Parts Unlimited/Drag Specialties

Parts Unlimited/Drag Specialties
Spring NVP Product Expo
Louisville, Kentucky, 16-17 February 2019

This year saw Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited set up shop at the recently and expensively refurbished downtown Kentucky International Convention Centre at Louisville, Kentucky, for the spring 2019 Dealer Expo. The excellent and spacious venue could have swallowed the event, but record numbers of vendor and brand booths, and of attending dealers, made it a well-organised and busy business weekend that rewarded and motivated in equal measure…

The Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties Spring NVP Product Expo proved to be the biggest Expo ever put on by LeMans Corporation.  

"The event not only hit its highest attendee numbers of any previous Expo, but it also exceeded all other U.S. distributor shows by spanning over 8,000 sq. m with more than 240 leading exhibitors, including 25 brands, that were new to the Expo. 
"The expanded show space allowed for larger displays to showcase the newest products and accommodate the record number of attendees."
Jeff Derge, Vice President of Sales, said: "Our first year in Louisville could not have gone better.  Thank you to the dealers, vendors and our team for working the weekend with us.  This show is such an important part of improving our industry. There are so many great new products on the market this year, and dealers were able to spend quality time talking with the vendors and reps to really get an understanding of these products. In the end, the dealers who attended will deliver a better shopping experience for every customer that enters their stores."
The weekend kicked off on the Thursday with training for the Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties Sales Reps which extended into Saturday and also included dealer training from Alpinestars, Fat Baggers, Rekluse, S&S and others.  Expanded Expo floor hours both Saturday and Sunday provided dealers ample time to visit exhibitors and see the newest products.    

The 2019 Spring Apparel Fashion Show was a highlight of the show floor during Saturday's Happy Hour.  Gracing the catwalk were new collections from over 15 brands highlighting Thor, ICON, Moose, Arctiva, Slippery and Z1R.
Mike Collins, President of LeMans Corporation, commented: "What a way to kick off the 2019 season.  I've never felt such enthusiasm and optimism from dealers, vendors and reps.  We all need events like this as a reminder as to why we are in this business.  It was a fantastic gathering and we've set the bar high for our next event."
The event came amid a slew of new vendor announcements for 2019 from Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited - from Eibach (UTV springs and accessories) to Galfer USA (V-twin and street bike brake pads and rotors) to Fat Baggers (motorcycle parts and trike conversions), Rekluse (clutches), Woessner (pistons) and WildASS seats.
Following the sale of CruzTOOLS by Dan Parks, the new owner, CycoActive Riding Gear (Seattle), became a first time NVP exhibitor, with Parts Unlimited renewing its long-standing relationship with the lifetime guarantee backed CruzTOOLS brand of hand tools and roadside emergency tool kits for most powersports vehicles, including street bikes, dual-sport, adventure and off-road motorcycles - "professional-grade, bike-specific tools and kits designed for reliable roadside or trailside repairs."
Owned by Race Winning Brands, the Wiseco and Pro-X parent company, Boise, Idaho, Rekluse joined the Parts Unlimited portfolio, offering its award-winning off-road and cruiser clutches, including the TorqDrive Clutch Pack and RadiusX.
In other news, Parts Unlimited has renewed its sponsorship as the Official Powersports Distributor of American Flat Track for the 2019 season.
"Parts Unlimited has proven an essential ally as we continue to grow our fanbase within the motorcycle community at large," said Michael Lock, CEO of American Flat Track. "Our fans are motorcycle enthusiasts and will undeniably recognise the value in names like Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties within our family of series partners."

Newfren

Made in Italy brake discs - a complete range

Based near Turin, Italy, Newfren is one of the market’s leading brake pad, disc and clutch plate manufacturers. Founded in the 1950s by Alessandro Barbero, the company says it still offers “the most complete catalogue of motorcycle and scooter brake shoes in Europe".

Vintage

Today Newfren remains the largest manufacturer of brake shoes in Europe and is also a leading brake pad and clutch component manufacturer. In brake disc terms, Newfren has enjoyed considerable success with its factory direct replacement and upgrade steel disc options for Triumphs and other brands, and its classic floating discs for street bike and off-road applications are top- sellers.
In the off-road brake discs market, Newfren has equipped race bikes for Antonio Cairoli, Oscar Polli, Simone Agazzi and the Maddii Racing Team.
The experience gained by developing products for the most extreme applications has allowed them to translate that experience into high performance fixed brake discs, solid discs, floating discs with steel hub and oversized floating discs with steel hub, laser-cut in AISI420 steel, hardened, protective- coated and precision-ground at Newfren's factory near Turin.

Off-road

Newfren says that the 'flagship' of its brake disc production is the hardened and coated AISI420 steel with an Ergal 7075T6 machined-from-solid hub for vintage applications - with some diameters exceeding 300 mm, where "very tight tolerances and high-level precision machining is required".
For road bikes, race development with Moto3 and CIV Championship teams have produced a range of hardened and coated AISI420 steel rotors with hubs machined from solid in Ergal 7075T6 and anodised alloys.

Road

To complete its range, Newfren offers a wide range of brake discs for moped and scooter applications. In most cases these are fixed brake discs moulded in AISI420 steel.
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 its 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 its quality control systems and ABE certification from the German KBA for many of its products. As part of a continuing process, they are on the way to obtaining environmental certification ISO 14000.

NEWFREN S.R.L
www.newfren.it

SBS

Upgraded SBS sintered brake pads for new generation ADV bikes

Leading Danish brake pad and disc manufacturer SBS is offering an upgraded SP compound for modern adventure, sports and touring bikes, including their SBS960-SP for the new BMW R1250GS, SBS706-SP for KTM1290 Super Adventure and SBS940-SP for the Honda CRF1000 Africa Twin.

The pads deliver "fade free, consistent and reliable performance under extreme riding conditions and throughout the long brake pad lifetime. They have a high thermal stability in combination with very low brake disc wear.
"This state-of-the-art Direct Resistance Heating/EVO sintered compound is developed for strong initial bite to give instant brake feeling, easy modulation and powerful in-stop performance. The NUCAP NRS technology we use secures a mechanical and indestructible bonding of the compound". 
For ideal brake balance and to avoid rear wheel lock-up, SP is recommended for the front and LS for the rear.

