Parts Europe

Parts Europe adds Sweden's SKF, German John Doe and French AXP brands

Wasserliesch, Germany based international distributor Parts Europe has continued its regular new product programme with the addition of the Swedish SKF seals and bearings range, the German John Doe apparel brand and the French AXP Products MX/Enduro motorcycle protection hard parts line.

Based near Mainz in Germany, apparel brand John Doe is noted for the materials and technologies that it uses for its motorcycle gear, including its in-house XTM brand.

"Every seam, every pocket, every single centimetre of fabric has been thought through down to the last detail and tested under maximum loads before it goes out on the road CE-certified".

XTM-Fiber is made up of an outer extremely abrasion-resistant layer of DuPont Kevlar fibres and an integrated Lycra stretch component - "ensuring a perfect balance between the best possible protection and maximum comfort. The Twolayer with XTM-Fiber also has a breathable Coolmax blended fibre on the inside for a temperature-regulating effect on the body's response to the riding climate".  

John Doe apparel is knee, hip and back XTM protectors-ready. Flat and 100% made from polyurethane, this viscoelastic foam "adapts flexibly to every movement and has extremely good shock-absorbing properties, even in the event of a high-speed impact".

Founded in 1999 by Pierre Dugardin and based near Bordeaux, AXP Racing is an MX, Enduro and Quad motorcycle and powersports vehicle protection parts specialist, renowned for the robust construction of their strong, lightweight aluminium and HDPE plastic components.

HDPE plastic is 30 to 40% lighter than aluminium, tougher than expensive carbon fibre, and "allows riders to glide over all kinds of rocks, stones and whatever else might get in their way". The 'Radiator Brace' radiator guard was developed for motocross and classic enduro, is made of 4 mm thick aluminium and fits the respective bike without any need for modification. 

Nowadays, extreme racing is becoming increasingly popular. To meet this trend, AXP Racing has also developed the new 'Xtrem Radiator Guards', consisting of a radiator cage made of 4 mm thick aluminium; the Xtrem version also contains a 6 mm thick HDPE grid that reinforces the protection. AXP also offers skid plates (including ADV), reinforced chain guides and trail racks.

One of the best known and oldest established component manufacturers in the powersports industry, Gothenburg, Sweden based SKF can trace its origins back to 1907. SKF is the world's largest bearing manufacturer and is considered a prestigious brand for powersports industry parts and component distributors to have in their portfolios.

The company manufactures and supplies bearings, seals, lubrication and lubrication systems, maintenance products, mechatronics products, power transmission products, condition monitoring systems and related services, globally.

www.partseurope.eu

News Briefs

Yamaha Motor has announced a technical partnership agreement with UK based race legend Lola Cars Ltd. The deal is for the development and supply of high-performance electric powertrains to be part of an official manufacturer in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, the world’s premier racing series for all-electric single-seater vehicles. 

Finland based electric PTW manufacturer Verge Motorcycles will open its first U.S. stores in Los Angeles (Westfield Century City Shopping Center) and San Jose (Westfield Valley Fair Mall in San Jose), California, in June 2024. The company opened a U.S.-based Innovation Office in the Salesforce Tower in San Francisco in 2023.

Bill Melvin's Grand Rapids, Michigan based Buell Motorcycle Co. is looking for growth in international markets such as Japan, France, Spain, Brazil, Canada and Italy - markets that have been "instrumental for Buell Motorcycle clubs for decades. After being void in those markets for over ten years", Melvin says it "plans to regrow global distribution in these markets during the next few years." In a press release, the company announced that, with the support of the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Michigan Development Corporation, it has hired an experienced internal team to handle international dealers.

Italian brakes manufacturer Brembo reports Q1, 2024 results with revenues at € 1,004.6m (up +5.3% on a like-for-like exchange rate basis), with EBITDA at € 176.8m (17.6% margin), EBIT margin at 11.2% (€ 112.8 m) and net profit at € 75.2m. Net investments and increases in leased assets were at € 75.2m and net financial debt at € 529.5m (€ 357.5m prior to the application of IFRS 16), up € 23.1m compared to the period to 31 March 2023.

Central Banks around the world have warned bankers about failures to monitor private equity activity. A "creeping sense of complacency and lack of data" is said to be putting lenders at risk of exposure to "severe, unexpected losses". They are failing to "properly measure how exposed they are" to the fund bonus and yield-driven private equity industry culture, the BoE has warned. Similar warnings are going unheeded in the United States and elsewhere. The amount of assets managed by private equity businesses globally has grown at a rate of about 13% a year, rising from $2tn in 2012 to around $8tn in 2023, with individual funds also growing exponentially (Reuters).

The Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials (the AMA Land Speed Grand Championship and FIM Land Speed World Records) are slated for August 24-29, 2024 - weather permitting. They were called off in 2023, 2022 and 2015 due to flooding and in 2020 due to Covid; www.bonnevillemst.com

SIP Scootershop

SIP Scootershop - more than 3,000 visitors to 30th Anniversary Open Day 

German scooter performance parts and accessory specialist SIP Scootershop saw a crowd of over 3,000 enthusiasts descend on its Landsberg am Lech headquarters in Bavaria in May to help celebrate its 30th anniversary.

From modest, but passionate beginnings, Ralf Jodl and his team have carefully built one of Europe's leading specialist scooter businesses - a shrine to all things scooter - especially Vespa - and an exercise in enthusiasm and dedication.

"What an experience that was," says Ralf. "The best day of the year and our best Open Day ever! Once again, we were outrageously lucky with the weather, but around 3,000 guests, friends, dealers and families were part of a unique occasion that saw Vespas, Lambrettas and more from many corners of the country (and beyond) keep arriving at our site - the valet parking attendants had their hands full. 

"At one point, the entire surrounding streets were filled with scooters - a marvellous sight and for sure a new attendance record for a SIP Open Day. The hotels in Landsberg reported that all beds were occupied - no more places available in the town.

Andi Jung from Kaufbeuren was the first brave person to sign up at the tattoo stand to have the SIP logo engraved: "I think the tattoo campaign is really cool and I would like to support the donation. I've been a customer at SIP for years, love the shop and always enjoy coming here." Over the course of the day, 11 more SIP fans came forward and got the logo tattoo, and ARCHE Landsberg can now look forward to € 2,400. A further donation of € 500 to the scooter riders' charity 'Um halb an der Bar' came from the Vespa Club of Germany."

Always a popular highlight, it was "loud and smoky all day on the dynamometer". The afternoon saw the climax and showdown. First Jesco let his black Vespa Racer with EGIG 400 cc engine howl and set the bar pretty high with 84 hp. But Nico Pendl from Austria broke this record with 87 hp and, thanks to nitrous oxide, he even managed a sensational 92 hp in the second round. 

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, SIP Scootershop and selected partners have launched five limited edition complete engines. Presented by 'Workshop Meister' Robert, the series features engine SIP V-One 30/25 244 ccm; engine SIP VR-One 30/30 244 ccm; engine SIP EVO 30/30 180 ccm by EGIG; engine SIP EVO 30/25 170 ccm by EGIG and engine SIP BFA 325 by Casa Performance. 

"The action on the cross track saw riders taking to the track for their first runs of the year, in advance of the action starting on Saturday 27 July at the 3rd Matscho Karatscho (27 July, 2024). Next door to the track the action was a little more tranquil, as the Vespa Club of Germany had set up a parkour for the trial tournament. Only those who had perfect control of their scooter could complete a faultless lap. Till Kleinschmidt came out the winner with a time of 00:56.21. The stunt show was by Italian acrobatics legend Nicola L'impennatore.

"Our international guests, who once again turned up in large numbers, were also amazed: Josh Rogers is not only the president of the Vespa Club USA, but is also known for his scooter collection. Lome from Vintage Vespa in Thailand has been a customer and good friend of the company for years, as have Pete Delaney from Canada, Bojan from Bosnia, and Ben and Sylvain from Authentik Scooter in Biarritz, France. Peter had travelled from Denmark with a whole gang, while the guests from Vintage Vespa Puerto Rico had, of course, not come across the ocean on a scooter. As always, we were also delighted to welcome guests and friends from Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, England, France, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Austria.

"During the day, DJ Jan Otto and Roberto Patrik Klegazz provided the perfect Open Day soundtrack, which was only silenced briefly when a true beauty saw the light of day at lunchtime. As CEOs, Alex and I, together with builders Christoph and Basti and painter Marcus Pfeil, presented our brand-new custom scooter "Tribute". Packed with high-end and carbon parts, as well as an eye-catching paint job by Pfeil Design, and an engine tuned to almost 300 cc. A worthy scooter for the 30th anniversary of SIP Scootershop.

"There were company tours that gave a look behind the scenes at SIP, advice and help sessions were held in the company flagship store, there were test ride opportunities and a hugely popular used parts selection.

"Many thanks to our organisation crew, all the hard-working employees, expert dealers and, of course, the fantastic guests who made the day an unforgettable experience. Next stop: 50 years of SIP Scootershop"! 

www.sip-scootershop.com

Wideframe Vespas

Characterised by their motorcycle-style handlebars, the tuning of wideframe Vespa models has recently become more popular than ever. 

The mileage done on these venerable 'old ladies' is necessarily low, as is the power available from the stock engines at around 2-3 hp. 

However, a dedicated group of tireless tuners and spirited engineers have got together around the 'Faro Basso' models in a search of satisfactory repair, restoration and upgrade solutions. They have been busy optimising the porting on original cylinders, swapping pistons and experimenting with various carburettor set-ups and more.

The results? A new 100-page catalogue dedicated to the 'fenderlight' Vespa models is available online a IDDUU or on the SIP Scootershop website.

