Bajaj Mobility AG

Bajaj Mobility AG Annual Financial Report 2025

Mattighofen, Austria based Bajaj Mobility AG - the new name for Pierer Mobility AG and the KTM AG holding company - has released its first set of full year financial results since its 2023-2025 'near death experience'. Against the backdrop of what it describes as a "record motorsport season" it is reporting a "successful turnaround following an intensive year of restructuring and operational stabilisation".

CEO Gottfried Neumeister: "as of today March 26 we had already sold more than twice as many motorcycles as in the first quarter of 2025".

Citing a "clear turnaround in the second half of the year" following a restructuring-driven start to the 2025 financial year, the company says it now has now established a "solid foundation for profitable growth."

Business performance highlights include a strong recovery in H2 2025 retail sales, increasing by around 60 % compared to H1 and a previously referenced € 1,193m restructuring gain. In its provisional financial report released at the end of March 2026, the company says revenue was € 1.009bn on sales volume of 209,704 units with an EBITDA of € 874m, EBIT of 

€ 748m and net profit of € 590m - raising its equity ratio to 24.3 % (on equity of € 385m) and "significantly" reducing net debt to € 798m.

Inventory had been reduced by 101,153 units to 147,427 vehicles (from 248,580). In motorsport terms 2025 is described as "the most successful year in the company's history" with 29 championship titles bagged.

CFO Petra Preining is quoted as stating that "2025 was a year of intensive financial reorganization. Through consistent inventory reduction, a focus on a sustainable cost structure and successful refinancing measures, we have clearly strengthened our financial base. We have created the conditions for a more profitable 2026.

"The restructuring and realignment measures initiated in 2025 included strengthening of our capital structure". KTM AG secured an unsecured loan of € 550m from an international banking consortium consisting of J.P. Morgan SE, HSBC, DBS Bank Limited and MUFG Bank Ltd - "a key milestone and strong signal of confidence from the financial markets.

"The five-year unsecured financing at exceptionally favoruable terms underlines the renewed confidence of leading financial institutions in the company's business strategy and operational strength. This replaces the existing, significantly higher-interest loan from Bajaj Auto amounting to € 450m, thereby substantially improving the group's financial stability and flexibility and creating the liquidity base for the planned growth phase."

Additionally, KTM AG secured a new factoring facility of € 150m and a working capital facility of € 50m.

At the same time, "the company sharpened its strategic focus on its core motorcycle business." Non-strategic business areas were divested - MV Agusta, KTM X-Bow and the entire bicycle segment are gone.

Their motorsport dominance has already continued into Q1 of 2026 with successes including Luciano Benavides winning the 2026 Dakar Rally for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Billy Bolt securing the 2026 SuperEnduro World Championship for Husqvarna Factory Racing.

For the 2026 financial year "the focus is on further improving profitability" including "focused management of the product and project portfolio as well as strengthening the international production and sales organization.

Adventure R

Adventure S

The Premium Manufacturer's Warranty has been expanded with a four-year warranty now applying to all street-legal KTM and Husqvarna models from model year 2025 onwards, for the first time.

Adventure EVO

CEO Gottfried Neumeister is quoted as stating that "we have made an outstanding start to 2026. It is particularly encouraging that our new models are being received very positively by our customers. As of today [March 26, 2026] we have already sold more than twice as many motorcycles as in the first quarter of the previous year. Inventory reduction is also progressing extremely well."

The company says that "management is aware of the current geopolitical uncertainties and their potential negative impact and is continuously monitoring developments. Appropriate countermeasures are being evaluated."

German motorcycle registrations

Germany - motorcycle registrations +38.66% to February 2026

The most recent available data from the IVM (the motorcycle industry trade association for Germany) shows first two months of 2026 growing at +38.66% (11,786 units).

Welcome though the news is, as elsewhere in Europe the data is somewhat distorted as statistical reporting starts to lap the late 2024 effects of the rush to pre-register unsold Euro 5 inventory before the new Euro 5+ regulatory framework became active at the start of 2025. 

