The 77th EICMA Show (Milan, November 6-10) has been universally judged to have been a "Good Year" by the market's parts, accessory and G&A vendors. The organisers are claiming nearly 800,000 visitors - whether or not that is true really doesn't matter - the fact is there were plenty to go around! We don't need statistics to be able to judge it a success. With +50 cc PTW registrations running at +5.9% (196,956 units) for the first nine months of 2019, and having been up consistently for the past few years, the Italian market is now "bossing it" where Europe's "business action" is concerned...
Fulbat: The Belgian battery specialist recently added Lithium Ion batteries to its range. Developed to be interchangeable with a lead acid battery for motorcycle applications, they are said to "provide excellent starting properties and reliability, an ultra-light weight, a much longer life cycle and a wide operating temperature range with outstanding safety features". They meet all the requirements for starter batteries, especially for riders who are looking for higher performance and are "maintenance-free and ready to use with up to 180 degrees of multi-position mounting, fast charging capabilities, high cold cranking performance, long shelf life, very low self-discharge and an efficient charging indicator"; www.fulbat.com
Barkbusters: A top seller worldwide, the award-winning, innovative Australian designed and manufactured BarkBusters range of handguards by RideWorx continues to grow, with the latest addition being the 'Sabre' MX/Enduro handguards, 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; www.barkbusters.net
Answer Racing: Distributed in selected markets in Europe by Bihr, the American Answer Racing apparel programme is one of the most popular off-road and MX gear and apparel ranges in the United States; www.answerracing.com
BMC Air Filters: The oiled cotton filter technology developed by BMC has impeccable performance credentials as the filter of choice from Formula 1 to WorldSBK and MotoGP. The company says that the technology engineered into each of its washable and reusable filters archives that much sought-after balance between optimised air flow and engine protection. BMC says that its oiled cotton filter construction is superior to synthetic materials and that under ISO 5011 'Coarse' grade dirt testing comes as close as possible to complete filtration efficiency - at 98% compared to 48% for comparable synthetic material filters tested; www.bmcairfilters.com
FullSix: One of the motorcycle industries leading carbon fibre component manufacturers, Slovenian manufacturer FullSix, part of the CDT Group, offers everything from levers, winglets and fuel tanks to complete fairing kits, exhaust heat shields and caliper cooler sets. The hero at the company's EICMA booth was a stunning, light weight, high strength carbon fibre monocoque sub-frame for the BMW S 1000 RR; www.fullsixcarbon.com
SBS: The Danish brake and clutch manufacturer has posted another successful year and with a new booth design at EICMA has completed a journey of brand identity renewal that started with new packaging and marketing 12 months ago. More track success and an ongoing programme of product range updates is keeping SBS and its dealers busy, with plenty to tell their customers - not least about its innovative new online 'Pad Finder' tool; www.sbsbrakes.com
G.P.R. Italia: One of Europe's longest established exhaust manufacturers, with impressive race pedigree and a reputation for innovation, has as a result of sales feedback from its distributors and dealers followed up the success of its M3 Titanium slip-ons to celebrate its 2017 and 2018 Moto3 World Championships and homologated 'Sonic Revolution' and 'Powercone' designs with the launch of new INOX (stainless steel) versions of the M3. The INOX is available in a homologated version with removable baffle for most of the best-selling recent new sport and naked bikes, and the more competitive price will give street bike riders of bikes such as the Z800, Hornet 600, ER 6 and MT-09 access to the same race pedigree that goes into every G.P.R. exhaust system; www.gpr.it
TecMate: Celebrating 25 years of the OptiMate brand, 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, a real problem for bikers 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. 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 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. CEO and CTO 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"; www.tecmate.com
Italy: motorcycles +8.15% January - October
The latest data released by ANCMA, the motorcycle industry trade association in Italy, shows the Italian motorcycle market continuing to grow with sales YTD +8.15% at 92,585 units - the strongest January to October market performance in Italy since before 2013.
New motorcycle registrations were reported as being +2.41% in October (6,374 units) after being +8.75% in September (6,950 units).
