ACEM

Q1 2023 European registrations - "return to pre-Covid market trends"

The Brussels based European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers - ACEM - has released new motorcycle registrations data for Europe's 'Big Five' markets (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK), reaching 253,859 units during the first quarter of 2023. This represents an increase of approximately +15.5% compared to the same period in 2022 (219,826 units).

Motorcycle registration volumes significantly increased in Italy (78,997 units, +31.1% year-on-year) and both Spain (44,127 units, +13.4%), and Germany (54,964 units, +13.2%) also showed an upward trend. Volumes grew in France (48,945 units, +7.21%) and the market remained broadly flat in the UK (26,826 units, +1.7%).

In motorcycle registration terms, the 'Big Five' markets routinely account for around 80% of the European motorcycle sales total. It is, therefore, possible to extrapolate a reasonably reliable 'guesstimate' European total for Q1 (all European markets) of approximately 318,000 to 320,000 units. 

Moped registrations reached a total volume of 43,610 units in the six European moped markets monitored by ACEM (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain). This registration volume represents a reduction of -24.5% in comparison to Q1 of 2022 (57,737 units). The decline is widespread in the monitored countries, except in Belgium, where volumes continued to increase.

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: "The first quarter results of the year must be interpreted cautiously, considering the significance of spring and summer for the European powered two-wheeler market. 

"Although there were considerable fluctuations when compared to the same period in 2022, Q1 data confirms a growing trend of users favouring motorcycles and scooters to mopeds. This shift supports both urban and short-range mobility, as well as a sustained interest in leisure riding. 

"Thus far, the figures seem to align with long-term, pre-Covid trends. A more definitive outlook for 2023 will emerge as Q2 and Q3 data becomes available."

News Briefs

Alvaro Bautista's hat-trick at Assen's "Cathedral of Speed" in April earned Ducati its 400th victory in the WSBK World Championship. That is more than double that of the second-placed manufacturer in this classification - "an extraordinary result that is added to the more than one thousand podiums taken by Ducati riders in a competition in which Ducati has been an 'ever-resent' since the debut of the series in 1988, taking 15 Riders' World Titles and the 18 Manufacturers' World Titles in that time.

Verge Motorcycles, the electric superbike pioneer, has formed an Advisory Board comprising top industry leaders to support its plans for global conquest. "The esteemed experts provide motor sports and technology know-how that will be vital for the company's international expansion. Verge is already enjoying strong growth, and the company is now recruiting top talent for its new Innovation Office in London". New advisors so far include Mark Wilson, former CFO of Aston Martin Lagonda PLC and McLaren Automotive, and F1 legend Mika Häkkinen. Verge is recruiting for its Innovation Offices in Tallinn, San Francisco and London.

Over 15,000 Ducati enthusiasts are said to have gathered at their local dealerships around the world for the second iteration of the Ducati '#WeRideAsOne' on Saturday 6 May, with 334 Ducati dealers and 159 international Ducati Official Clubs participating on all five continents. As a result of the success, Ducati says it will now make the event a fixed annual calendar feature to take place on the first Saturday of May.

Yamaha has established a U.S. based Yamaha Motor Exploratory Fund, L.P. II, a company-financed ten-year fund with a total investment of $100m for exploring technologies and opportunities aimed at new business domain expansion and securing competitive advantages (PSB/Visor Down). This is the second such fund in the past five years that Yamaha has invested in. The search for companies to invest in will be carried out by Yamaha Motor Ventures (YMV) - Yamaha's corporate venture capital arm.

MotoAmerica has announced that it will again qualify riders for the 2023 FIM MiniGP World Series through the Mission Mini Cup by Motul Series, but this year will do so in two of the Ohvale-spec classes. Last year, two riders qualified for the World Series in the 160 class, and this year the series will also host qualifying races for the 190 class. There will be five rounds in total.

Brembo has announced record results for FY2022 with revenues at € 3,629m, up +30.7% over 2021, with net profit € 292.8m (+35.9%). Its net financial position improved by € 128.6m. EBITDA was € 625.2m (EBITDA margin: 17.2%); EBIT was € 382.8m (EBIT margin: 10.5%). 

Nolan Helmets has appointed Enrico Pellegrino as CEO and General Manager at the Bergamo-based helmet brand. Before joining Nolan in January 2023, he held senior positions at Ford, Ducati, Yamaha, Peugeot Motorcycles and, most recently, at MV Agusta. Nolan, together with Shark, Troy Lee Designs, Segura Bering, Cairn Sport and Casco is part of the 2Ride Group. Nolan began manufacturing and selling motorcycle helmets in 1972.

Founded by Charles Wakefield in 1899, the Castrol brand is recognisable the world over and is one of the motorcycle industry's oldest and most revered of brand properties - iconic, evocative and still sought after as a badge of honour. Bought in 2002 (as part of Burmah Castrol) by BP (formerly British Petroleum) - itself a storied British brand - it is always a brave brand owner and manager who would seek to redirect such a brand's visuals. But that is what BP has done with Castrol this year - with an "updated look and feel to reflect changing customer needs". Related changes include the introduction of 'Castrol ON' - a range of "advanced fluids and lubricants for electric vehicles" and a $60m investment in a new EV battery test centre and analysis laboratory in the UK. Look for the new brand identity to be phased in across all Castrol European offices between now and 2024. 

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

BS Battery

BS Battery lithium technology

French battery and charger manufacturer BS Battery is spending heavily to develop and offer new technologies - especially in the lithium battery sector - and offers distributors and their dealers access to "an exhaustive line of lithium batteries and chargers that have been designed with and for OEM motorcycle manufacturers".

