Energica

Energica MY2021 - RS and Kit Corsa Clienti

Energica, the Italian electric sport motorcycle company, and the exclusive single manufacturer for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, has joined the OEM trend to digital unveils to present its new MY2021 line-up.

Using the Moto.it Festival platform, Energica has moved to strengthen its offer with an RS version (Reparto Sportivo/Sport Department) for all three of the existing models (the Ego+, Eva Ribelle and Eva EsseEsse9 +) and an updated Kit Corsa Clienti - a race kit for the Ego+ model. 

"Despite the challenging period of time we're witnessing, we're extremely happy with the results obtained in recent months - results that confirm our leadership in the industry. The COVID-19 lockdown forced us to pause production for about a month, but that did not stop our growth - which exceeds that of the electric vehicle market," says Livia Cevolini, CEO Energica Motor Company.
"Unlike the traditional internal combustion engine sector (ICE), the electric market is confirmed as one of the main growth trends in the global economy. We are extremely satisfied with the results we have achieved and the feedback we are receiving for our products - MotoE has given the technological development of the Energica range an incredible boost and we are witnessing appreciation of our work in the responses of our customers.
"With great pride we will continue to be FIM Enel MotoE World Cup official and exclusive manufacturer for 2021 and 2022 - the extension of the contract with Dorna confirms Energica as the global technological leader in high-performance electric motorcycles for at least another two years.
"Combined with the past ten years, this guarantees us an unbridgeable competitive advantage. The championship has also proved to be an invaluable platform for technological advances and the visibility of Energica in international markets".

Eva EsseEsse9+ RS

Eva Ribelle RS

Energica RS version – "added performance from racing experience"
Energica says that its 2021 range "goes from strength to strength thanks to the racing experience gathered in MotoE". The new RS version is for all the models in the + range - that is the Ego+, the Eva Ribelle and the Eva EsseEsse9+.
"The RS version meets the expectations of the most demanding customers by adding racing-derived performance to our entire + range," says Giampiero Testoni, the Chief Technical Officer at Energica.

 

Ego+ RS

"The name is the acronym for Reparto Sportivo - Sport Department - a tribute to our team for the incredible engineering and technical work carried out with our involvement in MotoE. From both the road and the racing point of view, the past ten years has been a decade of innovation that has created a real Electric Motor Valley here in the Modena area [between Reggio Emilia and Bologna]."
In the RS version, the VCU (Vehicle Control Unit) implements a new mapping and parameter setting that underlines even more the performance and riding excitement derived from Energica's experience in MotoE.
Already known for their terrific acceleration, the acceleration on RS versions is now enhanced by two-tenths of a second compared to the existing MY2021 + versions: 2.6 sec 0-100 kmh, 0-60 mph.
"These first two seasons of MotoE have helped to create a huge amount of experience that is constantly being transferred to our road models. From Race to Road, we continue to dictate the pace of excellence in our field, and the innovations we present this year are a prime example of this," continues Testoni. 

Corsa Clienti Kit

Kit Corsa Clienti - "for the most demanding customers"
Specifically researched and developed for the Energica Ego+ model, the new Corsa Clienti Kit is for those most demanding customers who wish to convert the Energica Ego+ production model into a bike ready for the racetrack - with electronic, suspension and running gear features derived directly from Energica's FIM Enel MotoE World Cup race motorcycles.
The Corsa Clienti Kit components have been developed and tested on the track by the Energica Team test riders - "the braking system and suspension are derived from the racing world to guarantee maximum performance, handling and reliability".

Photos credits Lorenzo Concari & Marcello Mannoni


Record breaking order from Taiwan

Following its growth in 2020, Energica has started 2021 with a record-breaking
€ 836k order value (+28%) from its Taiwanese importer Russ Tiger Enterprise Co., Ltd.
Giacomo Leone, Energica Sales & Field Marketing Director, stated: "The order is the most significant single tranche order in the history of the company received and includes all the models of the Energica line-up. This order alone represents 14% of our 2020 sales turnover.
"We signed our commercial partnership for Taiwan with Russ Tiger in April in 2020 and it has worked hard to promote the Energica brand in its territory. Appreciation of environmental issues and sustainable mobility are advanced in markets like Taiwan, and the Taiwanese also have a particular sensitivity for 'Made in Italy' design and engineering values."
"Electric vehicles are the trend because of environmental protection," says Russ Tsai, Russ Tiger Enterprise CEO. "Plus, the weather and the riding environment in Taiwan are ideally suited to electric bikes. Our government supports the industry by applying a reduced commodity tax. Energica's range of electric bikes, its status as the MotoE official platform and its unique Italian style and performance make Energica the ideal partner for us here in Taiwan."


