ACEM

ACEM Decarbonisation online conference

The Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association ACEM (Association des Constructeurs Européens de Motocycles) has announced another in its series of 2022 online conferences: "The Motorcycle Industry's Vision for Decarbonisation".

During the event, a high-level panel of industry and technology experts will discuss the motorcycle industry's latest initiatives in the area of decarbonisation within the context of the EU's climate targets and the industry's Vision 2030+.

They will be joined by a panel of public leaders from the EU and local levels to address current and future policies to place Europe on the path to climate-neutral transport. The event will also focus on current and future decarbonisation technologies, underlining how they can best contribute to the fight against climate change, and the regulatory and technical barriers that still need to be addressed.

Registered participants are invited to send their questions and comments using the hashtag #ACEMVision.

Main topics of the event

• Sustainable mobility and motorcycling at horizon 2030-2050
• Technological options to achieve decarbonisation (e.g. electric powertrains, swappable batteries, synthetic fuels, hydrogen, hybrid powertrains)
• The economic competitiveness of the motorcycle industry in Europe
• Urban and leisure motorcycling across Europe
• Decarbonisation of road transport

Speakers

Michele Colaninno, European Association of Manufacturers (ACEM) President, Piaggio Group Chief Executive of Global Strategy, Product, Marketing and Innovation

Ralf Diemer, eFuel Alliance Managing Director

Bernard Gindroz, Swappable Batteries Motorcycle Consortium Coordinator

Andreas Glück, Member of the European Parliament

Mark Huitema, European Association for Electromobility (AVERE) Director General for Vehicles

Antonio Perlot, European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) Secretary General

Helfried Sorger, KTM Forschungs and Entwicklungs GmbH Managing Director, Chief Technology Officer for Powertrains

Edoardo Turano, European Commission Directorate-General for Climate Action (DG CLIMA), Road transport unit, Deputy Head of Unit

ACEM (Association des Constructeurs Européens de Motocycles)

Motorcycle and moped registrations in 'Big Five' markets - down by -1.4% YTD

The Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association ACEM (Association des Constructeurs Européens de Motocycles) has released its Q3 and first nine months new motorcycle registration data for the 'Big Five' European motorcycle markets - France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK.

For 2023 YTD (January - September) new motorcycle registrations in the five of the largest European markets reached 781,824 units - this represents a decrease of approximately -1.4% compared to the same period in 2021.

Motorcycle registration volumes declined in Italy, where they reached 227,400 units (-3.3% on a year-on-year basis), Germany (173,750 units, -0.5%) and France (154,660 units, -7.9%).

Other motorcycle markets, such as Spain (135,800 units, +6.2%) and the UK (90,190 units, +3.5%), showed an upward trend.

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General: "Preliminary data suggest that motorcycle sales in 2022 will be as good as 2021 - which was a very positive year for our industry."

Moped registrations reached a total volume of 206,900 units in the six European moped markets monitored by ACEM (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain). This registration volume is almost identical to the same period of 2021.

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: "Registration figures for the first three quarters of 2022 show that motorcycle and moped registrations in the EU's key markets remain broadly stable, despite the challenges created by the shortage of semiconductors and shipping delays.

"Next quarter's figures will allow us to assess the performance of the European motorcycle and moped markets for the full year. We may see some differences between national markets, but our preliminary data suggest that motorcycle sales in 2022 will be as good as 2021, which was a very positive year for our industry."

Dorna

Provisional 2023 MotoGP calendar

Dorna has announced its first cut of a 2023 MotoGP schedule for 2023 "with more races and more countries than ever before". 

Competition begins in Portugal at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in March before the Championship heads to Termas de Rio Hondo and Austin, TX, for the Americas GP.

From there, it's back to Jerez as the European leg begins, with Le Mans slated to host the 1,000th Grand Prix before the paddock returns to Mugello, the Sachsenring and Assen.

Kazakhstan is set to debut in July ahead of a second break in the middle of the season, with the Central Asian nation becoming the 30th country to host a motorcycle Grand Prix since 1949 - at the Sokol International Racetrack, which will be the 74th venue to stage a premier class race.

From there the paddock returns west for the British and Austrian GPs, ahead of a new date for the Catalan GP at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya as the event moves to September. The paddock then bids farewell to Europe in Misano ahead of another flyaway stint, beginning in another new country fresh for 2023: India.

The Buddh International Circuit's debut will make it the 75th venue at which the premier class have raced, and India becomes the 31st country to host a motorcycle Grand Prix. From there, the paddock heads further east to Japan and the classic Motegi before a weekend free to gear up for a triple-header.

The season ends with a thriller of a triple-header: from Malaysia the journey back west begins, with Qatar hosting the penultimate race of the season under the floodlights at Lusail as the venue welcomes the sport back to the Middle East. Then, to round out the season with its classic final fiesta of the year, the Circuit Ricardo Tormo brings the competition to a close back in Europe.

www.motogp.com

Vertex

Gajser and Vertex - 2022 MXGP World Champions

Italian performance piston manufacturer Vertex is celebrating yet another year of race success - especially with all-conquering Slovenian Tim Gajser taking his fifth MXGP title (with two rounds to spare), riding the HRC CRF 450R equipped with the multi-titled Vertex GP Racer's Choice pistons.