BS Battery Product Manager Romain Menduni told IDN: "Though associated with lightweight, high- performance characteristics of motorcycle racing, in fact pretty much all riders can use lithium batteries - especially those who are looking for the best performance from their motorcycles. 

"In fact, we offer lithium batteries for all powersports industry platforms - from road and race bikes to power-hungry, big capacity V-twins and cruisers of all types and even ATV/SSV models, snowmobiles and PWCs."

One concern that riders sometimes express is that lithium batteries are not a year-round solution. When lithium technology first started to make its way into the motorcycle market, there was a widespread myth that they do not achieve optimum performance in extreme operating temperatures.

"That is indeed a myth," says Menduni, "and I am pleased to say that the misunderstanding has pretty much disappeared now - especially since so many new models now feature lithium batteries as standard.

"Our batteries meet or exceed OEM requirements and can resist up to 230°C heat temperatures and are also able to start an engine after a very long period of storage - even in very cold temperature conditions. Our lithium batteries are a superior and genuine year-round solution.

"Another big advantage over lead-acid batteries is the weight saving - up to 70 percent lighter than lead-acid equivalents and with a charging process that is up to twice as fast. Motorcycle designers and customisers also love lithium batteries because they can be installed at an up to 180-degree angle of inclination."

Installation is a lot easier with contemporary lithium technology than it was with the first generations. BS Battery recommends checking the regulator and maximum tension of the bike before the installation, but then they are quite easy to install - "all our lithium batteries are 100% ready to use, they are a genuine 'plug & play' technology," says Menduni.

"Because our batteries were initially developed for OEM use and continuously tested for reliability in racing conditions, the reliability and durability of BS Battery lithium technologies really are state-of-the-art. Our BSLI02 is approved by many racing teams all over the world, and feedback from race and OEM engineers allows us to improve our range constantly.  

"We also pay attention to small details like the LED indicator on top of the casing, so the state of charge can be seen quickly without the need to disconnect the battery from the bike. Much smaller than acid ones, our batteries are delivered with spacers to limit vibrations for a better riding comfort. We've also designed robust brass terminals to enhance electrical performance. In fact, we don't provide products but solutions. Our France based R&D team is 100 percent focused on making life easier for workshops and riders."

The BS Battery range features 14 different lithium part numbers, but the good news for dealers is that just three of them can cover up to 80 percent of the existing circulating park fitments - making inventory management easy. "We've also created an online tool called BATTERY FINDER, available on our website to help the dealers and riders find the fitment that is best for their motorcycle". 

BS BATTERY

www.bs-battery.com

GPR Italia

GPR Tech - V-Strom 650

Italian exhaust specialist GPR Italia has leveraged its manufacturing expertise to start a new line of luggage and related touring accessories called GPR Tech.

Initially the new brand is dedicated to accessories for Adventure models, and seen here is a new model-specific top case kit for the Suzuki V-Strom 650 - "to add a dash of Italian style to the Japanese engineering". 

Made of aluminium and equipped with an internal padded lining to protect the contents, including helmets, they are available in black and silver colour in 35, 45 and 55 litre capacity. The kit is equipped with a specific mounting plate, designed especially for the geometry of the V-Strom.

GPR ITALIA S.R.L.

www.gprtechparts.com

Motoz

Motoz Tractionator GPS 

The Australian tyre brand that revolutionised off-road performance, looks to have done it again with the new Motoz Tractionator GPS - for a "new level of performance and reliability".

Front & Rear

Motoz says that Tractionator GPS is "designed for off-road enthusiasts who demand the best" and that it is "engineered to conquer the toughest terrains and deliver unparalleled traction, control and durability".

"Our best-selling Tractionator GPS tyre is a game-changer for riders who need dependability in all conditions. Designed and engineered for long mileage, serious grip and smooth transition from pavement to gravel to dirt, it has the unique feature of being reversible to suit the rider’s needs -either 50/50 or mostly off-road direction.

"In 50/50 direction, the Motoz Tractionator GPS is a well-behaved street-able tyre with smooth cornering transition from centre to 'cranked all the way over'. In mostly off-road direction, the tread enables more aggressive off-road cornering and mid-corner drive is improved.

"The Motoz Tractionator GPS is the ultimate choice for off-road enthusiasts looking for unparalleled performance. Designed specifically for challenging terrains, this tyre excels in providing optimal grip and traction. Its aggressive tread pattern and deep, self-cleaning knobs ensure superior performance in the 50/50 tyre segment".

The tyre's construction features a unique hybrid compound with silica for both long mileage and excellent grip in varied road conditions. 

A stronger carcass construction than seen on other 50/50 adventure tyres, the Motoz Tractionator GPS "provides world class performance with a high resistance to punctures and abrasions, minimising the risk of tyre damage and providing peace of mind to riders".

MOTOZ PTY LTD

www.motoz.com.au

Andreani Group

Off-road springs for custom ride tuning

Andreani Group, Italy, has these new front suspension and rear shock absorber springs for off-road riders who want to be able to tune their suspension to match the rider and the type of riding they do.

Sales Manager Diego Arduini says: "A small person riding motocross wants a different setup than a bigger person riding an enduro. We can offer the perfect match of rear springs and fork springs for each of those riders. And our springs are a perfect match for the OE spring fitment, with no adapter rings and better materials."

"Our founder Giuseppe Andreani is a motocross champion, and our design team in Italy has worked hard to create a product that meets the needs of all types of off-road motorcycle riders," continued Arduini. "Since every rider is different, we have a wide range of rates and measures, ensuring that each rider gets the perfect fit for their riding style."

The new springs are a direct replacement for Showa, Kayaba, Sachs, WP and several other brands. "The 'plug and play' capability, superior materials and broad range of fitment makes them an easy choice for an upgrade to a bike's suspension system."

