BMW Motorrad

BMW - Q1 Unit sales +11.3%

Motorcycles segment deliveries and revenues were up again in the first quarter of 2022 for BMW Motorrad - the company increased its sales volume by +11.3%, delivering 47,403 BMW motorcycles and scooters to customers (2021: 42,592 units).
Segment revenues climbed +6.1% to €799m (2021: €753m). The motorcycle segment's earnings before financial result (EBIT) totalled € 108m (2021: € 135m), while the EBIT margin came in at 13.5%.
However, as Roger Willis in BDN reported, Q1 cost of sales in its motorcycle division rose by 11.7% to around € 800m resulting in operating profit actually being down by -20% compared to Q1 2021 at around
€ 107m. Operating margin fell to 13.5%, compared to 17.9% for the year ago period, with net motorcycle segment profit down by 12.7% to
€ 89m.

BMW M 1000 RR

To mark the 50th anniversary of BMW M GmbH (founded in 1972 as BMW Motorsport GmbH) BMW Motorrad is presenting this M 1000 RR 50 Years M anniversary model in Sao Paulo Yellow finish and with the historic 50 Years BMW M emblem. "With its striking M colours, this anniversary model lives up to the M philosophy and the racing spirit from almost 100 years of motorcycle construction by BMW Motorrad and 50 years of BMW M vehicles." The M RR 50 Years M is fitted with the M Competition Package as standard. No maximum production number has been set, but it can only be ordered between 21 May and 30 November 2022.

News Briefs

 

Husqvarna is the latest manufacturer to "bring the thrills of two wheels to the next generation" with the introduction of its twist action throttle 12eDrive and 16eDrive (by H-D subsidiary STACYC). The 12eDrive is designed for kids aged 3 to 5 years old with an inside leg range of 35-51 cm, a choice of three power levels, ultra-low 33 cm seat height, 12" composite wheels with pneumatic tyres, and a child-friendly, manageable light weight of 7.7 kg (including battery). The 16eDrive extends the concept to kids aged 4 to 8 years old with an inside leg range of 45-61 cm.

Sven Mack is the new CEO of Hostettler GmbH at Müllheim (Germany). Part of the Swiss Hostettler Group, the German subsidiary "specialises in the distribution of a comprehensive range of products for the European motorcycle and scooter trade". Mack has been with Hostettler since he sold his Sports Nut GmbH Tübingen business to them in 2014.

According to the latest available figures, Russia spends $61.7 bn a year on defence, which is the 4th highest (behind USA, China and India), representing 3.1% of global defence spending and 4.3% of its GDP - only Saudi Arabia (8.4%) and Israel (5.6%) spend a higher proportion of national GDP on defence.

Brembo reports 2021 full year revenues +25.8% at € 2,777.6m (+7.2% compared to 31 December 2019), with net profit +57% to € 215.5m and EBITDA at € 502.7m on a margin of 18.1%. Brembo decreased net financial debt by € 71.5m and made net investments of
€ 236.2m, completing two significant acquisitions, adding SBS Friction (Denmark) and J.Juan (Spain), inaugurated its Inspiration Lab in Silicon Valley, Ca., and introduced a new intelligent braking system called SENSIFY.

Having been a part of MotoE since its inception in 2019, Michelin is to remain the sole tyre supplier for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup until at least 2024. The French manufacturer says it is achieving ever-increasing sustainability in its MotoE tyres, including the use of recycled and bio-sourced materials. The front tyres are composed of 33% sustainable resources and the rear tyres 40%, including materials such as lemon and orange peel, pine resin, sunflower oil, worn car and truck tyres and scrap steel!


Polaris owned US clothing manufacturer Klim has joined the motorcycle airbag market, specifically the airbag vest segment with its Ai-1 airbag vest based on the market leading "Detect-Protect-Perfect" technology platform developed by French specialist In&motion. Lightweight (1.5 kg) and well ventilated, the tech is cunningly concealed in the back protector and fits under any motorcycle jacket. The Ai based tech detects dangerous situations by analysing 1,000 movements per second. The constantly evolving algorithm continuously processes data and if it detects a crash, the airbag inflates in less than 60 milliseconds. Operation is via Bluetooth with an (IOS or Android) app.

Husqvarna Motorcycles has extended its partnership with Boise, Idaho based Rekluse through 2022. Owned by Race Winning Brands (of Wiseco fame) and now in its 20th year, the clutch component manufacturer will "continue to support Husqvarna's global racing efforts".

Ducati and Carrera have entered into a multi-year global licensing agreement that will see the creation of a collection of dual-brand sunglasses and eyewear. Carrera also becomes Official Partner of Ducati Corse.

British motorcycle detailing specialist brand Muc-Off is to go dealer-direct in the UK.

Owned in Italy by the MOL Group, Panta Racing Fuel has become the Official Fuel Supplier of the reinvigorated WorldSSP. Already present in WorldSSP300, Panta is also the official supplier for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, the FIM Endurance World Championship and the British Superbikes series.

British race veteran Graham Jarvis is to continue racing for Husqvarna in 2022 - for a 9th year. Together with his Jarvis Racing Team, Jarvis will compete on Husqvarna machinery in the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship and other selected national and international events. A five-time Erzbergrodeo winner and six-time Romaniacs Hard Enduro Rallye winner, Jarvis formed his team specifically to take on the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship. He will compete on TE 300i together with fellow Brits Jono Richardson, Sam Winterburn and Grant Churchward.


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

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP)

Can-Am returns to two wheels in 2024

Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is finally bringing its storied Can-Am brand back into the motorcycle market in mid-2024 with the launch of a whole range of electric motorcycles that will rival the next-generation LiveWire machines from rival Harley-Davidson.
The LiveWire 'Arrow' platform, due to form the basis of the upcoming LiveWire S2 'Del Mar', shows how the adoption of a modular electric platform means multiple different styles of bike can be made around a single, shared core section. BRP's new Can-Am bikes will follow the same thinking with its own patent-applied-for construction system.
José Boisjoli, President and CEO of BRP, has confirmed the Can-Am motorcycle plans, releasing a statement alongside a teaser video that shows glimpses of some of the upcoming models. He said: "With the motorcycle industry shifting to electric, we saw an opportunity to reclaim our motorcycle heritage and to re-enter the market. This new product category is extremely important to us, and we are thrilled that Can-Am motorcycles are the first EV models in BRP's electric line-up to be confirmed to consumers. 