In total PTW terms, the Italian market was +10.68% in October (18,268 units) after being +3.61% in September (18,179 units). Total PTW registrations were +6.79% at 216,625 units for the YTD - still the strongest Italian market performance since 2011.
Scooter registrations were +5.80% YTD at 124,040 units for the first ten months, with the top three best sellers being Honda's Italian-made SH 150/300/125 range selling 25,433 units between them YTD, with Piaggio's Beverly 300 ABS in fourth spot (7,669 units) and its Liberty 125 ABS fifth (5,544 units), ahead of Kymco's Agility 125 R16 (4,892), Yamaha's XMAX 300 (4,383) and the Honda X-ADV 750 (4,067 units registered so far in 2019).
The top selling motorcycle in Italy YTD was the BMW R 1250 GS (3,875 units), followed by Honda's 'Africa Twin' (3,527), the Benelli TRK 502/X (2,970 units sold) and the Yamaha 'Tracer' 900 (2,626 units).
For the full year of 2018, the Italian motorcycle market was reported at +12.73% (92,991 units) and +7.35% in total PTW registration terms (219,465 units).
MV Agusta secures five-year plan funding
MV Agusta has announced a five-year business plan and says it has secured the capital to support its execution and the "consolidation and growth of the company", entirely provided by the Sardarov family, MV Agusta's shareholder.
The business plan aims at reaching a sales volume of over 25,000 motorcycles in the five-year frame, along with investments in both a new premium and medium capacity range "which will enable the company to extend the availability of MV Agusta products to more customers. In the three-year period 2019-2021, the industrial plan also provides for a strong investment in the global distribution network focused primarily on Europe, Asia and the USA".
MV Agusta says it is starting production of the new "Hyper-naked" model, the Brutale 1000 Serie Oro and the Superveloce 800 Serie Oro. Both models will be produced in only 300 units, "all of which have been sold out online in just a few days. They will be delivered to customers over the next months".
After becoming the new Chairman of the Board and CEO in December 2018, Timur Sardarov has put together a new top management structure and has brought Massimo Bordi and Paolo Bettin into MV Agusta's team. Bordi, a "renowned engineer and manager in the industry" has been appointed to the position of Executive Vice Chairman, with Paolo Bettin, "who has a strong record in the financial restructuring of several industrial companies", as the new CFO of MV Agusta, while Giovanni Castiglioni remains in an advisory role.
Timur Sardarov commented: "Over the next five years, MV Agusta's attention will be focused on developing the sales and service network, while investing in product development and maintaining its efforts in digitalisation and technological innovation. We are committed to deliver the best products and continue to be a benchmark in the motorcycle industry in quality, design and technology - finally MV Agusta has all the tools to do so.
"Together with the management, we are working diligently to execute the business plan and achieve our objectives, which will require an increase of personnel and dedication from all at every level of the company. This will also positively impact the local community in terms of employment and benefit related Varese-area industries."
World Ducati Week 2020
Ducati has announced the dates for the 11th biennial World Ducati Week 2020 (WDW) - 17, 18 and 19 July at the "Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli", Misano Adriatico (Italy). In 2018, WDW attracted approximately 91,500 visitors. More info as it becomes available at wdw.ducati.com
'Andromeda' parka
The new 'Andromeda' parka from Hevik is said to be versatile and practical and "equal to any classical technical jacket, featuring ingenious technical solutions for ultimate comfort and ventilation".
With its CE certification it is "perfect to be worn over a suit and tie, in particular on maxi scooters", and comes with a detachable hood. The external laminated fabric features an impermeable and breathable membrane, waterproof to 5,000 mm, which is elastic (Spandex). It also has a 100 g removable thermal padding and finishing touches such as knitted wool cuffs.
'Andromeda' features the innovative "Hevik ventilation system", which provides "optimal air recirculation". With a mesh flap folded under the right-hand side that can be hooked onto the left side, it includes a zip that can become an extra air vent to allow direct air in from the front. This doesn't affect the outer flap, which will remain open and anchored onto the left-hand side of the jacket using several small magnets.