Andreani offers its dealers guidance on how to fit front and rear springs to a specific rider, primarily based on rider weight and type of riding. Andreani springs work in conjunction with the existing hydraulic shocks to ensure the perfect setup of rebound and damping.

Andreani Group International has distribution centres in its hometown of Pesaro, Italy, Barcelona, Spain, and its recently opened Andreani USA in Hendersonville, North Carolina. "Since its beginning in 1987, the company has been focused on products, training and support for technicians and tuners to help riders get the most from their bikes," said Arduini.

ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL

www.andreanigroup.com

Athena

Athena - extreme performance off-road big bore kits

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023, Italian based high-performance motorcycle, scooter and moped spare parts specialist Athena has introduced new 85 mm diameter extreme big bore cylinder kits for Honda and Yamaha 250 cc off-road models.

"The Athena R&D Department succeeded in designing and developing a solution that filled a market gap: a cylinder kit with extreme increased bore that allows an unprecedented increase in power, bringing the displacements of Yamaha and Honda bikes up to 304 cc and 288 cc, respectively," says Product Manager Marco Meneguzzo.

Honda displacement is increased to 288 cc

The kit can be installed without making any modifications to the motorcycle crankcase. "In fact, the entire kit guarantees maximum performance, better delivery, more torque at low and medium revs, better response and reliability that is at least equal to the original parts it replaces".

Fully designed, developed, prototyped, tested and validated in-house by the Athena R&D team, then tested on the road and track by their riders, "the result is a combination of engine components that ensure maximum synergy between them.

"The winning feature of this revolutionary kit is the cylinder resulting from the union of two different materials - aluminium alloy with a high silicon content, mated to a steel cylinder liner. The cylinder liner is placed directly into the mould through an innovative co-fusion production process. This internally designed and tested method allows efficient mechanical gripping, ensuring perfect union and reliability over time.

"The cylinder liner is finished with a galvanic treatment and a nickel-silicon coating, developed by the Athena R&D department, to obtain maximum smoothness and optimal resistance to wear even under high performance conditions".

Yamaha displacement is increased to 304 cc

The forged aluminium alloy piston in the kit is a highly engineered, highly resistant, lightweight, precision CNC-machined performance design with "guaranteed perfect geometries and reduced tolerances". 

"The lower structure has a fully open boxed, bridged design to combine greater resistance to fatigue, lightness and a better cooling of the piston crown. The geometry of the piston crown also optimises the compression ratio to guarantee greater driving elasticity and reliability over time".

The piston pin has been specifically designed for this type of extreme application. It is biconical and made in aeronautical steel alloy, with included rings that were made in Japan for these kits.

The gaskets included in the kit have been developed by Athena technicians and include cylinder head and base gaskets specifically designed for the new bi-metal aluminium cylinder and steel liner combination to guarantee maximum seal even under the most extreme stresses.

ATHENA

www.athena.eu

BAAS Bike Parts

USB12 2-amp mini USB socket

German electronic accessory specialist BAAS Bike Parts' new USB12 is one of the smallest USB on-board sockets available and is the successor to its successful type USB2, but, importantly, now with 2A USB charging current.

The 1.2 m cable with battery ring cable lugs allows flexible attachment to the handlebar or linkage with the supplied cable ties.

The mini design is IP54 waterproof, delivering a full 2 amp of charging power with 1.2 m long cable for flexible installation and included fuse and holder. BAAS also offers an optional USH screw holder for surface mounting.

BAAS BIKE PARTS

www.baas-parts.de

Barnett Clutches & Cables

ZX-10R performance clutch kit

This performance clutch kit for the 2006-23 Kawasaki ZX-10R by California based Barnett Clutches & Cables features carbon-based friction plates and a set of heavy-duty clutch springs. 

"These carbon friction plates have exceptional heat tolerance and the segmented design increases oil flow through the clutch, resulting in longer life and more consistent performance. The heavy-duty clutch springs are 10% stiffer than stock, shot-peened and heat-treated".

Equally well known for its extensive range of brake and clutch cables, Barnett has been manufacturing all its products in-house in the USA since 1948.

BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES

www.barnettcables.com

Kappa

KV37 Evo Sharp Lady jet helmet

The KV37 Evo Sharp Lady has been specifically designed for female riders, "bold and recognisable thanks to its contemporary graphics that play on the tones of black and fuchsia, offering full technical features, including a smoked visor, ventilation system and micrometric chin strap".

The helmet is made of thermoplastic material, equipped with a transparent anti-scratch visor and a smoked sun visor. Features include an upper air vent, the inner lining is removable and washable, and the micrometric strap allows easy and secure fastening. Additionally, "the helmet has a particularly gritty personality, underlined by the 'sharp' and clear-cut shape of the graphic lines that wrap around the shell".

Another noteworthy element is the choice of three colours, black grey and fuchsia, "a combination that is as feminine as it is daring, flanking dark and neutral tones with a vivid hue that almost creates the illusion of a neon insert".

The KV37 Sharp Lady jet helmet is available in sizes from XS to XL and is certified according to ECE 22-06 standard. It weighs 1,150 +/- 50g.

KAPPA

www.kappamoto.com

eFuel

EU boost for eFuel

The rhetoric from the European Union over the future of internal combustion engines has started to change - opening the door to a future of eFuel-powered vehicles where previously there's been a single-minded focus on battery-electric vehicles.

Although the EU has yet to legislate on a date for the end of ICE-powered motorcycle sales, there are rules in place that will see all carbon-emitting new cars removed from sale by 2035. Previously, these rules have been interpreted to include a ban on eFuel vehicles, which use so-called 'drop-in' liquid hydrocarbon fuels to replace petrol or diesel. 