The bikes will reach dealers in mid-2024, but we can expect a full unveiling of the machines in 2023 to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Can-Am brand, launched by BRP in 1973. Can-Am ran as BRP's motorcycle arm until 1987 when the last Can-Am branded machines, by then made by CCM in the UK, were discontinued. Can-Am came back in 2006, focused on ATVs and three-wheelers, but the new electric models will be the first production motorcycles to wear the badge since the 80s.
The LiveWire Arrow modular platform includes a battery case that doubles as the structural part of the chassis, with bolt-on subframes to alter the bike's steering geometry and rear structure, as well as a variety of different motors, forks and swingarms.
BRP's design follows similar thinking, but with a slightly different approach, using a tubular steel frame to hold the battery and control electronics, as well as the steering head, while the motor is mounted in the swingarm. That means the front frame section, battery and electronics can be shared across all models, with different motor/swingarm units, forks, seat subframes, footpegs and bars to change the geometry and riding position to suit each model. The angle of the whole frame/battery is altered to adjust the rake, where the LiveWire Arrow has bolt-on steering head subframes to achieve the same goal.
BRP's combined motor/swingarm is also innovative. It positions the motor near the pivot, so while it moves with the suspension there's relatively little inertia. The motor drives a main reduction gear in the front of the swingarm that's attached the front sprocket, with a chain final drive to the rear sprocket. Unusually, the whole chain is enclosed, protecting it from dirt and allowing it to run in an oil bath to vastly reduce wear, with an automatic tensioner to keep it taut. Enclosing the chain also reduces its noise.

CFMoto

CFMoto European-designed 450SR

Last year's CFMoto SR-C21 concept bike was an impressive-looking machine, but also something of an enigma, as the company revealed nothing about its specifications - we could see there was a twin-cylinder engine under the fairing, but were left speculating about its power and capacity.
Now we have the answers, as CFMoto has type-approved its new 450SR sports bike in China and it's a doppelganger of the SR-C21, albeit with a few downgraded components to make it viable for production.

Visually, the 450SR - revealed in a single, low-resolution photo accompanying its approval paperwork - borrows the SR-C21's styling with few changes. If anything, the addition of blue, white and black paintwork elevates it compared to the all-black concept. Notable changes include the addition of larger headlights sitting underneath the stylised, Z-shaped LED running lights that were shown on the concept, as well as a pillion seat. Road-going necessities like mirrors, indicators and a licence plate bracket are also added.
The frame is identical to the concept bike's steel tube chassis, but different cast alloy footpeg brackets are another nod to mass production. Meanwhile, the most exotic elements of the SR-C21 - its Öhlins forks, Brembo radial brakes and single-sided swingarm - have been stripped away. They might have looked good, but a 450 cc sports bike isn't going to be a success if it's priced high enough to include all those components.

The styling is the work of CFMoto's European R&D department, Modena 40, based in Rimini, Italy. The '40' logo on the side of the bike is a nod to those roots. It's a good-looking machine, with a clear resemblance to the smaller 300SR sports bike, but a more aggressive overall stance, assisted by huge winglets on either side of the fairing.
Performance-wise, the type-approval shows that the engine is a 449 cc parallel twin, making an impressive 37 kW (50 hp). It's a new engine, unrelated to existing CFMoto designs, but intriguingly it could be related to the planned KTM '490' twin, which has long been expected to form the basis of a range of mid-sized machines from the Austrian manufacturer. CFMoto is closely tied to KTM and already makes the '790' and '890' versions of the LC8c engine, including its own 799 cc variant, used in the new CFMoto 800MT adventure bike.

Matris

Feature-rich M46R monoshock series

Noted Italian suspension specialist Matris' three-way "R" adjustable shock is a sophisticated unit intended primarily for race and track use.
It is equipped with three independent hydraulic control adjustments: high and low speed compression and rebound damping. The ride height is also adjustable, and the spring preload is by hydraulic preload unit.

Computerised engineering systems are used to design, project and produce all the components "and only materials of high-end technical and mechanical characteristics are used - with the objective of reducing weight, promoting high temperature stability and fine damping adjustment to ensure the greatest sensitivity and confidence to the rider, plus excellent stability of the rear axle".
The difference in damping is easily noticeable with every click of adjustment. There is a separate pressurised expansion tank (nitrogen gas) with a fully floating piston. The M46R is supplied as standard with "HP" hydraulic spring preload and the flow dynamics of the 46 mm diameter piston have been specially designed for better control of the suspension dynamics.
Additional features include a high tensile alloy steel 16 mm diameter piston rod, hard chrome coating and lapped finish with PVD TIN (Titanium Nitride) surface treatment; the springs are in Si-Cr alloy steel - available in different rates based on the bike model and rider weight (available in orange and black).
On demand, Matris also offers a pneumatic spring preloading system and rechargeable tank with quick connection for racing.

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

Koso

Street Bob gauge

Instrumentation specialist Koso has this D2 speedometer and tachometer application available for the 2018 and up Street Bob. It is a 'plug and play' gauge, featuring a combination speedometer and tachometer with programmable shift light, gear indicator and a complete set of indicator lights - plus a choice of eight colourways so riders can match their instrumentation to their paint job.

KOSO EUROPE
www.kosoeurope.com

Lightech

Lightech for 1200 RS Speed Triple

Italian parts and accessory specialist Lightech has a new line of accessories for the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS.
"One of the most sought-after aftermarket products is always a replacement licence plate holder and Lightech's are among the most popular in the sector - known for their light weight and vibration resistance".

Made from a special PA12 polymer and carbon fibre compound, they are supplied as a kit with homologated plate light and retroreflector, or as a plate holder only.
"The licence plate holder complies with the requirements for street use and a kit of coloured special Ergal hardware (high strength, lightweight zinc aluminium alloy) is available for a full customisation. The approved and exclusive Lightech brand ABS LED turn signals with multi-pixel technology complete the set-up".

