part of a comprehensive portfolio of business opportunities for Harley and V-twin dealers. The company says that “more Tucker V-twin information will be announced soon.”

A new Tucker logo is described as representing core values of contemporary logistics excellence in a Powersports industry context. “The forward-facing square and large notched “T” combine to create a symbol of speed and innovation. Bold red was chosen to represent Tucker’s passion to deliver the best brands in powersports. Known in the industry for being dedicated to supporting its customers, the all-lowercase “tucker” is appropriately friendly,” explained Taz Sobotka, Senior Manager of Marketing.
“The need for speed is innate in powersports enthusiasts and imperative as a distributor. The Tucker ‘Power T’ logo conveys the visual allusion of speed and movement that represents the feeling of freedom we all love about powersports.”
Tucker says that is sees the individual pieces of the new logo coming together as one “to symbolize the unified qualities that make the company a world-class distributor. The new name symbolizes the vision and values of Ed Tucker’s humble beginnings when he started the company in 1967. Over 50 years later Tucker continues to deliver the most powerful brands in powersports.”
Tucker says the new look will debut June 16th on location at the American Flat Track OKC Mile with Cory Texter and his CTR crew, and the High Point AMA Pro Motocross National in Mt. Morris, PA with EBR Performance/Altus Motorsports Yamaha and rider Ramy Alves.
www.tucker.com

KTM

KTM scores points in battle to be collision avoidance ‘TechMeisters’ 

KTM says it has “demonstrated its commitment to improving safety for motorcyclists and reducing accidents” as the first motorcycle manufacturer to demonstrate Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection systems. 

Still in the development process, both of these features use sensor-based technology to help detect and prevent a collision from the front or rear. The prototype systems were unveiled on a modified KTM 1290 Super Adventure S to a select group of media before being live demonstrated at the ÖAMTC driving technique centre in Marchtrenk, Austria, on May 2.  

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is not designed as an emergency brake system but works when the machine is in cruise control above a designated speed. The system can detect a vehicle in front, ranging from the size of a motorcycle and above, and then locks on to maintain a distance of two seconds by automatic throttle control and – if needed – gentle application of the front brake.
The finalised packaging of the system is still in development along with adding the ability for the rider to customise the operational distance and speed. When fully developed, it is expected that ACC will be able to respond faster than any rider in such a given situation.
The ‘blind spot’ on a bike is usually checked by a long, rearward look, which can be dangerous in heavy traffic situations. Blind Spot Detection (BSD) adds another set of eyes in such demanding riding conditions or during a particularly long ride. BSD uses a short distance radar to ACC to alert the rider to the potential of an undetected rear collision – such as when changing lanes – by way of a visual warning on the TFT display, as well as with illuminating superbright LEDs integrated within the rearview mirror glass, also boosted by an audible signal.
These game-changing features will be part of new electronics packages offered on certain KTM models, beginning from Model Year 2021. This technology will also create provision for other sensor-based systems further in the future, already in development.
After personally demonstrating the effectiveness of these systems to the journalists by riding the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S without his right arm and leg on the machine’s controls, Gerald Matschl, Vice President for KTM Research & Development, said: “As a company, KTM is committed to improving rider safety and also to reduce accidents. We have a lot more development and many thousands of kilometres to test these systems in the real world before we can implement them on series production bikes, but they are coming in the near future, and we are sure they will make a difference.”
KTM PR Manager (Street), Luke Brackenbury said: “When it comes to KTM applying electronic rider aids to its sportmotorcycles, it has always been the same approach to offer features that help riders control their bikes without losing the joy of riding. Improving safety for motorcyclists is part of our responsibility as a manufacturer, and KTM has demonstrated this in the past as the first company to offer two-channel ABS as standard on a 125 cc machine with the KTM 125 Duke in 2014 in the same year as introducing the pioneering cornering-ABS function. With ACC and BSD, we hope to make motorcycling safer still.”
As a motorcycle technology leader, KTM currently offers a wide range of leading electronic rider aids across most of its 2018 Street range. The goal of such systems is to either help improve rider safety or add to the enjoyment of riding.
Lean angle-sensitive systems can be found on the new KTM 790 Duke and all of the 1290-powered machines, which includes Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) with the revolutionary cornering ABS function, along with Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) and multi-stage traction control. On some models, semi-active suspension is offered along with Hill Hold Control (HHC), Automatic Turn Indicator Reset (ATIR), Quickshifter+ and cornering LED headlights.

Honda

Honda European unit sales +7.8 percent for 2017/18

Honda has announced that Group motorcycle unit sales for its financial year ended March 31, 2018 (its fourth quarter and full year 2017/2018) were 17.661 m units worldwide for an operating margin of 9.9 percent, and that it expects to sell 19.554 m units this year at a 13.1 percent operating margin, with unit sales exceeding 20 m units in 2019. 