These fuels can be created from carbon dioxide harvested from the atmosphere and combined with 'green' hydrogen, so they remove as much greenhouse gas from the atmosphere during their manufacture as they later emit when burnt. The result is that while an eFuel-powered ICE vehicle still emits carbon dioxide, its net impact on global warming is zero.

It's already a route that's interesting the motorcycle industry, with MotoGP due to adopt a 40% eFuel mix next year and shift to 100% eFuel by 2027, with F1 moving to eFuel in 2026. The aviation industry is also a driving force behind the technology: it's not viable to create intercontinental airliners using zero-emissions electric or hydrogen fuel in the immediate future, and the power-to-weight and power-to-volume issues of those technologies are still seemingly insurmountable problems. Meanwhile, eFuel arguably allows a switch to carbon-neutrality without changing the underlying technologies of combustion engines and jets, whether they're for road transport, shipping or aviation.

'the combustion engine could get a stay of execution'

There are still stumbling blocks, of course. Technologies to make large volumes of eFuel are still in the prototype stage, although there's a pilot plant in Chile, created by Porsche and Siemens Energy, that's pumping out 130,000 litres per year and intends to ramp up to 550 million litres per year by the end of the decade. The electrolysis to derive hydrogen from water to create eFuel is relatively energy-intensive, but provided the plants use abundant solar, wave or wind power to achieve it, there's no environmental impact.

Germany's government, a coalition of Greens, Social Democrats and the business-oriented Free Democratic Party, has been pushing for the EU to allow eFuel-powered combustion engines even after the planned 2035 cut-off for carbon-emitting vehicles. The country's automotive industry is a clear reason for such interest, but it's a technology that could prove essential for motorcycling. 

Unlike cars, where there's abundant room for batteries and a few hundred kilos of extra weight goes almost unnoticed, motorcycles have no such luxury, and the challenge of building an electric bike that can match current expectations from combustion engine models in terms of performance, range, weight, handling and cost has so far proved impossible to meet.

'drop-in liquid hydrocarbon fuels'

Finally, eFuels offer the tempting prospect that they could allow not only future vehicles to be environmentally friendly, but also allow existing combustion-engine machines to become carbon-neutral. If the fuels are brewed as exact drop-in replacements for petrol, they could allow the existing fleet to go green without the huge investment - both financial and environmental in terms of raw materials - needed for a wholesale shift to electric vehicles.

Plus, the economic, social and environmental advantages of not having to completely overhaul established infrastructure is an often overlooked but huge additional benefit. 

American Report

Respected motorcycle crash protection manufacturer R&G Racing has announced a new partnership for the USA with Brands That Shine (Gunnar Heinemeyer and founder Jessica Shine). "The company will work to further boost the growth of R&G in the U.S. through increased dealer support and a heightened presence at the track." The move marks a significant step forward for the British brand as it expands its reach across the U.S. market, with Brands That Shine opening channels and boosting dealer awareness to grow the business in the U.S.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, has announced that the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) contributed more than $500,000 in grant awards for 2022, satisfying a commitment made in honor of National Public Lands Day. "The final funding cycle for 2022 in the fourth quarter provided meaningful support to a wide variety of projects - from California desert clean-up and state-wide riding trail maintenance in Washington to multiuse bridges and trail resurfacing - making public lands sustainably accessible for motorized and outdoor recreation."

Former Executive VP of Operations Alex Acket has been promoted to COO of Scotts Valley, California based Zero Motorcycles. "In conjunction with our recent raise of $167m, and in light of our recent partnership announcements, Zero is reconfiguring its business for greater efficiency and profitability," said Sam Paschel, Zero Motorcycles CEO.

Gates Industries' innovative Moto X5 belt "is a significant addition to the Gates Carbon Drive portfolio as it offers the same core belt drive benefits of clean, quiet, smooth, strong, but with even quieter performance than its predecessors". Gates says it achieved this breakthrough in belt technology through the combination of a high-stiffness, long-lasting synthetic compound with Gates long-proven carbon fibre cord reinforcement. The product line is designed specifically for mid-motor sit-down electric scooters and motorcycles - typically found in commuting applications in the rapidly evolving Asian market. 

Damon Motors (Vancouver, BC), the "premier EV motorbike company," says it is approaching $100m in orders and has formed a partnership with PT Indika Energy Tbk., Indonesia's leading diversified energy company. Indika has also made an undisclosed investment in Damon and will serve as the distributor for Damon's line of motorcycles in the Indonesian market. Best known for its HyperSport and HyperFighter E-sports bike designs, the partnership with Indika will see Damon develop a new global motorcycle platform specifically for the needs of commuters in geographies such as Indonesia that are dominated by two-wheel mobility; www.damon.com

Arrowhead Engineered Products (AEP - the Blaine, Minnesota based owner of WPS, HardDrive, Bihr, Vertex and All Balls among others) - has opened a new 'Mega Warehouse' at Portland, near Nashville, TN. Said to feature "advanced logistics technology to enhance service and delivery capabilities", the 540,000 sq ft aftermarket parts distribution facility will employ 400 people full-time when fully commissioned. AEP says this will take its North American fulfilment and distribution centre network number to 22 locations.

H-D is looking for a new CFO already. Gina Goetter joined H-D in 2020, but has now left to "accept an opportunity outside the company". David Viney will serve as Interim CFO and Treasurer until an executive search concludes.