Another product series that Lightech is well known for, the precision CNC-machined billet aluminium rearset seen here "combines high quality design and that enhance the lines as well as the performance. It guarantees exceptional rigidity, ensures safety and performance in all riding conditions. All plates, levers and supports are machined in Lightech's in-house state-of-the-art CNC facility". Custom options include anodised footrest supports in different colours, heel guards in magnesium, aluminium or carbon, fixed or folding footpegs in various colours and folding toepegs. 

Model-specific frame sliders combine a magnesium base plate with a soft rubber centre and an external puck made of nylon mixed with fiberglass for excellent sliding and impact energy absorption properties - the anodised aluminium rings and the rubber shock absorber can be swapped out for customisation. Lightech also offers handlebar balancers, brake pump reservoir caps and Ergal hardware.
 
LIGHTECH S.R.L.
www.lightech.it

Motorcycle Storehouse

Progressive Suspension shocks

Seen here for liquid-cooled Triumph twins, these American made Progressive Suspension 412 Series shock absorbers "have rightfully earned a reputation as the best value replacement shock on the market today", according to distributor Motorcycle Storehouse.

"The double wall steel body construction with high-pressure nitrogen-charged, multi-staged valving ensures smooth, consistent damping - a five-position preload adjuster enables the rider to dial these shocks into their specific weight.
"Plus, with a choice of standard or heavy-duty progressive spring rates, and lengths from 12.5" to 16.5", Triumph owners can be sure to find the right shock for their needs and enjoy the benefits of improved handling and stability for years to come".
According to Motorcycle Storehouse, additional features include improved handling and stability, an all-black finish and five-position cam style preload adjuster (wrench included).

MOTORCYCLE STOREHOUSE BV
www.motorcyclestorehouse.com
www.progressivesuspension.com

Wind Trading

WRP brake pads

Ravenna, Italy based distributor Wind Trading is the exclusive distributor of the WRP (Works Racing Parts) brand of accessories and performance components - a brand internationally recognised for its handlebars among other performance parts.

WRP is the official handlebar supplier of choice for factory MXGP, Enduro and Supermoto teams, and is also a player in the brake pads space. WRP pads have featured with many leading riders and teams in the past decade, picking up championship wins with Team BMW Factory SBK/SSTK and Stefan Bradl in Moto2GP, and featuring with Team Speed Up and Team Intact GP in Moto2GP.

For 2022, WRP has "extended its range of state-of-the-art 100% European made brake pads. Made from high-quality materials, WRP high-performance brake pads offer 12 friction compounds, specifically developed for precise uses - eight types of pads for street applications and four for off-road applications, often offering better braking than OEM".   
All WRP brake pads are suitable for the OEM cast iron and stainless steel discs currently in production.

WIND TRADING SRL
www.wrpracing.com

SIFAM Group

Single swingarm rear lift

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 technical, accessory and apparel programmes for which it is the exclusive distributor.

Combining design with high-end technology, the ergonomically successful SIFAM single swingarm rear lift is "ideal for maintenance, wheel removal or fitting heated covers. It is designed specifically for lifting bikes fitted with a single arm". The spindle is optionally available as there is a range of different diameters.
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 (see below).

SIFAM
www.sifam.fr

Suzuki

Suzuki to quit MotoGP - again!

In a shock to the FIM MotoGP grid community, Suzuki Motor Corporation has confirmed the rumours that it was planning to suspend its participation in the premier GP racing class at the conclusion of the 2022 season.
In a statement, Suzuki stated that it was "in discussions" with FIM MotoGP rights holder Dorna (Madrid, Spain) "regarding the possibility" of ending Suzuki’s participation in FIM MotoGP at the end of 2022.
"Unfortunately, the current economic situation, and the need to concentrate its effort on the big changes that the automotive world is facing in these years, are forcing Suzuki to drastically decrease racing related costs and to use all its economic and human resources in developing new technologies.

"We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our Suzuki Ecstar Team, to all those who have supported Suzuki's motorcycle racing activities for many years and to all Suzuki fans who have given us their enthusiastic support".
Don't be fooled by the precise form of words in the Suzuki statement though. It is thought that expressing its plan as a "possibility" at this stage was more a question of limiting legal jeopardy from any contractual liability, rather than there being any real prospect that the decision could yet be reversed.
In common with other manufacturers who participate in FIM MotoGP, Suzuki has a multi-year contractual agreement with Dorna and had only just signed a new contract in 2021. That agreement would have extended its participation up to and including the 2026 season - continuing to race as Team Suzuki Ecstar - after conclusion of the 2022 series.
Suzuki's racing story began in 1960 with the Isle of Man TT. Last year it celebrated its 100th anniversary and 60 years in racing by winning the Riders' World Championship with Joan Mir.
Suzuki withdrew from competition at the end of the 2011 season, announcing in June 2013 that it would return to MotoGP with a factory team in 2015. This latest withdrawal comes against a background of poor financial results and a sluggish recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic recession. A recent 'Mid-Term' management plan made no mention of motorcycles.
The move leaves Suzuki MotoGP riders Joan Mir and Alex Rins looking for seats in 2023 and opens up two grid spots for another manufacturer to take. It is thought that Mir's management had already been in dialogue with Honda Racing before the latest news - as a possible replacement at Repsol Honda for Pol Espargaro - but there are other MotoGP spots also available for the 2023 season.
Like Mir, fellow Spaniard Alex Rins had been due to sign an extension with Suzuki, but is now also "on the market". In his case there have been (unlikely) rumours of a switch to Yamaha.
For its part, Dorna released a statement reminding Suzuki that "the conditions of their contract to race in MotoGP do not allow for them to take this decision unilaterally. However, should Suzuki depart following an agreement between both parties, Dorna will decide on the ideal number of riders and teams racing in the MotoGP class from 2023".
That appears to hold open the possibility that Dorna will simply look to bank compensation from Suzuki and reduce the present 24 grid spots by two. However, they also went on to say that they continue "to receive high levels of interest from a number of both official factories and independent teams looking to join the MotoGP grid as the sport continues to set a global example of close competition, innovation and entertainment, reaching hundreds of millions of fans around the world".
There has been speculation straight away that a likely beneficiary could be Aprilia - in the form of a new satellite team. It is the only manufacturer, other than Suzuki, who is currently only running a two-bike factory effort, without any satellite support. Lepard Racing are reported to be among a slew of teams interested in stepping up from Moto2 and 3.

