Tucano Urbano

T.ur versatile three-layer system J-ONE jacket with D3O LP2 PRO armour

Italian Scooter and Urban Riding accessory, gear and apparel specialist Tucano Urbano launched a new touring accessories and G&A brand at EICMA in 2018 - T.ur, "designed for the most demanding riders. Born from the experience that Tucano Urbano has built up over twenty years, T.ur offers a complete range of highly specific products for touring, characterised by high-quality materials, thermal comfort, advanced ergonomics and CE certification".

The J-ONE jacket is the flagship product of the T.ur line-up with a three-layer modular system made up of a detachable, thermal inner jacket, the main outer jacket, plus a 100% waterproof layer. The detachable, thermal inner jacket is made with Thermore classic padding with a fine fibre structure. Made with recycled fibres from PET bottles, the inner thermal padding is non-allergic, non-toxic and stays compact. The outer shell is a breathable windbreaker in four-way stretch fabric in black, which doubles as a standalone casual jacket with a padded polyamide back panel and inner sleeve, plus T.ur branding.
The main jacket provides contemporary protection from abrasion, impact and heat control  features and state-of-the-art materials and technology. It features new D3O LP2 PRO armour, "certified to the highest level of impact protection, it gives 40% more protection than the CE Level 2 standard". It has D3O shoulder and elbow armour, with an Aero 3D mesh pocket to add back protection, and pockets for chest protection.

The jacket is made from two highly resistant Cordura fabrics - the body and inner sleeve is in a micro-weave Cordura for lightness and fit, whilst the sleeve outer is in Cordura Oxford 600. It has a polyester mesh lining and a soft neoprene edge on the collar, as well as adjusters on the biceps, forearm, cuffs and waist for optimal fit. It has many ventilation options, with zip openings on the front, sleeves and hem. The back can also be unzipped and folded down to reveal a large ventilation panel.
It has reliable and sturdy YKK zips, fine adjustment on the collar with an anti-flap hook, tape across the shoulders with loops to securely fix an action camera, plus built-in pockets for a hydration pack with a value discharge system. There are a number of internal and external pockets, including a low, watertight front pocket, an easy-access cargo pocket with a magnet and Velcro, plus a large, anti-condensation and waterproof pocket on the back where the rainproof layer can be stored. Light-reflecting panels are incorporated into the jacket design for high visibility from any angle.
Stored in the main jacket’s back pocket is an ultra-compact rainproof outer jacket, made with Tucano Urbano’s patented Hydroscud system, a breathable, waterproof and windproof polyamide fabric with taped seams and a high water column. The jacket is rain tower tested with a storm trip on central zip and collar to ensure 100% waterproofness.
Additional items in the T.ur line-up that feature the three-layer modular system include the matching, connectable P-ONE trousers, and the J-TWO jacket.

TUCANO URBANO
www.tucanourbano.com
www.t-ur.com

Ferodo and Champion

Ferodo and Champion scoop Enduro World Championship successes

Ferodo will be celebrating another year of race success at EICMA this year, with Brad Freeman (Costa Ligure Boano Team) having won the Enduro GP and Enduro 1 World Championships (and the Italian Championship) using technical partner Ferodo's brake pads and sister company Champion's spark plugs and oil filters.

With Matteo Pavoni taking second place in the youth series and first place in the Italian 125 cc Youth championship, Deny Philippaerts crowned Italian Champion 300 cc, and Beta Boano scooping the Enduro GP and Enduro 1 Manufacturer's Team World Championship, it was a pretty impressive year for the Ferodo backed racers.
A superbly well organised and well attended final round at the end of season French Enduro GP, with good crowds and competitive racing throughout the series, and with the backing of performance parts manufacturers such as Ferodo and Champion, the future is looking bright again for the Enduro class.
It has also been a busy year for Ferodo off the track, with more than 500 brake pad applications updated for 2019 models. The Ferodo brand objective is to deliver a "Balanced Braking Performance" – a four-stage concept that calibrates the initial bite, the resulting deceleration, the modulation (feel and control) that the rider has going into a corner under braking, and the point at which the brake can be released after the apex of a corner. 

"A track-derived concept that is just as valid when testing a street bike pad," says International Sales Manager John Davies. "Our requirements for a high-performance friction material are based on a braking cycle with three main phases - the bite, the deceleration and the feel - the objective always being to allow the rider to achieve consistent braking and feel regardless of the operating conditions."
The result is a 'Good', 'Better' and 'Best' programme, with distributors and their dealers able to select from an organic 'Carbon Grip' compound line for motorcycles and scooters (carbon steel composites manufactured using a unique, proprietary process) and an OE replacement 'Sinter Grip' powder metallurgy based line (pressed metal powders are fused together at extreme temperatures).
At the top of the range are the company's race-proven, race-only 'Ceramic Grip' compounds – "pads that place a premium on maximum possible caliper temperature reduction and class-leading modulation for the kind of feel and control that can make all the difference on the racetrack".
www.ferodoracing.com

W2 Boots by Wind Trading

W2 'Cruiser' boots

Italian W2 Boots by Wind Trading is adding significantly to its collection for 2020. Seen here, its new offer will include a range of 'Cruiser' boots made in genuine leather for all-weather riding, with a rainproof and breathable membrane for all-day comfort, even in the worst of conditions. 

