Comment by Editor, Robin Bradley

Second quarter ACEM data points to market softening

The latest data from ACEM, the Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association, shows motorcycle sales in the 28 European Union countries (ICE/Internal Combustion Engine only) as growing by +8.67% compared to the first six months of 2018 (612,690 units, up from 566,107 units), with four of the smaller EU markets still to report (Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark and Malta).
Last year new motorcycle registrations for the first six months represented over half of the eventual total for 2018 at 53.74%, with 80.74% of registrations for the first six months of 2019 coming from the 'Big Five' EU markets of Italy (137,994 units, +6.0%), France (108,453, +12.2%), Germany (104,966, +7.9%), Spain (86,839, +11.6%), and the UK being the softest of the 'majors' (56,439, +2.1%).
The data presented in this month's 'StatZone' (pages 6 to 8) is a mixture of national trade association reporting (as opposed to ACEM data) and includes some results for July as well as for the first six months of the year.
The data available that already includes July does indeed appear to suggest somewhat of a softening of new ICE motorcycle registrations (Germany and the UK for example) as we head into the second half of the year.
 
"+3% now looks realistic again"

If overall growth in the second half does soften from the +8.67% ACEM is reporting for the first six months, then rather than looking undercooked, our initial forecast for 2019 of +3 percent (+/- 2 percent), which I revised quite dramatically to around +8 or 9 percent in the context of ACEM Q1 data, is looking more realistic than I'd hoped.
The ACEM Q1 data had new registrations of ICE motorcycles for the EU 28 at around an always unsustainable and still probably Euro 4 influenced +19%.
The ACEM Q2 data shows new registrations of ICE motorcycles for 24 of the EU 28 as having grown by +2.87% compared to Q2 of 2018 (369,994 units in 2019; 359,657 in 2018).
This means that the trend underlying the headline figure of +8.67 percent for the first six months of 2019 as a whole is not everything it appears to be.
There is no question - based on the ACEM data for the first two quarters (and therefore YTD through end of June), the market is softening and doing so at an alarming rate.
Unless there is a quite dramatic and counter-intuitive uptick in new ICE motorcycle registrations in the second half of the year, then our original forecast of around +3% for the year is not just back in play but, actually, may be optimistic. The eventual outcome may be an essentially flat year.
Coming into 2019, there already was adverse trend evidence and, despite a storming first quarter in most markets (especially the 'Big Five'), what we are now seeing play out is a continuation of the 'real' 2018/2019 trend.
For the record, ACEM is reporting electric vehicle registrations in 24 of the EU 28 for whom it has data so far as +82.7% for motorcycles (5,812 units for the first six months of 2019 Vs. 3,181 for the year ago period) and +76% for electric powered mopeds (28,577 units Vs 16,259 in the first six months of 2018).
In addition to ICE motorcycles and electric vehicles, ACEM's ICE moped data shows that market as having grown by 10.98% for the first six months of 2019 at 119,249 units (107,453 for the first six months of 2018).
So, how to explain the softening of demand for 'conventional' motorcycles? Well, one of the classic pillars of negative wisdom can be ruled out as, increasingly, the motorcycle manufacturers are doing a better job of offering better products in technology and reliability terms, with forward-facing platforms that simultaneously recognise where the market's retro vibe and neo-custom zeitgeist 'happy place' is to be found.
Pricing of all that tech and future-facing platforms is an issue, for sure, and that also goes to the impacts of one of the two remaining possible areas of explanation. The market definitely needs to quicken the pace of its lightweight and, above all, middleweight displacement embrace and to be more realistic about where that sweet spot lies and to take notice of what manufacturers such as Royal Enfield are doing to bring price, displacement, retro and performance together into a demographically convincing alliance of verities.
The other primary issue is likely to be that age old enemy of 'macro economics' and consumer confidence - especially in the context of the U.S. administration's apparent determination to ignite a new cold war with trade as the battlefield, and bomb the rules-based economic order it itself authored with the Bretton Woods System back in 1944.
Having largely stood the test of time for some 70 years, it looks like, in the absence of an Iron Curtain, the present administration is bent on erecting walls of all kinds - including trade barriers. With the pace of electric PTWs adoption dragging and the various major market deadlines for abandoning internal combustion engines racing towards us, there is no question that even our market's issues have got issues!

News Briefs

As a patron of the event, FEMA (the Federation of European Motorcyclist's Associations) will speak at the First International Conference on Road Safety for Motorcyclists - Friday 20 September 2019 at the AISICO Test House & Lab in Pereto, Italy. Staged in collaboration with the European Union Road Federation (ERF), the ongoing work to make guardrails more motorcyclist-friendly is a priority theme. FEMA says the need of an international debate about this subject arises from the release in April of a new Italian decree about the road safety system for motorcyclists. The decree follows the EU regulation CEN/TS 17342:2019 and describes the technical specifications to reduce the impact severity of motorcyclists' collisions with safety barriers.

Vertex Pistons of Italy (VP Italia) scored a first and second in the 85 cc 2019 European Motocross Championship Class, winning with young Latvian Edvards Bidzāns (first, Husqvarna) and Valerio Lata (second, Marchetti Racing, KTM) at Loket in Czechia, July 27-28.