News Briefs

 

In support of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, Triumph has announced an upcoming partnership with American guitar brand Gibson. The collaboration will be based on the legendary 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar and the 1959 Triumph Bonneville T120 motorcycle.

Investcorp (the Bahrain Sovereign Investment fund/BIC), who bought Dainese from founder Lino Dainese in 2014 (for € 130m), has judged that the time is right to do what most private equity investors do with their acquisitions sooner or later - take the profit and "flip the asset". In a deal said to be worth some € 630m ($692m) including debt, the new owner is Washington D.C. headquartered private equity investor The Carlyle Group (CG.O). During its ownership, Investcorp says it more than doubled Dainese's sales to € 250m and expanded core earnings (EBITDA) at a double-digit rate annually. Lino Dainese is credited with many firsts, not least the back protector, knee sliders and the wearable air bag. He diversified his business by adding the legendary, 1947 founded Italian AGV helmet brand in 2007.

Touratech has won Motorrad's Best Brand Award for 2022 in the Accessories and Conversions class. Established in 2006, the awards have 22 categories with over 50,000 readers taking part in the voting.

Brazilian off-road tyre manufacturer Borilli Racing has chosen Athena Motor Ibérica as its sole distributor throughout Spain and Innteck for Italian distribution. Borilli offers two tyre ranges - its 7DAYS ENDURO and MX77/MX777 lines. Borilli has also announced that it will again be an Official Partner with the Spanish Enduro Championship in 2022. In Italy Borilli is the title sponsor of the MX Pro Series and the "number one choice of David Philippaerts" in the MX1 Prestige.

Two and a half years after the project was first announced, Aston Martin says it will start deliveries of its 183 hp, 180 kg AMB 001 V-twin Superbike. As of early 2022, ten of the original 100-unit limited-run batch of € 100,000 Brough Superior builds were still available.

Yamaha has been voted three Red Dot design awards for 2022 - for the YZF-R7 and MT-09 motorcycles, and for its SuperJet PWC. "These honours mark the 11th year in a row - every year since 2012 - that a Yamaha Motor product has received a Red Dot Design award".

BMW has hoovered up three wins in Motorrad Magazine's "Motorcycle of the Year 2022" awards, with four second places and one third spot. The BMW M 1000 RR was voted first place in the "Sports Bikes" category, the R 1250 RS took the "Best Tourer/Sports Tourer" award, with the R 1250 GS/Adventure picking up the "Enduro/ Supermotos" segment win. Second place awards went to the BMW S 1000 XR ("Crossover"), the BMW R 18/Classic ("Chopper/Cruiser"), R 1250 R ("Naked Bikes") and to the BMW R nineT/R nineT Pure in the "Modern Classics" category (in which the R nineT Scrambler was also voted third).

Honda has won 'Product Design 2022' Red Dot design awards for the NT1100 motorcycle and ADV350 scooter.

Motul has partnered with British brand Ariel Motor Company. Core business for Ariel is the manufacture of hand-crafted, Honda engine high-performance recreational vehicles, with the Ariel Atom proving an international success on both road and racetrack. In 2014, Ariel added the high-performance Ariel Ace motorcycle to its range.

December 2021 saw sales of electric cars in Europe overtake diesel models for the first time, with the switch to battery-powered vehicles enjoying record growth on the back of government subsidies and emissions regulations. More than 20% of new cars sold across 18 European markets, were powered exclusively by batteries, while diesel cars, including diesel hybrids, accounted for less than 19% of sales. Some 176,000 battery EVs were sold in western Europe during December alone, an all-time record and more than 6% up on the year-ago number.

German workshop diagnostics specialist Hella-Gutmann has been acquired by French automotive supplier Faurecia. The H-G flexible all-brand 'mega macs' motorcycle diagnostics and troubleshooting systems and software are a popular choice for motorcycle workshops in Germany.


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

Triumph

Triumph - restored 1901 prototype

Following Triumph's recent announcement of plans to mark the 120th anniversary of the brand, and the production of the millionth 'Hinckley Triumph', the company announced the discovery of the very first Triumph prototype ever built.
Discovered and restored by leading vintage Triumph collector Dick Shepherd, the 1901 prototype "rewrites the history books, adding a whole new chapter prior to Triumph's official sales starting in 1902. 

"Long rumoured to exist and referenced within advertising and reviews that appeared in 1901, this first Triumph prototype was developed from a standard Triumph bicycle, with an engine provided by Belgian manufacturer Minerva in order to generate interest and gauge the public's demand for a Triumph motorcycle."
Dick Shepherd said: "Having been approached by a friend of a collector (who had sadly recently passed away) to evaluate an old Triumph, I was incredibly excited to discover that the bike featured unique details that were not present on the first production Triumphs. Along with the bike, the collector had also received a letter from Triumph, dated in 1937, that outlined the bike's unique origins and provided key details.
"With an engine number that is consistent with references in Minerva's engine records of a 1901 first Triumph engagement, the historic significance of this motorcycle became incredibly clear."

QJMotor

QJMotor - 400 cc, 500 cc and 600 cc models

QJMotor is set to become a better-known brand outside its Chinese homeland during 2022 with a Moto3 race effort under its name and a growing ambition to offer its ever-growing range of bikes in Europe.
The Moto3 effort will be with the well known Avintia team, using KTM race bikes rebranded to sport the QJMotor branding, with European sales intentions heavily suggested by QJMotor's presence at EICMA last year. Given that the company's own brand is effectively a Benelli sister brand, owned by the same Qianjiang parent company, there is no surprise that it shares many of the same frames, engines and suspension components with Benelli models, and there's already a dealer and distributor network in place should it decide to enter the European market.