Honda says the growth is due mainly to sales [and capacity] growth in India, Vietnam and Thailand. Honda Group unit sales include those of Honda and its subsidiaries and affiliates; on a consolidated basis, motorcycle unit sales were 11.237 m units for 2017/18 and are expected to be 12.954 m this year.
Indian sales set a new record at 5.775 m units, which was +22.2 percent over 2016/17. Total worldwide fourth quarter Group unit sales were 4.747 m, which was +11.7 percent. On a consolidated basis, fourth quarter European unit sales were 61,000 units; 234,000 for the financial year (+7.8 percent). In North America fourth quarter consolidated sales were 81,000 units and 313,000 units for the full year (+6.5 percent).

LighTech

Austrian TÜV for
LighTech levers 

Italian parts, accessory and design kit specialist LighTech announced restyled and upgraded brake and clutch levers for 2018. They are now certified to TÜV Austria (KBA 91595), and this KBA code will be engraved and visible on each lever.

This certification means that all LighTech levers passed the demanding quality and mechanical tests from TÜV Austria - the official document is available for all distributors, dealers, resellers and consumers to download via a link from the LighTech website.

A new logo design featuring the Italian flag is being used on LighTech’s levers to emphasise that theirs are 100 percent Made in Italy products, and new orange colour rubber inserts are available for their “Alien” levers.

www.lightech.it

MAGURA

MAGURA in new aftermarket sales operation launch

In addition to its international distributor and subsidiary network, German manufacturer MAGURA has announced a new pathway for dealers to buy MAGURA aftermarket motorcycle products – through MAGURA Bike Parts GmbH & Co. KG.
“As a result, motorcycle retailers will benefit from MAGURA‘s long-standing aftermarket experience in the bike and service sector. In this way, motorcycle shops will in future have access to a Europe-wide distribution network with B2B Shop and a proven service infrastructure.

“The aim of MAGURA Bike Parts is to use its proven sales expertise to give retailers straightforward access to motorcycle products throughout the whole of Europe. Broad-based sales, marketing, logistics and service teams guarantee a professional approach and on-schedule product distribution. Retailers can order products quickly and easily online in any of the six languages offered by the B2B Shop or via the hotline. Technical consulting in ten languages and sites in the Netherlands, France, Italy and Great Britain ensure quick response times”.

MAGURA go on to say that “for more than 90 years, MAGURA Powersports products have been setting standards as OEM solutions used by renowned motorcycle makes such as BMW and KTM. Thanks to products such as the first hydraulic clutch for KTM Motocross motorcycles or the first hydraulic fitting manufactured using specially developed composites technology for BMW, MAGURA has been a part of the success of these brands.
“Brakes, handlebars and hydraulic clutches improve motorsport performances and make everyday motorcycle riding more comfortable. The first tests with special and custom aftermarket products have been conducted successfully. With the official launch of aftermarket sales throughout Europe, MAGURA is taking the next important step in the development of the motorcycle sector”.

Featuring patented Hard Core Technology (HCT), popular MAGURA products include its HCT compact hydraulic master with enhanced response for improved performance and safety, and MAGURA HYMEC, the easy-to-mount hydraulic alternative to conventional mechanical clutch operation that is said to require up to 25 percent less strength needed for clutch action and a clearly defined, constant bite point.
www.magura.com

Harley-Davidson

H-D invests in Alta Motors

Harley-Davidson has announced that it has made an equity investment in San Francisco Bay area MX E-bike maker Alta Motors, “a leader and innovator in lightweight electric vehicles”.

Alta’s 2018 Redshift MXR

Marc Fenigstein, Alta Motors Chief
Product Officer and co-founder

The two companies will collaborate on electric motorcycle technology and new product development. “Earlier this year, as part of our 10-year strategy, we reiterated our commitment to build the next generation of Harley-Davidson riders, in part by aggressively investing in electric vehicle (EV) technology,” said Harley-Davidson President and CEO Matt Levatich. “Alta has demonstrated innovation and expertise in EV, and their objectives align closely with ours. We each have strengths and capabilities that will be mutually beneficial as we work together to develop cutting-edge electric motorcycles.”
Harley-Davidson had already announced the planned launch of its first electric motorcycle, informed by their 2014 Project LiveWire. That, or an evolved platform informed at least in part by that experience is now, theoretically, on track for release in 2019.
“Since its inception, Alta Motors has designed and commercialised some of the world's most advanced electric motorcycles, enabling everyone from pro riders to new riders to experience the future of fast electric motorcycles. Riders are just beginning to understand the combined benefits of EV today, and our technology continues to progress,” said Alta Motors Chief Product Officer and co-founder, Marc Fenigstein.

