Thursday 25 June 2020

UK motorcycle registrations

UK: motorcycle registrations -51.86% in May 2020

The latest data available from the MCIA, the motorcycle industry association in the UK, shows that new motorcycle registrations in the UK were -51.86% in May at 4,965 units (compared to 10,313 in May 2019), having been -83.93% (1,467 units) in April and -22.19% in March (12,484 units) after a promising start to the year (+2.29%/5,709 in January and +3.48%/4,254 units in February).


As is emerging elsewhere in Europe, the May data for the UK suggests somewhat of a market recovery as lockdown easing starts to take effect - though that said, as at the start of June, the UK lags the rest of Europe in terms of its emergence from the COVID-19 emergency.
In YTD motorcycle registration terms, the UK is running at -36.08% (28,881 units) and in total PTW terms the UK was -50.59% in May (5,336 units in total) and is -35.59% YTD (30,612 units in total, compared to 47,524 in 2019).
By way of context - motorcycle registrations in the UK grew slightly in 2019, +0.72% with 100,472 units sold. Many in the UK pointed to consumer confidence being low as a result of Brexit and general economic uncertainty as the reasons why the UK motorcycle market didn't do as well as elsewhere in 2019. Along with Italy, France, Germany and Spain, the UK remains one of Europe's 'Big Five' markets (actually, the 5th largest) who between them account for over 80% of annual new registrations in Europe.

MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship

Six WSBK rounds confirmed - four in Spain

The 2020 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship has announced that, after discussions with the governments, Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), circuits, paddock personnel and Dorna WSBK Organisation (DWO), a provisional calendar for the remainder of 2020 can be confirmed.


 
The Championship launched in dramatic fashion at Phillip Island on March 1st, but is now set to recommence at the Circuito de Jerez Angel Nieto at the end of July.
The following weekend will see the Championship take to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal from 7-9 August. The final round in August will then take place at MotorLand Aragon on the 28-30 August, as was the previously rescheduled plan.
An additional round at MotorLand Aragon has also been added, from the 4th - 6th of September, which means that four of the six confirmed rounds will take place in Spain. The first ever Catalan WorldSBK round will go ahead as planned from 18-20 September, before the French round at Magny-Cours from the 2-4 October. 



Possible additional rounds to be confirmed could be in Argentina (on the original 9th - 11th October date) and the final round of the Championship at the Misano World Circuit "Marco Simoncelli" for the Rimini round from the 6-8 of November.
Rounds in the UK (Donington Park), the Netherlands (Assen) and Qatar (Losail) are still "to be determined".


Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director, Sporting and Organisation Departments: "The new 2020 WorldSBK calendar is extremely positive news. We have a calendar, we have a Championship and we are going to have great racing return."

Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director, Sporting and Organisation Departments, said: "The new 2020 WorldSBK calendar is extremely positive news. We have a calendar, we have a Championship and we are going to have great racing return, and I can't thank all parties enough for the cooperation and coordination they've displayed.
"To restart the season back in Spain is fitting, given the struggles that the country has faced during the pandemic. With Portimao following Jerez and then MotorLand Aragon closing the month, this can be a great return to normal for everyone."

WorldSSP/300

WorldSSP/300 schedule confirmed - additional race for each class on Saturdays

In a news release of June 19th, WSBK rights owner Dorna says that "the return of all three championships will bring more racing action, with additional races in place for the support classes to WorldSBK". 



The 2020 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship will return to action from the 31st July, along with the FIM Supersport World Championship (WorldSSP) and the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship (WorldSSP300).
Both the WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 classes will feature revised weekend schedules, composing of an additional race for each class on the Saturdays after Tissot Superpole sessions have been completed and therefore still keeping within the traditional three-day WSBK race weekend format.
WorldSSP300 Tissot Superpole will happen directly before the class' Last Chance Race, whilst WorldSBK Race 1, WorldSSP Race 1 and then WorldSSP300 Race 1 will follow. The overall event schedule changes mean that now, racing action will begin for all classes on Saturday, with full championship points awarded in all races.
Gregorio Lavilla, Executive Director WorldSBK Sporting and Organisation departments, said: "Both championships will continue to add a great spectacle to the WorldSBK class, and as with World Superbike, everyone's safety, for both championships, is an absolute priority in returning to action - something that is uncompromisable. WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 will follow the same calendar of WorldSBK and with the same strict guidelines in place, meaning more races will be held for the two support classes than ever before.
"The history of both WorldSSP and WorldSSP300 enriches the atmosphere of the WorldSBK paddock, often providing some of the closest racing all season, as well as allowing the stars of the future to flourish on the world stage."

News Briefs




Internationally recognised German BMW parts and accessory specialist Wunderlich was Motorrad Magazine readers' choice as Best Brand in the "Accessories/Conversions" category.

 

In the United States, chain manufacturer D.I.D is to sponsor the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul, the youth oriented racing series, in 2020. "The D.I.D brand has long been known for its exceptional performance and quality. All D.I.D chains are engineer-developed and manufactured in Kaga, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan, by skilled technicians whose goal of perfection is to provide outstanding performance chains for all riders," said Clay Solise of D.I.D North America. "Progressing the sport by being an encouragement to younger riders is exactly what we're all about."

 

Swedish off-road, motocross and ADV/Enduro spoke set specialist Cross Center reports strong importer and dealer demand from all around the world in recent months through its award-winning website. The company has just added its 600th spoke set - 50-0600 spoke set for KX 250/450 18" 74-76, rear 9G/275-36 - made in Sweden by Cross Center using top grade Swedish steel. The company also recently added spoke sets for 17" and 18" applications on the Bonneville T 120 18" 2016 and up.

Asphalt & Rubber reports that German automotive suspension specialist Bilstein is said to be about to enter the motorcycle suspension market for the first time later this year with gas pressurised monotube design front forks and coil-over design rear shock absorbers with compression and rebound adjustment for the BMW S100RR, 2009 and up. It is thought that the German manufacturer will aim to go head-to-head for the top-end of the suspension market and OEM contracts with the likes of Öhlins, Showa, Sachs and WP.