Those units were (mostly) subsequently sold by dealerships in 2025 (in H1 especially) making the apparently extreme decline in new registrations in Germany last year a less than entirely reliable metric.

January in Germany saw reported growth of +70.56% (3,696 units) with February at +27.74% (8,090 units).

Total PTW registrations in January and February in Germany were +41.33% at 17,368 new registrations in total.

As to be expected, the BMW R 1300 GS continues its market domination as the best seller in Germany with 970 units sold for a YTD 8.23% market share. The Kawasaki Z 900 remains in second spot, followed by the BMW F900 R and F 900 GS, S 1000 RR and F 800 GS. The Yamaha MT-07 was the 7th most popular model in Germany so far in 2026, with the BMW F 900 XR, Yamaha Ténéré 700 and BMW S 1000 XR filling the rest of the Top 10 spots. 

BMW has 14 models in the list of the top 50 best sellers in Germany for 2026 so far; Honda has 12, Kawaski six, Yamaha and Suzuki four each and Triumph, Bird and CFMoto two each. In 2025 Honda closed the market share gap on BMW, ending the year only fractionally behind with a 20.30 % market share (19,571 units).

In the electric (light) motorcycles segment in Germany Stark Future has taken market leadership from Zero with 176 units sold to 35 for Zero Motorcycles (now a Dutch globally headquartered American manufacturer), ahead of NIU with 20, LiveWire with 12, Electric Motion and Vmoto with seven each.

For the record: total motorcycle registrations in Germany in 2025 were recorded as being a Euro 5 'pre-reg' distorted -36.02 (97,699 units) with total PTWs at -35.50% (161,744 units).

Athena - GET

Athena and GET in 2026 MXGP partnership

Athena and GET have renewed their long-term collaboration with Infront Moto Racing for the 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship MXGP.

"The MXGP World Championship continues to be a strategic global platform: a true on-track testing ground where GET constantly tests, validates and develops its electronic solutions under real race conditions, working side by side with factory teams, riders and engineers," said Stefania Vercesi, Athena Chief Marketing Officer.

There will be new strategic collaborations for GET in the paddock in 2026, with established partnerships with the likes of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing seeing them continue to use the complete GET electronics package. 

GET electronics also supports Yamaha's entire development structure, with an active presence in the EMX and WMX categories through partner teams.

"GET technology remains central to the technical development of Kawasaki Racing Team in the MX2 class," says Stefania, "while the collaboration with Beta Factory Racing continues through GET Smart Tools."

Athena and GET have also confirmed their support for the Ducati Factory MX Team, accompanying the debut of the Desmo250MX in MX2 through Team Beddini Racing, also active in the European EMX250 program.

"New in 2026, we have TM Moto joining the GET family, adopting data acquisition systems as part of its performance program."

www.athena.eu

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italy - Q1 2026 motorcycle registrations +13.93%

Italy has got its mojo back! For the first three months of 2026 the Italian market appears to have returned to growth, but this is the first published data since the industry started to lap the statistical anomalies caused by the late 2024 Euro 5/Euro 5+ transition - so some caution is required.

In motorcycle terms the first three months were +13.93% at 35,637 units registered. January was +16.26% (8,099 units), February was +11.63% (10,595 units) with March +14.31% (16,943 units).

In total PTW terms the YTD data has Q1 +14.34% (82,023 units) with a ‘Massive March’ that saw growth of +21.95% at 39,606 unit registrations. Scooters were +14.65% for the YTD at 46,386 with motorcycles +13.93

As usual, Q1 saw scooters dominate the list of top-sellers in Italy, with Honda Italia’s SH 125, 350 and 150 series taking the top three spots (over  11,000 units for the first three months between them) followed by their X-ADV 750 and ADV 350 to give them a top-5 lock-out. 

The Zontes ZT368T-G was sixth, followed by the Kymco Agility 125 S, the Yamaha TMAX, The Piaggio Liberty 125 ABS and the Voge SFIDA SR16 in tenth spot.