Intended for use on cruiser, custom and classic bikes, the boots are available in men's and women's specific sizes.
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

Omnia Racing

Jetprime advanced plug & play handlebar switches

Naples based distributor Omnia Racing is offering dealers access to the Modena, Italian designed, engineered and manufactured Jetprime range of performance accessories.
As seen here, Jetprime plug & play switches are "perfectly interchangeable with the original without making any changes to the bike. Just mount them and insert the specific connector for each motorcycle model - it is that easy, assembly is simple and takes a few minutes, making the bike immediately operational with the same functions as the original panel, for both the road version and racing versions".

The street version includes a key fob with basic functions such as turn signals, horn and high beam headlights. Each button control unit has been machined from a solid billet of 7075 aluminium and fitted with IP67 military standard switches to ensure everything is watertight and to guarantee use for more than 1,000,000 working cycles.
They are available in either a left-hand version (five or seven buttons) or a right-hand version (three buttons) for road or race use for all Aprilia, BMW, Ducati, Kawasaki, MV Agusta and Yamaha sportsbike models, as well as for selected Ducati road bike models (Monster, Hypermotard and Multistrada).

Based at Modena in the heart of Italy's 'Motor Valley', Jetprime was founded in 2002 by Marco Diazzi. With advanced R&D, manufacturing and testing all carried out in-house, since the start Jetprime has specialised in the development of special parts for racing and road motorcycles, "offering the market innovative products for electronic injection management and other components to improve the performance of all motorcycles and the best-selling scooter models".
Omnia Racing distributes selected parts and accessory products all over Europe (indeed, worldwide) and has the industry backing of an impressive portfolio of performance brands, including the likes of Bitubo, K-Tech, Zard, HP Corse, LeoVince, Accossato, Termignoni, Akrapovic, Brembo and Arrow Special Parts.

OMNIA RACING SPECIAL PARTS
www.omniaracing.com

GIVI

GIVI accessories for the Yamaha Niken

For this revolutionary Yamaha, Italian helmets to luggage to accessories specialist GIVI has created a set of accessories to "transform the standard model into a sports-tourer kitted out for riding with a passenger".
The design of the frame and the fairing of the Niken has enabled the company's R&D department to create holders for a three-case set and a tank bag. With the use of the SR2143 rear rack, any Monokey or Monolock case can be installed by using a matching series of plates. An alternative to the top case is to use the EX2M anodised aluminium plate, which acts "as an elegant base for small or large soft bags". For side bags, the "quick release" PLXR2143 has been created, which is specific for the futuristic V35 cases and the brand new V37 Monokey side cases.

The Niken can accommodate various styles of tank bags, however, the most useful are the Tanklock and/or TanklockED models. These are GIVI patented systems that "enable bags to be attached to the tank cap with a simple click".
Additional accessories include the D2144ST transparent screen, featuring an increased height (58 x 59 cm), installed with the specific D2143KIT mounting kit. On the Niken GT no specific mounting kit is required. A "fully reliable" ES2122 side stand in aluminium and stainless steel gives wider ground contact.

There are also numerous options to install the most commonly used communication and navigation devices on the instrument panel area with brackets, smartclips, kits and various other accessories. Additionally, the fluid reservoir cover situated on the right side of the instrument panel can be used as a support for mobile phones or sat navs, using the O2VKIT and Smart Mount RC S903A.

GIVI S.P.A.
www.givimoto.com

LighTech

Italian quality and design for the 2019 BMW S1000 RR

Noted for its high-quality materials, precision manufacturing and advanced, ergonomic design, Italian parts and components manufacturer LighTech has introduced a new and exclusive accessories line for the popular 2019 BMW S1000 RR.

"All parts have been made with the main aim of complementing and improving the performance of this bike, without giving up the aesthetic aspect of the products themselves - products that have been designed to be in perfect harmony with the bike's lines and styling".
As ever with LighTech, it is the rear set that is the flagship product. Equipped with its famous Track-system, a LighTech trademark that enables use with both the normal shift mode and reverse shift mode (especially appreciated for track use), it's available in three configurations - normal, with fixed footpegs; "W" version with fold-up footpegs and the "R" version with carbon heel guards, folding footpegs, high-quality bearings and titanium bolts.

All three models permit seven positionings - but simply by adding the LighTech "up & down" plates, riders have access to 28 different positions. LighTech also offers a wide range of parts and accessories to allow complete customisation of the rear set - such as carbon and aluminium heel guards (as shown here), coloured footpegs, footpeg holders, fold-up toe pegs and more.
In addition, LighTech also offers a model-specific chain adjuster, license plate holder, frame protection, carbon parts and a wide range of additional component fitments "to give dealers the opportunity to offer their S1000 RR owners a comprehensive and contemporary 'redesign' programme that combines great design with safety and durability".

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

Parts Europe

Z1R helmets now available at Parts Europe

Said to represent "high quality for a reasonable price", Parts Europe has further added to its offer with the American Z1R brand.
"With over 20 years of experience, Z1R is dedicated to creating products that fuel all type of riders - whether it’s riding off-road trails, blasting berms on a motocross track or just hitting the open road, Z1R focuses on design, safety, performance and value for each and every product they offer.
"The wide range of the Z1R collection includes various helmets for every kind of rider. For street riders the JACKAL helmet offers a comfortable fit at a high-performance level. The drop shield makes the helmet versatile in all lighting conditions and the chin vent design improves interior airflow and reduces shield fogging.

JACKAL

JACKAL AGRESSOR

"The ROAD MAX line makes scooter riders and custom bike fans happy - the closable top vent and rear exhaust vent allow an increased airflow. The ROAD MAX collection is also equipped with a drop-down sun visor, which is easily adjustable with the side helmet lever.