 

The Honda factory is to recall the CBR1000RR-R in Europe over concerns about a possible problem with the con-rods. Some 300 units are thought to be affected. So far, there have been no failures, but Honda has decided to act straight away as a precaution. It does not affect the models being sold in the United States, but in other news it would appear that U.S. dealer deliveries are now being delayed until mid-September at the soonest, due to claimed supply chain difficulties.

Well known British dealer and distributor Three Cross Motorcycles has been placed into administration - a pre-bankruptcy stage in the UK that allows businesses to restructure its debts and activities. Founded in 1978, the Ringwood, Hampshire based dealership has held the Triumph motorcycles franchise in Dorset since 1991 and began importing Peugeot scooters into the UK in 1995 - supplying a network of around 200 dealers. At various times Three Cross had also sold Cagiva, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Laverda, Moto Guzzi, Moto Morini, MV Agusta and Yamaha; the company says that after a restructuring exercise a short while ago, the coronavirus pandemic had left it with no further financial wiggle room.

Piaggio has patented 'Active Aero' - aileron-style winglets that should assist handling and grip - an evolution of the controversial tech seen in MotoGP. The patent (for winglets on either side that can move independently of each other) is seen in filing drawings on an MP3 but, of course, "relates to the field of two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles", so is clearly something that they must be eyeing for the Aprilia RSV4.

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

Yamaha

Yamaha Q1 2020 motorcycle net sales revenue -6.8%

Yamaha has announced consolidated business results for the first quarter of its new fiscal year (period ending March 31, 2020) with net sales for Yamaha of 395.9bn yen (a decrease of 33.5bn yen or -7.8% compared with the same period of the previous fiscal year), and operating income of 25.4bn yen (a decrease of 10.5bn yen or -29.2%).
"Net sales have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) pandemic since March, and therefore income has decreased due to the lower number of units sold in the Land Mobility Business and Marine Products Business.



"Operating income declined due to the impact of foreign exchange rates, a decrease in the number of outboard motor units sold in the Marine Products Business, and the impact of Yamaha Motor Robotics Holdings Co., Ltd. (YMRH), which became a subsidiary at the end of the second quarter of the previous fiscal year."

Motorcycles ("Land Mobility" Division)
Net sales were 260.3bn yen (a decrease of 19.1bn yen or -6.8 % compared with the same period of the previous fiscal year), and operating income was 8.6bn yen (a decrease of 0.7bn yen or -7.4%).
Unit sales of motorcycles in developed markets decreased due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic from March, resulting in a decline in sales. However, the deficit was narrowed due to an increase in unit production at headquarters and in Europe, along with improvements in the model mix for Europe.
In emerging markets, sales and income from motorcycles have declined due to factors such as the deterioration of the model mix in Vietnam, decreased demand due to the introduction of new emission regulations in India, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Philippines have also seen declines due to the effects of its volcanic eruption and the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, there was an overall decrease in sales and income in the Land Mobility Business.
Yamaha says that the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic had already led it to withdraw its forecasts of February 12 and make a new announcement when circumstances permit. Meanwhile, in terms of the interim dividend at the end of the second quarter (June 30, 2020), the board of directors has decided to forgo the dividend in view of the market environment and the business conditions of the company. With regard to the undecided end-of-term (December 31, 2020) dividend forecast, they will make a new announcement when circumstances permit.





Meanwhile, in other news…
Manufacturing at the Motori Minarelli engine factory in Calderara di Reno, Italy, and the MBK Industrie assembly plant in Saint Quentin, France, recommenced on May 4th, having been temporarily suspended on March 16th.
Eric de Seynes, Yamaha Motor Europe President and CEO, said: "The reopening of both motorcycle, scooter and engine production plants we have in Europe is positive news within a very complicated period we are experiencing. It has been possible thanks to the cooperation with all parties involved, which I sincerely want to thank."
In Japan, all Yamaha business locations, factories and offices had an additional temporary closure at the same time for the five days between June 8 and 12, having already determined additional suspensions to operations for ten working days from May 25 to June 5 at some motorcycle-related production sites.
Yamaha Motor Europe has also announced a three-month extension on all factory warranties and official extended warranties that expired between 1st March and 31st May 2020.
Additionally, the Yamaha NIKEN motorcycle fleet provided by Yamaha Motor Europe to support cycling's three Grand Tours - the Giro d'Italia, Tour de France and La Vuelta - has been released to the Red Cross in Italy to help mobility as they continue to respond to the health emergency.

Mupo

Mupo Through-Rod cartridge technology for CBR1000RR-R SP1

Developed initially for the 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R SP1, Mupo Suspension's new CSP30-R is an evolution of the new Through-Rod Technology cartridge that was introduced at EICMA in 2019.
Thanks to experience gained on the track, not least with Michele Barro (Team Barni), in the 2019 Italian Superbike championship - his fourth consecutive championship win - a new bypass system has been added to their 2019 Through-Rod system for improved fluid dynamics - delivering a "more homogeneous and progressive damping". 


The new piston also further improves the sensitivity of the damping cycle and the feedback that the cartridge gets from the tyre, giving the rider even more safety and feeling in the front axle. The introduction of new bushings and an updated sealing system is said to ensure maximum smoothness and reliability in all driving conditions.
Described as the result of over ten years of development by its in-house R&D department, Pirro Mupo's Through-Rod Technology has been tested, among others, by Alex Barros in Brazil and in a number of leading and demanding series and race environments in other countries.
Leonardo Borghi, Mupo's Director of International Sales, 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 it is the most advanced front suspension technology on the market. We expect the same positive response to our newly developed CSP30-R."
Through-Rod 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 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.

MUPO S.R.L
www.mupo.it

WRS

WRS shows versatility with Africa Twin screen
Although not able to indulge the company's passion for racing during the lockdown, Pesaro, Italy based screen manufacturer WRS hasn't been asleep.
The rapid success it has enjoyed since being founded by CEO Nicolas Zavoli in 2009 has been driven in no small part by technical partnerships and sponsorships with major teams such as Pramac Racing (Ducati MotoGP), BMW Motorrad official team (WorldSBK), Team SIC 58 Squadra Corse (Moto3) and Reale Avintia Racing Team with Johann Zarco and Tito Rabat. 



