Spanish motorcycle registrations

Spain: total PTW registrations -11.33% January - November

Having been +16.45% for July (23,793 units), +17.72% for August (13,742 units) and +4.82% for September (15,743 units), the latest data from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, put new motorcycle registrations down -17.52% (13,299 units) for October and -18.50% (10,725 units) for November.

In year-to-date terms, motorcycle registrations were running at 142,563 units for the eleven months to November 2020 (-13.57%). Moped registrations on the other hand have recovered and returned to growth at +10.07% YTD (18,963 units) to leave the total PTW market in Spain at -11.33% for the January to November period (161,526 units).
Jose Maria Riano, General Secretary of ANESDOR, stated: "The health situation has had logical consequences for the economy and for the PTW market in Spain. The period through the summer clearly demonstrated that ever more consumers are turning to two wheels for transport convenience, but with sales particularly badly hit in the primary population centres, the market is being negatively affected again."
The top selling models in Spain YTD have been the Kymco Agility City 125, Honda PCX 125 and Yamaha NMAX 125. Honda remains overall market share leader with 18.4% of the Spanish market (26,300 units), followed by Yamaha, Kymco, Piaggio, BMW and Kawasaki (7,332 units sold for a 5.1% share).

KTM

KTM 2021 model range news includes updates for the 2021 690 Enduro R and SMC R and a new model for 2021 - the KTM 890 Adventure.
Taking the 790 Adventure as a start-point, a new Euro 5 compliant 889 cc compact engine delivers 105 hp and 100 Nm of torque, with the 20% extra rotating mass of the crankshaft bringing "an improved feeling at low revs while augmenting the centralised sensation and traction through corners". There is a "refined and stronger clutch" and a new WP APEX rear shock with a new rebound damping adjuster and additional hand adjuster for spring preload.
There is 200 mm of suspension travel, and Dakar Rally-inspired ergonomics are said to "mean the bike is comparably slim, light and manageable with an accessible seat height, a low fender, a 20-litre tank and KTM MY RIDE navigation".

Tom Vialle won the 2020 FIM MX2 Motocross World Championship, becoming the ninth rider to win a championship title in the lower capacity class aboard a KTM 250 SX-F and securing KTM's fifth consecutive title in the category.

 

2021 890 Adventure - a 700 run limited edition Rally spec version sold out within 48 hours.

On-road ergonomics include Adventure-spec tyres, a full-size TFT dashboard, 'cornering' ABS, motorcycle traction control and motor slip regulation, a seat that is adjustable in two heights and a strong yet lightweight subframe for pillion or baggage.

690 Enduro R: 74 hp/73.5 Nm torque - "a slim and maneuverable machine" with lean angle sensitive 'cornering' ABS, off-road ABS, traction control and sensitive motor slip regulation.

In race news, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing's Tom Vialle has been crowned 2020 FIM MX2 Motocross World Champion after winning on the 250 SX-F at the MXGP of Pietramurata in Arco di Trento, Italy, in early November. The 20-year old Frenchman is the ninth rider to win a championship title in the lower capacity class aboard a KTM 250 SX-F. It was KTM's fifth consecutive title in the category, with thirteen championship victories in seventeen years of MX2 competition.

690 SMC R: "takes the torque and pace of the LC4 into a pulse quickening Supermoto form" - chrome-molybdenum steel tubing chassis, WP APEX suspension, wide-ranging electronic ABS modes, Brembo M 4.32 monoblock caliper, 320 mm front disc (240 mm rear), cosmetic makeover, new specification catalytic converter - Euro 5 compliance for both the LC4-equipped machines; both models can be clicked into a 35kW power setting to meet A2 licence status.

In the United States, KTM dealers have been able to sell KTM branded factory replica electric balance bikes from the summer of 2020. Made by Harley-Davidson owned subsidiary StaCyc, they can be operated like a regular bicycle, then riders can graduate to a 3-level powered mode.
There are two versions - the 12eDrive features 12-inch wheels and a 13-inch seat height; the 16eDrive has 16-inch wheels and a 17-inch seat and a high-powered brushless motor. Both are said to offer a 45-60 minute charge time and 30 to 60 minutes of run time.

UK motorcycle registrations

UK: motorcycle registrations -6.68% January to November

According to the latest available data from the MCIA, the motorcycle industry trade association in the UK, the second wave coronavirus lockdown appears to have had an effect on the UK market in November, but at -2.36% (5,382 units) motorcycle registrations have not been hit as badly as may have been expecting - the UK market was -6.68% (89,497 units) for the first eleven months of 2020. 