BMW Motorrad was able to increase deliveries of its motorcycles and maxi-scooters in the second quarter of 2019 to 54,582 units (2018: 51,117 units; +6.8%), resulting in a corresponding increase in revenues to € 727 million (2018: € 658 million; +10.5%). Six-month deliveries rose to 93,188 units (2018: 86,975; +7.1%). Segment revenues amounted to € 1,313 million (2018: € 1,182 million; +11.1%). EBIT increased to € 191 million (2018: € 175 million; +9.1%), resulting in an EBIT margin of 14.5% (2018: 14.8%).

After three years in Berlin and a 'Road Trip' in 2018, BMW's Pure&Crafted Festival is moving from Berlin to the Taets Art and Event Park at Amsterdam for three days from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 September - three days of beer, bikes, bands, food and culture.

 

Italian exhaust brand LeoVince is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year - "innovative research has always been at the heart of everything that LeoVince stands for. We started on the streets, but soon ended up on the racetrack, looking for innovative materials and construction techniques. The art of manufacturing exhaust systems for champions seeking maximum performance has always been our school - bringing those same exhausts to the road for today's bikers".

Indian conglomerate Mahindra's first new model in its Classic Legends Pvt Ltd BSA relaunch for the Indian market (initially?) is being branded as a BSA Gold Star. It will feature an engine made in Austria by BRP owned Rotax - an updated version of the 652 cc single as supplied to Aprilia for the 650 Pegaso and BMW F650 Funduro. This follows Mahindra's relaunch of the once massively popular in India Jawa brand in 2018.

Led by shops in Austria, Switzerland and Germany, calls are growing in Europe for the formation of an independent motorcycle dealer association. At present the only opportunities for dealers to organise are through their OE dealer groups. The mood music among over 100 dealers who attended the February meeting of the Austrian trade association's meeting was that up to a third of dealers could be facing threats to their existence.

Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MNW

Galfer

Cooking the Press

Granollers, Barcelona based brake components specialist Galfer hosted several of Europe's leading journalists for a two-day factory visit in June.
Press representatives from five different countries got to see the advanced manufacturing, expensive R&D and exhaustive quality control procedures that are behind every Galfer brake pad, disc and hose.

Galfer demonstrated its semi-metallic and sintered metal brake pad manufacturing technologies as well as its 'Disc Wave' precision laser-cutting operation, live dynamometer brake testing with brake discs reaching a maximum temperature of up to 680 degrees C.

The heat continued the following day when, on bikes loaned by KTM España, Galfer's guests enjoyed a 150 km brake test and demonstration ride through the Montseny Massif, which rises up to 1,700 m above sea level between Barcelona and Girona - just as most of western Europe baked in record heat with temperatures on the ride of up to 42 degrees C!
www.galfermoto.com

Barkbusters

Adventure model-specific hardware kits

Barkbusters, the leading motorcycle handguard specialist, has added further to its line-up of model- specific mounting kits for more of the year's best-selling adventure bikes.
Following the addition of a kit for the 2019 Yamaha Tenere 700, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 (2019 and up), Barkbusters has added kits for the 2019 Honda CB500X, the BMW R1250GS (2018) and R1250GSA (2019), and the well received 2019 Moto Guzzi V85TT.

Two mounting points secure the full wrap-around aluminium design, with a heat-treated aluminium backbone adding strength and impact protection.
The kit is compatible with their JET, VPS, Storm and Carbon handguards (each sold separately), so there are Barkbusters protection options available to suit many of the best-selling current adventure models.

The company is well known for a range of leading handguard designs and safety solutions, including their state-of-the-art, aerodynamically designed AERO-GP lever guards - "conceived with safety in mind, but created to be beautiful when fitted to your machine," says Robert Veljanoski, Barkbusters' General Manager. The AERO-GP is compatible with most makes and models, including fully faired sportsbikes, tourers and scooters.
Established in 1984, Barkbusters handguards are manufactured in Australia by Rideworx Pty Ltd. and available through distributors worldwide.

RIDEWORX
www.barkbusters.net

TENERE700 with BHG-078 hardware.JPG: Barkbusters handguard kit for the Tenere 700 - destined to become one of the best-selling adventure models in 2019.

Twin Air

Twin Air 2019 CRF450X/L applications

Veghel, Netherlands based filter manufacturer Twin Air has added applications for Honda's two new 2019 CRF450X and CRF450L models, as a results of Honda's completely new airbox design.
Twin Air is offering original replacement air filters, a complete PowerFlow kit that includes an aluminium cage and 44 mm universal bolt, an airbox cover and radiator sleeves.

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 its 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 - over 300 World Champions have been supported by Twin Air since 1972".
Effective, durable, washable and reusable, Twin Air foam filters are "available for all motocross and ATV vehicles and distributed worldwide, OEM-specified for 20+ motorcycle companies, and are 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 design and technology is based on recognition of the two quite different and often competing characteristics needed from a motocross air filter - high air flow and maximum particulate restriction.

