Duell Oyj

Finland based Duell acquires Dutch MX specialist distributor TMV

Duell Oyj, the fast-growing Finland based distributor and brand owner, has continued its acquisition programme with the addition of Techno Motor Veghel BV (TMV) to its international network.
A well-known Dutch importer and distributor of motocross and off-road products, TMV was founded in 1976 and is based in the so-called motocross hub of the Netherlands, Veghel, where it is surrounded by numerous well-known motocross tracks and motorcycle industry vendors. 

TMV CEO Herman Zijerveld (left) with Jarkko Ämmälä, CEO of Duell Oyj (center), and Klaas Biermann (right), the owner of TMV.

As a leading distributor of powersports products in the Nordic aftermarket, Duell has leveraged its strength in northern Europe to embark on an ambitious expansion plan in recent years.
In 2019, Duell bought the previously Swedish owned Halvarssons and Lindstrands apparel brands. After deciding to establish its own UK Duell subsidiary, it added Netherlands based IGM Trading and Grand Canyon GmbH in 2021, followed by acquiring the French Tecno Globe accessory business. 

Duell's growth was dramatic even before the recent additions to its network - in 2020 the company reported sales growth from € 25m in 2013 to € 60m in 2020. Last year saw another significant step in Duell's history as the company was listed on the Helsinki Nasdaq First North Growth market at the end of the year and reports that "Duell's first quarter as a listed company got off to a good start as the company reported strong revenue growth".
Jarkko Ämmälä, CEO of Duell Oyj, commented on the TMV acquisition, saying: "We are very pleased with the acquisition we have just completed, which will again strengthen our position in Europe, this time especially in the motocross market.
"TMV is a very strong and well-known player in motocross, so the transaction is very important for us. We are actively seeking growth in the European market and are now one step closer to achieving our goal. All TMV employees are moving to Duell, and we are delighted to have more top talent joining us. Together, we will accelerate the growth of our company in the Benelux region and elsewhere in Europe.”

The TMV acquisition follows a series of expansion moves, including a decision to open its own subsidiary in the UK, the acquisition of IGM Trading (also Netherlands), followed by Tecno Globe in France and a Finland stock market listing at the end of 2021.

For TMV, previously a sister company of off-road foam air filter specialist Twin Air, CEO Herman Zijerveld commented: "We are looking forward to the future collaboration, and are proud to be part of the Duell success story.
"By combining Scandinavian strength with Dutch commercial expertise, we can make the most of this collaboration. Duell's determined attitude fits perfectly with TMV's ambitions, so I am confident that together we will grow faster than we ever imagined and better serve our customers, partners and employees."
www.duell.fi
www.tmv.nl

German motorcycle registrations

German motorcycle registrations -11.90% 2021

While most of Europe's 'Big Five' major markets (Italy, France, Spain, UK) are showing PTW registration growth in 2021, Germany is the exception.
Data from the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany, shows 2021 full year new motorcycle registrations having been down in Germany by -11.90% (116,407 units). This is up compared to the pre-pandemic levels seen in Germany in 2019 (113,039 units), but down against 2020 (132,126) as a result of what appeared at the time to be a disproportionately strong German market recovery surge in the second half of 2020.

In total PTW terms, the German market was -9.71% (197,540 units) compared to 218,778 units in 2020 and 165,311 units in 2019. For context though, 2021 has remained a "good year" for the German market - in motorcycle sales terms, 2021 was the third strongest year since before the 2008-2010 financial crisis and was the second best since then in total PTW terms.
BMW remained motorcycle (and overall) market share leader with 26,699 motorcycle units sold for a 22.94% market share - BMW had eight models in the top twenty-five best sellers in 2021.
Honda was second (12.42% share/14,459 units sold), KTM third (11.74% share, 13,664 units), Kawasaki fourth (10.47% share, 12,191 units) and Yamaha fifth (7.5% share, 8,730 units), followed by Harley-Davidson, Ducati, Triumph, Suzuki and Husqvarna.
Unsurprisingly, the top selling model was BMW's R 1250 GS (9,377 units sold), followed by the Kawasaki Z900 and Z650 in second and third, Yamaha MT-07 in fourth, just ahead of Honda's CRF1100L Africa Twin in fifth.
For the record - the 2020 full year saw the German motorcycle market grow by +16.89% with 132,126 units sold (theoretically), compared to 2019 at 113,039 units. However, that apparent 16.89% growth in the worst pandemic-hit year was distorted in the final quarter of 2020 by the rush to pre-register unsold Euro 4 models before the December 31st final extended deadline for doing so - all units registered since January 1st, 2021, have been Euro 5 compliant machines.