Ferodo Racing

Ferodo new Ceramic Grip race compound

Ferodo Racing, official technical partner of the Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team, has launched a new range of CPRO brake pads for circuit racing that incorporate their new CPRO friction material - a compound originally developed by Ferodo for GT car racing that uses the latest formulation techniques and technology.

Sandro Cortese, Kallio Racing team, competing in the World Supersport Championship 
Photo credit: Robert Murdoch

Seen here is Sandro Cortese of the Kallio Racing team competing in the World Supersport Championship, and Ferodo says the new pads “are currently being used in championships at world level, with riders winning several podium finishes”. 

The company says that its Ceramic Grip racing range provides the performance and modulation required by the world’s best riders with excellent bite and low disc wear properties on stainless steel and cast iron discs.
According to Ferodo’s extensive lab and track testing results, the compound delivers top rated friction level performance when hot, top rated bite, controllability and disc life with excellent bite and very good wet braking response and reliability.

FEDERAL MOGUL ITALY S.R.L.
RACING & MOTORCYCLE DIVISION
www.ferodoracing.com

HP Corse

HP Corse 4TRACK, Hydroform and EvoXtreme

Italian exhaust specialist HP Corse unveiled a new exhaust aimed at the Maxi Enduro/Scooter Sport Touring/Adventure markets – their new 4TRACK. 

4TRACK, seen here in titanium

Said to have been subjected to extensive bench and street testing for over a year, HP Corse says it is able to guarantee the 4TRACK’s reliability and performance gains compared to the OEM exhausts it replaces, especially in the all-important low and medium rev range where “real world riding needs the improvements most”.
The 4TRACK is light, has an octagonal shaped, hydroformed, weld-free end silencer body with laser engraved logo in titanium, satin steel and black steel. The 4TRACK is Euro 4 approved and has a maximum length of 380 mm.

EVOXTREME for Honda’s X-ADV

For Honda’s X-ADV HP Corse has the Euro 4 compliant EvoXtreme exhaust available in silver and black satin steel with a carbon fibre back. The standard OEM replacement version is 360 mm long, but also available in a 310 mm racing version in light or black satin, with fitting for the original manifolds and optional 40 mm db Killer.

HYDROFORM for the Kawasaki Z900

For the 2017 Kawasaki Z900 HP Corse has its Hydroform and EvoXtreme. The Hydroform exhaust has a “compact line and proportionate volume”, silencer body in stainless steel moulded by hydroforming with “extraordinary shape outlet with different internal diameters and reduced thickness, but mechanically very rigid, weighing just over 1 kg”.
The inner perforated barrel is conical and tapered so as to maintain the same shape of the silencer and “optimise the outflow of the exhaust gases”. It is equipped with removable db Killer and available in light satin and black waxed versions.
The EvoXtreme is “designed to challenge the extreme, with exceptional performance, enhancing the power and character”. The silencer body is available in steel (black or silver) with a carbon fibre end cap with a cut profile where it meets the metallic body of the exhaust. “One of the aesthetic features that makes the EvoXtreme exhaust exciting is its irregular shape that reduces its profile towards the fitting without resorting to welds.
Equipped with a removable db Killer and marked with a laser-engraved logo, the EvoXtreme exhaust (260 and 310 mm) for the Kawasaki Z900 is available in either light satin steel or black satin steel.

HP CORSE S.R.L.
www.hpcorse.com

UK motorcycle registrations

UK motorcycle registrations +2.09 percent January - April 2018

The latest data released by the MCIA in the UK (Motorcycle Industry Association) shows new motorcycle registrations in March down by -10.45 percent (8,724 units) despite having been up by +6.67 percent in March at 14,737 units; they are tracking at +2.09 percent for the YTD at 32,079 units.

The UK market was reported at -18.52 percent at 96,943 units for 2017. However, because of the Euro 3/Euro 4 carry-over effects, the UK trade association is on record as thinking that, in reality, the market was essentially flat in 2017 at between -2.5 and + 2.5 percent. 
Total PTW registrations were -11.55 percent in April (9,095 units) and are +0.46 percent for the YTD (33,551 units). Moped registrations are -25.5 percent YTD (1,472 units).
‘Naked’ style bikes remain the most popular in the UK at 9,851 units for the year to date; Adventure Sports models are the second most popular with 6,039 units sold YTD; 5,971 Scooters have been sold far in 2018; 2,847 custom style machines and 2,790 Supersports models.
Honda was the top selling brand in the UK in April (1,562 units sold), followed by Yamaha, Triumph, BMW, Kawasaki, KTM, H-D, Suzuki and Ducati.
The top-selling Adventure Sport model in April was the BMW R 1200 GS Adventure; leading Sport/Tourer was the Kawasaki Z1000 SX, and the top selling Tourer was the BMW R 1200 RT.
The MCIA reports that the total number of road registered motorcycles in use has continued to grow, with the latest available figures (2016) putting the market at 1.27m units with 4.6 billion km/2.8 billion miles estimated to have been ridden in the UK in 2016. The number of motorcycle tests being passed has continued to grow with 2016/17 put at 40,600, up from 37,500 in 2014/16, 34,5000 in 2014/15 and just 30,500 in 2013/14.