Sales increased in 2020

Energica's provisional financial results for 2020 amounted to approximately
€ 6m - which is very close to its pre-COVID announced goal of €6.5m - if confirmed, that will be an increase of +87% compared to 2019.
"As at the end of January 2021, the company is already reporting forward orders of some € 820k, which equates to 14% of the preliminary revenues of 2020, with a further 11% to be added before the end of the first quarter with the delivery of motorcycles in USA, where a dealer floorplan agreement has been negotiated with a major financial company.
"Our significant growth already puts us ahead of the market trend. Here in Italy, Confindustria ANCMA - the Italian motorcycle industry trade association - estimates that the electric two-wheeled market grew by + 84.5% in 2020".
USA remains the leading market for Energica, followed by Germany, the Netherlands and France. Middle East and Asia Pacific markets are confirmed to be on the rise, and where the new MY2021 will be launched in the next trimester with the hope of further growth.
Despite the ongoing difficulties relating to the global pandemic, the Modena-based manufacturer has increased its sales network and now numbers 72 dealers/importers and is continuing to invest in development projects such as E-Power, with Dell'Orto, Octo Telematics and Cellularline, in the nautical sector with Sealance, and by taking part in the Spin Accelerator (with Regione Trentino) and CEMP (with Regione Lombardia) projects.
Energica's top selling model in 2020 was its Eva Ribelle, accounting for nearly 50% of total unit sales.
Giacomo Leone, Energica Sales & Field Marketing Director, says: "Despite the challenges of the market, in the last year, we were able to reach new and unparalleled goals in the electric motorcycle sector. We believe that the new range and the third MotoE season (scheduled to get underway in May) will confirm our market leadership and stimulate further growth."

Ducati

Ducati - positives in a complex year

48,042 motorcycles delivered, € 676m in turnover and € 24m in operating profit, equal to 4% of operating margin. The strategy of shifting upward the product range pays off as turnover per motorcycle grows again in 2020.
Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding: "Even in the difficult 2020, Ducati remained profitable with a very positive cash flow, the best ever recorded to date."

Claudio Domenicali, CEO Ducati Motor Holding: "Thanks to rigorous discipline, we were able to reduce fixed costs, thus limiting the drop in operating margin; reducing inventory had a positive effect on cash flow, which is the best ever recorded."

Oliver Stein, CFO Ducati Motor Holding: "Financial stability is extremely important to support technological development, product and process innovation and Ducati Corse activities."
Ducati says it closed out "a challenging 2020, reinforcing the solidity that Ducati has demonstrated in recent years. Despite the complex global situation and the seven-week halt in production right at the peak period of the season, 48,042 (2019: 53,183) motorcycles were delivered to customers worldwide, limiting the sales gap compared to 2019 to -9.7%.
"The end of 2020 revenue reached a figure of € 676m (2019: € 716m) and the operating profit was € 24m (2019: € 52m), with an operating margin of 4%. Compared to 2019, sales growth was seen in China (+26%), Germany (+6.7%) and in Switzerland (+11.1%). Italy remains the largest market for Ducati, followed by USA.

Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled Fasthouse

"The turnover per bike figure has grown to € 14,883/motorcycle (2019: € 13,500), representing the highest value ever reached in the history of the company. This consistently reflects the strategy of evolving the product range towards the highest and premium part of the market."

Claudio Domenicali, CEO Ducati Motor Holding, declared: "2020 was indeed a challenging year, but we are satisfied with our financial performance throughout. Thanks to rigorous discipline, we were able to reduce fixed costs, thus limiting the drop in operating margin. At the same time, vastly reducing inventories had positive effects on cash flow, which is the best ever recorded to date. Investments in new products were not compromised and this paved the way for a positive outlook for Ducati in the future.
"A heartfelt thank you goes out to the women and men of Ducati who, every day, with passion and dedication, contribute to the company's strength and success even in this very complex and tough year."

Borilli Racing

Borilli Racing - title sponsor for 2021 Italian Enduro Championships

Borilli Racing, the Brazilian off-road tyre manufacturer, has signed to associate its brand with the 2021 Italian Enduro Championship circuits as main sponsor.
Borilli will sponsor all four Italian Enduro championships, which will be known as the Borilli Campionato Italiano di Enduro, including the prestigious Assoluti d'Italia di Enduro, the preparatory MiniEnduro, the exciting Under23/Senior and the Major/primary championship.

Owner Renato Borilli said that "our company has always developed high quality tyres, constantly challenging ourselves with the search for perfection, but for us it is also about passion and performance. The world of competitions has always represented a great opportunity in terms of visibility and product development. This year we will continue our relationship with the great Italian former Enduro World Champion and 11 time Italian Enduro champion Alex Salvini.
"He will race with our high-performance range of 7 Days Enduro tyres - the 7 Days Enduro, 7 Days Enduro Soft and 7 Days Extreme Enduro - for the whole season and will carry on the development of Borilli Racing tyres. The aim is to obtain a product that delivers ever better performance, durability and maximum efficiency on any type of terrain.

