MV Agusta

MV Agusta emerges from KTM shadow

In a release at the end of January 2025, MV Agusta confirmed that Art of Mobility S.A., a company controlled by the Sardarov family, will regain full control of the MV Agusta Group, officially marking its separation from KTM. The Sardarovs were the prior owners of MV Agusta, before KTM/PIERER Mobility took a controlling ownership position.

"After a successful year for MV Agusta, the financial situation that recently unfolded at PIERER Mobility AG could have significantly impacted the Italian brand's operations. This strategic agreement ensures that MV Agusta remains completely uninvolved in KTM's ongoing financial restructuring process, allowing the company to continue its positive growth path. 

"Over the past 18 months, MV Agusta has strengthened its financial stability under a fully revitalised management team. In 2024, the company sold 4,000 motorcycles, achieving an annual growth rate of 116% compared to 2023, with the 2023 sales total already matched by July 2024. The year also marked MV Agusta's best ever in parts sales terms, with a 99% availability rate covering models produced up to seven years ago."

With this move, the company says it also aims to safeguard its network of suppliers and dealers, shielding them from any potential financial disruptions, keeping them from being affected by KTM's restructuring process, and reinforcing MV Agusta's stability and commitment to its stakeholders.

"As for MV Agusta's global sales network, all 219 active sales points, including 41 service points, will continue business as usual, with the total number expected to reach 270 this year. Additionally, 20 non-European importers are already part of the distribution network. MV Agusta's business partners have played a crucial role in the company's 2024 achievements, and they will continue to be key contributors to the brand's future growth."

The company went on to say that it has "everything in place to continue its positive expansion and to keep delivering on its commitments. MV Agusta's operations remain fully independent, with Varese proudly continuing to serve as the central hub for all key activities, including product development, production, sales, marketing, and after-sales services. 

"The development of next generation of motorcycles is progressing as planned, paving the way for a renewed, innovative, exclusive range and as always focused on celebrating its famous claim 'Motorcycle Art'.

Timur Sardarov – CEO of Art of Mobility S.A. said: "This is a moment of pride for all of us at MV Agusta. Regaining full control of the company means we are now stronger and more focused than ever on delivering excellence. 

"Over the past two years, the company has significantly strengthened its processes, systems, and workforce. These structural changes are the foundation of the extraordinary results achieved in 2024 and will continue to drive our success in the years to come. I have full confidence in our leadership team, whose vision, combined with the dedication and professionalism of our renewed dealer network, will take MV Agusta to new heights. 

"My commitment, and that of my family, is to be a vital force for the Varese team, the region, and all our partners."

For its part, Pierer Mobility AG/KTM stated that it had sold all its shares back to the minority shareholder Art of Mobility S.A. for an enterprise value in the mid double-digit million euro range. 

That is the 51.1% shareholding that it increased its original 25.1% stake to in spring 2024 - less than a year ago. It has acquired that original 25.1% stake in November 2022.

www.mvagusta.com

Aprilia

Aprilia Tuono 457 departs from tradition

By Ben Purvis

In prime position to capitalise on the growing sales of sub-500 cc bikes Aprilia's new Tuono 457 could be the most important new model added to the brand's 2025 range - and what's more, it's better-looking than anything to carry the Tuono badge in the past.

While the addition of a Tuono model based on the RS457 sports bike doesn't come as a surprise - Aprilia always tends to offer naked versions of its sports bike models - the formula has now been changed. 

Every previous Tuono, regardless of capacity and going right back to the first, RSV Mille-based machine more than 20 years ago, has used a fixed front fairing and the same rear bodywork as the sports bike it's based on, often resulting in a slightly awkward look. It's a traditional 'streetfighter' formula, but the combination of high, wide bars and a fixed headlight in a cut-down nose means other Tuonos have often looked unconvincing, with too much front overhang.

For the Tuono 457, that problem is gone as Aprilia has given the bike entirely bespoke bodywork rather than borrowing as much as possible from the RS457. There's a new tail and seat unit, a new fuel tank, new radiator cowl panels and most importantly a headlight and front cowl that's mounted on the forks to turn with the bars. The result is a much more balanced, attractive style than other Tuonos, even though the triple headlight setup with a spoiler underneath them intentionally draws parallels to the 2006 Tuono 1000 R.

Under the all-new skin lie the same mechanical parts as the RS457, with an identical 35kW parallel twin engine, aluminium half-chassis and 41mm inverted forks, single front brake disc with ByBre caliper, and alloy swingarm and monoshock rear. Max power comes at 9,400 rpm and maximum torque of 43.5 Nm at 6,700 rpm, while the bike weighs an impressive 159 kg dry - likely putting it right on the 175 kg minimum weight allowed with the 35 kW power under A2 licence rules when weighed wet with all fluids and a full tank of fuel.

Aprilia 660 twins updated

The bikes powered by Aprilia's 660cc parallel twin engine - the RS660, Tuono 660 and Tuareg 660 - have all been updated for 2025 with engine changes to meet the latest Euro5+ regulations. 

On the RS660 and Tuono 660, there's a power increase from 100 hp to 105 hp, thanks to larger 52 mm throttle bodies that replace the previous 48 mm versions. The Tuareg 660, which is joined for 2025 by a more extreme Tuareg 660 Rally variant, also gets the bigger throttles but retains the same 80 hp as previous models.