The company has invested heavily in cutting-edge technologies, creating a dedicated design team and a production department with a reputation for precision and quality. "We combine new technologies for design and development with the use of certified materials with the best parameters of resistance and transparency," says Nicolas.
"All our products are designed with the utmost attention to detail and checked one by one to give our clients a product of the highest quality with 100% 'Made in Italy' precision."
Made in high quality acrylic (Plexiglas PMMA) to guarantee excellent "transmittance" (ability to pass the light) and correct optical clarity, "they are safe and on impact can absorb the energy by breaking, but not shattering like glass - our designs are so finely tuned that whether a high or a low design, we gain optimum protection from wind and rain - the basis of our designs have a more dynamic line that protects most of the body from the air, but leaves the face uncovered".
Proof that the lockdown hasn't been a slowdown for Nicolas and his team comes in the form of new screen designs for the Africa Twin - four applications for the 1100 L and four for the Adventure.

WRS SRL

www.wrs.it

Forbikes

FK Visors compatible with Momo Helmets

The popular and respected FK Visors programme was created as a brand of Forbikes S.r.l., a leading Italian accessory vendor, and is one of the leading independent motorcycle helmet visor producers.




Made to deliver the best possible quality and optical purity standards, 30 years of experience go into every FK visor - and one of the latest helmet brands for which FK visors are available is MOMODESIGN.
FK takes care of the entire visor production process for the helmet manufacturer - from technical specification and design to the mould, testing of prototypes and then the final product.
The branded visor compatible with MOMODESIGN helmets is available in eight colours: transparent, dark smoke, silver mirror, blue mirror, red mirror, gold mirror, pink mirror and green mirror.
The mirroring has a water-repellent treatment and is a non-homogeneous multilayer which allows the presence of different colours on the visor while maintaining a predominant colour on the others. It is made using an 80% smoke material that guarantees vivid colours.


On the outside the FK visor has an anti-scratch treatment ensuring transparency and durability. All FK visors are Made in Italy "combining technology and craftsmanship. The artisan workmanship is an important step in our production process, but we also use the most advanced technology to ensure millimetric precision".
The visor for MOMODESIGN helmets has a thickness of 1.5 mm and is produced in high quality polycarbonate. The rubber gasket around the perimeter of the visor ensures that no air or water can penetrate.

FORBIKES SRL
www.fkvisors.com

Wednesday 17 June 2020

INTERMOT

IVM and Koelnmesse cancel INTERMOT 2020

Koelnmesse, the international exhibition centre at Cologne, Germany (that organises the biennial INTERMOT expo for the German motorcycle trade association/IVM), has announced that it has had to cancel this year's planned INTERMOT expo in October.
Koelnmesse stated that it "took this decision not least in the interest of the health of exhibitors and visitors. In contrast to trade fairs with a B2B orientation, major events such as INTERMOT draw tens of thousands of private visitors on all days of the trade fair; the hall space is limited and the time available is short.
"Spatial proximity and the shared experience of the trade fair form an integral part of the character of this event. At this point in time, the specifications currently in effect that have been issued by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI - the German government health institute), policy-makers and the public authorities cannot be met at major events. This is compounded by uncertainties on the part of numerous customers and the complicated travel situation".
The next INTERMOT will be 5-9 October 2022 in Cologne. "We regret that the overall situation leaves us no other choice".
Like all exhibition organisers throughout the world, Koelnmesse is aware that 2020 is clearly going to prove to be a watershed year in terms of how consumer and B2B trade fairs and exhibitions are operated.
 

5-9 October 2022

They went on to say that in future, such events "will incorporate more hybrid elements – to supplement the on-site experience with added digital reach. All stakeholders involved now have enough time to prepare accordingly for the next INTERMOT in Cologne, and to make it, once again, the meeting place of the international motorcycle community.
"We have hosted digital formats, in planning, that will present vehicle manufacturers' world premières for the 2021 season, together with innovations and industry news from the parts, accessories and apparel segments. There are also plans for a B2B talk format that will discuss 'opportunities after the coronavirus crisis'.
"All of the digital INTERMOT events are scheduled for the end of 2020 and will be broadcast as news streams to the global motorcycle community".
The news follows the decision by the MCIA, the motorcycle industry trade association in the UK, to cancel the 'Motorcycle Live' event at Birmingham in the UK in November - a popular show that regularly attracts some 100,000 motorcycle fans and acts as a debut opportunity for motorcycle manufacturers to showcase their upcoming new models.
As at the time of the INTERMOT announcement there had already been widespread expectation that ANCMA, the trade association in Italy, would announce cancellation of EICMA (November 2020), with the next show planned for November 2021.
There had been some industry debate that EICMA might stage a one or two-day dealer/vendor only expo (for European trade visitors only), but market reaction to the idea has not been universally positive.

German new registrations

Germany: motorcycles +6.33% in May

Conclusive evidence that Germany's success in protecting its population from the coronavirus pandemic has translated into also protecting the German economy comes in the form of the latest data from the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany.


New registrations for May are up by +6.33% at 14,524 units for the month and are now 'only' - 10.75% YTD at 56,867 units.
The registration statistics in Germany for 2020 so far have been remarkable compared to Europe's other 'Big Five'. Having been +37.14% (4,446 units) in January and -3.98% in February (9,252 units), motorcycle registrations were -18.70% in March (16,581 units) and -28.14% (14,524 units) in April, but have now started to recover spectacularly - suggesting that, so far, the demand hasn't gone away and that consumers will buy when they judge the moment is right.
Indeed, in total PTW terms, it looks very much like the theory that the urban mobility and isolation messages that PTWs have in their favour are being taken up by commuters.
Total PTW registrations in May in Germany were +23.39% at 24,433 units of all kinds for the month and are now running at just -2.97% (85,151 units) for the YTD.
In market share terms, BMW remains 'Top Dog' in its home market with a 24.39% share YTD (13,868 units sold and six models in the top 20), followed by Kawasaki, Honda, KTM and Yamaha.
The top selling model was BMW's R 1250 GS (4,783 units YTD), followed by the Kawasaki Z900, Z650, Yamaha MT-07 and KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC.
Last year saw the German motorcycle market grow by +4.38% to 113,039 units, with PTW sales growing by +6.53% to 165,311 units.

