PIERER Mobility

PIERER Mobility Executive Board "expects a decline in motorcycle and bicycle sales of 10-15%" in 2024

In updating its guidance for 2024, the PIERER Mobility Management board has stated that it "continues to anticipate a difficult global economic environment, driven not least by persistently high inflation rates and wage and salary developments with far-reaching influences on price developments worldwide.
"The PIERER Mobility Group will use 2024 as a consolidation year to strengthen its core business. The cost-reduction measures already initiated in the 2023 financial year will be intensively pursued and supported by further relocations of production and development capacities to the joint venture partners in India and China. The total cost savings in the 2024 financial year will amount to a high double-digit million amount".

In mid-June 2024, the Group announced that it was adjusting its guidance in response to tougher global conditions. It stated that sales were falling "short of expectations" due to the persistently high interest rates in the USA "and volatile market environment in Europe".
The company is therefore implementing a comprehensive package of measures, involving tighter cost management and reduction of production volumes in Austria, expansion of the supply chain in India and China and realignment of the bicycle division.
"In the current financial year, momentum in PIERER Mobility's core motorbike markets in the USA and Europe has slowed significantly. Due to the latest interest rate decisions in the USA, interest rates are expected to remain high, which will have a negative impact on sales expectations for the American market.
"Sales figures in Europe are also still volatile. Overall, PIERER Mobility's sales figures will fall short of expectations this year after three years of above-average success. This means that dealers will have to reduce their inventories and thus continue to tie up considerable capital. The PIERER Mobility Group is, therefore, continuing its efforts to strengthen its dealer structure through extended payment terms and higher discounts. These measures have already led to a sharp increase in working capital in the past financial year. Management expects working capital and the associated capital commitment to remain high in 2024. This is expected to have a significant negative impact on EBIT and the financial result in the current financial year".
The tighter cost management and reduction of production volumes in Austria are said to be due to   the production costs of motorbikes in Europe having "risen due to high wage settlements and increasing costs in connection with regulations and bureaucracy, putting a strain on competitiveness. Production volumes are therefore being significantly reduced at the production site in Mattighofen, Austria". At the same time, the company is tightening cost management throughout the Group.

Stefan Pierer, Chairman of the PIERER Mobility Executive Board

"With the growth in sales figures over the last ten years, the number of employees at the motorbike subsidiary KTM AG has more than doubled. In view of the changed location and market situation, the number of employees has now had to be adjusted. This reduction in personnel after years of rising employment is painful, but necessary in order to maintain and secure the competitiveness of the production site".
The Group says that another priority in 2024 is to increase efficiency in product development. "The focus will be on aligning and prioritising activities in line with the Group's premium brand strategy and streamlining development processes. Following on from this, joint research and development with the strategic partner Bajaj Auto in India and the JV partner CFMOTO in China will be expanded at the respective locations".
Due to the increasingly fragile supplier industry in Europe, the PIERER Mobility Group is "utilising the favourable economic conditions in these regions to secure its competitiveness. An efficient and high-quality supplier industry is being established there.
For the 2024 financial year, the PIERER Mobility Executive Board says it expects a decline in sales of 10% to 15% for both the motorcycle and bicycle divisions due to the current market developments.
In the Motorcycles segment, the Executive Board assumes that the cost savings introduced in the current financial year will be able to compensate for the negative effects of declining sales to such an extent that a balanced to slightly positive EBIT can be generated. "The development of existing dealers and the further expansion of the dealer network to support the brand strategy will be key issues in 2024".
Earlier this year (March 27, 2024), KTM parent company PIERER Mobility confirmed 2023 total sales revenue of € 2.661m (+9.2%), with EBIT at
€ 160m and EBITDA of € 323.5m "despite difficult economic conditions and a radical change in the bicycle industry ". This was on sales of 381,555 motorcycles (+1.6%) and 57,358 bicycles (+33 %).
At the time, the company also announced that it had accepted that negative free cash flow of € -413.0m (compared to € -2.8m in 2022) was a price worth paying in order to maintain a capital and R&D investment programme into further growth that equated to 9.2% of sales with approx. € 195.1m invested in product development and tooling and € 88.9m in operating facilities and infrastructure.
Thanks to the company's strong equity base and long-term financing, it has sufficient long-term liquidity reserves available to allow it to make decisions like that - of the 6,184 employees it had at the end of last year (around 5,000 of them in Austria), the R&D workforce was some 1,300 employees - around 21% of the total workforce, with approx.
€ 3.9m invested in the training and development programme for employees, including around 220 apprentices.
Impressive stuff, which goes a long way to explaining the financial resilience that has allowed it to make so many business development moves in recent years and introduce so many new models - 72 new and revised models from the three core brands, with 280,206 KTM motorcycles sold, 67,462 Husqvarna motorcycles sold and 29,532 GasGas motorcycles sold in the 2023 financial ye­ar - that is in addition to the motorcycles sold by MV Agusta (1,852) and CFMOTO (2,503) - with around two-thirds of PTW sales sold in markets outside Europe.