The RS660 gets additional updates including a new fairing with redesigned side panels and a nose that now incorporates a front spoiler and winglets, and Aprilia has added an RS660 Factory model to the range that includes Ohlins NIX30 forks and an Ohlins STX36 shock.

The Tuono 660 Factory is revised for 2025 to get the same Ohlins components, superseding the Kayaba forks and Sachs shock of the previous generation, and all the RS and Tuono 660 models get a new 5-inch TFT dashboard and launch control added to the rider assists.

More power for RSV4

Aprilia claims that the 2025 RSV4 and RSV4 Factory are the most powerful standard production bikes the world has ever seen thanks to revisions that see their outputs hiked to a remarkable 220 hp in showroom form.

Like the related 660 cc twins in the Tuono, RS and Tuareg 660 models, the RSV4's 1,099 cc V4 gets 52mm throttles instead of the previous 48mm units, as well as a revised exhaust and repositioned catalytic converter to meet Euro5+ rules around emissions monitoring.

Visually, the 2025 RSV4 models get revised bodywork with MotoGP-style winglets on the front, new side panels, and a redesigned tail, claiming 6% less drag than before and an 8% reduction in the tendency to wheelie. The higher-spec RSV4 Factory, with its Ohlins semi-active electronic suspension, also gets the ability to set traction control and wheelie control modes corner-by-corner for track use, harnessing GPS to monitor where the bike is on the circuit. 

Tuono V4 uprated with 1099cc V44

For 2025 the naked Aprilia Tuono V4 drops the previous 1,077 cc version of the V4 engine in favour of the same 1,099 cc capacity of the faired RSV4. 

That comes with a power increase to 180 hp, plus revisions to the styling that once again add dual-layer winglets that one claimed to add 2.5k g of downforce at 250 km/h, plus new side panels and radiator cowls. Meanwhile the bellypan of the previous model has been removed, giving the updated Tuonos a more genuinely naked style for 2025.

CFMOTO

New V4 engine previews CFMOTO's ambitious future By Ben Purvis

Rumours of a 1,000 cc V4 superbike from China's CFMOTO have swirled for the last couple of years and at EICMA the company confirmed those plans by unveiling the engine that will power it into the top echelon alongside the best that Europe and Japan can offer.

The plan is to have a competitive machine to enter WSBK, which means a street-legal superbike is needed, and alongside the new engine - dubbed V.04 and sub-headed 'Core of Speed' - CFMOTO showed a stylised sculpture of that bike, branding it 'Master of Speed.'

The engine is understood to have been under test in China for at least a year already. It's a 90-degree V4, measuring in at 1, 000 cc and featuring a conventional, modern design with DOHC cylinder heads, the inlet cams chain driven from the crank and then geared to the exhaust cams. Those camshafts operate finger-followers to the conventionally sprung valves.

Like the Ducati Panigale V4, the CFMOTO V.04 engine uses a reverse-rotating crankshaft to cut down on the bike's gyroscopic forces, making it quicker to turn into corners, as well as better resisting the tendency to wheelie. The exhaust ports are oval, and the intakes feature secondary fuel injectors spraying straight into the open mouths of the intake funnels.

The throttles themselves are ride-by-wire electronic units, as you'd expect on a modern superbike, and CFMOTO claims a peak power of 209 hp (156 kW) at 14,500 rpm, building on a maximum torque of 114 Nm at 12,500 rpm. 

'450' electric CFMOTO motocross bike previewed

As electric motorcycles continue to struggle to gain a substantial foothold on the sales charts a growing number of companies have spotted that motocross is perhaps the ideal proving ground for the technology - allowing them to demonstrate their capabilities in terms of performance without highlighting the shortcomings when it comes to range.

In motocross, races are short and a combination of torque and traction are more important that flat-out pace, playing directly into the areas where electric powertrains excel and meaning they don't have to be hamstrung with big, heavy batteries to give a viable real-world range. CFMOTO's CF-X concept - which, like the V4, isdestined for production in the near future - illustrates those advantages and is intended to have performance on a par with 450 cc motorcross machines.

The electrical system is more advanced than most, with 400V architecture that could open the door to rapid charging. While CFMOTO hasn't revealed the battery size, it's likely to be quite small, as the bike's all-in weight is a competitive 125 kg. That powertrain is liquid cooled, but thanks to the different cooling requirements of an EV, the radiator is positioned under the rider's seat where it's well protected from damage.

675NK triple joins 675SR-R sports bike

CFMOTO's 675SR-R - its first three-cylinder machine and a rival to the likes of Triumph's Daytona 660 - was launched in the USA and China a few months ago and made its European debut at EICMA alongside a new spin-off version in the form of the naked 675NK roadster.

It's not unexpected. CFMOTO has 'NK' versions of all its sports bikes, and the current market suggests that a three-cylinder roadster like the 675NK will sell in larger numbers than the 675SR-R. The bike's specifications are similarly within expectations, with virtually every major component shared with the 675SR-R. 