600RR

Indeed, QJMotor's latest new models, revealed in Chinese approval documents, look increasingly convincing from a European perspective.
They start with a redesigned version of the 600 cc four-cylinder sports model, the 600RR, which itself is made around the engine and chassis of the old Benelli TNT600i. That bike dropped off the radar in Europe after the Euro 4 emissions rules were introduced, but recently Qianjiang has been developing an upsized 650 cc version that might well be able to meet Euro 5 requirements. This new QJMotor initially retains the 600 cc version but gets new bodywork, including a restyled nose with more modern headlights and the addition of GP-inspired winglets.

SRK400

Other changes include a new exhaust, while the engine's output - 87 hp - is rated as being 7 hp higher than the previous generation. The suspension comes from Marzocchi, which recently signed a deal to allow Qianjiang to take over the responsibility for manufacturing its components in China; the brakes are Brembo. The new SRV500 is an addition to the QJMotor range based on an existing model of the same name.
QJMotor has also been working on a new 400RR, 400R and SRK400, all based around a new 400 cc parallel twin engine. The 400RR is the top version, with a single-sided swingarm and dual front brake discs, while the 400R shares the same fully-faired styling.
Just as Qianjiang has a deal with Harley-Davidson, it also has an arrangement to manufacture smaller models with MV Agusta. The first will be the newly launched MV Lucky Explorer 5.5, which shares many of its parts with QJMotor's 500 cc adventure bike and the near-identical Benelli TRK502.

Dot Motorcycles

Dot Motorcycles reborn

The name Dot Motorcycles is not one of the best-known British brands, but it has its roots in the very earliest days of motorcycling, and even has a TT trophy win to its name. The company has been revived with a duo of Kawasaki-powered twins after decades of lying dormant.
The Dot Demon scrambler and Dot Reed Racer café racer are both based around the same artistically-crafted steel trellis frame, housing the parallel twin engine from Kawasaki's Z650 and tailor-made to each customer's demands. Each model makes 69 hp, like the Kawasaki they're based on, but weighs only 169 kg to gain a performance boost compared to the mass-manufactured donor bike. 

Identical Brembo brakes are used on both Demon and Reed Racer, with twin 300 mm discs and four-pot, radial-mount calipers at the front and a 220 mm disc and single piston caliper at the rear. Despite their very different styles, the bikes both have the same 1,438 mm wheelbase and Showa suspension and use 17 in wheels at both ends, alloy on the Reed Racer and wire on the Demon. Each bike is built to order to a customer's own specifications.
The brand was founded in Manchester in 1903 and scored a twin-cylinder class win at the Isle of Man TT in 1908. The company manufactured bikes until 1932, returning to small-scale production with a focus on competition machines in 1948. A team award at the 1951 Ultra Lightweight TT followed, along with an increased focus on trials and scrambling, and success during the 50s and 60s. Manufacturing had ceased by the early 80s.

BS Battery

Plug & play solution by BS Battery

The first manufacturer to develop a complete alternative solution to conventional and maintenance-free batteries, French company BS Battery is "leading the market with more than 80 types of sealed, activated and ready-to-use batteries - that's the BS Battery 'Plug and Play' solution".
"Designed to make life easier for users, dealers and distributors, the 'Plug and Play' solution takes away all the unpopular complexities of dealing with acid - BS SLA batteries are 100% safe to use and work with," says BS Battery General Manager Benjamin Sebban.

"To ensure the optimal lifetime and performance of BS SLA batteries, our European Logistics Centre daily maintains, tests, recharges and controls all batteries before shipping. Compatible with SLA, SLA Max and Lithium batteries, our smart BS chargers - BS10 and BS30 - run safely, precisely and powerfully 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
"They are designed with a patented microprocessor that can optimise lead acid and lithium battery power and durability. We can also provide our dealers with our new BK20 - an automatic bank charger, so that they can build their own charging room."
Monitoring the market regulations closely (ref. to EU 2021 acid handling), Benjamin says that the BS Battery product team is "working to provide the most innovative solutions for our 80-country worldwide network. We are also accelerating our commitment to upgrade all dry and maintenance-free battery ranges to SLA and SLA Max ready-to-use technology simply because they are safer, stronger and more powerful."
BS Battery just released a complete range of 6V batteries in SLA version that would be ideal for restoration of older bikes and classic vehicles.

BS BATTERY SAS
www.bs-battery.com

Rick's Motorsport Electrics

KTM 50 replacement stator   

American specialist Rick's Motorsport Electrics, one of the world's leading manufacturers of aftermarket electrical components, has added a new KTM 50 replacement stator.
Fitments include 2004-08 50 Mini Adventure, 2006-22 50 SX, 2006-09 50 SX Junior, 2008-22 50 SX Mini, 2002-08 50 SX Mini Adventure, 2001-05 50 SX Pro JR/SR and 2002-07 50 SX JR/SR Adventure.

Offered in direct response to dealer and distributor requests, Rick's says that "while the KTM 50 serves as a great launching point for new riders, and is also enjoyed by experienced riders and racers, the little bike is not without its flaws, most notably the failing stator.
"While most of dad's trackside toolbox is full of spark plugs and jets, junior's toolbox almost always has a spare stator or two in it. Anyone that rides or races one of these little bikes will surely have replaced the stator at one time or another.
"Our new replacement stator is wound with high-temp insulated wire to combat the high heat and vibration that these little engines produce. This keeps the stator windings from breaking down and keeps the bike running perfectly". All of Rick's Motorsport Electrics' stators come with a one-year replacement warranty.

RICK'S MOTORSPORT ELECTRICS
www.ricksmotorsportelectrics.com

FUCHS SILKOLENE

SILKOLENE - new and improved 'small packs'

Global motorcycle brand SILKOLENE has introduced new 1-litre and 4-litre packs to the market with "maximised customer benefits such as new labels for better orientation, a more ergonomic design for better handling and improved carbon footprint by using 30% recycled materials in our new 1-litre plastic bottles, in addition to our bestselling 100% recyclable 4-litre Lube Cubes.
"In fact, FUCHS UK has saved over 1,130,000 kg of single use plastics through the use of innovative packaging since 2012 - with the new packs helping to further reduce their impact on the environment.