News Briefs

 

GIVI's Maxia 5 (its top of the range top case) has won the Red Dot award for best product design. Structurally redesigned, optimising its weight to around 5.4 kg and increasing its strength, the Maxia 5 has a 50-litre capacity and can hold two modular helmets; www.givimoto.com

The MIC in USA announced that Q1 total motorcycle unit sales were -5.6% over the same period of 2023 at 118,702 units; ATV/UTV sales were -4.8% at 36,649 units for a total U.S. powersports industry unit count of 155,351 units sold in Q1 this year (-5.4%). Scooter sales were 3,312 units (-5.6%); On-Highway motorcycles were 66,290 units (up by 2.1%). After strong growth these past few years, ADV models ('Dual Sports' as they are termed in USA) were down by -6.0% at 17,586 units in Q1 2024, and following the huge explosion in demand during the Covid and immediate post-Covid years, Off-Highway motorcycles were seriously down in the first quarter of 2024 at -18.3% (31,514 units).

Women’s Circuit Racing is finally to get its own championship with an inaugural six-race 2024 FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR) that kicked off in June at the Emilia-Romagna MWC “Marco Simoncelli” (14-16 June) before a Prosecco DOC UK Round at Donington Park (12-14 July). "As a single-make series, all participants will compete using the 687cc Yamaha YZF-R7, focusing on skill and strategy rather than differences in equipment. This inaugural 2024 season will feature 24 riders from a variety of backgrounds, all poised to leave their mark on this historic championship". The series will continue with races in Portugal (Algarve) and Hungary (Balaton Park) in August, Italy in September (Cremona) before a Prometeon Spanish Round as a finale at the Circuito de Jerez - Angel Nieto, October 18-20; www.worldsbk.com

Suzuki has invested in Glydways, Inc., a California based startup that develops on-demand Personal Rapid Transit of autonomous batteries that is to "revolutionise urban mobility core-efficient and convenient with lower infrastructure and operating costs". Suzuki and Glydways will discuss partnering on vehicle development and manufacturing.

In USA, the 2024 SEMA Market Report finds that automotive specialty-equipment market sales grew to $52.3bn in 2023, an increase of about 1% over 2022.

The SBK Commission is working on the introduction of a new entry class to the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship in 2026, "marking a significant evolution in the racing landscape". The new class will replace the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship (WorldSSP300), which has served as a feeder class since its inception in 2017.

Brembo has won a 2024 Red Dot award for its MotoGP technology-derived GP4-MotoGP brake caliper.

Michele Colaninno, Chief Executive Officer of the Piaggio Group (PIA.MI), has been elected to a second term as President of ACEM - the Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association. He stated: "The market and urban environments are changing fast and mobility is evolving. This is a challenge for the industry, but also an opportunity not to be lost: sustainability, connectivity, safety and competitiveness are the key points of our agenda and the ACEM manifesto.”

Yamaha Motor Europe is engaged in a 'proof of concept' collaboration in Berlin with smart battery swapping and charging infrastructure provider Swobbee to test swappable batteries with NEO's in Berlin. The project started in July and will be staged in central Berlin, which is described as "the epicentre of electric mobility in Europe". Customers with a 50 cc equivalent AM license can subscribe to Swobbee’s service to receive Yamaha electric-powered scooter NEO's on a monthly basis.

Michael Dunlop beat a 24-year record to become the new 'King of the Isle of Man' - fittingly, as the record of 26 wins was held by his uncle Joey Dunlop. Michael took home his 27th TT victory when he won the Supertwins class, making him unquestionably the new king of the mountain course.

Supersprox

Supersprox chains - additional teams testing mid-range displacement products



Supersprox is introducing new chains into its product range. DJ Maughfling, Supersprox C.E.O., says: "We have been producing, racing and selling sprockets for 65 years and we think that our knowledge on sprockets is sound. Now we have decided to introduce a second product. From this year, we are also racing Supersprox chains."
Supersprox is already advertising its 'Performance' line chain to complement its sprockets for 50-400 cc street models, but DJ believes there is a need for something in the mid-displacement space.

"There will be a need to develop more products for the emerging mid-range classes of motorcycle displacements. We already have many top-quality products for the high-performance bikes. And at the other end, there are many low price and unknown brand products on the market for small cc, low-power and low-cost bikes. Many of them of unknown or of uncertain provenance, low-grade materials and manufacturing quality.
"We believe the expanding mid-displacement segment is not as well supported as it needs to be. These are the 400 cc-900 cc bikes, with less than 80 bhp, many coming from China and ­India.

"Supersprox is already able to offer a range of sprockets for these motorcycles, but what about the chains? Riders on € 2,500 - € 8,000 motorcycles are not very likely to fit high-quality Japanese racing chains. And as they are not likely to fit Supersprox Stealth dual material sprockets, this sector is looking for something in between, and that presents a problem.
"Apart from the brands that the industry knows and trusts, there are several younger chain producers. Most of these are not able to accurately position their chains in the market. It's very easy for the consumer to buy a chain that is not suitable for their motorcycle and to have a negative experience as a result.

"Supersprox will approach this, as we do with the sprockets, by going racing with our chains - as we do with our sprockets. In 2024, and continuing into 2025, we have partnered with professionals in IDM, SBK-SS300 and Rally. These three teams are using Supersprox chains and providing valuable feedback - feedback that will allow us to understand and improve the product quality and reliability we are achieving and that these teams need. In the World Supersport class, we are working with the WRP Triumph team on the Street Triple RS 765 cc. In the World Supersport 300 class, we are supporting the Fusport-RT Motorsport Kawasaki team on the Ninja 400. And in the Rally category, we are supporting the French Yamaha Ténéré 700 cc team in the Moroccan desert challenge series.
"It is our firm belief that these and other racing activities will help us to develop, improve and understand the chain market, allowing us to offer the segment a valuable alternative with accurate application information, a known brand pedigree and race-proven reliability."
www.supersprox.com