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italy new motorcycle and PTW registrations at record highs

The latest available data from the Italian motorcycle industry association (ANCMA) show new motorcycle registrations in Italy for the first six months of 2024 up by a very healthy +7.75% at 96,411 units, having been positive for four out of the six months so far, and all three months of Q2.

This has meant another post 2013 record for the Italian market for the first half of the year. Total PTW registrations were +6.21% YTD at an unprecedented 203,874 units - also a post dawn of creation record for the first half of the year in Italy!

The top-selling motorcycle YTD was the Benelli TRK 702/X (4,344 units sold in H1). This was followed by the BMW 1300 GS with 3,394 units sold. Unusually, in a sea of scooters, this placed the leading two larger displacement motorcycles in 7th and 10th spot respectively in terms of all PTW sales in Italy YTD. Indeed, the Honda Africa Twin was in 16th spot with 2,677 units sold YTD.

Honda's SH 125, 150 and 350 were the top-sellers overall, followed by the KYMCO Agility 125 R16 in fourth, Piaggio Liberty 125 ABS and Honda X-ADV 750 in fifth and sixth spots. Maxi and ADV style scooters remain strong sellers in Italy - Honda's ADV 350 and 750, Yamaha's XMAX 300 and TMAX, Piaggio's Beverly 300, the BMW R 1300 GS and Honda Africa Twin among them. 

Total Scooter sales were 107,463 units (+4.87%) in Italy in the first half year.

For the record: 2023 motorcycle sales were 145,405 units in 2023 (+14.88%), with all months in positive territory - the best Italian annual market numbers since before the 2007/2008 financial crisis and the resulting Great Recession. In total PTW terms, the Italian market was +17.94% in 2023, with a massive 318,948 units registered. Scooters were up by +20.64% at 173,543 units. The top selling motorcycle was the Benelli TRK 502/X (4,075 units), followed by the Honda Africa Twin (3,880) in a market where Maxi Scooters and ADV/Enduro style machines continue to gain share. 

KTM

KTM 990 RC R in 2025 By Ben Purvis

Despite competing in MotoGP under both the KTM and GasGas brands, and having no concerns about making a 180 hp Super Duke R streetfighter, KTM has shied away from building a large road-going sports bike for the last decade since the demise of the RC8R - but in 2025, it's edging back in that direction with the new 990 RC R.

It might have a capacity of 947 cc and bodywork that mimics KTM's MotoGP machine, but the RC R isn't intended to compete in the 'litre' superbike class against the current generation of 200 hp-plus missiles. Instead, it's a parallel twin powered by the same LC8c engine that debuted in the 990 Duke for 2024, putting it up against the likes of Ducati's Panigale V2 rather than its range-topping Panigale V4. As such, it's intended to comply with the 'next generation' World Supersports regulations that allow a broad array of bikes to compete in the sub-superbike class.

Although KTM has previously made limited-edition runs of the RC 8C track bike, with similar appearance to the 990 RC R, the two projects aren't really related. The RC 8C was developed out-of-house by ex-KTM staff at Kramer, packing KTM's 890 LC8c engine into a Kramer-designed frame. The 990 RC R, in contrast, shares its heritage with the new 990 Duke, using modified versions of the Duke's engine and frame, and has been developed entirely by KTM itself.

For the 990 RC R, the engine is uprated to 94 kW (126 hp), which is still fairly modest for its near-litre capacity, but 3.5 kW more than the 990 Duke manages. That change might be down to the addition of an Akrapovic exhaust rather than any internal improvements. The frame is slightly modified compared to the 990 Duke, but clearly from the same basic design. Most notably it gains a rising-rate rear shock setup in place of the direct-action shock of the Duke, but it also has a revised rake of 25 degrees and changes to its rigidity to suit the 990 RC R's sports-oriented design.

So far, KTM has only shown a prototype version of the bike, with a single seat, slicks, adjustable rearsets and a race-spec ECUMaster dashboard. But the 2025 production model is already confirmed to be a road-legal offering, so will get suitable changes to suit that role.

Riaan Neveling, Head of KTM Global Marketing, said: "The KTM 990 RC R is a groundbreaking innovation for those who live for the thrill of cornering. It's for those who lean close to the road, almost brushing their knees, and then push the limits, dragging elbow to the tarmac on the racetrack. This bike offers power and prestige without the exorbitant price tag. At last, we can unveil our KTM 990 RC R and introduce a truly exceptional motorcycle to dealerships in early 2025."

Oxford Products

Oxford Products - Nexus and Cypher 1.0

­­British gear and apparel specialist Oxford Products continues its impressive 2024 product expansion programme with two more new ranges with which dealers can reach to additional sectors of their local riding community.

Nexus one-piece leather suit

The company's new Nexus track-bred street leathers have been in R&D for four years, but have the experience of Oxford's 40 plus years as a race paddock fixture stitched and woven into every feature of a one-piece leather suit that has been newly designed and engineered from the ground up.