BRP reported Q4 revenues of CAN $3,076.3m, an increase of CAN $728.8m or 31% compared to the same period last year, a record performance for a single quarter in the company's history. Retail sales were 21% up for powersports products, with North American SSV market share gains. FY2023 revenues were +31%, reaching an all-time record high of $10,033.4m, achieving market share gains of over +5% in North America. BRP continued to invest in "future market-shaping products" with the completion of three acquisitions, the creation of its LVHA Group and the start of construction of a Can-Am electric two-wheel motorcycle production facility in Querétaro, Mexico.

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

BRP Inc.

BRP European Design Centre

BRP Inc. (Bombardier Recreational Products, Canada - owner of Rotax and Can-Am among other enterprises) has inaugurated its first European Design and Innovation Centre, located in Sophia Antipolis in the south of France.

"This new Centre reasserts the central role that BRP assigns to design and innovation as a growth driver. This installation in Sophia Antipolis demonstrates BRP's desire to immerse itself even more in European trends and to continue to offer products that meet the current and future needs of its customers and the communities in which it operates".

The Centre, which will carry out advanced concept studies on sustainable urban mobility, will play a leading role in BRP's global electrification strategy. Acting on its CSR25 programme, the company committed to a technological transition. It aims to offer electric models in each of its existing product lines and to have 50% of its units sold to be electric by 2035.

"Design and innovation are at the heart of our strategy and of our values. We will never stop pushing boundaries in order to offer consumers products that make their daily travels easier and allow them to explore new playgrounds," said José Boisjoli, President and Chief Executive Officer of BRP. 

Nestled between sea and mountains in the heart of a region recognised as a hub for green technology research, "the Centre will enable BRP to continue attracting the best design talent in the world to its creative teams". BRP's design and innovation team is composed of more than 130 experts from 19 different countries.

"We can transform industry paradigms thanks to the creativity generated by sharing ideas and the plurality of perspectives within our team. The arrival of new colleagues, who will be rooted in the European ecosystem, will only stimulate our exchanges so that we put all the power of design at the service of our consumers and communities on both sides of the Atlantic," said Denys Lapointe, Chief Design Officer at BRP.

Nicolas Deluy, with his bicontinental expertise, has been leading the Centre's team since December 2022, which is made up of about 15 experts, including industrial designers, colours, materials and finish specialists, as well as a clay modeller, from various countries. In addition to its work on advanced concepts related to sustainable mobility, the team will provide design services to internal BRP partners in Europe and Scandinavia.

Piaggio

Piaggio - Q1 PTW unit sales +4.8%

Group Chairman and CEO Roberto Colaninno: "The Piaggio Group has closed another record-breaking quarter with the best results to date, the sixth consecutive quarter to report growth. Net sales rose by +20%, to more than € 500m, EBITDA was € 81m, with an EBITDA margin of 14.8%, and net profit almost doubled from the year-earlier period, to reach € 24.1m. 

"These results make us very satisfied with the effort we have put into our work and mean we can look ahead with confidence and optimism as we continue along the important growth path we have already mapped out, confirming the investments we have planned and our commitment to ESG issues. The key objective for 2023 is to conserve margins and make improvements wherever possible."

Two-wheelers:

In Q1 to 31 March 2023, the Group sold 124,700 two-wheelers worldwide, an increase of +4.8% from 119,000 in the year-earlier period, generating net sales of € 438m, an increase of +17.1%. This includes € 38.7m (+31.4%) of spares and accessories.

Turnover on Q1 PTW sales was "particularly strong in the EMEA and Americas areas (+21.9%), with a very healthy performance on the Italian market (+40.3%) and the American market (+58.2%), followed by Asia Pacific (+12.4%).

In Europe, the Piaggio Group reported a 21.7% share of the scooter segment (21% for Q1, 2022) and "further strengthened its positioning on the North American scooter market, with a share of 26.4%. The scooter sector reported a +16.8% rise in worldwide turnover, led by the Vespa brand (+18%), the MP3 three-wheeler and by the Piaggio Beverly, Medley and Liberty high-wheel scooters."

The motorcycle sector closed the first quarter of 2023 with a +12.7% turnover improvement and record results. 

This included a best ever first quarter for Moto Guzzi, with sales volumes up by more than +30% and turnover improving by +55% - "with an important contribution from the new Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello." 

The Aprilia brand "enjoyed an excellent first three months, thanks to sales of the RSV4 super sports model, the Aprilia RS 660, the Tuono 660 and 1100, and the Tuareg 600, which also achieved important results in rally competitions."

Commercial vehicles - Q1 sales volumes of 30,200 vehicles was up by +32.4% (22,800 Q1, 2022) with net sales of € 108.8m (+32.9%). Turnover from commercial vehicles were +54% in India (units +36.1%); EMEA & Americas reported an improvement in turnover, and a +7.7% increase in unit sales volumes.

Piaggio Fast Forward - The Boston based robotics and future mobility company, expanded its product portfolio with the addition of gitamini, a new robot that condenses the technology and functions of gita, its "revolutionary big brother", in a lighter, more compact design - both are made in the PFF factory in Boston's Charlestown district. The first marketing phase for the robots focuses on the US market, where the circulation of robots on city streets is already regulated.

Corporate - Consolidated net sales up +20% to € 546.8m, the highest ever first-quarter result (455.8 € /mln for Q1, 2022). Industrial gross margin was € 2m, up +27% (116.8 € /mln at 31.03.2022), a 27.1% return on net sales.

EBITDA was € 81m, the highest ever first-quarter result, with an improvement of +34.9%; EBITDA margin was 14.8%; EBIT € 44.9m, +62.2%; EBIT margin 8.2%; Profit before tax € 36.5m, +78.7%.

Net profit of € 24.1m was the best-ever first-quarter result, almost double net profit of 7 € /m for Q1, 2022. A total of 154,900 vehicles were shipped worldwide, up by +9.2%; capital expenditure was approx. € 32.4m (+21.7%).