The jacket has numerous pockets inside and outside and safety is provided by Level 1 approved protection at shoulders and elbows, with a back pocket to insert a HFB back protector (made by Hevik and CE Level 2 certified).
'Andromeda' is available in black in sizes from S to 4XL.
HEVIK
www.hevik.com
Rainers track success and 'Misuri' jacket
Rainers Sports in Spain has had a great year on the track with its sponsored riders - not least with 17 year old Kawasaki racer Manu Gonzalez ("Manugas") who "trusts Rainers for his racing gear" and recently won the Supersport 300 World Championship at Magny-Cours, France, becoming the youngest rider in history to win this title.
Recent new products added to the Rainers Sports range include the 'Misuri' jacket, made in 600D Nylon with a waterproof membrane, removable thermal lining and an "especially soft neck".
Additional features include air ventilation at the forearms, waterproof zippers, reflective high visibility print on the back, adjustment straps at the arms and waist and outside TPU protectors at the elbows. It is available in black with yellow fluo or red details and made to CE certification EN 17092.
www.rainers-sports.com
PBR handlebars
In addition to its rear and front sprockets, Italian specialist PBR also produces this exclusive line of street and off-road handlebars.
The street range consists of two Ergal (7075 zinc alloy aluminium) lines made in different colours with a 28.6 mm version for sports and naked bikes with variable clamp area dimension and without reinforcing bar, and a 22 mm version for the most popular naked style motorcycles.
For street motorcycles PBR also offers 'clip-ons' made of light silver coloured alloy with an inclination of 7.5 degrees for most forks from 41 to 54 mm diameter for model-specific screw or universal expansion style handlebar weights.
For off-road motorcycles the range has been updated with new bumpers with more contemporary graphics and brighter colours.
Developed during MX and Enduro world championships, they too are made in 7075 T6 heat treated Ergal and offered as a 22 mm Pro-version with a classic design with a reinforcing bar and in a 28.6 mm racing version with variable clamp area dimension, with and without a reinforcing bar and fork plate attachment kit.
Both versions are supplied with standard bumpers in three colours, red, blue and orange, for two different shapes "and all PBR road and off-road handlebars have guaranteed sturdiness and reliability".
PBR SPROCKETS
www.pbr.it
'Herm' and 'Hermia' Cordura collection
Rukka's Cordura line is "aimed at riders who value safety, functionality and comfort, even on shorter journeys", and have expanded the line with these 'Herm' and 'Hermia jackets.
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| 'Herm' |
Cordura 500 elbow reinforcements provide tear and abrasion resistance. In the 'Herm' jacket, shoulders, elbows and forearms are additionally protected by the new Rukka D3OAir XTR Level 2 protectors (CE standard EN 1621-1 2012). 'Hermia' includes D3O LP1 protectors (EN 1621-1 2012), which have the same properties, but are specially shaped for the female anatomy. Both jackets can be upgraded further with a Rukka D3O Air All Back protector or the D3O Full Back protector.
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| 'Hermia' |
A Gore-Tex Z-liner provides breathable wind-and waterproofing, both jackets include removable thermal lining and air vents, and they have two external pockets and two waterproof interior pockets. Both have a body hugging fit, with adjusters on the sleeves and the sides of the hem. 'Hermia' also features an elastic strip in the back for a slim fit at the waist; both have Neoprene collars.
The men's jacket comes in light grey with white and red detailing or in black with graphics in silver, yellow or green. The women's jacket comes in light grey with pink or red details, as well as in black with silver, yellow or green elements. Both can easily be joined to any pair of Rukka trousers using the all-round zipper.
RUKKA/LUHTA SPORTWEAR COMPANY
www.rukka.com
KTM Industries AG to be renamed PIERER Mobility AG
KTM Industries AG Group has announced a corporate Group level name-change in order to recognise the increasing importance to its balance sheet of its "emerging brands" - especially considering the developments in the e-mobility sector - and to future-proof its reporting and corporate strategic planning.
