Brembo

Brembo to buy J.Juan Group

Following the acquisition of SBS earlier this year, Brembo has announced that it has signed an agreement to take 100% ownership of Gavà (Barcelona) based brake hose and pad specialist J.Juan Group.
Brembo states: "With this transaction, the Group expands its brand family and completes the range of solutions for motorbike braking systems."

Founded in 1965, J.Juan is based in and has three plants in Spain and one in China, manufacturing brake hoses and a "strategic safety component for braking systems that will complement the current range of Brembo products for motorbikes.
"With this transaction, Brembo forges ahead with its path to become a trusted solution provider. The acquisition of J.Juan will enable the Group to complete its range of solutions for the motorbike braking system and to expand its brand family for the growing motorbike sector."
Alberto Bombassei, Chairman of Brembo, is quoted as saying: "We are proud to welcome J.Juan in the Brembo Group. This transaction is in line with our global strategy and follows the recent acquisition of SBS Friction in Denmark. We continue to invest with the aim of strengthening our motorbike core business. The addition of J.Juan is a great opportunity for us, as it reinforces our positioning as a company increasingly oriented to offering comprehensive, integrated and high-quality solutions to our customers."
José Luis Juan, CEO of J.Juan, stated: "We are glad to join the Brembo Group. The transaction will allow us to become part of a strong company with a solid global footprint that will support J.Juan's development for the professional growth of all our employees and the benefit of customers."
Under the agreement, the consideration for the transaction is currently estimated at € 70 million, to be paid using available cash. The final price will be subject to the usual adjustment mechanisms envisaged for similar transactions. The enterprise value is put at € 73 million.

Supersprox

Supersprox switches to more environmentally friendly packaging

Supersprox has invested in new, environmentally friendly packaging - changing from plastic PET clam shell packaging to paper card packaging.
Supersprox General Director DJ. Maughfling says: "We have become uncomfortable with plastic waste from our packaging and decided to change 100% to a paper based pack for all the range. Every time I put my household plastic waste into the recycling bin, I am wondering what happens to the hundreds of thousands of sprocket packages. 

"With this change, we save 5,400 kg of plastic each year. Many companies are thinking about their impact on the environment. It is a topic constantly in the news and growing in power every year. There might be some debate as to the reasons for global warming, however, it seems clear that the subject should not be ignored.
"In the motorcycle industry, the options to act in a more environmentally ethical way are not just limited to how the motorcycles themselves are manufactured and their emissions. One easy step for any vendor is to consider their product manufacturing process and packaging. We have done that and are always looking for other ways in which we can be socially responsible and environmentally friendly."
www.supersprox.com

Puig

Puig and KRT renew their collaboration

Puig and the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) have renewed their collaboration agreement for the 2021 WorldSBK season.
Puig has been a KRT technical partner for the last four seasons. KRT has won the WorldSBK Championship seven times - in 2013 with Tom Sykes and since 2015 consecutively with Jonathan Rea.

After four very successful years, Puig has renewed its technical partner collaboration with the official Kawasaki WorldSBK team for the 2021 season.

Located in Granollers (Barcelona) - the same place as the KRT headquarters - Puig has been designing, manufacturing and distributing motorcycle accessories since 1964.
Carles Puig, Export Manager for Puig: “We are so happy to keep collaborating with this amazing team and neighbour. The joint teamwork between KRT and Puig is bringing out the best of us and is creating many new ideas that are tested on track and eventually offered to dealers and their customers in our catalogue.
"Puig is currently one of the largest manufacturers in the motorcycle accessory sector, exporting to over 60 countries. Opting for top level competition hand in hand with KRT is a reflection of our desire to remain at the forefront of technological innovation in motorcycling."
Biel Roda, Marketing Manager of KRT, commented: "The renewal with Puig is almost obligatory! They are the perfect partners. On a technological level they bring us a very positive development with their 3D simulation technology, and the racing passion and know-how of their technical department brings a lot of value to the KRT project.
"With this collaboration, KRT and Puig hope to remain competitive in 2021 and continue with the goal of winning WorldSBK championship races with Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes as our riders again this season."
www.puig.tv

Hornig

We celebrate our 20th anniversary in 2021!

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2021, German BMW parts and accessory specialist Hornig has unveiled parts designs for the S 1000 XR/RR as part of a "virtual trade fair" that marks its anniversary achievement - and what a tumultuous 20 years it has been for the motorcycle industry!

BMW S 1000 RR (2019) conversion

During that time though, Cham based Motorcycle Accessory Hornig GmbH has prospered. Helmut Hornig's first part was a theft-proof oil filler plug, and 20 years later that company has over 4,000 product lines for BMW applications and operates from a 2,000 sqm complex, employing 30 people, selling to around 1,000 dealers and exporting to over 120 countries.
Seen here on the company's S 1000 XR conversion, for long-distance rides, the Hornig Touring Series smoke-grey windshield was developed to minimise the windblast against the rider. These screens raise that windblast for several centimetres, allowing the rider to keep to a more comfortable, natural riding position - up to some 17 cm higher than the original windscreen; matching air deflectors also available.

BMW S 1000 XR (2020) conversion

Other changes made to the standard S 1000 XR include replacing the original seat with Hornig's reupholstered version, there is a relocated GPS position (above the instruments) for improved digital route planner visibility, and there is a never-to-be-underestimated handlebar bag. 