Mitas

Mitas parent company Trelleborg sold to Yokohama

The ongoing trend of consolidation in the international tyre industry has continued with news that Trelleborg Wheel Systems, the owner of Mitas Tires (among other brands), has been sold to The Yokohama Rubber Cp., Ltd in Japan, which is renamed 'Yokohama TWS' as a result.

The news of the intended acquisition was first announced last year, but the regulatory approval process (in Europe and Japan) has meant that it was only in May that the deal was finally announced as "successfully completed" - for € 2,074m. Following last year's announcement, "Trelleborg Wheel Systems was pleased to announce the acquisition by The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.".

Paolo Pompei, former President of Trelleborg Wheel Systems and current President and CEO of Yokohama TWS.

Headquartered at Hiratsuka, Japan, Yokohama "is a global leader in the tyre industry and other rubber applications, such as conveyor belts, hoses and couplings and fenders. With 860.5bn yen in revenues (approx. 

€ 6bn), The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd. is a truly international concern, employing over 28,000 people around the globe and operating in more than 120 countries".

A Yokohama statement continued to state that the acquisition enables Yokohama "to consolidate its leading position among tyre producers in the world, becoming a global leader in the off-highway tyres segment with the addition of Trelleborg, Mitas, Maximo, Cultor brands and the Interfit service network to its portfolio".

Paolo Pompei, former President of Trelleborg Wheel Systems and current President and CEO of Yokohama TWS, is quoted as saying that TWS had closed a successful chapter in its history with the Trelleborg Group and is "opening a new page with a leading player in the tyre industry, sharing our values and vision for the future.

"Over the last few years, we have delivered continuous business growth, combining strategic acquisitions with dedicated investments, and this has allowed us to build a strong and sustainable platform supported by a global manufacturing footprint, innovative products and solutions and an extensive sales network in close proximity to our customers.

"I'm extremely proud of what the TWS team has been able to achieve so far, and we are all honoured that Yokohama has decided to invest in us, building, together with their existing business, a new leading player in the off-highway segment."

Vertex

Vertex sprockets

Best known for its multi-title winning two and four-stroke pistons, the Vertex brand is also a 'player' in the sprockets space with factory motocross and enduro team co-developed fitments, updated for the most popular 2023 bikes.

"Rigorously produced in Europe and precision CNC-machined for reliability and durability", Vertex offers a choice of materials. 

Its aluminium sprockets are made from strong, high ductile, T6 heat-treated 7075 alloy (zinc and aluminium) and designed with mud drain channels on the external side. 

Additionally, and available in a selection of colours, Vertex C45 (carbon) steel sprockets are available in steel or as Duo versions with a special 16CrNi4 outer ring with induction-hardened steel and T6 heat-treated 7075 alloy carrier.

The Vertex range also includes two CNC-machined rear sprockets in special 16CrNi4 steel - the basic K version - and the lightening hole equipped KC.

VERTEX PISTONS/VP ITALY S.R.L.

www.vertexpistons.com

Matris

Matris adjustable YZF R7 suspension options

Italian suspension specialist Matris has a complete range of suspension upgrade options available for Yamaha's popular new 700 twin Supersport YZF R7.

For the front Matris is offering a choice of three fully adjustable (compression, rebound, preload) hydraulic cartridge options from its high-end engineered ranges - asymmetric quad-valve, classic or sealed cartridge sets.

All are genuine "plug and play" and totally reversible - they replace all the original internals and are ready to install without any original fork modifications.

For the rear, the choice is between its M46KF and M46KD rear shock series. Both are multi-adjustable and equipped with a hydraulic spring preload unit that gives riders an easy and quick setting change as riding conditions, load and preferences require.

MATRIS S.R.L.

www.matrisdampers.com

Airoh

'Connor'

Added to the Airoh Street helmet line for 2023, ' Connor' with ECE 2206 is a three-shell size wind tunnel modelled full-face with superior aerodynamics and advanced, race-oriented ventilation system "for exceptional air flow and comfort". The shell is in HRT (High Resistant Thermoplastic) and is available in a wide range of sizes from XS to XXL.

Features include an extra-wide vision visor with ATVR (Airoh Tool-Less Visor Removal), antifog setting, locking system with scratch and UV resistant coatings.

The inner linings are completed by the ASN (Airoh Sliding Net) system, and they are made with technical textiles and treatments including 2DRY, MICROSENSE and sanitised, they are removable and washable, hypoallergenic and 'Connor' ships with Airoh 'Stop Wind' in the box.

LOCATELLI S.P.A.

www.airoh.com

Bonamici Racing

Bonamici for Aprilia Tuareg 660

Italian parts manufacturer Bonamici Racing has added a new selection of FIM accessories (some of them model-specific) for the Aprilia Tuareg 660.

Designed specifically for the Tuareg are a left- and right-hand footpeg insert and brake side toepegs, a brake lever and a brake and clutch lever kit.

Also available are engine and dashboard protectors, clutch lever, chain adjuster, oil cap, swingarm spools - standard and 'Racing' style.

Bonamici always supplies all the necessary hardware (screws and bolts) and fitting instructions with all its parts and says that spare parts are always available.

Luca Migliorati, Bonamici's Sales and Marketing Manager, told International Dealer News: "Each component is designed and developed for professional and competitive use and is therefore of excellent quality. The products we sell to our distributors and dealers are the same as those used in WSBK, MotoGP, EWC, BSB, Moto America and for TT racing on the Isle of Man."

