SBS

SBS goes 100% NRS Safe

Danish specialist SBS Friction has announced that it has “secured a 100% safe brake pad programme” by embracing mechanical bonding for their ceramic and sintered brake pads.
Last year SBS succeeded in launching a sinter material for street brake pads using NUCAP Retention System (NRS) technology for their SP programme. Now a new range of world leading road racing brake pads with NRS technology has been tested for a year and will be launched with a new Dynamic Racing Concept at EICMA. SBS says it has committed to going towards being “100% NRS Safe” throughout its brake product line. 
The NRS technology is said to be the most advanced mechanical pad to backing plate attachment technology in the industry with a zero-failure rate in over a billion units worldwide.
“There is no room for error in motorcycle braking. By going 100% NRS Safe, SBS is using the very best in mechanical attachment of the brake pad compound, enabling riders to feel confident that they are using the safest performing brakes available,” says SBS Friction CSO Christel Munk Pedersen.

“The braking environment demands components that are capable of standing up to violent vibrations, an incredible heating and cooling cycle, plus chemical, weather and road debris issues – brake pads are expected and needed to perform flawlessly in a severe and hostile environment. It is well known that traditional adhesives do not necessarily handle these extremes as well as the NRS method and can be prone to failure, leading to detachment of the pad from the backing plate.
NUCAP says it is the “global leader in brake system component innovation and manufacturing”. With locations in Canada, China, Spain and the United States, NUCAP co-develops and supplies “next generation brake safety technologies to the world’s leading brake pad and shoe manufacturers and distributors”.
“NRS Safe attachment is a mechanism that simply does not fail,” states NUCAP CEO Montu Khokhar. “NRS is a patented process that modifies the surface of disc brake backing plates, adding a consistent matrix of raised steel hooks that facilitate a mechanical bond between the disc brake plate and the friction materials”.
www.sbs.dk

Matris

Matris 2018 suspension options - 790 Duke

Italian specialist Matris has a comprehensive selection of suspension upgrades available for the KTM 790 Duke - the naked twin that is selling well in all of Europe’s primary markets.

At the front, a choice of 20 or 25 mm fork kits featuring Matris’ latest ‘Quad Valve’ technology, they both allow full compression, rebound and preload adjustment and are both complete and ready to install without any modifications to the factory front end.
For sport riders, fully adjustable Matris “speed sensitive system” steering damper options reduce vibrations and front wheel shake and provide greater safety at higher speeds.
At the rear, Matris has a choice of three M46KD OE replacement multi-adjustable shock absorber options - all three have rebound and length adjustment; the std has a standard spring compression preload adjustment; the ID has hydraulic spring preload adjustment, and on the IKD it is via a glove-  friendly top knob for fast and easy setting change.
Matris front forks for the KTM 790 Duke are sold with Motorex fork oil and feature KTM colour match springs. Matris ‘Dark Series’ black springs are available on request.

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

GIVI

Sport-T side cases

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, GIVI’s new ST604 side cases are an addition to the company’s Sport-T range. They are a thermoformed option for fast bikes, streamlined and expandable and sold as a pair.

They use the Multilock latch/unlatch system and are attached to the bike using a TST specific frame. Said to “represent the perfect synthesis between rigid cases and soft bags, with which they share many features such as functionality, sturdiness, lightness and ease of transport”, the cases are made of thermoformed EVA coated in polyester and each have a 22 litre capacity. The storage space is accessed using the zippered extension, supported by retractable straps that retain the overall shape of the bag.

Further features include an anatomic grip carrying handle, reflective lateral inserts and zipper pulls, ready to accommodate a padlock. Internally there is a strap to support the lid, mesh compartments and looped inner elastic straps. A rain cover is also included. Measuring 340 x 300 x 450 mm (HxDxL), the maximum storage load is 4 kg for each bag. UV-resistant materials are used, compliant to ISO 4892-2:3013 directive (1,500 hours exposure in Q-Sun Xenon test chamber).

GIVI S.R.L.
www.givi.it

Venhill Engineering

Venhill cables for KTM 2-strokers

British motorcycle controls specialist Venhill Engineering has developed replacement Featherlight throttle cables for KTM’s latest generation two-stroke off-road bikes. 
Available for the 2017 and on 125 cc, 150 cc, 250 cc and 300 cc models, these OEM replacement Featherlight throttle cables are developed from OEM items and designed to give improved performance and feel, as well as adding durability and a smoother action.