The faithful old theft-proof oil filler plug conversion is still a Hornig staple (it can only be removed with a Torx T45); there is a side stand foot enlargement; rear swingarm and fork crash protectors; crash bars; shift lever extension; brake pedal enlargement; 'Fender Extender'; oil cooler screen; mirror extensions; LED fairing turning signals; carbon fibre tank pad; adjustable stainless steel licence plate bracket; stainless steel bar end weights, and more.

On the S 1000 RR conversion seen here, there is a Hornig replacement racing screen, a replacement, precision adjustable chain tensioner, (GIVI tank bags are also available from Hornig), tail bag, a triple clamp mountable GPS mount, our oil filler cap (of course!), crash protectors, oil cooler cover, and a short licence plate holder allows a better view of the rear wheel.
www.motorcycleparts-hornig.com

Caberg

Caberg 'RIVIERA V4' demi jet

Italian specialist Caberg's new RIVIERA V4 is a new demi jet "with an innovative and elegant look, designed as an all-rounder, perfect for daily urban use and for longer distances.
"There are two LG Chem Hi-Impact ABS shell sizes, both with relatively small overall dimensions, so they easily store under narrow seats."

Andrea Donghi, Caberg Product Manager, said that "the ventilation system offers optimal comfort even during the most extreme weather conditions thanks to a top vent and two rear air extractors. Our exclusive Double Visor Tech system (DVT), with its easy-to-use inner sun visor, improves safety and features a longer outer visor and sun visor."
The retention system has a micrometric buckle and metal ring to secure the helmet to the motorcycle. The lining and neck roll are completely removable and washable, made in hypoallergenic and high transpiring fabrics.
"The RIVIERA V4 is ready for our new multi-function capable Caberg 'Just Speak Evo' wireless Bluetooth rider communication, service and entertainment connection system and the 'Just Speak Evo' function uses the Bluetooth A2DP profile."
The RIVIERA V4 is ECE 22.05 homologated and weighs in at just 1,150 +/- 50 g.
In additional news, Caberg continues its commitment to the racing world, announcing Samuele Cavalieri as one of its riders for the WorldSBK Championship in 2021.

 

One of the most talented young Italian riders, Cavalieri will make his series debut in 2021 with the Pedercini Racing Team on the new Kawasaki ZX-10RR with the Caberg Drift Evo helmet.
Born in Bologna in 1997, he competed in the CISP 125 Championship at the age of 14, in the CIV Moto3 the following year and in the National Supersport series in 2014.
Samuele made his international debut in 2016 at the CEV Moto2, scoring 59 points. In 2017 he debuted in the CIV SBK with the Barni Racing Team, reaching the podium at Mugello. In 2019 Cavalieri joined the Ducati team's Motocorsa, scoring fourth place in the overall ranking, making his WSBK debut. Last year he was the Italian Superbike Vice-Champion and competed in six WSBK races.
Andrea Donghi said: "The agreement with Samuele confirms our strategy in the racing world to keep collaborating with young Italian riders. We are very happy to start a collaboration with him and we aim to build a long-lasting alliance. This year it will be his first full season in the World Superbike Championship, but we are pretty sure that is going to be a great opportunity for him to express his talent."

CABERG SPA
www.caberg.it

Andreani Group

Fork spring removal made easy

Italian suspension specialist Andreani Group has released a new, updated design of hydraulic shock and fork spring disassembler - the tool that allows suspension technicians to remove the shock springs or - thanks to a special separately available extension - the fork springs, without necessarily having to unscrew and modify the preload ring each time.

Thanks to its golden lateral holes, the technician can easily adjust the tool height according to the mono length and operate on different spring dimensions by using the various plates it is equipped with.
After positioning the damper, the spring can simply be compressed through the specific bottom jack - removing the seiger allows the spring to be removed.
The disassembler is available set in the upper part of the Andreani universal toolbox, "used worldwide by motorcycle suspension specialists", or available separately as a single tool.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL
www.andreanigroup.com

Koso

KOSO DL-04 multifunction meter for R nineT

Leading motorcycle instruments manufacturer Koso's DL-04 multifunction meter is the latest addition to a wide range of contemporary multifunction meter designs that combine advanced technology with modern optics.

Seen here for the BMW R nineT range, this genuinely 'plug and play' design combines speed, odometer and tripmeter with hour meter, voltage, clock, stopwatch and recording of maximum values.
Also featuring six indicator lights, it provides all the most important information about the vehicle both during and for analysis after the ride.

KOSO EUROPE
www.kosoeurope.com

LeoVince

LeoVince LV-12 for Honda Africa Twin

Italian exhaust specialist LeoVince has added to its LV-12 applications with a newly developed fitment for the Honda CRF 1100 L Africa Twin - an ADV-specific version that "combines cutting-edge materials with Made in Italy design".

Available in three different finishes - stainless steel, Black Edition and titanium (seen here) - it is made from TIG welded AISI 304 stainless steel; the Black Edition has a high temperature resistant black ceramic-based coating and the titanium outer sleeve version features TIG welded Grade 1 titanium brackets.
The ECE approved LV-12 exhaust features a dual-flow carbon fibre end cap, protected by a matt clear coating for maximum UV resistance.
"The oversize design makes the LV-12 the perfect fit for Adventure motorcycles, and the laser-etched LeoVince logo gives the exhaust a premium finish. With its dynamic and aggressive look, the LV-12 is unmistakable in the urban jungle and ready for any adventure".

LEOVINCE
www.leovince.com

LighTech

Lightweight, high-strength components for the RS 660

Noted for the high-quality design, materials and manufacturing that goes into every one of its high- tech parts, Italian specialist LighTech are masters of ergonomics and always quick-to-market with options for new models.