Motorcycle registrations were +21.62% in October (7,882 units), having been +10.35% in September (13,384 units) and +31.87% in August (8,354 units).
In total PTW terms, YTD registrations are running at -5.76% (95,857 units), having been -1.26% in November (5,893 units). The small moped market in the UK has overtaken 2019 market performance at +9.26% (6,330 units) YTD.
Honda remained market share leader for November, followed by Lexmoto, Yamaha, KTM, Triumph, BMW and Kawasaki. The top selling Adventure Sport model was the Honda CRF 1100 Africa Twin; the top selling Scooter was the Yamaha NMAX 125; the top selling Sport/Touring model was the Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX; the top selling Touring model was the BMW R 1250 RT. The most popular sector of the UK market remains Naked style machines (29,481 units sold YTD).
By way of context - motorcycle registrations in the UK grew slightly in 2019, +0.72%, with 100,472 units sold. Along with Italy, France, Germany and Spain, the UK remains one of Europe's 'Big Five' markets (actually, the fifth largest) and between them they account for just over 80% of annual new registrations in Europe.

Gaerne

G.Aspen Gore-Tex and Fastback Endurance with ankle pivot system


Legendary Italian boot maker Gaerne's G.Aspen is a "comfortable and durable" every day and long-trip riding boot in premium full grain leather with Gore-Tex membrane for waterproofing and breathability. 

G.Aspen

Reflex inserts on the front and rear side give improved visibility and there are internal shin plates, malleolus reinforcement with rigid shell and PU reinforced shift pads. The side entry system has an elastic zip panel and Velcro for a customised fit. The exclusive rubber sole design has a specifically designed grip area for maximum stability and safety.
The Fastback Endurance has a "sleek new look", partially due to the exclusive Gaerne 'Wrap Around' ankle pivot system.

Fastback Endurance

"This new, lightweight feature allows the rider more ankle support while delivering a comfortable fit." By removing the first two new alloy buckles at the top, it is possible to make the opening wider to accommodate a bigger knee brace.
Additional features include a heavy duty burn guard, toe bumper and the trademark Gaerne sole.

GAERNE SPA
www.gaerne.com

Givi

Seatlock, the Tanklock for the saddle

The S430 Seatlock is a base with a universal retaining system that holds a bag on the passenger portion of the saddle with a flange mounting system (Tanklock or TanklockED system).

Designed for sports motorcycles and riders who ride more on their own, the S430 is adaptable to any motorcycle and can be put on and taken off in a few minutes without any tools. Eight of the twelve GIVI bags currently in the range are compatible with the S430, but not those with curved bases (ST603B, EA118, UT810 and XS320).
The S430's anti-scratch and non-slip rubber base does not damage the saddle and allows a stable and safe retaining system with adjustable straps provided. The Seatlock is also available in combination with a back plate for top cases (with the versatile M8A, M8B, M9A, M9B aluminium plates).

GIVI S.P.A.
www.givimot.it

Matris

Triumph suspension upgrades

Italian suspension specialist Matris has updated its product offers for current Triumph models, specifically for the Triumph "modern classics", the 2020 Street Twin 900 and Street Scrambler 900, and also offers some new model-specific applications for the MY2020 sport-naked Street Triple 765R-RS.

Street Triple 765R-RS

Based near Vicenza, the company manufactures a complete range of front fork hydraulic cartridge kits that allow full adjustment in compression, rebound and preload. The "quad valve" Matris fork kits, as usually, are plug and play, do not require any modification to the original forks and are 100% reversible.

2020 Street Twin 900

Also available is a complete range of rear twin sets for the classic bikes and monoshocks for the sport-naked. Matris rear shocks have adjustable compression, rebound, ride height and spring preload with precision settings to allow the rider to dial in the best comfort and handling for their riding style and needs.
To further improve performance, handling and safety, Matris SDK and SDR steering damper options are well known for their quality, stability and the control they give.


MATRIS S.R.L.
www.matrisdampers.com

Airoh

Airoh 'Strycker'

Italian helmet manufacturer Airoh (Locatelli Spa) has released a new off-roader, the 'Strycker', with a three-size HPC outer shell "to ensure the best possible fit".
Features include anti-allergenic, breathable and fully removable inner lining equipped with AEFR (Airoh Emergency Fast Release) and the company's "revolutionary" AMS2 (Airoh Multi-action Safety System).

This allows the management, channelling and reduction of the energy generated in angular impacts - statistically by far the most common kind of helmet impact. The state-of-the-art ventilation system features five air vents and two rear extractors, developed in response to the aerodynamic testing and development of the helmet shell shape.
This has been a big year for the Airoh brand in race terms, with Locatelli being a big supporter of racing right from its beginnings - especially of emerging riders.