2018 FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE)

Six Days Enduro dates changed

The 2018 FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE), originally scheduled for Oct. 22-27 in Viña del Mar, Chile, has been rescheduled to Nov. 12-17 at the same location.
The International Six Days Enduro is the world's largest annual off-road motorcycle competition. Since 1913, countries have sent their best off-road racers to exotic locations around the world to be tested on everything from sandy beaches to rocky crevices, to deep woods and motocross tracks for the event's top prize: the ISDE World Trophy. 

Each year, countries from all over the world send teams to compete at the ISDE. The World Trophy Team features four riders that compete for the world title, along with the Junior Trophy Team, which features three riders, and the Women's Trophy Team that features three riders.
In addition, each country can send a number of three-rider club teams. Teams compete for team honors, while individual riders race for a gold, silver or bronze medals, which are based on a rider's finishing time relative to the leader.
Widely regarded as the “Olympics of Motorcycling”, the ISDE is the most prestigious off-road motorcycle event in the world. First held in Carlisle, England, in 1913, the ISDE is one of the longest-running events on the calendar of the FIM calendar.

Originally known as the International Six Day Trial, the event was held primarily on roads in the beginning – although the “roads” of the era were often as difficult as today’s trails – and were designed to test both machine reliability and rider skill. Today, the ISDE, a name it adopted in 1980, is primarily an off-road event that traverses some of the world’s most extreme terrain.
Europe was the exclusive domain of the event until 1973, when it first made a trip to the United States. The event has since been held as far afield as Chile, New Zealand, Brazil and Australia.
The rules of the ISDE have evolved over the years, but it has always run under an enduro-type format, where riders have to follow a set route at a set pace over six days. In addition, there are strict controls on when a rider may work on his or her machine and the availability of tools and spare parts. The mileage of the event can vary, but is well over 1,000 total miles.
In August 2017 France won both the FIM World Trophy team championship and the Junior Trophy on home ground on the occasion of the World Trophy’s 92nd year at Brive, France. The French team of Jeremy Tarroux (Sherco), Loic Larrieu (Yamaha), Christophe Nambotin (KTM) and Christophe Charlier (Husqvarna) won the World Trophy by a six-minute and fourteen-second margin of victory ahead of Australia, Finland, Portugal, Great Britain, Sweden, The Netherlands, Brazil, Norway and Switzerland.
Australia won the women’s event for the fifth consecutive year.
www.fim-isde.com

Matris

Matris brings suspension tuning and adjustability to the TMAX

Italian suspension specialist Matris has released a new series of model-specific applications for Yamaha’s top-selling and class-defining TMAX ‘Maxi’ Scooters from the 500 cc version first seen in 2008 right up to the 2018 models.

M46KF

Suspension has always been one of the weaknesses of the Yamaha design, as it is on all of the larger displacement and dual purpose or longer distance scooter designs on the market, but Matris says it has stock replacement suspension components that are tuned specifically to deliver the improvements in suspension performance that owners need.
For the model year 2008-2011 500 cc and 2012-2014 530 cc TMAX M46KD and M46KF, multi-adjustable rear monoshocks are additionally equipped with flex-knob hydraulic spring preload.
On the front, the innovative F15K hydraulic cartridge, multi-adjustable in compression rebound spring preload, will transform the original non-adjustable fork into the kind of fully adjustable solution that riders need – alternatively the “entry level” FKE and FSE fork sets offer spring preload adjustment. 

M46KD

For the 2015-2016 and 2017-2018 530 cc TMAX variants, Matris’ model-specific tuned M46KD and M46KF multi-adjustable rear monoshocks also have the flex-knob hydraulic spring preload adjustment, and complete multi-adjustable “quad valve” hydraulic cartridge kits deliver the same levels of adjustability options - the newest F20K series and the “entry level” spring and hydraulic kit (FKS and FRK series).
Matris says its dedicated settings and spring kits can be installed without modifications to the original fork.

MATRIS S.R.L.
www.matrisdampers.com