MCIA

'Motorcycle Live' in UK postponed to 2021

The MCIA, the motorcycle industry trade association in the UK, has confirmed ("with regret") that this year's 'Motorcycle Live' (intended to be held in November 2020 at the NEC Birmingham, UK) has been postponed until 20-28 November 2021.


"Following an extensive and detailed consultation with the major stakeholders of 'Motorcycle Live', the MCIA Board of Directors has agreed to postpone this year’s show. The decision has not been taken lightly and has been exclusively based on our concern for public safety and the wellbeing of our industry colleagues."
Managing Director of 'Motorcycle Live', Finlay McAllan said: "Motorcycle Live is all about audience interaction, fun and social engagement. This is graphically demonstrated by the number of features and visitor activities, and to diminish that experience, while potentially placing visitors and staff at risk, would be irresponsible and socially unacceptable."

MotoGP

MotoGP schedule to resume at Jerez on July 19

An 18-race 2020 MotoGP Championship series is now confirmed to get back underway, with 17 more races now planned after the one round only held so far this year (Qatar, March 8).
It will start with consecutive weekends in Spain (19 and 26 July) at the Circuito de Jerez Angel Nieto - the first two of six races in total now slated for Spain this year - before heading to Brno in the Czech Republic (Aug 9) and Austria (Aug 16).
This latest (June 11) revised MotoGP plan will see 13 races held in Europe out of a maximum of 17 new races in total. It is hoped that the series will be able to head for 'international' venues from November, starting with a US GP at the Austin, Texas Circuit of The Americas after the final race in Europe at Valencia on November 15. 



 

That would theoretically be followed by three more races outside of Europe - Argentina, Thailand and a potential season finale at Malaysia, Australia, Japan and Silverstone, UK, having all been definitely cancelled until 2021.
However, Dorna are committed to the series finishing no later than December 13, which would mean racing in USA, Argentina, Thailand and Malaysia on four consecutive weekends. So the speculation is that at most there will only be two or three races outside Europe, at best, and maybe even none at all. Dorna says it will confirm all final dates no later than July 31st.
All dates, events and the eventual attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding governments and authorities.
Having been postponed at Qatar in March, there will be 14 Moto2 and Moto3 races.
There are now seven FIM Enel MotoE World Cup races planned for 2020, at five events. The Energica Ego Corsa riders will get their season start at Jerez on July 19 and then again on July 26, racing will resume on September 13 at Misano (San Marino GP weekend) before the first two double headers the following weekend (19 and 20 September) when the Emilia Romagna MotoGP is also at Misano.
The series will then wrap up with another double header at LeMans (October 10 and 11) on the weekend of the Shark Helmets Grand Prix de France.
Following the first and so far only race, in Australia at the end of February, there is so far no sign of the 2020 World Superbike Championship getting back underway, with Kawasaki's five time world champion Jonathan Rea seeking to extend his record-setting winning streak.

 
Inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic


However, the inaugural 2020 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup has been cancelled until 2021. Devised for riders from twelve years of age, it had been slated to run alongside eight rounds of the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2020, following a collaboration between Yamaha Motor Europe, FIM Europe and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO), supported by JiR (Japan Italy Racing).
Designed to provide "an ideal, cost-effective first step onto the world stage, with each entrant provided with Yamaha’s race-winning R3 bike, as well as Pirelli tyres, coaching and technical assistance, full race kit and paddock attire", Yamaha says it is fully committed to running the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU FIM European Cup at its full 36-grid capacity during the 2021 season.

Honda

Honda
 
At a corporate level year on year, Honda Motor Co. Ltd. revenues fell -6.03% from 15.89tn yen to 14.93tn yen (for year ended March 31st, 2020). Along with an increase in the cost of goods sold, this contributed to a reduction in net income from 610.32bn yen in 2018/2019 to 455.75bn in 2019/2020, a -25.33% decrease.
Operating profit fell by -12.8% to 633.6bn yen. Earnings Per Share (EPS) were 260.13 yen, a decrease of 85.86 yen from the previous year. The COVID-19 impact in Q4 (March mostly) pushed Honda corporately into an operating loss for the fourth quarter of its 2019/2020 full year.


Takahiro Hachigo, President and Representative Director for Honda Motor Co., Ltd.: "Whether it be on the medical front line, or supporting our daily lives through various services, many people are giving their all in these difficult times."

Total sales revenue from its motorcycle business was broadly flat compared to year ended March 2019 at 2,059,335m yen for 2019/2020 for a segment profit of 285,668m yen.
In unit sales terms, Honda sold 205,000 units in Japan in 2019/2020 (-2k); 239,000 units in Europe (-10k); 330,000 in North America (+29k) and 17.2 million in Asia (-962k) for a worldwide total of 19.340 million
(- 898k/-4.4%).
Referencing the health emergency, Takahiro Hachigo, President and Representative Director for Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is quoted as saying: "Honda would like to express its deepest sympathy and condolences to the victims and families of COVID-19 all around the world and the sincere hope for the earliest possible recovery for all those who are now fighting infection.
"Whether it be on the medical front line, or supporting our daily lives through various services, many people are giving their all in these difficult times.
"Honda too, by way of our products, technologies and people, will undertake everything that we can do by globally uniting our associates from all over the world while staying close to our local communities.
"We hope to continue striving with even more effort, knowledge and courage so as to bring the earliest possible end to this challenging time and open up a bright future. Let us overcome this crisis together."

Honda scooped a 'Red Dot 2020' award in the 'Smart Product' category for the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade S. For all the anticipation for the new Fireblade to hit showroom floors, con rod issues have forced an early-stage recall and, in the US, "supply chain problems" have delayed the launch until at least mid-September.