Angela Locatelli told IDN: "From the beginning there was the will to get involved and help riders share our values, improving talent and, above all, supporting and sharing the real core passion for the sport.
"Our goal was and remains to contribute to help racers realise their dream. For this reason, we especially try to help the youngest, those who are taking their first steps in the world of competitions, to support and encourage them in achieving their objective, to make them become tomorrow’s champions."

All rights acknowledged

One such has been Airoh's support of rookie Andrea Locatelli, who took this year's World SSP Championship by a spectacular margin on the Bardahl Evan Bros. Yamaha YZF R6. In 2020 he won all but one race, and even then, it was only the weather that stopped him. He wrapped the title race up with some four races to go.
This year saw Airoh conquer no less than eight world titles in total - reaching 103 world titles in just 23 years.
"Our first world title was achieved in 2005 with a young Antonio Cairoli in MX2 class, from there, every year we have added to our prize list, collaborating with great riders and great people. To pass 100 world titles in such a short time is really incredible - but we are not going to stop there. We will continue to support the champions of today and tomorrow."

LOCATELLI S.P.A.
www.airoh.com

Twin Air

Replacement off-road seats

New for 2021 from Twin Air in the Netherlands are these OE replacement and upgrade complete Twin Air seats and seat covers for popular Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, KTM, Husqvarna and Beta models.

They are made from one piece of waterproof polyurethane foam for improved stiffness and with a pyramid structure to offer the rider additional grip and feel.

"These highly durable seats maintain their support over a longer period and are available in standard sizes. For KTM and Husqvarna off-road models we also offer complete seats with an extra +15 mm in height". Seats and covers are in black.

TWIN AIR
www.twinair.com

Gilles Tooling

Driven by function

In recent editions of IDN we showcased a selection of parts and accessories available from Luxembourg based manufacturer Gilles Tooling for Yamaha models - from the all-conquering Ténéré 700 to the popular and versatile Tracer 700.
Seen here is a selection of the parts available for Ducati's V4 Streetfighter - possibly the best looking and certainly the best performing sports naked on the planet.

The Streetfighter is the result of what Ducati calls the "Fight Formula": the Panigale V4 stripped of the fairings, with a high and wide handlebar, powered by a 1,100 cc Desmosedici Stradale delivering 208 hp and weighing in at just 178 kg - more like a "Light Fight Formula"!
Immediately successful, Ducati's take on the Streetfighter ethos is a distinctly contemporary and high-tech one, and for 2021 a new V4 S in 'Dark Stealth' (i.e. black) colour scheme is added to the gloriously traditional Ducati red - with the V4 engine now getting a Euro 5 makeover.
As masters of ergonomics and precision engineers to some of the finest race teams in the paddock, Gilles, quite rightly, thought its duty was to turn its gaze towards the Streetfighter and give it the Gilles treatment. Who says the best can't be even better?
This is just a selection of the parts designs available from Gilles for the Ducati Streetfighter. You can see the full range for this and all the leading models Gilles has products for, as well as a wide range of universal parts and accessory options, on the Gilles Tooling website, where regular updates are posted as the company's engineers turn their attention to other popular models throughout the year.

Race cover kit

These Gilles race covers for the V4 Streetfighter cover the pillion footpegs and licence plate bracket mounting points. "The function is always an important detail, as well as the look - our racing covers look great but, importantly, protect open mounting points against dirt and moisture".

Maximum performance clutch lever

 
A simple design and optimum handle length and shape for all applications. Double ball bearings instead of plain bearing bushings deliver superior precision and response, and the lever is foldable. Coloured inserts on the lever ends can be exchanged as required.

New generation rearsets

Gilles' new MUE2 rearsets are a completely new generation that "combine futuristic design with the highest quality and simplified adjustability of the footrest. The conversion to GP shifting style works by a simple swap of the gear lever arm, brake and shift levers come with double ball bearings for perfect 'play-free' lever function.  Black anodised with colour-contrasting adjusters, precision manufacturing and ergonomic design mean easier adjustability of the footrest position - using a combination of sliding and rotating single-point adjustment (five positions by sliding, four by rotation). The conversion to reverse switching is simply by turning the switch arm; the system is equipped with foldable notches; carbon heel guards ship with the controls".

Want to go wingless?

Then these easy to install little parts may be small but make a massive design change. This "wingless" kit allows the original winglets to be removed for a completely different look.

Shield brake lever guard

Mandatory for racing, lever guards are a massive safety enhancement. The main body of the shield brake lever guard is CNC-machined from high-end billet aluminium - the protector is made of resistant plastic. The combination of materials means a robust, stable product, but with the flexibility needed to absorb and deflect impact.