SBS FRICTION
www.sbs.dk

Sifam

'Venge' S441 S-Line full-face

French specialist Sifam has added to its S-Line own brand helmets programme with the 'Venge' S441, a full-face road helmet that they describe as "quiet and functional with a sporty look – an ideal choice for everyday comfort".

The newly designed interior uses a removable and washable liner with high density foams that deliver good support, comfort and optimal sound control. It has an internal smoked sun screen and a large field of vision that is maintained in all conditions thanks to its included Pinlock anti-fog lens, delivered as standard.
The aerodynamic 'Fast-Back' style shell features an optimised ventilation system with a wide chin port and two front vents with double outlet extraction at the rear. Closure is by double-D buckle.

SIFAM
www.sifam.fr

Supersprox

Super custom sprockets

In addition to its range of standard sprockets, specialist Supersprox also offers a rather unique custom service for dealers and enthusiasts with special requirements.
Supersprox General Director DJ Maughfling told IDN: "Supersprox is already an exclusive, high quality product with a wide application range. We have more than 16,000 application variations in our current range. 

"During the past two years, we have been experimenting with custom parts production from our Poland and USA locations. The service is free from any additional charges, and the consumer pays the same price for a custom sprocket as he would for any other Supersprox-stealth.
"For example, if a rider with special gearing requirements or special wheels wanted 520, green, 45 teeth and special mounting, then we can produce that sprocket in seven days."
The range of options includes 520, 525, 530 chain size sprockets, with 38 through 53 teeth; plus 55, 60, 70 teeth. They can be made in a choice of colourways such as gold, red, blue, silver, black, orange and green.

SUPERSPROX
www.supersprox.com

Vertex

Vertex expands battery line

Usually better known as a piston specialist, Italian specialist Vertex has expanded its battery line for road, and off-road motorcycles and scooters with a range of advanced technology batteries made with "highly dispersed Nano Gel electrolytes and higher discharging capability Pb-Ca Tin alloy grid structure". 

Vertex Pistons & Power Battery Line for road, and off-road motorcycles and scooters has expanded with a range of advanced technology batteries

Enclosed in a resistant ABS cover and sealed with Cos and TTP technology, Vertex says these batteries have a low self-discharge ratio with 1-year shelf life, a cycle life of +15% longer than a traditional battery, a wide operation temperature range (-30°C/+60°C), a better recharge capacity and an excellent vibration resistant capability - "making them safe, reliable and powerful".
In addition to these Nano Gel technology batteries Vertex says it will also be launching a second, quality/price-point line of acid batteries in its 'Pistons & Power' product range in 2019.

VERTEX PISTONS/VP ITALY S.R.L.
www.vertexpistons.com

HP Corse

HP Corse for KTM 790 Duke

Italian specialist HP Corse has three different exhausts available for the KTM 790 Duke, two of which are Euro 4 approved, the third available in "race only" version; the two Euro 4 versions with high level silencers - the 4-Track and the EvoXtreme - the 'Hydroform Corsa' track versions - with a shorter, race style design.

EvoXtreme for KTM Duke 790

The company say that the 4-Track version "loves adventure, fully embodying the desire for escape and the purest motorcycle spirit". Dyno and street tested in "the most demanding situations", 4-Track "guarantees reliability and gives the Duke elegant back lines" while delivering power gains at low and medium speeds; available in two materials and three different finishes - titanium, satin steel, black steel in choice of styles, including their unique octagonal design.
The 310 mm, high level Euro 4 approved EvoXtreme is designed for the original manifolds, redesigning the profile and rear look of the Duke, "adding new aggressiveness and wickedness." With a small carbon cover, it is available in silver steel, black steel or titanium. The silencer body has an irregular shape and shrinks to slip-on securely without using welds. The bottom is in carbon fibre with a "slash" profile join.

Hydroform Corsa for KTM Duke 790

The Hydroform Corsa "fully embodies the racing spirit" and is formed under high pressure to allow a design and profile that would not be possible using conventional bending and welding techniques.
It features a reduced wall thickness without compromising strength and rigidity, a mesh grille, reduced weight and excellent gas flow due to the perfectly smooth internal walls; available only in "race" version without dbk.
A Euro 4 approved 400 mm 4-Track is also available for the BMW R 1250 GS and 1200 GS, weighing less than the OE exhaust at 3,920 kg in the satin or black steel versions or just 3,470 kg in titanium.

4-Track for BMW R 1250 GS

Available in the same two materials and three finishes (with hydroformed end cap), the 4-Track for the Honda 'Africa Twin' (and all 'Maxi Enduro', Sport Touring/Adventure models and the latest generation Crossovers) "guarantees reliability and gives the Africa Twin a slimmer rear profile which improves dynamic performance while improving performance, especially at low and medium speeds".

HP CORSE
www.hpcorse.com

Puig

Electronic control for BMW screens

Spanish specialist Puig has "gone a step further" in terms of custom windscreen solutions for riders of different stature and in differing riding conditions with its new Electronic Regulation System for 2013-2019 BMW R1200-1250GS and GSA models.

This new electronic lifting/lowering mechanism system (part #9718N) works at the touch of a button to raise or lower the motorcycle's screen while riding, enabling the rider to regulate the air flow around the helmet and upper body.
The mechanism allows for the OEM windshield to be raised 60 mm higher than with the original OE manual mechanism and by up to 20 mm lower for off-road riding.
The installation does not require any additional hardware since it "substantially improves the rigidity of the OE assembly mechanism". The ERS has been designed to be model-specific and can be mounted with either the OEM screen or Puig's own screens. The company says the installation does not require mechanical or electronic knowledge and comes with simple printed instructions with additional videos available on the company website.

PUIG/MOTOPLASTIC S.A.
www.puig.tv

Piaggio Group

Piaggio opens 500th MotoPlex

As the Piaggio Group continues to develop its Group dealer outlet programme, the company announced in April that it has now completed the opening of its 500th Motoplex multi-brand store worldwide with the opening in Istanbul. The programme is designed to "to improve and in part replace our traditional two-wheeler distribution network of more than 3,300 dealers".