That means a 675 cc triple with a 72mm bore and 55.2 mm stroke putting out 66 kW (88.5 hp) at 11,000 rpm and 68 Nm at 8,250 rpm - exactly matching the Euro-spec 675SR-R. It sits in the same steel tube frame, ahead of a cast aluminium swingarm, and the two bikes even share an identical kerb weight of 189 kg. 

Both use 41mm, fully-adjustable USD forks from KYB and a rear monoshock that can be tweaked for rebound and preload, plus 300 mm discs gripped by J.Juan four-piston calipers, harnessed to ABS. 

CFMOTO 125NK fills a vital gap in the range

A year ago CFMOTO showed a concept version of its 125NK roadster and now the production model that closely follows the style of that 2023 show bike has been launched.

The concept's single-sided swingarm is gone, as is the carbon-fibre rear wheel shroud and the front brake cooling ducts, but the overall shape is retained - even if the addition of mirrors and a slightly larger dashboard means the stance isn't as nose-down as the concept's.

The bike fills a vital and surprising gap in CFMOTO's range, which until now has lacked a 125 cc learner-legal machine.

Power comes from a 124.2 cc single, with a 58 mm bore and 47 mm stroke and a peak of 10.6 kW (14.2 hp) at 10,500rpm - just under the 11 kW legal maximum for learners. Max torque is 10.2 Nm at 8,500 rpm, making for numbers that are in line with expectations in the class. The engine itself is a DOHC, liquid-cooled single, designed to meet the latest Euro5+ emissions rules.

CFMOTO 800MT-X challenges KTM

Another bike to make the transition from concept to showroom is the CFMOTO 800MT-X - shown at EICMA 2023 as the MT-X Concept and now launched as a full production model looking all but identical to that 2023 version.

Like the more road-biased 800MT, the 800MT-X uses the 799 cc LC8c parallel twin engine from KTM's 790 Adventure and 790 Duke models, which are manufactured by the CFMOTO/KTM joint venture in China. It's mounted in a frame that's also very KTM-like, if not identical to the chassis of the 790 Adventure, and unlike the 800MT, the MT-X even uses the same low-slung, side-mounted fuel tanks that are a signature of KTM's parallel twin adventure models.

Where the CFMOTO strays from the KTM it's based on is the suspension - KYB instead of WP components are used, with 48mm inverted forks and a rear monoshock, both fully adjustable and offering 230 mm of travel - and the styling, which is in the mould of CFMOTO's other adventure models. In line with the bike's serious off-road intentions, the front wheel is 21 inches and the rear is 18 inches in diameter.

Peak power is 67kW (90hp) at 8,250rpm, with 86Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, and with its 22.5 litre tanks filled the bike weighs in at 220 kg. An extra 8-litre auxiliary tank is optional.

The high equipment level includes cornering ABS and traction control, along with a portrait-oriented, 7-inch TFT dash and full LED lighting. 

Honda

All Change at the Next Stop?

The planned merger between Honda and Nissan - Japan’s second and third largest auto makers after Toyota - would be the largest merger between carmakers since that of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group in 2021. 

Some commentators are pointing to it having the potential to mean enhanced distribution opportunities for Honda motorcycles. 

This is just the latest in a series of Japanese corporate plays that have seen their 'majors' starting to work with once fierce rivals to produce strategic collaborations and consolidations. 

This has already been seen in the motorcycle industry where issues such as hydrogen power, swappable batteries and connectivity have seen the 'Big Four' collaborate as they seek a shared critical mass.

In 2016 Honda and Yamaha began discussions toward a possible business alliance in the Japanese Class-1 category motorcycle market to address various challenges, including compliance with increasingly stringent safety standards and emissions regulations, as well as the pursuit of electrification. 

The key areas of discussion included supplying 50 cc scooter models as an OEM, joint development/OEM supply of next-generation 50 cc business scooter models, and collaboration toward the popularization of electric motorcycles in the Class-1 category. 

Based on that discussion, in March 2018, Honda began supplying 50 cc scooter models to Yamaha as an OEM. In the second half of 2024 it was announced that they had reached an agreement for Honda to supply Yamaha with electric motorcycle models for the Japanese market, based on the Honda 'EM1 e:' and 'BENLY e: I' Class-1 category models, as an original equipment manufacturer. 

Despite an aborted 2004 plan to 'soft-merge' much of their motorcycle business interests, Kawasaki and Suzuki have been sharing common parts for competitive platforms since 2014. 

Although 2005 saw a plan floated for Kawaski and Suzuki to merge ultimately came to nothing, that had been seen as an extension of a 2001 collaboration on shared componentry for compatible platforms. That partnership was largely aimed at dirt bikes, but the two still do share compatible common parts of in some model families - they have been doing so with GSXR and ZZR components for years and do so in some of their ATV/Quad models too.

Honda's deal with Hitachi to bring Showa Suspension, Keihin and Nissan all under common shared ownership (Hitachi Astemo) suggests an interesting, and as far as can be seen so far, viable model for future 'quasi mergers'.

In an international motorcycle industry that could see considerable change to the established Japanese OEM landscape in the coming years, don't be surprised to see significant changes in the traditional brand, market and ownership footprints of the 'Big Four'.