GILLES TOOLING GmbH
www.gillestooling.com

National Cycle

VStream options for C400X

Maywood, Illinois based windscreen specialist National Cycle has added these VStream screens for the BMW C400X - available in three sizes "for weather that's warm or cold and for riding that's spirited or sedate, there is a perfect VStream for every kind of rider".
VStream gets its name from its unique patented shape. The advanced "V" profile and dimensional contours push the wind vortex out and away from the rider’s helmet, resulting in a peaceful, quieter riding environment.

These windscreens are made from 3.0 mm Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate. This high-quality material, along with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, provides outstanding clarity, impact strength and scratch resistance unmatched by any windscreen maker worldwide.
"Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate is the material of choice for serious motorcycle riders. It is 10 times more abrasion resistant than FMR hardcoated polycarbonate, and 30 times more than windscreens made from commonly used acrylic or 'aircraft plastic'."
VStream Windscreens are easy to install and are protected by a 3-year warranty against breakage.

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.
www.nationalcycle.com

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italy - 2020 motorcycle registrations +41.14% for November

Having been +1.94% (6,502 units) in October, new motorcycle registrations in Italy for November were massively up at +41.14% (5,012 units).

This follows a market recovery that saw 6,663 units registered in August (+42.25%) and +25.96% for September (8,728 units). The latest data available from ANCMA, the motorcycle industry trade association in Italy (and the owner of EICMA), shows the statistical direction of travel as up since May -11.35%, with the Italian market at -6.33% (90,070 units) for the YTD.
Italy is an important scooter and moped market, so total PTW registrations (of all displacements and styles) is a telling sign of underlying market activity; having been -13.85% at 15,761 units for October, they were +19.93% at 11,001 units for November and are running at -6.58% YTD (210,981 units).
The top selling motorcycles in Italy YTD have again been the Benelli TRK 502/502X (3,513 units YTD), followed by the BMW R 1250 GS (3,054 units YTD) and the Honda Africa Twin (2,894 units). The top selling scooters remain the Honda SH 150, 125 and 300 range (in 1st, 2nd and 4th spots respectively), with the Piaggio Beverly 300 ABS in 3rd spot. Piaggio's Liberty 125 ABS is 5th, the Kymco Agility 125 R16 is 6th, with Yamaha's big TMAX scooter in 7th place, and the company's XMAX 300 in 9th behind the Honda Forza 300.
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.

Pierer Mobility

Pierer Mobility - Increases 2020 earnings forecast for a second time

The Board of Directors of Pierer Mobility AG has announced that "due to the continued positive global demand for powered two-wheelers (motorbikes and e-bicycles), we are again raising the revenue forecast for the 2020 financial year that we published in September 2020.

"For the 2020 financial year, annual Group sales are now expected to exceed € 1,500m. Due to the high demand, in the second half of 2020 we have largely made up for the lost production and sales volumes from the COVID-19 lockdown in the spring.

"We have generated sales of approximately € 900m. This means that turnover for the second half of the year will be more than +17% higher than in the same period of the previous year.
"With an expected EBIT of approximately € 100m for the 2020 financial year, the EBIT margin is above the published guidance range of 4-6 % of turnover. Free cash flow will be above € 130m and thus significantly above the last forecast".

Powersports Distribution Group (PDG)

PDG expands again

Headquartered at Breda in the Netherlands and founded in 2017, the Powersports Distribution Group (PDG) has made another play for growth in the UK market.
Describing itself as the fast growing motorcycle parts distributor, PDG has bought a third UK business - Neo Distribution (aka Putoline Distribution - not to be confused with the Dutch Kroon Oil owned Putoline brand).

The purchase of Neo Distribution follows the acquisition of Bradbury Brothers and Rob Hunter in 2019 - the combined company having been rebranded as Hoco Parts UK Ltd.
Neo/Putoline Distribution Directors John and Sally Hayden are quoted as saying: "We are delighted with this transaction and look forward to working together with our staff and the Hoco Parts UK team under the umbrella of Powersports Distribution Group."
Tom Beyers, CEO of parent company PDG, said: "We are very pleased to welcome Neo Distribution to the group and we look forward to further developing the company together with John and Sally. The acquisition of Neo Distribution is an important step in the further development of our Hoco Parts UK platform, which we are actively expanding with a well filled M&A pipeline still ahead of us."
Starting with leading Dutch distributor Hoco Parts, acquired from David O'Neill and colleagues in 2017, Torqx Capital Partners has deployed an aggressive 'Buy and Hold' M&A strategy that has seen them add vintage parts specialist CMS (Consolidated Motor Spares) and Motoria in the Netherlands, Arno van de Glind's Rino Trading and DC AFAM (both in Belgium) from German owner KettenWulf, and now three businesses in the UK market.
www.neodistribution.co.uk
www.powersportsdistributiongroup.com

Supersprox

Supersprox continues to back its race teams

European sprocket specialist Supersprox says that "despite a year of unprecedented challenges, motorcyclists have shown their resilience to the ever present COVID-19 restrictions. Motorcyclists find relief from the constant bombardment of COVID related news by getting out on their bikes".
Supersprox General Director 'DJ' Maughfling told IDN: "While commuting use has grown, and recreational off-road riding has still been mostly possible, the racing scene has been particularly badly hit in 2020. Many events were cancelled and championships have been shortened, in most cases to 50% of the original plan. 