Spanish motorcycle registrations

Spanish motorcycle registrations +6.26% in 2021

The latest data from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, shows new motorcycle registrations up by +6.26% in 2021 with 165,113 motorcycles and scooters sold. The Spanish market has not yet caught up with 2019 registrations though when 175,585 units were recorded as sold.

However, 2021 was the second best (behind 2019) motorcycle and scooter market performance in Spain since before 2009.
In total PTW terms, 2021 was +3.22% in Spain at 182,854 new units registered - some 12,000 units behind 2019, but also the second best since before the 2008/2010 financial crisis. The moped market in Spain was worth 17,714 units in 2021 (-18.48%).
The ANESDOR data shows 6,654 electric units registered in 2021, which is down -10.3% on 2020.

Honda is overall market share leader in Spain, with 36,333 units sold in total in Spain in 2021 for a 22.0% market share. Yamaha is second (14.56% share), BMW third (7.3% share), Piaggio fourth (6.9%) and KYMCO fifth (6.4%).
The top-selling model in 2021 in Spain was the Honda PCX 125, followed by the Yamaha NMAX 125, Honda SH 125I and the Piaggio Liberty IGET ABS in fifth spot.

Norton Motorcycles

Ex Norton boss going to prison?

According to the Guardian newspaper in the UK, disgraced Norton Motorcycles owner Stuart Garner could be facing up to two years in jail over breaches of pensions rules.
He admitted three offences of illegally investing millions of pounds of pension savings into his business at Derby Magistrates Court in early February 2020.

Ex Norton boss Stuart Garner found guilty of pension fund fraud

Garner acquired the classic marque in 2008 and was supported by a series of UK government ministers and publicly financed business assistance and promotion organisations before the company slumped into administration in January 2020 - leaving pension fund holders owed about £14m.
In June 2020, Garner was ordered to pay the money back after the pensions regulator in the UK had ruled that he acted "dishonestly".
It is understood the pension holders are still waiting for any of their funds to be returned.
Garner is due to be sentenced at Derby Crown Court on Monday, February 28th.

Triumph Motorcycles

Triumph doing well?

The latest annual results for Triumph Motorcycles (to 30 June 2021) display a remarkable degree of recovery from the Covid pandemic’s early depredations. But the brand may have done even better, according to BDN's Financial Editor Roger Willis.
According to the Triumph Motorcycles directors’ report, overall turnover during this 12-month period grew by 25.8% to £502.3m. Within that, the UK revenue contribution was 18.7% up to £69.9m. The rest of Europe yielded a 27.3% rise to £234.1m. North America added 58.4% to £116.5m, while the rest of the world fell by 1.1% to £81.8m.

Global yearly motorcycle sales volume stacked on an impressive 44.6% to 70,838. Some 86.1% of these machines were sold overseas.
But distribution and admin costs still overwhelmed a gross profit of £50.2m to result in an operating loss of £6.5m and net loss of £7.9m - recovering from a horrendous operating loss of £44.2m and net loss of £35.8m in the previous fiscal year.
However, the annual strategic and directors’ reports covering the same period for Bloor Investments, the ultimate parent of Triumph Motorcycles, plus large-scale house construction and plant hire businesses, tell an entirely different story.
This version of events kicks off by saying: “The year’s profitability to 30 June 2021 has been primarily driven by the £95m turnaround of the Triumph business from a loss off £40m to a profit of £55m.”
All the numbers for what is identified as Triumph Motorcycles Group are variant. Triumph’s turnover apparently climbed by 27.8% to £613.2m, delivering a pre-tax profit of £50.1m - against a loss of £40m a year earlier. Sales volume was 40.5% up to 76,438 bikes and 88.6% of them were purchased overseas.
Presumably such figures came from inputs to which nobody outside the enigmatic John Bloor’s inner sanctum is party. Could they be associated with recently migrating to an offshore tax jurisdiction? As of August 2021, Bloor senior relocated from rural Wales to take up residence in Guernsey.

Motoz

Motoz Tractionator DualVenture tyre - now available

Motoz is a proud Australian brand producing off-road tyres at the forefront of design and technology.
The history of the brand is rooted in frustration at not being able to get motorcycle tyres that performed and delivered durability and reliability. Deciding to do something about it, the answer was MOTOZ - a unique and uniquely specialised enduro, desert, adventure, hybrid and motocross tyre range. 

After a highly successful launch, the most versatile front tyre in the Motoz line-up - the Tractionator DualVenture (DV) - has been in huge demand ever since. Built to hammer out the miles, it is aggressive enough for an off-road tyre to handle any adventure you choose and smooth enough for any long-distance street tour. 