LighTech's new range of parts for Aprilia's long awaited and well received RS 660 includes an innovative and technically advanced rearset design in three configurations - basic with fixed footpegs (FTRAP007), W version with folding footpegs (FTRAP007W) and the top-of-the-range R version (FTRAP007R, seen here) with folding footpegs, red anodised footpeg support, titanium screws, high quality bearings and carbon heel guard; each one has a wide choice of accessories to customise to the rider's taste.

The LighTech licence plate holder is lightweight but durable, being resistant to extreme temperatures. Made in fully compliant carbon fibre enriched PA12 polyamide composite, it is equipped with an approved licence plate light and reflector; coloured Ergal hardware kits available. It features adjustable indicator and reflector supports.

 

Also seen here is a LighTech chain adjuster and forks, magnesium lever kits, brand new wheel axle protectors, coloured mirror caps and highly functional fuel tank caps. The range also includes Ergal oil caps, brake and clutch pump covers and aluminium crankcases.

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

National Cycle

VStream Windscreens for 2021 Ténéré 700

More than just a little brother to the XT1200 Super Ténéré, the 700 is a lighter, more manoeuvrable adventure bike suitable to any task - and internationally recognized Maywood, Illinois specialist National Cycle says that "those tasks are made easier with a VStream Windscreen"!

Three different sizes and two tints "ensure a perfect windscreen for almost every rider size or riding preference. All will offer improved wind protection and riding comfort compared to OEM or other aftermarket windscreens.
"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 tough 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 ten times more abrasion resistant than FMR hardcoated polycarbonate, and 30 times more than windscreens made from commonly used acrylic or 'aircraft plastic' as it is sometimes called. VStream Windscreens are easy to install and are protected by a three-year warranty against breakage."

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.
www.nationalcycle.com

KSR

Motron Motorcycles by KSR

The Austrian KSR Group has unveiled a new two-wheeler brand - Motron Motorcycles - and starting the 2021 season with a total of ten two-wheeled vehicles.
The portfolio includes seven internal combustion engine motorcycles and scooters (ICE), three electric scooters and an electric minibike. The ICE units have engine sizes from 50 to 400 cc and are targeted at the entry-level and mid-size segment. The electrically powered models currently offer a top speed of 45 km/h and form a new alternative in the L1e class.
"The launch of the new MOTRON brand hits exactly the pulse of the times. Especially in times like these," said Michael and Christian Kirschenhofer, owners of KSR Group.

"People are longing for a fulfilling balance to their pandemic daily lives, and Motron appeals to a target group that can find a new brand to start a new hobby, a new passion. Our brand slogan 'GET OUT THERE' underlines our approach to fight the difficult times, get out and have fun on a Motron."
Available at the start of the 2021 season, the WHIZZ, CUBERTINO, VOLZ and VIZION electric models will be launched on the market first. The internal combustion siblings will be coming to dealers from Q2: the adventure bike X-NORD 125, the cruiser called REVOLVER 125 and the naked bike WARRIOR 400, together with the scooters BREEZY 50, VENTURA 125, IDEO 50 and IDEO 125 will make the start. These will be added to by the NOMAD 125 and X-NORD 400 in the second half of the year. All models are Euro 5 compliant.

'GET OUT THERE'

"The development and production of the models are carried out by experienced partners in Asia who work together with very successful and well-known brands. This allows Motron to take advantage of synergy effects and benefit from long experience and sophisticated technical developments.
"The Motron design line was developed by the KSR Group design team, which has been creatively active for two years in its own development and design studio in the Krems-Gedersdorf business park, Austria. Many coherent and novel design concepts, such as the unique Crossfire design line from Brixton, have already been created there. Characteristic for the Motron design are the fresh yellow accents on the modern and discreet black, grey and white colourways".
KSR says that all Motron models will be pitched at a "fair price-performance ratio. Sales will initially focus on the European market, starting in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Greece. The distribution network will expand to other European countries in the course of 2021".
www.motron-motorcycles.com

Spanish motorcycle registrations

Spain: new motorcycle registrations down slightly YTD

The latest data from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, shows new motorcycle registrations -0.37% for the first three months of the year at 33,096 units. Sales were -37.58% in January and -20.67% in February, but then were up by +89.80% in March (this increase is not surprising given that Spanish motorcycle sales plummeted in March, April and May 2020 due to COVID restrictions). 

Total PTW registrations were -4.35% at 36,504 units YTD. That compares to 28,919 units in the same period in 2020 and 24,657 units in 2019.
Jose Maria Riano, General Secretary of ANESDOR, said that "after negative data in January and February, in March the market improved. However, uncertainty over the possible arrival of a fourth wave of the pandemic and the impact of problems in the global logistics and supply chain of some components will be relevant factors in the coming months."
The top selling models in Spain YTD have been the Yamaha NMAX 125 and the Kymco Agility City 125. Honda remains overall market share leader with 20.0% of the Spanish market (6,635 units), followed by Yamaha, BMW, Kymco and Piaggio.
For the record - full year new motorcycle registrations in Spain were +11.07% in 2019 (at 175,585 units) and -11.50% in 2020 (155,391 units). Total PTW registrations were +12.17% (194,663 units) for 2019 and -8.99% (177,155 units) for 2020.

FIM and Dorna WSBK

WSBK - Estoril to be double-header

The FIM and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO) have confirmed that the Circuito Estoril will host WorldSBK and WorldSSP classes for the second Round of the 2021 season from the 28th to the 30th of May. 