"Through this, the teams and their sponsors have been pressed to find a compromise position. Supersprox supports several high-profile teams in street and off-road. We know that this is a year where we will lose out in the balance between sponsoring cost and promotional returns.

Tom Sykes' BMW WSBK

"Many of the 2020 sponsorship contracts that vendors have with teams were set up in pre-COVID times and don't reflect the new situation. We here at Supersprox are taking a pragmatic position though and honouring our side of the agreements. We understand that the teams are not able to meet their side because of this Force Majeure. While we hope that 2021 will be better, it seems unlikely to return to normal within the next six months, and even then only after significant distribution of vaccines."
Maughfling says that Supersprox will continue to support racing activity in the future. "We will go on despite the imbalance that presently exists. The motorcycle market will find a new position with teams and suppliers adapting - we all need the teams. Without racing, there cannot be product development. 

Tim Gajser – HRC MXGP

"Product development and technical superiority is what sets us apart from our competitors, but without the opportunity for continuous development through racing, none of us would be able to improve, to have great new products to offer our distributors and their dealers, and everything would come down to price.
"We understand that enthusiasts buy Supersprox, ask for Supersprox by name, exactly because of the high quality that we are able to maintain, and that comes from the innovative design and engineering that racing stimulates.
"We want to be able to keep that advantage, so we will stay with our race support plans!"
www.supersprox.com

Vertex Pistons

Vertex Pistons - "Undisputed World Champions again"

The list of successes for riders and teams winning in Motocross, Enduro and Supermoto World Championships in 2020 using Vertex pistons is impressive, seriously impressive!
Manufacturer VP Italy continues to consolidate its already strong reputation each year, with more than 20 world titles won in the 2020 racing season by riders and factories "who have relied on Vertex Pistons technology for their engine tuning". 

MX World Champion Tim Gajser

"In Motocross, Vertex Pistons was at the top in all categories starting with the premier class MXGP where, for the second consecutive year, we supported Tim Gajser of the Honda Racing Corporation factory team who became World Champion, and Jeremy Seewer as Vice-Champion.
"In MX2, Vertex Pistons crowned the podium with the 2nd place of Jago Geerts and the 3rd of Renaux Maxime and took the manufacturer's world title with the Yamaha factory.
"In the Women’s Motocross World Championship Vertex Pistons obtained a 2nd place supporting Nancy Van De Ven, who ended the season on equal points with the 2020 champion. 

MX Vice-Champion Jeremy Seewer

"But it is in the Enduro World Championship that Vertex Pistons really dominated, winning 18 world titles, including the entire podium in the Enduro GP, Enduro 1, Enduro 2, Enduro Junior and Enduro Junior 1 classes, the victory in Enduro 3 and the first two places in Enduro Junior 2".
In the Supermoto World Championship they won the world title with Thomas Chareyre riding a TM Racing factory bike, and in the Go-kart World Championship they achieved world titles in the KZ class with TM Racing factory and in the OK and OKJ classes with the Vortex factory.
"We are truly proud of what we achieved in the 2020 racing season," said Loris Iotti, CEO of Vertex Pistons, "a year where, despite all the difficulties and constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, our technicians continued to operate at the highest level, giving the teams the excellent level of support they have been able to come to expect from Vertex".
www.vertexpistons.com

Rainers Sports

Jordi Torres delivers MotoE Championship win for Rainers Sports

New race series come and go, but you know that a relatively new one has 'hit the spot' when it starts to become a viable platform for motorcycle parts and apparel vendors.
Kudos to well-known Spanish bootmaker Rainers Sports for its backing of Jordi Torres. The 33-year old Spaniard is a two-time winner of the Spanish Moto2 Championship and has previously competed in his native Supersport and Stock Extreme championships.  

945 GP-N, 999-R, 999 GP Carbono-N

The good news for Jordi and for Rainers is that riding for the Pons Racing 40 team is that this year he rode his Energica Ego Corsa to the championship win in the second year of the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, after a strong ride to sixth place at Le Mans earlier this year.
The 2019 champion Matteo Ferrari (Team Trentino Gresini MotoE) took a very close fight for second place in the 2020 series.