The top-selling larger displacement motorcycles were all ADV platforms with the Honda Africa Twin in 15th place overall (1,033 units) and the BMW R 1300 GS and R 1300 GS Adventure in 16th and 17th place with 948 and 783 units sold respectively.

For the record: Motorcycle registrations for the 2025 full year in Italy were put at 134,480 units (-19.22%), though the official data does not include the unsold Euro 5 models that were pre-registered in late 2024 but still (mostly) sold from dealerships in 2025. 

SIP Scootershop

SIP - Open Day

SIP Scootershop (Landsberg am Lech, near Munich) will stage its popular 2026 Open Day on 16 May - the event that fires a starting gun for the scooter season throughout Bavaria and beyond.

The last SIP Open Day attracted around 3,500 scooter riders from near and far. The Thursday before the Open Day is Ascension Day, a public holiday, and Munich hosts the Vespa Corso. Two great events on one long weekend!

As ever all the usual attractions and creature comforts will make it a fun day - from crispy pizza cooked in the wood-fired Ape, to food and drink from the Italian SIPERIA café bar and a Custom Scooter Show.

Visitors always report that highlight though is the chance to tour SIP's architect designed, purpose-built headquarters and to have your scooter tested on their calibrated P4 Amerschlaeger test bench (dynamometer).

Every year there are more vendors and an always growing parts and used scooter market for bargains and rarities.

Among the parts that will be on show will be SIP's performance upgrade kits and its Mk II 2.0 design forged aluminum rims for all modern Vespa GTS models - an update to the new-in-2025 seen in IDN a yar ago.

With reduced 3,000 g weight (and therefore improved handling) compared to comparable 13" rims, they meet German and international strength and durability standards, have a dynamic design with concave surface, are approved for wide tyres up to 140/60-13" and ship with the ABE general operating permit certificate.

www.sip-scootershop.com

RK Chain

Sealed chain solution for vintage motorcycles 

­The RK 530UWR chain is specifically designed for vintage motorcycles that originally came equipped with narrow-clearance, non-sealed 530-size chains. 

Leveraging RK's exclusive ultra-thin seal (UW-Ring) technology, the 530UWR achieves the durability of a sealed chain while maintaining a width comparable to a standard non-sealed chain - "making it the perfect upgrade without compromising fitment". 

Ideal for classic British bikes like Norton and Triumph, as well as Japanese vintage motorcycles from the 1970s and 1980s, the RK 530UWR is the "go-to choice for riders looking to enhance reliability while preserving authenticity." 

The chain features a silver coating on the inner and outer plates, pins, and rollers, offering excellent protection against rust and corrosion. 

By upgrading from a non-sealed to a sealed chain, riders can expect at least four times the chain life, along with significantly reduced adjustment requirements after the initial stretch of the chain.

RK JAPAN

www.rk-europe.com

TecMate

OptiMate Duo does the thinking for you

The OptiMate DUO family of battery chargers is designed to deliver on a very simple premise - make charging and maintaining of a battery easy, and so without the need for the rider to know what type of battery is in their vehicle - if it is a 12V, then an OptiMate DUO can charge and maintain that battery without issue. 

OptiMate 1 Duo

CEO and Chief Technical Officer of manufacturer TecMate says that it is the OptiMate DUO's charging algorithm that does all the 'heavy lifting' - "adjusting automatically for whether it is a Pb/lead-acid or lithium motorcycle battery, an especially valuable feature during long term maintenance where a Pb / AGM battery requires continuous maintenance to remain at 100%, but lithium LFP battery does not." 

OptiMate 2 Duo x4

Lead-acid / AGM batteries receive an hourly 'float charge' to keep the battery at 100%, but when it comes to lithium, the OptiMate DUO charger backs off and monitors the battery hourly, delivering that 'float charge' to bring it back up to around 90% - but only if it had dropped down below 70% due to the drain from the motorcycle's electronics. Clever stuff. Simple stuff. 