ROAD MAX

"The SOLARIS helmet comes in different classical colours and combines classic with modern - the dynamic shape of the JACKAL and the comfort of the ROAD MAX can be re-found in this new helmet. The SOLARIS is also the helmet for an all-weather rider, together with the available breath box, dual shield and electric shield, this is a year-round helmet. 

SOLARIS MODULAR

"These are just three of the many Z1R helmets that are available for 2020 - all of which meet DOT and ECE Helmet Safety Standards". 

PARTS EUROPE
www.partseurope.eu

Andreani

Universal suspension injector and comprehensive workshop suspension tools range

Italian suspension specialist Andreani has developed a series of "must have" suspension tools and machines for all kinds of motorcycle suspension.

Among the most recent tools are the universal fork tube removal kit that we featured in the last edition of IDN and the new universal suspension fluid injector seen here - a new tool for easy maintenance of oil levels in each fork.
The procedure is simple, fast and accurate. Set the desired oil level through the integrated graduated shaft, insert the empty injector into the outer tube, making sure it is centred, push the cylinder down to suck the fork oil and then take the injector out to throw the oil away.
In addition to these tools, the Andreani Group also offers professional workshop machines for testing the suspensions of motorcycles, cars and bikes - such as the DB4, the new generation and fully automated test bench, and their electronic spring tester, developed from the need to calculate accurate spring loads for shock absorbers and forks. 

Other workshop machines include the SP2 vacuum pump, which allows the technician to vacuum shock absorbers manually, using special hydraulic controls; the SP4, which allows the technician to vacuum and fill all shock absorbers automatically, controlling all processes using the display thanks to easy-to-use software.
At the top of the range, the SP5 is the "most innovative vacuum pump developed by the Andreani Group to make easier, more precise and more efficient filling and vacuuming of shock absorbers of any kind and brand with a fully automated process thanks to an easy-to-use and extremely efficient software and a user-friendly, intuitive graphical interface with touch screen display for real time process checking".

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com

LeoVince

LV One EVO Black Edition - for Yamaha models

Celebrating its 65th anniversary, Italian exhaust brand LeoVince has released a new version of its popular LV One slip-on muffler, the LV One EVO Black Edition, for a range of 2016/17/18 and 2019 Yamaha model applications, including the MT-09 SP and FZ-09, XSR 700/900, Tracer 700/900 variants, and select MT-07/FZ-07 models.

The new version features a "beautiful matt black finish, made using a ceramic painting technology that is extremely resistant to high temperatures.
"The new LV One Evo Black Edition in AISI 304 stainless steel is the synthesis between tradition and modernity. It combines the LeoVince classic style and looks with LeoVince signature and innovative high- performance materials research".

LeoVince chose full carbon for the muffler end cap, with an asymmetric ("slash") cut, to combine the performance and lightness of the carbon fibre without giving up its "Made in Italy" style. Additional features include high temperature resistant packing (1,650 °F), full carbon fastening strap and laser etched LeoVince logo.

LEOVINCE
leovince.com

Galfer

280 mm MX front brake kits

To meet the current trend of increasing front disc sizes on off-roaders, Spanish brake component manufacturer Galfer has released new race-developed oversized kits with 280 mm discs.

Available for all the main off-road motorcycle brands, Galfer says the new kit delivers "substantially improved braking performance, especially under extreme weather conditions or at higher speeds. So much so that the 280 mm oversized discs have been used in the last two seasons of the AMA Supercross Championship with great results - former Spanish motocross rider Javi García Vico used it recently on his Honda CRF 450."
The new RWSX front kits will include a fixed grooved 280 mm disc, a caliper spacer and a set of Galfer's new Sport Racing G1396R sintered brake pads. The kits are available for leading off-road models, including Honda CRF 250/450, Kawasaki KX 250/450 F, Yamaha YZ 125/250/450 F, Suzuki RMX 450 Z and for KTM/Husqvarna 125/250/450 SX (2011 and up).

INDUSTRIAS GALFER S.A.
www.galfer.eu

Barkbusters

Barkbusters 'Sabre' MX/Enduro handguards

Barkbusters of Australia, the noted, innovative and popular motorcycle handguard specialist, has announced the release of a new motorcycle handguard design - the 'Sabre', designed to offer the "ultimate in versatile off-road coverage".

Featuring upper and lower removable deflectors and fully customisable colourways, the sleek, lightweight design combines with sturdy alloy mounting clamps to offer a robust and functional handguard to fit a full range of off-road bike models.
Thin profile alloy clamps provide multiple mounting positions and easily attach to the handlebars without interfering with switch blocks or controls, "making the 'Sabre' an ideal choice for either motocross or enduro racers".
The removable upper and lower deflectors mean riders can tailor the level of coverage to suit any riding condition and protect from damage to their hands caused by flying roost and debris while still having ample room for fingers to reach levers and controls. "With a range of 15 colour variations available and replacement parts in all colours, the 'Sabre' is infinitely customisable to fit your individual style".
Each complete set of high impact resistant moulded plastic guards includes left/right guard, top and bottom deflectors as well as all mounting hardware. The mounting clamps are manufactured from high grade aluminium with adjustable fit in two side positions. The low profile guard provides a minimalist design with venting for increased airflow.

RIDEWORX
www.barkbusters.net

Mupo

CSP30 suspension cartridge with Through-Rod Technology

Italian suspension specialist Mupo has introduced a new front suspension cartridge - the CSP30 - that features "Through-Rod Technology".
Described as the result of over 10 years of development by its in-house R&D department, the CSP30 is a race cartridge that has been tested, among others, by Michele Pirro in the Italian SBK series ("which we won again this year for the fourth year in a row"), Alex Barros in Brazil and in other countries in a number of leading and demanding series and race environments.