In other news, Honda has announced that Android Auto will be integrated with the current-model Gold Wing, with a software update due for release in June.
The company has also scooped a 'Red Dot 2020' award in the 'Smart Product' category for the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP - the latest machine to carry the Fireblade nameplate, which was first introduced in 1992. "It has always set the benchmark for how a litre-class super sports machine should handle on public roads, but for the new 2020 model - developed under the tagline of 'Born to Race' - an unwavering focus on circuit performance came hand in hand with a radical new design and the most powerful inline-four cylinder engine Honda has ever made."
Satoshi Kawawa, General Manager Motorcycle Design Division, said: "The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP was developed to win races in any category - from club racing to international competition. Its design and styling are led by that philosophy - with every part and every detail designed with speed, performance and aerodynamic efficiency in mind. We're honoured that it has been recognised with such a prestigious award."
Honda has been running several online features to keep fans engaged. 


The Honda Collection Hall

The twelve CB1000R custom builds that were seen at last year's Wheels & Waves at Biarritz, France, to mark 50 years of inline-fours are online with customers invited to rank all twelve on a new multi-language 'Honda Customs' webpage and share their choice via social channels, with a free wallpaper download of their top bike for desktop or mobile.
"The Honda CB1000R, flagship of the Neo Sports Café range, has proven itself to be the perfect canvas for custom builders across Europe. Among the twelve CB1000Rs are the Africa Twin-inspired 'CRF1000 Africa Four', the Monkey bike homage 'Monkey Kong' and the 'Alfredo' tribute to classic Freddie Spencer CBs of yesteryear.
Honda also has a 360 degree virtual tour of the three level Honda Collection Hall (HCH) at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit in Japan available online - the HCH hosts the largest collection of products developed by the company, with over 300 models on show.
Opened in 1998 to commemorate Honda's 50th anniversary, motorcycle highlights on display include the CB750 - the world's first mass-produced four-cylinder motorcycle - the oval-pistoned NR, and the six-cylinder RC166 ridden to Isle of Man TT victories by Mike Hailwood.
Also online is a 'Honda Origins, History and Values' presentation in animated manga comic format that retraces the life of company founder Soichiro Honda through an animated series combining Japanese-style manga cartoon drawings, audio and historic photographs. The audio-visual journey from the beginnings of Honda through to its achievements and legacy has six episodes, each lasting between 10 and 20 minutes.


The twelve CB1000R custom builds from last year's Wheels & Waves at Biarritz, France, can be seen at hondacustoms.com







BMW

BMW

Having posted 175,162 global customer deliveries in 2019, for Q1 this year (to March 31st 2020) the company says it shipped 34,774 units (-9.9% from Q1 2019), though at approximately € 557m for the quarter, revenue from motorcycle sales was down by around -5%. Some € 72 m motorcycle sector operating profit was off by around -19% for a segment margin of around 13% (down from 15% for Q1 2019). "Motorcycles segment deliveries over the twelve-month period are now expected to be significantly below the previous year's level". The EBIT margin is forecast to be within a range of 3% and 5%.
According to a May 6 news release the BMW Group believes it is well positioned to respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 emergency - "quite clearly, the situation remains serious and market forecasts are subject to constraints under these circumstances," said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, in Munich. "We are gradually ramping up our production again according to demand in each market. However, we are monitoring developments extremely closely to be able to respond with maximum flexibility. We are keeping a tight rein on inventory levels because liquidity has absolute priority in this situation."
BMW Motorrad has announced that it is extending the warranty on its branded motorcycle helmets to 5 years, from 2 years, effective the start of 2020.

Hevik

'Scirocco' jacket

'Scirocco', a new short jacket from Hevik, is designed to cope with high temperatures and humidity. It has large areas of breathable mesh, but still provides ample protection.
The outside polyester fabric has large mesh areas on the chest, the back and inner sections of the sleeves that keep the body ventilated. Safety is provided by the standard CE protectors on shoulders and elbows and the back protector pocket (the Hevik HFB protector level 2).
Further features include a Neoprene collar trim with comfortable button fastening, a jacket-trouser fastening system, strap adjustments at the wrists and reflective inserts on the shoulders. Front closure is by zip and there are five pockets. It is available in separate cuts for men and women. The jacket is available in various colourways, black/neon yellow, grey/neon yellow and black for men, and in black/neon yellow and grey/pink and black for women.
The garment is certified according to harmonised prEN 17092-4:2018 class "A".

HEVIK
www.hevik.com

PBR

PBR - 'Black & Gold' sprocket and EK chain kits

Italian transmission specialist PBR (near Bologna) sells all three of the key transmission components - the ones subjected to the greatest stress and wear - the front and rear sprockets and, of course, the chain.



One of its great successes has been with the application-tuned matched kits they offer dealers and, seen here, is a new for 2020 street transmission kit, the 'Black & Gold', which is said to include the best of all three components.
The 'Black & Gold' EK QX-Ring SRX2 offers "exceptional on-road performance and is EK Enuma's top model. The Japanese manufacturer's brand is a guarantee of quality and reliability and has been known for decades for its quality and cutting-edge transmission chain manufacturing technology.
"EK Enuma chain holds many of the most important patents in the motorcycle chain market and the Quadra X-Ring technology reduces friction while significantly increasing the transmission contact duration - not an easy combination to achieve.
"The lightened plates improve performance and the 'Black & Gold' bi-colour format is recognised worldwide as a quality hallmark."


The anti-corrosion black PBR C45T rear sprocket is precision-manufactured in zinc-coated carbon steel and is PBR's top rear sprocket for street, naked and touring motorcycles, developed in collaboration with several leading MotoGP and Superbike teams.
High-frequency induction hardening makes the sprocket teeth very strong and ensures the optimum chain contact endurance - the duration is guaranteed for over 25,000 km if the correct maintenance is carried out after each 1,000 km. PBR says that its duration is 300% greater than normal (not tempered) rear sprockets.