Great Wall Motors

Eight-cylinder Gold Wing killer By Ben Purvis


The Beijing Internation Motorcycle Exhibition was the platform for one of the most remarkable launches in years as a complete newcomer to the bike market unveiled two machines aimed squarely at Honda’s range-topping Gold Wing.
Statements of intent don’t come much bolder, and this wasn’t some unsubstantiated plan from an underfunded startup, but a pair of production-ready bikes from a global automotive giant that’s already bigger than companies like Renault, Nissan, Suzuki or Mazda.
The company in question is Great Wall Motors, the world’s 19th-biggest car maker by market cap, valued at $28bn. Great Wall already owns at least five car and truck brands offered on international markets - Ora, Haval, Wey, Tank and Great Wall might not be hugely familiar in the West yet, but they’re making headway against established rivals - and it’s created a whole new company to act as its motorcycle arm. Great Wall Souo is the bike company’s name (it translates to Soul) and the first models are the S2000GL and S2000ST.

How do you out-do the Gold Wing, a bike that’s already synonymous with motorcycling excess? By turning everything up a couple of notches. The S2000GL and ST are rivals to the Gold Wing Tour and the base Gold Wing respectively, the GL featuring a top case and armchair-like pillion seat, while the ST has side case only.
Both mimic the Gold Wing’s engine layout, with opposed-cylinder motors mounted above a shaft-drive transmission, but instead of 1,833 cc and six cylinders like the current Gold Wing, they each have 2,000 cc and eight cylinders. Yes, these bikes use the world’s first motorcycle-specific flat eight engine and promise to be the first mass-produced eight-cylinder motorcycles ever to reach showrooms in large numbers.
There’s no official power or torque claim yet, but type-approval documents certify the bikes at 113 kW (151.5 hp) - beating the 125 hp Honda Gold Wing by a clear margin. Honda’s flagship has a seven-speed, dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission, so the Souo S2000 has an eight-speed dual-clutch semi-auto. The Gold Wing uses single overhead camshafts, so the S2000 has double overhead cams. It’s bigger than a 'Wing', too, with a wheelbase of 1,810 mm that’s 115 mm longer than the Honda’s 1,695 mm. The overall length of 2,660 mm is 185 mm longer than the 2,475 mm Gold Wing. Bikes don’t come much bigger than this, and like the Gold Wing, there’s a reverse gear as well as forward ratios to help manoeuvres. You’ll need it - the lighter ‘ST’ version of the Souo S2000 weighs 450 kg, while the full-dress ‘GL’ variant is 461 kg. The equivalent Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour come in at 367 kg and 390 kg respectively, so the Chinese eight-cylinder is up to 83 kg heavier than its Japanese counterpart.
Like the Gold Wing and BMW’s K1600, the S2000 models use a Hossack-style front suspension system with cast aluminium girder forks supported by a double wishbone and monoshock arrangement below the steering head. It’s a setup that makes sense for large, heavy tourers, separating braking and suspension forces to allow soft springing without excessive brake dive.
The Souo project won’t end with the S2000. The company is already planning to launch another model - a cruiser-style bike based on the same engine, with styling similar to the Honda Rune and F6C Valkyrie. Great Wall Motor’s owner and Chairman Wei Jianjun is China’s 13th-richest individual with a fortune worth $13.1bn and a lifelong motorcycle fan. Given the success he’s steered Great Wall Motors to since taking over in his 20s in 1990, Souo stands a strong chance of becoming a serious player in China and internationally.

BMW

BMW R20 Concept - 'Rad' Roadster?


Primarily a May auto-fest and held in the elegant surroundings of the Villa d'Este on the shores of Lake Como (northern Italy), the annual Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este nonetheless does showcase some exceptional motorcycles from concourse condition classics and authentic restorations to contemporary and often avant-garde customs through to advanced concepts and prototypes.
A highlight of the spring season for 'petrol heads' and poseurs alike, BMW is a lead sponsor and a major player in exhibit terms, and generally has something to show for its winter workshop endeavors.
This year saw a debut for an R20 concept as a follow-on from the R18. Described by BMW as a Roadster, it is a 'runner' and with a "punched out" 2,000 cc 'Boxer' engine, it would be the second largest displacement motorcycle in the world if it does make it to volume production - second only to Triumph's 2,458 cc Rocket 3 Triple.

BMW Motorrad's two-liter big Boxer R20 'Roadster' concept.

Having turned 100 last year, BMW Motorrad continues to mine its heritage - the R20 designation hails from 1937/1938 when the first R20 was developed from then best-selling 8 bhp R2. The 192 cc R20 of that era only saw 5,000 examples being sold - the overhead-valve engine was housed in a frame made from bolted-up steel tubes and equipped with an undamped telescopic front fork.
This 21st century iteration looks as stylish and 'rad' as the original must have done back in its day. The minimalistic avant-garde StreetFighter vibes of this R20 aren't 'Roadster' in the purest sense and the high ground clearance makes look 'flickable' - like it could carve canyons - not something normally associated with the weight and geometry of BMW's air-oil cooled flat twin.

 

From concept to more of a pre-production prototype - this was the 'runner' that BMW Motorrad unveiled at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in May.