Octavio Lucchini, Mupo's Director of International Sales and Marketing, told IDN: "So far the results and feedback have been fantastic - everyone who has tried the CSP30 has immediately changed over to it from whichever suspension cartridge they were using before, and the opinion of racers is that the CSP30 is the most advanced front suspension technology on the market."
At the heart of the CSP30 is the company's Through-Rod Technology, "an innovative system used by top teams in the most prestigious competitions worldwide. This technology is defined by the innovative way the piston rod operates - entering and exiting the body of the cartridge at the same time, avoiding gas pressure imbalances and limiting oil dilatation.

"The result is a homogeneous and extremely progressive damping, with outstanding front end grip and feel under braking and in the apex and exit phases of the corner. The performance of the CSP30 is quite simply the result of superior design - delivering much improved performance to the less responsive and slower dynamics that traditional open, closed and pressurised cartridges deliver.
"The compression and rebound damping are completely independent. This, together with the spring preload adjustment in both legs, makes finding the perfect set-up simple, fast and intuitive".

Founded in 1993, 100% of Mupo's production is carried out at its 650 sq m headquarters at Castel Guelfo di Bologna - in the heart of Italy's famed 'Motor Valley' - and is backed by the resources of the Roberto Nuti Group - a five-company industrial group founded in the early 1960s that specialises in the production of suspension products of all kinds - from industrial vehicles, such as trucks, trailers and buses, to motorcycles and scooters.
This gives Mupo access to a wide range of R&D, testing, manufacturing and quality control resources, and with five production sites worldwide and over 300 people employed in the group, Mupo can draw on the skills available in one of Europe's major engineering centres of excellence.

MUPO S.R.L
www.mupo.it

Comment by Editor, Robin Bradley

A stable and socially responsible market?

Last month I wrote about what appeared to be a softening of new motorcycle registrations in the second quarter of 2019 (ICE/Internal Combustion Engine only) based on the release by ACEM (the Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association) of their data for the first six months of 2019.
At the time of press, we were still some weeks away from seeing ACEM's data for the first nine months of 2019, the first three quarters (it will probably have been released by the time of EICMA), but the selection of national trade association data we are presenting in our StatZone section this month (pages 6 - 8) appears to confirm a continued softening of demand, despite the very good start we saw to 2019 in the first quarter.
Most of the StatZone data is for the period January to September (some is for the period to August), and with the Big Five (France, Italy, Germany, Spain and the UK) representing over 80% of the European total of PTW registrations, and the first six months of each year representing over half of annual registrations, the latest data does confirm that the early season forecasts made by many market analysts in response to quarter one statistics do indeed now look over-optimistic.



"work in progress"

In the case of IDN, and based on a more realistic analysis of market performance in 2016, 2017 and 2018 (+6.5%, +2.53% and +3.12% respectively), I was forecasting that, in fact, 2019 looked more likely to achieve around the +3% mark (give or take anything up to 2% either way) at best and that nobody should be fooled by what had been going on behind the official statistics, especially as a result of the 2016/2017 Euro 4 transition impacts.
The official ACEM data for 2018 points towards +9.89% growth; the official data for the first six months of 2019 pointed towards market growth of +8.67%. Neither is wrong as such, in terms of compilation of available data, but both are a false positive where underlying trends are concerned.
My calculations had suggested that regardless of the Euro 3/Euro 4 issues, and in which year certain units did or did not get registered, the Euro 3/Euro 4 issue was still casting a long shadow where trying to calculate reliable trend data was concerned.
My view is that all we could really rely upon for the period 2013 through 2018 was the simple fact that the market had recovered in the five years since its 2013 nadir by some +34.13 percent - 255,534 additional new units sold in the 52 months to December 2018 since growth appeared to start to return in the second half of 2013.
There is no question now that new motorcycle registrations have NOT maintained the apparent outstanding and contra-trend start to 2019 (quarter one data) and that the quarter two softening has continued in quarter three.
That is not to say that the market is in trouble as such, because at something in the region of +3% growth (+/-2%) we have a sustainable and stable market, and one that in the years leading up to 2014 we'd have happily embraced.
Given the macro-economic picture of declining global demand for consumer goods of all kinds, declining consumer confidence and increasing demographic impacts in terms of the boomers aging out and the Millennials and Centennials bringing a much more environmentally conscious and activist mindset to consumption, then hallelujah, under the circumstances, +3% is the new +10% where motorcycle market growth is concerned for this year!
Plus, it is consistent in a way that anything higher would not be. It appears to suggest a stable market - one that is growing steadily and consistently. That may not be sexy, but it certainly is a massively better sunlit upland than the valley of despair we plunged into from 2008 to 2013. To follow five years in which the market lost in the region of 500,000 registrations with five years in which it will have added some 250,000 to 300,000 unit sales by the end of 2019, and to have done so in the face of the issues we are currently faced with, is a huge achievement.
Far from suggesting that the hard work done by the manufacturers and trade associations to promote riding and develop forward facing platforms that come closer to meeting the ownership and experiential expectations of 'New Gen' consumers, the achievement speaks well to what the industry has achieved, speaks well to its response and speaks well of the prospects for being able to sustain sustainable if modest growth in the face of a range of issues that could be said to be stacked against us.
Look at it like this - do not compare where we are now and what the 2019 market might look like at the end of this year with what we had before, think about what it might look like now if the trade associations, manufacturers and their dealers had NOT started to take the initiatives they have. The great unknown is where we would be in 2019 had we NOT started to adapt and evolve, had we not started to address safety and had we not further enhanced PTW credentials as a transport solution and leisure option of choice.
Twenty years ago, motorcycles, and those who ride them, were widely regarded as being part of the problem and being a social menace. Now they are part of the solution and increasingly being seen as a socially and environmentally responsible expression of good citizenship. The motorcycle industry remains a 'work in progress', but at least there has been progress.