Top of the Vertex Pistons 4-stroke off-road pistons range, the GP Racer's Choice is hot forged in high resistance VP-310 alloy, equipped with the exclusively machined, F1 inspired T-Bridge and a DLC coated pin, rings in chromed or nitrated steel and the exclusive shape of the head that Vertex has developed - a design that "guarantees excellent performance without any loss of reliability".

Gajser's title was one of many achievements for Vertex equipped riders in 2022. Jeremy Seewer is this year's MXGP Vice-Champion, Jago Geerts' the MX2 Vice-Champion and Nancy Van de Ven took the WMX world title. 

All this in addition to the successes achieved by Maxime Renaux, Glenn Coldenhoff, Mitch Evans and Thibault Benistant - all finishing in the top ten of their respective classes; then there is also the achievements of Kawasaki factory rider Romain Febvre.

www.vertexpistons.com

Benda

Benda V4 cruiser approved in China
By Ben Purvis

Benda is among the more interesting motorcycle companies emerging from China at the moment - in the last couple of years launching two 700 cc inline-four models as well as a range of 300 cc V-twin cruisers - but its new BD500 is arguably the most ambitious machine yet as it debuts China's first V4 motorcycle engine.

The engine was first shown last year in 496 cc and 1,198 cc forms, claiming 56 hp and 151 hp respectively, but appearing nearly identical from the outside. The smaller of the two is reaching production in a cruiser model that's inevitably reminiscent of machines like Yamaha's V-Max.

In production form, the smaller V4 engine makes a peak of 53.6 hp and is mounted in a cast alloy chassis that's similar in concept to designs used by Indian in recent years. Benda's engine is a water-cooled DOHC design, and although the BD500 has yet to be officially announced, has appeared in Chinese type-approval documents, weighing in at 241 kg and has a 1,575 mm wheelbase. 

There's nothing unconventional in the styling, and seen from one side you might think it's a V-twin cruiser. But that exhaust is replicated on the other side as well, proving its four-cylinder arrangement. The upside-down forks, Benda-branded radial brakes and LED headlight are modern touches, as is the alloy frame, but the proportions are conventional, and the twin-shock rear end is absolutely in line with Cruiser tradition. 

Given that the larger 1,198 cc engine is physically similar to the 496 cc version, we may well see a 'BD1200' model that looks very much like this, but has far more performance.

--

LM Creations

Electric BMW boxer conversion 
By Ben Purvis 

The question of how classic bike owners will adapt as and when new models switch to electric power is one that most of us still ignore - but while petrol will still be available for decades to come, it is still an issue that will one day need to be addressed.

Although options like carbon-neutral synthetic e-fuels promise to make even existing combustion engines much greener in future, there's already a movement that's seeing classic cars get converted to electric power. Now there's a motorcycle equivalent courtesy of kits from Dutch company LM Creations.

The company's first offering is an electric conversion for BMW boxers made between 1969 and 1995. To achieve the transformation, LM Creations has created a cast alloy casing that holds the electric motor while mimicking the appearance of the original boxer twin. 

For a modern twist, the prototype isn't fitted with the original bike's now unnecessary cylinders, and simply has the original BMW rocker covers mounted on long studs to put them in the right position, leaving a gap between them and the engine cases.

The motor itself is a 20 kW unit, making 72 Nm of torque and revving to 7,500 rpm. So, when it's bolted to the original BMW transmission, its rev range isn't dissimilar to the original combustion engine it replaces, allowing the gears and clutch to be used conventionally.

To avoid spoiling the bike's look, the battery is a relatively small 4.3 kWh pack, mounted inside the 'fuel tank' - which is actually a purpose-made, fibreglass replica that also houses the control electronics and charger. The frame, brakes and suspension are all unaltered from the original bike.

Since the small battery only weighs 24 kg, and the electric motor is lighter than the petrol engine, the resulting bike isn't much heavier than the BMW it's based on. But it hasn't got a lot of range - LM Creations says it's good for about 80 km between charges at urban speeds, which will equate to rather less than that if you go faster.

Price-wise, each of the components can be had separately, but there are discounts for buying a complete kit. With a slower 1.8 kW charger, the full kit is € 8,950, rising to € 9,450 for a version with a faster 3.3 kWh charger. You'll need a 1969-1995 BMW, too, of course.

In the future, LM Creations intends to make additional kits for other pre-unit bikes including Harley-Davidsons, Urals, Moto Guzzis and Triumphs.

Pyramid Plastics

Pyramid luggage and rear seat racks for Tiger 1200

British bodywork designer Pyramid has added a number of new accessories for the 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200 - a new pillion luggage rack, rear seat rack and six-piece decal kit.

With the recent addition of metal parts design and manufacturing to its established core competency of high-performance plastics, Managing Director Adam Bowser told IDN: "We are rapidly increasing our range of luggage racks to give dealers additional and cost-effective mounting and functional options for luggage security during longer rides. 

"Our new pillion luggage rack is actually a full replacement for the pillion seat in this case, significantly increasing the useable space behind the rider and giving a unique aesthetic once fitted. Using the OEM locking mechanism, it clips in and out, just as the OEM pillion seat would. 

"It can be combined with our new rear seat rack design to further increase the level of available rear storage space, right behind the pillion seat.

"Our new six-piece decal kit has been designed to enhance the graphics of the Tiger 1200, filling in some of the bland plastic areas with a well-thought-out design that adds to the overall image - they are pre-cut to shape and easy to install".