Each cable features Venhill’s high-quality Featherlight cabling – a marine-grade stainless steel inner wire for minimum stretch, and a PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) liner to reduce friction and give a lighter action. The liner also removes the need for lubrication - a real advantage when riding off-road.

The cables are ‘Bird-caged’ – a special process applied to the end of the inner wire, which allows solder to penetrate the weave of the cable, making the bond with the nipple much stronger. The process adds extra strength and durability, so cables can withstand being put under repeated stress and pressure – another major plus when riding off-road.
Available in black, orange, blue, green, grey, red, white and yellow for 250/300 SX/EXC (2017); 25/150/250 SX (2017/18); 150/250/300 XC-W (2017/18) and for the 2017 Husqvarna 125 TC.

VENHILL ENGINEERING
www.venhill.co.uk

UFO Plast

UFO Plast ‘Quiver’

Italian off-road and MX specialist UFO Plast is introducing new entry level helmets – ‘Quiver’, a latest neck brace-ready and ECE 22.05 homologated design from the UFO R&D team. 

Made from high-strength polycarbonate (high resistance thermoplastic resin), the removable and washable internal pads are said to offer excellent fit, and features such as the air vents and rear air extractors, adjustable visor height and double D straps make this a well featured product with an excellent price/quality ratio.

Available in five new graphics “with simple lines to create a trendy and classic, elegant helmet with cutting-edge technical and aesthetic characteristics”, UFO Plast says ‘Quiver’ is designed, specified and targeted to sit at the top of the entry-level market.

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

Polisport

Polisport new products for 2019

New from Portuguese off-road and MX plastics specialist Polisport, the Armadillo pipe guard is a dual compound, high-temperature resistant steel and elastomer design that combines improved protection levels with reduced vibrations and noise.

‘Armadillo’ pipe guard

Quick and easy to install, it is also easy to remove and clean after riding; it has a variable width through the protection areas for a better fit to the pipe – the exhaust does not have to be removed for guard installation.

Frame protectors

Also seen here as universal fit for two-stroke machines, Polisport frame protectors provide protection of the frame from rust, rocks and the rider’s boots. Abrasion and impact resistant, its texturised surface means enhanced grip. The slim, robust and durable design means long life and doesn’t interfere with the rider’s boots.

‘Fortress’ skid plate

The ‘Fortress’ skid plate is a highly durable and resistant injection-moulded design for full coverage of the engine and frame rails. A specific mounting kit has been developed for a simple and quick installation. It delivers extended side protection, is available with and without linkage protection and, unlike metal protectors, is noise-free. 

‘Hammer’ hand and master cylinder protector

Polisport’s MX style (single point mount) ‘Hammer’ hand and master cylinder protector uses a new universal mounting system for quick and easy mounting and precision fit.
The large yet slim and low profile plastic guard is said to ensure optimal protection with horizontally orientated airflow vents for improved cooling.
These are among the new products Polisport will present at INTERMOT, and they will be available by the beginning of 2019.

POLISPORT
www.polisport.com

Airoh

‘Commander’ ON/OFF road

The latest evolution of Italian specialist Airoh’s ON/OFF helmets, the ‘Commander’, features “an innovative design” with a changeable configuration that turns it from a ‘peak and visor’ off-roader to a ‘naked’ on-roader with the peak and visor removed. 

The company says that all of its “latest helmet design and technology comes together in the ‘Commander’ to redefine standards and achieve performance levels that others cannot match”.  Features include a high performance composite fibre (HPC) shell, extra wide visor with retractable sun visor, Pinlock lens, aerodynamic peak, three-zone ventilation, Bluetooth housing, two outer shell sizes and a wide range of “striking” graphics.

LOCATELLI S.P.A.
www.airoh.com

LeoVince

“The bearable lightness of LeoVince”

Developed in collaboration with its Racing Department, the new LV-10 Titanium by Italian exhaust specialist LeoVince has a muffler and collector made using very pure, very light and very strong grade 1 titanium.