"Its DNA is part desert race tyre and part long distance adventure touring tyre. This front tyre is designed for predominantly off-road performance at a 70% off-road/30% on-road ratio with a versatile compound that is high in silica content for optimal grip in mud and snow conditions.
"Where the DualVenture separates itself from the rest of the competition is the bi-directional/reversible tread pattern and a self-cleaning and self-sharpening tread pattern that will increase durability. This tyre will allow the rider to switch the direction of it to be able to get the absolute most out of the rubber and counteract adverse wear."
Well respected motorcycling enthusiast, Phoenix, Arizona based Manybikes Kyle Bradshaw from MotoCity Powersports put these tyres to the test and he was amazed by their overall performance. “It gives great traction, great feedback and bite going straight through the desert in all sorts of desert terrains from deep sand to rocky rocks and even goes good in the rain!”
The available sizes (DOT) are 90/90-21 tube type; 90/90B21 tubeless; 110/80B19 tubeless and 120/70B19 tubeless.

MOTOZ PTY LTD
www.motoz.com.au

Wind Trading

Ravenna Maxi-Enduro apparel

Launched worldwide in 2019, the Italian Ravenna motorcycle collection (from Wind Trading) entered the highly competitive but growing Maxi-Enduro riding gear market with a "winning combination" of style, features and value.
Specified for the needs of Maxi-Enduro riders, the versatile, comfortable three-layer Ravenna J-1771 jacket has an outer shell made of strong 600D PU coated fabric. Featuring a removable, breathable and rainproof membrane lining, and removable thermal lining, it has air circulation vents, two outer pockets, inside pockets, hip adjusters and width adjusters at the upper and lower elbow arms area.

For safety there are removable shoulder and elbow CE protections, a back hi-impact foam shield and reflective hi-visibility prints on front, back and sleeves.
The coordinated and matching Ravenna P-1772 pants feature the same materials and construction characteristics such as removable, breathable and rainproof membrane lining, with the addition of stretch panels on the back and knees, removable memory foam CE protectors in the knee and hip area, air circulation vents on thighs and roomy front pockets.
The jacket and pants combo is available in five colour combinations.

For dealers looking to access a comprehensive value-points programme, the Ravenna line also includes one and two-piece leather racing suits, leather sport-touring jackets, all-seasons textile jackets and pants and a range of entry level textile jackets and gloves, which can be complemented by the broad selection of Wind Trading's popular W2 riding boot styles and solutions.
Entirely conceived, specified and designed in Italy, Ravenna Motorcycle Fashion is backed by the nearly 40 years of industry knowledge and experience that Wind Trading puts behind everything it sells - which means it knows what sells and at what price-point.
The Ravenna collection is a "quality programme at a fair price", according to CEO John Boni and offers "full margins for dealers and importers/distributors. Aimed at touring and adventure riders, with additional designs for scooterists and track racers, "for all sectors, the emphasis is on quality, design, safety, performance and value."

WIND TRADING SRL
www.ravenna-moto.com

STM

ARTEdaCORSA

Though not a recent technology, and once considered the preserve of dry clutches and big twins, slipper clutches (also known as a back-torque limiter) are now ubiquitous in high performance wet clutch applications, largely thanks to Turin based STM...

 

Coincidentally, leading Italian performance clutch specialist STM originally started out in business at just around the same time that the ill-fated NR500 was being parked in a dark corner of shame at Honda - having failed to prove that four-stroke motorcycles could mix it and win against the then dominant two strokes when it made its 1979 race debut.

In fact, the NR500 featured many firsts and advanced, even experimental features - such as oval pistons, a monocoque frame, inverted telescopic forks, carbon brakes, rising rate rear suspension linkages and, which is where the STM story eventually comes into this story - a slipper clutch.

Valerio Gaffuri, CEO

STM started out as a manufacturer of components for robotics and measuring instruments, and while that gave the company an excellent foundation as a high-quality precision manufacturer, it didn't migrate towards the two-wheel industry until the 1990s, starting first of all with the production of special high-strength, lightweight components for bicycles. 

 

Dry conversion kit for Ducati Hypermotard 950

Very soon after that a prototype of the company's future anti-slip clutch was developed, and with two Superbike world titles achieved after it made a debut on Ducati's race bikes, STM's pathway to future success was mapped out.
The concept of the slipper clutch is quite straightforward. A slipper clutch (also known as a back-torque limiter) has an integrated freewheel mechanism to control and reduce the effects of engine braking under deceleration. It also reduces wear and tear on the engine and transmission, thereby improving its durability. A slipper clutch prevents the rear wheel from locking up, eliminating "hopping" and improving the performance and handling - especially under deceleration and cornering. 