The chassis has been completely redeveloped from the one developed for the R18, with a black double-loop main frame made of chrome-moly steel tubes forming the backbone, and BMW tradition meets modernity with a two-arm version of the proven paralever swingarm.
The exposed driveshaft, conceptually adopted from the R18, has been shortened for integration into the roadster architecture and if features fully adjustable Öhlins Blackline suspension components at the front and rear. The basic vehicle geometry has a 62.5-degree steering head angle and a 1,550 mm wheelbase, with radially mounted brake calipers from ISR - six piston front, four piston rear and 2-in-2 exhaust.

The first iteration of the BMW R20 designation - a 192 cc/8 bhp single in 1937.

"The BMW R20 concept takes the Big Boxer culture to a new level," says BMW Motorrad's newly installed head of design Alexander Buckan. “The R20 concept is a bold interpretation of the BMW Motorrad DNA. It combines modern technical elements with a classic roadster design. Its oversized proportions and minimalistic aesthetic give it an unmistakable character.”
New concepts shown by BMW Motorrad at the Concorso d'Eleganza do have a habit of eventually making it into production, one way or another, at one stage or another. So, based on its established 'modus operandi', watch out for a slew of pre-production custom protypes as a telling next stage. That said, with R18 sales not having met expectations since its launch in 2020, it's equally possible that 'Munich' may be gun-shy this time.

German motorcycle registrations

Germany: new motorcycle registrations +4.92%

The latest data from the German motorcycle industry association (IVM) show motorcycle registrations for the period to May 2024 up by +4.92% at 68,231. In motorcycle unit terms, that has been the best first five months of the year in Germany since before the financial crisis of 2007-2008 and subsequent Great Recession.
In total PTW terms, the German market was +1.93% at 105,273 units to the end of May 2024 - also the best since before 2008.

The top selling model YTD is the new BMW R 1300 GS with 4,249 units sold for a 6.23% market share. This was followed by the Kawasaki Z900 (1,875/2.75%), Honda CB 750 Hornet (1,443/2.11%), Yamaha MT-07 (1,339/1.96%), Honda CBR 650 R (1,310/1.92%), then the BMW R 1250 GS, Kawasaki Z650, Honda CRF 1100 Africa Twin, BMW F 900 R, with the KTM 690 SMC in 10th spot.
With six models in the Top 25, it is no surprise that BMW is market share leader in its home market, with 14,931 units sold for a 21.88% market share. It was followed by Honda with a 15.76% market share (10,752 units), Kawasaki (10.92%/7,454 units), KTM (9.54%/6,449) and Yamaha (7.58%/5,174).
The Top 10 market shares were rounded out by Triumph (5.31%), Harley-Davidson (4.93%), Ducati (4.70%), Suzuki (3.85%), and Husqvarna with a 2.97% share in 10th spot.
The largest single sector of the German motorcycle market YTD has been the 'Naked' style segment (33,791 units sold for a segment market share of 32.53%). Adventure bikes are the second largest segment with 18,838 units sold, 18.13% segment share, followed by Enduro/Supermoto, SBK/SSP/sports bikes, 'City Classics', Choppers and 'Grand Tourismo'.
The Top 6 electric PTW brands in Germany YTD were Kawasaki (156 units, 25.6% market share), Zero (121 units), Vmoto (52 units), LiveWire (31 units) and Energica (18 units).
For the record: in motorcycle terms, the German market was up in 2023 at +16.41% (125,709 units). In total PTW terms, the German market was +6.98% at 215,501 units. The used market in Germany in 2023 saw 442,868 vehicles change hands in 2023. The top selling motorcycle in Germany in 2023 was the BMW R 1250 GS with 7,529 units sold for a 5.99% market share (the Kawasaki Z900 was second, Honda CB 750 Hornet third). BMW retained its top spot as German motorcycle market share leader with 23,978 units sold for 19.07% market share, which marked some 4.4% growth on its unit sales in 2022. Honda took second spot, with Kawasaki third.

Puig

Puig Hi-Tech Parts Additions - Honda XL750 Transalp


The designers at Barcelona based Puig Hi-Tech Parts have had the Honda XL750 Transalp in their sights recently, with a full suite of model-specific and universal fit parts designs for the return of a popular Honda model series that first hit the market with the 1987 Model Year, initially as a 400.
Despite having been ahead of its time in terms of the proto-ADV 'Dual Sport' vision that Honda had for the Transalp, it took it out of production as a liquid-cooled four-stroke 52-degree V-twin in 2013. A decade later, it returned to much acclaim with the same parallel twin engine that Honda is using for the 750 cc Hornet.
However, whereas Transalp V. 1.0 varied in design focus and was a multi-terrain capable, but mostly on-road Touring model, the design of the relaunched XL750 is a response to the evolution of the segment and the emergence of what is now called the 'Crosstourer' sector.
The Puig parts and accessories range for these models runs from screens to mirrors, mudguards, protectors, lights and more …

Windshields
Puig offers a selection of windshield options. Depending on the model, they are made from 3-4 mm thick scratch-resistant polycarbonate and are all developed in its virtual software to optimise aerodynamics, rider comfort and field of view.
Puig's Sport screen is an aesthetic upgrade that matches the lines of the bike thanks to the different colours available. Designed for short trips or urban riding, the compact dimensions make it slightly smaller than the original screen, but the ergonomics derived from the virtual wind tunnel optimisation provides the rider with remarkable protection and enhanced riding comfort. 

Sport screen

All Puig screens feature a regulation-friendly 2 mm rounded safety edge and ship with the aerodynamic optimisation report that compares the performance of their design to the OEM screen they replace.
Puig Touring screens are slightly larger than the OEM design and aerodynamically optimised to protect the rider without compromising the field of vision. They are available with or without a variable visor that will redirect the wind even more while achieving a great sense of comfort and stability. This visor is securely fixed to the touring windscreen by screws that affix to the pre-drilled holes.