Oxford points to the convergence of four primary priorities as having informed all stages of the Nexus design process - "ultimate protection, exceptional comfort, bold styling and race pedigree".

The Nexus one-piece leather suit offers CE AAA rated protection, CE level 2 protectors at the shoulders, elbows, knees and hips, removable knee sliders, TPU abrasion-resistant cups, engineered stretch zones at movement-critical areas and a choice of colourways.

Also available as a two-piece leather suit, protection is CE AAA certified (EN 17092-2:2020) with CE level 2 protectors at the shoulder, elbow, hip and knee (EN 1621-1:2012), external TPU shoulder, elbow and knee sliders for impact and abrasion resistance, replaceable knee sliders (hook-and-loop attachment), back protector pocket (protector available separately).

Climate control is delivered with perforation zones across the suit, stretch textiles to enhance airflow and air circulation and fully removable, breathable mesh lining.

The fabric and construction of the Nexus one-piece suit and jacket/pant combo features 1.2 mm genuine cowhide leather, leather reinforcements at impact abrasion zones, highly abrasion and tear-resistant stretch textile, Neoprene rolled collar, race hump for improved aerodynamics and airflow, reinforced safety seams and an air mesh collar lining for increased comfort and breathability.

The adjustability and fit features include accordion leather stretch panels at the upper back, above the knee and waist that offer improved flexibility, large stretch panels at the shoulders, elbow, inner arm, crotch, inside knee/calf and waist for improved fit and movement on the bike, YKK semi-auto lock zippers at sleeve and hem openings, pre-curved leg construction for an improved riding fit, a stretch internal mesh lining that works in conjunction with outer stretch zones, Coccyx padding on the seat and zipper guards at the cuff, hem and main zipper openings.

Nexus knee sliders are included with all Nexus leather pants and one-piece race suits. Replacements are also available for separate purchase - they are made from a hardwearing compound, with an excellent combination of skin performance and feel.

Cypher 1.0 range

Additionally seen here, the new Cypher 1.0 range is a comfort-optimised AA rated jacket and pants combo with "sharp styling and asymmetric print" - with Dry2Dry lined boots and CE level 2 rated short leather sports gloves also available.

The jacket and pants are made in 1.2 mm genuine cowhide leather, with accordion leather stretch panels at the upper back, lower back, elbows and knees and highly abrasion-resistant stretch panels for improved fit and movement. There are D-ring adjustment tabs at the waist with TPR grip detail and 360-degree reflective chest, shoulder and back inserts.

The gloves are in 100% premium aniline leather with Oxford Sports TPU knuckle, finger and palm sliders, perforated finger fourchettes for ventilation, touchscreen compatible forefinger and thumb and external finger seams for comfort.

The boots are CE level 2/2/2, EN 13634:2017 certified with TPU external shin and heel protection, PU-reinforced structure, Dry2Dry waterproof and breathable membrane, replaceable toe sliders, gear shift pad, accordion stretch zones at the front and rear and 3D mesh lining for breathability.

OXFORD PRODUCTS

www.oxfordproducts.com

Polini Motori

Polini Motori Additions

Piaggio scooter transmission covers

Made for Piaggio 10" wheels (short crankcase 170.0311) and for 12/13" wheels (long crankcase 170.0312) on scooters, these 'Evolution' transmission covers are manufactured in high quality die-cast aluminium with an "innovative design that is the most compact on the market. Designed for maximum flexibility and agility in competitions, they offer superior performance and add a touch of style". 

The input and output flows have been designed for better dissipation of the heat from the transmission components, helping to maintain engine performance, efficiency and component durability. Polini spare parts are available (ref. 290.0136) in case the spring and the gear of the original set-up are damaged.

Vespa 125 2T Primavera ET3 cylinder kit 

This new addition to Polini's range of 'Evolution' performance kits with rotating valve inlet for Vespa 125 Primavera ET3 models is a "unique addition that has been bench and race department tested. It was used by the Polini Team in the 500 km Endurance of Pomposa, proving its reliability and stress resistance. It is a very high-power upgrade for use in all conditions and every type of competition".

It can be installed on all types of Vespa 125 with the original dimension crankshaft and is available for the Polini crankshaft (210.0033) with CNC billet-machined connecting rod - advanced and balanced to be mounted while maintaining the original 51 mm stroke.

In addition to the original manifold, it is possible to mount the 2- or 3-hole Polini manifolds and a new manifold has been specially developed to be combined with Polini PWK carburettors (available in 24/26/28 sizes).

To achieve maximum performance, Polini recommends installing it with the Polini 'For Race' muffler (200.0424).