Bonamici race sponsorships and technical partnerships include the likes of Leopard Racing Moto3 team, Snipers Team, HRC, ROKiT BMW WSBK and BMW's World Endurance teams, Althea Racing and GRT Yamaha and MotoXracing/S97 Racing Yamaha WSBK teams.

"Every single detail of our products is the result of a thorough engineering design process, we develop racing components that weigh not one gramme more than necessary," says Luca. "The accuracy of the material used by professional teams is made available for the daily use of anyone looking for perfection on their own bike.

"We use the best technologies to produce our racing accessories with the maximum care possible. By making constant quality-oriented investments and by using precision CNC machines and the best titanium, aluminium and steel alloys, we make high technology accessories that allow teams and riders to obtain the best performance during the race competitions. We produce our accessories in-house here at our headquarters in Italy." 

BONAMICI RACING 

www.bonamiciracing.it

QD

QD - Panigale Streetfighter V4 slip-on

Italian exhaust manufacturer QD (Milan) has introduced a new system for the Ducati Panigale Streetfighter V4 - using the stock manifolds and double 52 mm diameter connection pipes where the two catalytic converters are used.

A 2-in-1 connection pipe merges the flows into a common 60 mm diameter pipe where a valve, controlled by the stock servomotor, lowers the noise level to meet the homologation limits.

The system ends with a double link pipe and two titanium silencers from QD's 'Gunshot Dark Matter' series, in matt black ceramic coated finish, with GP style mesh grids in the carbon fibre end caps hiding the 2 dB killers.

All the pipework is in TIG welded stainless steel with gas injection "to obtain a perfect inner surface, void all the gas turbulence and maximise the flow.

"The system fits perfectly with the passenger footrests thanks to two small additional brackets supplied in the package that allow their relocation in a wider position". A carbon fibre heatshield is in development and will be released soon.

"The power achieved with this system is impressive, +12 hp at the rear wheel in racing configuration with the race map - the tool to reflash the stock ECU is sold separately as an option".

As with all QD Exhaust products, this system is sold with a SERVICE CARD that allows the owner to extend to a 30-month warranty programme and to download the European certification.

QD EXHAUST

www.qdexhaust.it

ACEM

ACEM and IMMA "Guidelines on anti-tampering rules for motorcycle exhaust silencers"

This is an 'Alphabet Soup' of news relating to proposed upcoming exhaust anti-tampering regulations and their enforcement.

It is based on a press release issued by ACEM on May 31st. It is important to the European aftermarket exhausts industry and the distributors and dealers who sell motorcycle exhausts. Language versions of this (and plenty of opinions and commentary, no doubt) will likely be appearing in the motorcycle media throughout Europe…

"The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) shares the concerns of citizens, politicians and regulators regarding the impact of noise in daily life. 

 

Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General - "This initiative bringing together the expertise of recognised players in the motorcycle sector addresses one of the main causes of motorcycle noise in the streets."

"The aim of these guidelines is to avoid diverging, non-effective interpretations of anti-tampering rules for exhaust silencers, in particular for non-original equipment that may be alternatively fitted on motorcycles over their lifetime. The document notably clarifies technical requirements to ensure robustness of fixing solutions for silencing baffles and dB killers, to prevent their easy removal".

These guidelines have been developed in cooperation with key aftermarket exhaust industry players - including Akrapovic, Arrow, Giannelli, Lafranconi, LeoVince, MIVV and SC Project.

"Following an informal endorsement by authorities at EU level, the guidelines were supported by government experts at UNECE, the world forum on vehicle regulations.

"Dissemination activities are now being launched by the motorcycle sector, with the involvement of ACEM member vehicle manufacturers, industry national associations and aftermarket exhaust manufacturers, seeking to raise the awareness of all stakeholders - including type approval authorities, market surveillance authorities and users".

Commenting on the plan, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: "Approved silencers with too easily removable baffles or dB killers are today still present on the market, which may result in unacceptably high levels of noise on the road.

"Putting forward state-of-the-art solutions, the guidelines will help type approval authorities towards a more harmonised assessment of conformity to anti-tampering rules for exhaust silencers. The call is now on all stakeholders to apply them without delay."

www.acem.eu

www.immamotorcycles.org

BMW Motorrad Days

BMW 21st Motorrad Days and Pure&Crafted

Berlin, July 7 - 9, 2023

The 21st edition of the BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin from 7 to 9 July 2023 will celebrate "100 years of BMW Motorrad". 

"The fans of music, motorcycle culture, skateboarding, BMX and art will also get their money's worth - at the Pure&Crafted Festival. At the festival, which was launched in Berlin in 2015 and initiated by BMW Motorrad, fans can once again experience the special mix of handcrafted music, motorcycle culture and new-heritage lifestyle on 7 and 8 July 2023."

While the last two Pure&Crafted festivals took place in the Sommergarten at the Messe Berlin trade fair site, the cult event has now found "a perfectly tailored home in urban Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg with the Napoleon Komplex. Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique Pure&Crafted world on a warehouse site with typical retro industrial charm."

Among others, Hookie Co. from Dresden will be there to design this year's Pure&Crafted custom bike. For the first time, electric mobility will also play a central role this year, as Pure&Crafted consistently builds bridges from heritage to mobility concepts of the future.

The same weekend sees BMW celebrate the 21st BMW Motorrad Days - the event that BMW continues to reimagine in Berlin, co-located with Pure&Crafted, after 18 years at Garmisch-Partenkirchen in southern Germany.

www.bmw-motorrad.com

Biz Briefs

BMW Motorrad posted a new all-time high in Q1 of its centenary year, delivering a total of 47,935 motorcycles and scooters - more vehicles in a first quarter than ever before (2022: 47,403 units; +1.1%). Revenues climbed to € 933m (2022: € 799m/+16.8%). Segment EBIT was up 42.6% to € 154m (2022: €108m) and the EBIT margin increased to 16.5% (2022: 13.5%/+3%-points). In other news, the board of BMW AG has approved a further share buy-back programme in a volume of up to € 2bn, which is scheduled to start upon conclusion of the first buy-back programme. The latter was started in July 2022 and is expected to be completed in mid-2023. An authorisation to repurchase up to 10% of the share capital within five years was granted by the Annual General Meeting of BMW AG in May 2022.