Touring screen with visor

Finally, the new Puig 2.0 multi-adjustable visor is aerodynamically designed for improved protection. Designed with minimalist lines, the special design is optically optimised, measuring 300 mm wide and 130 mm high for maximised stability and airflow management.
The rider is able to adjust the visor in up to four rotation positions, which, together with the guides that allow its height to be adjusted by 100 mm, mean an infinite range of fine-tuned positions allow it to be adjusted to the rider's height or preferences. Available in clear and light smoked.

Handguard extension

Manufactured in PMMA (Polymethylmethacrylate) - a hard material that is very impact resistant - these are a "great option to redirect airflow and protect the lever and hands. Available in choice of finishes".

Rear fenders

Manufactured in impact-resistant ABS material, they protect from water, mud and impacts, covering one of the empty areas of Honda's original design. Three different styles are available, from the rear mudguard with aluminium support and breaker design with aluminium injection supports fixed to the swingarm that has been created specifically for Crosstourer models, to rear mudguard "S", ideal for Naked models, and type "R", specific for R motorcycles.
Front fender extension
Debris protection in impact resistant ABS; also available in three choices.

Levers 3.0

Puig's latest ergonomic levers bring a more modern and aggressive touch to the bike. The new shape of the levers allows for greater grip. Choice of colourways and four different models - folding, fixed, short and extendable folding.

Trail 2.0. footpegs

CNC-machined from a block of aluminium and anodised in up to seven different colours; 85 mm long and 51 mm wide and weigh only 130 g.

Enduro footpegs

Designed specifically for Crosstourer motorcycles. On/off rubber bands that can be removed or put back on quickly, measuring 95 mm long and 60 mm wide; anodised aluminium; weigh only 440 g.

Hi-Tech 'Radikal' grips

Aggressive and breakthrough design, inspired by racing competition; non-slip texture; anodised aluminium insert available in various colours; suitable for 22 mm handlebars in 119 mm or 123 mm lengths; weigh only 64 g.

PUIG/MOTOPLASTIC S.A.
www.puig.tv

Zontes

Zontes triples hit the market By Ben Purvis

China's Zontes has been promising a range of three-cylinder bikes for years and finally got around to unveiling the 703F adventure bike and 703RR sports bike at EICMA last year. Now they're starting to roll off production lines in China and we've got more details of some of the most intriguing machines yet to emerge from that country's motorcycle industry.
The 703F is the first model to reach Chinese showrooms and is expected to be heading to the West in the near future, and the full specifications reveal some surprises. Starting with the basics, the 699 cc triple features a 70 mm bore and 60.6 mm stroke along with a high 13:1 compression ratio, putting out 96 hp (71.5 kW) at 10,000 rpm and 56 lb-ft (76 Nm) at 7,500 rpm. It's mounted in a cast aluminium beam frame with fully adjustable Marzocchi suspension and touts its off-road credentials via a 21 in front and 18 in rear wheel, while a large 22-litre fuel tank promises plenty of range. 

703RR

The real surprises are the level of standard electronic equipment. Keyless ignition, for example, along with electronic locks for the seat and fuel tank, as well as electric adjustment for the screen, heated grips and automatic, light-sensing headlights. There are cornering lights as well, plus scrolling indicators and tyre pressure monitors. ABS and traction control are standard, but so is a rear-mounted radar unit that monitors vehicles behind and provides blind spot warnings via lights in the mirrors. 

703F

Deliveries in China are already underway, and Zontes' decision to unveil the bike in Milan last year indicates that international sales will follow soon.
The 703RR sports bike isn't quite in dealers yet, but it has passed Chinese type-approval, showing that it too is production-ready. The approval documents confirm that it puts out a bit more power than the 703F, with a peak of 100 hp (75 kW), and it's a lot lighter, coming in at 196 kg, including a tank of fuel.  The approvals also show that Zontes has refined the styling since EICMA, adding more subtle headlights than those seen on the show version, which unusually are mounted on either side of the fairing, incorporated into the winglets.

Arrowhead Engineered Products

AEP merges P&W with Bihr's German subsidiary

As the Genstar Capital owned Arrowhead Engineered Products (AEP - Blaine, Minnesota) continues its search for synergies and adjacencies in order to optimise efficiencies and rationalise economies of scale in the diverse network of acquisitions it has made in the powersports industry (on both sides of the Atlantic) in the past decade, one such has been a decision to merge two of its German motorcycle industry subsidiaries, announced in April this year.

Bihr (powersports distributor of Bartenheim, France, and Kontich, Belgium) formally acquired Glinde, Hamburg based distributor and own brand operator Paaschburg & Wunderlich (P&W) in June 2021 - having co-located its own German market subsidiary (Bihr GmbH) at the P&W premises some 21 months earlier. Bihr was in turn acquired by AEP in October 2022, with P&W (and several other European motorcycle businesses that Bihr had acquired) coming as part of the package. 

At that stage, AEP had already owned British distributor Hi-Level since 2015 and Italian piston manufacturer Vertex since 2016. Bihr itself had additionally acquired several businesses (P&W being one of them) by the time the deal with AEP took place. These included the British Moto Direct/RST apparel operation. 

In the United States, AEP owns and operates Western Power Sports, one of the largest powersports industry P&A/G&A distributors, and a number of other brands, including All Balls Racing, Winderosa and the C&E Companies brands - such as Cylinder Works, Hot Cams, Hot Rods, Pivot Works and Tiger Lights. 