The main purpose of a slipper clutch is to prevent engine over-revving and rear wheel hop (or chatter), especially under hard braking. It does so by partially slipping until an engine's speed matches with the vehicle's speed.
A straightforward concept it may be, but designing and manufacturing products to achieve that goal is anything but straightforward. The three most important characteristics needed in the design, materials and production processes are quality, quality and quality.
The slipper clutch consists of two bases, one with dog clutches and ramps with ball bearings, a splined hub and clutch plates. In normal operation, the dog clutches mate, driving the transmission. When a back torque comes from the transmission, the splined hub slides up the bearing ramps, disconnecting from the clutch plates and allowing a limited "slip" between input and output.

Team HRC riders Alvaro Bautista and Leon Haslam

Special Dark Edition EVO-GP - dry conversion kit for Ducati Diavel

It will partially disengage or "slip" when the rear wheel tries to drive the engine faster than it would run under its own power. The engine braking forces in conventional clutches will normally be transmitted back along the drive chain, causing the rear wheel to hop, chatter or lose traction. This is especially noted on larger displacement four-stroke engines, which have greater engine braking than the company's two-stroke or smaller displacement counterparts.
Slipper clutches eliminate this extra loading on the rear suspension - giving riders a more predictable ride and minimising the risk of over-revving the engine during downshifts. Slipper clutches can also prevent a catastrophic rear wheel lock-up in the case of engine seizure. Generally, the amount of force needed to disengage the clutch is adjustable to suit the application.

CLG clutch

By transferring the technology developed, and the experience gained on the track of slipper clutch designs for mass-produced models, the era of anti-friction clutches began and STM was very quickly accepted as an innovator and leader of a nascent but important niche market.
While Honda's ill-fated NR500 (the New Racer 500 - or, as many nicknamed it at the time, the "Never Ready" 500) failed to realise Honda founder Soichiro Honda's dreams of marking the company's return to racing by "sticking it" to the two strokers, much of the then advanced technology deployed on the NR500 has passed into the mainstream.
In the case of the slipper clutch, its moment came in 2003 when STM took the critical step of applying its anti-skid technology to oil-immersed clutches for the first time and BOOM! That would see the slipper clutch concept take its place alongside many of the other advanced ideas seen on the experimental NR500.
Embracing the apparently unlikely environment of the wet clutch with anti-slip technology greatly extended STM's market opportunity, and collaboration with the Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki and BMW teams has resulted in the development of cutting-edge products that combine component durability and reliability with precision and performance.
In that same year, 2003, STM also made its slipper clutch debut in the world of Motocross and Supermotard - receiving instant acclaim and immediately contributing to many victories.
In 2017, STM Italy achieved UNI EN ISO 9001:2015 standard compliance - providing its OEM, distributor, dealer and race shop customers and riders with the confidence of knowing that its products are backed by the ultimate Quality Management System certification.
Materials excellence is central to the reliability and performance that STM achieves, using Ergal (zinc-aluminium alloy), low silicon content Anticorodal alloys with outstanding mechanical properties, electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance, stainless steel and titanium; all machining is on in-house CNC mills.

STM at EICMA 2019

In a world of profound technological transformation, the STM vision will remain at the forefront of anti-friction technology development, anticipating and shaping the future with innovative solutions and market-leading manufacturing quality for MotoGP, WSBK, Motocross and Supermotard racers.
The company says it will also now start to leverage its competencies and reputation as it expands its aftermarket performance parts and components programmes through continuous improvement, one step at a time. KAIZEN.

STM
www.stmitaly.com

Sifam Group

S-Line Fibre 'Revenge'

Based near Nice in southern France, the Sifam Group (founded in 1994 by Pierre Manuel) has a number of fast-growing own and independent brand apparel programmes for which it is the exclusive distributor.

Combining design with high-end technology, the S-Line 'Revenge' is described as a "new challenger to the established order of helmets in the Sport-Touring segment.
"Designed for the demanding biker, no compromise has been made with its composite fibre shell, ensuring an ultra-lightweight helmet at just 1,380 g."
It features a Pinlock mounted lens as standard, with an aluminium micrometric buckle and optional photochromic screen available. Available in sizes XS to XL and in five different colours.
Sifam is one of the best known France based motorcycle parts, accessory, gear and apparel distributors with a wide range of famous name and own brand products available from its 10,000 sq m headquarters warehouse.
Sales Manager Joao Ramos says the company is looking for new dealers in England, Germany and Benelux - enquiries can be sent to him by email.