Don't be surprised either to see Chinse motorcycle and automotive manufacturers start to flex their considerable fiscal muscles beyond the acquisition of western legacy brands. They will likely start to take ownership positions (controlling and otherwise) in European and even American majors. Rumours are currently swirling about both KTM and Harley-Davidson, and regardless of whether or not anything comes involving either of those two, it's not difficult to see plenty of other such developments on the horizon.

Moto Morini

Moto Morini X-Cape 750 coming soon 

By Ben Purvis

Moto Morini was one of the surprises of last year's EICMA when it unveiled an array of bikes including two new 750 cc V-twin models - the Corsaro roadster and Corsaro Sport sports bike. Now the same new engine is set to make its way into an adventure model that's likely to be called the X-Cape 750.

Morini already makes a smaller parallel twin X-Cape 650, using a CFMoto-based engine and is due to add the larger X-Cape 1200 to its range, having already shown that bike last year. It uses a version of Moto Morini's own 1,187 cc Bialbero CorsaCorta V-twin, which was also shown at EICMA in 2023. 

With adventure bikes still topping sales charts all over Europe, the idea of an X-Cape 750 based around the new Corsaro's engine makes a lot of sense as a middle point between the two existing models.

Just such a bike has appeared in design registrations filed by Moto Morini, as you see here, and it's instantly apparent that the styling is a substantial step forward compared to the existing X-Cape machines. Where the 650 and 1200 models share a similar style, the new bike takes its cues from the Corsaro and Corsaro Sport and looks like a more modern machine altogether. 

"designs show new V-twin adventure bike"

It's not just the engine that comes from the Corsaro models, as the frame - a combination of an alloy casting at the front and steel trellis towards the rear - is also straight from the Corsaro bikes, and despite the high stance and long forks, the wheels are 17 inches at each end, showing it's a street-oriented bike rather than a real off-roader.

The front end styling is particularly distinctive, with two large air intakes below a small pair of headlights. Above them sit striped running lights, with two illuminated lines on each side, a cue that's shared with the Corsaro and Corsaro Sport.

The fairing side panels are dual-layered, with an outer section that 'floats' above the inner radiator cowls, and there's a similar winglet-style panel higher up on each side of the windscreen. 

Performance-wise, the Corsaro engine makes 96 hp, so with the right price, the X-Cape 750 will sit between the 60 hp X-Cape 650 and the 125 hp X-Cape 1200 without stealing sales from either model.

BAAS Bike Parts

BAAS StartSystem on-board socket

This new kit from electronic accessory specialist BAAS Bike Parts (Abstatt, Germany) includes the BS11 STARTSYSTEM on board socket for connection of a wide range of accessories such as booster cables, chargers and electronic devices.

It is splash waterproof with a folding cover and features a 0.65 m/6 mm2 for jumpstarts. The BAAS BS12 STARTSYSTEM booster cable has small, fully insulated clamps to take simple and fast jumpstarts for motorbikes and quads - it is 160 cm long with flexible 6mm2 copper cable.

Further optional system accessories include the BAAS BS20 system plug and BS22 adaptor with system plug to cigar socket.

Seen in IDN last year the BAAS USB twin socket converts the input voltage of 12/24V on-board electrical systems to the USB standard 5V. It has two USB-C output sockets and together offers a max. charging power of 3.6A QC quickcharge.

USB twin socket

BAAS BIKE PARTS

www.baas-parts.de

MG Biketec

KTM 990 Duke from 2024

Austrian custom parts specialist MG Biketec has had a busy year already, demonstrating the breadth of its market coverage, releasing new product application programmes for a number of new models - including the Ducati Supersport 950, Husqvarna Norden, Yamaha MT-09, Kawasaki Eliminator 500, Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC/XE/X and Speed 400, and several Suzuki models such as the GXS-S 125, 8R and V-Strom 800.

Seen here for the KTM 990 Duke, MG Biketec has managed to further improve the look by developing a plug and play compact and lightweight, high-strength CNC-machined aluminium licence plate holder that allows the installation of KTM indicators/taillights and KTM licence plate lighting. The angle of the licence plate holder can be adjusted continuously from 30° in accordance with regulations.

Ergonomics play an important role in the performance and handling of any motorcycle, so MG Biketec's plug and play footrest system is a high rigidity, good grip, ultra-light and completely 7075 and 6082 aluminium CNC-machined design, adjustable in 18 positions, up to 45 mm backwards, 10 mm downwards and 20 mm upwards. Brake and gearshift pegs are each adjustable by 10 mm.

Also available are MG Biketec tail tidy and mounting brackets for the KTM indicator/taillight units and KTM licence plate light, a rearset upgrade based on its race-winning WES 24Hr design that is fully ergonomically adjustable and extremely rigid, MG Biketec mirror set, race-proven polyamide PA6 front fork protection with aluminium and stainless steel hardware, wire-lock-ready oil filler caps, front wheel spacers, chain tensioners in high-strength 7075 aluminium that have 20% more material at the break point on the left side than the original part, and MG Biketec's shift reversal kit.

All MG Biketec products are designed, manufactured and assembled in Austria and backed by a lifetime warranty.

MG BIKETEC GMBH

www.mg-biketec.com

Hornig

BMW F900GS conversion by Hornig

German BMW parts and accessory specialist Hornig has turned its attention to the versatile, mid-range F900GS 'multi-role capable' touring and adventure hybrid.