"Based on extensive dealer and distributor feedback, our easier to use new bottles feature an enhanced ergonomic design to offer improved weight distribution with a larger and extended neck (plus tamper-resistant screw cap) for a smoother, drip-free pour.
"Our industry-leading Lube Cubes now feature new 'how to use' guidelines with clear 'push through' markings on the top. All SILKOLENE Lube Cubes are vacuum-sealed, allowing for a smooth pour without any glug, making them easier to use than ever before.
"The new bottles are made with 30% recycled plastic (PCR) and our ground-breaking 4l Lube Cubes are 100% recyclable. All our new small packs help reduce our/your carbon footprint whilst maximising the sales performance of your SILKOLENE inventory".

FUCHS SILKOLENE
www.silkolene.com

SC-Project

SC-Project STR-1 for Trident 660

Created in-house by its on-site R&D Department, this new Euro 5 compliant STR-1 full system by Milan based SC-Project is described as representing a "full step forward in terms of tuning on the new three-cylinder Triumph Trident 660".

Manufactured in high-quality AISI 304 stainless steel with high quality finishes, male/female bushings for a perfect seal and clean room hand TIG-welding, the system is said to save 1.2 kg compared to the Triumph factory system.
This is said to add 1.2 hp and 1.0 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm - with a resulting improvement in throttle response and riding experience throughout the engine range. SC-Project says that no ECU remapping is required.
A black option is available with a finish created by using a special, high temperature resistant ceramic paint process; the carbon fibre heatshield is autoclave manufactured to offer a unique style that harmonises with the motorcycle's design.

SC-PROJECT
www.sc-project.com

Hornig

BMW R18 conversion by Hornig

German BMW accessory specialist Hornig clearly admires the 1,802 cc two-cylinder 91 hp 'Big Boxer', but far from letting that stop it wanting to improve it, the company has been inspired - seeing the R18 as a customiser's canvas on which to draw a new picture.

 

Starting with the reupholstered seat, Hornig has created additional levels of comfort, ergonomics and handling. A special edition, model-specific sissy bar with redesigned backrest adds to passenger comfort and security. A tinted touring screen reduces the wind pressure on the driver and a rear end kit raises the tail for a "more dynamic sitting and riding height by raising the rear 15 mm; the bike's wheelbase is shortened to achieve agile and sportier handling".

To protect the engine, Hornig has mounted 38 mm black, custom-look crash bars, removable non-slip rubber footpads for a relaxed riding posture - a special aluminium cooler grid is available in silver or black.
Black, lockable leather saddlebags have a model-specific support and 17 litre capacity (each); a model-specific suckers or magnets attached tank bag gives another 10-15 litre capacity.
Aluminium accessories include a T45 Tork key protected custom oil filler plug; a canter cap top yoke with emblem; adjustable stainless steel licence plate bracket; a RAM GPS support in combination with a clamp and a RAM plate mean many different navigation devices can be mounted.
A Remus CUSTOM V2 exhaust "offers an impressive sound and a great power delivery" and detailing finishing touches include hand-drawn pinstripes on the front mudguard to reflect the rear mudguard and tank details.

MOTORCYCLE PARTS HORNIG
www.motorcycleparts-hornig.com

Trevor

Building clean

In the world of design, all kinds of design, the old mantra that "Less is More" remains as true today as it was when Philippe Starck turned late 20th century design orthodoxy upside down in the 1980s. As true today as it was when Walter Gropius (Bauhaus) and Le Corbusier turned architecture and design orthodoxy upside down in the 1930s.
Now, motorcycle electrification is proving to be an attractive design platform through which new generations of talented designers can channel their inner minimalism to great effect. Stylishly simple has been the electric motorcycle market's design default aspiration for a decade now.

One of the businesses driving the "new age of the electrification enlightenment" has been Saroléa - an iconic Belgian brand that was founded in 1850 and went out of production in 1963; the brand was acquired in 2008 by Belgian twin brothers Torsten and Bjorn Robbens.

 

The Saroléa mission has been to develop and produce high-performance 100% electric race machines. Built by hand at the company's workshop in Belgium, all components are designed and built by Torsten Robbens, who has a background in motorsport, aerospace and military manufacturing.

DC-AFAM chain and sprocket

The SP7 race bike was near the podium at the Isle of Man TT Zero race for two years - finishing fourth in 2014 and fifth in 2015 - recording an average speed for the one-lap event of 106 mph (171 km/h).

Subsequent data logging and other issues forced a withdrawal from the race in 2016, and since then the company has been focussed on pursuit of its vision to "develop the ultimate road legal electric motorcycle based on our race bikes". The goal is limited edition street models based on the same technology and performance as its SP7 TT race bike.
That search saw them create the Manx7 and the N60MM.01 streetfighter and N60MM.07 Café Racer style electric motorcycles in collaboration with Antwerp based The Mighty Machines (MM) - which brought Saroléa into contact with well-known MM Creative Director Philippe Stella.

After spending a year working on the N60MM.01 for Saroléa with motorcycle professional Jeroen-Vincent Nagels (while working on the MM project), Nagels and Stella had the idea to translate their leisure time enthusiasm for flat trackers into an electric flat tracker concept. The design of the bike that became the 'Trevor' was done in California by former Alta man John McInnis (who has since moved on to be with LiveWire). 

HAAN 19" spoke wheels

Stella and Nagels returned to Belgium (from Spain) to co-found Trevor Motorcycles. The gloriously minimalist flat track inspired 'Trevor' electric motorcycle being handbuilt in series volume by Saroléa in Belgium and showcased at EICMA by DC-AFAM in November 2021.
As it should, the design simplicity camouflages the attention to detail and the quality of the execution and components selected and specified for the 'Mighty Black' DTRe Stella.

The goal that Stella and Nagels conceived while living at Cadaqués in Catalonia was to "create a sustainable and agile electric motorcycle for all terrains, from the urban jungle through the city's harbour into the country. A motorcycle that could reach 90 kph with ease, as an instant reaction to the 260 Nm of torque at its rear wheel".