The 2021 season will start with a double-header for the fifth time in MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship history as the Estoril Round goes back-to-back with the Aragon Round. The Circuito Estoril hosted the 2020 championship-deciding season finale, with the 2021 event also set to be full of action.

With the 2021 season set to begin in Aragon, Spain (May 21 - 23), Dorna says that it and the FIM continue to work closely with government officials and circuits in order to "put everyone's safety first and to ensure the original scheduled programme for all three classes is accomplished. Any further updates to the 2021 WorldSBK calendar will be posted through social media channels and online".
www.worldsbk.com

 

Energica

Energica in AI project partnership with Cellularline and Alascom

Italian high-performance electric sport bike manufacturer Energica Motor Company has started a technological collaboration with Cellularline and Alascom for an innovative AI project - one that will be developed on Energica motorcycles, but can easily be adapted to any electric vehicle.
The project is aimed at developing a communication protocol between the Energica riders and Cellularline-Interphone products through the Alascom app downloaded on the mobile phone. 

The rider, through the connection between the Alascom app and Ok Google or Hey Siri function of their phone, can interact with the bike thanks to the Interphone. The bike will reply by Bluetooth and the rider will be able to hear it through the Interphone.
"Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly growing trend, especially in the interaction between rider and vehicle," said Giampiero Testoni, CTO Energica Motor Company S.p.A.
"We have been pursuing innovation for years, and thanks to this innovative communication protocol, the rider can easily find information on his/her vehicle without distractions. For the development of this project, we relied on industry leaders such as Cellularline and Alascom."
"Innovation and safety have always distinguished Interphone products," says Emilio Sezzi, Group Chief Operating Officer Cellularline S.p.A. and Interphone B.U. Director.
"We are confident that the collaboration with Energica and Alascom will result in increasingly high-performance solutions dedicated to motorbikers, so that the aim on two wheels is to enjoy the ride."

"A riding experience with a new dimension," says Marco Scuri, CEO Alascom S.r.l. "Alascom uses Artificial Intelligence to create a voice assistant for the Energica bike with intuitive voice commands to check and control the essential features of the bike. Alascom is convinced that the partnership with Energica and Cellularline will lead to a new driving experience."
In other news, at the end of February Energica announced that its 2021 order book was already 49.7% of the value of its full year 2020 business (at over € 2.9m in orders), with 30% of them coming from USA.
The company's north American HQ recently relocated to a new 330 sqm facility in South San Francisco and now has 12 dealers in USA, the newest of which is Energica of New England outside Boston at Gardner, Massachusetts.  
New England has seen a doubling of electric vehicle ownership (to 30,000 EV in operation) and new charging station construction (there are now nearly 6,500) in the last two years. Massachusetts is the third richest state in USA and has committed itself to having 300,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2025, which would be around a 23% share of new car purchases in that year.
The first batch of MY2021 Energica models (which have already been sold) left the company's Modena, Italy HQ for USA in March.
Energica continues to raise capital, including an equity investment (1.6 million shares) worth some € 11m by New York based Ideanomics - a NASDAQ listed global company that specialises in facilitating the adoption of commercial electric vehicles and supports next generation financial services and fintech products on a sales-to-financing-to-charging (S2F2C) basis in high growth potential markets.
In Italy, Energica has deepened its international partnership with Total Lubricants. Total Italia has chosen the Energica HQ at Modena as the first location for the installation of 11 of its latest generation 22 kw charging stations at the factory.  

www.energicamotor.com

GasGas

GasGas goes EnduroGP racing in 2021

GasGas is to "further expand" its global racing activities by taking on the FIM Enduro World Championship in 2021, together with Andrea Verona.
"Leading GasGas Factory Racing into the EnduroGP series, the Italian has his sights set firmly on retaining his Enduro1 title on GasGas EC 250F machinery while also challenging the established stars of the overall EnduroGP class.

Together with Taddy Blazusiak, who will handle business in the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, Verona will complete a formidable two-rider line-up".
Jumping into the world Enduro scene back in 2017, Verona made an immediate impact by capturing the Youth 125 cc Enduro World Championship crown in his first full season of international racing. One year later, the youngster topped the 2018 FIM ISDE Junior World Trophy competition together with lifting the J1 Enduro World Cup title.
More recently, and following a rapid rise through the Enduro ranks, Verona claimed the 2020 Enduro E1 World Championship title at just 21 years old! Winning five of the eight days of racing that formed last year’s series, he also secured third overall in the EnduroGP category. He was originally set to compete for KTM Italy in 2021 before getting the call-up from GasGas Factory Racing.

Regina

The world's first maintenance-free chain is now shipping

One of the world's oldest motorcycle chain manufacturers (founded in Italy in 1919), in September last year Regina announced the world's first motorcycle chain that eliminates the need for 1,000 km periodic and workshop service interval re-lubrication.
Initially being offered as 525 (with 520 and 530 in development), the Lombardy, Italy based manufacturer describes its High Performance Endurance (HPE) chain as a Z-Ring chain "that is the result of extensive lab and street testing to demonstrate that it has a reliable useable life that is at least equivalent, if not greater, than a traditional, regularly re-lubricated Z-Ring chain".

The 'secret sauce' is the hydrogen-free tetrahedral amorphous carbon (ta-C) coating, currently considered as the most advanced among DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coatings. Applied on the surfaces of the bushings and the rollers of the HPE chain, it combines hardness with a low coefficient of friction.
Friction is the enemy of all transmission chain durability and reliability and reduces the efficiency of how the system is able to get the power that the engine sends to the transmission down to the tyre/road interface, where it needs to be.