Featured Hornig product designs (model-specific and universals) include handlebar risers which raise the handlebars by 25 mm, mirror extensions that are said to significantly improve the rear view, and air deflectors mounted behind the handguards to provide additional protection against wind and weather. 

The Quiklox cradle, together with the compatible smartphone support, ensures ergonomic smartphone positioning, especially when being used for navigation, and Hornig says it has "the perfect solution for protecting the TFT display and ensuring clear visibility in form of our display protection foil. This is complemented by our glare protection for the connectivity combo instrument".

In terms of seat comfort, the original seat of the F900GS is replaced by Hornig's upholstered variant. The crash bars, fork crash protectors and rear swingarm crash protectors all collectively act as a damage protection system.

"Our black anodised oil filler plug can be opened with a Torx key and combines safety with visual charm. The anodised shift lever extension provides a secure grip due to its larger surface area. The side stand foot enlargement in combination with our heightening side stand extension guarantees a secure stand for the motorcycle on all surfaces. 

"The main stand seen on our F900GS is invaluable for tasks such as oil changes. Various GIVI tank bags can be attached to the tank bag mounting. The licence plate bracket made of stainless steel is adjustable.

"The individual touch of our F900GS conversion is highlighted not only by the visual enhancements of the centre cap top yoke with emblem and the frame covers, but also by the tank pad made of 3M carbon film, which prevents unsightly scratches, and, of course, the custom film-coating.

MOTORCYCLE PARTS HORNIG 

www.motorcycleparts-hornig.com

SC-Project

SC-Project - two new BMW F 900 GS exhaust systems

It has been a busy few months for Cassinetta di Lugagnano (Milan) based SC-Project, with new fitments for several of the 2024 models - such as for the Kawasaki ZX-4R and 6R Ninjas, the Moto Guzzi Stelvio, the Ducati Hypermotard 698, Honda's popular CRF100L Africa Twin and, as seen here, the BMW F 900 GS.

The more recent iterations of the BMW F 900 GS have become lighter, more muscular and more elegant - with flawless handling. For those who want to save kilos, increase power and pressure and sharpen the sound, SC-Project now offers two new slip-on rear silencers: the Rally Raid, which is approved for road traffic and complies with the new Euro 5+, and the new MX racing rear silencer, which may only be used on closed tracks.

MX racing rear silencer

Like all SC-Project products, both rear silencers are entirely manufactured in Italy. In order to achieve a low weight, high-quality titanium is used in the production. State-of-the-art production methods enable exacting standards, resulting in a range of exhausts that are recognised for the extreme robustness and durability, with TIG welding ensuring the high quality and maximum load-bearing capacity of the weld seams. CNC machines ensure precise components with the tightest tolerances, and autoclaves enable optimal thermal processing of the high-quality carbon fibre end caps used in the MX racing rear silencer.

The Rally Raid gives the BMW twin an increase in torque of around 2.6 Nm at 4,000 rpm and a power increase of around 1.6 hp at 4,000 rpm. These optimisations are associated with improved power delivery, a weight saving of more than 30% compared to the original exhaust "and an impressive sound experience" that is fully compliant with Euro 5+.

Rally Raid

Also new, the MX racing rear silencer features a carbon fibre end cap and provides an increase in torque of around 3.8 Nm at 4,000 rpm and an increase in power of around 2.4 hp at 4,000 rpm. In addition to the optimised power delivery and a remarkable weight reduction of more than 35% compared to the OEM rear silencer, "with a deep sound that is downright addictive".

Both slip-on rear silencers will be available in titanium and are an 'easy install' as no engine remapping is required.

SC-PROJECT

www.sc-project.com

Goodyear

Goodyear Sells Dunlop Tire Brand to Japan's Sumitomo Rubber Industries

Akron, Ohio based Goodyear Tire & Rubber has announced a definitive agreement to sell the Dunlop brand to Japanese conglomerate Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) in a complex deal that is said to be worth initial gross cash proceeds of $701m plus a matrix of brand and segment cross licensing agreements and income streams.

The deal comprises trademarks and intangible assets necessary for operations of the brand business in Europe, North America and Oceania for consumer, commercial and other specialty tires; together with certain associated intellectual property. This is far from being SRI and Goodyear's first dealings involving the Dunlop brand.

Indeed, the two have a complex and not always harmonious history where Dunlop is concerned. The Sumitomo portfolio of tire brands already includes Dunlop (in certain regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America), with SRO also manufacturing and selling sells sport equipment under the Dunlop Sport brand.

The company traces its origins to 1909, when the Sumitomo Group made an investment in Dunlop Japan, the newly formed Japanese subsidiary of the then British company Dunlop Rubber. Over the years Sumitomo and Dunlop developed a close business relationship, and in 1963 the Sumitomo Group acquired control of Dunlop Japan and renamed it Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd.

From the Goodyear perspective, the sale of the Dunlop Brand follows a previously announced strategic review of the brand in connection with their 'Goodyear Forward' transformation plan. SRI is paying Goodyear for the transfer of the Dunlop Brand across the relevant geographies and the purchase of Dunlop tire inventory. The transaction also provides for a complex matrix of additional ongoing 'offtake', licensing and other balance sheet driven arrangements.