SIFAM
www.sifam.fr

Pyramid Plastics

Yamaha MT-09 accessory pack

UK bodywork specialist Pyramid Plastics is offering dealers a comprehensive aftermarket accessory pack for the 2021 Yamaha MT-09.
These new parts are designed to protect the bike and make it a more practical all-year machine, as well as adding bespoke styling and colour matching so riders can add personalised custom touches to their bike.

Pyramid’s range now includes the headlight guard, handguards, tail tidy, radiator guard, fly screen, seat cowl, hugger, tail rack, pillion blanking blocks, shock shield, decal set, 'Extenda Fenda' and hugger extensions.

"At Pyramid our focus is on creating bespoke parts that cater for all types of riders and their machine. Whether that be providing ultimate protection for all-weather riders or eye-catching paint matched bodywork - everything is designed, manufactured and hand-painted right here in our UK facility."

Pyramid also stocks the full Puig, Ermax, CustomAcces, GBRacing and Pro-Race ranges and has a new trade website for dealers and distributors.

PYRAMID PLASTICS
www.pyramid-plastics.co.uk

SC-Project

SC-Project - 2022 Aprilia MotoGP exhaust systems technical partner

The progress that Stefano Lavazza and Marco De Rossi have made with their SC-Project exhaust business since it was founded in 2006 has been remarkable. Their race credentials speak to the exhaustive R&D, high-tech manufacturing processes, testing and quality control that the company invests in - in race conditions as well as on the street.
In 2020, SC-Project embarked on a collaboration with Aprilia, initially with the supply of exhaust systems for the Aprilia RS 250 SP Trophy. In 2021, this was extended to include exhaust systems for the Aprilia RS 660 Trophy.

Now, for 2022, SC-Project is to be the official exhaust supplier for the RS-GP in the top tier of global racing - the MotoGP class.
Officially a factory team from this year, after months of testing and development work, Aprilia Racing has chosen SC-Project as its supplier of full exhaust system for its 2022 MotoGP effort - with the new RS-GP 2022 now a real factory bike - managed directly by the Aprilia Factory Team.
"The exhaust system for the new Aprilia RS-GP 2022 is totally manufactured inside our headquarters facilities near Milan," says Stefano. "Our aim is to make this project a case study in Italian design, engineering and manufacturing excellence - the exhaust is a full titanium system and is equipped with an exhaust valve - entirely machined from a solid block of titanium - developed in-house by SC-Project’s Race Department engineers."
Marco added that "this component is a technological masterpiece and throughout the electronic management of the bike allows an advanced and extremely precise management of the engine brake of the motorcycle, a fundamental aspect for the high performance and the huge power of the new RS-GP.
"All our SC-Project staff are excited about this new and important partnership between two Italian companies, and we are both dedicated to show what an Italian partnership can achieve at the top level of worldwide motorcycle competition, the MotoGP World Championship.
"Aprilia Racing has an illustrious racing legacy, having won 54 world titles - we are ready to help them add a new chapter to the Italian racing story."
www.sc-project.com

Athena

Athena - GET with the green programme

Italian high-performance parts specialist Athena (Alonte, VI, Italy) has renewed its packaging for its GET brand parts - maximising the eco-friendly qualities of the materials and processes used.
GET is well known worldwide for its innovative racing ECUs, data loggers, smart and power tools for motorbikes. The new packaging being used is the latest in an ongoing sequence of initiatives and changes that Athena is making to its business procedures to make it more environmentally responsible and to comply with current environmental regulations.

The regulations require a labelling that clearly identifies the materials of the packaging to facilitate proper disposal. Space optimisation, plastics reduction and new dedicated graphics are the main features of the new GET packaging.
All the boxes have been designed to optimise the shipments and their internal compartments have been revised to better protect the products and the accessories.
In addition to the new GET packaging, Athena has also presented new product manuals that have been revised in terms of both graphics and contents, with all the additional information necessary for the correct installation and use of the product.
In addition, Athena has updated the manuals to reduce paper consumption. The GET packaging will only contain the main manuals in their traditional printed form, leaving space for a new, dedicated online landing page for additional specific information about the use and the installation of the materials.
End users will be able to easily access the additional materials by scanning a QR code on the packaging.
www.athenaparts.com

Vertex

GP-Racer's Choice - the pistons of champions

Returning from the successes achieved in the 2021 off-road season, where they won eight world championship awards, the Vertex GP-Racer's Choice pistons opened the new year by winning the MX1 and Supercampione titles of the Internationals of Italy with Tim Gajser riding the factory Honda HRC.

This line of pistons represents the top of the Vertex range for 4-stroke off-road bikes, "and this is yet another confirmation of the quality and performance that they ensure, thanks to their development in the Grand Prix alongside the most prestigious motocross, enduro and Supermoto factory riders.