"By doubling-up on the filtration process with a fused dual-layer design that has become the go-to standard air filter architecture, the fused layers of open-pore foam and fine inner foam layer trap even the smallest particles. The rounded 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," says Pieter Does, General Manager.
"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 'secret sauce' ingredients is the quality of foam we specify - one 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. This is a huge advantage to the engineers and to professional as well as amateur racers and means that our filters are truly fully washable and durable - the structure is stable and uniform. Reusing 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".

TWIN AIR
www.twinair.com

Rapid Bike

Rapid Bike adds tuning applications

Italian performance specialist Rapid Bike (part of Dimsport Group) has been rolling out a range of new applications for some of the most popular motorcycle models, with more additions scheduled for later in the year.
For the 2019 Moto Guzzi V85 TT 2019, Rapid Bike has a model-specific version of its fuel injection and ignition remapping technology available, with either the EVO or RACING add-on fuel injection tuning modules.

Multistrada 950 in stock configuration with Rapid Bike RACING kit for
fuel injection and ignition remapping

Said to "secure a more agile riding style, even in challenging driving conditions, for the new Moto Guzzi we can also offer our EASY2 stock lambda signal modulator to improve air/fuel ratio and throttle response at lower and medium rpm," says Business Development Manager and motorcycle product specialist Maurizio Bellucci.
For the 2017-19 Benelli TRK 502 and Leoncino, Maurizio says "we can give riders consistent performance improvements throughout the entire power curve, coupled with the benefit of extended 900 rpm and full management of both lambda sensors.
"We have the same option of rpm extension available for Kawasaki 2019 Versys 1000 four-cylinder engines, delivering stronger and smoother torque with the installation of the Rapid Bike EVO and RACING kits. Also, for the 2017-19 BMW GS 310 we can give riders an additional 600 rpm using the EVO fuelling kit, while for the bike in stock configuration the entry level EASY2 kit can be a valuable solution for performing tuning operations without any need for additional software requirements. 

"Interestingly, we have found that the Ducati 2018-19 Scrambler 1100 and Multistrada 950 are extremely sensitive to fuel injection remapping and recalibration of the air/fuel ratio, with a particular attention to the critical closed loop area.
"These remarkable results are further enhanced thanks to the exclusive fuelling values adjustment feature that is specific for each cylinder and  performed while riding the bike – this is the perfect solution shared by all EVO and RACING kits - the ability to reach optimal fuel injection mapping in every riding situation, while also responding to and calibrating for specific climate conditions and any further changes to the stock bike such as the installation of an aftermarket open exhaust and high flow air filters.
"Multistrada 950 owners can also add the benefit of Rapid Bike up/down shifter assist and truly enjoy a 'new' bike". The dyno test results seen here refer to a Multistrada 950 in stock configuration with a Rapid Bike RACING kit for fuel injection and ignition remapping.
Rapid Bike EVO complete kits are delivered with a pre-loaded fuel injection map, while the RACING kit includes injection and ignition maps; complete and updated application lists can be reviewed on the company's website.

RAPID BIKE/DIMSPORT
www.rapidbike.it

Polisport

Polisport make-over additions

Polisport has released a new restyling kit for the YZ that includes a YZF number plate and front fender to bring the look of the more modern 4-stroke bikes to the YZ.

The kit (seen here) is available in OEM colour, white or black and will include the airbox. The kit allows restyling of the older YZs from '02-'14 and from 2014 onwards.
Also new from Polisport are MX kits with exclusive vintage colours for the Yamaha YZ450F ('18-'19) and YZ250F (2019) and KTM SX/SX-F/XC/XC-F ('19-'20) models. 
The YZF has a complete Vintage Yellow kit recalling the old Yamaha models. For KTM models there is a Penton Edition with two different kits with different colourways.
Finally, new headlight mask kits for KTM and Husqvarna are available as a spare part and as a part of Polisport's model year-specific Enduro kits. These parts and kits will also be available in FLO yellow and Nardo Grey special colours.

POLISPORT
www.polisport.com

Kappa

'Oregon' jet helmet

The KV37 'Oregon' jet helmet by Kappa comes in three versions, 11 colours and multiple graphic designs, aimed to appeal to a wide riding audience who prefer "colour blocking" and unusual graphics.
Features include a thermoplastic, neatly hugging, lightweight shell, an elongated anti-scratch, transparent visor, a smaller smoked inner sun visor and an upper wide air intake. The inner lining is made of hypoallergenic material, fully removable and washable, and the closure strap can be micro-adjusted.
The available versions are 'Oregon Basic' with timeless colours, with 'Oregon Zone' and 'Oregon Twist' featuring lively bold graphics. The unisex KV37 jet helmet comes in a wide size range.

KAPPA
www.kappamoto.com

Bihr Distribution

Bihr Distribution establishes German subsidiary with exclusive Arai, Bell Helmets, Answer and RST apparel contracts; expands into other markets

Bartenheim, France based distributor Bihr Distribution has announced an expansion of its distribution activities into new markets and extensions, some of them exclusive, to major distribution partnerships.

The headline news is of exclusive deals to sell Arai helmets, Bell helmets and the British owned and designed RST riding apparel line in Germany and the establishment of a new German subsidiary (Bihr GmbH) to provide customer service to German dealers, with logistics being handled out of the company's international distribution centre in north east France, near the Swiss and German borders.