"This is another important milestone as we continue to execute against our 'Goodyear Forward' transformation plan," said Mark Stewart, Goodyear Chief Executive Officer and President. "We are optimizing our portfolio and reducing leverage [meaning debt] to drive sustainable and substantial shareholder value creation. Not only does the transaction deliver significant value for our shareholders, it better positions Goodyear to enhance our focus on the growth of our core brands."

It is less than four years since Goodyear acquired its smaller Ohio rival Cooper Tire & Rubber. With that acquisition Goodyear found itself owning Avon Tyres, the iconic and then 120 year-old British manufacturer. Avon's historic UK factory was shuttered at the end of 2023 and this announcement makes no mention as to whether Goodyear still sees a role for the Avon brand of motorcycle tires in its transformation plan.

The announcement does though cite Dunlop's motorcycle tire business as a segment that Goodyear appears intent on retaining, one way of another. Only $526m of the $701m that SRI is to pay to Goodyear is actually for the Dunlop Brand and certain associated intellectual property; the balance is largely brand transition activity and related arrangements, including around $70m for existing Dunlop consumer tire inventory at an agreed markup. 

Goodyear will continue to manufacture, sell and distribute Dunlop branded consumer tires in Europe, at least through the end of 2025, and will pay a royalty to SRI but retain all profits from these sales. 

Following the completion of the transmission agreement, Goodyear will supply certain Dunlop branded tires to SRI in Europe for a five-year period - subject to a minimum of 4.5 million tires per year being purchased for the five-year term, on a take-or-pay basis.

The collateral details and fine print surrounding this complex deal between Goodyear and SRI appears to suggest a degree of distrust that likely is still a legacy of the collapse in relations between the two seen in 2015.

In 1997, SRI and Goodyear joint ventured manufacturing tires for each other's markets, including Dunlop branded tires. As part of the agreement, Goodyear acquired 75% interests in Dunlop Tyres, the UK company which Sumitomo had formed, and in Dunlop Tire Corporation. Goodyear and SRI also made investments in each other.

On 14 February 2014, Goodyear announced its intention to dissolve its partnership with SRI due to alleged "anticompetitive conduct". The JV ended in 2015 with the Dunlop brand being shared between the two companies ever since.

Goodyear will license back the Dunlop trademarks from SRI for commercial (truck) tires in Europe on a long-term basis, subject to a royalty on sales. 

Dunlop consumer tire sales totaled $532m in 2023. Dunlop commercial tire sales totaled $201m in the same period. Other specialty Dunlop tire sales (excluding motorcycle) totaled $22m.

Goodyear will retain its rights to the Dunlop trademarks for its motorcycle tire businesses in Europe and Oceania. SRI will hold rights to the Dunlop brand for new motorcycles (and cars) made by Japanese manufacturers. Other SRI tire brands include Falken and Ohtsu.

www.goodyear.com

BMW

BMW reveals upcoming F 450 GSBMW reveals upcoming F 450 GS 

By Ben Purvis

Ignore the fact that BMW calls this the Concept F 450 GS - a nearly identical production model is destined for showrooms in 2025 and it shows BMW making a rapid response to changing market conditions that could see the all-conquering R-series GS models toppled from their best-selling spots in the sales charts.

For the last couple of decades R-series GS models have ruled sales charts in important European markets but across the globe there's a trend towards much smaller, sub-500cc bikes. That's down to increasing affluence in emerging markets, seeing customers trade up from small singles to mid-size machines, at the same time as aging rider demographics in established markets seeing customers swap their big bikes for smaller and more easily handled machines. And that's where the F 450 GS  aims to succeed. 

The Concept F 450 GS  it indicates that BMW has an entire range of 450 cc parallel twin models in the pipeline, set to plug a longstanding gap in the company's range between the G 310 single-cylinder bikes and the much larger F 800 and F 900 twins.

With 35kW, the F 450 GS is aimed at A2 licence holders, but it's also likely to appeal to the sort of aging customer that's currently moving from big adventure bikes to machines like the Triumph Scrambler 400 X and Royal Enfield's Himalayan 450. 

The engine is a completely new parallel twin, bolted to a steel tube frame with a cast alloy swingarm, with inverted forks and an adjustable monoshock. A bolt-on subframe suggests the same basic chassis could be adapted to suit a wide variety of bikes

With 35 kW, the bike can't weigh less than 175 kg while complying with A2 power-to-weight rules of 0.2 kW per kg, but BMW expects it to be close to that minimum. On board there's a large, 6.5-inch TFT dash with smartphone connectivity. Once the F 450 GS  is in production, it will be a relatively small leap to create additional variants like an F 450 R or an F 450 XR.

BMW superbikes and super nakeds revised for 2025

After 15 years of trying, BMW has finally hit the WSB jackpot in 2024 with BMW M 1000 RR rider Toprak Razgatlioglu snatching the rider's title even though Ducati managed to retain the constructors' crown. In 2025 it's going to be easier to retain that championship because the M 1000 RR has been given substantial improvements - as have the S 1000 RR, M 1000 R and S 1000 R.