Launched in 2015, the Motoplex plan is designed to see a "gradual conversion, achieved by optimising geomarketing and increasing consumer traffic in stores - which is up more than 30% with Motoplex.
"Motoplex is the most innovative retail model for the two-wheeler industry and enables dealers to leverage the potential of the Group brands and products in the same outlet. Each Motoplex store provides the full offer of the Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands in a single location, together with services, accessories, merchandising and entertainment, to give customers an exciting global overview of the two-wheeler world.
"The new store in Istanbul – Turkey's largest city with more than 14 million inhabitants and the country's main financial, business and cultural centre – houses the showroom, a lounge bar and a service training centre, providing assistance for owners of Piaggio Group vehicles".

In the last few months, Motoplex stores have also opened in Spain, (Madrid and Malaga), Germany (Berlin), Malta and in Patrasso (Greece), one of the country's largest cities. In the Asia-Pacific region, stores have opened in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, Da Nang in Vietnam, and in China in the cities of Ningbo (one of China's oldest cities), Chengdu (the capital of Sichuan province) and Hefei (the capital of Anhui province). Further outlets due to open in 2019 include a second Motoplex in New York (Brooklyn), a store in Miami, one in Philadelphia, one in Dubai, one in Beijing and a flagship store in Utrecht.
Piaggio says that "thanks to the Motoplex formula, over the years the Piaggio Group has reported an improvement in the product sales mix thanks to up-selling and cross-selling, a significant increase in sales of accessories and merchandise, and an important rise in the two-wheeler sell-out for "traditional" sales outlets converting to the new format".

Spanish motorcycles

Spain: motorcycles +9.71% YTD

The latest data from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, shows motorcycle registrations +3.48 percent for January (11,051) and +16.95 percent for February (10,748 units) to make the YTD +9.71 percent (21,799 units) - the best first two-month Spanish market performance since before 2009.

The moped market in Spain appears to be recovering (+59.69 percent, 2,860 units), though comparisons with the year-ago period are difficult because of the moped sector's 2017/2018 Euro 4 transition.
In total PTW terms the YTD in Spain was +13.85 percent (24,659 units registered in total).
Honda is market share leader in Spain so far this year, selling 4,959 units YTD for a 22.7 percent market share. Yamaha was second (3,062 units/14.0 percent); Kymco third, followed by BMW, and Piaggio fifth. The top selling motorcycle so far in 2019 is the Kawasaki Z 900.
Jose Maria Riano, Secretary General of ANESDOR, says that "the increase in the motorcycle market in the first two months of 2019 continues the trend we saw last year and points to ever more citizens choosing motorcycles as a transport option because of their urban mobility advantages. The figures also reflect the better winter weather so far.
"During 2018 the market in Spain recovered the growth trend after overcoming the Euro 4 regulatory change seen at the start of 2017. That brought a sharp drop in registration statistics during the first half of 2017."
Scooters were the largest motorcycle registrations sector in Spain in 2018, taking 58% of the 158,086 registrations for a +10 percent growth (92,016 units). Road bikes increased +19 percent to 58,980 units, with the small off-road sector growing +25 percent (6,810 units) after a big decline in 2017.
Motorcycles up to 125 cc grew +15.5% in 2018 to 86,170 units; motorcycles over 215 cc were +12.9% (79,916 units). ANESDOR is projecting 3% growth for 2019 (3.5%/163,600 units are expected to be motorcycles, with mopeds +2.3%).

Yamaha

Yamaha 2018 - motorcycle unit sales decreased in 'developed' markets

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd has announced that for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018 consolidated net sales of 1,673.1 billion yen were up +0.2% from the previous year. The company saw a decrease in operating income of 9bn yen (-6.0%), while ordinary income dropped -10.9% to 138.0bn yen, and net income for the period was down -8.1% to 93.4bn yen.

Net sales increased on the back of strong results in the emerging markets motorcycle business, the marine business and the industrial machinery and robot business.
Net sales dipped -2.2% overall due to a decrease in developed markets. Marine business net sales rose 6.4% thanks to an improved product mix and strong large outboard motor sales in North America. Power products increased 1.4%, while industrial machinery and robots rose 3.4% on the back of healthy sales of surface mounters for automotive applications.
Operating income saw increased profitability improvements thanks to sales increases in the marine business and industrial machinery & robot segment, as well as from development and manufacturing methods of platform models and global models in the motorcycle business segment.
For 2019, Yamaha Motor forecasts net sales rising +1.6% to 1,700.0bn yen, while operating income is expected to decrease -5.5% to 133.0bn yen. There will also be a -9.0% decrease in net income to 85.0bn yen on the back of an uncertain business environment due to factors such as the European economic slowdown and the US/China trade issue.

UK motorcycles registrations

UK: motorcycles +11.86% YTD

The latest data available from the MCIA, the motorcycle industry association in the UK, shows new motorcycle registrations getting off to a good start in 2019.

In January the UK market was +10.81 percent over January 2018 (5,546 units) and +13.31 percent in February (4,094 units), putting the UK at +11.86 percent (9,640 units) YTD. The moped market continues to be soft in the UK though at -2.64 percent YTD on low volumes (701 units).
February saw Honda as market leader (1,086 units), with the 'Africa Twin' as the top selling Adventure Sports model. Yamaha was second (546 units), followed by KTM.
The BMW R 1250 RT was the top selling Touring model; the Honda CBR 650 R the top selling Supersport and Kawasaki Z1000 SX the leading Sport/Touring model.
The largest segment of the UK market so far in 2019 has been the 'Naked' bikes (2,655 units), followed by scooters (2,607 units), Adventure Sports models (1,517 units), Trail/Enduro models (1,240 units) and Supersport models (673 units).

LighTech

Premium adjustable 'R-version' rearsets

Italian parts and accessory manufacturer LighTech's new 'R-version' adjustable rearsets in silver feature a new design of carbon heel guards with a distinctive premium branding 'R' logo.

Like all LighTech designs, ergonomics, light weight and high quality are central to the design with folding footpegs and toepegs, titanium bolts, special SKF high-quality bearings and 'Track-System' supports in black.
They are available for all Aprilia RSV4 '09-'18 models, '15-'18 BMW S1000 RR, 2017 and up  Ducati Panigale V4/V4S/Speciale, all 2016 and up Kawasaki ZX10R, 2017 and up Suzuki GSXR 100/RR and Yamaha R1/R1M from 2015.