 

"We will also support the entire S2 Motorsport Team, which also includes the young Brazilian rider Bruno Crivillin and English rider Dan Mundell - both using our 7 Days Enduro tyres."
With its European headquarters in Italy, Borilli tyres are available from distributors, including Off Road Only (ORO2U) in the UK (www.oro2u.com), Motos Aleser in Spain (info@motosaleser.com), Team Azzalin in Italy (info@chracing.it) and CFL Racing in Portugal (r.lourenco@cflracing.com). The company says that it has opportunities for distributors in other European markets.

BMW Motorrad

BMW records second best annual sales figures; announces 2020 GS Trophy for Albania

 

BMW Motorrad has posted the second-best annual sales figures in its history, despite the challenges of a year in which COVID-19 turned the world inside out. Driven by the launch of thirteen new models last year, the company says it was able to deliver over 169,272 motorbikes and scooters to customers in 2020 - its second-best sales result ever. 

Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, said: "Following difficult months from March to June, we turned the tide by applying a high degree of pragmatic flexibility and dedicated commitment and, arguably, the best BMW Motorrad product offering ever to produce our second-best sales result ever.

Albania, "one of the last still largely untouched off-road paradises in Europe".

"The launch of the BMW R 18 was certainly one of the highlights in 2020. The long-awaited big boxer has been very well received by both the specialist press and by customers worldwide.”
With an increase of +1,224 vehicles sold, German market sales of 27,516 units were a new record, with France also up on 2019 with 17,539 units sold; elsewhere in Europe sales were slightly down with 13,918 sold in Italy, 11,030 in Spain and 7,539 units in Great Britain/Ireland. Overall volume in Europe declined by -5.3% as a whole.
With 11,788 motorbikes and scooters sold (previous year: 8,818 units), BMW Motorrad achieved +33.7% growth in China, 10,707 sold in Brazil (previous year: 10,064 units), with a growth of +6.4% for South American markets overall.
With a total of almost 80,000 units sold, the boxer models continue to form the backbone of BMW Motorrad's success, further strengthened in 2020 with the launch of the 1800 cc displacement R 18.
BMW says that its single-cylinder BMW G 310 R and BMW G 310 GS models "enjoyed unbroken popularity in 2020 - in order to be fit for the future, both models have undergone an extensive revision. With over 17,000 motorbikes sold worldwide, these two agile all-rounders are a permanent fixture in the BMW Motorrad portfolio and contributed to the overall success in 2020".
BMW claims it "hit the bull's eye with the market launch of the new F 900 R and F 900 XR models. With 14,429 models sold, we were able to further expand our strong position in the mid-range segment. Together with the other models such as the BMW F 750 GS, BMW F 850 GS and BMW F 850 GS Adventure, the total share of the two-cylinder series already exceeds 35,000 units".
In other news, the company has announced that its 2022 International GS Trophy will return to Europe - being staged under the "Explore the unexpected" motto in Albania in late summer 2022; the 8th edition of the GS Trophy.

 

Following the Roland Sands dragster special and the R 18 conversion by 'Blechmann' (Bernhard Naumann), this latest BMW custom R 18 in its "SoulFuel" series is "Spirit of Passion", by Dirk Oehlerking of Kingston Custom, Gelsenkirchen.

Described as "one of the last still largely untouched off-road paradises in Europe", 22 international teams and six international women's teams will be selected in the coming months, with qualification events having already been confirmed for Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Latin America, Mexico, Netherlands, Russia, South Africa, South East Asia, South Korea, United Kingdom and USA - the Chinese team 2020 has received a wildcard because it could not participate in New Zealand in 2020 due to the COVID-19 restrictions in force at the time.
In addition to 'Oceania' in 2020, previous editions have been staged in 2016 in South East Asia (Thailand), 2014 in North America (Canada), 2012 in South America (Chile, Argentina), 2010 in South Africa (South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique) and 2008 in North Africa (Tunisia). In the current edition, 22 teams compete with 60 riders from all over the world. The field of riders is accompanied by the GS Trophy Marshals, media representatives, doctors, sponsors as well as a photo and film crew.
The GS Trophy is not a race but a team competition in which an international line-up of off-road enthusiasts compete together in various special stages. Right after the event, BMW Motorrad will once again be offering "Follow the Trails" tours, where customers can follow in the footsteps of the competition on original GS Trophy motorbikes.

Bihr

IxxoWheel - easy wheel change

Bartenheim, France based Bihr is now distributing this ergonomic IxxoWheel wheel lift, which allows you to work on a lifting table at ground level or on the ground in the workshop, at home, on a motorcycle circuit or on an off-road track.