The M 1000 RR's improvements start with a  4kW power boost, taking it to 160 kW, via a higher compression ratio, new oval intake and exhaust ports, larger 52 mm throttle bodies instead of the previous 48 mm units and completely redesigned pistons, combustion chambers and valves - changes that indicate improvements in racing form could be even greater than those experienced by the bike in its road-going state. On the outside, the M 1000 RR gets a new front fairing shape and larger winglets that increase downforce from 22.6 kg to 30 kg at 300 km/h. 

A new short-action throttle is added, too, along with revised electronics that add even more rider assistance systems including a slide control function and a brake slide assist feature.

The more affordable S 1000 RR superbike also gets the short-action throttle for 2025, along with engine tweaks to meet Euro5+ without affecting its 154 kW output. Again, it gets new, larger wings, upping downforce from 17.1 kg to 23.1 kg at 300 km/h, plus new brake cooling ducts.

Both the M 1000 R and S 1000 R roadsters are revised with a new-look front end that drops the single headlight of the previous models in favour of two, smaller lamps. The M 1000 R has the same engine as the S 1000 RR superbike, with 154 kW, while the S 1000 R has a less powerful version, lacking the ShiftCam variable valve timing and lift system used on its sister models, but for 2025 its peak power rises from 121 kW to 125 kW thanks to revised intake ports and a new ECU map.

Yamaha

Yamaha updates Ténéré 700 for 2025

By Ben Purvis

Yamaha's Ténéré 700 is already a frontrunner in the middleweight adventure class and for 2025 it gets the biggest update we've seen yet including a rationalised range to remove confusion around the previous lineup.

In 2024 there were six different Ténéré 700 models - the base Ténéré, the Ténéré Explore, Ténéré Extreme, Ténéré World Raid and Ténéré World Rally. While the 'World' models with their larger fuel tank remain unaltered at the moment, the Explore and Extreme are discontinued for 2025, and instead there's the simple choice of the base Ténéré or a new Ténéré Rally.

Previously, despite its name, the Explore was actually a low-seat version. That now simply becomes an option for the standard Ténéré. That means the Ténéré Rally replaces the Ténéré Extreme as the more serious offroad version of the bike.

Both 2025 variants get the same engine changes, notably including the adoption of a ride-by-wire throttle system that means you gain a choice of different throttle maps - 'Sport' or 'Explorer' - as well as switchable traction control. Peak power and torque are unchanged at 54 kW and 68 Nm but Yamaha claims better low-end response. 

Frame alterations are limited to additional strengthening in a few areas, while the suspension is upgraded to make the standard Ténéré's 43mm forks and rear shock fully adjustable. The Rally model, meanwhile, gets 20 mm longer suspension travel, matching the 230mm front and 210 mm rear of the previous Ténéré Extreme.

Tracer 9 gets Y-AMT 

The new Y-AMT semi-automatic transmission is spreading rapidly though Yamaha's range - having been launched earlier this year on the MT-09 - and the Tracer sports-tourer is probably the most logical application of the system so far.

It's part of a wide-ranging set of improvements for 2025 including impressive technology upgrades on the range-topping GT and GT+ variants.

The range is set up so the standard Tracer 9 is the most basic version, keeping the toys and tech to the minimum, so it can't be had with the Y-AMT box. The GT model has the option of either manual or Y-AMT versions, while the GT+ is available only in Y-AMT semi-auto form, and all GT variants benefit from semi-active electric suspension and, for the first time on any motorcycle, an LED matrix headlight.

New chassis and tech for 2025 MT-07

It's been a decade since Yamaha's MT-07 shook up the market for affordable middleweights with a combination of ability and price that was hard to match. For 2025 it's had the biggest update since its launch with a complete redesign including a new chassis and improved engine as well as the addition of a semi-auto transmission option as Yamaha expands its Y-AMT gearbox technology that was adopted by the MT-09 earlier this year.

The engine changes match those on the Ténéré, which uses the same 'CP2' twin, adding ride-by-wire throttles that open the door to new features including multiple riding modes, switchable traction control and different throttle maps. 

The engine bolts to a completely new frame, claimed to be 12-13% more rigid than the last version and no heavier than before, weighing just 14.8 kg. At the back there's a new swingarm, and like the larger MT-09 the MT-07 now uses Yamaha's patented Spinforged wheels, reducing their weight. The front suspension, previously built around conventional forks, is swapped for inverted forks with new triple clamps to match and four-piston radial brake calipers.   to match and four-piston radial brake calipers. 

Oxford Products

NOMAD - 'Go everywhere, go anywhere' modular lightweight luggage

Award-winning British distributor and own brand accessory specialist Oxford Products has introduced a versatile new range of modular lightweight luggage - "designed in a way that allows riders to build a luggage system personalised for their riding use".

Hitting the sweet spot of the current trend for versatile luggage solutions, the NOMAD range starts with selection of the appropriate harness for the bike - then riders can choose from a range of bags, packs and pouches, attaching them however best suits their ride.

NOMAD: inexpensive, versatile, modular, lightweight luggage

Based on the MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) load-bearing specification that was originally conceived as a versatile and multi-purpose concept for military and emergency responder applications, the Oxford NOMAD range allows an unlimited number of attachments and accessories to be added and removed to the luggage system - in any combination and secured in a way that is convenient to the user.