 

"They stand out for the DLC coated piston pin construction in hot forged VP-310 alloy, for the segment kit in chromed or nitride steel (depending on the application), for the Formula 1 derived bearing crosspiece and for the exclusive shape of the head which, while increasing performance, maintains optimal reliability."
The GP-Racer's Choice pistons are available for all the most popular cross, enduro and Supermoto models - including the 2022 versions.
www.vertexpistons.com

Touratech

Touratech for KTM 1290 Super Adventure

German ADV parts and accessory specialist Touratech has added to its already extensive range of accessories for the KTM 1290 Super Adventure, with numerous additional parts being developed regularly.
With any tourer, especially a dual-purpose machine, protection equipment is a 'no brainer' for any rider who wants to keep their bike in good condition, and KTM has equipped the R version of the 1290 Super Adventure with a crash bar as standard, but not for the recently introduced entry-level standard model.

To complement the factory accessory, Touratech offers an extension that provides additional protection for the fairing, as well as a tried and tested 'Expedition' engine guard manufactured from folded ultra-robust aluminium sheeting, which does double duty as a skid plate thanks to the plastic rails on its underside.
Additional protection includes headlight and hand protectors; as an option for its proven plastic hand protector, the 1290 can also be fitted with the high-end 'Defensa' protector - a super-robust, forged aluminium bracket protects the handlebar fittings and hands - which can be upgraded with plastic shells and spoilers to provide suitable weather protection for touring. ABS sensor and rear brake fluid reservoir protectors are also available.
Touratech's core product lines are luggage systems - the company has adapted its popular category-defining ZEGA Evo X aluminium pannier system for the 1290 SA, which makes effective use of the available space by fitting the rack and panniers around the rear silencer - combining maximum volume with minimum overall width.
The racks are made of 18 mm thick stainless steel tubing, the panniers of 1.5 mm thick aluminium sheet, equipped with what is widely regarded as one of the most robust one-handed fastening systems. A system with a straight standard rack will additionally be available soon.
Selected additional options include adjustable/folding mirrors, 'Pivot Pegz' articulated Mk IV footpegs, CruzTools KTM-specific tool sets, folding brake levers, brake lever extensions, 25 mm type 37 risers, tank and handlebar bags and radiator and chain guards.

TOURATECH GMBH
www.touratech.com

Cardo Systems

Cardo updates product range

Cardo Systems, the wireless helmet communication specialist for powersports riders, has announced a brand-new range of Bluetooth communicators.
Featuring what Cardo claims is "the most advanced Bluetooth 5.2 chip on the market," new features include over-the-air software updates - meaning no cords or cables are needed - and fast charging via USB-C, which can deliver a two-hour top up charge in as little as 20 minutes.

"The Cardo Spirit is a brand-new product line that delivers all the qualities that made Cardo recognisable as the high-quality brand it is today. Powered by the latest Bluetooth technology, it brings all the essentials needed by a rider and combines them with unprecedented attention to detail, build quality and durability, including the ability to connect two riders at up to a quarter of a mile."

 

The higher-spec Cardo Spirit includes "high-quality sound from powerful 40 mm HD speakers, FM radio and 13 hours talk time.
"While the waterproof Cardo Freecom 2x establishes itself as the firm favourite in the line-up for mid-range - the best Bluetooth communicator for two riders - added benefits include premium sound by JBL, live intercom and analogue jog-dial, live intercom, an auto-reconnecting Bluetooth connection for two riders and over-the-air software updates."
At the top of its new range, Cardo claims that its Freecom 4x is "the world’s best, fully featured Bluetooth communicator with a range of three-quarters of a mile for up to four riders. All the benefits and features you'd expect from Cardo are standard with the addition of an auto-reconnecting Bluetooth connection for four riders."

CARDO SYSTEMS
www.cardosystems.com

Yoshimura

Triumph Trident AT2 Race Series exhaust

The middleweight class has more options than for decades for today's riders, and Triumph has added to the choice with the Trident - an entry level 660 cc triple with nice power and torque as well as value. 

"The new triple is packed with potential," says Yoshimura R&D of America's 'Big E' Erick Bartoldus, "and we were excited to start development on this new British naked platform. Closely related to the Triumph 675 Daytona motor, this new triple was just asking for more power. The stock exhaust is a one-piece unit which required a Race Series full system.

"Our development team set out to develop the Trident with the AT2, our newest high-performance muffler. The system is part of our Race Series line-up, which means it's made to be used on a closed course. Perfect, this bike will be a great track day and race day bike."
Yoshimura says that maximum horsepower is increased by +6.9% with its new exhaust, with maximum up by +1.3%. "Some of our 'secret sauce' is in the collector," says Erick. "We were able to incorporate a specially designed pre-muffler that enhances the power and adds unique and distinctly 'Yoshi' exhaust notes to the all-new British Trident.