The patented IxxoWheel makes it easier than ever to work on the rear wheel - without having to dismantle and reassemble the rear wheel.
Supplied with two trays - one with a V-shaped top, one with a flat top - it has a fibre-reinforced plastic structure for increased strength and lower weight than aluminium; being lighter (and stronger), it is therefore easier to use for mobile servicing and repairs and at the racetrack.
It is fully adjustable and locks the wheel securely in position so it can be worked on safely; it comes with a one-year manufacturer's warranty (subject to proper use) and is made and assembled in France.

BIHR SAS
www.bihr.eu

Barnett

Dirt Digger clutch kits

Californian specialist Barnett Clutches & Cables' Dirt Digger high-performance clutch kits feature clutch plates made with its exclusive friction materials, tempered steel drive plates and a set of heavy-duty springs. 

Dirt Digger clutch kits provide a stronger, more positive engagement and the 'segmented' friction material design increases oil flow to the clutch, providing a smoother, more consistent performance and increased clutch life.
The heavy-duty springs are shot-peened and heat-treated for extreme durability. All clutch kits are pre-measured for proper stack height prior to packaging to ensure reliable fit and performance. Available for all popular off-road motorcycles and ATVs.

BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES
www.barnettcables.com

Falco

Falco for 2021

Italian specialist Gianni Falco has introduced new styles for 2021 right across its designs for Racing Sport, ADV Touring, Women, Urban Ride, Heritage/Classic and Off-Road/Enduro. 

DURANT

For ADV/Touring riders, the DURANT is made in full grain, oil-treated leather with a durable, breathable and waterproof 'High-Tex' membrane. There is a frontal P.U. moulded shin plate and D3O cups protect the ankle and a double closure system consisting of black aluminium buckles and Velcro. The boot features a Goodyear welded, heavy duty sole. It is available in black and brown. 

NARA

Also seen here, NARA, from the 'Women' line, is an on and off bike versatile, informal, contemporary and comfortable boot with 'Micro-Synth' upper with ventilated inserts. A 'High-Tex' membrane guarantees comfort and a good fit. Added P.U. moulded reinforcements protect the ankles and there is a sturdy, dual compound, high grip Vibram sole. NARA is available in black, brown and grey. 

TENSHO

Finally, TENSHO, from Falco's 'Urban Ride' line, is an "easygoing on/off bike sneaker with an oil-treated leather upper, 'Micro-Synth' ventilated inserts, 'High-Tex' membrane, D3O ankle cups and dual compound, high grip Vibram sole". It has a double closure system, combining laces and zipper, and is available in black, camel-brown, army-green and grey.
All three are C.E. certified and made in the EU.

GIANNI FALCO SRL
www.giannifalco.com

G.P.R.

G.P.R. engine-specific Euro 4 homologations made from 99% recycled steel and aluminium

Expanding in 2020, with new hires and an expanded product line despite the ferocity of the pandemic impact in the Milan area, recent new products from G.P.R. include a new range of Euro 4 homologated exhausts. These include what G.P.R. describes as "an important list of versions with catalysts that have Euro 4 homologations for specific model and specific engine displacements and configurations".

Z900

"These are real, certified compliances that our engineers have achieved that are dedicated to the most important brands for G.P.R. and our dealers in terms of sales - such as for Kawasaki 2020/2021 (Z900 seen here), Honda, Yamaha (Ténéré 700 also seen here), Benelli and KTM.

 

Ténéré 700

"Pure Italian style, 100% Italian design and manufacturing and 100% true approvals," says G.P.R. CEO Mauro Orlandi, "with reduced weight for increased power, deep, legal sound and environmentally responsible design and manufacturing, with 99% of the product (by weight) made from recycled raw materials - aluminium and stainless steel."

G.P.R. ITALIA SRL
www.gpr.it

Hevik

Rain protection clothing

Italian brand Hevik offers a whole range of practical waterproof clothing and accessories, available in a range of unisex sizes, and all providing high visibility.

The Twister Rain Fluo, made from 100% PVER nylon, is "perfect for city trips, it can provide the necessary waterproofness even during long journeys in heavy rain", and the fluorescent yellow inserts on the collar, sides and sleeves increase visibility. It consists of a separate jacket and trousers, both of which are lined with mesh to ensure breathability, which is increased on the jacket by the air intake on the back. The jacket has a front fastening with double flap and a concealed hood. A range of sizes, together with Velcro fastening on the hips, cuffs and bottom of the legs ensure a good fit. 

Supplied with a bag for easy storage of the suit under the saddle, the waterproof resistance is a 5,000 mm water column.
The boot covers HAC214R are waterproof over-boots completed by a stitched sole with a non-slip bottom, "easy to put on thanks to the back zip and flap with hook and loop fastening". A second flap with Velcro closure at the ankle allows the boot cover to be adjusted to the footwear underneath. Also included is a handy bag for easy storage. They are made from 100% Ripstop polyester PVC.