For UK dealers, Pyramid also stocks the full Puig, CustomAcces, Ermax, GB Racing and Eazi Grip ranges of parts and accessories.

PYRAMID PLASTICS

www.pyramid-plastics.co.uk

Wunderlich

Wunderlich additions

German BMW and, more recently, all-brand ADV parts and accessory specialist Wunderlich is one of Europe's more prolific new product designers. Regrettably we here at IDN never have enough room for all the vendors we'd like to feature, never mind all the industry news and information we'd like to publish - which why our MotoWEEK newsletter is such an important additional way for dealers, distributors and manufacturers to keep up with the IDN News Room and Pro-Guide editors. So, here is a brief-details selection of recent Wunderlich product line additions…

GONZZOO for Akrapovic sports silencer

This GONZZOO stainless steel exhaust deflector (delivered with German type approval) for the Akrapovic sports silencer on the BMW R 1250 GS and Adventure is designed to tune and reduce the noise that many find "unpleasant" when riding with the panniers. Differing only slightly in design from the deflector offered for the factory silencer, its noise-reducing effect and the reduction of drone is just as effective. The GONZZOO also shields the case from heat radiating from the exhaust stream. Assembly tool included.

On the case

Luggage cases on the R 18 look vulnerable to damage - the Wunderlich case protection bar for the BMW R 18 Transcontinental and bagger offers preventive protection. The shape of the protection bars follows the lines of the panniers - discreetly integrated into the design without sacrificing the solid, comprehensive protective function. The passenger's freedom of movement is not restricted. In the case of impact from a fall, the forces are distributed and dissipated via three pick-up points each on the protective bar structure, which consists of a 25 mm precision stainless steel pipe. It is available in high-quality chromed or black powder-coated and finished with clear lacquer.

Bagger upgrade

This sissy bar and luggage carrier combo is for the rear of the R 18 B. They feature a passenger pad made from the same high-quality upholstery material used by BMW for its stock seats for a design match, even down to the matching seam pattern of the seat. The styling-match, purist, integrated shape of the luggage carrier with its slightly angled contact positions adds additional luggage options close to the centre of gravity. Made in precision 16 mm steel, both are available chrome plated or black.

Endurance Pro Racing seat

In addition to its comfort-oriented Active Comfort seat, seen here for the current BMW S/M 1000 RR and S 1000 R, the ergonomics of the Wunderlich Endurance Pro rider seat are especially recommended for tall riders - the rider sits a full 40 mm higher. This automatically creates a forward, front-wheel oriented seating position, which has the desired effect of shifting the balance of the super sports bike towards the front wheel. The immediate feedback from the suspension is optimally supported by the seat's firm padding - the seat noticeably optimises the dynamic handling of the RR. Additional features include model-specific 3D contour, neoprene cover and tone-in-tone seams.

Hands on

Wunderlich offers three handlebar options for the R 18: Ape Hanger, Beach Bar and Drag Bar. These are Wunderlich 'Premium' products, handcrafted and produced in small batches. They feature Wunderlich's "integrated and functional" design palette and include German type approval. The original bar end weights can be reused, and they have been prepared for concealed routing of the cables. They are available chromed.

Calms the hurricane

Wunderlich's integrated sporty Marathon windshield for the BMW S 1000 R is said to combine effective wind and weather protection, ergonomic properties and pronounced long-distance comfort. It is tested to offer optimum relief from wind pressure for the upper body and shoulders as well as a noticeable reduction in turbulence. Made from scratch-resistant, petrol and UV-resistant, 5 mm thick clear visibility PMMA plastic without distorting, irritating optical defects. It is hand-polished with all-round edges; the width is 364 mm and height 417 mm.

Authority through leverage

Wunderlich shift and brake lever extensions for the BMW R 18 are added to the comprehensive range of gear and brake lever extensions shown for the R 18. Based on the premise that the standard levers of the R 18 are simply too short, the essential feature of Wunderlich's ergonomic shift and brake levers is their increased extension - making shifting and braking noticeably more manageable and comfortable. They are manufactured from high-quality, high-strength, lightweight aluminium. 

WUNDERLICH GMBH

www.wunderlich.de

Polini

Polini Vespa muffler

Legendary Italian scooter specialist Polini's brand-new original replacement design Vespa muffler is said to deliver "improved performance and reduced noise for both original and standard kit engines.

"Researched and designed to perfectly integrate with the stock Vespa design, its shape and the embossed Polini name recall the iconic Polini muffler - a distinctive mark for generations of Vespa riders".

The bend geometry and interior design deliver a high-level performance gas flow with a controlled but characterful noise level. The muffler is perfectly interchangeable with the original and it has been developed so it can be used on models with the bigger 3.50-10 wheels.

Available for the Vespa 50 Special, 125 ET, 50 PK and 125 PK.

POLINI MOTORI SPA

www.polini.com

EXAN

EXAN options for Ténéré 700

Italian exhaust specialist EXAN has no less than four Euro 5 homologated slip-on offerings for the twin-cylinder Yamaha Ténéré 700 (2021) and a Racing complete system in steel or titanium. 

The Carbon Cap is described as a "classic modern style exhaust" and was the first product from EXAN to use a carbon end cap. It is said to produce "exhilarating performance, especially at low and medium revs" and is lower weight than the stock muffler it replaces. 