It is the ta-C coating that eliminates the need of periodic re-lubrication, while ensuring at least the same mileage obtained with a normal chain regularly lubricated every 500 km. It reduces energy dissipation and increases efficiency in the chain drive, eliminating lubricant spatter during operation, and therefore minimising environmental impact.
For those who have an interest in material science, the use of ta-C is interesting. Pure carbon is present in nature only in two crystalline physical states - diamond (atoms in a tetrahedral bonding arrangement) and graphite (atoms in a hexagonal planar bonding arrangement); ta-C is a synthetic state of pure amorphous carbon in which up to 80% of the atoms are bonded to each other with a Tetrahedral arrangement - in the same way as pure diamond.
For this reason, among all DLC coatings, the physical properties of ta-C (such as hardness and coefficient of friction) are the closest to pure diamond, the hardest material on Earth.
However, a chain drive using an HPE chain does not require ta-C coated front and rear sprockets. When installing a new HPE chain, Regina strongly recommends replacing the front and rear sprockets with new steel made ones.
The company says that to guarantee its best functionality and aesthetics over time, there are three simple rules to follow - clean and re-lubricate the chain once a year (after washing the bike, after using the bike in wet conditions and/or in salty or dusty environments, and before storing the bike at the end of the riding/winter season) and check for correct chain tensioning every 3,000 km.
www.reginachain.net

SBS

PSI - EVO Sinter for UTV & SSV

As one of the largest manufacturers of brake pads, SBS has now introduced a full-range PSI upgrade compound for UTVs and SSVs.
"The new purpose-designed brake pad range called PSI - EVO Sinter is made of a new state-of-the-art conductive sintered performance compound, specially developed for the all-around (wet/dry) and all-terrain (leisure/race) UTV and SSV driving experience."
The new compound gives drivers a strong initial bite to enable instant brake feeling, easy modulation and powerful, consistent and reliable performance throughout the brake pad lifetime - "even under extreme conditions". 

The new PSI brake pads also include NUCAP NRS technology on the back plate - a technology that secures an indestructible mechanical bond between the pad compound material and the backing plate.
SBS CSO Christel Munk Pedersen said: "With the PSI - EVO Sinter compound, we want to give UTV and SSV drivers the ultimate upgrade compound for both casual all-terrain and race use. With the PSI, we have upgraded the compound performance level, so that drivers get a far better continuous brake feel in wet and dry conditions on rough terrain.

SBS brake pad compounds are secured to the backing plate using the NUCAP NRS retention system - this creates and unbreakable bond between the compound and the plate.

"The innovative and unique pad and backing plate bond created by the NUCAP Retention System (NRS) extends the security of the compound/backing plate interface right across the operational temperature range of the brake pad.
"Considering the tough conditions brake pads are exposed to during UTV and SSV use, we are taking brake performance and safety to the next level. Our extensive testing programme has included Baja 1000 UTV race champion Marc Burnett and found that the PSI-EVO Sinter is equally applicable for off-road hobby as well as competition use."
Following a preliminary 2020 introduction of a few applications, SBS has now moved to full-range availability. PSI - EVO Sinter compound is also available for most product-compatible ATV/Quad bike applications. The full range can be searched with the SBS online model-lookup 'widget' at the company's website.

SBS FRICTION
www.sbs.dk

Tecmate

OptiMate 2 DUO - making it easy

When it comes to tyres, most riders can quote various brands they like, the model that worked best for their riding style and the ideal air pressure for the terrain they ride in.
Unfortunately, that level of interest is entirely absent when it comes to batteries - despite being another key vehicle component. Very few riders really know what type or brand of battery is in their vehicle, or what the voltage should be when the battery is fully charged.
The typical rider attitude is, if it works, leave it well alone until it doesn't - riders only care when the battery is dead, but then the mindset is about solving the engine starting problem, not about the battery itself. 

This prevailing attitude motivated TecMate to create the OptiMate 1 DUO, an easy 'no brainer' battery charger maintainer that does not require the rider to have any prior knowledge about battery type or size, be it lead-acid, filler cap, AGM, GEL, LiFePO4, LFP, 12 V, 12.8 V, 13.2 V - as long as it is a starter battery in a vehicle with a 12 V system, it can be charged and maintained with an OptiMate 1 DUO. Plus, it is incredibly easy to use - connect it to the battery after parking the vehicle and walk away. No further supervision required.
This ease of use has made OptiMate 1 DUO a very popular battery maintainer. The good news for dealers (and their customers) from TecMate CEO/CTO Martin Human is of expansion to the DUO line-up.  

He told IDN that "OptiMate 2 DUO is a more powerful 2 amp charger and maintainer, able to charge all powersport batteries faster. It retains the same 'ease of use' features of the OptiMate 1 DUO, but delivers more power, and with more power comes responsibility."
The OptiMate 2 DUO takes responsibility by detecting if a battery is damaged, and if it is, it will then automatically stop charging. This is important for lithium batteries with damaged cells - "they can overheat if charging is continued unabated."