Hand TIG welded in a control chamber, the ‘Titanium’ achieves a 29 percent weight reduction compared to stainless steel and delivers “high ductility, strength and corrosion resistance”.
Applying experience gained in the Moto 2 and Moto 3 championships, the company says the LV-10 Titanium “expresses the maximum in racing technology applied to a tailpipe designed for standard bikes” and is available as an approved fitment for street bike applications.
 The LV-10 Titanium exhaust has a sanded finish with a laser-etched LeoVince logo and is being unveiled for select models at EICMA.
www.leovince.com

GPR

M3 Black Titanium replica

Italian manufacturer GPR Exhaust Systems, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, has announced updates to its popular product lines with this new M3 Black Titanium Limited Edition slip-on - a Moto 3 replica developed in conjunction with the World Champion Joan Mir during the 2017 season and with Jorge Martin and Fabio Di Giannantonio this year.

Available for all main sports use and naked style street bikes, the M3 is totally hand made in Milan, Italy, in black titanium with a high temperature resistant ceramic coating. The brackets are in carbon for high strength and light weight with a 304 stainless steel link pipe.
Fully TIG welded, the compact and lightweight design is available in a homologated version with removable db killer and either as a slip-on or as part of a complete 3-2-1 or 4-2-1 full system.

G.P.R. ITALIA S.R.L.
www.gpr.it

Premier Helmets

Anniversary limited editions

To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Premier has launched an exclusive series of helmets, the Anniversary Edition, combining “hi-tech materials, artisan craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology”.

‘MX’ vintage full-face cross

‘Trophy’ full-face with a full carbon shell and interior leather

The four top models in this vintage range have been created in “high-quality, hi-tech carbon” with a visible carbon weave, looser than usual, giving “strong aesthetic personality and first-rate performance”.
Materials used include natural leather with visible stitching. The interior padding is made from Carbon Fitting, a natural fabric with active carbon fibres in the weave - breathable and thermo-regulating, it is said to guarantee perfect air-conditioning.
The inner shells are in differentiated density EPS, moulded in two sizes. Four models are available - the ‘MX’, a vintage full-face cross in full carbon, while the ‘Trophy’ is a vintage full-face with a full carbon shell, interior leather and four air vents on the front and rear.
The ‘Vintage Classic’ is a jet with a full carbon shell, and the ‘Le Petit Classic’ has a full carbon shell and leather details. Each helmet is presented in exclusive packaging and is homologated to current standard ECE 22-05; 5-year warranty.