Carbon Cap

Featuring a conical shape, the X-Rally is immediately recognisable by its stainless steel outlet with visible welding, aggressive look and the hint of retro about its cylindrical shape. Described as a "light and pure exhaust, it increases power, especially at medium and high revs, without compromising the agility of the Ténéré". 

With its oval shape and its vintage look, OV Rally is a lightweight slip-on that boosts performance (especially at mid-range and high revs) with an advanced gas flow management design, increasing the responsiveness of the Ténéré 700's handling in the curves - "it is immediately recognisable by its conical stainless steel outlet with visible welding - perfect for those looking for an aggressive look". 

X-Rally

Described as being "defined by a strong racing personality", the X-Black Ovale "gives the rear of the Ténéré a decidedly slender appearance. All versions are lighter than the original exhaust and deliver increased power, especially at low and medium revs". 

Finally, and in addition to its homologated exhausts, this 2-1 Racing by Exan is a complete system, in stainless steel or titanium, and is compatible with the original lambda probe, original exhaust silencer and the whole range of EXAN silencers. EXAN recommends the installation of an additional control unit to ensure maximum performance. 

OV Rally

All four slip-ons are available in carbon, titanium and light satin or black satin stainless steel and will mount to the stock manifolds without modifications. All EXAN products are guaranteed for 24 months.

EXAN

www.exanexhaust.com

Honda

Honda global motorcycle units up for Q1

For Q1 of its 2022-2023 financial year, Honda reports 4.251 million global Group unit sales, up by some 372,000 units over the prior year period (consolidated sales were 2.972 million units, up by 580,000).

The A2 licence-friendly 2023 CMX500 Rebel parallel twin-cylinder compact cruiser - new paint options for 23YM. Standard specification includes assist/slipper clutch, LED lighting and gear position indicator. A Rebel S version with factory-fitted accessories (headlight cowl, all-black fork covers and gaiters plus diamond-stitch style seat) now finished in titanium metallic paint.

Those sales generated 676bn yen (€ 4.848bn), which were up by 30.5% year-on-year and said to be mainly due to a sales increase in Asia and favourable currency effects.
This resulted in a motorcycle segment operating profit of 97.8bn yen (approx. € 705m), a year-on-year increase of +21% related to changes in sales prices, costs and favourable currency effects.
Despite the modest increase in unit sales seen in Q1, Honda has kept its full-year forecast (through March 31, 2023) level at 18.560 million units - which will see it having grown unit sales over the prior full year by an extra 1.533 million units.

Benelli

Benelli TRK 702 hits the market
By Ben Purvis

The Benelli TRK 502 twin has been a remarkable success story in its Italian homeland - repeatedly topping sales charts thanks to its low cost despite unbalanced styling and middling performance. Benelli has addressed both those issues by now creating the TRK 702, and it could be the machine that brings the 502's Italian success to a wider global reach.

Launched in China, the TRK 702 is likely to come to Europe and other markets once production gears up, and it already looks like a tempting package. It's the first Benelli to get the 693 cc parallel twin engine that's already appeared in some QJMotor models, including the SRK700 that's now gone on sale in Europe - proving that it meets Euro 5 emissions limits.
With 56 kW (75 hp), the 693 cc engine is a huge step forward compared to the 35 kW (47 hp) 499 cc twin in the TRK 502, but the bigger Benelli isn't very much more expensive than its older sister. In China, where both machines are on sale now, the base TRK 702 costs around the same as the top version of the TRK 502.
The TRK 702's equipment includes heated grips and a heated seat, as well as a built-in, high-definition front camera that feeds a 'driving recorder', allowing rides to be saved and replayed either on the full-colour TFT dashboard or elsewhere. Styled in Italy, the bike's appearance has a distinct family resemblance to the recently launched TRK 800, with a much more modern and appealing design than the 502.
The current TRK 800 uses a 754 cc parallel twin derived from Benelli's old three-cylinder engine - making the same 56 kW output as the newer, cheaper 693 cc.

Cardo Systems

Industry-wide Bluetooth comms agreement

Cardo Systems, UClear and Midland Communications of Italy have jointly announced the launch of 'Open Bluetooth Intercom' (OBI) - an open industry-wide Bluetooth intercom standard, allowing seamless cross-brand Bluetooth intercom connectivity.
Cardo says that the partnership will help overcome many of the common frustrations experienced with traditional 'universally connected' devices and foster a new era of significantly improved cross-brand experience.

Cardo's recently introduced Packtalk Edge will be among the Cardo products supporting the new standard, with existing units able to be brought into compatibility with an online update download.

While 'universal connectivity' enables pairing between cross-brand communicators, the experience for users is often inferior when compared to if they were connected to a device from the same brand. The pairing process can often be complex, previous connections forgotten and not always possible to make phone calls or listen to music in parallel to the intercom connection. All of these challenges are overcome with the introduction of the 'Open Bluetooth Intercom' agreement.