LIGHTECH S.R.L.
www.lightech.it

LeoVince

'Classic Racer' Black Edition for Honda REBEL

LeoVince has developed a new line of exhaust systems for the '17-'19 Honda CMX 500 REBEL: the 'Classic Racer' Black Edition.

Described as an "exclusive product that fits well with the modern Urban Racer style, the 'Classic Racer' Black Edition is a tribute to the cafe culture, with its trumpet-shaped classic style, that, combined with LeoVince's use of innovative materials and design experience, gives a unique retro look and unmistakable sound".
Fully made from AISI 304 stainless steel, to "ensure its long-lasting durability", it is said to have a "refined" matt black, high temperature resistant ceramic coated finish".
A new end cap design has a "brushed finish and gives the classic Cafe Racer touch, which distinguishes the 'Classic Racer' Black Edition, embellished with an embossed LeoVince logo.

The 'Classic Racer' Black Edition is ECE-approved and said to be easy to install and a "perfect way to find 'vintage' charm without giving up the renowned LeoVince quality". The LeoVince LV-10 Black Edition is also available for the Honda CMX 500 REBEL.

LEOVINCE
www.leovince.com

Kappa

KV32 'Orlando' modular helmet

With over 60 years of experience, Italian parts and accessories brand Kappa has introduced 'Orlando', a new "flip-open top-of-the-range modular helmet". It is available in two colour versions, 'Basic' and 'Linear'; both have double jet/full-face certification and can be used open or closed.

Aimed at younger riders, the 'Linear' version offers "striking styling, characterised by vivid colour combinations and the fresh and gutsy graphics". The 'Basic' version is available in seven classic solid colours.
The helmet is manufactured with a thermoplastic shell and features a technically updated system to flip up the chin guard. Ventilation is supplied by two adjustable front intakes (upper and on the chin guard) and a vent positioned at the rear that cuts across the shell horizontally like a blade, in addition to the flip-up chin guard. The main visor can be adjusted to five settings and can take the Pinlock 70 DKS002 optional anti-fog lens. There is a small smoked internal sun visor, and the inner is carefully crafted in non-allergenic, fully removable and washable material.
As standard, both nose guards and wind deflectors are supplied. Sizes are unisex and range between XS/54 to XXL/63.

KAPPA
www.kappamoto.com

Andreani

Andreani 2019 cartridge kit updates

The Andreani Group, the noted Italian suspension specialist, has brought further track and street experience to updates to its popular replacement and upgrade cartridge kit programmes.

ACK cartridge kit

The flagship of the Andreani products range is the Misano cartridge, developed by its R&D team for the most popular, best-selling street bikes, naked style, vintage and large displacement scooters. The newly restyled EVO version is available for over 200 applications and has a solid reputation for reliable performance and durability.
Advanced technical features include the use of 20 mm pistons with increased oil passages, new style cartridge tubes with hard DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating treatment and a sophisticated hydraulic system that transmits excellent response in fast riding and improved comfort in urban or touring use compared to most OEM suspensions.
As an OE replacement, the Misano EVO brings levels of tunability not generally available from standard manufacturer suspensions, including compression, rebound and spring preload based on rider weight and riding style and conditions.
Also seen here, the ACK cartridge kit (Andreani Conversion Kit) has been developed by the Andreani Group R&D team for off-road motorcycles equipped with air/spring forks and is now available for all 2 and 4-stroke KTM and Husqvarna models from 85 cc and up.
The kit is made entirely from Ergal and aluminium and has a solid 12 mm rod, a practical cap provided with a spring preload adjuster, a pre-loading tube with a specially treated tube to increase smoothness, a spring in the cartridge lower to reduce friction between stem and sleeve and adjustable spring pre-load.

Misano Cartridge, EVO version

Developed to make riding off-road less tiring and to deliver maximum control of the front wheel, Andreani says that the ACK kit will provide much improved feel and absorption of the bumps and lumps of rough terrain, jumps and landings, and is designed as an easy-install direct OEM replacement.
Andreani Group also designs and manufactures a range of specialty suspension tuning, repair and service tools, machines and systems for professional technicians and race teams, and offers a regular programme of exclusive suspension courses at its high-tech manufacturing, research, development, testing and training headquarters at Pesaro (on Italy’s Adriatic coast south of Venice).
Andreani also distributes many leading suspension brands, either in Italy or internationally, including Öhlins, MIVV, Marchesini, Samco, Kayaba, Showa, Regina, SKF, Hagon, Speedy Mousse, Eibach, PFC, SuperB, Whiteline, DWS and ND Tuned.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.co

German motorcycles

Germany: motorcycles +46.96% YTD

The latest data from the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany, shows motorcycle registrations up by +9.38 percent in January 2019 (3,242 units) and +66.18 percent for February (9,635 units), making the German market +46.96 percent for the first two months of 2019 at 12,877 units registered.

In total PTW terms, January was +4.73 percent (4,363 units) and +65.32 percent in February (12,559 units), making the YTD +43.86 percent at 16,922 units registered.
The top selling model YTD was the BMW R 1250 GS (1,526 units), way ahead of the Honda 'Africa Twin' in second place (355 units), followed by the KTM 1290 Superduke R (237 units), the BMW F 750 GS (222 units) and the KTM 790 Duke (211 units) in fifth place.
With now having eight models among the top 20 best sellers, it is no surprise that BMW has stretched its German market dominance still further, having sold 4,204 motorcycle units in total YTD for a commanding 32.65 percent market share (up by +55.59 percent compared to the first two months of 2018).
Honda was second with 1,601 units sold, for a 12.43 percent market share; KTM was third (1,573 units sold, 12.22 percent share); Harley-Davidson fourth (960 units sold, 7.46 percent share) and Kawasaki fifth (7.11 percent share, 915 units sold). Yamaha, Triumph, Ducati, Husqvarna and Suzuki make up the top ten.
In percentage terms, the biggest market sector in Germany is now the Enduro segment (33.87 percent of all sales/4,362 units) and the fastest growing sectors, in percentage growth terms, are what are termed "classic" models (naked bikes etc), which account for 24.80 percent of sales (3,193 units), then Enduro (accounting for 33.87% of sales at 54% growth), with Supersports third (+23.48 percent of all sales/3,024 units) and the custom market ("chopper") fourth, which is up by +11.07 percent (7.09 percent of all sales/913 units). All segments of the German market are up for the YTD.
Total motorcycle registrations for the full year 2018 in Germany were +7.35 percent (108,296 units), with total PTW registrations +10.98 percent (155,184 units) - however, as with other of Europe's markets, while the unit numbers made good reading, some caution needs to be used when judging the apparent year-on-year 2017/2018 percentage market growth because of the several thousands of pre-registered Euro 3 models registered in late 2016 that were actually sold 'as new' by dealers in early 2017, but not recoded in the figures for that year.