The cast iron cylinder has a 58 mm diameter bore, 'Racing' distribution geometry and six transfer ports. The gravity-cast light alloy piston is equipped with two cast iron S10 chromed piston rings. The head is cast in one piece and additional fins have been added under the head plane to increase heat dissipation. The compression ratio has been optimised for maximum performance.

 

'For Race' brake shoes - "safety and reliability"

Developed with high quality materials and "meticulous attention to the details", Polini's versatile brake shoes 'For Race' provide high performance and maximum reliability for a wide range of brands, models and applications - both for road and track use, including motorcycles, mopeds, scooters and Vespas.

They have been specified to deliver maximum braking power and offer "a definite improvement over the OE shoes thanks to a specially developed friction compound that optimises performance without compromising reliability". The quality of the materials and the precision of the processing guarantee consistent performance, even in the most extreme conditions.

All Polini products are 100% Made in Italy.

POLINI MOTORI SPA

www.polini.com

motogadget

CAYO - adjustable phone mount system

Berlin based motogadget (of polished aluminium mirrors fame) has introduced what it is describing as a "revolutionary smartphone holder that takes smartphone mounting to a whole new level".

The company says that it has invested "four years of development into this device mount that combines innovative design with the highest functionality. The space-saving construction offers a secure hold for any smartphone. Whether on a bicycle, motorcycle, scooter or in a car - the CAYO mount ensures that the phone is securely fastened and always within reach".

The standard mount, bike.dokk, is "ideal for all vehicles", while the moto.dokk additionally offers inductive charging and vibration damping for motorcycles. Installation is easy, and thanks to the "unique" design of the mechanism, "the phone can be mounted vertically or horizontally at any time without any hassle. With the adjustable arm, the perfect viewing angle can be set".

motogadget

www.cayo.cc

Galfer

Galfer is FIM EnduroGP Championship Official Sponsor again for 2024

After the three world titles won last year with riders Steve Holcombe, EnduroGP World Champion and E2 class champion, and Brad Freeman, the E3 class champion, Spanish braking systems specialist GALFER has renewed World Enduro Championship official sponsorship for 2024.

"Known and appreciated in the world of international competitions, Galfer has always been the number one choice of the best teams and riders in the main world championships, both on-road (MotoGP and WSBK) and off-road (MXGP, EnduroGP, TrialGP and Extreme Enduro)," says CEO Francisco Catena.

"Disc Shark" rear brake disc

"This is in addition to being the original equipment manufacturer for major motorcycle brands such as KTM, GasGas, Beta Motor, TM Racing, Ducati, Triumph, Montesa and more - all have chosen Galfer for their braking systems."

In the 2024 season, the riders who are relying on high performance Galfer braking systems include the Beta Factory Team with Brad Freeman (E3) and Nathan Watson (E2); the riders of the Honda RedMoto World Enduro Team - Steve Holcombe (E1), Thomas Oldrati (E1), Samuele Bernardini (E2), Manolo Morettini (Junior), Francesca Nocera (Women); the riders of Team TM Boano - Matteo Cavallo (E3), Leo Le Quere (E2), Lorenzo Macoritto (E1), and the top riders of Team Sherco CH Racing - Zach Pichon (E1), Wil Ruprecht (E2), Hamish MacDonald (E3), Antoine Magain (E3) and Jeremy Sydow (E1).

Enduro sintered racing compound (G1396R)

"Among the Galfer brake products chosen by the teams, the fixed and floating 'Disc Wave' front brake discs stand out for their performance and reliability, as well as the innovative and high-performance 'Disc Shark' rears that led Steve Holcombe to victory in his double world championship titles last season. All riders equipped with Galfer will also use the Galfer Racing G1396R sintered brake pads in competition."

Also for 2024, Galfer will name the Junior Class "GALFER JUNIOR CLASS", in line with Galfer's goal of focusing attention on enduro, and on emerging new talents.

The FIM EnduroGP World Championship started in Portugal in April, via Romania, Italy and Slovakia, and round 6 will be held in Wales (Rhayader) from August 2nd to 4th before the Grand Finale of the season in France (Brioude) from September 13th to 15th.

INDUSTRIAS GALFER S.A.

www.galfer.eu

News Briefs

BMW Motorrad delivered 46,434 motorcycles and scooters to customers in the first quarter of 2024. While the more than 24,000 units sold in March represented the highest new monthly sales in the brand's history, the quarterly total puts BMW Motorrad 3.1% below its all-time high for the first quarter of 2023. Meanwhile, BMW's automotive division has now made its one millionth Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) sale.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport has signed globally renowned battery manufacturer and power solutions provider OUTDO CORP as a new Technical Partner in its WorldSBK project. The collaboration encompasses both WorldSBK teams, the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team.

In advance of its 2025 plans to start launching street models, Barcelona based electric motocross manufacturer Stark Future has announced a strategic partnership with IPONE Lubricants. The collaboration establishes IPONE as the official motor oil and bike care supplier for the Stark Future Racing Team and the official motor oil for the Stark Future factory production line.