Now, in what AEP describes as a "significant milestone", the two German entities, Paaschburg & Wunderlich GmbH and Bihr GmbH, will be merged by the end of this year, and will operate under the name Paaschburg & Wunderlich GmbH. "This merger brings together the best of both companies, promising unparalleled local expertise, a high level of service and an unbeatable brand portfolio," said an AEP company statement. 

The joint entity is headed up by Peter Hakanson (as Managing Director), the former automotive and electronics industry executive (Delphi, Volvo, GE, Philips) who AEP hired as president to head-up its consolidated Powersports Europe operation a couple of years ago.

"This migration has prompted several key developments: the company is focused on expanding the growth of its leading own brand HIGHSIDER across Europe. As such, the product portfolios of its proprietary brands, Shin Yo, LSL, V-Parts, and Vicma will be reassessed and integrated into HIGHSIDER. Further details on this process will be released in the coming months. 

"Additionally, the business will also streamline its range of supplier brands. As a result, a portion of the existing brands it distributes will be phased out and replaced by equivalent products from HIGHSIDER and other brands within the Bihr portfolio.

"These strategic decisions will position Paaschburg & Wunderlich to have the most relevant technical accessories brands within in the sector." 

Peter Hakanson is quoted as saying: "This merger and the new brand strategy represent a significant step towards an even stronger market position for us. We are confident that the combination of proven expertise, excellent service and a comprehensive brand portfolio will provide even greater value to our dealers." 

The company says it "looks forward to an exciting future and reiterates its commitment to remaining a trusted partner for its suppliers and customers" 

www.arrowheadepinc.com

World Ducati Week 2024

World Ducati Week 2024 Programme

Slated for Friday July 26 to Sunday 27 at the Misano World Circuit 'Marco Simoncelli', Ducati has published the programme for the event.

Delivering a "unique experience on and off the track, features include riding opportunities, product world premières, motorcycle parades, evening events, meet-and-greet sessions with the Ducati champions, and much more.

"For several months, the Ducati events team has been working to offer thousands of enthusiasts an extraordinary weekend of emotion, passion and fun. A celebration dedicated to all motorcycling enthusiasts, this is the most extensive calendar of activities in the history of World Ducati Week with unique and unrepeatable events that join other experiences scheduled on all three days of the event.

Such features include the exhibition dedicated to the history of the Ducati 916 family and the presence of the Truck-Team MX, showcasing Ducati's exciting new chapter in motocross. The aim is clear: to concentrate and to transfer all the essence of Ducati to the participants, respecting the motto 'All in One'.

"The pace of WDW2024 will be very high, right from the traditional opening day Lap of Honour for all the riders present at the event, including the legendary ones who have taken the red bikes from Borgo Panigale to victory on circuits all over the world. Carl Fogarty, Troy Bayliss, Carlos Checa, Régis Laconi and Rubén Xaus will join today's riders and lap side by side on their race bikes, celebrating the pride of being Ducatisti.

Highlights of World Ducati Week 2024:

Friday 26 July:

• Lap of Honour
• Lenovo Race of Champions - free practice & qualifying
• WDW2024 Parade
• "Land of Joy at the Beach" at Bagno Samsara in Riccione with "Rustida"
• Saturday 27 July:
• Celebratory activity dedicated to the Ducati 916 family with T. Bayliss and C. Fogarty
• Lenovo Race of Champions - race starting at 5.30 p.m.
• Track invasion of the WDW2024 crowd
• "Saturday Night Show" in collaboration with Radio Deejay

Sunday 28 July:

• Ducati experiences between the track, the paddock and the surrounding area at the Misano World Circuit

Italjet

Italjet Dragster Gresini Racing MotoGP replicas

Bologna based Italjet recently released details of two more Dragster replica versions - this time Gresini Racing MotoGP replicas - in two versions. A Standard version in 125 cc, 200 cc and 300 cc displacements, and a Limited Edition 300 cc special, produced in just 75 units. 

Italjet is a technical sponsor of the Gresini Racing MotoGP Team, and with the Standard version available in the characteristic livery of the Gresini Racing Team, "the exclusive Limited Edition is reserved for true two-wheel enthusiasts and the most demanding collectors" - a numbered edition of just 75 units, only available with 300 cc displacement.

"The response to the Limited-Edition Dragster Gresini Racing MotoGP replica was immediately extraordinary," declared Massimo Tartarini, President and CEO of Italjet. "The demand was so high that it pushed us to increase production from the initially planned 50 units to 75 vehicles."

Each of the specials will have a special plate numbered from 01/75 to 75/75. There will be Öhlins suspensions (front and rear) and an Akrapovic racing exhaust system (in addition to the standard exhaust). For an extreme racing look, there will be a rear seat pod with MotoGP style wings positioned in place of the passenger seat (also supplied) and a special guarantee of an authenticity hologram to confirm its special status as an official product endorsed by the Gresini Racing MotoGP Team.

The two new Dragster Gresini Racing MotoGP replica versions, which will join the Dragster 125 cc, 200 cc and 300 cc models and the respective Malossi replica versions, will debut on the market starting from September 2024.

www.italjet.com 

CFMoto

CFMoto 800MT-X confirmed for production By Ben Purvis

At EICMA last year, CFMoto showed a concept bike - the MT-X - that was clearly derived from KTM's 790 Adventure and looked very close to being production-ready. Now the finished version of that machine has been type-approved to show that an official launch is imminent.