Bihr CEO Christophe Piron

The deal with Arai starts in September 2019 and is an exclusive one for Germany. It is an extension of Bihr's existing relationship with the famous Japanese helmet brand - a relationship that sees Bihr already handling Arai dealer sales in France and Belgium.
Michio Arai, grandson of founder Hirotake Arai and current CEO of Arai Helmets Ltd., said: "We are very pleased to have found an agreement with Bihr to distribute our helmets in Germany. The Bihr team has clearly demonstrated their ability to distribute our products in France and Belgium, and we are more than happy to expand our collaboration to Germany."
For Bihr, CEO Christophe Piron, who took over at Bihr in March this year, said: "We are very honoured to have the opportunity to distribute Arai products in Germany. Arai has a fantastic range of products with a safety reputation second to none. Our partnership with Arai in France and Belgium has been extremely successful and we are thrilled to expand it into Germany."

The Arai story is the stuff of legends, with Hirotake Arai starting out as a hatmaker in 1926 and then starting to make motorcycle safety helmets in 1950.
Bell helmets are an equally storied brand, having been started by Roy Richter in the garage of a southern Californian Speed Shop in 1954. Bihr's deal with Bell sees them becoming the exclusive distributor for Germany and Austria and takes the number of European markets in which Bihr represents Bell to 12, including France and Spain.
Christophe Piron commented: "We are very excited about starting the distribution of Bell products in Germany and Austria. Bell is a strong, charismatic brand with a unique promise and an unparalleled legacy. From the start of our partnership with Bell in 2016 we have been investing heavily in the development of the brand in our territory. I am thrilled to be celebrating our success in the past three years with the addition of two more important new markets."

Kasper L. Kreiler, Director of EMEA Sales & Business Development of Bell Helmets, is quoted as saying: "We are very pleased to have found an agreement with Bihr to distribute our helmets in Germany and Austria. The Bihr team has clearly demonstrated their ability to distribute our products and to live up to Bell brand values in other European countries, and we are more than happy to extend our working relationship with Bihr."
In addition to Arai and Bell, Bihr's new German subsidiary will be selling the British RST apparel brand and the American (Tucker Powersports/MAG) Answer off-road apparel and riding gear range to dealers in Germany.
In Austria Bihr is also now selling its full ranges of apparel and accessories and is additionally opening up full product range distribution to the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia. 

Christophe Piron went on to say that "we are very pleased to be opening our new offices in Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia. We can accelerate our current growth with an expansion of our geographical presence, which is an important measure to provide our customers and vendors with an even better service".
Founded in 1975 by industry legend Cyrille Bihr, Bihr Distribution is part of the 2 billion Euro turnover Kontich/Antwerp based Alcopa Group that traces its origins in the automotive and motorcycle business back to 1937 when Albert and Constance Moorkens started their motorcycle distribution business.
Bihr has over 40,000 sq m of distribution space in total in France and Spain, is now active in 15 European countries, employing 400 people and selling some 300 brands and 200,000 items to up to 14,000 active dealer accounts. Bihr says it can supply almost all European motorcycle dealers within 24 hours.

New Briefs

  
KTM Industries AG announced unit sales in the 1st half 2019 up +7% compared to the previous year. In the first half of 2019, KTM sold approximately 136,000 vehicles worldwide under the KTM and Husqvarna Motorcycles brands. The increase is said to be due to the ongoing growth of the European motorcycle market (total industry sales are more than +10% for the first six months of 2019 in Europe) and strong sales growth in India (+30%).

Ducati owner Volkswagen (VAG) has signed an as yet unspecified cooperation agreement with Chinese made electric scooter maker Niu. Founded in 2015 with what quickly became China's most successful crowdfunding campaign, and one of the 10 most successful at the time, Niu is NASDAQ listed and with importer KSR Group has more than 400 dealers (with workshops) in Germany, Austria and Switzerland alone.

In USA the MIC lobby efforts against Trump administration tariffs appear to have fallen on deaf ears. As of September 1st, the US will apply a 10% tariff to an additional $300bn of Chinese goods. The list (China List 4) includes safety headgear, safety clothing, rain gear, speakers, motorcycle covers, parts, accessories and motorcycles in the 50-800 cc range. This new levy is in addition to the 25% already applied to List 4 items.
 

After 30 years of discovering the beauty of Africa and a decade of adventure exploring the spectacular landscape of South America, 2020 sees the Dakar Rally making its debut in the Middle East, in Saudi Arabia, from January 5 to 17.

 

Italian suspension specialist Bitubo has appointed well known Dayton, Ohio performance parts specialist Brock's Performance as a distributor of its shock absorber, front end and 'Digi-Shox' electronic suspension system product lines for race, street, sports and cruiser applications in the United States.