Finally, completing the kit, the RSS front sprocket (Rubber Sprocket System) is manufactured in tempered steel with an extremely high-strength rubber insert for "extraordinary fluidity and quietness".
"The rubber lasts a very long time, and the strength and quality of the material used prevent the problems sometimes encountered with the glue when lower grade materials are used, preserving the same consistent performance and reliability during its extensive lifetime even after many thousands of kilometres."
The PBR 'Black & Gold' kit is available for all sport, street and Enduro/off-road motorcycles of middleweight and large capacity.
Founded in 1969, PBR says it was the first specialist (rear and front) motorcycle sprocket manufacturer in Italy, specialising in very short lead-time production with applications for more than 3,368 models in its catalogue, with nearly 10,000 items in stock and ready to ship at any time.
With more than 50 years of product testing and a long series of world championships won in Motocross, MotoGP, Superbike and SuperSport, PBR's race pedigree goes deep, developing a new kit with a special 428 chain pitch and creating a new rear sprocket in titanium for its MotoGP teams.
"It's not only about racing though," says PBR. "The 'trickle down' has meant a leading position among transmission component suppliers for street and off-road riders worldwide and OEM sprocket contracts with many leading OEMs, including KTM, Husqvarna, Aprilia, Piaggio, MV Agusta, Fantic and Sherco."

PBR SPROCKETS
www.pbr.it

Thursday 11 June 2020

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italy - May 2020 motorcycle registrations -11.35%

After being -95.85% in April, with just 526 new motorcycles registered in Europe's largest market, the latest new motorcycle registration statistics (for May) available from ANCMA, the motorcycle industry trade association in Italy (the owner of EICMA), make extraordinarily good reading in the context of the year so far!
May motorcycle registrations in Italy were "only" down by -11.35% with 11,150 new models being registered - an exceptionally fast and dramatic response to a process of lockdown easing that really only started in the second week of May.


After the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic started to show dramatically in the March registration numbers (-69.18%, 3,855 units), the year to date market performance in Italy, for motorcycles, has recovered to -40.25% at 31,205 units registered - with at least 15,000 of those registrations coming in January and February, when a good start to 2020 saw January at +3.13% and February at +12.70%.
In total PTW terms (Powered Two-Wheelers), May was -10.35% (25,660 units; -96.98% in April 2020) and is now -38.61% YTD at 67,802 units registered (by May 2019 the YTD in Italy was at +7.39%/110,443 units). Scooter registrations for January to May were -40.25% at 31,205 units.
The top selling motorcycles in Italy YTD have been the BMW R 1250 GS Enduro (1,329 units YTD), followed by the Honda Africa Twin (1,154 units), BMW R 1250 GS Adventure (938 units), Yamaha Tracer 900 (854 units) and the Benelli TRK 502/502X (807 units YTD).
For the record, in 2019 the Italian market was again Europe's largest at +6.26% in motorcycle registration terms (98,883 units) and +5.65% in total PTW terms at 231,937 units.

Energica

Energica - production restarted, new dealers appointed and FIM Enel MotoETM World Cup update

Having closed its production department from March 25th to April 28th, Italian electric sportsbike manufacturer Energica is reporting +68% more growth in dealer and importer deliveries "than in the same period last year".
The company says that it has seen a 72% increase in its number of dealers, with additions to its network already this year including new partners in Germany, Indonesia, Taiwan, France, UAE and in the United States, including Bill Nation's Pro Italia Motors at Glendale, California, right at the heart of the all-important greater Los Angeles area market, said to be the third largest metropolitan economy in the world.



California has always been one of the largest motorcycle-owning markets in USA, with some of all American riders to be found there. Energica says that six out of ten of the electric vehicles in the U.S. are driven by Californians, which today are 5.5% of all registered passenger vehicles in the state, versus less than 2% for the country overall. 
EV sales in California consistently outpace every other state in the USA and are growing more quickly than conventional cars.  2019 saw EV sales in the U.S. drop by -9%, but they grew in California by +5%, where conventional new ICE sales have actually declined by -5.5%.
California has almost 26,000 EV charging outlets – a third of all those in the United States - and is investing $2.1bn in expanding that network to support an ambitious goal to replace over five million internal combustion vehicles in the state with electric by 2050.
"California is where our U.S. headquarters is based precisely because this is the epicenter of new technology and electric, and also the largest and most vital motorcycle market.  We know that with these two latent strengths side by side, it's just a matter of time before the impetus towards electric cars translates to motorcycles," stated Stefano Benatti, CEO, Energica Motor Company Inc. "And if this is true for California, it's even more so for Southern California and specifically Los Angeles."
Giacomo Leone, Energica Sales & Field Marketing Director, says: "Production continues at a rapid pace to quickly satisfy both European, US and Asian customers. We continue to receive new orders, and this is a sign of an increasing attention to electric mobility, especially in territories such as the United States and in countries such as the Netherlands, Germany and France. ACEM data on electric/hybrid vehicles are the only positives in the first quarter in Europe in comparison to the declining numbers of all traditional engines."
Energica is the 'spec bike' provider for the FIM Enel MotoETM World Cup - the EGO CORSA having proved itself in the 2019 inaugural season, this will be the second of a three-year initial contract with Dorna, organisers of the MotoGP series.
The plans for 2020 have, of course, been turned upside down by the COVID-19 emergency, but although no formal announcement about racing starting up again has yet been made (indeed races continue to be lost, with Britain, Japan and Australia the latest cancellations), hopes are high.
It had been planned to stage six races in 2020, at five different venues, but as things at the beginning of June stand, there will be five races at three venues.
The series will start at the Red Bull Ring during the Austrian MotoGP weekend, August 18, then move on to the San Marino MotoGP at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli on September 13 for two races, with two more when the series wraps up for 2020 at the Valencia GP (Circuit Ricardo Tormo) on November 29.

Betamotor

Betamotor 2021 – 300 cc XTrainer 2T

Italian Enduro specialist Betamotor managed to avoid shutting down completely during the COVID-19 emergency - they remained open for spare parts and warranty support with just a few people present physically in the factory.