Polish new motorcycle registrations

Poland: new motorcycles +37.04% January - August

The latest data from the motorcycle industry trade association in Poland (PZPM) shows new motorcycle registrations at +43.52% for July 2019 (2,338 units) and +21.97% for August (1,771 units). Contrary to the slowdown being seen elsewhere in Europe, the figures show that the modest improvement of the new motorcycle market in Poland since the summer of 2018 appears to be sustaining.

For the YTD (January - August 2019), new motorcycle registrations were +37.04% at 15,640 units - the best since 2016 and third best since before 2006.
New moped sales are improving too, though comparisons with the early months of 2018 are unreliable due to the moped segment's 2017/2018 Euro 4 transition - YTD moped registrations in Poland are reported as +19.05% (15,500 units), putting total new PTWs in Poland at +27.45% YTD (31,140 units - the best since 2016).
However, new model registrations are only ever part of the story where the Polish market is concerned. Poland is an important market for pre-owned vehicles (from elsewhere in Europe) that are receiving their first domestic Polish registration; these machines provide valuable service, maintenance and PG&A income for Poland’s franchised and independent motorcycle shops and the vendors they buy from.
When these units are factored in, the total number of new and used motorcycles sold from January to August 2019 were +11.24% at 67,949 units (the best since before 2010) and total new and used PTWs were +11.87% (90,827 units YTD) - the best since 2016.
For the full year 2018 overall total new PTW registrations were -30.67 percent (30,971 units) for the year; new and used PTW registrations were -7.53 percent (101,158 units) - retaining Poland’s position as Europe’s 6th largest market.

FEMA

No plan for new motorcycles in Europe to have compulsory speed limiters

The Federation of European Motorcyclists' Associations (FEMA) has moved to counter rumours about the introduction of speed limiters on new motorcycles sold in Europe by getting the European Commission to issue a clarification to correct the widespread and erroneous reporting that has been seen online and in print on both sides of the Atlantic.
"After the news broke in April 2019 that 'Europe' wants overridable Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) for cars, we quickly noticed that a large part of the automotive and motorcycle press described the overridable Intelligent Speed Assistance as "speed limiters for cars and motorcycles". This is not correct," says Dolf Willigers, General Secretary of FEMA.

Ms Róża Thun, the member of the European Parliament who steered this legislation through the European Parliament, clearly stated: "We are not introducing a speed limiter, but an intelligent system that will make drivers fully aware when they are speeding", but some journalists have kept insisting that Europe was about to make speed limiters on bikes mandatory.
"To clarify this matter once and for all, FEMA wrote an official letter to Matthew Baldwin, the Deputy Director-General for Mobility and Transport and European coordinator for road safety and sustainable mobility. In our letter we voiced our concerns about possible ISA on motorcycles and we made the point that no technological developments regarding a possible improvement of road safety should be implemented without proper consultation of motorcyclists. 

"We stressed the fact that certainly a measure like ISA should not be implemented without first clearly establishing the need for introduction on motorcycles. In our letter we also invited the European Commission to confirm that the new regulations do not concern motorcycles and that a possible future regulation will not affect speed either by braking or by reducing engine power and will be tested to guarantee the safety of the motorcyclists."
In response, Baldwin stated: "You mention some information circulating in the media to the effect that Intelligent Speed Assistance will be required for motorcycles. This is certainly not true. As you are aware, motorcycles are not within the scope of the General Safety Regulation and the Pedestrian Safety Regulation.
"Even if the Commission were eventually to make a proposal making ISA systems mandatory for motorcycles, this would require an impact assessment and a cost-benefit analysis. This evaluation would take into account the specificities and needs of these vehicles and the paramount need for the safety of riders."

Twin Air

Husqvarna Factory Racing extends partnership with Twin Air

Husqvarna Factory Racing has announced the extension of its partnership with noted Dutch dirt bike filter manufacturer Twin Air. The agreement will see the majority of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna teams benefit from Twin Air high-performance air filters through to the end of the 2022 season. 

Founded in 1972, Twin Air was the first company to introduce the washable and reusable dual-foam laminated air filter. "Since then, the firm has been at the very forefront of off-road racing technology for almost 50 years. Continuing to evolve alongside advances in motorcycle design, Twin Air remains leader in the field of air filter innovation and quality". 