The chosen luggage items are securely attached to each other by a user-friendly PALS (Pouch Ladder Attachment System) - a webbing grid made of 600D polyester, that accessory straps are weaved through, creating a tight and secure fit.

Every product in the Oxford NOMAD range is fully adaptable with accessories that are designed to attach to both a harness and other accessories, allowing riders to fully customise a versatile luggage system that suits their requirements.

Because space and weight are at a premium while riding, the Oxford NOMAD range has been designed to be as light as possible, allowing the user to carry exactly what they require on their ride, commute or adventure.

Standard or XL Adventure harnesses are designed for either the saddle or tank, to mount accessories onto. The MOLLE-compatible Oxford NOMAD Adventure Harness is a universal saddle mounted base for attaching multiple luggage accessories, including larger luggage products. 

OXFORD PRODUCTS

www.oxfordproducts.com

GPR Tech

GPR Tech - Kawasaki Versys 650 side case range

Leveraging its ISO 14021 certified circular economy parameter compatible production technology, Italian exhaust specialist GPR Italia has successfully diversified into the luggage market, initially focused on hard cases for ADV style applications.

Designed in its 'ALPI-Tech' series and equipped with a specific luggage rack, these aluminium side cases are available in 38 plus 32 litre or 38 plus 38 litre capacity, in black or silver colour, and complete a range for the Versys 650 that includes a wide range of top case capacities from 26 to 55 litres. 

GPR ITALIA S.R.L

www.gprtechparts.com

Matris

Matris for the Yamaha XSR 900

Italian suspension specialist Matris has added to its applications list with a complete set of front and rear suspension options for the 2022 Yamaha XSR 900 naked vintage style bike.

At the front, Matris offers a full range of award-winning hydraulic, asymmetric quad-valve system cartridge kits - the 25 mm asymmetric "sealed and pressurised" F25SA, its top-of-the-range high-end cartridge; the 25 mm asymmetric "classic" quad valve F25R, its classic cartridge for race-track use, and the 20 mm asymmetric quad valve F20K - its "entry level" cartridge for sport use.

All are fully adjustable on compression, rebound and spring preload, and are 100% 'plug-and-play' fully reversible installs that replace all the stock front fork internals with no modifications required to the bike.

At the rear side, the offer includes its M46KF and M46KD shock series. Both are multi-adjustable and can be equipped with a knob-hydraulic spring preload unit for easy and fast setting changes.

As is usual with Matris suspension product designs, front and rear suspensions are available with different spring rates to allow the ride to be tuned for rider weight and use, with the rear shocks additionally available in the popular Matris 'Dark Version' with black spring.

Additional new set-up options from the Vicenza based manufacturer include for the 2023 Honda XL 750 Transalp, Suzuki GZX-8S and Ducati 800 Scrambler models, plus for the 2022 Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello.

MATRIS S.R.L.

www.matrisdampers.com

Dold Industries

More Ventura luggage options

Manufactured in New Zealand by Dold Industries, Ventura luggage is a versatile, inventory-friendly, system-based range of model-specific and universal mount luggage options.

The range includes hard top boxes and soft top luggage packs, panniers/side bags, tank bags and more - available for a huge range of makes and models.

With roots going back to the mid-1970s, the company now makes systems for nearly 3,000 models. The range is a versatile, ergonomic, modular and robust, easy-mount system that is secure and safe, versatile and durable.

The Ventura Bike-Pack system features a rack, packs and model-specific bracket designs - it really is that simple, and it really is that good. Ventura packs are made with Kodra fabric, a heavy-duty ballistic nylon material, and lined with a laminated, waterproof PVC backed material.

They are available as single components or bundled kits. Simple, robust, versatile and durable are the keywords here.

The central mounting component is the company's Lbracket, and, as with all the racks, they are made in mild steel tube and satin black powder-coat finished (or polished silver/chrome for Cruisers).

Recent and upcoming application additions include options for the Royal Enfield Himalayan, CFMoto 450MT, BMW F900 GS and Trophy, Honda XR150L, Suzuki GSX-S1000 GX and GX+ and V-Strom 250 SX.

DOLD INDUSTRIES

www.ventura-bike.com

MotoGP 2025

2025 MotoGP calendar

Dorna has released a provisional MotoGP race schedule for 2025, with 22 races planned in 18 countries on five continents - including the return of Brno in Czechia and the debut of Balaton Park in Hungary.

"With four long-haul events to begin the year and four to round it off, 2025 will be a balanced and well-paced season of competition for riders, teams and paddock personnel".

With new owners Liberty Media still attending to some of the details of its acquisition - not least needing to raise sufficient funds to be able to add MotoGP and WSBK to its F1 property - the deal is understood to still be subject to regulatory scrutiny.

No surprise then that, at this stage, Liberty Media have not yet pushed the button on its stated ambition of adding to the single U.S. MotoGP round that will be staged at the COTA circuit, at Austin, Texas, at the end of March.

There are four rounds slated for Spain (plus Portugal,) but even if you count San Marino, there are only two rounds planned for Italian circuits. Despite the fact that it is already an expensive and crowded schedule (some would say overcrowded), there are those who are saying that, given the importance of the Italian market and Italian sponsorship community (at rider, team and track levels), that too is a state of affairs that Liberty would be well advised to address.