Speaking on behalf of the partners, Shachar Harari, VP of Business Development of Cardo Systems, explained: "Having just launched our 'Universal Communication Solution', the announcement of our 'Open Bluetooth Intercom' further cements our commitment to providing motorcyclists with the best solutions to communicate while riding.
"The new partnership will enable riders to fully enjoy seamless Bluetooth intercom connectivity across the brands and will further foster the penetration of communication solutions among riders worldwide."
'Open Bluetooth Intercom' describes various extensions to the 'Bluetooth Handsfree Profile', designed for direct duplex communications between Bluetooth-capable devices - enhancing the interoperability of different partnership brands in the Bluetooth communicator market, meaning that riders no longer have to agree with fellow riding partners on a brand to buy.
OBI will be supported on the following 2022 lines from Cardo: Spirit, Freecom X, and the Packtalk line is available using an over-the-air update.
Korea based SENA Technology is reported to have declined to go ahead with its involvement in the scheme, having withdrawn from the partnership.
www.cardosystems.com
www.ucleardigital.com
www.midlandeurope.com

Jedi

Jedi K750 - China's sportiest bike yet
By Ben Purvis

The K750 must be the most impressive-looking sports bike to have emerged from China so far. If it had a Ducati or Honda badge, it would be getting championed for moving away from the bikes dominating the market at present. With bodywork that blends seamlessly into the fuel tank, a neatly integrated, belly-mounted exhaust and the choice of either a conventional or single-sided swingarm, it's a bike that deserves more than just a second look!

The chassis is a diecast magnesium alloy twin-spar design carrying a 730 cc parallel twin engine, making 60 kW (80.5 hp) and 70 Nm (51.6 lb-ft) of torque. It's the same engine that features in some of Jedi's other models, but tuned for extra performance. The whole bike was created with the assistance of Suter in Switzerland, and the frame - a single, seamless casting - weighs only 9.3 kg.
KYB fully adjustable upside-down forks, a rising-rate, adjustable shock from the same brand, a multi- faceted headlight, TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity, Brembo brakes and name-brand tyres set it aside from more generic Chinese offerings - Pirellis and Michelins are options. The bike is to be made in a 113-acre factory site where there is already a 35,000 sq m factory, with plans to expand it to 85,000 sq m.
In the future, Jedi plans to add more 'K' series sports models to its range, including 300 cc and 500 cc machines, as well as other bikes using the same platform, and there are already indications that the company has its sights set on markets outside China as it expands further.

Suzuki

Suzuki parallel twin range

We're about to see Suzuki retire one of its most famous engines - the 650 cc V-twin that debuted nearly a quarter of a century ago in the SV650. It will be replaced with a completely new parallel twin engine that will form the basis of a range designed to go head-to-head with Yamaha's MT-07-based line-up.
Suzuki first suggested a middleweight parallel twin back in 2013 when it unveiled the Recursion concept bike, complete with a turbocharged 588 cc SOHC parallel twin engine, making a claimed 100 hp. 

Intended to offer a new balance between economy, emissions and performance, the idea of a boosted two-cylinder continued with 2015's 'XE7' engine, shown at that year's Tokyo Motor Show, with an increased capacity of around 700 cc and DOHC cylinder head XE7 that would have formed the basis of a long development project that is now resulting in Suzuki's upcoming two-cylinder models.
Two bikes using a non-turbocharged version of the XE7 engine were recently spotted on test in Europe, looking very close to production-ready. The first is a naked roadster with styling reminiscent of the GSX-S1000, including stacked rectangular LED headlights, and using oversized air intakes on either side to feed the new engine. This bike, as yet lacking a name but potentially using the 'GSX' designation, will replace the SV650.
Alongside it, an adventure bike using the same engine was also seen on test. Clearly intended to replace the V-Strom 650, it takes a much more serious off-road approach, with a 21-inch wire front wheel and a 17 or 18-inch rear, plus long-travel suspension and substantial engine protection bars to prevent damage to the cases or the exhaust.
Since the new engine is believed to be around 700 cc, it should be good for around 75 hp in normally aspirated form. However, patents from Suzuki over the last few years have shown that a turbocharged version, similar to the original XE7 concept engine, has also been in the works.
This engine has yet to be seen in a test bike, but should it reach production, it could be the solution to Suzuki's sports bike problem in Europe, where emissions limits have long since driven the GSX-R600 and R750 from the market, and, for 2023, the GSX-R1000 is expected to go the same way.

Voge

Voge 525DS and 525AC

Voge is one of the newer Chinese brands to reach the market in Europe, but already two of its key models are set for updates, with the launch of big bore versions of the machines in China.
The company is the high-end brand from Loncin, one of the stalwarts of the Chinese bike industry and the company that BMW chose to manufacture its single-cylinder engines and even some complete models, including the C400 scooters. As such, it is a business that understands the expectations of European customers.

At the moment, Voge sells an extensive range in some European countries, including Germany, while its UK line-up is limited to four models - the 500DS, 500DSX, 500AC and 650DSX. The first two are adventure bikes, with the 500DSX simply a more off-road biased version of the DS, while the AC is a retro-inspired roadster. Apart from the 650DSX, which has a single-cylinder engine, all use a 471cc parallel twin that's very similar in design to the Honda CB500 unit.
Now, Voge is launching a range of '525' models in China to replace the '500' models, although the number isn't quite representative of their capacity. Based on the existing twins, the engines rise to 494 cc, offering a boost in power and torque in the process.
The power increase, from 48 hp to 53 hp, is less useful in Europe than in China, as it pushes the bikes out of the 'A2' licence category that they currently inhabit, so Euro versions - as and when they're launched - are likely to be retuned to meet A2 limits.