Following a record year in 2022, Ducati started 2023 with a new record for Q1 deliveries of 14,725 total units delivered. Of its major markets, Italy was +7.0% (2,717 units), USA (1,677) and Germany + 21.0 % (1,666). Multistrada V4 popularity keeps growing (2,668 units sold in Q1); the company sold 2,005 'Monsters', with DesertX becoming the third most popular model in the range (1,442 units sold). Ducati says it is now selling in 90 countries with more than 800 dealers worldwide, with 55 more slated to open in 2023, including the first Audi Ducati Retail integration dealership for Switzerland that opened in Volketswil (Zurich) in March.

Ducati and its employees have come out in support of its home region, Emilia-Romagna, the region hardest hit by the recent floods in Italy. The company will make a donation of € 200,000 to the Protezione Civile of Emilia-Romagna to support the people and communities affected. The Trade Union representatives at Ducati, together with employees, are also taking action for a fundraising, whose proceeds will be doubled by the company.

Honda's Q4 and full year 22/23 financial results (the 12 months to March 31, 2023) put motorcycle segment revenue at +33.00% (approx. € 20bn). Worldwide PTW unit shipments of Honda badged machines from its wholly owned and JV/subsidiary factory network were up over +10% at over 18m. Sales in Asian markets were up by 10.4% (16.1m units), Indonesia was +15.7% (approx. 4.5m units); India was +16% (some 2.4m units). European sales were +9.5% (347,000 units) and North America was +5% (459,000 units). Sales in Japan were essentially flat year-on-year at some 246,000 units. Operating profit from Honda's motorcycle business segment was up by +56.9% at around € 3.35bn, with operating margin of some 16.8% (14.3% in 21/22). For 23/24 Honda is forecasting growth of around 25% for European unit sales to over 430,000.

South Korean steel maker Posco Holdings and Honda have announced that they are "exploring a comprehensive partnership toward the realisation of carbon neutrality". They will collaborate on areas such as batteries (procurement of key battery materials such as cathodes/anodes); recycling (expanded use of recycled materials to establish a closed-loop recycling system); automotive steel sheet (ultra-high tensile steel sheet for lighter vehicles and lower manufacturing emissions) and electric steel sheet (for the mass production of drive motors for the e-Axle, electric axle drive).

Kawasaki's Q4 and full year 22/23 financial results (the 12 months to March 31, 2023) put motorcycle segment revenue at +32% (approx. € 4bn) with worldwide unit shipments +13% (555,000 unts) within which 'developed market' shipments were +13.9% (237,000 units). The United States saw a 38.4% increase in unit shipments at around 119,000 units, but Europe was down by -5.5% at 67,000 units. Sales in Japan and Australia were also down. Units in 'emerging markets' were up by 12.4% (318,000). The Philippines were up (+29.8%/209,000 units), Indonesia was down (-4.4%/43,000 units); China was down (-18.9%/30,000). Powersports segment operating profit was +90.7% (€ 490m). ATV/UTV and PWC unit shipments were +7.4% (87,000 units). For its 23/24 year Kawasaki forecasts 7% less inventory for its 'developed markets'. 

For its Q4 and full year 22/23 financial results (the 12 months to March 31, 2023), Suzuki is reporting global sales of 1.859m units, which is +13.4% (+220,000 YoY). Sales in Europe were 31,000 units (+9.1%/+3,000 units YoY); North America was +11.5% (+3,000 units YoY at 32,000); Japan down by -14.6% (-8,000 units YoY at 46,000), with Asia +15.4% (+204,000 units YoY at 1.528m). India is its largest Asian market by far, at 740,000 units (+21.4%), followed by China at 430,000 units (+6.8%) and Philippines at 197,000 units (22.5%). Latin America was worth 198,000 units for Suzuki in 22/23 (+17.5%). Total Suzuki production (domestic and all international facilities, including JVs and 3PP) was 1.914m units (+7.3%/130,000 units). Total sales revenue from consolidated net sales (all factories) was 333.3bn yen, which was +31.4% YoY, with Europe +33.1% at 39.2bn yen.

For Q1 of its 2023 financial year (January to December) - Yamaha is the only one of the Japanese manufacturers to run an annual calendar financial year - Yamaha states that "demand for motorcycles is strong" with unit sales in all major markets increasing - despite continuing shortage of inventory in the Premium Scooters segment - one where Yamaha is particularly strong. Total global unit sales for Q1 were +112% at 1.274m units for 347.9bn yen. Sales in Europe were +107% for Q1 YoY at 55,000 units and 52.7bn yen (+130%). Sales in North America were +191% (26,000) units; Japan was +90% (21,000 units); Asia was +114% (1.028bn units). Total 'developed market' unit sales (Europe, USA and Japan) were +113% for Q1, with overall inventory as at March 31st described as being lower than optimum levels to meet demand.

In Japan, Yamaha Motor and its wholly owned subsidiary Yamaha Motor Powered Products Co., Ltd. (YMPC) has announced plans for a "partial transfer" of its power products business (multi-purpose engines, generators and snow blowers) to Earth Power Products Co., Ltd. (EPP) - wholly owned subsidiary of Japanese auto parts maker Meiko Seiki Co., Ltd. 

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