PREMIER HELMETS
www.premier.it

Comment by Editor, Robin Bradley

IDN forecasts “+7.0 percent motorcycle growth” for 2018

This month sees IDN publishing the most recent ACEM EU new motorcycle registrations data (January to June 2018) and the latest national statistics from most of the market’s primary trade associations (January to August 2018).
Apart from registration anomalies such as the Euro 3 panic that gripped the industry at the end of 2016, generally, by August each year, some 80 percent of the annual sales of new motorcycles, mopeds and scooters have taken place, so the speculation about annual market performance starts to look a lot more reliable.
My ‘guesstimate’ in the last edition, made before the half year ACEM data had been released, that growth in registrations for the period January to June 2018 would be greater than +5.5 percent (IDN June/July) has proven to be correct. Indeed, I was on the low side, I was conservative in my forecasting.
As reported in this month’s front cover story, ACEM data shows that 564,851 motorcycles were sold in the EU in January to June 2018, growth of +7.2 percent compared to the 526,889 sold in the first six months of 2017.
Based on the available data to August (extrapolated ACEM/June data for France), it now looks like we can make a quite accurate forecast for 2018. IDN forecasts that 2018 will see a minimum +6.0 percent growth for the full 12 months of 2018, which equates to approximately 54,800 extra motorcycles sold in the (currently!) 28 member countries of the EU for a 968,500 annual total.
In fact, if some of the present trend data continues, growth could well be as high as 8.5 percent for the full year 2018 - an extra 77,500 motorcycles compared to 2017.
However, in all likelihood the eventual outcome will be somewhere between the low and the high forecasts - at around 6.5 to 7.5 percent. Based on what we are seeing in the detail of the data we have access to (which is by no means as current or as complete as would be needed for a super accurate forecast), I am prepared to go with 7.0 percent growth for the 2018 full year - an extra 63,900 motorcycles compared to ACEM’s 2017 figure, for a 2018 full year forecast of 977,600 new motorcycle registrations.
To fully understand what this growth means though, we need to go back to where this most recent cycle started - in 2013, with ACEM data showing that after the years of decline the market bottomed out that year at 748,529 EU motorcycle registrations.
The following year (2014) saw a return to growth (+7.29 percent, 803,122 units), followed by a further +10.99 percent growth in 2015 (891,369 units). Then came the statistical anomalies. The Euro 3 pre-registrations fuelled a spike of +13.27 percent apparent “growth” to 1,009,678 units for 2016.
In fact, somewhere between 50,000 and 100,000 of those motorcycles never actually went anywhere, least of all into the hands of an enthusiastic buyer and onto the roads of Europe.
That theoretical 2016 figure subsequently saw an equally theoretical decline of -9.53 percent in 2017, with new registrations recorded at 913,445 units - up on the 2015 figure, but woefully short of the 2016 number.
Based on the exclusive research we published earlier this year (IDN February/March), a “real” figure for 2016 was more likely to be in the region of 949,600 registrations for a +6.54 percent growth over 2015 - a result that confirmed that the rate of growth had started to slow down. That slowdown in growth rate continued through 2017 at +2.50 percent for registrations of around 973,500 units by the end of last year, when the figures are adjusted for the Euro 3 inventory that was sold in early 2017, but which fell outside the scope of that year’s registration data.
If we were close to being right in our calculations (a plus or minus two percent statistical error would still have resulted in a slowing of the rate of growth), then the +7.0 percent forecast (+63,900 units) we are making on the ACEM data would still be valid in the ACEM data context, but rather than growth to 977,600 units by the end of 2018, we could be looking at in the region of only 4,000 or so additional units over the real 2017 performance after all.
Rather than a recovery from a 2017 decline, instead we’d be looking at a fifth straight year of growth, but by such a small percentage compared to the “real world” 2.5 percent growth seen in 2017 that the market this year would, essentially, be flat - no growth at all worth celebrating.
Either way, it would take a massive leap forward in consumer demand for new motorcycles for us to see a genuine figure of over 1m sales for the year and a best EU market performance since before 2010. If we are right about the 2018 outcome, then such a moment could still be some time off and we may, in fact, be about to see a genuine (no statistical) decline in new motorcycle registrations in 2019 - and who knows, maybe beyond that too.
For now, though, we can at least hope that the prospects for the upcoming INTERMOT, EICMA and other shows, and for the year ahead, are better than at any time in the past decade - they should be, but it is clearly is misleading to try to put a number on the feelgood factor.

‘fifth year of growth?’

News Briefs

Organiser AMC Promotions has closed what used to be known as the Salon de la Moto, Scooter, Quad et Équipement (the ‘Paris Show’ – itself formerly known as Mondial du Deux Roues) and folded it in with the Mondial De L’Auto and Mondial De La Mobilité as the Mondial De La Moto – at the Porte de Versailles expo facility adjacent to the Paris ring road (Périphérique) from 4–14 October 2018 – a clash with the dates for INTERMOT at Cologne.

In response to an anti-theft campaign supported by the MCIA in the UK, Honda UK has partnered with British security specialist Datatool to become the first manufacturer to provide free motorcycle trackers. Tracking equipment will be offered free-of-charge to riders of every single on-road Honda motorcycle on purchases from Monday 2nd July 2018.

The free trade deal signed between the EU and Japan is outstandingly good news for the EU motorcycle industry. The 6% import tariff on Japanese made units will, eventually, go away. Less good news for the UK though. Once outside the EU, British bikers will still be paying the tariff. Worse, one of the primary incentives for Japanese auto makers (Honda, Nissan and Toyota) to produce in the UK will also have disappeared.

Q1 Kawasaki results (period ended June 30) show sales in its motorcycle and engine division at 73.9bn yen (+8.8%) for a marginally reduced operating loss of -3.3bn yen. The company says that the modest growth that they saw in motorcycle markets, mainly in Europe, is continuing with the decline in demand seen in emerging markets bottoming out.