Zongshen

Zongshen Cyclone RX6 hits the market
By Ben Purvis

It has been a while since Norton showed the 650 cc parallel twin developed from its 1200 cc V4 superbike engine, and thanks to the company's subsequent bankruptcy and rebirth under TVS ownership, it's going to be a while longer before you can buy one. But riders in China can now get their hands on the same engine thanks to Zongshen's licence-made version powering the company's new RX6 adventure bike.
Recently given a press launch in China, the RX6 looks impressive, not only thanks to that British-developed engine, but due to some high levels of equipment, including at least one idea we've yet to see on any Western production bike.

The engine itself started life being engineered for Norton by the experts at Ricardo, who had also created the V4 superbike engine it's derived from. However, the Norton bankruptcy clearly interrupted its development and Zongshen, which names its version 'ND650', had to invest its own R&D into turning the designs into a showroom-ready engine, altering some internal components. It was also a learning journey for Zongshen and the Chinese bike industry as a whole, since the advanced design of the twin included wear-resistant coatings that were not previously mass-made in China.
Zongshen says its version of the engine has completed 33 reliability tests, including 20,000 cycles of the electric starter and a 400-hour intensive dyno run as well as four 1600-hour endurance runs. Zongshen is also manufacturing the transmission, which the company points out was developed for the original Norton 1200, and therefore massively strong for the 650 engine.
There have been suggestions in China that in the longer term, Zongshen also intends to manufacture a licence-built version of the Ricardo 1200 cc V4, and its experience with the 650 will certainly put it in a good position to do so.
The RX6 sees the engine making 70 hp. It is bolted to a steel frame fitted with upside down forks, radial Nissin brakes with Bosch ABS. Despite the adventure-style stance, the 17-inch alloy wheels and road-oriented tyres show that it is really aimed at on-road touring; 17" wire wheels are an option. Coming in at 245 kg complete with fuel, it's not a lightweight machine, but Zongshen has packed the RX6 with kit, including an unusual twin camera set-up - one front facing, one at the back, both able to simultaneously stream images to the TFT dashboard.
At the moment, the big remaining question is whether the RX6 will be sold outside China. With strong demand inside that country at the moment, and production expected to ramp up over time, it may be a while before we're able to get our hands on the machine, but Zongshen has often sold bikes in Europe, so it's likely that the RX6 will be available in other markets eventually.

MIVV

MIVV X-M5 for Monster 937

Ducati OEM exhaust manufacturer (Monster, Diavel, Streetfighter) MIVV has a new Euro 5 approved application of its X-M5, tuned specifically for the 937 cc Testastretta 11-degree L-twin.
The double outlet on the right side of the stock system is replaced by a 2 in 1 slip-on that preserves the original position - a connection pipe with the original silencer is supplied, as well as an elegant carbon heat shield.

Based on the experience acquired by MIVV in the MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3 Championships, the X-M5 "represents the perfect synthesis between racing style and performance".
Equipped with a 3K twill carbon end cap and a removable protective grill that hides the dB killer, its conical shape and compact dimensions produce what is described a convincing sound.
It is available in Grade 1 titanium with a "pearl effect" finish or 304 stainless steel with a "Black Moon" effect finish that uses a ceramic-based high temperature-resistant coating.
MIVV says that the X-M5 for the Monster 937 delivers +5.30 hp of maximum power gain at the rear wheel, +0.50 Nm of maximum torque and a -1.40 kg weight reduction.
An optional performance-improving stainless steel Decat pipe is offered. Designed for MIVV slip-ons, it can also be combined with OEM mufflers.

MIVV S.P.A.
www.mivv.com

Gianni Falco

Falco 'Land 3' touring boot

Italian riding footwear specialist Gianni Falco describes its updated for 2023 touring mid-boot as "the perfect combination of support, protection and comfort all in one adventure travel boot.
"Our touring mid-boot has finally reached a 3rd step of technical development - renamed as 'Land 3'. The three main features are that it is extremely durable, superbly well made and delivers all-day comfort".

A new upper material combination combining perforated micro-fibre with a High-Tex membrane is said to provide the best performance ever under heavy rain and the ankle is 100% protected by D3O cups inserts. Closure is by a side Velcro strap for comfort and wearability gains and rear calf accordion stretch provides the necessary flex-support.
A hard-wearing, injected rubber sole features a new lugged outdoor anti-slip outsole design.  

GIANNI FALCO SRL
www.giannifalco.com

EXAN

Tuareg 660 exhaust options
 
Italian exhaust manufacturer EXAN has a choice of performance exhaust options for the MY2022 Euro 5 twin-cylinder Aprilia Tuareg 660 - OV-Rally and X-Rally.

X-Rally

Immediately recognisable by its stainless steel outlet with visible welding, X-Rally is "perfect for those looking for an aggressive look, and with a hint of retro cylindrical shape, it is a light and pure exhaust that adds hp and torque - especially at medium and high revs".
Available in carbon, titanium and black stainless steel, it has a slip-on silencer and the 'r' arrangement for mounting to the stock headers without modification - it differs from the similar looking EXAN X-GP with a conical shape end cap.

OV-Rally

Also seen here, the OV-Rally is a second EXAN Euro 5 slip-on option for the Tuareg 660, with an oval shape and vintage look, and is also available in carbon, titanium, stainless steel and black stainless steel, with hp and torque increases in the mid and high revs.