 

2020 FIM Enel MotoE World Cup Champion Jordi Torres Fernandez - a proud wearer of Rainers Sports boots.

In another sure sign that the MotoE series could be here to stay, in one form or another, the pandemic-permitting calendar for 2021 sees six events staging seven races at six different venues.
The championship will start on May 2nd, 2021 at Circuito de Jerez in Southern Spain and wrap up with a doubleheader at Energica's home track, the Misano World Circuit, on September 19th - the Energica EGO Corsa will again be the series 'spec' bike.
www.rainers-sports.com

Ducati

Ducati has announced results for what it says is its best third quarter ever "despite the complex global situation" - closing the quarter with 14,694 total motorcycles delivered worldwide.

Claudio Domenicali, CEO: "Although 2020 is a stormy year, the third quarter recorded the most positive performance ever."

September confirmed a recovery trend that began in June, with 4,468 motorcycles delivered to customers, of which the Panigale, Ducati Scrambler and Multistrada were the families with the best results. From the beginning of the year to the end of September, China, Switzerland and Germany recorded higher sales compared to the same period in 2019.
The company says that "thanks to the positive market trend, since June we started to recover the decline in performance recorded in the first months of the year, partially filling the sales gap compared to the previous year caused by the slowdowns that are affecting the whole world".

Diavel 1260 Lamborghini - just as the VAG board in Germany officially recognises that it may sell its Italian interests (Ducati, Lamborghini, Italdesign), this 630 unit limited edition special is described by Ducati as "the first motorcycle born from the collaboration between Ducati and Lamborghini - a Diavel 1260 inspired by the Lamborghini Sian FKP 37". It's a lovely bike (the car's not bad either) - but it is a good job Volkswagen never bought the Zanussi washing machine company!

The unveiling of the new V4 Multistrada represented the entry into production of the world's first motorcycle equipped with front and rear radar technology. This is the fourth generation of a model that has already seen production of more than 110,000 units.

Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati, said that "although 2020 is a stormy year, the third quarter recorded the most positive performance ever. Now the situation is worsening again, unfortunately just when we are about to present to the world the new models for 2021, on which we have worked continuously despite the difficulties introduced by the pandemic.
In addition to a slew of new Scramblers, the Multistrada V4 and updated XDiavel, 2021 sees Euro 5 and other updates to the SuperSport 950, Panigale V4 and V4S, a numbered Panigale V4 SP (Sport Production) series delivering 214 hp, 12.6 KGM of torque, and weighing in at just 173 kg dry; plus new Italian THOK powered electric mountain bikes, including the TK-01 RR Enduro eMTB.

The new Multistrada features Ducati's new lightweight V4 Granturismo engine - "developed for maximum smoothness of operation with record-breaking maintenance intervals," Ducati says the new engine is "compact and light, performing, featuring rich torque values: an engine designed for "adventouring" use, at the same time able to offer great thrills and sportiness".

In additional news, the rumours about the sale of Ducati by VAG do appear to be back on the agenda, at least it has now been admitted as being within the realms of the possible, as Ducati parent company Audi endeavours to streamline its structure and lay down the foundation for its electric future.

Can you have too much of a good thing? Maybe! The 800 cc Ducati Scrambler Nightshift - one of four more 800/1100 cc Scramblers added to what may be in danger of becoming an uneconomically oversized family.

According to the Reuters news agency, Audi subsidiaries Ducati, Lamborghini and Italdesign are being wrapped up in to a single, Italian legal structure. VW CEO Herbert Deiss has stated that these brands "may not fit into the era of intelligent networked vehicles which provide on-demand mobility. Are [those brands] really valuable in the new world, we don't know yet". Addressing the possibility of disposing of their Italian assets, Deiss said "it's probably a bit of a slower process, but it's on our agenda."

Piaggio Group

As of 30 September 2020, the Group had sold 284,100 two-wheelers worldwide (-11.7% from 321,900 as of 30 September 2019), generating net sales of € 797.2m (-6.7% from € 854.1m at 30 September 2019).

V85 TT - 2021 sees the 100th anniversary of the Moto Guzzi brand, and Piaggio has commissioned Gregg Lynn to undertake a comprehensive redesign and refurb of the historic Mandello del Lario factory - including an update for the museum - in time for a September 10-12 weekend of anniversary festivities.