Parts Europe is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the legendary Thor MX apparel brand. Founded in Sweden by Torsten Hallman, a former professional motocross racer (four-time MX World Champion) and then Husqvarna dealer, Hallman is widely credited as being one of the pioneers who introduced MX into the United States in the late 1960s. He started what became THOR Motocross (Torsten Hallman Original Racewear) by selling pants and gloves from the trunk of his car at MX races.

AJP, the Portuguese enduro and off-road motorcycle manufacturer has appointed Torque Racing as its UK importer.

Millions of jobs are likely to be displaced by automation, but a report from the World Economic Forum (in Switzerland) has suggested that while robots will displace 75 million jobs globally by 2022, their impact on production and commerce will create 133 million new, alternate jobs - a "net positive". The think tank says that advances in computing would free up workers for new tasks.

Honda

Bou HRC make it 12 consecutive Trials Championships

The Repsol Honda factory team and rider Toni Bou (32, Spain) have won the 2018 FIM Trial World Championship – the 12th consecutive time Bou has won the championship, clinching his first on HRC’s Montesa COTA 4RT factory bike in 2007. Bou has also won his 12th consecutive X Trial World Championship, an indoor competition raced on artificially prepared trials tests.

Overcoming injuries in the pre-season X Trial World Championship, Bou started off the season by winning the Trial GP in Spain, then after finishing 4th and 2nd in Japan, he won the next four rounds. Round 4, Portugal, was his 100th Trial World Championship victory.
The Montesa COTA 4RT is a liquid-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder in an aluminium twin-tube frame with 21” front and 18” rear wheels.

Newfren

New brake shoes and discs for 2019

Based near Turin, Italy, Newfren is one of the market’s leading brake pad, disc and clutch plate manufacturers, which started as a brake shoe specialist. The company says it still offers “the most complete catalogue of motorcycle and scooter brake shoes in Europe”.
Founded in the 1950s by Alessandro Barbero, Newfren were innovators and early adopters of a number of new brake technologies - such as bonded friction material, gravity and high pressure die casting, and brake shoes without rivets. 

The revolutionary glues that Barbero developed are said to have “changed the production of brake shoes forever”. Replacing the rivets for fixing the friction material on the jaws (“bells”) with glue established the first motorcycle and scooter brake shoe bonding manufacturing process in Europe.
The process has since evolved of course, with production techniques such as the introduction of grinding with the open tumbling shaft perfecting the stopping power, and durability and reliability of brake shoes thanks to the parallel evolution of industrial machinery for specific purposes.
Today Newfren remains the largest manufacturer of brake shoes in Europe and has continued to innovate with developments such as their new, patented water-grooved friction material for brake shoes.

The company says that EICMA this year will see it introduce a new 2019 range of brake shoes and additions to its discs and pads programmes. In brake disc terms, Newfren has enjoyed considerable success with its factory direct replacement and upgrade disc options for Triumphs and other brands, and its classic floating discs for street bike and off-road applications are top-sellers.
The company is still in family ownership with Valter Barbero at the helm, and in recent years has invested heavily in new manufacturing technology at their 65,000 sq ft facilty/100,000 sq ft site.

Ahead of industry requirements where environmental manufacturing and compound formula requirements are concerned, Newfren has been granted UNI EN ISO 9001-2000 certification for their quality control systems and ABE certification from the German KBA for many of their products. As part of a continuing process, they are on the way to obtaining environmental certification ISO 14000.
www.newfren.com

Kappa

Accessories for Benelli TRK 502

Italian parts and accessories brand Kappa  has introduced a series of travel accessories for the Benelli TRK two-cylinder adventure bike, including bike-specific and universal accessories which enable riders to create a configuration based on their travel needs and personal preferences.

Parts include a rack for side cases (KL8703), specific for the Monokey, retro fit cases, which hold the K-Venture KVE37, a square shaped model made of aluminium with a 37 litre capacity, available in "natural" aluminium or painted black. These cases feature specifically designed waterproof internal bags which can be removed without taking the cases from the bike. They can also be fixed to the saddle or other places on the bike using the elastic straps provided as standard.