EXAN
www.exanexhaust.com

The Swappable Batteries Motorcycle Consortium (SBMC)

SBMC - 21 members, and counting

The Swappable Batteries Motorcycle Consortium (SBMC) was founded in September 2021 by KTM, Honda, Piaggio and Yamaha and has grown quickly - it now has 21 members (and counting).
Founded with the mission to accelerate the deployment of swappable battery systems by developing and promoting new common technical specifications towards global and open standardisation, in its first six months, the consortium took essential initial steps at an incredible pace.
The aim is to ensure full interoperability of swapping batteries to facilitate their application and boost sustainable mobility.

An SBMC Summit was held in July 2022, with 40 of its representatives convening at the KTM Motohall in Mattighofen, Austria.
"This event was the perfect occasion to reflect on the progress made over the consortium’s first semester of existence, and to set the scene for upcoming activities towards standardisation.
"The vision, strategy and operations of the consortium were established across its members, the committees and working groups. The consortium was equipped with the proper tools and instruments to fulfill its ambitions. The set of relevant technical specifications was agreed upon, and the SBMC’s work streams on prototyping and standardisation were successfully kicked off."
Strategic positions were also taken, among which are the acceptance of the SBMC as Formal Liaison Member to the CEN-CENELEC and membership in CEN-TC301 and CEN-CENELEC JTC-13.
The three European Standardisation Organisations that have been officially recognised by the European Union and by the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) as being responsible for developing and defining voluntary standards at European level are CEN (European Committee for Standardisation), CENELEC (the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation) and ETSI (The European Telecommunications Standards Institute).
"The consortium’s constructive approach has enabled it to overcome the technical challenges of developing interconnected and compatible systems. The SBMC is on track to achieve its goals, as planned, and can now count on the best available expertise in the world to do so."
​The current members are: AVL, Ciklo, Fivebikes, Forsee Power, Hioki, Honda, Hyba, JAMA, Kawasaki, KTM, Kymco, Niu, Piaggio, Polaris, Roki, Samsung, Sinbon, Sumitomo, Suzuki, Swobbee, Vitesco, VeNetWork, Yamaha.
www.sb-mc.net

MotoFuture

EV sceptics frequently point to the unholy trinity of infrastructure, range and price as reasons why electrification is not a satisfactory forward-facing transport solution. However, researchers at MIT may have found a solution to the charging conundrum. In a paper published by MIT's (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Donald Sadoway (along with 15 other authors from Peking University, Yunnan University, Wuhan University of Technology, University of Louisville, University of Waterloo and Argonne National Laboratory), the Materials Chemistry Professor claims to have found a cheap solution to expensive lithium-ion batteries. Using the second-most commercially available and most Earth-abundant metal, aluminium, and the cheapest available non-metal, sulphur, as the battery's other electrode and a molten salt electrolyte. While the battery's composition prioritises cost-efficiency and easily obtainable resources, Professor Donald Sadoway cites several additional advantages - "the ingredients are cheap, and the thing is safe - it cannot burn." The aluminium-sulphur battery still prizes heat, however. Studies showed that the unit actually charged 25 times faster at 110 degrees Celsius (230 degrees Fahrenheit) compared to 25 C (77 F). What's more, the battery generates heat during both charging and discharging periods. This allows it to maintain an optimal operating temperature while keeping the salt solution from freezing.

In yet another apparent breakthrough in battery technology, scientists from MIT have invented a new approach to the storage of power generated by solar panels and other kinds of renewable green energy for when the weather isn't cooperating - a relatively inexpensive aluminium-sulphur alternative to the use of lithium-ion in home storage batteries. Aluminium is the second most plentiful metal on the planet, after iron. It is also cheap - sulphur is the least costly non-metal element and is also abundant. The entire battery can be made for about a sixth of the cost of its lithium equivalent- and it cannot burn. The battery is additionally ideal for use at electric vehicle charging stations as well as powering homes and small or medium-sized businesses. Full charge is reached in less than one minute.

A recent J.D.Power survey reports that the growth of electric vehicle (EV) sales during the past year in the USA has been remarkable, but that it has added stress to an already beleaguered public vehicle charging infrastructure. Owners in high EV volume markets like California, Texas and Washington, for instance, are finding the charging infrastructure inadequate and plagued with non-functioning stations - this is despite there being more public charging stations in operation than ever before. The shortage of public charging availability is said to be the number one reason vehicle shoppers reject EVs.

In recent years, many so-called experts and analysts have stood up at conferences or published Op-Ed pieces and papers explaining that because there will never be any new battery chemistry or architecture to deal with the crippling issue of renewable energy storage, the bright new, clean, green future being promised is doomed to die in darkness. Well, tell that to a certain Mr. Matti Ulvinen, product sales manager at Polar Night Energy, a small six-person start-up in Finland. The company has developed the world's first commercially operated sand battery. Yes, you read that right, good old basic low-grade sand! Successful neighbourhood heat storage trials near Helsinki have proven that sand can be heated to 500 degrees C (compared to 100 C for water) and that it retains the generated heat in a closed loop system without significant loss for months on end. Unlike water, it does not evaporate or turn to steam and can therefore be released locally as demand requires, rather than needing to be used immediately.