 

For dealers and their customers with multiple vehicles, there are multi-bank options available. The OptiMate 2 DUO x2 can charge two batteries and the OptiMate 2 DUO x4 can charge four batteries of any type and size, simultaneously and independently.
"Preparation of batteries can be done without thinking," says Martin. "Just connect the battery to a station on the OptiMate 2 DUO multi-bank - never mind if it is lithium or lead-acid - and it will charge it up safely and then keep it 'fresh and ready' for sale or use.
"We have recognized that most riders just want their bike to start, never mind the battery type within. That's what our DUO line of chargers delivers - easy 'no brainer' charging. This ease of use has motivated Triumph Motorcycles to choose OptiMate 2 DUO as its new rider charger.
"No buttons, no decisions to make, just hook it up and it automatically charges and maintains that battery!"

TECMATE
www.tecmate.com
www.optimate1.com

Wunderlich

Stefan Nebel becomes Wunderlich Brand Ambassador

In Germany, the name Stefan Nebel is ubiquitous in its association with motorcycle racing. However, there is more to the former German Superstock and two-time German Superbike Champion, race bike developer and test rider and race training instructor than just a name.
There is also 'The Voice'. Nebel is the voice for the millions of race fans who watch MotoGP and World Superbike Championship racing on television, and for those fans he is their technical expert and their ultimate paddock-insider.

Stefan Nebel (left), Wunderlich Brand Ambassador, and Wunderlich Managing Director Frank Hoffmann

Now, Nebel has added 'Wunderlich Brand Ambassador' to his impressive résumé.
Frank Hoffmann, Wunderlich Managing Director, said: "When it comes to our components, the technical aspects play the most important role. The innovation, the quality, the functionality, sustainable manufacturing processes. These are important core competencies that define our brand. I also include sustainable thinking. And the joy of riding, actually the joy of life that motorbikes and motorcycling give us. This is pure emotion.
"Stefan Nebel embodies that spirit, our spirit - our Wunderlich 360° view with his enthusiasm for technology, his emotional attachment to motorcycling, the joy of riding at its best. Not to forget sportsmanship, the courage, the determination to compete and to always improve. In every respect.
"In Stefan we have found a credible representative, someone who reflects our actions, our attitude as a person, as a human being and represents Wunderlich as a company and our portfolio of high-quality BMW motorbike components with credibility and conviction. I am delighted that we were able to win Stefan for Wunderlich and look forward to working with him as a Wunderlich Brand Ambassador."

Engine guard for the new "40 Years of GS" edition R nineT Urban G/S

Recent new products from Wunderlich for 2021 include this "pure and sportive tail conversion design for the BMW F 900 R and XR. The stylistic basic repertoire of Wunderlich includes the always high-quality integrated and slim rear. We offer reduced weight, slimmed down, clean looking tail conversions for a large number of BMW models, and we are very happy with how our design for the F 900 has worked out.
"More minimalist and sportier than the stock rear end, it is ergonomic and tailored to the F 900 frame and doesn't require type approval.
"It replaces the taillight with a reduced, harmoniously integrated version, and the kit's precise fit, shell-shaped rear fairing closes the opening on the underside that appears when the original wheel cover and taillight are removed". The licence plate holder itself is made of stainless steel. The angle of inclination of the number plate is individually adjustable and the mounts from the original turn signals are reused for a fully reversible conversion; plus, the original BMW pannier rack can continue to be used without restriction.
This easy-to-perform conversion changes the appearance of the BMW F 900 R and XR, is completely "Made in Germany" and backed by Wunderlich's 5-year warranty.
Also seen here, for the new "40 Years of GS" edition R nineT Urban G/S, this matching engine guard is based on a technically and visually proven Wunderlich design and made in 2 mm wall thickness, 25 mm precision steel tubing for maximum rigidity with minimum weight.
It is supported at a total of six mounting points so that the energy, forces and moments that occur during external mechanical stress are distributed across the structure with the impact load peaks dissipated.

 

Tail conversion design for the BMW F 900 R and XR

It is another fully reversible Wunderlich design, protects the cylinders, lambda sensors and valve covers and designed for easy access maintenance work and servicing. Backed by a 5-year warranty.
Wunderlich offers a wide range of accessories for the R nineT Urban G/S including an Enduro style rear conversion and 'Rallye' pillion luggage carrier. Designs for all of BMW's "40 Years of GS" editions include engine and tank guards, 'FlowJet' windscreens, 'AktivKomfort' seats with ThermoPro for rider and passenger and practical, folding headlight guards.
www.wunderlich.de

SC-Project

Retro and race style Euro 4 and track slip-ons for the MG V7

Italian exhaust specialist SC-Project has a choice of slip-ons for the  Moto Guzzi V7 III (2017 - 2020) - from Euro 4 approved street legal designs to race only versions - all of which offer increased power, reduced weight and great looks to complement the styling of the popular V7, and all are available in brushed stainless or matt black finish.

Made from AISI 304 stainless steel, the Euro 4 approved 1970s style conical mufflers offer a 3.9 kg weight reduction from the 9 kg originals, feature a welded bracket to attach to the frame and come with dB killer installed.
"The retro style tapered shape delivers a dark, deep sound, and with the mesh at the end of the muffler they offer the perfect fusion between a vintage look and state-of-the-art exhaust and manufacturing technology," says International Sales Manager Michele Balboni.
Two versions of the 'Racer' style conical slip-ons are available - one with Euro 4 approval (seen here) and 3.5 kg weight reduction, and one for race use only (105 dB at 3,100 rpm) with a 5.3 kg weight saving.
They all ship with springs and screws, heat-resistant adhesive, the 24-month SC-Project official warranty and homologation card as appropriate.