Further accessories include a Monokey universal plate for a top case and a high, transparent windscreen, specifically designed for the TRK 502, offering increased protection against the wind (52 x 38 cm H x L), substituting the original screen. If more aerodynamic protection is required, there is also an adjustable and compact spoiler/deflector available in transparent or smoked versions.
Other options are a lower engine guard as well as an upper guard, plus supplementary fog lamps installed on the engine guard with an aluminium body, using LED technology and a waterproof switch to be installed on the handlebars. Rounding off these accessories are a toolbox attachment kit, a Smart Bar screw kit for electronic devices and a tankbag/rucksack, which can be attached with magnets or straps or can be worn as a rucksack.

KAPPA S.R.L.
www.kappamoto.com

National Cycle

VStream for FZ-10/MT-10

Maywood, Illinois-based manufacturer National Cycle now has VStream Windscreens in tough 4.5 mm Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate for the updated 2017 to current Yamaha FZ-10/MT-10.

This high-quality material, along with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, provides “outstanding clarity, impact strength and scratch resistance unmatched by any windscreen maker worldwide”.

These new windscreens are available in three heights - Sport in dark tint, Sport-Touring in light tint, and Touring in clear. “This means there is a perfectly sized windscreen for almost every rider. All will offer improved wind protection and riding comfort compared to OEM or other aftermarket windscreens”.
VStream’s patented, advanced “V” profile helps push wind out and away from the rider’s helmet, “resulting in a calmer, quieter riding environment”. All polycarbonate windscreens from National Cycle are protected by a three-year warranty against breakage.

Also seen here in 4.5 mm Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate are VStream+ designs in three different sizes and tints for the ‘17-‘18 Yamaha MT-07. The “+” indicates the addition of a highly engineered mounting bracket made specifically for this model.
Other recent additions to the VStream line include model-specific designs in a choice of heights and tints for the ‘17-‘18 BMW G310GS, 2018 Honda Gold Wing, ‘17-‘18 Kawasaki Z1000SX Ninja, 2018 Kawasaki H2 SX, and the ‘17-‘18 Yamaha FZ-09. All are said to offer improved excellent protection and riding comfort compared to other aftermarket windscreens - “they're the perfect match for this combination of urban commuter/streetfighter”.
National Cycle is an international supplier with a long-established distribution network, making National Cycle/ZTechnik products easy to source.
National Cycle/ZTechnik will be exhibiting at INTERMOT, Hall 6.1/Stand A008, and at EICMA, Hall 13/Stand M88.

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.
www.nationalcycle.com/support-intl-dist

Rainers Sports

Zafiro and Verona

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.
New products include these short, urban ‘Verona’ boots, said to be ideal for scooters and naked bikes. The boot is made from strong vintage cowhide leather and features include panel gear and ankle protectors, as well as soft, padded leather at the top.
The new ‘Zafiro’ ladies’ jeans are made from a strong fabric effect leather and have hip protectors; they also feature adjustable and removable knee protectors and flexion panels at the knees.

RAINERS SPORTS
www.rainers-sports.com

Capit

WarmMe heated clothing by Capit

Best known for its award-winning tyre warmers and paddock accessories, Italian specialist Capit has used its experience in precision control of heating circuits in developing the new WARMME heated clothing range. The battery heated socks allow the user to maintain feet warmth in cold locations and conditions during any outdoor activity, especially during the winter riding season.
They use an infra-red heating technology with carbon heating elements that help to spread the heat evenly, avoiding hot spots. With a sporty look, they are made in cotton and Spandex for durability, are soft and washable by hand at 30 °C. Once charged/recharged, the thin battery is inserted in a little pocket at the top of the sock and connected to the internal heating circuit through a special cable.
The battery is equipped with a button to select one of the three temperature levels. The battery can keep the foot area warm for up to seven hours. 

Also seen here, the battery in the new WarmMe motorcycle gloves features an easy-touch button that is backlit with an easy-read LED indicating the heating power. They are equipped with rigid protectors and a new wiper design for the index finger that is made of soft rubber with a triangular profile that follows the shape of the glove better.

CAPIT PERFORMANCE
www.capit.it

German motorcycle registrations

Germany: motorcycles +7.67% to August

The latest data from the IVM, the motorcycle trade association in Germany, shows motorcycle registrations in August at +20.87 percent (10,028 units), having been +2.28 percent (10,835 units) in July. Registrations for the year to August were +7.67 percent (92,402 percent).