The Hevik waterproof glove covers HCW100 are equipped with a drawstring at the wrist, made from 100% polyester PVC, and a microfibre insert is handy and useful for cleaning the visor.

HEVIK
www.hevik.com

National Cycle

Extreme adventure gear for the Honda CB500X

Maywood, Illinois based National Cycle's new line of extreme adventure gear "provides the best in rugged, superbly designed accessories for adventure bike owners - whether riding far off the beaten path or simply commuting on the tarmac".

Seen here as a package for the 2019 and current Honda CB500X, the N5400 headlight guard "perfectly matches the contours of the CB500X headlight. This guard is thermoformed from tough 3.0 mm Quantum hard coated polycarbonate to fit the headlight exactly" and is attached to the headlight using marine-grade Velcro.

Adventure side guards

Luggage rack

Also seen here, the P4200 adventure side guards for the CB500X are made from durable powder- coated and e-coated steel and can "stand up to the most extreme abuse".
"Designed for off-road protection, they also offer options for mounting supplemental lighting, or video cameras".
The P4900 lowering kit and kickstand for the CB500X is "the perfect set-up for riders born without really long legs, and for those wanting lower-to-the-ground stability when riding off-road". The redesigned suspension link arms lower the seat height about 1.50 inches - a shorter replacement kickstand is included.

Headlight guard

Lowering kit and kickstand

Finally, the package includes the P9304 luggage rack for the CB500X, which is easy to install and "offers a sturdy platform for a large duffelbag or tailbag. Four tie-down points are included to secure your gear. It’s made from powder-coated steel to withstand the most rugged conditions". All products available as a package or separately.
Also available from National Cycle for the CB500X is a Quantum hard coated polycarbonate National Cycle VStream Windscreen - available in three sizes and tints.

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.
www.nationalcycle.com

Motorcycle Storehouse

PDG acquires Motorcycle Storehouse

Breda, Netherlands based Powersports Distribution Group (PDG) has announced a further addition to its fast growing portfolio of powersports industry businesses with the acquisition of Motorcycle Storehouse (MCS) from its current shareholders Nedvest and management.
PDG says it will "support the MCS management team in continuing its impressive growth trajectory. PDG aims to further develop MCS and strengthen its position as a leading pan-European player with the largest assortment of premium brands, including own brands of aftermarket parts and lifestyle products for Harley-Davidson motorcycles."

Iwan Vollebregt, CEO of MCS, comments: "We are excited about our cooperation with PDG, which will help us fuel and accelerate our ambition. PDG and its management team have shown that they have the relevant expertise and vision in the industry to help us continue our growth. More importantly, we are convinced that joining forces will open up many new opportunities, in several countries and market segments."
Headquartered at Groningen in the Netherlands, MCS is a "leading European player with the largest selection of leading brands in niche custom motorcycle aftermarket parts and lifestyle products with a track record of growth and 40 years of pioneering the industry."
This has created a pan-European platform with international reach and sales to more than 90 countries. With its 47 team members, a product offering of more than 70,000 SKUs, and more than 1,000,000 items in stock, MCS says it "offers the largest assortment in Harley-Davidson aftermarket hard parts and lifestyle products in Europe. MCS distributes its products globally from a state-of-the-art warehouse, and also operates a warehouse facility in the United Kingdom (Manchester), serving the UK market. 

Tom Beyers, CEO of PDG: "PDG is extremely impressed by MCS, the width and depth of their product assortment, their ability to create a large and loyal fanbase and their state-of-the-art operations and warehouse in Groningen. Their impressive leadership position in the Harley-Davidson niche segment will further establish the position of PDG as a European market leader."

Tom Beyers, CEO of PDG, commented that "PDG is extremely impressed by MCS, the width and depth of their product assortment, their ability to create a large and loyal fanbase and their state-of-the-art operations and warehouse in Groningen. Their impressive leadership position in the Harley-Davidson niche segment will further establish the position of PDG as a European market leader. We look forward to actively supporting MCS and its management in the next phase of growth."
PDG positions itself to be "the preferred partner for its customers and suppliers based on its broad premium product assortment, ease of ordering, availability, service level and perfect fit. PDG is proud to have the most professional and passionate individuals on board to work with the industry's most respected brands and to earn the trust of thousands of customers every day."