The extension of this technical partnership with Husqvarna Motorcycles will see the majority of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing teams in the US together with worldwide motocross, enduro and rally racing activities use Twin Air products to further enhance the performance of their racing machines.
Diego Clement, Motorsport Manager at Husqvarna Motorcycles, said: "We are excited to continue our working relationship with the Twin Air company. With their iconic name and history of innovation and success, Twin Air is among some of the most important names in off-road motorcycle racing.
"You only have to look at the results of the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Racing team to understand the importance of quality partnerships, and we believe Twin Air has been a positive factor in that success. We are pleased to continue our partnership with Twin Air and look forward to many more successful seasons together."
Pieter Does, Twin Air General Manager, said: "It is our honour to continue our long-term partnership and cooperation with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing for three more years. Our commitment is to provide the latest air filtration and performance products to all of the team's off-road racing activities. From World Championship MXGP racing to AMA Pro Motocross and SuperCross to AMA GNCC racing, the World Enduro Super Series and rally racing, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing bikes will rely on the legendary quality and performance of Twin Air products."
www.twinair.com

Parts Europe

ICON autumn 2019 catalogue - new VARIANT PRO helmet

Available through Wasserliesch/Trier, Germany based Parts Europe, the highlights from the new autumn 2019 ICON helmets, gear and apparel collection include a new VARIANT PRO helmet that became available in September.
ICON launches a new collection twice a year, and the company says that the new ICON VARIANT PRO helmet is in response to dealer demand. Designed at the ICON HQ at Portland, Oregon, it "is truly one of a kind with a wind tunnel tested modern shape, handcrafted composite shell, intermediate oval head form and refined anti-lift visor, low profile vents, quick-change fog-free shield, five-piece modular liner with moisture wicking Hydradry, integrated chin EPS air channels to reduce shield fogging and removable chin curtain.
"There is also a newly designed Airframe Pro called LUCKYLID 3, four new designs for the Airflite fresh up the line with graphics PLEASUREDOME 3, TRUMBULL, UNCLE DAVE and FREEDOM SPITTER, and two new graphics for the Airmada line called TL and LEGION.
"The new TARMAC2 redefines riding jackets with waterproof, breathable and comfortable 4-way stretch HYCOR material.

"For 'dragon-fighters' ICON created the OVERLORD SB2 SERPECANT jacket, which comes with an inner liner and some flex zones. The MALICE hoody is the perfect addition to the STRYKER vest or club cut - constructed of a soft fleece chassis with ripstop nylon overlays.
"ICON has always created fantastic gear especially for ladies. The new OVERLORD SB2 MANDALA jacket will be a must-have for female riders. It comes with pre-curved arms and integrated flex zones for more comfort and a quilted liner for warmth.
"The ICON 1000 is the retro-oriented line with modern technology inside. The new BRIGAND jacket is constructed of a durable Cordura denim chassis. The chest pockets have a magnetic closure and laser perforation to keep the air flowing on hot days. Internally the BRIGAND features a flannel liner for warmth. Additionally, the jacket includes a removable, waterproof liner".
All ICON jackets are equipped with a complete set of D30 protectors at the elbows, shoulders and back.
www.partseurope.eu
www.rideicon.com

Showa

GP Series A-Kit for KTM 450SX-F

Developed and proven in 2018 AMA Supercross/Motocross Championship and MXGP experience, Showa's A-Kit suspension technology features "cutting edge" Showa developed features such as its Dimplush surface finish and Emerald coating.
The Dimplush surface finish is a unique micro-geometric-patterned surface texturing technology to improve the lubrication of sliding surfaces.
Showa's thin Emerald coating technology sees surfaces polished by a special process to achieve reduced friction and treated with a multilayer Ti-based coating in emerald colour, which is said to be superior in hardness and wear resistance for longer lasting performance.
The first A-Kit developed by Showa for KTM motorcycles is now available - the GP Series A-Kit for the KTM 450SX-F.

The company says that because MX riders rely so heavily on their suspension performance, requiring quick response on all types of terrain and strength and durability when landing jumps, they have improved the basic performance of the OE fitted suspension by designing a 300 mm long stroke for good damping characteristics.
The operational friction to be able to deal with various road surfaces is reduced by applying its Emerald coating to the inner tubes of the large 49 mm front forks and to the rear cushion rod, with the internal surfaces of the outer tubes receiving the Dimplush process.

SHOWA UK
www.showa1.eu

Yoshimura

Alpha T for 790 Duke

Chino, California based Yoshimura R&D of America has a new Alpha T slip-on available for the KTM 790 Duke. Yoshimura's Erick Bartoldus told IDN that the KTM 790 Duke has been "one of the most anticipated bikes to come from KTM in years. This parallel twin-engined naked bike is built for excitement on the streets, and we couldn't wait to see what we could add to this new orange machine.  Known for its racing prowess and its ability to deliver performance, we developed an Alpha T works finish slip-on for the new 790. The aesthetics are perfect, and the sound was enhanced along with the performance. Peak horsepower was increased by as much as +4% and the Alpha T removes 3 lbs (nearly 1.4 kg) compared to the stock system".
Yoshimura R&D of America, USA, www.yoshimura-rd.com

Zandona

Zandona 'Net3 Technology' protectors

Italian motorcycle protections specialist Zandona's "NetCube Chest RS" chest protection is described as a "special protective device developed with exclusive Net3 Technology to guarantee an optimal protection to the breastbone area during racing and road use.

NetCube Chest RS

"It is perfect to be used with tracksuits, and the Level 2 homologation guarantees a high protective level. Made of breathable textile with an ergonomic shape, Net3 Technology is an innovative structure made of nitrile anti-shock rubber with patented 3D netting - the result of precision studies that allowed us to obtain a winning match of shape and high performance material to guarantee substantial impact energy absorption".
The "NetCube Chest RS" is 100% breathable and CE certified to EN 1621-3 Level 2 and features internal padding in E.V.C. (Evoluted Viscoelastic Cells), waterproof anti-shock material with high performance, weight and density ratio and reduced thickness. Made in Italy, it is available in child and adult sizes.