The finished bike will actually be offered in several forms, with two screen heights and a choice of high or low front mudguards, as well as optional luggage, creating eight different combinations before we get into details like colours.

Compared to the EICMA concept version, the production model is largely unchanged. It gains pillion footpegs and a street-legal exhaust system instead of the race pipe of the show bike, and the concept's Brembo brakes and cowled front discs are swapped for more affordable J.Juan components without the extra plastics, but otherwise the production model has emerged unscathed. 

Mechanically, it uses the 799 cc version of the KTM LC8c parallel twin, as featured in the 790 Adventure and 790 Duke as well as CFMoto's 800MT and 800NK models. All the 799 cc versions of that engine are now manufactured in China by CFMoto and KTM's joint venture, so it's the logical choice. In the 800MT-X it puts out 94 hp (70 kW), giving a top speed of 192 km/h (119 mph), and the bike weighs a respectable 214 kg including fuel or 235 kg for the version with luggage.

That fuel is carried low down in side-mounted tanks, just like the KTM 790 Adventure, and it appears that the frame is also borrowed from the KTM, although the swingarm is CFMoto's own, and the suspension is KYB rather than WP kit. At 1,530 mm, the wheelbase is slightly longer than the 1,509 mm of the 790 Adventure, probably thanks to the changed swingarm.

The 800MT-X marks the first time that a KTM-engined CFMoto has really gone head-to-head with the KTM-branded machine using the same powertrain, perhaps reflecting the ever-closer bond between the two companies.

Evo-X Racing

Evo-X Racing buys the SKeeD protective undergarments brand

After 10 years as distributor for the French market, Evo-X Racing has acquired the SKeeD brand of FFM, FIM, FIM and SFI endorsed protective sport underclothing.

Based near Lyon, SKeeD products are an intermediate layer worn by motorcycle racers and sports riders to protect against any material likely to melt during a high-speed skid, such as a synthetic lining. It also helps limit leather-to-skin heat transfer due to its insulating properties and thus limits the risk of burning.

SKeeD clothing is especially designed for two-wheeler driving. It is made from French manufactured Kermel fibre, which is used to equip elite forces all over the world, such as firefighters or military aviators. It is a unique fibre, boasting extraordinary properties - a high-technology fibre that is intrinsically non-flammable and melt-resistant. "Its qualities also include exceptional comfort and thermal protection, as well as effective moisture management," says Evo-X Racing and new SKeeD owner Sébastien Aubry.

"The deal was sealed with former owner Sébastien Jarrot at the 2024 Salon du Deux Roues in Lyon and new partnerships with French and European teams and dealers are already being established.

"With our ten years of experience in the distribution of the SKeeD brand in France, we have decided to integrate SkeeD into the Evo-X family, thus demonstrating our continuity to offer high-quality and innovative products, faithful to the DNA of Evo-X Racing."

Developed by former French pharmaceutical giant Rhône-Poulenc, the qualities of Kermel are remarkable - remaining unchanged regardless of the weather and the number of washes. It is not a flame retardant applied to the mesh, but instead its qualities are characteristics that are integral and specific to the fibre itself and from the design of the garments it is used for. 

Kermel fibre is a polyamide-imide fibre and is a member of the meta-aramid family. A polyamide-imide polymer is a molecular structure, which is naturally thermostable and fireproof, which means that its temperature does not change, that it is inflammable and that it is heat-resistant.

It can be used constantly in average temperatures of 200 °C. It doesn't start to change until it exceeds 400 °C and even offers maximum protection for a few seconds against very high temperatures (up to 1,000 °C).

The fibre's thermo-stability properties mean it offers great thermal insulation. The fibre does not change temperature in external conditions or on contact with the body, which means body temperature is balanced. As the fibre is unchangeable, its structure does not change under the effect of a liquid. It is therefore non-absorbent, does not retain moisture and dries quickly in the open air.

In terms of undergarment manufacture, Kermel fibre has a smooth surface and is similar to wearing cotton, which gives it a soft, silky touch. It has great flexibility and resistance, which makes it a highly stretchable material.

www.skeed.eu

Bimota

Bimota returns to WorldSBK grid By Ben Purvis

Bimota - now safely under the wing of Kawasaki and on firm financial footing for perhaps the first time in its long history - is to make a surprise return to top level racing in 2025 as it replaces Kawasaki's works outfit on the WSBK grid.

To achieve that goal, the company needs to launch and start to manufacturer a brand new 1,000 cc road-going Superbike, which will be powered by Kawasaki's ZX-10RR engine and launched in the second half of 2024.

KRT Team Manager Guim Roda

Kawasaki might have enjoyed plenty of success in WSBK in recent years, but Bimota's ties to the series date back to the dawn of the championship in 1988, when Davide Tardozzi came oh so close to claiming the first WSB title on his works Bimota YB4. 

He won more races than any other rider that year, but was just beaten to the title by Honda-mounted Fred Merkel. Bimota continued in WSBK until 1992 and returned in 2000 to gain a remarkable race win at Phillip Island with Anthony Gobert on the Suzuki-powered SB8K - a machine that was utterly outclassed by rivals in a season that, for Bimota, was cut short by bankruptcy. A revived Bimota tried again in WSBK in 2014 with the BMW-engined BB3, but was disqualified for failing to meet minimum production requirements.