The PDG Group currently consists of three divisions. General motorcycle aftermarket B2B distribution with Hoco Parts, a premium motorcycle parts and accessories aftermarket distributor in the Benelux, Denmark, the UK and France. "With the addition of MCS, we now also offer aftermarket B2B distribution for Harley-Davidson motorcycles in Europe."
Additionally, PDG operates category management with DC Afam (Belgium), an aftermarket supplier to European motorcycle parts wholesalers, retail chains and large web-shops with transmission, battery and filter brands like Afam, Nitro and Shido.
Finally, PDG is a player in the vintage parts distribution segment with Dutch specialist CMS (Consolidated Motor Spares), "the leading global distributor of vintage Japanese motorcycle parts."
PDG is majority owned by Torqx Capital Partners in partnership with management and former owners.
www.powersportsdistributiongroup.com

Bihr

Bihr acquires Race FX in UK

Bartenheim, France based distribution group Bihr has moved to further reinforce its UK market position by acquiring British off-road specialist Race FX.
Bihr and Race FX owners Samantha and Paul Irwin signed and closed an agreement that gives Bihr 100% ownership of Race FX, one of the UK market's leading B2B distributors of motorcycle parts, accessories and rider gear for the off-road segment in the UK.
Owned by Kontich, Belgium based Alcopa Group and headed up by CEO Christophe Piron, Bihr is one of Europe's fastest growing distributors and brand owners. The Race FX acquisition complements its 2019 purchase of MotoDirect, the owner of the RST apparel brand and UK Arai distributor.

Piron stated that the objective of the Race FX deal was to get better access to the UK off-road distribution market and complement the position Bihr currently has in the "Street" segment in the UK through MotoDirect.
In addition, Race FX will serve as the logistics platform to deploy Bihr's motorcycle parts and accessories distribution activity in the UK.
"The fit of Race FX and Bihr together just made perfect sense," said Paul Irwin, former owner of Race FX.  "Race FX and Bihr have a number of brands in common (Race FX in the UK and Bihr on the continent), and this transaction will allow us to get full access to both the off-road and road distribution channels in the UK."

 

Christophe Piron, CEO of Bihr, said: "Welcoming Race FX into the Bihr group is a real opportunity for us to truly accelerate our deployment in the UK. Beyond the 34 brands currently distributed by Race FX and MotoDirect in the UK, the brand and product team of Bihr has worked very hard last year to secure the distribution of 150 additional brands in the UK."
Terry Birtles, Bihr's UK Country Manager, said: "The expertise that Race FX has in off-road rider gear and parts and accessories distribution is critical for us. In the coming weeks, we will leverage the Blackburn warehouse to progressively introduce the newly distributed products in UK."

In terms of organisation, Paul Irwin has been appointed Off-Road Business Development Manager UK for Bihr, reporting to Terry Birtles. Bihr UK will operate under two commercial names - Race FX powered by Bihr and MotoDirect powered by Bihr.
Founded in 1975 by Cyrille Bihr, the company now employs some 650 people, including 74 in-house sales representatives and 35 customer service representatives. Present in over 14 countries, the Bihr portfolio includes about 230 brands and 200,000 items, distributed to a network of 11,550 dealers from five warehouses, totalling more than 44,350 m2. The company says it can supply almost all dealers in Europe within 24 hours.
Paul and Samantha Irwin established Race FX in 2003. The company has a 30,000 sq ft distribution centre in the north of England and has a handpicked specialist portfolio of 28 brands - most of which are exclusive to Race FX in the UK.
www.bihr.eu

2021 WSBK

2021 WSBK provisional calendar changes

Released on March 9th, this latest 2021 WSBK and WSSP schedule includes an addition and a postponement, with the Circuito de Navarra making its debut on the WorldSBK calendar, while the Aragon Round becomes season opener due to the postponement of Estoril.

The Circuito de Navarra becomes the fifth Round of the 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. Located in Los Arcos, in the north of Spain, the circuit was opened in 2010 and has already hosted events for both national and international level competition. It will host WorldSBK and WorldSSP classes from the 20th to the 22nd of August. 
MotorLand Aragon will now host the opening Round of the 2021 calendar from the 21st to the 23rd of May due to the postponement of the Estoril Round, initially scheduled to be held from the 7th to 9th of May. It is hoped that there will be a new date for Estoril announced for later in the year.

MV Agusta

MV Agusta merges Design and Technical departments

MV Agusta has implemented a complete renovation and reorganisation of its San Marino based Castiglioni Research Center (CRC) premises - with the company's Technical Department and Design Centre (formerly at Rimini) now merged into a single unit "to optimise and accelerate current processes in the design and development of new projects.
"CRC has also received new important investments in terms of technologically advanced equipment and instruments which will aid the 30-strong staff of highly specialised designers and engineers to navigate continuously between the physical and virtual environments in real-time".