The figure includes spares and accessories, sales of which totalled € 89.6m. The overall drop registered primarily originated in India (-50.1% by volume; -37.5% in value at constant exchange rates); there was a more limited drop in sales on the EMEA and Americas markets
(-5% by volume; -7.6% by value), while the Asia Pacific area saw growth (+ 2% by volume; +7.5% at constant exchange rates).
The Piaggio Group says it has again confirmed its position of leadership in the scooter segment in Europe, with a 24.4% share of the market. Piaggio also further strengthened its position on the North American scooter market, increasing its market share to 27.3% from 22.9% at 30 September of last year.
In North America the Group is also working hard on consolidating its presence on the motorbike market with the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands. On Asian markets, there was noteworthy growth of sales in China, with volumes more than doubling in the third quarter of the year over the same period in the previous year.

The Piaggio Fast Forward 'Gita' has started a series of pilot programmes to develop new B2B applications in places such as airports, shopping malls and for food deliveries. Headquartered in Boston, the PFF 'Gita' is a first of its kind following robot carrier - designed to improve the way workers and customers move with loads in different outdoor and indoor environments.

In the scooter segment, sales of the Piaggio Medley grew by more than 40%, with positive contributions from all the main geographical areas. The Vespa brand also registered overall growth, with double-digit volumes of sale in Germany, the Netherlands, the Americas and various Asian nations, particularly China.
On the motorcycle market, the Moto Guzzi V7 and the super-sporty Aprilia RSV4 performed particularly well in the quarter, while steady growth over the first nine months of the year was confirmed for the Aprilia brand's 125 cc range, with models SX 125, Tuono 125 and RS 125.
To mark next year's Moto Guzzi centennial, the Board has approved a plan to renovate the historic factory in Mandello del Lario, awarding the project to Greg Lynn. This is a major restoration project that will involve the entire area, from production to the offices and the museum wing exhibiting Moto Guzzi models illustrating the company's history since 1921. Greg Lynn, is the CEO of Piaggio Fast Forward. 

Aprilia RSV4 Factory

Overall, the company says it sold 353,900 vehicles worldwide (479,200 at 30.09.2019) and made investments worth € 88m (€ 91.6m at 30.09.2019), including expansion of the E-Mobility department with new laboratories and a new organisational structure.

Stat Attack

JAPANESE EXPORTS
Motorcycle shipments to Europe from the Japanese factories were -44.66% for August (4,033 units) and -37.79% (7,334 units) for September. For the YTD (to September 2020), motorcycle shipments of Japanese made motorcycles to Europe were -20.79% at 90,863 units (over 65,000 of which were in the first three months), adding to the widespread inventory concerns already being reported by Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki and Suzuki dealers. In total PTW terms, shipments to Europe were -19.55% for the year to September at 100,849 units in total. Japanese made motorcycle exports to USA were -19.34% in September (3,836 units) and -36.53% YTD (26,857 units).

POLAND
New motorcycle registrations in Poland were +26.33% in October (1,113 units) and +24.84% (1,528 units) in September. They were +2.30% for the January to October period (18,154 units). New moped registrations are
-20.76% YTD (14,192 units), with the total PTW number at 32,346 units
(-9.28%) YTD. Poland is a large market for pre-owned machines imported from other markets and getting their first domestic registration. That amounted to 54,664 additional motorcycles YTD (-9.36%) and took the total Polish motorcycle market (new and pre-owned imports) to 72,818 units YTD (-6.71%), with total PTW registrations (new and pre-owned combined) at 95,352 units YTD (-8.96%).

SWEDEN
New motorcycle registrations for the year to October 2020 in Sweden are still running at a record high for recent years, with the market at +7.79% (12,239 units); there is some sign of softening though with October at
-6.94% (496 units). The Swedish moped market was +40.67% in October (1,266 units) and +16.31% (14,897 units) for the January to October period. Total new PTW registrations were +22.96% in October (1,762 units) and were +12.31% YTD at 27,136 units in total - the best market performance in Sweden at least since before the financial crisis in 2008.

SWITZERLAND
Swiss new motorcycle registrations were +25.62% for October at 1,216 units (+61.93%/2,280 units for September) and are running at +20.03% for the YTD (27,978 units). In total PTW terms, the Swiss market was +50.45% in September and +22.12% in October and is running at +16.58% for the YTD at 46,009 units. In motorcycle sales terms, Yamaha is market share leader with 5,022 units sold YTD; followed by Kawasaki (3,954 units), BMW (3,403), Honda (3,101) and KTM (2,025). The top seller has been Yamaha's MT-07 (1,269 units), followed by the Kawasaki Z 650, then the Z900, BMW R 1250 GS, the Ténéré 700 and the KTM 390 Duke, MT-09, Honda CB 500F, CMX 500 A Rebel and Suzuki GSX-S 750.