They won't have those sorts of problems this time, with Kawasaki providing the engines, the financial muscle and the race team itself. To comply with the rules, Bimota needs to manufacture a road-going Superbike around the ZX-10RR's engine, potentially to be called the KB5, and to manufacture a minimum of 125 examples by the time of the FIM's homologation inspection at the start of the next race season, rising to 250 by the end of next year, with at least 250 more to be made in 2026.

Those numbers are big for Bimota, but tiny in Kawasaki's eyes, and perhaps reflect the direction of the market for road-going Superbikes. While European brands like Ducati and BMW are enjoying sales success with the Panigale V4 and M1000RR, Japanese companies have been struggling to find customers for their 1,000 cc Superbikes in recent years. 

Suzuki has already withdrawn the GSX-R1000 from European markets and is doing the same in Japan at the end of this year, and Yamaha is believed to have decided not to upgrade the YZF-R1 to Euro 5+ emissions rules that are required in Europe from the start of 2025. 

Bimota KB4

By outsourcing its Superbike responsibilities to Bimota, Kawasaki can get the cachet and exclusive appeal of a European brand to stay on the Superbike scene without having to update its own ZX-10RR. A Bimota will also be able to command higher prices than a Kawasaki-branded Superbike, making it easier for the project to bank a profit, although it will have to abide by the € 44,000 price cap for machines homologated to run in WSBK.

KRT Team Manager, Guim Roda, said: "In the past 13 years, myself and all of those at the KRT workshop in Granollers have dedicated ourselves wholeheartedly to the Kawasaki Superbike project and garnered seven WorldSBK rider titles in that time, plus numerous team and manufacturer awards. 

"Now - after Kawasaki competed for nearly four decades in the Superbike championship - we are proud to be part of a new era, forming the infrastructure of the new Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team. For sure we will spare some time to reflect on and celebrate the heritage of Kawasaki in Superbike racing, but we are also extremely excited to be a core component of this new Bimota and Kawasaki joint venture. 

"This is an evolution for Kawasaki's approach to the top level of production racing and we are honoured to play our role in this new project. I am confident we have the technology and human resources necessary to succeed and it will be a fresh, energising experience fielding an impressive two rider team in the 2025 Motul FIM WorldSBK Championship."

BS Battery

High-powered bike-specific SLA Max BGZ Series batteries

French battery specialist BS Battery is offering dealers five new Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries for large displacement touring model applications, providing up to 20% more Touring model power.

Part of the company's SLA Max range, these latest generation, factory-activated BGZ batteries are designed specifically for the high cranking amp requirements of high-powered Touring models. 

Features include built-in copper nuts on the terminal to enhance conductivity by up to 50% more than a standard terminal and improve torque, and taller plates for more starting power.

The company says that "the new design and materials combination means something like the BGZ battery is able to keep a Touring bike powered even when it is loaded up with electronic accessories that draw from the battery, such as a GPS or phone charger.

"Our ready to use factory-activated BGZ batteries are maintenance-free and non-spillable. They are the most powerful models in our award-winning SLA Max range with a starting power, life cycle and capacity of up to 20% greater than standard SLA battery technology".

That makes them ideal for big bore V-twin as well as Japanese and European manufacturer 'metrics' and for ATVs and UTV powersports applications. BS Battery says it also has a full range of BGZ/SLA Max compatible chargers and conditioners - such as the pro-grade 'Connect and Forget' BS30, which "can easily serve batteries with up to 60 Ah and 120 Ah (for maintenance), which makes it ideal for larger bikes". Additional features include a multi-axis hook.

It is one of five smart chargers in a range that also includes its sophisticated, reconditioning function-equipped BK20 three-bank smart charger - for simultaneous charging and maintenance of different battery voltages and technologies. 

BS BATTERY

www.bs-battery.com

GIVI

Trekker Alaska aluminium cases

The family of Monokey Alaska aluminium cases includes a pair of 36 litre side cases and two top cases, 56 and 44 litres.  Cutting-edge technical solutions have been adopted in the design and production of this line, with three new patents registered.

A unique line, able to combine remarkable technical equipment with a relatively low price, which positions it as the entry level within the range of GIVI aluminium cases. Made of aluminium in natural finish and matt black versions, they share their design, practicality and Monokey fixing system. 

The opening system, which features 'comb' hinges, provides greater structural rigidity than traditional hinges, as well as eliminating the use of retaining cables once the lid is open. 

The patented WIRELEASE unlocking system enables the release of the case from the plate, or from the side frame, by turning an external knob equipped with a steel cable system. A rear hook allows the case to remain anchored to the frame leaning outwards, allowing the lid to be opened and closed without interfering with the top case or any luggage fixed to the saddle.

All Alaska cases are equipped with sturdy carry handles (two on the top case, one for the side cases) which are integrated into the case frame itself. The four belt-strap loops machined directly from the mould of the angles are essential for securing an additional load.

Optional accessories include a passenger backrest, lid liners and water-resistant inner bags.

ALA36A and ALA36B are a pair of Monokey side cases equipped with matching keys and third cylinder to mount on the top case. The capacity is 36 litres each and the dimensions are 562 x 374 x 260 mm (WxHxD). ALA44A and ALA44B are rear Monokey cases, with a 44-litre capacity (one modular helmet) and dimensions of 464 x 331 x 421 mm. ALA56A and ALA56B are Monokey rear cases, with a capacity of 56 litres (two modular helmets) and dimensions of 559 x 328 x 463 mm. All cases have a maximum load of 10 kg.

GIVI S.P.A.

www.givimoto.com