SC-PROJECT
www.sc-project.com

D.I.D

D.I.D appoints Valentino Rossi as Global Brand Ambassador

D.I.D has announced that it has appointed Valentino Rossi, the nine-time World Champion and the only road racer to have competed in more than 400 Grand Prix races, as its global brand ambassador.
The three-year partnership will see Rossi promoting the D.I.D brand and D.I.D products worldwide. The agreement also includes collaboration on future product lines, as well as co-developing and co-branding special product lines.
This year will see D.I.D launch two chain series, D.I.D X VR46 and 'The Doctor' - a new chain application designed and test-approved by Rossi. 

"The Doctor series, deriving directly from the D.I.D chain supplied for MotoGP competition, will be particularly prized by the most demanding riders and by refined collectors too - being produced in a very limited edition."
Hirofumi Araya, President of DAIDO KOGYO CO., LTD., commented: "We are extremely pleased to have Valentino Rossi become D.I.D's world brand ambassador. We will use the most innovative materials and technologies to develop chains that can contribute to the performance of a globally recognised and respected sports person like Rossi.
"At the same time, DAIDO will incorporate the latest materials and technologies to co-develop with him the ultimate chains that can be safely used and enjoyed by riders all over the world, so to increase the joy of motorcycle riding."
Araya added: "D.I.D and Valentino share a common, mutual desire to improve riders' performance and contribute to foster the future talents in two-wheel motorsports. For this reason, D.I.D will become a technical partner of the VR46 Academy by supporting all their different race-training activities with the very wide selection of applications available in the D.I.D range."

The collaboration between D.I.D and Rossi will also involve the technical support to SKY Racing Team VR46 for the 2021 and 2022 Moto2 World Championships.
"Fun is a strong driving force in D.I.D. Together with the search for adrenaline, fun is also the essential element for Valentino. This further common mindset has motivated D.I.D to include the VR46 ranch activities into our technical support programme, thus building an all-round global D.I.D and Valentino Rossi collaboration."
Commenting on the announcement, Valentino Rossi said: "I have been using D.I.D on the track with Yamaha for many years, so I am very happy to be able to start this partnership with D.I.D as their expertise and great technology can support me and our VR46 Academy riders on the track and during our training activities."
www.dideu.it

Newfren

Elisabetta Quadrin

A letter from Italy - "Material shortages, freight delays and price increases"

Our thanks to Elisabetta Quadrini at Turin based brakes specialist Newfren for this insight into the challenges now being faced by manufacturers as we get into a second year of business disruption … one example of the effects that they are having on the motorcycle parts industry …

The third wave of pandemic-induced uncertainty is now having compound effects on the difficulties of doing business in many European markets - not least for manufacturers in Italy at this time.
Elisabetta Quadrini of Turin based Newfren told IDN that effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were already having further negative effects as early as November and December 2020, but that in early 2021 those impacts were mounting - just as the riding season was due to get underway.

She described the cumulative impacts after a year of already having endured the consequences of the pandemic as being "like a river in flood".
"The industrial world is struggling with difficulties of many kinds, a consequence of the increasingly challenging and gradually deteriorating circumstances and trends of trying to produce product and conduct business at this time."
Some of the biggest issues are what Elisabetta describes as the "dizzying increases in raw materials pricing, shortages of materials due to the reductions and cancellations of import services by sea freight contractors (the 'Black Sailings') and the lack of manpower due to illness and lockdown.

"We here at Newfren are very lucky. We are coping well with the problems, but we are encountering all these issues. It is especially frustrating because market demand is still high.
"Last December the prices of raw materials on the metal exchanges skyrocketed as a result of the lower 2020 demand from production industries as speculators started to affect the markets.
"In December 2020, aluminium, as one example, saw an increase of around 30% and, above all, there were not a high number of availability options to source it here in Europe.
"Producers like us are now playing a betting game, like the horse races. We are having to become gamblers and compete against the professional multi-billion euro gamblers who speculate on pricing rising and falling.
"We here at Newfren have an excellent, long-term fiduciary relationship with one of the largest European foundries and have the financial capacity to manage the issues - we have opted to purchase several tons of material in advance, so we are able to hedge our risk.
"But not everyone is as lucky, not all manufacturers in the motorcycle industry are in a position to be able to do this.
"This has secured our price-point and allowed us to manage the costs - although still at increased levels. Above all it has allowed us to manage availability and plan how we feed the production lines and meet the demands of the market.
"We also saw substantial increases in pricing and reductions of availability for the steel we buy in Japan for Newfren brake discs. We have always made sure we use the best possible materials, so again, that was another example of having to invest heavily in advance so we could secure enough raw material to cover anticipated 2021 demand.

"Managing financial resources, even if it means freezing some budgets, is the only way manufacturers can manage materials resources. Even the usually least expensive and most readily available steels have been subject to cost and supply issues - steel of the kind used for brake pad backing plates for example.
"That has been a stable raw material in terms of price and availability for as long as we can remember, but even that is subject to daily price and availability fluctuations.
"The effects of 'Black Sailings' isn't only driving up freight costs, but driving down freight service availability and timings. Uncertainty is the enemy for any manufacturer, and that is another factor that has made us have to make courageous choices in terms of orders for materials from the Far East.
"Even now as I write, the cancellations of import services by sea and skyrocketing freight costs are requiring the use of additional resources in the management of purchase planning.
"We, indeed all manufacturers, need to ask the market to accept price increases on finished product as a consequence of all these factors, and those who are able to build inventory would be wise to do so. But they must make sure they are using great planning skills to ensure they can respond adequately and appropriately to all their customers.
"Newfren continues to look at 2021 with positivity - which is why our management has been prepared to bet, invest and use all their experience and the traditions that Newfren has built up in over seventy years in order to win. For the moment, the bets made in purchasing the raw materials are guaranteeing that our customers are facing very few delays in our response to their needs.
"But a lot also depends on the motorcycle and scooter markets continuing to grow. It is a bittersweet irony that our industry has seen demand sustain, and even increase at a time when so many businesses are challenged, and so many lives are disrupted. We must all continue to plan carefully and take nothing for granted."