In total PTW terms, August was +24.61 percent (15,855 units), having been +8.03 percent (16,533 units) in July and +11.68 percent (129,460 units) for the first eight months, as the moped and scooter/small displacement markets continue to recover in Germany.
The top selling model has been the BMW R 1200 GS (6,518 units YTD), followed by the Yamaha MT-07 (2,795), Kawasaki Z900 (2,785), Z 650 (2,467) and Honda CRF 1000 (2056).
With five models in the Top 20, BMW remains motorcycle market leader, though with a reduced share (-8.04%) of 21.19 percent/19,580 units. Kawasaki is second with a +25.9 percent increase in share to 12.38 percent/11,437 units YTD; Honda third (11.81%/10,917 units), KTM fourth (10.68%/9,868 units) and Yamaha fifth (10.43%/9,636 units).
All sectors of the German market are up except for the small Tourer and Luxury Tourer market; sportsbikes are top with 29.06% of the market (26,852 units YTD), followed by Naked style bikes with 28.12% of the market (25,986 units).

VOZZ Helmets

The revolutionary VOZZ rear opening helmet is coming to Europe

The Australian designed VOZZ RS 1.0 is described as “the most advanced motorcycle helmet in the marketplace”.

Unlike regular pull-on/pull-off helmets, the VOZZ is a full-face rear access, dual-locking helmet incorporating the Voztec system. The helmet is the only commercially available full-face helmet without a chinstrap - instead having a fully adjustable chin cup.
The VOZZ helmet design is “sleek, with a snug fit and aerodynamic shape that helps make it the best fitting helmet in the market today”. It comes in three shell sizes with six fractional fittings from XS to XXL and in eight solid colours. 

A primary feature of the VOZZ concept is the Safety Release System (SRS), developed to help medical staff in emergencies. “Allowing for the quick and safe removal of the front shell after impact, this is a world first for paramedics and is said to provide a safer alternative of removal, within a few minutes, without having to cut the helmet off and risk further damage to the neck, spine or head regions.

The RS 1.0 also offers increased peripheral vision, is fitted with an anti-fog visor and equipped with a dual locking security system. The design is said to give riders a “superior range of head movement” compared to conventional helmet designs, with buffeting dramatically reduced and directional visor stability.
The 3-point locking system delivers static positioning on the head; ergonomic fitment reduces fatigue; easy rear-access eliminates ear folding, and the RS 1.0 can easily be put on or taken off, even while wearing gloves.

VOZZ HELMETS
www.vozzhelmets.com

TecMate

OptiMate SOLAR, getting the Drag Specialties motorcycles ‘ready to ride’ at Sturgis! 

TecMate’s advanced OptiMate brand Solar battery charging tools have been gaining traction in the market place rapidly since their introduction. At this year’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in the United States the company was set up with Drag Specialties / Parts Unlimited - the company’s exclusive North American distributor.

Though there primarily to help the sales team promote the OptiMate range, with some sales of the Solar chargers being made - especially to people who had transported their bikes in closed trailers - one classic opportunity to showcase their Solar products came with the show bikes that TecMate’s distributor uses at events within the USA.
These bikes don’t get ridden very often and subsequently their batteries are not always charged well enough to fire the engine up or demonstrate the installed accessories, especially the electronics and lights. 

TecMate CEO/CTO Martin Human takes up the story: “We mounted an OptiMate Solar 20W (TM522-2) and OptiMate Solar 40W (TM523-4) kit to portable A frame displays and put them to work saving, charging and then maintaining those show bike batteries that had become “needy” - making sure the bikes provided continuous service throughout the duration of the Rally.
“The OptiMate Solar line features a smart charger-monitor that provides battery status information around the clock - when it is charging the battery during the day and when the battery is at rest overnight. You can even switch the charger-controller from battery to battery to check battery condition, see which battery needs charging most, before you hook up the solar panel.
“Once hooked up and the panel receives sun, the Solar Charge light blinks confirming solar power is being delivered, and one of the three battery status lights indicate charge progress. When night falls, or if the smart charger-monitor senses no solar power is being delivered, it changes into a battery monitor with one of the three charge status blinks, indicating battery status.”