AUSTRIA
Motorcycle registrations (+125 cc) in Austria for the third quarter of 2020 (July, August and September) were +34.88% at 4,706 units and were running essentially flat for the YTD at -0.42% (13,333 units). Total PTW registrations were +19.38% for the quarter at 16,204 units and were +1.67% (39,046 units in total) for the January to September period - the best Q3 market performance in Austria since before 2010 and the best nine month YTD since 2013. KTM is market share leader in its home market with 3,150 units sold in the nine months for a 24% market share. BMW is second with 1,683 units sold for a 13% share, followed by Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha and Husqvarna.

AUSTRALIA
A total of 79,623 PTWs were sold in Australia during the period January to September 2020 - up strongly against the same period for 2019 at +26.4%. Off-road motorcycles were the largest sector (nearly 40% of all sales) at 31,776 units and +39.9% for the nine months. Road bikes were up by +8.3% at 25,556 units. Off Highway vehicles (powersports vehicles such as ATV and UTV/SxS) units showed the strongest growth YTD at +44.4% (18,930 units) followed by scooters, the only market sector that was down, at 3,361 units (-4.5%). The market was down by - 6.1% in 2019, with total sales for the full calendar year of 89,199.

BMW Motorrad

BMW Motorrad says it increased deliveries of its motorcycles and maxi-scooters in the third quarter (July, August, September) to 52,892 units, which is +20.9% compared to Q3 2019. It generated revenues of € 637m (2019: € 558m; +14.2%) and an EBIT of € 45m (2019: € 35m; +28.6%). The segment EBIT margin came in at 7.1% (2019: 6.3%).
For the nine months to September 30 the company reports a total of 129,599 units delivered to customers during the first three quarters of the year - at just -5.4% down on the same period of  2019, it represents a very strong recovery from the effects of COVID-19 so far this year and generated revenues totalling € 1,716m (2019: € 1,871m; -8.3%).
EBIT for the nine-month period amounted to € 110m (2019: € 226m; -51.3%), corresponding to an EBIT margin of 6.4% (2019: 12.1%).

All-new features of the updated BMW G 310 GS include Euro 5 homologated single with electromotive throttle controller and automatic idle speed increase and self-boosting anti-hopping clutch.

With an eye on the very "fluid" situation in the winter as the pandemic spikes again, BMW said that "motorcycle segment deliveries are expected to have decreased moderately year-on-year - with the EBIT margin forecast to lie within a range between 3 and 5%".
Following the debut of the M 1000 RR in September (IDN # 157), the company has continued to blitz the internet with virtual new model introductions.  

2021 R nineT 'Family' - R nineT, R nineT Pure, R nineT Scrambler and R nineT Urban G/S - with extended range, fine-tuning of the design and improved torque.

As the venerable GS line celebrates its 40th anniversary, range updates have included new Euro 5 compliant 'tech-rich' 1250 GS and GS Adventure anniversary editions with ShiftCam technology and an Electronic Dynamic ESA "Next Generation" chassis with fully automatic load compensation.

2021 'Roadster' style S 1000 R: Flex frame; Euro-5 compliant 999 cc inline four, 4-into-1 exhaust, 165 hp/11,000 rpm and 84 ft-lb torque at 9,250 rpm; Rain, Road and Dynamic riding modes (optional Dynamic Pro); ABS Pro; 14 lb weight saving (438 lbs total).

The G 310 GS gets an update with the Euro 5 compliant single getting an electromotive throttle controller and automatic idle speed increase with self-boosting anti-hopping clutch.
The 2021 R 1250 RT gets new BMW Motorrad full integral ABS Pro, three Pro riding modes, including the new "Eco" riding mode and Dynamic Traction Control DTC as standard.
The R nineT 'Family' gets five updates - R nineT, R nineT Pure, R nineT Scrambler and R nineT Urban G/S with extended range, fine-tuning of the design and improved torque. The boxer engine is now Euro 5 compliant and has undergone both technical and visual fine-tuning. 

BMW Motorrad Definition CE 04 - "the new style of urban two-wheel mobility".

As part of its company-wide #NEXTGen 2020, with the CE 04, BMW Motorrad says it is presenting the 'near-series' version of the BMW Motorrad Concept Link - "as a link between the analogue and digital worlds of the user, the BMW Motorrad Definition CE 04 is both a means of transport and a means of communication for the urban commuter. With its electric drive, trailblazing design and innovative connectivity solutions, it sets out to redefine the scooter segment.

Updated R 1250 RT

"The segment-defining design of the Definition CE 04 stands for a new urban aesthetic. Definition CE 04 now continues BMW Motorrad's electromobility strategy for urban conurbations and thus provides a concrete preview of what a contemporary production vehicle could look like," says Alexander Buchan, Head of Vehicle Design.