Hybrid Back Pro

Also seen here, "Hybrid Back Pro" is a Level 2 back protector that is described as "combining optimal protection, ergonomics, comfort and state-of-the-art design - representing an exclusive concept of hybrid protection: a back protector that provides extra protection to the spinal column, mixing the evolution of the high quality plates with the exclusive Net3 Technology.
"This is to guarantee a really high level protection to the whole back, without ignoring the user's comfort". The central structure has high quality plastic plates to protect the spinal column. An Anti-Torsion System is said to provide a resistance system against harmful prone torsion.
It is Level 2 CE approved to EN 1621-2 and has a minimum thickness to optimise its wearability, internal E.V.C. and S.R.T. Technology (Sweat Removing Textile), a very breathable 3D textile that transfers sweat to the outside. 

Net3 Technology Kneeguard

Also in Zandona's "NetCube" range, its Net3 Technology kneeguard has been developed for protecting knees from impacts and bruises with the ergonomic shape and Velcro elastics said to guarantee an optimal stability.
Features include the company's Net3 nitrile anti-shock rubber structure with patented 3D netting for optimal impact energy absorption, E.V.C. internal padding, breathable and waterproof anti-shock material, and extra Neoprene padding on the upper closing strap for comfort; CE certified to EN 1621-1 Level 2.

ZANDONÀ
www.zandona.net

KTM Industries AG

KTM announces joint venture with Gas Gas will "massively strengthen presence in Spain"


KTM Industries AG, to be known in the future as Pierer Mobility, has announced a joint venture "industrial co-operation" with Gas Gas Motorcycles as part of a plan to "further develop its presence in Spain".

KTM Industries AG Chairman Stefan Pierer

In a statement released at the start of October, the company said that "KTM Industries has successfully concluded negotiations with Black Toro Capital - the owners of Gas Gas Motorcycles - about a future industrial co-operation with the famous Spanish motorcycle brand Gas Gas under the lead of KTM Industries AG.
"A cooperation was signed and both partners see this as a starting point for a bright future of the internationally well known brand Gas Gas. New models will be developed alongside the Trial and Enduro bikes of Gas Gas.
"As part of the joint venture, the production of Gas Gas products and Torrot electric vehicles will be continued at Girona/Spain.

Announced in 2018 after winning the inaugural Trial-E Cup in the hands of Marc Colomer, the 67 kg Gas Gas TXE with electric gear drive was said at the time to be the world's first ever production electric trials bike to incorporate the double solution of a mechanical clutch system and six-speed gearbox. The TXE uses the same tubular chromium-molybdenum steel chassis as the Gas Gas TXT and a highly efficient electric engine developed by Torrot.

 

"It is intended that Gas Gas will be added, alongside KTM and Husqvarna Motorcycles and eBikes, as a third brand to the strong sales network of the KTM Industries Group (Pierer Mobility Group)". KTM says the deal is "subject to anti-trust authority approval".
The KTM Industries Group already points to its status as Europe's largest manufacturer of powered two-wheelers and that "strategic partnerships at an operational level [such as this Gas Gas deal] strengthen the competitiveness in our respective markets" with the "high innovation level" of the Pierer Mobility Group ensuring "sustainable organic growth".
Just as is the case with KTM itself, Gas Gas and Torrot are "comeback kids" and storied brands. Gas Gas had its near-death experience when it filed for bankruptcy protection in 2015, facing probable liquidation with reported debts of 44.3m euro.
The KTM deal has been struck with Black Toro Capital (BTC), a private equity investor specialised in Spanish and southern European business opportunities with offices in Barcelona, Madrid and London.
BTC acquired 60% of Barcelona-based eBike and hybrid vehicle manufacturer Torrot in November 2015 in a 15m euro deal. BTC/Torrot then completed a judicial liquidation sale for Gas Gas for an additional 9m euro - taking their total investment to 23m euro. BTC then merged the two businesses and consolidated production at the Salt, Girona factory, retaining 63 Gas Gas employees - the factory having been reduced to a skeleton staff to service demand for parts for some 18 months.
The combined business being managed by the Torrot management team - headed up by Torrot "re-founder" and CEO Ivan Contreras - who retained the remaining 40% ownership stake in the combined business. However, the two brands have maintained separate design and marketing strategies.
At the time there were several potential buyers competing for Gas Gas, including KTM themselves, along with French manufacturer Sherco and a rival investment fund called IRG.
In response to the reported interest from KTM in 2015, some 55 former Gas Gas employees gained international profile when they vociferously endeavoured to dissuade KTM from trying to acquire the brand and its assets from the liquidator. In the end the BTC/Torrot bid of 9m euro emerged as the preferred bid after the former employees had petitioned the Commercial Court of Girona to accept it rather than a KTM or any other deal as quickly as possible.
Torrot itself is also a storied brand. Founder Don Luis Iriondo started making bicycles and mopeds in the late 1940s. In the 1950s he had a partnership with French brand Terrot (producing the Terrot Dijon 100 among other models).
In 1958 Peugeot bought Terrot, but closed it two years later. In order to rebuild his business, Don Luis Iriondo changed the brand's spelling from "Terrot" to "Torrot" and went back to carving out his own place in the market. These days the Barcelona-based Torrot Group makes electric bicycles, trial bikes and kids' minis. Torrot eventually closed in the 1980s, but was brought back to life in 2011.
Gas Gas was founded in 1985, emerging from the rubble left when the original Bultaco factory closed (for the second time) in 1983.
By 2015 Gas Gas had been short of capital for some time. It had received a 4 million euro investment from an international consortium in 2013, with the Catalan government agreeing to provide Gas Gas with a further 2 million euro to fund a recovery plan for the company in 2014.
In 2014 it was announced that Gas Gas would merge with Ossa and relaunch that brand, having previously agreed to share production facilities and personnel. Ossa itself had been relaunched in 2009, three decades after its own original closure.
Also in 2014, Gas Gas reached an agreement with Moto Italia S.r.l., the former Husqvarna Motorcycles S.r.l, to acquire their two and four-stroke engine technology, a deal that had the approval of KTM at the time, KTM having acquired the Husqvarna Motorcycles brand from BMW in early 2013, just five years after BMW had bought it from the then Cagiva MV Agusta group.