As Europe's "leading manufacturer" of "powered two-wheelers", producing in series all drive technologies from combustion engines to electric motors, upcoming brands such as "Husqvarna Motorcycles", "Husqvarna Bicycles", "Raymon" and the component brand "WP" will now appear alongside the core brand "KTM" under the PIERER Mobility AG umbrella.
The Group continued its growth in the first half of 2019, registering Group revenue of EUR 754.9 million. This corresponds to growth of +4.2% (excluding the Pankl-Group) compared with the same period during the previous year and lies at the upper end of the company's expectations.
With a total of 135,711 motorcycles sold in the first half of the year (+7% compared to the previous year - 115,318 KTM motorcycles and 20,393 Husqvarna motorcycles) "the Group strengthened its position as Europe's largest motorcycle manufacturer. At EUR 46.6 million, earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) in the first half of 2019 were significantly over budget.
During the first six months of the current financial year KTM Industries Group ("KTM") outperformed the overall market (+2.7%) in its key motorcycle markets (> 120cc), with its KTM and Husqvarna Motorcycles brands, with an increase in registrations of +5.2%.
"In the most important future market for KTM, India, KTM registrations in the first half of the year increased by over 35% in comparison with the previous year. Its market share rose from around 4.3% to around 6.8% with 32,539 (+7,672) KTM bikes already sold in India and Indonesia via our strategic partner Bajaj.
In July 2019, KTM AG increased its equity holding in Motorcycle Distributors Australia Pty Ltd from 26% to 100%. The sales subsidiaries in Australia and New Zealand therefore becoming wholly owned subsidiaries of the KTM Group.
"With over 10,000 KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles sold, the Australian and New Zealand business has developed into the world's third largest market, meaning that Motorcycle Distributors Australia Pty Ltd is KTM AG's third largest subsidiary".
In June 2019, KTM Industries AG and Bajaj Auto Ltd. decided to launch a series of development projects for PTW electric vehicles in the performance range of between 3 and 10 kW (48 V) at KTM AG level. The platform will support various product variants - powered two-wheelers and electric bicycles - under the brands of both partners.
"Series production will begin by 2022 at Bajaj's production location in Pune, India. This will represent a further significant step in strengthening the cooperation with Bajaj. The Bajaj Group has also further strengthened its commitment to the KTM Industries-Group and the board of Bajaj Auto has approved to acquire 1% of the shares in KTM Industries
UK: motorcycle registrations +1.58% January - September
The latest data available from the MCIA, the motorcycle industry association in the UK, shows new motorcycle registration growth continuing to slow from the good start to 2019 with sales at just +1.58% for the year to September (83,906 units).
While many in the UK are pointing to Brexit and general uncertainty, with consumer confidence low, it does fit with the trend being seen elsewhere in the European market.
The UK motorcycle market was +3.45% (12,129 units) in September, having been +2.85% in July (9,223 units) and -8.51% (6,335 units) in August.
Moped market volumes remain low in the UK, but there is growth of +15.58% YTD (4,784 units) to put total new PTW registrations at +2.25% YTD (88,690 units), the strongest since 2016.
The largest single market sector in the UK remains 'Naked' style bikes, which accounted for 29,172 units YTD for a growth rate of +2.8%. The Adventure Sport sector is the second largest, growing at +9.0% YTD (16,231 units). In percentage terms, the biggest losers were the relatively small Sport/Tour (-21.2%, 2,128 units) and Touring (-13.3%, 1,857 units) sectors; Trail/Enduro bikes are +8.0% YTD in the UK with 5,144 units sold. Scooters were +3.9% YTD at 15,968 units.
Honda was market share leader in September (2,601 units), followed by BMW, Yamaha, Triumph and Kawasaki. The R 1250 GS Adventure was the top selling Adventure Sport model in the UK in September (299 units), with the R 1250 RT leading the Touring sector and the R 1250 RS replacing the Kawasaki Z1000 SX as the best selling Sport/Tour model.
The Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team is to welcome ex Yamaha man Romain Febvre on a multiple year deal for the 2020 FIM MXGP MX World Championship. Next season KRT will line up two of the most successful and experienced riders in the series as the Frenchman joins Clément Desalle to compete on the KX450 Kawasaki.
As at October 2019, still a year before the event, the 2020 AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building has received entries for 41 bikes from 32 builders representing 21 countries for the 14th 'AMD' - well ahead of this time in the cycle at any time since the event moved to Europe from Sturgis and became biennial.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Piaggio Group have signed a 7-year 70 million euro finance contract to fund research and development projects included in the Piaggio Group’s investment plan, conducted at its Italian sites over the three-year period 2019-2021. The loan will also further strengthen the Group’s financial structure through the extension of its average debt life and the reduction of the average cost of debt.
Polaris CEO Scott Wine is quoted as saying that the Administration's proposed 25% tariff on imported Chinese componentry would be "downright catastrophic in terms of its impact on the company and employees," claiming that they could cost the company a third of its net income. Meanwhile, at time of press, it was still unclear whether or not the EU plan for a massive retaliatory tariff attack on U.S. made motorcycle component exports to Europe was still on the cards or not.
Harley says that it made history in May with the 5 millionth motorcycle rolling off its York, PA. assembly line. Having initially been a U.S Navy WWII ant-aircraft gun factory, Harley moved Ironhead Sportster and Shovelhead FL model production there in 1973.
Triumph's UK and Ireland Sales Manager Bruno Tagliaferri retired at the end of August after 29 years with the company and after 44 years in the motorcycle industry, including time with Honda. Tagliaferri was one of the first to join the reborn Triumph in 1990.
The 36th edition of the popular Motor Beurs, Utrecht, will take place from February 20 to 23rd, 2020. Regularly attracting over 100,000 visitors - making it the largest motorcycle show in the Netherlands.
EICMA will see a European debut for Yamaha's 2020 YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M Supersport flagship models with further advanced and enhanced track performance. Both models are powered by liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-valve, in-line 4-cylinder 998 cm3 engines featuring a crossplane crankshaft. Launch of the YZF-R1 and the YZF-R1M in Japan is planned for the fall of 2020. Based on the "Full Control Evolution for the Master of the Racetrack" concept, both the YZF-R1 and the YZF-R1M were developed "with the aim of providing performance to dominate circuit racing via its high-level control of abundant surging power".
Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MNW
Halvarssons and Lindstrands apparel brands bought by Duell Bike-Center Group
Swedish specialist Jofama has sold its Halvarssons and Lindstrands apparel brands to Finland's Duell Bike-Center Group. Comprising "high-quality apparel specifically designed for riding snowmobiles and motorbikes", the Halvarssons and Lindstrands brands will be under Finnish ownership as of 1st December 2019.
The asset deal between Duell and Jofama not only includes transfer of brand ownership, but also the product development, sales staff and current product stock.
The Halvarssons and Lindstrands brands have been designing "versatile riding apparel for motorbike riding: jackets, trousers, underwear, footwear, bags and gloves" for 70 years. The product philosophy is based on "high-quality craftsmanship" and has earned the brands clients such as the police forces of Sweden, the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic, who have all used Halvarssons riding apparel for a number of years.
The riding apparel of both brands is CE certified, "which means that the clothing conforms with the EU's highest safety categories for riding equipment". Halvarssons designs and manufactures "traditional, extremely durable and safe motorbike apparel for the Scandinavian climate. Over the past few years, Halvarssons has expanded its range to include trendy riding apparel and accessories for snowmobiling.
"Lindstrands started manufacturing motorbike footwear back in the 1950s, and today produces riding apparel for people who want to stand out from the crowd and enjoy a life of adventure. With its broad product range and modern features, Lindstrands products have become particularly popular among enduro and adventure rider enthusiasts."