"The weight saving is substantial, dropping almost half the weight of the stock system, the AT2 works finish full system coming in at a nice 9.1 lbs (4.13 kg). With lighter weight, making this already light machine handle better and with enhanced power throughout the rev range, our AT2 full system will be the benchmark for racers worldwide."

YOSHIMURA R&D
www.yoshimura-rd.com

Hornig

Hornig additions

German BMW parts and accessory specialist Hornig continues to add to its growing range of parts and accessories for BMW models with a wide selection of replacement and custom upgrade options for current BMW models …

Inside bag - S 1000 XR (2020-)

 

These bags help riders to load and unload their cases. Equipped with a carry chord, small parts or papers can be carried in the outer pocket. Made in a water-repellent material.

Cooler screen - R 18

 

Custom oil cooler protection with these high-quality aluminium covers made with a special protective aluminium alloy.

Tail lift kit - R 18

 

Increased ground clearance, improved handling and a higher sitting stance for BMW's entry into the heavy cruiser segment with this tail raising kit that shortens the wheelbase for a more agile and more sportier handling and the rider will sit a bit higher. Raising the rear by 15 mm, the ground clearance of the driver's footrests is increased by 10 to 12 mm; EU street homologation in preparation.

Handlebar risers - S 1000 XR (2020-)

 

Raising the handlebar by 25 mm results in a more upright, much more relaxed sitting position and considerably improves driving comfort. The overall result is a noticeable increase in stamina and concentration. The length of the brake line etc. must be checked individually. The clutch cable has to be pulled out of the vehicle a little bit. The stock brake line is also short - we recommend our 4 cm extension adapter; ships with EU street homologation; fits handlebars with a diameter of 28 mm.

Handlebar risers with offset - F800R (2015-2019)

 

In addition to raising the handlebar by 30 mm, these risers with offset also bring the handlebar 25 mm closer to the rider, resulting in a much more relaxed, ergonomic and natural riding stance. The lengths of the hoses will need checking and adapters used.

Engine guard - S 1000 RR/XR/R

 

This three-part engine guard set is made in ultra-light 4 mm polypropylene and consists of the right and left crankcase and an alternator cover. The caps protect the engine case and the alternator against damages, have a matt black finish and are screwed onto the engine case.

MOTORCYCLE PARTS HORNIG
www.motorcycleparts-hornig.com

K-Tech

K-Tech 5-way adjustable DDS "Pro"

This 5-way adjustable K-Tech DDS "Pro" rear shock has been designed "for use at the highest level of racing and developed in major championships around the world".
Like all other K-Tech products, it has been designed and manufactured in the UK using the latest design software and the "highest grade materials". As you would expect from a high-quality racing product, the DDS "Pro" features 32 'clicks' of compression and rebound damping adjustment, length adjustment and hydraulic spring preload adjustment.

"It also features our unique ByPass Valve adjuster (16 'clicks') which controls both compression and rebound damping adjustment to assist with chassis control at very low velocity shock movement to enhance tyre feel and grip."
The DDS technology (Direct Damping System) uses a small piston rod which keeps the system more stable over a wider temperature range due to its small displacement. Damping is controlled by a 32 mm piston which allows the use of larger shims for improved feel.
There are potentiometer mounting points and a wide range of spring rates available. K-Tech says that the DDS "Pro" has been used "at the highest levels of racing including British Superbike and Isle of Man TT".

K-TECH SUSPENSION
www.ktechsuspension.com

Oxford Products

Armourlite single layer AAA jeans

Available in straight leg or slim fit, Oxford Products' Armourlite single layer, lightweight bi-composite stretch denim jeans are AAA rated and come with Dynamic slim profile CE Level 2 hip protectors and internal pockets for Dynamic level 2 CE knee protectors (EN 1621-1:2012).
Oxford says that "material innovation has been the priority with our Original Approved performance denim - built from new yarn and fibre technologies with new dying techniques and finishes.

"After continuous testing, both in the lab and out on the road, Armourlite has proven to be an exceptionally durable denim that maintains its vintage look and softness. To achieve this, we worked with skilled weavers and warpers to include a polyamide fibre into the weave - a hard-wearing material originally developed by the military for parachute cords.
"A two-way stretch was added to enhance mobility and comfort. We also included a quick dry technology, which draws sweat and increases water repellence."
Additional features include triple needle stitched seams, fully felled seat, durable twill riveted pockets, ultra-secure belt loops, reinforced lined yoke and lined back pockets.