Eicher Motors Ltd (EML) of India, owner of Royal Enfield, has announced Vinod K. Dasari as the CEO of RE with a seat on the EML board. Dasari takes over from Siddhartha Lal, who was named CEO of Royal Enfield in 2001. Lal will continue as Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd. At Royal Enfield, Siddhartha, who has masterminded its entry into the 650 twins market in Europe and USA, will continue to support Vinod and the team in RE product and brand related areas. Dasari has served time at Ashok Leyland, Cummins India, Timken and General Electric and has also served as the President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

German motorcycle registrations

Germany: motorcycles +5.17% Jan-June

The latest data from the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany, shows motorcycle registrations down by -10.28 percent in June (11,518 units), having been -1.38 percent in May (13,660 units). 

For the YTD (the first six months of 2019) the German motorcycle market was +5.17 percent (75,237 units in total), which in spite of the soft May and June registrations, is still the best German motorcycle market first half year performance since before 2009.
In total PTW terms June was -5.88 percent (17,324 units), having been +2.13 percent in May (19,801 units), making the YTD +8.25 percent at 105,080 new PTW units registered in total.
The top selling model YTD remains the BMW R 1250 GS (7,035 units), way ahead of the Yamaha MT-07 in second place (2,349 units), the Kawasaki Z900 (2,052), Z650 (1,820) and the Honda 'Africa Twin' in fifth place (1,409) and the KTM 790 Duke in 6th (1,361 units YTD).
With seven models among the top 30 best sellers, it is no surprise that BMW has stretched its German market dominance still further having sold 17,820 units in total YTD for a commanding 23.69 percent market share (and up 14.14% on last year's sales).
Kawasaki was second with 8,737 units sold for an 11.61% market share; Honda was third with 8,531 units sold (11.34% share);  KTM fourth (8,346 units sold, 11.09% share); Yamaha fifth (7,347 units sold, 9.77% share) and Harley-Davidson sixth (6,533 units, 8.68% share).
Suzuki was in 7th place, followed by Ducati, Triumph, Husqvarna, Aprilia, Royal Enfield, Moto Guzzi and Indian Motorcycle in 14th.
Total motorcycle registrations for the full year 2018 in Germany were +7.35 percent on 2017 (108,296 units), with total PTW registrations +10.98 percent (155,184 units).

Silkolene

Silkolene One Shot range has counter appeal

World famous oil brand FUCHS Silkolene says it has given motorcycle retailers and dealers a boost with the introduction of its new One Shot range.
The small 100 ml One Shots are the latest addition to the Silkolene maintenance family and designed to "offer added protection and boost engine performance. The One Shot products can either be simply added into the fuel tank or added to the engine oil prior to a scheduled oil change," says Sally Travis, Marketing Manager at FUCHS Silkolene.
"They have been designed to stand either on the counter or on vibrant Silkolene product stands, giving dealers the chance to increase sales and profits." The range includes PRO FST, Engine Flush and Octane Booster.
"This new range complements our current 'Maintain' range and offers dealers the chance to secure brand new sales from existing customers. The products come in 100 ml brushed metal tins, using the designated blue 'Maintain' range colours. They clearly display the famous Silkolene brand name and product information on the front label and are competitively priced as an 'added value' impulse buy, either at the counter or as a customer browses the shop floor."
To celebrate the launch, FUCHS Silkolene UK is offering UK-based dealers the chance to buy one case of Engine Flush and one case of Octane Booster and receive one case of Pro FST and optional countertop P.O.S. free of charge.
www.silkolene.com

LighTech

High-tech licence plate options

One of the first products riders consider changing after the purchase of a new or used motorcycle is the licence plate holder, and Italian parts and accessory specialist LighTech offers a huge range of model-specific options.

Each is offered in a choice of two versions - an OE replacement and a kit that additionally includes a replacement homologated plate light and retroreflector.
Made from a compound of a special PA12 polymer mixed with carbon fibre to make the support very light, very resistant to vibrations, durable and aesthetically attractive.
LighTech has also introduced an upgrade consisting of practical adjustable supports for turn signals and the retroreflector. The company has a wide choice of spare parts and accessories available designed to customise the licence plate holders. Kit options include coloured special 'Ergal' bolts (7075 zinc alloy aluminium) or coloured licence plate lights in red, white and blue (black is supplied as standard with the LighTech kit).

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

Wind Trading

W2 'DZF' touring boots

Italian boot specialist Wind Trading has introduced these 'DZF' (Double Zipper Fitting) all-weather touring boots to the W2 range. They are made of microfibre leather with a rainproof breathable membrane lining and are closed by a double zipper system for optimal fit and comfort.
Other features include double density rubber outsoles, ankle protection and a replaceable anatomical footbed. They are available in black in sizes 37-47.
The W2 range of boots was launched in 2002, offering "a technical range of top-level boots from road racing to touring to off-road" which are tested and used by top riders around the world.

WIND TRADING SRL
www.w2boots.com

Andreani Group

Universal fork tube removal kit

Developed by the R&D team at Italian suspension specialist Andreani Group, this new fork inner tube removable tool for street and off-road forks is the latest addition to its range of specialty, precision-made wrenches and equipment available for professional technicians.