The seemingly troubled FIM World Supercross Championship has announced a four-race schedule for 2024, visiting two new cities. Round 1 will be at BC Place, Vancouver, Canada, on October 26, the home of the Vancouver Whitecaps, a Canadian professional Soccer team. Rounds 2 and 3 will be a Double Header at HBF Park (formerly Perth Oval), the home of Australian A-League Soccer Team Perth Glory, in Perth, Australia, on 23 and 24 November. The 2024 WSX Championship will wrap up at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE, on December 4, during the final race of the 2024 Formula 1 Grand Prix season; www.wsxchampionship.com

Yamaha Motor Europe has appointed Michael van Zomeren as Director of Marketing & Motorsport, and a member of the YME Management Committee, succeeding Paolo Pavesio.

The 2024/2025 FIM Europe SuperEnduro Cup will begin on December 14, 2024, in Gliwice, Poland. The second round will take the competitors to Riesa, Germany, on January 4, 2025, then on to Cluj-Napoca, Romania, for round three on January 18, 2025. The final round will be on February 8, 2025, in Budapest, Hungary.

Italian Bike Week 2024 will return to Lignano Sabbiadoro (Udine, Italy), focusing on adventure and off-road on the weekend of September 12-15. Last year saw some 50,000 visitors enjoying a wide range of activities, from Custom Bike Show and demo rides to the heart of the action at the Off-Road Arena, a 155,000 sq m dirt surface with various tracks suitable for all skill levels. The main track, hosting the Enduro Days by MC Sabbiadoro, spans 7 km and partially follows the route of the legendary 12-Hour Enduro Lignano. There will also be 70 km off-road ADV tours and a 350 km "mini-raid".

In March 2024, Yamaha Motor Europe announced 2024 YRE and commitment to the future of the R1. "In line with the change in demand and customer needs, Yamaha Motor Europe has taken the decision that the future of its track-targeting Supersport models will be dedicated solely to track use from 2025 - with the R1 following the same route taken with the R6 in 2020. Global production of the R1 will continue in 2025 and beyond, as will the development programme that has seen the bike secure world titles in both the FIM Superbike and Endurance World Championships in recent years.

Yamaha Motor has been recognised with Red Dot design awards for the MT-09 and XMAX300 in the 'Product Design 2024' category, marking the 13th consecutive year - every year since 2012 - that a Yamaha Motor product has received Red Dot acclaim.

CFMoto

First look: CFMoto 675SR-R By Ben Purvis

At EICMA last year CFMoto took the wraps off its all-new 675 cc three-cylinder engine with the promise of a new sports bike in 2024 - now that bike has been revealed for the first time in a near-production form.

The CFMoto 675SR-R that’s been officially shown is a one-off in the colours of the Aspar race team that runs CFMoto’s efforts in Moto3 and Moto2, but apart from a few details, the mass-made version due to be launched later this year will be identical.

There’s still a shortage of detailed specifications, but CFMoto has confirmed that the new engine will make more than 100 hp at a peak of 12,300 rpm and says it weighs 10% less than rival engines, coming in at around 55 kg for the motor and transmission. Although a heavily-disguised prototype was briefly run in front of Chinese CFMoto fans at an event at a track in China last year, the new Aspar-coloured 675SR-R confirms key details about the bike including the presence of an aluminium frame with cast sections around the swingarm pivot and extruded beams connecting it to the steering head, cast aluminium swingarm and a belly-mounted exhaust that manages to hide the catalytic converter and silencer from sight.

The KYB upside-down forks, which are fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping are from the 800 NK and offer easily accessible adjusters on top of the fork legs. The brakes, again borrowed from the 800NK, are J.Juan four-piston radial-mounted calipers, backed up by ABS. Given the high level of electronic equipment normally found on Chinese bikes, it will be no surprise if the 675SR-R features an inertial measurement unit for cornering anti-lock and traction control.

Matris

Matris double tube design 'Speed Sensitive' steering dampers

Italian suspension specialist Matris' popular Race and Street version 'Speed Sensitive' steering dampers are precision CNC-machined from high strength, lightweight billet aluminium (no forged parts) and "bring authentic racing aesthetics and race-proven handling improvements to a range of sports and street bike models".

Recently added applications include the BMW 900XR, 750 GS, Kawasaki ZX 4RR, ZX 6R 636 and Z900, CFMoto 800 MT, Ohvale GP-0, Suzuki GSX-8R/S and Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS, 765R/RS and M2.

Matris' Alberto Turcato told IDN that "modern sport bikes, with short wheelbases and high-performance engines, are by nature more prone to unstable movements - regardless of chassis or suspension design.

"Our SDR (Race) and SDK (Street) steering dampers improve front axle control, dampening all the slow oscillations and the rapid changes in direction by reducing shaking and sudden movements of the front wheel to deliver greater safety at high speeds and sport use.