Jarkko Ämmälä, CEO of Duell Bike-Center Group, said: "We are very proud to incorporate into our family these legendary Swedish brands that are renowned for their high quality. From now on, Duell faces the familiar business from a slightly different perspective, as we will also be operating on the market as a manufacturer of apparel for motorcycle and snowmobile riders under our brands Halvarssons and Lindstrands. We will also be continuing the path shown by Jofama in seeking new growth and popularity for these brands in the future."
v is an import company established in 1983 in Mustasaari, Finland, with imported products sold in Finland, Sweden, Norway, the United Kingdom, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania through their dealer network.
The import range of Duell includes clothing, equipment and spare parts for motorbikes, mopeds, ATVs, in addition to boating supplies. Duell says it is the market leader of powersports products in Finland, Scandinavia and the Baltic nations and represents leading brands such as Oakley, Scott, Alpinestars, HJC and Schuberth riding apparel, Pirelli, Metzeler and Dunlop tyres, and Fox and Brembo technical products.
The group employs a total of 90 people in Finland, Sweden, Norway and Estonia, and the consolidated turnover for 2019 is expected to reach 55 million euro. Duell has logistics centres in Mustasaari in Finland and Tranås in Sweden.
www.duell.fi
Dakar inspired KTM slip-on
Italian performance exhaust specialist SC-Project has added to its race-derived exhaust options for all-terrain bikes (Adv) with this new 'Rally Raid' muffler for the KTM 790 Adventure - developed by the SC R&D department for extreme off-road use.
With inspiration taken from the gruelling and varied conditions encountered in the Dakar Rally, it is fully made in titanium, right down to the muffler downpipe socket and robust, highly resistant fixing clamp, resulting in the highest possible strength, lowest possible weight and best possible performance improvements.
Supplied with a Db Killer, the muffler comes with Euro-4 homologation and it is suitable for street-legal use.
SC-Project will unveil a full system line (100% titanium) with 'Rally Raid' silencer, for race use only, at EICMA.
SC-PROJECT
www.sc-project.com
Off-Road spoke sets and brake discs "on the shelf and ready to ship"
Swedish off-road spokes and wheels specialist Cross-Center reports increasing sales right across its range of Swedish made wheel products, with particularly strong demand so far in 2019 of its off-road wheels.
The company has added spokes and wheels for many older and late-model bikes this year, including BMW GS models, KTM Adventure, SMC models and the Honda Africa Twin. "We have also made spokes for several military models that are used throughout Europe like the KTM LC4 03-05, Husqvarna model 258, Husqvarna model 256, and even the new Yamaha XTZ 700 that is used by some countries," says Cross-Center owner and founder Torbjörn 'Tobbe' Bergh.
"We have now passed the 550 mark in terms of different article numbers for spoke sets, with some of the latest additions including for the R1200GS, KTM 450 Rally, BMW G 650X 18 and 21" and the F 650GS 17", the Honda XRV 650 18x2, Bonneville T 120 17 and 18", NX 650 and YZ 100/125 21".
"There are just too many to list really, but the full range of applications is on our website," Tobbe told IDN. All precision made in-house by Cross-Center in Sweden, from high grade, high strength Swedish steel, and Tobbe says that all their spoke sets are "in stock and ready for fast delivery. We keep our inventory very high - most of what we make is on the shelf and ready to ship."
"We have also added a lot of new MX brake disc applications for older and the latest models of Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, KTM and Husqvarna. We have almost 200 different brake discs in stock.
"People worldwide rely on our from-stock speed of delivery and top quality, and it is the range that gets people's attention. From the newest models to the oldest - Vintage MX is over 50 percent of the sales here in Sweden, and our export orders suggest the same trend is happening around the world. The enthusiasm for vintage is massive."
www.cross-center.com
Sifam Hoodies - 'comfort and protection'
In addition to its S-Line own brand helmets programme ('Venge' S441 full-face, S770 'Kyle' jet, American design SWAP’S Industry S818 MX style), French specialist Sifam has added to its apparel programme with additional new hoodies for men and women "with a cool urban and casual look that will keep you warm and protect you".
Made of thick and reinforced cotton (Aramid), "these hoodies are extremely soft and protective with an elastic hem at the base and cuffs for a perfect fit, designed for comfortable and safe riding".