Described as a "practical and indispensable accessory" it is designed for simplified, easy and convenient fork tube removal without the risk of damage to the fork tube - "this is the tool that our technicians use all the time" according to the company.
Sold in a durable, practical case, the kit contains the universal tool and a wide selection of adaptors in 35, 36, 37, 41, 43, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 and 50 mm diameters.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com

GIVI

B32 BOLD top case and S903A smartphone support

GIVI has introduced the B32 BOLD top case with a squared shape. The accessory range also includes two other models, the B34 and B330, with different dimensions and load capacity. 

B32 BOLD

The top case of the GIVI Monolock line is known for its flowing contours and a rounded design, but the shape of the B32 BOLD breaks this mould with a satin silver band. The 32 litre load capacity with a maximum load of 3 kg can accommodate a full-face helmet (405 x 303 x 433 mm L x H x D). Similar sized top cases, but with a more "traditional" design, are the B34 (34 litre capacity, 425 x 340 x 455 mm) and B330 (33 litre capacity, 436 x 314 x 440 mm) models, both available in the "Tech" version and customisable with covers in different shades.
All three new models include a rack and universal fitting kit, with an optional security lock.
GIVI has also designed the new S903A smartphone support (Smart Mount RC) to be directly attached to the rectangular shaped brake/clutch reservoir and says it is "highly appreciated by owners of maxi-scooters lacking rear mirrors on the handlebars such as the T-Max and the Burgman 650, as well as the Forza 125/300, and by many other motorcycle owners with difficult to adapt supports".

S903A smartphone support

The positioning flanking the bike avoids obscuring the instrument panel and makes it less vulnerable to knocks and bumps compared to installation on the rear mirror arm. Now motorcycles equipped with handlebar halves and rear mirrors positioned on the fairings can use this support if they have a rectangular oil reservoir cover.
It is made from aluminium, CNC-machined from solid, successively micro shot peened, polished, anodised and laser-branded. The grooves on the base act as both a weight saving feature and as slots to enable installation on the brake/clutch oil reservoir cover. There are three specific screw kits available and it allows a wide range of adjustment.

GIVI S.P.A.
www.givimoto.it

Yamaha Motor

Yamaha Motor - 2019 half year rise in European unit sales with 2020 R1/M on sales in Europe from September

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced that for the first half of the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019, consolidated net sales were 855.9 billion yen, an increase of +0.5% from the same period the previous year. The company experienced a -16.1% decrease in operating income of 13.2bn yen, while ordinary income fell -9.1% to 70.2bn yen and net income for the period attributable to parent company shareholders was down -8.4% to 52.2bn yen.

Although sales increased in the marine and financial services segments, falling sales in the "Land Mobility" sector (which is principally still motorcycles at this stage) and robotics businesses resulted in overall net sales remaining unchanged. Operating income increased in the marine products business, but decreased overall due to appreciation of the yen, a deterioration in the regional mix of motorcycles in emerging markets and decreased sales in the robotics business.
Net sales in the "Land Mobility" sector were 555.3bn yen (a decrease of -2.5bn yen or -0.4% compared with the same period the previous fiscal year), and operating income was 21.1bn yen (a decrease of -6.3bn yen or -22.9%).
In developed markets, motorcycle business sales decreased due to yen appreciation against the euro, but operating income was at the same level as the previous fiscal year thanks to increased unit sales in Europe. In the emerging markets, motorcycle business unit sales increased and product mix improvements progressed in Indonesia, the Philippines, Brazil, Thailand, etc., but unit sales decreased in Vietnam, Taiwan, Argentina, India, etc., resulting in decreased sales and income overall.

The new 2020 Euro 5 compliant YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M (seen here) are expected to be on sale in Europe from September 2019. The liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve in-line 4-cylinder 998 cm3 engines (with crossplane crankshaft) are said to feature "further advanced and enhanced track performance" based on Yamaha's “Full Control Evolution for the Master of the Racetrack” concept.

The increase in unit sales of all-terrain vehicles and recreational off-highway vehicles in North America led to increased sales and reduced losses.
In electrically power-assisted bicycles, sales and income increased as a result of healthy sales of E-kits for Europe and child carrier models in Japan. As a result, there was an overall decrease in sales and lower income in the Land Mobility Business.
For 2019 as a whole, Yamaha Motor forecasts a -1.8% decrease in net sales to 1,670.0bn yen, with operating income expected to fall 6.0% to 125.0bn yen (below the original forecast) due to sluggish sales resulting from U.S. - China trade friction, reduced sales in Vietnam and deterioration of the motorcycle model mix in Taiwan.

TecMate

Four-bank chargers - "Keeping batteries fresh and ready"

Co-branded by Drag Specialties, Moose, Honda and Triumph, the OptiMate 3 is described as TecMate's most trusted charger in powersport.
"This charger has saved many thousands, if not millions, of batteries over the years with its unique save mode that brings a sulphated battery back from as low as 2 volts and its unique 24-7 long-term maintenance programme that keeps that saved battery ready to fire up the engine of the powersport vehicle it is in."
This same charger is available as a dual bank (OptiMate 3 x 2) and four-bank (OptiMate 3 x 4), ideal for dealers and workshops, and a fact that American Honda has recognised by approving the OptiMate 3 x 4 for new battery preparation. 