 

The DTRe Stella has an air-cooled, brushless DC3 motor in a chrome molybdenum trellis frame with an up to 11 kW, 2.7 kWh Li-ion C-battery (upgrades available in 2023). Dutch built 19-inch Excel/Takasago 7000 wheels by Haan and the Domino HAS handlebar speak to Stella's flat track enthusiasm with a lightweight, precision-machined AFAM X sprocket, partnered with a DC chain to get as much of the power as possible into the Dunlops.
Suspension is Öhlins' 43 Blackline front fork and Öhlins' Blackline coil-over mono shock absorber at the rear. The body is in robust, durable, lightweight ABS and the brakes (front and rear) are made in France by Beringer. Fully street legal, the DTRe Stella is A1 (EU) licence-friendly.
www.trevormotorcycles.com
www.sarolea.com

News Briefs

Coming off its first season of competition in the 2021 British Supersport Championship, the Triumph Street Triple RS won on its American race debut - winning no less than the Daytona 200. The winning motorcycle was ridden by defending champion Brandon Paasch, who used his experience gained in the 2021 season with the Triumph Street Triple RS and his past success at the 200 to make the most of the 765 triple's power around Daytona's banking - taking the win by 0.007 of a second. Teammate Danny Eslick took 6th.

The electric bicycle represented more than half of the total Dutch bicycle market for the first time last year (Pedelecs/E-assist models). Although sales of e-bikes decreased by -12.5% to 478,000 units in 2021, the market share of e-bikes increased to 51.8% of sales. More than three quarters (76%) of the turnover from bicycle sales in the Netherlands is now accounted for by the electric bicycle - with an average price in 2021 of almost € 2,400 (+6%).

It will soon be a decade since BMW flipped Husqvarna Motorcycles to KTM owner PIERER Mobility AG in 2013, BMW itself only acquiring 'Husky' from MV Agusta in 2008 (it had initially been bought by Cagiva in 1987). But after three owners in not much more than five years, Husqvarna has entered its most successful era in nearly 120 years of motorcycle production - selling 60,801 units in 2021.

Is the Gilera name about to become the latest 'legacy' brand to make a return to the streets? Piaggio partner Zongshen has an Aprilia-derived 896 cc 90-degree V-twin 'on the bench' that is slated to be used in the Zongshen RA9. Presently used in the Aprilia Shiver naked bike, a recent V-twin patent filing for a version of the engine was made with Gilera branding - as pimped at the 2021 CIMA expo.

The much rumoured 1,082 cc parallel-twin powered Honda Hawk11 finally got a showing in March on home ground at the Osaka Motorcycle Show, for an initial home market only launch. It is a Roadster meets retro superbike styled 'parts bin' bike based on the Africa Twin chassis with components from the NT1100 tourer.

For the seventh season running, Brembo will be supplying all MotoGP riders with braking systems in 2022 and this year's season they will be individually customisable - for all 24 riders. Brembo parts will include GP4 brake calipers, a choice of 12 carbon disc options, brake master cylinders, clutch pumps and pads. Brembo says that more than one-third of MotoGP riders regularly use the thumb master cylinder, first seen in the 1990s for Mick Doohan. For the 2022 season, there are two variants. The most commonly used is a closed circuit system with a thumb master cylinder and pedal, using a rear two-piston caliper; the second has two discrete circuits - each acting on two or four pistons within the rear caliper. In the former, one system excludes the other; in the latter, they can operate simultaneously. Eight out of 12 teams will use forged magnesium wheels by Brembo owned Marchesini.

In a surprise move, KTM has brought back the 790 Duke - the original 'Scalpel' brings "all-new colourways and a renewed rebellious streak to the world of midweight naked machinery". First seen in 2017, the 790 sold over 29,000 units before being followed by the 890 Duke R - the so-called 'Super Scalpel'. In early 2021, the KTM 790 Duke was upgraded to the KTM 890 Duke, with more power and improved electronics. "The 2022 KTM 790 Duke is the continuation of the story that introduced the world to the power and agility of the KTM LC8c parallel-twin platform".

Two years ago, Triumph announced that it would move the bulk of its production for all markets to Thailand, with arising lay-offs at its Hinkley, UK factory (with still further subsequent pandemic- triggered UK job losses in June 2020). Triumph now appears set to respond what it says is a big rise in UK and European sales by increasing target UK production to 20,000 or more bikes a year (from approx. 4,500 largely specials at present) and hiring 100 new production staff to build them! CCO Paul Stroud says: "Sales were just over 81,500 motorcycles in 2021, 29% growth on the previous year."

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

Yamaha

Yamaha

E01 PoC
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has announced that it will progressively introduce the E01, an 8.1 kW class electric scooter using a fixed (non-removable) battery design, to Europe, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand for real-world proof-of-concept (PoC) testing from July 2022.

The E01 is an electric scooter "featuring usability equal to a 50-125 cc class gasoline-powered scooter and performance suitable for interurban mobility. With an eye on constructing EV infrastructure, vehicle sharing business frameworks and the like, the E01 will also serve as a PoC model aimed at vehicle sharing operators, local governments, government agencies and other parties for the purpose of grasping real user needs, ascertaining possibilities with related businesses, opening up new markets, and more." The model will be manufactured at Yamaha's Iwata main factory in Japan.
The E01's main features include an electric motor developed and manufactured in-house by Yamaha; a battery delivering approx. 104 km of cruising range from a full charge, along with three different charging systems to choose from to best suit usage; a model-specific frame with a design reflecting the technology garnered through sport bike development, and styling based on Yamaha's Jin-Ki Kanno EV Design concept that "places the MOTOROiD concept model at the top of the pyramid".
Yamaha's MOTOROiD is a proof-of-concept experimental electric motorcycle employing artificial intelligence which was exhibited at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. It is aimed at new forms of personal mobility "in which the rider resonates harmoniously with the machine".
The Yamaha Motor Group Environmental Plan 2050 "sets a goal of reducing Scope 3 CO2 emissions (emissions produced from the company's value chain, e.g., use of sold products) by 90% by 2050 compared to 2010". The E01 is a strategic electric vehicle enroute to achieving that goal.

TY-E 2.0 trials bike
Yamaha Motor has made another electrification announcement with the development of the TY-E 2.0 electric trials bike - Yamaha says it plans to enter the bike in select rounds of the 2022 FIM Trial World Championship.
Originally formulated in 2018 and reviewed in 2021, the Yamaha Motor Group Environmental Plan 2050 has a new goal of aiming for carbon neutrality throughout all of its business activities - including across the life cycles of its products - by 2050.