Further features include CE-approved elbow, shoulder and back protectors with Aramid reinforcements for better resistance to abrasion.
SIFAM
www.sifam.fr
S 1000 RR 2019 accessories
Italian sport bike and race parts specialist Bonamici has turned its attention to the popular 2019 BMW S 1000 RR with a wide range of model-specific accessories available.
"Designed and developed through our race experience, all these accessories are CNC-machined in aluminium and give dealers a comprehensive range of options with which to help their S 1000 RR riders improve the performance and looks of their bikes with high quality personal touches that will set them apart".
Available products include rearsets, left side engine protection, left side water pump protection, right side pick-up protection, right side clutch protection, full kit engine cover protection, brake and clutch levers and kits, chain adjuster, street and racing version top triple clamps, handlebars for stock or Bonamici Racing top triple clamps, dashboard cover protection, steering plate 'bracelets', mirror blocks, engine oil and gas caps, swingarm spools (racing and standard) and a universal fit 24 ml oil tank. All accessories come as standard in black.
BONAMICI RACING
www.bonamiciracing.it
Italy: motorcycles +8.60% January - September
The latest data released by ANCMA, the motorcycle industry trade association in Italy, shows the Italian motorcycle and scooter market continuing to grow, with motorcycle sales to September +8.60% at 86,211 units - the strongest January to September market performance for motorcycles in Italy since before 2013.
New motorcycle registrations were reported as being +5.57% in August (4,684 units) and +8.75% in September (6,950 units).
In total PTW terms, the Italian market was -2.47% in August (11,701 units) and +3.48% in September (18,155 units), which conforms to the trend seen elsewhere in Europe of registration growth slowing down after a strong start to 2019. Total PTW registrations were +6.43% YTD at 198,323 units - still the strongest Italian market performance since 2011.
Scooter registrations were +4.81% YTD at 112,112 units for the first nine months, with the top three best sellers being Honda's Italian made SH 150/300/125 range, selling 23,149 units between them YTD, with Piaggio's Beverly 300 ABS in fourth spot (7,090 units) and its Liberty 125 ABS fifth (5,121 units), ahead of Kymco's Agility 125 R16 (4,505), Yamaha's XMAX 300 (4,064) and the Honda X-ADV 750 (3,818 units registered so far in 2019).
The top selling motorcycle in Italy YTD was the BMW R 1250 GS (3,657 units), followed by Honda's Africa Twin (3,253), the Benelli TRK 502/X (2,788 units sold) and the Yamaha 'Tracer' 900 (2,472 units).
For the full year of 2018 the Italian motorcycle market was reported at +12.73 (92,991 units) and +7.35 percent in total PTW registration terms (219,465 units).
Organiser Koelnmesse has confirmed 2020 dates for INTERMOT, Cologne, with the show open to press and trade visitors on Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th October, with four days of public attendance from Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th. INTERMOT Customized in Hall 10 will again host the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building.
Husqvarna Motorcycles are set to return to the Moto3 World Championship in 2020. After 5 years of absence, Husqvarna says it will field an official team composed of two riders. The company says that their Moto3 effort "complements Husqvarna Motorcycles’ continuing expansion in street motorcycles, which will see constant growth and development in the coming years".
Fort Worth, Texas based Tucker Powersports (formerly Tucker Rocky Distributing) has announced its 2020 'Tucker Show' for the downtown Fort Worth Convention Center for three days from January 21st to 23rd 2020.
SIP Scootershop in Germany is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Founders Alex Barth and Ralf Jodl started the business in a garage, but it has quickly and continuously grown, with a new custom-built new 6,000 sq m headquarters facility, complete with in-house Dyno and R&D department, opened at Landsberg, Germany, in May 2016. The company carries more than 24,000 scooter parts and lifestyle items in stock at any one time and has a multi-lingual sales staff.
Motorradwelt Bodensee will be staged at Messe Friedrichshafen, February 20 -23. Close to the Austrian and Swiss borders, it is the largest spring 'mainstream' motorcycle show in southern Germany and regularly attracts over 300 exhibitors and 50,000 visitors.