OptiMate Lithium 4s 0.8A four-bank

Ideal for 12V AGM, GEL and STD lead-acid batteries, the seven-step programme on the 3 x 4 can save dead flat 12V batteries from as low as 2 volts or automatically bring a new battery to full charge "within hours."
For high performance 12.8V/13.2V 4-series Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LFP/LiFe) batteries, the OptiMate Lithium 4s 0.8A x 4, derived from the highly regarded OptiMate Lithium 4s 0.8A, is globally recommended by Yamaha and Kawasaki. "Each station's nine-step programme can save a flat battery from as low as 0.5 volts or automatically bring a new battery to full charge - including batteries with a built-in sleep mode that needs waking before receiving charge.  
"Preparing or servicing batteries could not be easier with any of the OptiMate four-bank fully automatic battery chargers," says TecMate CEO Martin Human. "The integrated wall mounts allow for perfect positioning above the battery service area. The rest is easy.
"Simply connect the batteries and each charge bank's smart programme does the rest automatically, from activating a new battery for service or saving a flat battery a customer may have returned. 

OptiMate 3 four-bank

"Keeping new batteries fresh and ready for sale is a snap. The OptiMate 24-7 maintenance programme guarantees that each new battery leaves the dealership fully charged and healthy. With OptiMate four-station chargers, it is truly as simple as connect and forget, no more battery problems.
"OptiMate also keeps cost in check for the dealer. A lesser known fact is that all OptiMate battery chargers, including the four-bank models, can accept universal/global power rated between 100Vac to 240Vac. This universal input power conversion system is more efficient and reduces power usage, i.e. OptiMate uses less power than most to charge batteries right. 
"Lower cost to charge batteries, almost no batteries coming back, and those dead flat batteries that do are usually due to customer error, and even those can be fixed by OptiMate - now that's a win-win-win formula for any dealer if there ever was one," says Martin.

TECMATE
www.tecmate.com
www.optimate1.com

Hevik

'Typhoon' motorcycle vest

New from Italian apparel brand Hevik is the 'Typhoon' vest with an "urban flair".
Said to be "versatile and suitable for the summer season", the vest is a multi-pocketed garment made entirely of polyester, resistant and breathable with a wide micro-perforated mesh area at the front and over the majority of the back ensuring "that the rider's chest keeps cool and ventilated". The vest has a total of eight pockets, including an inner pocket and a wide rear pocket. The two frontal pockets have a flap and are waterproof, as is the rear pocket.
The "high-tech" nature of the vest is apparent in reflective inserts applied to the pocket flaps and the snap buttons on the neck and bottom hem, the latter allowing the garment to be adjusted for fit. The 'Typhoon' vest comes in black in sizes from S to 4XL.

HEVIK
www.hevik.com

Vertex Pistons / VP Italy

'Top-End' piston kit

Italian specialist VP Italy says its 'Top-End' piston kit has been further expanded to include "even off-road motorcycles, ATV and UTV, and is available for all 2019 models".
Developed by VP Italy to make the repairing process easier, saving time and money, the 'Top-End' kits "come with everything needed to replace the piston, top end gaskets and wrist pin bearing or chain".

For 2-stroke models the kits include a Replica or Race version piston, rings, wrist pin, circlips, top end gaskets "and even the wrist pin gasket bearing". The 4-stroke kits include a Replica or High Compression piston, rings, wrist pin, circlips, top end gaskets, wrist pin bearing "and a free cam chain".
VP says that "these kits have the advantage of including all the required parts to update and renew the thermal section of the engine at a very convenient cost. By purchasing the Top-End piston kit, you spend more than 10% less than if each component is purchased individually".

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

G.P.R. Italia

G.P.R. - more 'Sonic Revolutions' and 'Powercones'

More news this month from Italian exhaust specialist G.P.R. Italia's Mauro Orlandi about further additions to the company's "revolutionary" 'Sonic Revolution' product line, introduced earlier this year, and its 'Powercone' Evo 4 range.
"It's simple for a client to find an exhausts producer for the top selling models," Mauro says, "but it is much more difficult to find great systems, especially homologated systems, for higher value models that are produced and sold in lower volumes - most exhaust manufacturers just can't make a return on their tooling and R&D investments without selling high numbers.
"However, here at G.P.R. we have a uniquely efficient and modular production process, which means we can make high or low volume equally as easily. Our production processes include handcrafting and hand finishing of exhausts, which is ideal for lower volume production runs."

'Sonic Revolution' for Moto Guzzi V85TT

The new Euro 4 'Sonic Revolution' addition is for the Moto Guzzi V85TT - Moto Guzzi's versatile 850 cc all-terrain Enduro all-rounder - and its latest 'Powercone' Evo 4 is for the Vulcan 650 - Kawasaki's parallel twin cruiser. Both of which, in their very different ways, being models aimed at the fast growing middleweight market - the Millennial 'sweet spot'.
In both cases these new options are available either as slip-ons or with the G.P.R. racing header with 'decat pipe' to eliminate the catalyst and maximise weight saving and power.
The 'Sonic Revolution' range is a race-bred, track-tested design intended primarily for Enduro, Naked and Sport scooter road use. "It is an extremely innovative design," says Mauro, "with high quality materials such as Ergal (high strength, light weight, durable and ductile 7075 zinc alloy aluminium) for the magnificent end cap, producing an exhaust that is a lot lighter than the OEM fitments it replaces.