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

UK motorcycle registrations

UK: motorcycle registrations +5.77% for first eight months

It is odd to be pointing to a downward trend in a market where YTD new motorcycle registrations are +5.77% (78,216 units) for the first eight months of the year, but despite the most recent available data from the MCIA (the motorcycle industry trade association in the UK) showing that August was the first month of market growth since April (+2.30%/8,171 units), that is the inescapable conclusion of a YTD analysis.

The UK saw statistically anomalous increases of +68.38% (5,789 units) and +87.12% (4,706 units) in January and February respectively. That was followed by +35.26% (15,704 units) in March - traditionally the best month for motorcycle sales in the UK - a drop to +3.86% (10,627 units) for April and -11.02%/11,237 units, -15.59%/11,801 units and -11.90%/10,181 units for May, June and July.
The year-to-date sales trend for motorcycles has declined every month of the year since January and now sits at +5.77% so far in 2022. Though at 78,216 units YTD, 2022 has still seen the best market performance for the first eight months of the year in the UK since 2016.
Total new PTW registrations were +2.66% (8,768 units) and -11.39% in July (10,925 units) and running at +6.01% for the first eight months - 83,210 units compared to 78,492 last year.
Within that data, total scooter sales in the UK were +2.9% for the first eight months at 23,065 units; the top selling scooter in the UK in August was the Honda PCX 125.
Honda was market share leader in August (1,509 units sold), followed by Yamaha, BMW, Triumph, Lexmoto, KTM, Royal Enfield, Piaggio, Benelli and Kawasaki.
For the record - motorcycle registrations for the full year 2021 in the UK were +10.17 at 106,355 units - the best UK annual market since before 2009. Total PTWs were +9.39% at 113,397 units. Scooter sales were 26,154 units (+17.5%).

CFMoto

CFMoto brings 450SR twin to Europe

By Ben Purvis

CFMoto's 450SR is probably the company's most ambitious machine to date. Previewed with the Italian-styled SR-C21 concept at last year's EICMA, the production 450SR has since been launched in Asia and is now confirmed for European markets in 2023.

While the styling is a clear evolution of the look seen on CFMoto's existing, smaller-capacity SR models, the 450SR is completely new and built around a dedicated 450 cc parallel twin engine. This water-cooled DOHC motor uses a 270-degree firing interval from a crossplane crankshaft, giving the feel and sound of a 90-degree V-twin combined with the tight packaging and reduced component count of a parallel twin engine. Dual balancer shafts keep it smooth and there's a slipper clutch between the engine and the six-speed transmission.
Although the final power figures for European bikes won't be confirmed until after homologation, the Asian version is good for 37 kW (50 hp) at 9,500 rpm and 39 Nm of torque at 7,600 rpm, in a package weighing only 168 kg, including fuel. That low mass means it'll be hard to detune the bike enough for A2 licence regulations in Europe, but for full licence holders looking for a lightweight sports bike, it fills a gap in the market that's been empty since the demise of two-stroke machines like the 55 hp, 167 kg Aprilia RS250 two decades ago.
High-spec chassis components include 37 mm upside-down forks and a Brembo brake system using a single 320 mm disc and a four-piston, radial-mount caliper at the front, with Bosch ABS.
--

Motobi

Motobi debuts 400 cc twin

By Ben Purvis

The Motobi brand might have been born in Italy in the 1940s, but the current iteration of the company is Austrian - operating as an importer for Chinese-made machines that are rebranded to be sold under the Motobi name. 

Motobi DL 400

While the company has been offering a line of 125 cc single-cylinder machines for a while, Motobi is debuting a new 400 cc parallel twin of the DL 400. The DL 400 will be almost identical to the Senke SK400, a machine that's already offered in China and which features some interesting specs. It's built around a Zongshen-made 378 cc twin with 37 hp and 35 Nm of torque, with Delphi fuel injection, a slipper clutch and Bosch ABS brakes.

Senke SK400

Less commonplace is the fact that the Senke model also has a built-in USB and Bluetooth system to connect to your phone, with a tank-mounted control pad to alter volume and skip tracks, along with additional LCD readout. Other known specs of the Senke model include a 16-litre fuel tank and a 1,410 mm wheelbase, while the steel-framed machine weighs a respectable 181 kg wet.
The first images of the Motobi DL 400 show it with large side scoops and a circular headlight. Senke also has two other styles for the same machine, one with a more aggressive-looking headlight (identical to that used on a smaller 125 cc Motobi model), the other is a more overtly retro design, with the circular headlight, but a more traditionally shaped tank.

Matris

Matris - Interceptor 650 suspension upgrades

Italian suspension specialist Matris continues to add new applications to its ever-growing list of rear shock absorber and front suspension cartridge options - seen here for the popular 'modern-classic' Interceptor 650 roadster from Royal Enfield.

Available in Matris' Dark version, to optimise the bike's styling, the M40KC and M40D shock absorber series are ready to install options that are said to "improve handling and comfort," says Matris' Alberto Turcato. The base line M40D set features adjustable rebound, length and preload, with the M40KC top-line twin-shock set adding full adjustment on the compression stroke. 

In addition to its entry-level FKE and FSE fork kits, at the front the performance of Matris' award- winning 20 mm F15K hydraulic cartridge with the "quad valve system" allows fully adjustable compression, rebound and preload. It replaces all the original internals and is a ready to fit, 100 percent plug-and-play, fully reversible install with no modification to the original fork required.

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