 

From left to right: Alessandro Volpini, Timur Sardarov, Brian Gillen, Giorgio Mazzotti

Having parted ways with long-term Design Director Andrew Morton last year, former Technical Director Brian Gillen has been leading the CRC as R&D Director since then, with Giorgio Mazzotti as Design Director, Alessandro Volpini as Technical Manager and Stephane Zache as Chief Designer.
"The renovations in CRC are focused on creating a new working environment to further stimulate the creativity and efficiency of our extremely talented team. They constitute the real backbone of an institute that is renowned and respected worldwide. I welcome Stephane Zache as a valued new addition to the CRC leadership team," said Brian Gillen.
In other news, MV Agusta has announced a deal with e-Novia, a Milan based 'deep-tech enterprise' factory founded in 2015 that is described as being specialised in "Collaborative Mobility, Humanised Machines and Augmented Human", a collaboration aimed at "providing riders with a digital and personalised mobility experience".
Apparently, "enjoying the most thrilling trips in complete safety and respecting individual riding styles" is the "overarching proposition of the project".

 

The two businesses will "focus their efforts on big-data-enabled services for riders through e-Novia technology. The collaboration already brought significant results, such as the MV Ride App introduced in June 2020. The new platform will help MV Agusta support customers through specialised services worthy of a true tech-company".
Timur Sardarov, CEO of MV Agusta Motor S.p.A., said: "Digitalisation is high on the agenda of MV Agusta's strategy for growth. The union between traditional craftsmanship, advanced engineering and deep tech make our offer unique and ever more attractive for a demanding clientele that accepts nothing but perfection under every aspect. This kind of technology transforms the experience of riding an MV Agusta, making it even more enjoyable, safe and exciting."
Ivo Boniolo, Chief Operating Officer at e-Novia, is quoted as saying: "With this collaboration, interaction with the urban rider is taken to an augmented form through deep tech. The motorcycling industry and the light mobility sector will now have a new point of reference in terms of digital experience design, sense of community and personal safety. We believe that the future of motorcycle brands inevitably passes through the digitalisation of their products and their integration with mobile applications."

FUCHS SILKOLENE

"Don't bottle it" - one million 'Lube Cubes' and counting

Despite the growing public awareness about the problems caused by single-use plastics, currently only 41.2% of plastic is recycled across Europe. Within the lubricants industry, most single-use plastic packaging is extremely difficult to recycle due to contamination, which sadly means that most ends up in landfill or is incinerated.
Most single-use plastics only begin to degrade after around 700 years, and in addition to this problem, the plastic production process is one of the leading causes of carbon emissions - ultimately compounding its impact on our environment.

As reported in the final quarter of 2020, FUCHS SILKOLENE has now switched ALL its engine oils away from 4 litre and 20 litre plastic bottles in favour of 100% recyclable Lube Cubes.
"Leading the way with market-leading packaging technology, the FUCHS SILKOLENE superior motorcycle products are now only available in an eco-friendly carboard pack, reducing carbon footprint without any extra effort or quality compromise," said FUCHS' John Mosley.
"Lube Cube packaging is 100% recyclable, offering obvious benefits to the environment and tackling plastic waste head-on.
"Delivered flat-packed to the manufacturing site and in far higher quantities per pallet load than its plastic counterparts, the logistical benefits of fewer deliveries further extends an improved carbon footprint through the Lube Cube manufacturing process."
15,600 empty 20 litre Lube Cubes can be transported to FUCHS's production lines in two trucks, whereas it takes six trucks to deliver the same number of plastic containers - a reduction of 66%.
Two truck loads of 4 litre Lube Cubes are the equivalent of eight trucks supplying 20 litre plastic containers - a reduction of 75%.
Joost van Genderen, Head of Motorcycle at FUCHS Lubricants, said: "These statistics demonstrate the significant added value from switching to Lube Cubes from traditional plastic containers. Fewer trucks on the roads means less CO2, less congestion and reduced operational costs.

"Being easy to use and fully recyclable is the most obvious saving for our customers as they can now help make a positive choice for the environment when selecting our products - so it's good news for everyone - and with the 360 degree full colour print decorated box, the new packs stand out on the shelves, allowing for easy selection from our colour coded performance level front labels."
"The Lube Cube is a tremendous success story, and we plan to continue to build upon it, with the ultimate aim of removing all single-use plastic bottles from our range completely by 2022.
"So far, the introduction of the Lube Cube has saved more than 800 metric tonnes (800,000 kg) of plastic since its launch in 2012. Recording our millionth Lube Cube sale at the end of 2020 proves that our customers are responding well to this eco-friendly innovation."
www.silkolene.com

FIM MiniGP World Series

FIM MiniGP World Series

The FIM is launching a new MiniGP platform on its 'Road to MotoGP', in partnership with Dorna Sports.
The FIM MiniGP World Series will unify and standardise MiniGP competitions from around the world under the same umbrella. The series aims to create an equal platform for young riders worldwide - "and increase their skill and opportunity on the 'Road to MotoGP'."
The FIM MiniGP World Series will comprise MiniGP competitions organised by one or more FMNs or CONUs across the globe that sign up to be part of the new initiative, with each competition in the Series adhering to the same set of sporting and technical regulations in order to standardise competition. 