Latest 'Powercone' Evo 4 for Vulcan 650

"The external body is titanium, with a titanium internal canister and mounting support band. The result is an extremely light exhaust with a personality all of its own - the 'Sonic Revolution' looks as great as it sounds and performs".
The 'Sonic Revolution' range made its debut earlier this year with fitments for the BMW R 1250 GS, R 1200 GS, F 850 GS, F 750 GS, F 800 R and Yamaha T-Max, and more fitments will be added regularly throughout the rest of 2019.
Other additions to the homologated 'Powercone' line earlier this year included the KTM 790 Duke and Adventure and the BMW F 750/850 GS variants. The 'Powercone' line features a muffler protection grill that is fixed with anti-tampering screws - meaning the db Killer is removable only through manipulation of the exhaust. As a range, G.P.R. 'Powercones' are noted for weight savings of anything up to -50% and, with the 'decat pipe' installed, power gains that make the most of the +5% permitted by the regulations.

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

Motoplastic

Hi-Tech retro vintage homologated mirrors

With Marc Marquez and Jorge Lorenzo continuing to deliver great return on investment for their HRC team sponsorship, leading Spanish parts and accessory manufacturer Motoplastic has added more options to its popular Puig Hi-Tech Parts programme.

'Retro'

Seen here are two new retro-vintage style rear view mirror options that combine convincing styling with high quality materials and precision machining.
Taking its styling cues from classic mid-twentieth century aircraft design values, the new round back 'Retro' captures the elegance of streamlining with the kind of functionality, quality and safety that the Granollers, Barcelona based manufacturer is known for worldwide.
Targeting the current sweet spot of consumer taste, Puig has successfully combined the aerodynamics for which they are known with a durable, highly resistant anodised finish (in black or silver) and a fully position and height-adjustable CNC machined design in lightweight, high strength aluminium with a 94 mm anti-glare homologated mirror.

'Grand Tracker'

Also seen here, and dialling into another popular retro-vintage look, the 'Grand Tracker' does as its name suggests and raids the classic styling of vintage motorcycle racers for its design values.
Fully adjustable, CNC machined and finished with a high-grade anodising process (in aluminium or black finish), both styles are suitable for 13-18 mm inner diameter handlebars (adaptable to other diameters), with the 'Grand Tracker' featuring a 97 mm homologated anti-glare mirror.

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

Rainers

Rainers add jackets and gloves

Rainers Sports in Spain has added three new products - the 'Misano' men's jacket, the 'Georgia' ladies' jacket for summer riding, and the 'Omega' gloves.

'Misano'

The 'Misano' and 'Georgia' jacket are made from 500 D polyester and feature a removable waterproof lining, have CE protectors and reflective inserts at the back and front. 'Misano' is available in four colourways: black with small fluo details, black and fluo, all black and grey/black; 'Georgia' is available in black and pink.

'Georgia'

The 'Omega' gloves are made from goat's leather, have TPU and carbon knuckle protectors, elastic panels on the fingers, leather reinforcement on the palm and Velcro fastening.

'Omega'

The company is looking for further European distributors in certain countries.

RAINERS SPORTS
www.rainers-sports.com

Siebenrock

'Classic' Muffler for BMW

German aftermarket BMW parts specialist Siebenrock is offering these 'Classic' muffler series options that are said to "radiate nostalgia even when stationary".

Made in chrome plated steel, they are said to bring "release of the sonorous cycles of the two cylinders into the modern era" and are EU emissions and sound compliant with an ABE compliance certificate included, along with all necessary retaining plates, clamps and screw connections.
Delivered as a set, they are available for all BMW /6 and /7 models with 38 mm; BMW /7 models with 40 mm, and fit BMW R 45 and R 65 models from 1978 up to1985.

SIEBENROCK
www.siebenrock.com

Spanish motorcycle registrations

Spain: motorcycles +12.26 % YTD

The latest data from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, shows motorcycle registrations +17.28 percent for July (20,431). This is the strongest July market performance in Spain since before 2009, having been +6.07 percent in June (18,627 units) and +3.17 percent in May (17,620 units). 

For the first seven months of 2019, Spanish new motorcycle registrations were +12.26 percent at 108,472 units - also the best since before 2009.
The moped market in Spain appears to be recovering (+31.76 percent, 11,061 units YTD), and in total PTW terms the YTD in Spain was +13.82 percent (119,533 units registered in total - also the best first seven months in Spain since before 2009).
Honda remains market share leader in Spain so far this year selling 22,778 total units YTD for a 21.0 percent market share. Yamaha was second (15,651 units/14.4%); Kymco third, followed by Piaggio fourth and BMW fifth.
The electric bike sector grew by +242 percent in July, taking 7.8 percent of registrations in July, with the Silence S02 selling 885 units in July and 2,494 units YTD 2019. Some 5.4 percent of motorcycle sales in the first seven months of the year have been electric motorcycles.