In the U.S. total EV sales across all manufacturers were 176,174 through the first seven months of the year, +14.5% on the year ago period. Global electric vehicles sales were 1,105,405 in the first six months of 2019, +46.9 from 752,690 in the year ago period.
German oil and additives specialist Liqui Moly has become an official Parts Unlimited supplier in the USA. The company offers a wide range of motor oils for four and two-stroke engines for road machines, Enduro, ATV and snowmobiles.
South African carbon wheels specialist Blackstone Tek has unveiled a new website, with "new brand experience and new product features. Our new brand identity - Distinctly The Best - reflects the forward-moving direction of the company. Our new identity and tagline represent BST’s commitment to innovation and new product development, while honouring our years in the carbon fibre industry".
Cardo Systems, Ltd. and Ducati Motor Holdings S.p.A. have announced retail availability of its special edition Ducati Red PACKTALK units at Ducati dealers in the USA. PACKTALK products are powered by Cardo’s ground-breaking Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) technology, allowing up to 15 riders to connect seamlessly and feature Cardo’s natural voice-command and sound by JBL.
Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MNW
Japanese made motorcycle exports to Europe -23.35% January - August
After modest growth seen in the final quarter of 2018, the latest data released by JAMA (the automotive trade association in Japan, which includes representation of motorcycle manufacturers among its membership) shows exports of Japanese made motorcycles to Europe continuing to decline in 2019 by -23.35% percent for the first eight months at 102,927 units; European imports have been down each month this year so far. They have been in dramatic decline ever since they peaked at 292,000 for the first eight months in 2007.
Exports of Japanese made motorcycles to USA YTD were -23.79% through August at 37,599 units. Total Japanese factory manufactured motorcycle exports worldwide were -20.11% for the YTD at 189,158 units; they peaked at 518,000 in 2007.
Total PTW exports to Europe (motorcycles, scooters and mopeds combined) were -23.82% for the eight months to August 2019 at 112,469 units; -13.42% to USA (64,796 units) and -17.83% worldwide (250,256 units). The peak was seen at 824,000 units in 2001.
The increasing number of units being made by Japanese manufacturers elsewhere in Asia, the US and South/Central America goes some way to providing historical context for the data, though the majority of higher value larger displacement Japanese brand machines, especially those being sold in Europe, are still made in Japan.
Their overseas factories are primarily engaged in making and selling scooters and smaller capacity units in 'emerging' markets (where import tariffs are high) and in making ATV/UTV units - especially in the United States where demand for such machines is strongest.
Annual Japanese made motorcycle and moped (all PTW) exports fell off a cliff in 2009 to 583,879 from over 1m in 2008 and have continued to decline most years since then (463,123 units in 2017, 456,758 units in 2018); they peaked at 1,641m units in 2000.
'Velox' and 'Vector' in new Sport U line
The new Sport U line collection from Stylmartin includes two new boots which are both waterproof, have different styles for the intended range of users, but "share a sporty and bold character".
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| Velox |
Both models have internal ankle protectors (in PU) on both sides, external micro-injected inserts and an anti-slip outer sole, plus an EVA shock absorber, as well as a waterproof and breathable internal lining. Stability is provided by lace-up closure and a frontal tear open strap.
'Velox' has "a sporty design, ideal for riders wanting to wear the boots on and off their bike". The upper is made from a combination of suede leather and textiles, supported by the sturdy structure and with a high cut above the ankle. This model also features a gear/shift protector and is available in black/anthracite grey. It also has an anatomical, changeable and breathable microperforated footbed.
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| Vector |
The 'Vector' has "more urban character and features slim styling, together with more lightweight materials of microfibre and microfibre rubber, the lining is waterproof and breathable with air mesh and features include malleolus protection on both sides, fastening laces, as well as an anatomic, changeable and breathable, microperforated footbed". The 'Vector' targets female riders, with sizes starting at 36. The boot offers different coloured inserts (including red and purple) over the base black/anthracite colour.
STYLMARTIN
www.stylmartin.it
Caption with filenames, show Velox first.