The Torrot Velocipedo Cargo - a last mile delivery and courier electric three-wheeler with 40 kg/210 L capacity and a range of 120 km.

Under BTC ownership, Torrot has prospered, developing its own range as well as investing in the Gas Gas facility at Salt, near Girona, where production has been consolidated. By 2018 BTC/Torrot had funded the introduction of the Gas Gas TXE (electric gear drive), the first ever electric trials production model to combine a mechanical clutch system with a six-speed gearbox.
In 2015 Torrot had launched the Muvi electric two-wheeler and announced the 'Velocipedo' in 2017, a three-wheeled, 100% electric vehicle with a range of around 100 miles, featuring regenerative braking, a carbon fibre structure and e-call technology. In 2018 Torrot unveiled the 'Movak' - an urban all-roader and opened its first Torrot/Gas Gas flagship store in Madrid.
Having made and sold some 6,000 models overall in 2016, Gas Gas/Torrot is said to have sold some 16,000 units in 2017 - over 6,000 of them Gas Gas models.
At the time of press the precise nature of the deal between BTC and KTM hadn't been entirely disclosed but it appears that, for now at least, it does not involve KTM taking an equity position; it is also unclear as to whether the partnership also involves Torrot brand vehicles, or just Gas Gas.

German motorcycle registrations

Germany: motorcycles +4.45% January - August

The latest data from the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany, shows motorcycle registrations down by -10.21% in August (9,004 units), having been +13.29% in July (12,275 units) but -10.28% in June (11,518 units) and -1.38% in May (13,660 units).

For the year January to August, the German motorcycle market is +4.45% at 96,516 units YTD but, as elsewhere in Europe, the trend is down after a strong start to 2019. In total PTW terms, August was -8.51% (14,505 units) and +7.32% (138,931 units) for the YTD.
The top selling model for the first eight months of 2019 remains the BMW R 1250 GS (8,330 units), way ahead of the Yamaha MT-07 (3,217) in second place and the Kawasaki Z900 in third (2,729), followed by the Z650 in fourth (2,395) and the Honda Africa Twin fifth with 1,869 units sold 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 21,599 units in total YTD for a commanding 22.38% market share (up +10.31% on the year ago period).
Kawasaki was second with 11,067 units sold for an 11.47% market share; Honda was a close third with 11,065 units sold (11.46% share); KTM fourth (10,951 units sold, 11.35% share); Yamaha fifth (9,734 units sold, 10.09% share) and Harley-Davidson sixth (8,753 units, 9.07% 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).

TecMate

25 years of OptiMate

It was 25 years ago that TecMate introduced its first OptiMate battery charger, diagnostics and maintenance tool as a response to the more powerful and compact AGM (absorbed glass mat - a sealed valve regulating lead-acid battery) that were being introduced into the powersport industry in the late 80s, early 90s.
AGM batteries are still lead-acid batteries, but with a difference, the acid is absorbed into mats (i.e. sponges) which effectively made it a 'dry' battery that could be turned upside down – no more acid spillage, the bane of the biker at the time. 

Unfortunately, AGM technology also proved to be more difficult to recharge, and, especially, to recover it from a low voltage/sulphated state. Motorcycle OEMs wanted a charger for their riders, of course, mainly to ensure that battery outlasted its warranty, but TecMate took it a few steps further, making those batteries last much longer than intended, some even up to 10 years!
The result? Millions of happy AGM batteries that "have lived longer and performed stronger thanks to OptiMate's unique charging algorithm - one designed for AGM, but that works equally well on any type of lead-acid battery," says CEO and CTO Martin Human.
Then, 10 years ago, TecMate saw the emergence of Lithium starter batteries as a growing trend that could become mainstream rather than (at the time) something a few racers or custom bike builders used to save weight and space.
A range of OptiMate Lithium battery chargers were developed along the same lines as their AGM counterparts, all able to safely recover batteries from a low voltage state and then test to confirm the battery is OK. 

OptiMate's Lithium standard range of battery chargers are now recommended globally by Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki and are the 'go to' chargers for a number of global Lithium battery manufacturers.
A reliable, high-performance battery charger, TecMate's stable multistep reselling strategy and its engineering group's design acumen have become the basis of a successful co-branding and OEM programme that continues to gain partners.
OptiMate 3 is the most co-branded battery saving charger, and powersport partners include Honda, Triumph, ES Energy Safe Batteries, Moose Utility Products and Drag Specialties. The OptiMate 1 DUO, the 'no brainer battery maintainer' for any type of battery (lead-acid or Lithium), has gained even more co-brand partners including KTM, Husqvarna and Honda now all using co-branded OptiMate Lithium battery chargers.
Martin Human says: "Part of OptiMate's success is due to this simple fact - no one cares about a battery until it's dead. Then the battery owner needs help, but 99.9% of people are not battery experts.
"OptiMate battery chargers are fully automatic with all the necessary battery intelligence built in - simply connect and OptiMate does the thinking for you. OptiMate has been trusted by the powersports industry since 1994," says Martin.
www.tecmate.com