"Fully adjustable, Matris steering dampers have 13 (Street) or 16 (Race) 'active' damping options with calibrated holes and micrometric points of resistance and hardness to achieve progressive 'Speed Sensitive' hydraulic damping."

The Matris 'Speed Sensitive' system reacts to sudden movements by automatically increasing damping force without restricting movement at slow speeds.

A coaxial twin tube system features a titanium outer cylinder with aluminium alloy inner cylinder and high-resistance, high-tensile alloy steel single piston rod with a lapped finish hard chrome coating and lapped finish that effectively guarantees zero stiction. The SDR (Race version) has an extra PVD-TIN (titanium nitride) surface treatment for added performance. 

The nitrogen gas pressurised external reservoir tank improves heat dissipation for greater stability at high operating temperatures and compensates for the fluid expansion effects of heat and pressure.

The advanced design features a double tube system with external titanium cylinder and internal coaxial aluminium cylinder. The single-rod piston rod is in high-resistance steel, coated in hard chrome and with a lapped finish surface treatment. 

The Matris SDR (Race version) features an aluminium alloy front rod-end with chromium-plated steel/PTFE/bronze wheel - additional applications include the BMW R nineT Scramblers, Ducati Multistrada and V4, Kawasaki-ZX 636R and Yamaha MT-09 and R6.

Like many motorcycle parts and accessory manufacturers in Europe, Matris is warning against being fooled by fakes and cheap imitations. Alberto Turcato says: "be sure to buy original and genuine products, including genuine, 100% Made in Italy Matris product. Only buy from our worldwide official distributor network".

MATRIS S.R.L. 

www.matrisdampers.com

K-Tech

K-Tech Europe hires Pere Vilanova

British suspension manufacturer K-Tech has announced that it is investing heavily in a programme of initiatives to grow and support its European sales, starting by hiring former Genuine Performance Europe executive Pere Vilanova as new Business Development Manager. 

Based in Barcelona, the 39-year-old Spaniard will be establishing a central warehouse for K-Tech Europe in Barcelona "provide better service and pricing for European customers. 

Barcelona based K-Tech Europe Business Development Manager Pere Vilanova

"Initially, Pere will be focused on opening new accounts with suspension businesses primarily in Southern Europe, promoting the success of K-Tech in motorcycle sport, and developing sales of the vast range of service and upgrade parts K-Tech offers for both off-road and road bikes. The target is to be a one stop shop for the suspension industry, also the K-Tech website will be a key point to develop business in Europe.

"This will include developing dealer programmes for our class-leading front fork cartridge upgrades and Razor shocks, the development of which filtered down to our street product range through our road racing and Motocross championship success.

Replacement Kashima coated tube for WP shocks

"This year K-Tech is the suspension partner for the BMW R900 Cup and Tracker Kawasaki British Superteen Championship in the British Superbike Championship, and suspension supplier to Moto Rapido Ducati, FS-3 Kawasaki and TAS Racing BMW, with rider Davey Todd winning the Superstock and the Senior class at Isle of Man TT races, using the latest Through Rod Damping System (TRDS) race suspension". 

K-Tech also supports overseas team in World Supersport, AMA, ASBK and other series, including Royal Enfield in the BTR Flat Track and Road Race series in the U.S. 

Alongside manufacturing replacement suspension products K-Tech offer many parts to upgrade  and service original suspension.  

www.ktechsuspension.com

Bonamici Racing

Evo lever protection by Bonamici Racing

Italian parts specialist Bonamici Racing's lever protectors are designed for sport and racing motorcycles, ensuring maximum safety and an extremely low drag coefficient (CX). 

"Installing a lever guard can significantly improve riding safety. Intended to protect manual controls, they offer complete protection in the event of a collision, preventing the bike from overturning and falling if the front brake lever is accidentally hit while riding. These guards are used to protect all types of front brake levers.

"In recent years, it has become mandatory to install lever guards in competitive sports, but we strongly suggest doing the same for street models as well."

Bonamici says its lever guards are a "must for every serious rider" with the breaking point "designed to respond optimally in the event of an impact or a fall. The breaking point ensures that, in the case of a severe ground impact, the guard will not assume dangerous deformations, thereby preventing greater damage. This is an important technical advantage of our lever guards, designed to ensure maximum safety".

They are made in high-performance aerospace aluminium alloys and feature an aerodynamic design that minimises drag to optimise overall efficiency and have been designed in collaboration with the engineers of the GRT Yamaha SBK Team. "The objective has been to achieve a perfect blend of high technology and style. The excellence of Italian design is expressed through elegant lines and high-quality materials, ensuring that your bike not only performs at its best, but also looks extraordinary".

Features include an adjustable angle for a customised position that "optimises comfort and control, as well as better performance. Available in a selection of colours, each lever guard can be personalised with the rider's name, number, or preferred marking for a unique and recognisable product".