Motorcycle production stopped at the end of March, but was able to start up again at the beginning of May. Therefore, the factory is currently open, though working at a reduced capacity in order to respect the social distancing requirements.
The 2019 triple World Champions - Enduro 3, Steve Holcombe; Enduro GP and Enduro 1, Brad Freeman - have announced that it is "time to start doing Enduro again" with the new 300 cc ST XTrainer as a teaser for the MY2021 line-up.
"The mix of ingredients remains what has made this model the most innovative motorcycle in the segment in recent years and the ideal tool for making a 360-degree Enduro. The XTrainer’s outstanding qualities, such as excellent engine response and top-notch rideability, provide high performances while at the same time being easy to handle, ensuring riders can cope confidently with whatever the situation demands."
An ideal entry into the world of Extreme Enduro, it features pliable and linear power delivery, making it extremely rider-friendly, the countershaft reduces vibration, increases inertia and upgrades the power delivery curve, augmenting the rideability through all the engine power bands.
The Beta Progressive Valve allows "excellent engine performance throughout the rev range thanks to the easy external adjustment". It has a seat height lowered to 910 mm (compared to 930 mm in the RR range), low weight at just 98 kg, automatic oil injection (eliminating the need for a fuel-oil premix), soft tyres for better all-terrain grip and a mapping selector.

Stat Attack


At the end of April, the MCIA in the UK took the brave step of trying to forecast UK PTW sales for 2020. With Q1 having been -12.2% (March -21%), they guesstimated that Q2 would likely be down some -58%, but with Q3 showing +7.7% growth vs. 2019, and the full year -18.2% at 87,897 units compared to 107,408 in 2019.
 

The Executive Board of PIERER Mobility AG decided to temporarily suspend its share buyback programme with effect from April 7, 2020. In the period from October 22, 2019 to April 6, 2020, a total of 224,043 shares were repurchased via the stock exchange. This corresponds to around 0.99 percent of the company's share capital.

Ducati produced 13,395 units in Q1 this year (-17%), with the largest sector being Sport (SuperSport, Panigale) which accounted for 30% of production. Of those, Ducati delivered 9,585 units to customers (-24%), the largest sector being 2,894 Hypermotard and Multistrada models with Scramblers taking the biggest hit with a decline in demand of nearly 40% (1,765 units shipped, but 2,451 manufactured). Sales revenue was -23% at € 121 m for an operating loss of -€ 1m for the quarter.

Suzuki reported 242.6bn yen net sales revenue in its motorcycle business for Q4 of its 2019/2020 financial year (the period to march 31st 2020), down from 255.1bn for the year ago quarter (-4.9%) for a -81% segment profit (operating income) of 693m yen. For its fourth quarter, Suzuki sold 362,000 PTWs worldwide (plus 3,000 ATVs) for a -16.4% decline. Domestic sales were 11,000 units (-16.7%); Europe 9,000 units (-11.9%); North America 7,000 units (-14.6%) and Asia 365,000 units (-16.4%). On a consolidated net sales basis for the full year ended March 31st, 2020 Suzuki sold 1,410,000 PTWs (-4.3%). Domestic sales were 50,000 units (-6.4%); Europe 39,000 units (-12.5%); North America 33,000 units (-10.9%) and Asia 1,121,000 units (-4.3%).

Poland

New motorcycle registrations for April were -48.40% (1,613 units) having been -37.73% for March (1,350), and are -28.52% YTD (4,751 units). Poland is a big market for imported used motorcycles, so new units together with used machines receiving their first registration in Poland is always an interesting metric - April saw combined unit registrations of 5,916 (-54.53%) with YTD at 21,165 units (-30.44%).

Sweden
New motorcycle registrations in April were only modestly down by -4.86% at 1,958, with YTD at +9.56% (4,586 units). This reflects the very different coronavirus response in Sweden. In total PTW terms, April was essentially flat (+0.75%) at 3,775 new registrations and is +18.42% YTD (8,584 units).

Switzerland
New motorcycle registrations were -34.54% in April (2,611 units) and are -19.03% YTD (8,149 units). In total PTW terms, the Swiss market was worth 3,863 units in April (-37.47%) and is -21.61% YTD (12,336 units). Yamaha is market share leader, ahead of Honda, BMW, Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson. The top-selling model YTD has been the Kawasaki Z 900, followed by the Yamaha MT 07, BMW R 1250 GS, Kawasaki Z 650 and Yamaha Ténéré 700.

Austria
Motorcycle registrations for Q1 were -46.29% at 1,876 units; total PTW registrations were 4,438 units (-42.22%).

Japanese Made Motorcycle Exports to Europe
Exports of Japanese made motorcycles to Europe (250 cc+) by the 'Big-Four' were +3.67% in March (20,769 units), having been up in January (+26.57%) and February (+15.69%), and were running at +14.68% for the year to March 31st (65,744 units). Worldwide exports are -4.62% (96,164 units) for Q1. In total PTW terms, Japanese made machines exported to Europe were +14.96% YTD (66,862 units); worldwide they were -7.24% at 110,876 units.

Zard

Zard for the full Royal Enfield range

Described by Italian performance exhaust specialist Zard as "the perfect combination between craftsmanship and technology", the full range of Zard exhaust products for current Royal Enfields is "inspired by the past, but looking to the future".
For the Continental GT and Interceptor 650 the company has a full kit and a 2-into-2 full kit "inspired by American Flat Track racing".


Full flat kit for Interceptor 650 and Continental GT

Made in AISI 304 stainless steel with removable dB killers (in racing version only), Zard says its version saves 12 kg compared to the comparable factory system, delivering a "significant" increase in horsepower and torque compared to the OEM system, and an "astonishing and cool sound".


Penta low mount slip-on for Himalayan

Also seen here, Zard slip-ons are available in race and Euro 4 homologated versions in mirror polished AISI 304 stainless steel. The Zard systems weigh in at 4.2 kg compared to 10 kg for the factory design they replace.


Bullet Trials 500

For the Royal Enfield Himalayan the low mount version 'Penta' slip-on is made in AISI 304 stainless steel with removable dB killer and has an aluminium sleeve with carbon end cap. The weight is 2.2 kg compared to 4.9 kg for the factory original and a homologated version is on the way. The high mount 'Penta' weighs 2.8 kg compared to the stock 4.9 kg.
For the classic Royal Enfields the stainless steel slip-on with dB killer weighs 3.1 kg compared to 6.7 kg and 2.5 kg compared to 6.1 kg for the Bullet Trials 500.
The installation of Zard replacement exhausts for the Royal Enfield range do not require any modification to the ECU.
www.zardexhaust.com


Classic
 

Galfer

Galfer - #BACKTOBRAKE

Spanish brakes specialist Galfer says it is in production, shipping and ready to return to the track just as soon as possible.
"The difficult historical and economic moment we find ourselves in as a result of COVID-19 is forcing the international two-wheel vehicle industry to take on the most difficult challenge in its history. It also compels us to deploy all the resources possible to make people aware of the vital importance of two-wheel vehicles at this time.