Puig

HRC and Puig Hi-Tech Parts extend partnership

Spanish specialist Puig Hi-Tech Parts and HRC have agreed a two-year extension to their current collaboration. Puig and the Repsol Honda team have worked together since 2016 and in that time have taken three MotoGP World Championship titles together, including two Triple Crowns in 2016 and 2018.

Based in Barcelona, Puig is one of the largest accessory suppliers and has been designing and manufacturing motorcycle accessories since 1964, exporting to over 60 countries. Using 3D simulation technology during the development process allows for rapid experimentation to help meet the demands of racing, and the results speak for themselves – the company is internationally recognised for their dedication to maintaining high standards of design and manufacturing in their accessories for racers and road riders.
Tetsuhiro Kuwata, HRC's Director and General Manager of their Race Operations Management Division, said: “Puig Hi-Tech Parts are one of several important technical partners we have. When it comes to supplying parts for the Honda RC213V, we must be able to guarantee the best quality, and Puig are always able to deliver this. They supply what we need and fulfil our requests quickly. We at HRC are very pleased to continue working together.”
Puig Hi-Tech Parts' CEO Joan Puig (seen on the right with Manager of the HRC racing Team Alberto Puig) said: "Working closely with HRC across several seasons has provided us with an opportunity to test materials, design and manufacturing processes which we then apply to our accessories for road motorcycles.  As a team, they demand only the best and also often need a quick production time, which we are able and pleased to meet. I am sure that we can continue to emulate the success we have already achieved together".
www.puig.tv

Helmet 28

Helmet 28 adds Germany to Racer Gloves territory list

Specialist UK distributor Helmet 28 has moved to further develop its plans to be a leading European distributor of motorcycle products by signing a multi-year distribution contract for Germany with French manufacturer Racer Gloves.

George Richardson, CEO of Helmet 28, told IDN that "Racer Gloves is a brand synonymous with innovation and style that solely focuses on creating and manufacturing highly specialised gloves over a growing range of sporting disciplines, including a market leading heated motorcycle glove range. 

George Richardson, Founder Helmet 28 seen here on the left with Jonathan Chaput, International Sales Director for Racer Gloves

"Working in collaboration with expert suppliers and using the latest innovative materials, including D3O impact protection, Racer are able to produce gloves that are a long way ahead of other brands in terms of their advanced construction and safety features.
"We already distribute the Racer brand in the UK. Adding Germany, one of the largest European markets, to our territory list is a real honour and a sign of Racer’s trust in Helmet 28. There is a formidable relationship forming and I am delighted to embark upon expansion into the German market with such an exciting product – one which has proven immensely popular with dealers in the UK market."
www.helmet28.com
www.racergloves.com

Tecmate

OptiMate Ampmatic battery rescue chargers

How many times do you hear of riders arriving at an event after driving for many hours, towing the motorcycle on a trailer or with them in their van to find that when it is offloaded there's a problem - the battery is dead!
Any number of things could have drained that battery during the trip - the alarm tripped en-route or the key was left in accessory position - but the results are the same. No battery. No starting. No riding. Or if it is entered into an AMD custom motorcycle event, disqualification is staring you in the face!
Sure, you can jumpstart the bike, but how long do you need to run the engine to be sure it will start again in the morning? And if it is a lithium battery, well, jumpstarting is simply NOT recommended.
The OptiMate Ampmatic range of powerful battery chargers are the ideal rescue - hook it up and the charger does the rest, even for a battery as low as 1/2 a volt. Ampmatic chargers will determine battery condition, then how many amps it can accept to get it back up as fast as possible.
The OptiMate 6 Ampmatic delivers up to 5 amps, which is perfect for any size of 12V lead-acid power sport battery, but for a 12V battery sized from 20 to 30Ah, the kind typically found in bagger/touring V-twin motorcycles, the super-powerful new OptiMate 7 Ampmatic delivers up to 10 amps.

For 12.8V/13.2V lithium (LiFePO4) batteries, the OptiMate Lithium 4s 5A has a lithium-specific Ampmatic charge programme that will safely nurse the battery back to life and then get it back up to 'start' level fast.
When it comes to lithium, TecMate CEO Martin Human says "never JUMP, always charge. A flat lithium battery is very sensitive to sudden high current bursts and you run a high risk of permanent damage, and you might even see a little smoke being released if you jumpstart a dead-flat lithium battery."
If it is a small battery, there's no adjustment to be made on any of the OptiMate Ampmatics as the smart Ampmatic processor matches the charge rate to the battery's size and condition.
Martin says: "Ampmatic means total ease of use, or as North Americans might say, it's a 'no brainer' charger. Hook up your OptiMate Ampmatic and it gets you up and running as quickly as possible."

TECMATE
www.tecmate.com
www.optimate1.com

Matris

Matris SDK/SDR steering damper designs

Italian suspension specialist Matris has been manufacturing some of the "best speed-sensitive dampers in the world for a long time" with a design that reacts to sudden movements by automatically increasing their damping without restricting movement at slow speeds. 

SDK

The short wheelbases and high-performance engines of modern sportbikes, by their nature, are more inclined to "nervous, twitching movement", regardless of frame or suspension design.
Matris' new steering damper design improves the control the rider has of the front axle, damping all the oscillations and the rapid setting changes. The SDK and SDR dampers are said to reduce shaking of the front wheel and provide greater safety at high speeds.
Matris steering dampers "offer 13 or 16 'active', fully adjustable, hydraulic damping options with calibrated holes and micrometric points of resistance and hardness - Matris' 'speed-sensitive' progressive hydraulic damping system".