Bonamici Racing components are 'Made in Italy' and FIM approved and used in MotoGP, WorldSBK, EWC, MotoAmerica - and even at the IOM TT - as well as in most major national championships and trophies. 

"The Bonamici Racing products you see on the market are the result of relentless work, thorough studies and tireless research on the tracks. It is there, in that whirlwind of adrenaline and competition, that our technicians find inspiration and challenge to create innovative, high-performance solutions with excellent and recognisable 100% Italian design.

"We are the official partner of the BMW World Superbike Team RoKIT with champion rider Toprak Razgatlioglu. We are also a technical partner of HRC, GRT Yamaha WorldSBK, Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK, and Althea Racing Ducati Team in the Supersport category. In the Moto3 class, we work with Honda Team Asia, Leopard Racing and Snipers Team, all HRC motorcycles."

BONAMICI RACING

www.bonamiciracing.it

Pyramid

 Pyramid protection for BMW R1300 GS

British bodywork specialist Pyramid now offers a spray guard extension and Extenda Fenda EXTRA for the latest generation BMW R1300 GS - adding much needed protection for both the front and rear of the big adventure sport bike.

The spray guard extension instantly doubles the size of the standard rear guard - adding extra surface area significantly reduces the debris and spray thrown up by the rear wheel, keeping the rear end of the bike, the rider's and passenger’s legs and any luggage safer and cleaner. 

Shaped to follow the contours of the existing guard - and made in a matching, durable ABS - it looks like an OE item and doesn't clutter the BMW’s minimalist rear end. 

Fitting is easy as it attaches to the existing bracket and doesn’t require any drilling or cutting of the original guard. 

Also seen here, the Pyramid Extenda Fenda EXTRA is a customer feedback-based design that offers much-needed protection for the exposed painted surface of the front engine casing, exhaust downpipes and oxygen sensors.

It adds an impressive 250 mm additional length to the front mudguard and is shaped to channel as much water, grit, mud and other debris away from the bike as possible. 

Also made from tough and flexible ABS, it mounts to the front brake calipers using two powder-coated steel brackets and fixes to the original guard with Pyramid’s specially sourced 'Stick Fit Pads' - no drilling required. 

PYRAMID MOTORCYCLE ACCESSORIES

www.pyramidmoto.co.uk

Unit Garage

Plug and play fork cartridges in three versions

Available through Unit Garage in Italy, these new front fork cartridges are mounted without any modification to the original fork - a fully reversible 'plug and play' install in three versions for the BMW R nineT Urban GS and Scrambler.

"The standard suspensions of the nineT models are rather basic. We studied and tested a series of possibilities to overcome this problem and improve suspension performance and comfort - it was a long job.

High version

"But the result surprised us - with this simple change the bike changes character and becomes much more fun and usable on any type of route. It allows riders to have customised suspensions and greatly improved driving comfort.

Low version

"The pair of cartridges with hydraulic adjustment for the original fork, developed to our specifications, have been equipped with a sophisticated hydraulic system that guarantees exceptional performance".

Standard height

Features include pistons with increased oil passages, adjustable in compression and extension; the complete kit includes springs. The wheelbase is 830 mm with 155 mm stroke - it is advisable to reduce the removal of the fork from the plates by 10 mm.

The high version is 830/790 mm, the low version is 790/765 mm, and the standard version is 790 mm on both sides.

UNIT GARAGE

www.unitgarage.com

Airoh

Airoh feature-rich Spark 2 full-face

Described as a "new full-face helmet with bold lines that no longer requires riders to choose between comfort and performance", Airoh says that its Comms Ready Spark 2 is an uncompromising "have it all" option that combines "the best technologies, increased riding pleasure and best-in-class safety and protection".

Featuring an advanced, cutting-edge, wind tunnel developed ventilation system, "sharp lines and captivating graphics", the ECE 2206 approved Spark 2 is made in two thermoplastic HRT shell sizes for optimal fit and 'creature comforts' that make it a genuine year-round on-roader.
Incorporated Airoh safety systems include its ASN (Airoh Sliding Net), made up of a specific 3D fabric structure that reduces the forces transmitted to the head in the case of impact, and AEFR (Airoh Emergency Fast Release) to allow quick emergency cheek pad removal.

The hypoallergenic, removable and washable inner lining is made with high quality fabrics, such as innovative Coolmax superior performance technical textiles with 2DRY 'Microsense' sanitised treatments that "guarantee optimised comfort and maximum breathability".

"The extra-wide, UV and scratch resistant, anti-fog position lock system visor gives a large field of vision and is supplied with a Pinlock 70 Max Vision lens and features an ATVR (Airoh Tool-less Visor Removal) integrated sun visor".

The weight starts from 1,590 g (+/- 50 g). Additional features include micrometric closure, adjustable chin guard and upper vents, side spoilers, rear spoiler and extractors and double length Stop Wind.

LOCATELLI S.P.A.
www.airoh.com