MiniGP Cups or competitions wishing to be included as part of the new Series - and thereby gain 'Road to MotoGP' status - can be either national in nature or representing a larger geographical area at a regional or continental level.
Races must take place on karting circuits that meet minimum standards set by the FIM or national federation in question, who will also decide on the minimum circuit length. Riders must be between 10 and 14 years old, competing on equal Ohvale GP-0 160 machinery. The official single tyre supplier for all the FIM MiniGP World Series will be Pirelli, with a standard tyre allocation given per event.
A minimum of four events comprising a minimum of eight races must be included on the calendar, with a minimum number of 15 permanent riders in each competition. The first event must take place by July 2021, and the final event of the season should be held no later than the 17th of October.
"At the end of the season, the top competitors will be offered some incredible opportunities. The champion of every national, regional or continental MiniGP Cup will be given the opportunity to participate in a World Final, which will take place during the week leading up to the final MotoGP event of the season.
"The winner of the World Final will, subject to age and location/nationality, secure a spot in one of the 'Road to MotoGP' programmes on the next rung of their career ladder. Depending on their age and location, the top riders from each national, regional or continental MiniGP Cup will also have either direct access to the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup selection or the availability of entry into the Honda British Talent Cup, Northern Talent Cup or European Talent Cup.
Jorge Viegas, FIM President, said: "This FIM/Dorna initiative puts the National Federations at the forefront of the system, because it is up to them to fully organise the national series and to hand-pick the best from each country that will be present in the World Final in Valencia. Dorna and the FIM have been working on this project for a few years now; it is now becoming a reality and I would like to thank our Promoter and give an additional incentive to all our affiliated federations."
Valerio da Lio, CEO of Ohvale: "It is a dream coming true! We are very proud to be part of the FIM MiniGP World Series project. This is an important step in the growth of motorcycling at international level.
"For many years, Ohvale has been creating a solid basis for the growth of new talented riders at an international level and thanks to the involvement of its sales network and national federations. Ohvale has spread a new philosophy for young motorcyclists - equal bikes for all and sealed engines, so it is the rider who makes the difference. We thank FIM and Dorna for choosing Ohvale for the new FIM MiniGP World Series."

Twin Air

Powerflow kit for CRF450R 2021

Twin Air has released a Powerflow filter kit for Honda's updated CRF450R - Honda intends for the model to compete in the MXGP Championship in 2021 and initial market reaction to the lighter, stronger framed Dakar winner suggests that it will be an even better seller than before.
A unique feature of the newly developed bike is the upside-down air filter placement - the filter position better prevents dirt from bulking up on the filter. Twin Air has developed its easy install new filter kit in cooperation with Honda's MXGP teams.

A replacement for the OEM filter system, it is proven to increase performance with a larger filter surface in comparison to the OEM filter to create additional airflow and protection. A lightweight aluminium ring that is sealed with a rubber O-ring replaces the heavier OEM backfire sealing ring design. The aluminium cage and fire-resistant air filter are easy to install with a lightweight, high strength aluminium bolt.

TWIN AIR
www.twinair.com

Andreani

Andreani - DS1 spring test dyno

Noted for its workshop suspension maintenance and tuning systems, in recent years one of the Andreani machines which has enjoyed the greatest success is its spring test dynamometer -developed to give suspension technicians the opportunity to test and tune every aspect of the set-up of modern suspensions.
To develop the machine, "we focused on ease of use and the managing and comparing of the data captured by our advanced software," said company founder and former racer Giuseppe Andreani.
"In fact, our DS1 is able to measure the elastic forces (compression, extension and rebound) emitted by the suspension as a complete set-up and by the performance of the individual components. The technician can analyse the data and see the performance of the suspension in real time graphs and numerical outputs as captured and reported by the tool software."
For specialist use, Andreani additionally offers specific kits that are calibrated for the particular dynamics and tuning needs for a correct dyno spring set-up of, for example off-road suspensions, street and sport bike set-ups, a bump rubber kit (new) and even for MTB suspensions, making the DS1 a versatile tool.

The off-road kit, for example, includes the specialist fittings that make it easy to adapt the DS1 specifically to all the different kinds of dynamics, set-ups and architectures of off-road motorcycle forks. The kit also includes fittings to measure the bump rubbers, which are very important set-up components. Based on the rubber hardness, the software will give different progression graphs - by measuring the effects of the hardness, the technician will be able to characterise and choose the bump that suits the requirements best - or to simply verify whether or not a bump should be replaced. 

This brand new feature allows the technician to characterise the force and progression of the bump rubbers in their original mounting position.
Andreani is offering free shipping on the DS1 throughout Europe.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com