SDR

The twin tube system with titanium external cylinder and aluminium alloy coaxial internal cylinder and high tensile alloy steel single piston rod, hard chrome coating and lapped finish with PVD TIN (Titanium Nitride) surface treatment effectively delivers "zero" stiction - the friction which tends to prevent stationary surfaces from being set in motion.
They have an external tank for controlled heat compensation of fluid expansion, pressurised with nitrogen gas for greater stability at high operating temperatures.

MATRIS S.R.L.
matrisdampers.com

GPR

GPR EVO4 exhaust family - three options for F 750/850 GS

Italian specialist GPR Exhaust Systems has launched a new "family" of pipes - EVO4, for the BMW F 750 GS and BMW F 850 GS.

Sonic for F 850 GS

Euro 4 homologated, the EVO4 family is a group of exhausts developed specifically to maximise performance while being compliant with emissions and anti-tampering regulations, and that includes the use of anti-tampering screws and seals.

GP Anniversary for F 850 GS

The new exhausts available in the EVO4 range are the Sonic, GP Anniversary and M3 lines, all constructed with safety grille and anti-tampering screws, meaning that the db killer can only be removed by destroying the original screws, a clear violation of the control measures.

M3 Titanium for F 750 GS

The silencers are all CNC-machined in titanium for maximum weight saving with Ergal heat shields and a model-specific 304 TIG welded stainless steel 304 pipe. The power increase is +4% compared to the OE exhaust, which is within the maximum of 5% permitted by the regulations, with a weight saving of around 3 kg.
GPR is currently looking for additional dealers and distributors.

GPR EXHAUST SYSTEMS BY G.P.R. ITALIA S.R.L.
www.gpr.it

D.I.D Europe

D.I.D chain upgrades

D.I.D Europe has announced two new performance chain upgrades - the 520 VX3 (an upgrade to the existing VX2) and the 520 ERVT G&G (an upgrade to the existing 520 VT2 G&B).

The 520 VX3 features "Direct Energy Transfer", which is said to let the rider "feel every twist of the throttle with amazing acceleration response". It is available for a wider range of motorcycles up to 800cc (127ps/125HP) from the previous recommended limit of 750cc for the VX2 it replaces.
D.I.D says that the VX3 delivers "a longer chain life due to the increased X-ring retention and durability, and a greatly improved sealing performance".

The 520 ERVT G&G is described by D.I.D as a "revolutionary chain for Motocross and Enduro racing - born by breaking down the concept and preconception that MX chain has to be a non-sealed chain".
Described as being lighter and delivering longer life, changing the materials used has produced a 2% weight saving and 15% longer life while maintaining the tensile strength. The 520 ERVT is said to be "the clear choice of top AMA teams" because of its improved reliability, durability and performance.

D.I.D EUROPE SRL
www.dideu.it

Hevik

Upgraded 'Titanium_R' all-season jacket

We first wrote about Hevik's 'Titanium' jacket a year ago, and the company has now introduced an upgraded second version, which offers "greater comfort and enhanced safety". Several technical aspects have been improved and it is now certified to the harmonised regulation pr EN17092. It is suitable for use in all four seasons thanks to the three-layer structure and available in two colours in sizes from S to 4XL.

Under the outer polyester shell, assisted by ripstop reinforcements on the most abrasion vulnerable zones, are two layers, which can be worn together or separately: a waterproof layer (Humax), tested to a water column rating of 10,000 mm, and a second layer, which is thermal. Ventilation is by means of the Fidlock system (magnetic flap closure) for the two air intakes on the chest and five zippered openings positioned along the airflow.
The improvements also involve the fit adjustments and the pockets. The 'Titanium_R' has Level 2 protectors for shoulders and elbows and is ready to accommodate an optional back protector. Two colour options are available, black and ice grey.

HEVIK
www.hevik.com

Italian motorcycles and scooters

Italy: motorcycles and scooters +12.11% YTD

The latest data released by ANCMA, the motorcycle industry trade association in Italy, shows the Italian motorcycle and scooter market continuing to grow.
New motorcycle registrations are reported as being +7.09 percent in January (6,586 units) and +11.16 percent for February (7,861 units), making the YTD for the first two months of 2019 +9.26 percent at 14,447 units registered.

In total PTW terms, the Italian market is reported as having been +3.81 percent in January (13,545 total units) and +19.98 percent in February (16,020 total units), making the YTD for the first two months of 2019 +12.11 percent at 29,597 total units registered.
Scooter registrations were +14.96 percent for the first two months of 2019 at 15,150 units registered, with the top sellers being Honda's SH 150/300/125 range, selling 3,871 units between them YTD; followed by Piaggio's Beverly 300 ABS (919 units) and Liberty 125 ABS (656 units).
The top selling motorcycle in Italy YTD was the BMW R 1250 GS (843 units), followed by Honda's 'Africa Twin' (591 units), the Yamaha 'Tracer' 900 (447 units), the R 1250 GS Adventure (445 units) and the Benelli TRK 502/X (393 units).
For the full year of 2018 the Italian motorcycle market was reported at +12.73 (92,991 units) and +7.35 percent in total PTW registration terms (219,465 units) - however, as with other of Europe's markets, while the unit numbers for 2018 made good reading, some caution needs to be used when judging the apparent year-on-year percentage market growth compared to 2017 because of the several thousands of pre-registered Euro 3 models registered in late 2016 that were actually sold 'as new' by dealers in early 2017 - meaning that the real numbers for 2017 were higher than officially recorded.

Parts Europe

ICON Spring 2019 catalogue

With a new helmet, new racing suit, new jackets and new gloves "it's worth taking more than just one look at the ICON Spring 2019 catalogue", says Germany based exclusive distributor Parts Europe.
"If there is a manufacturer of motorcycle clothing that has its own style, it’s definitely ICON. No matter if helmets, jackets or boots - the designers from Portland/USA always deliver new impulses that are far from being mainstream.
"The new ICON Spring catalogue is packed with a lot of new stuff for everyone. The sporty rider will find a one-piece leather suit called Hypersport, and there are also CE approved gloves (compulsory in France).
"Also, the retro line ICON ONE THOUSAND offers a new jacket with matching pants called 'Nightbreed', which will be hard to top in terms of their simplicity.