Martin says the 10W TM522-1 kit (12V 0.8A max.) and 20W TM522-2 kit (12V 1.6A max.) are “ideal for all powersports vehicles” but that if you need to rescue a battery faster, the 40W TM523-4 (12V 3.3A) is the charger of choice.
“No one cares about their battery until it’s dead. But that might be more frequent than necessary if the vehicle is stored far from AC power, as was the case at Sturgis. With OptiMate Solar you don’t have to change your mindset though.
“Here in Europe we know that can be a big problem when touring, when vacationing, especially off-roading and adventure touring, and at the races - which are often in remote areas where power supply access isn’t guaranteed. Provided there is sunshine, with Optimate Solar you are never without power - just connect and forget, no more battery problems”!

TECMATE
www.tecmate.com
www.optimate1.com

Macna

First heated glove with laminated Outdry

New from Macna, the Neutron glove is “not your average winter glove”, says the Netherlands based company, “but a heated winter glove with an Outdry membrane”.
Instead of being a “loose” layer, the waterproof Outdry membrane is laminated to the outer layer of the glove, meaning that “the glove can't suck itself full of water. It is a common problem with a lot of so-called waterproof gloves, that the waterproofing is used in such a way that it cannot prevent accumulation.

“Our technique eliminates that problem - there is no space for water to accumulate in. Simple. Problem solved. It also means that, in the wet, the glove can keep more of the warmth generated by the electric heating system in the hands, which in turn allows the electric heating system to work more efficiently”.

The 7.6V battery is tucked into the cuff, and the controller can be set to 3 different settings and can last 4 hours before it needs a recharge.
The glove has hard external knuckle and finger protection, a 30 degree buckle (on the ergonomic cuff strap), ‘Ergothumb’ (the finger and thumb part consist of one piece of leather, so no pressing seams), Side Eye (reflective elements), screencleaner (integrated mini rain wiper for the visor) and ‘Touchtip’, a conductive fingertip for smartphone/navigation control.

MACNA
www.macna.com

Kellermann

Micro S DF Dark, Bullet 1000 RB and Atto DF

Prolific German lights designer Kellermann has updated its popular micro 1000 DF Bullet Light as an even smaller 3-in-1 light with tinted glass.
The micro S DF Dark is an “extremely compact” combination rear light that means “all three functions almost disappear at the rear of the motorcycle”, for the company’s cleanest custom install yet.
The micro 1000 family of LEDs is one of the really traditional ranges of indicators from Kellermann and have been installed on different kinds of motorcycle models for more than 15 years. The new micro S DF Dark “represents the trend to even more compact motorcycle lights”.

Micro S DF Dark “extremely compact” combination rear light

“The new micro S DF Dark is really super small, it would even fit six times into the larger micro 1000. This allows an extreme compact and individual design of the tail of the bike with the complete electronics housed in the high-quality casing.”
Also seen here, the stronger new Bullet 1000 RB combination rear and brake light with a 3-year warranty “presents a distinctive rear and brake light in classic bullet design”.

Bullet 1000 RB combination rear and brake light

To date the Kellermann Bullet range already has included options with indicators (Extreme), indicators and position lights (PL) and 3-in-1 combinations with indicator, rear and brake light (DF), but not a rear and brake combination before.
The range of new options it gives bike designers for redesigning the tail of the motorcycle now include being able to combine the distinctive new Bullet 1000 RB with the Bullet 1000 or their super compact Atto indicators.
Finally, the Atto DF three-way combination light is as small and powerful as they come. Indeed, the company says that it is the smallest street legal motorcycle combination indicator-rear-brake light in the world, combining indicator function with rear/brake light.

The Atto DF three-way combination light is as small and powerful as they come

Kellermann CEO Dr. Stefan Wöste says: “The Atto DF offers unbelievable illuminating power - typical for all Kellermann products. But behind it, is a real hidden masterpiece. The sought after 3-in-1 function in such a minimalistic casing allows for an ultra-clean custom solution.
“But, of course, street safety always comes first for Kellermann - the DF visually almost disappears on the bike, but once it kicks into action, it has relentless illuminating power in indicator, rear or brake light function.”
All three can be plugged directly into the 12 volt net and feature Kellermann’s proprietary EXtranz (Extreme Optical Transparency) technology. They come with Kellermann’s high power LED technology, long life protection guard and are IC operated at 330 kHz. The result is “sensational illuminating power and minimal size at the same time”.

KELLERMANN GmbH
www.kellermann-online.com