Stat Attack

 

German YTD motorcycle registrations (January and February) were -26.87% at 10,017 units. However, the IVM data is distorted by the Euro 4/Euro 5 pre-registration issue and sales in Germany (and elsewhere) are being affected by ongoing coronavirus pandemic impacts. Total PTW registrations in Germany were -33.19% for the first two months (13,446 units), having been -56.33% in January and -21.40% in February. In motorcycle market share terms, BMW remained leader with an improved share (38.67%/3,874 units YTD), followed by Honda and KTM. BMW had ten models in the top twenty best sellers. The top-seller was the R 1250 GS (1,400 units), followed by the Kawasaki Z900 and the BMW S 1000 XR third.

New motorcycle registrations were -7.76% in Italy for the first two months of 2021 (14,514 units), with total PTW registrations for the same period put at -3.79% (31,569) units - of which 17,055 were categorised as Scooters (-0.22% from the same period of last year). The top selling Scooter so far in 2021 has been the Piaggio 3W Delivery (1,886 units sold), followed by the Honda SH 125 and 150 (1,493 and 1,291 units respectively) and the Honda X-ADV 750 (971 units). The new top-of-the-range Honda Forza 750 saw 576 units sold YTD. The best selling motorcycle was the BMW R 1250 GS (718 units), followed by the Benelli TRK 502/X (629) and the R 1250 GS Adventure (536). The top selling Ducati in its home market YTD was the much acclaimed V4 Streetfighter.

New motorcycle registrations were -28.99% for the first two months of 2021 in Spain (17,888 units), with total PTW registrations -31.90% at 19,695 units YTD. That compares to 28,919 units for the same period in 2020 and 24,657 units for the first two months of 2019. The top selling models in Spain YTD have been the Yamaha NMAX 125 and the Kymco Agility City 125. Honda remains overall market share leader with 20.5% of the Spanish market (3,660 units), followed by Yamaha, BMW, Kymco and Piaggio. For the record, full year new motorcycle registrations in Spain were +11.07% in 2019 (at 175,585 units) and -11.55% in 2020 (155,298 units). Total PTW registrations were +12.17% (194,663 units) for 2019 and -9.23% (176,691 units) for 2020.

As elsewhere in Europe, the new motorcycle registration data for Poland for 2020 is distorted because of the Euro 4/5 crossover and ongoing pandemic impacts. The latest data from the motorcycle industry trade association in Poland (PZPM) shows new motorcycle registrations at -26.40% (1,316 units) for the first two months of 2021, with total new PTW registrations at -38.85% YTD (2,018 units), having been +31.06% for the first two month of 2020 (3,300 units). The total number of new and used motorcycles sold in January and February was 7,402 units (-26.89%) and the total number of new and used PTWs sold in Poland in the first two months was 9,062 units (-28.83%). For the record - full year new motorcycle registrations for Poland in 2019 were +31.53% (19,103 units), with the total of all new and used PTWs at +12.35% (113,650 units in total). For 2020 new motorcycle registrations for Poland were 21,815 units (+14.20%), with total new PTW sales +4.91% (40,155 units).

UK motorcycle registrations were put at -40.26% for January and February at 5,953 units; total PTW registrations were -38.01 YTD at 6,624 units. For the record - new motorcycle registrations in the UK were -3.91% for 2020 (96,539 units), having been +0.72% (100,472 units) in 2019; total PTW registrations were -2.83% for 2020 (103,665 units), having been +1.44% (106,688 units) in 2019.

The latest new registration data released by Swiss industry association MotoSuisse shows total new motorcycle registrations for January and February 2021 +47.16% on 3,264 units, with total PTW sales +27.12% at 5,058 units. In motorcycle market share terms, Yamaha is top for the YTD, followed by BMW, Kawasaki, KTM and Honda. The top selling model in Switzerland is the Yamaha MT-125, followed by the Malaguti XSM 125. Owned since 2018 by KSR in Austria, Malaguti is in 6th place in market share terms in Switzerland YTD and has replaced Vespa as the top selling Scooter brand. The top selling large displacement machine is the Kawasaki Z 900, followed by the BMW R 1250 GS. For the record, total motorcycle sales were 29,450 units in 2020 (+21.65%), having been -1.35% at 24,209 units in 2019; total PTW sales were +17.43% in 2020 (49,783 units), having been -1.79% (42,392 units) in 2019.

The latest data available from the McRF in Sweden shows that (on extremely low volumes) new motorcycle registrations in January and February were -45.25% at 617 units, having been +44.86% for the year ago period at 1,127 units. Total new PTW registrations were -59.61% at 904 units. For the record, full year 2020 cumulative new motorcycle registrations were +23.48% at 14,798 units, having been +2.31% (11,984 units) in 2019; total new PTW registrations for the 2020 full year were +48.19% (37,739 units), having been -8.65% (25,467 units) in 2019.


Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news, RideApart.com, Motor1.com, Cycle World, motorbikewriter.com