"But the most exciting new product is definitely the new AIRFORM helmet. It takes up the form of the AIRFLITE shell, but it comes with a more classical shield emphasising the aggressive look. The helmet is equipped with an integrated sun shield as standard and the rear spoilers can be easily replaced by different spoilers, for example one with the same mirrored design as the shield".
www.partseurope.eu
www.rideicon.com

Arlen Ness

Arlen Ness - "The King of Custom"

AMD was saddened to hear of the death of industry legend Arlen Ness - "The King of Custom" - and someone to whom we all owe such an immense debt of gratitude and our unstinting admiration and respect.
Many words will no doubt be written about Arlen, the man as well as Arlen the customiser, in the coming days, weeks and months, but for now it is best left to his family to sum up what he meant to them.
Arlen passed on March 22nd, aged 79. This is the message that his family posted on the company's  Facebook page the day after his passing. Our thoughts are with his wife Bev, son Cory, daughter Sherri, and his grandchildren and all the members of the family, as there can be no better epitaph for anyone than to be able to say that he had "inspired"…
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce Arlen Ness the visionary, loving husband, father, grandfather and leader of our family passed away last night March 22, 2019. Arlen passed away comfortably in his home surrounded by loved ones after the most creative and inspirational life anyone could imagine.
The most important things in Arlen’s life were his wife of 59 years Beverly, his children, grandchildren, friends and motorcycles. Arlen once said that “Motorcycling has been a great ride…my whole life since I’ve been motorcycling has been wonderful. I’ve met so many nice people. Friends all over the world…. We can go almost anyplace and stay with friends. It’s been great.” With few words Arlen conveyed his priorities every day, family and friends.
Everyone who knew Arlen respects him for his achievements and for who he was as a person, both of which are superlatives. The respect is how Arlen came to deserve the commonly spoken nickname “The King of Custom Motorcycles”. Arlen rarely reflected on his own success. He never planned for it, this is because what he achieved had never been done before; it had never been dreamt of.
Arlen has touched the lives of our family, the Arlen Ness team and thousands of others around the world with his genuine character. We will announce a memorial service and celebration of life after some private time, and appreciate your understanding. We thank you for your respects and condolences.
Although the Ness family cannot put their loss into words, they can look up and smile knowing Arlen has done something that few men do in a lifetime of trying. He has inspired."

Dainese

Air Bag Wars - Dainese wins in Munich Court

Dainese has won the latest stage in a patent infringement dispute with Alpinestars concerning the sale of Alpinestars' Tech-Air airbag vests in Germany. In February a judge at the Munich Court of Appeals ruled that Alpinestars' product had infringed on the EU airbag patent that Dainese has to protect its D-air technology. 

The decision confirms a lower court ruling from 2017 that the Tech-Air street airbag vest (for road use) and Tech-Air racing airbag vest (for track use and road), manufactured and marketed by Alpinestars, infringed on Dainese’s European patent EP 2 412 257 B1. This latest decision is only now appealable at the German Federal Supreme Court.
The finding prohibits Alpinestars from "commercialising the Tech-Air street airbag vests and Tech-Air racing airbag vests in Germany; orders Alpinestars to recall any such vests which Alpinestars has supplied since 1 July 2015, and which are still in the possession of commercial customers in Germany, and orders Alpinestars to compensate Dainese for all damages suffered due to the sale of the infringing vests in Germany since 1 July 2015".
This decision is a major victory for Dainese in an intensive patent litigation fight against Alpinestars in Italy, Germany, the UK and France.
Dainese had originally accused its rival of three patent breaches, however, one was withdrawn at the end of 2016, after the Dainese application was revoked by the European Patent Office. Another, which centred on specific features of the Tech-Air vest air bladder, was declined by the German Federal Patent Court in 2018 - a decision that Dainese is appealing.
The decision in February this year found Alpinestars in contravention of a third patent that centres on the installation of an inflatable air bladder within an elastic panel constructed garment pocket - a finding that applies to Germany only.
Alpinestars has an appeal pending on the validity of this patent within the German Federal Court of Justice and is saying that the patent infringement does not, in fact, relate to the core technology used in the Tech-Air vest, stating that it wants to "clarify that this action never involved the core of Alpinestars' Tech-Air technology;  at no point, either past or present, has any action or patent infringement involved the electronic management, algorithm, or deployment mechanism, or any other part employed within Alpinestars' entirely unique and advanced Tech-Air technology".

Twin Air

Manufacturing air filters for motorcycles is easy, right? It is simply a question of cutting, stamping, printing, gluing, assembly, pre-oiling (or not), packing and shipping, right? Think again! Robin Bradley visited Twin Air at Veghel in the Netherlands to see for himself just how much care and testing goes into every air filter…

Twin Air General Manager Pieter Does

 

Whether you are working with paper, cotton, foam, gauze and mesh or any other combination or kind of filter media technology, the process, and the importance of getting it right, is an attention-to-detail minefield and a primary critical component for engine performance.
Visiting Twin Air in the Netherlands reminded me just how much attention to detail needs to go into that process and just how a filter can affect performance. Twin Air has been a leading foam air filter manufacturer for almost 50 years and only makes motorcycle and ATV air filters - with off-road and motocross performance its speciality.

A major OE filter manufacturer, with the added reach of their aftermarket programme, Twin Air can claim to have been the filter of choice for “more World and National Champions than all other air filters combined”. Since 1972, Twin Air’s owner Klaas Biermann is proud of Twin Air’s record of having supported over 300 World Champions.
The Netherlands can claim a special place in the history of motocross - the country’s sandy, gritty soil is where it all began.
It was in the Netherlands, in 1947, that the Dutch national motorcycle federation hosted an international “scramble” for teams from Great Britain, Belgium and the Netherlands, and called it a “moto-cross.” While the sport’s popularity grew steadily over the next 25 years, one thing that remained constant was the stock paper air filter designs of the time. There was a paper filter with a single layer of foam, but even that didn’t cut it for protection - after 30 minutes it was shot. In those early days of motocross, engine failures were common.
 