Under its FUN x EV development concept, the TY-E 2.0 "aims to provide more fun than internal combustion engines by taking advantage of the traits unique to electric vehicles, such as powerful low-down torque and strong acceleration.
"The TY-E 2.0's development progressed based on the first TY-E model announced in 2018 and features a newly designed monocoque frame made of composite laminates, housing an electric power unit with improved performance through a combination of mechanical parts and electronic control. The bike also mounts a newly developed lightweight battery with approximately 2.5 times the capacity of the previous model".
The new TY-E 2.0 is scheduled to participate in the FIM Trial World Championship from June this year with Kenichi Kuroyama on the Yamaha Factory Racing Team, who also serves as its development rider.

NEO'S - "strategic electric vehicle"
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the European launch of the 2.5 kW class NEO'S electric scooter utilising a removable battery design. The company also plans to release the model to ASEAN markets in stages.
"The NEO'S is an electric scooter with a simple yet stylish body and features the smooth and agile performance unique to EVs. 

"In Europe, a new segment of users is emerging from the shift away from car-based commuting to two-wheeled commuting, driven by changes in urban systems such as no-entry zones for vehicles, parking problems and traffic congestion.
"The traditional user base for 50 cm3 scooters is also shifting to electric alternatives, thus demand for electric scooters in the equivalent 2.5 kW class is expected to grow in the future. The NEO'S is aimed at answering the needs of Europe's electric scooter market, and the model itself will be manufactured by Yamaha Motor Vietnam Co., Ltd."
The main features include the Yamaha Integrated Power Unit II (YIPU II) "delivering quiet but long-lasting acceleration"; a battery offering approx. 37 km of cruising range from a full charge; a model-specific frame design and new low-loss tyres "for a comfortable, energy-efficient ride" and styling based on Yamaha's Jin-Ki Kanno EV design concept that "places the MOTOROiD concept model at the top of the pyramid".
The company's Yamaha Motor Group Environmental Plan 2050 sets a goal of reducing Scope 3 CO2 emissions (emissions produced from the company's value chain, e.g., use of sold products) by 90% by 2050 compared to 2010. The NEO'S is a strategic electric vehicle that will be introduced to the market in order to help achieve this goal. The initial sales target is 10,000 units a year in Europe with an MSRP of € 2,999.

Piaggio

Piaggio joins the radar revolution By Ben Purvis

Radar was one of the key new technologies to appear on bikes in 2021 - showing up on the Ducati Multistrada V4, BMW R1250RT and R1800, KTM 1290 Super Adventure S and the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX. Now it's set to appear on lower-cost models, even scooters, with Piaggio in collaboration with Israeli company Vayyar.

All the initial radar systems used by BMW, Ducati, KTM and Kawasaki have come from Bosch and are derived from car-mounted radar sensors. Triumph has also launched a radar-equipped model for 2022 in the form of the new Tiger 1200, albeit with a rear-facing sensor only, supplied by Continental.
Piaggio's deal with Vayyar promises something quite different, as Vayyar's radar is a so-called '4D' system that uses far more sensors than rival designs. Its radar-on-a-chip makes for a very compact radar unit, with a longer range than the rival Bosch system and, with many more antennae, it also has a wider field of view and the ability to keep tabs on a greater number of 'targets' in the form of other vehicles or roadside objects.
By monitoring these object's radar reflections and using the Doppler effect, it also works out their direction and speed of travel, helping to build a picture of its surroundings. The wide field of view also means that two radars - one front, one rear - will give nearly 360 degrees of sensor coverage. On the downside, the Vayyar system isn't a proven design with years of development and manufacturing behind it like the Bosch set-up, favoured by the early adopters so far.
Piaggio hopes that the system will be cheap and compact enough to make it viable to use on small, low-cost bikes like scooters, rather than reserving it for high-end models, with the first vehicles fitted with the set-up due to be launched before the end of 2022.

HP Corse

HP Corse for Suzuki GSX-R1000

One of the most celebrated of motorcycle models in recent years - certainly a flagship for Suzuki - the GSX-R1000/R has the track in its DNA, and so has Italian exhaust specialist HP Corse.
Based just outside Bologna, in Italy's famed 'Motor Valley' ("the land where speed was born"), HP Corse has three range options for the 'Gixxer' - the SP-3 Carbon Short, EvoXtreme and Hydroform Short R.

SP-3 Carbon Short

Conceived in its Bologna R&D Centre, the SP-3 Carbon Short 230 Titanium is one of the latest designs from HP Corse and is said to have been "inspired by the shape of a diamond".
The 23 cm long silencer body is made in titanium with carbon fibre end cap and heat shield and an aggressive cut that suggests speed - it is available in a racing version only, without dB killer. Extensively dyno-tested, the company says it delivers "superior performance compared to the OEM exhaust - at all revs". 

ExoXtreme

The EvoXtreme has a 26 cm silencer body with an in-house designed, bracket-free slip-on mounting and "has been designed to completely redesign the profile and rear look of the bike. Also available exclusively in a racing version only without dB killer, it has a titanium silencer body with laser- engraved logo. The irregular shape of the variable geometry silencer body tapers towards the fitting with an oblique cut carbon end cap. Thanks to its record low weight, the EvoXtreme enhances the handling quality and power of the 999.8 cc in-line four-cylinder engine".

Hydroform Short

Finally, the Hydroform Short R is a flagship product for HP Corse and parent company Steelform. "Because of the very high pressures created by hydroforming, we are able to create extraordinary shapes and variable diameters without having to cut or weld the steel. Through the hydroforming process, all the limitations of conventional exhaust design can be set aside, and new, unprecedented aesthetic goals achieved - an aesthetically unique, sinuous and exciting design without welding, without reduced sheet thicknesses, but with an extreme rigidity and strength for record low weights.
"Hydroform Short R is equipped with a very short, welded fitting and an anchoring system to the original manifold that allows it to be supported without a clamp or welded bracket. Also available only in the racing version without dB killer, it has an oblique cut end cap and MotoGP style metal mesh".

HP CORSE
www.hpcorse.com