"Our restart anthem is #BACKTOBRAKE - it reflects our determination to return to pre-pandemic times just as soon as we can do so safely. All of those in the motorcycle industry who live on the passion and adrenaline that only our sport can provide us with are eager to get back on our two-wheelers (whether engine-driven, electric or pedal-powered) and we want this to make a difference both ethically, by ensuring compliance with the most basic rules of social distancing, and ecologically, by using a healthier and more sustainable way of getting around.
"The use of two-wheel vehicles (motorcycles and bicycles) has many advantages over four-wheelers and public transport, including:


  1. Safer and more hygienic means of transport in terms of virus spread, since it is easier to maintain a safe distance between people and you avoid the mass use of public transport.
  2. Less traffic congestion in big cities and reduced CO2 emissions.
  3. More efficient means of transport thanks to shorter travel times, low energy consumption and less space required for parking.

 "In a market such as Europe, the world leader in the manufacture of mopeds, motorcycles and accessories for two-wheeled vehicles, the aim of our #BACKTOBRAKE campaign is to spread a message of positivity and to invite people to put their two-wheelers to use again.
"The campaign is aimed at the large audience of user enthusiasts, fans, professional racers and our brand ambassadors. Today the world of cycling and motorcycling can, and must, become a collective symbol of the international restart. It is a challenge that we here at Galfer are ready to take on to play our part in".
www.galfermoto.com

Ognibene

Ognibene Off-Road transmission kit

Bologna, Italy based chain drive transmissions and motorcycle component specialist Ognibene has a full range of options specified, designed and manufactured for the very particular needs, stresses and dynamics of off-road power transmissions - "getting the power from the engine to the rear wheel on motorcycles that will spend all their time coping with the rugged terrain and special demands of off-road riding is a very particular science," says Sales Manager Federico Arbizzani.
"The demands on materials and manufacturing technology are tough in the off-road world, but we understand that, we recognise that, and are able to bring 60 years of experience to every component we make for off-road bikes. We are able to combine performance with durability and aesthetics."



Ognibene supplies a complete transmission kit composed of D.I.D chains and Ognibene gears (front and rear sprockets) that has been based on that experience and the expertise developed in supplying major global brands such as Kawasaki, KTM, Suzuki, Yamaha, Beta, Honda and Husqvarna.
For over 50 years, Ognibene Motorcycle has been an official distributor of D.I.D chains - products that "are known and valued by motorcyclists all over the world." The 520 ERT3 series, specific to Motocross, is the "lightest and most compact chain on the market", whilst the 520 ERVT series, developed for Enduro, is said to be "the chain whose X-ring is the most resistant to extreme conditions".
The Ognibene Motorcycle front and rear sprocket range features various tooth set-ups to suit the specifications of the rider, the bike and the course - "so as to overcome all situations". The front sprocket is constructed with SCM 420 or 25CrMo4 steel with a carburising treatment to improve durability and lightening holes to reduce weight and improve performance.
The 7075-T6 aluminium alloy rear sprocket with CNC machining and mud discharge enables optimum maintenance of the teeth. It is recommended for use on the most popular motorcycles and models and comes in different colours to match the OEM colourways.
Ognibene Motorcycle has also designed a specific product for lubrication of the transmission kit, especially indispensable in Motocross - the Ognibene chain lube off-road.
To go all the way in terms of a complete turnkey package solution, Ognibene TROFEO brake pads in sintered ceramic with 07 compound are resistant to high temperatures. Available for both front and rear, they are said to deliver excellent braking at high speeds, in high-temperature conditions and extreme terrain - Morgan Lesiardo and the KTM Racestore Max Bart Racing team chose to rely on these products in the MX2 World Motocross Championship.

OGNIBENE SPA
www.ognibenechaintech.it

DC AFAM

SHIDO dual battery chargers

Transmission and battery product specialist DC AFAM (Nazareth, Belgium) has completed the development of two new feature-rich IP 65 waterproof chargers with after-charge battery health check function. 


SHIDO DC 1.0


Product Manager Kjell Roels told IDN: "SHIDO dual battery chargers are unique charger tools – AFAM used all its 40+ years of motorcycle knowledge to develop new charging algorithms for both Lithium LiFePO4 and lead-acid batteries.
"The chargers feature a manual selection between Lithium LiFePO4 and lead-acid batteries, a battery recovery function for deeply discharged batteries, a maintaining mode with voltage checks every four hours and a battery health check."
The range consists of the SHIDO DC 1.0, which offers 1 Ah of output, weighs just 0.4 kg and is suited for all battery types, and the 0.6 kg SHIDO DC 4.0 top-of-the-range charger, with extra features including a 6 volt option, selection between 1 Ah and 4 Ah of output, specific AGM mode for sealed batteries and a digital screen with live voltage measurement. The charger can be used for motorcycle, power sports and car applications.

SHIDO DC 4.0

The versatile DC 1.0 offers 8-step charging for lead-acid batteries - detection, pulse, recovery, bulk charge, declining current, absorption, battery check and floating.
Kjell points out that fewer steps are required for lithium batteries, "as you cannot use the Pulse step on a lithium battery, as the higher voltages can damage the lithium battery, certainly when pulses go above 15.2V. Also, the floating mode (constant small current) in lead-acid mode is replaced by the monitoring mode, here the charger will perform the 4h interval checks."
"Users are not always sure which battery charger to use with their lithium batteries," said Kjell. "We have taken this uncertainty away and can now recommend a suitable charger with confidence. SHIDO dual battery chargers complete our wide range of lead-acid (NITRO) and lithium (SHIDO) battery products."

DC AFAM
www.afam.com
www.shido-batteries.com