"In 1972 Twin Air gave the motocross world a historic boost"

It was in 1972 that Twin Air gave the motocross world a historic boost with their revolutionary approach to air filter design - a laminated, dual-foam air filter that, when soaked in a special oil, allowed free airflow into the carburettor while keeping dirt, grime, sand and water out of it. It was effective, durable, washable and reusable. It took off, and the little start-up company that invented it hasn’t stopped ever since.
Today they are available for all motocross and ATV vehicles and distributed worldwide. Twin Air filters are OEM-specified for 20+ motorcycle companies, and the official air filter of worldwide factory teams such as Honda HRC, Kawasaki Racing Team, Yamaha Racing, Red Bull KTM, Rockstar Husqvarna and many more
Twin Air’s breakthrough was to recognise the two quite different and often competing characteristics needed from a motocross air filter - high air flow and maximum particulate restriction. Their answer was to double-up on the filtration process with a fused dual-layer design that is now the go-to standard air filter architecture, and while the principle is often copied, “nobody can get close to our level of quality and performance,” says Pieter Does, General Manager.

Brand Manager Bart Ghielen

“The fused layers of open-pore foam and fine inner foam layer trap even the smallest particles. The rounder design boosts airflow, and with a revolutionary micro-gluing process to minimise the seams - shorter seams mean more flow - we have a combination that makes it possible to maximise the protection for the engine and horsepower boosting performance of improved air flow volume and speed - where air flow is concerned speed means more speed - and that comes from minimum possible disruption and restriction of the air flow. In fact, we manufacture some models with a backfire-resistant foam layer laminated to the filter so we can even eliminate the restrictive stock backfire screen from the air box.

“As engine technology has advanced, so too filter technology has had to not just keep up, but be ahead of OE engineers’ requirements in order to help them access the full potential of the machines they are designing. One of our big achievements has been to specify a quality of foam, that means that the cells are evenly sized and distributed throughout the structure of the air cleaner, making for a smooth, predictable and consistent air flow, and that is a huge advantage to the engineers and to professional as well as amateur racers.
“This also means that our motorcycle and ATV filters are truly fully washable and durable - the structure is stable and uniform - and being able to reuse a Twin Air motorcycle or ATV filter at least 50 times is common. We also use a high-quality greaseless sealing ring, with every filter assembled by hand and inspected for a perfect fit.
“For many years Twin Air factory pre-oiled filters were only available to our top professional race teams and OEM customers. The results were so good that we now offer the same factory treatment to everyone.
“We start with an original dual-stage air filter and completely submerge it in BIO liquid power filter oil. After the filter is massaged to ensure all pores are evenly coated with oil, it’s placed in a temperature-controlled room to allow the oil to completely cure. You just open the resealable bag and install.
“Another Twin Air innovation is our range of PowerFlow kits. The best filter in the world can’t do its job if there are leaks in the seal of the airbox. Twin Air’s kits ensure a leak-proof, fool-proof fit with a rigid, lightweight billet aluminium cage that replaces the flimsy plastic stock cage, and a billet aluminium flange with a rubber seal that bolts tight to the airbox. PowerFlow kits for ATVs are custom-designed for each unique application for superior airflow, improved sealing surface, removal of the restrictive backfire screen and ease of service”.
While manufacturing precision and quality control is at the heart of the Twin Air operation, the R&D and testing are the brains. Twin Air meets and exceeds the requirements of several of the applicable stringent ISO tests, starting with ISO-5011 ‘Inlet Air Cleaning Equipment’ for internal combustion engines and compressors - ‘Performance Testing’.
 
"Tests are performed using ISO-12103-1 A4 Coarse Dust"

The ISO standard establishes and specifies uniform test procedures, conditions, equipment and a performance report to permit the direct laboratory performance comparison of air cleaners. The basic performance characteristics of greatest interest are air flow restriction or differential pressure, dust collection efficiency, dust capacity and oil carry-over on oil bath air cleaners. This test code therefore deals with the measurement of these parameters.
Brand Manager Bart Ghielen explained the testing procedures. “The first test is the Air Flow or Resistance test. The filter test set-up is equipped with a computer that can programme and control the fan that drives the air flow cycle and an air flow (pressure difference) sensor. 

“The sensor determines the air pressure before and after the filter under test. During the test, the air flow is increased, and the pressure drop over the filter is continuously measured. This automated test will give information about the air resistance of a filter plus other important air property measurements such as humidity, temperature and absolute air pressure. Twin Air has developed a computer software programme that fully automates the test cycle. This software is able to measure and process the data and make a first test report.”
Finally, the difference in air resistance of different filters is plotted to help future design development.

With all the ISO test procedures required, Twin Air constantly checks and monitors their materials and procedures in-house in their own test laboratory - both before manufacturing and their finished products (once assembled) - to ensure that every batch made and sold is fully compliant.
Dust tests are performed using the ISO-12103-1 A4 Coarse Dust Test. To understand filter performance and characteristics, research on dust behaviour in an air filter has been done to give the company a reference base-line by taking the closest possible look at the kind of dust that motorcycle air filters are subjected to by using a scanning electronic microscope. Images are taken of ISO approved test dust (yes, there is such a thing), then images are taken from the dust in the tested air filter and the dust in the reference ‘absolute filter’ - the ISO approved dust gauge testing screen.
Bart continued to explain that “during the dust test, a filter to be tested is placed inside the test set-up. After the filter under test, the reference filter is tested. After testing, the dust caught by the reference filter and the filter under test is measured to calculate the overall filter efficiency and the full life capacity (how much dust in grams that can be held by the filter before the resistance is increased by 5 mbar) and its efficiency (the percentage of dust that is caught by the filter).
 
"Fused layers of open-pore foam"

“The mass of the air filter and reference filter are important measurements for this test. The masses of the air filter and the reference are measured before the test. During the test, dust is automatically injected into an air flow that is controlled at a setpoint value. After the test, the masses of the air filter and reference are measured. While the test is underway, the mass of the dust in the air filter is calculated when the pressure drop over the filter exceeds 5 mbar relative to the initial air pressure drop over the air filter.”
ISO-5001 also requires a water seep-through test. The water tests are performed by spraying water onto the filter. The per second rate at which the amount of water sprayed on the filter during the test is prescribed by the test protocol. 

“The goal of the water test is to determine the amount of water required before the water will seep through the filter. To be able to measure the moment of seep-through, a sensor is placed inside the filter under test. This sensor can be designed or adjusted to meet the layout of the filter under test. It is important to follow the layout of a filter as closely as possible. The completely automated test will determine the time that was needed before a water seep-through relative to the amount of water sprayed on the filter during the test.”

TWIN AIR
www.twinair.com