OXFORD PRODUCTS
www.oxfordproducts.com

Skidmarx

Tracer 700 tall and wide screen

British bodywork specialist Skidmarx has developed taller screens and a hugger upgrade for Yamaha's popular Tracer 700 (2020 onwards). 

Made in the UK from 4 mm cast acrylic, so they won't flex in the wind, there are three screens to choose from - standard, which is a direct replacement for the factory-fitted item, taller/wider, which is 110 mm higher and 45 mm wider than standard, and super tall and wide, which is 150 mm higher and 115 mm wider.

Like all Skidmarx screens, they are designed to fit directly onto the original mountings for a straightforward, modification-free, fully reversible install; available in clear, light and dark tints.
Skidmarx hugger designs include an integral chain guard - they shield the rear monoshock and undercarriage from dirt and grime thrown up from the road. There are three options offered - GRP glass fibre in a high-quality gloss black finish, lightweight carbon fibre and super strong forged carbon fibre. All Skidmarx screens ship with models-specific hardware and fitting kit and instructions.

SKIDMARX
www.skidmarx.co.uk

PIERER Mobility Group

KTM Group - 2021 motorcycle unit sales +23%, buys FELT Bicycles

The PIERER Mobility Group has reported motorcycle sales of +23% for 2021 at 332,881 units with an additional 102,753 in bicycle sales (+40%), some 76,916 of which were e-bicycles (+37%). The Group delivered EBIT of €193.5m (+80%) at a margin of 9.5% and EBITDA of €332.2m (+42%) at a margin of 16.3%.
Sales revenue was up by over 30% despite the supply chain challenges at €2,042m (from €1,530m in 2020), with an EBIT margin of 9.5%.
In the 2021 financial year, around €178.5m was invested in growth, of which approximately €131.1m was invested in product development and tooling and €47.4m in operating facilities and infrastructure, with a record free cash flow of €172.2m, which corresponds to 8.4% of the revenues.

In the past financial year, the number of employees was increased by 663. As of December 31, 2021, the PIERER Mobility Group had a total of 5,249 employees, 4,340 of them in Austria. Approximately 1,000 employees work in research and development (approx. 19% of the workforce).
A total of 249,290 KTM motorcycles were sold, with 60,801 Husqvarna and 22,790 GasGas motorcycles sold in 2021. In the sales regions of Europe, unit sales were around 120,000 motorcycles, with some two-thirds (approx. 210,000) sold outside Europe. Significant growth was also recorded in North America with almost 66,000 units sold (+25%); in Australia sales increased by 26% to about 21,000. The strongest growth potential was seen in South America (+62%) with 32,500 and in Asia (+56%) with 30,000 motorcycles sold.

For 2021, the market share of all three brands was 11.5% in a European market that was +8% (740,000 units). American and Australian market shares were 11.3% and 19.7% respectively. The overall Indian motorcycle market is on a slight upswing (+2%). Bajaj sold 60,000 KTM and Husqvarna motorbikes in India, resulting in a market share of 7%.
In other news, PIERER Mobility continued its race success with GasGas, winning its first Dakar Rally in January 2022 with Sam Sunderland delivering the Group's 19th Dakar title in total. In 2021 the three brands won 21 world championship titles in both road and off-road racing.
Having rebuilt its byzantine share ownership structure, PIERER Mobility AG intends to apply for the admission of its shares to the Official Market (prime market segment) of the Vienna Stock Exchange, effective 1st March, 2022. The primary listing of the shares of PIERER Mobility AG (ISIN: AT0000KTMI02) remains with SIX Swiss Exchange.

The Group continued its expansion in the bicycle market with the acquisition of California based FELT Bicycles, marking its entry into the North American bicycle market. FELT has been integrated into the Group's PIERER E-Bikes GmbH division.
Founded in 1991 in California, USA, FELT Bicycles has an established reputation for producing high-performance, drop-bar road, triathlon, track, cyclocross, gravel and adventure bikes. "Always striving for innovation, during its 30-year history, FELT Bicycles has pioneered carbon fibre usage in bike design, set new standards in mountain bike suspension systems, and revolutionised aerodynamic development in the pursuit of the ultimate racing equipment. FELT bikes have been ridden to stage wins at Grand Tours, earned record-breaking triathlon world titles, Olympic gold medals and world championships on various terrain."
Despite the "existing challenges in the supply chain, the PIERER Mobility Group continues to focus on growth in all core areas in the 2022 financial year, both with regard to motorcycles and (e-)bicycles, expecting revenue growth of between 6% and 10% (2021 financial year: approx. €2,041.7m) with an EBIT margin of 8% to 10% and an EBITDA margin between 15% and 17%."