"Using an OptiMate DUO charger really is as simple and fully automatic as that - connect to the battery and that's it. No buttons to push, no thinking required. Once connected, the OptiMate DUO charger does the thinking for you and adapts automatically, delivering a true 'connect & forget, no more battery problems' experience." 

OptiMate10 watt solar panel

Two connection options are included - a fused battery lead / harness with M6 ringlets and a protected SAE connector, and a set of battery clips that are designed specifically for the square posts of a motorcycle battery. 

"The range has a selection of options and entry-points," says Martin. "OptiMate 1 DUO is a popular choice, a balance between function and price, delivering up to 0.6A of charge current, ideal for any motorcycle, ATV or UTV that does not have continuously active electronics like a keyless ignition system. 

"With more sophisticated systems and heavier draws the dealer needs to step up to the OptiMate 2 DUO that delivers up to 2 Amps of charge current for a faster charge and sufficient maintenance current for those touring and adventure motorcycles with key-less ignition (key-fob) and electronic lockable side cases / bags."  

The OptiMate 2 DUO range extends to 2-bank and 4-bank models that are ideal for multi-vehicle maintenance or new battery preparation. Each independent bank delivers 2 Amps and automatically adapts to the connected battery type, which means you could have different lead-acid (flooded or AGM) or lithium LFP batteries connected to the same multi-bank charger, which certainly makes battery preparation or maintenance as easy as you like. 

For situations where there is no AC power available there are two off-grid options to consider. The first is the OptiMate DC-DUO that delivers up to 2 Amps of charge to a 12V battery, whilst drawing power from another 12V source or battery, or from the battery in a car or pickup truck. The OptiMate DC-DUO is an essential tool for the rider who wants to maintain a battery in a motorcycle or even their car that is parked in a 'off-grid' storage area. The second option is the OptiMate Solar DUO range with 10W, 20W and 40W options available. 

"Never-mind battery type or size, one of the OptiMate DUO family 'members' will make your customers' battery problems go away and at the same time reduce questionable battery returns," says Martin. "If you want it easy, choose the OptiMate DUO range of chargers". 

TECMATE

www.tecmate.com

www.optimate1.com

News Briefs

German scooter parts, accessories and lifestyle specialist SIP Scootershop has won a German Design Award 2026 for its annual customer magazine CURVE. Honoured as winner in the 'Communication Design Excellence' category, CURVE is a 100-page celebration of all things Vespa and Lambretta - "with a clear focus on the scene, culture, technology and people."

Former BMW VP Stephan Reiff has been added to the Supervisory Board of KTM AG as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) - responsible for Sales, Marketing, Brand Strategy, Dealer Network and Aftersales. 

The Austrian KSR Group is further expanding its international brand portfolio, taking over the official distribution of KOVE Motorcycles in Germany.

LeMans Chairman Paul Langley and legendary Bonneville streamliner racer Denis Manning have been named among the 2026 Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame Inductees. Legendary customizer Dave Perewitz receives a Lifetime Achievement award and John Andrews receives the posthumous 'Kickstands Down Award' for his lifetime as a pioneering engineer and founder of cams and gear innovator Andrews Products; www.sturgismuseum.com

BRP says its "design excellence shines globally" as it celebrates 20 International Design Awards in 2025 - including for the Pulse and Origin electric motorcycles, with the entire BRP Design Team having been awarded a Red Dot Design Team of the Year earlier in 2025. A 'bright and shiny' thing indeed!; www.brp.com

Boise, Idaho based Western Power Sports (WPS - part of the same Arrowhead Group as Bihr distribution, All Balls Racing, Vertex and RST apparel) has added distribution for another European group member - the British RFX high-performance offroad motorcycle component specialist.

OMotion, a 2013 founded lightweight, electric 3-wheeled vehicle manufacturer has announced that its new 630 m2 factory has been completed at Lund, Sweden, giving it the capacity to build 200 vehicles a year; www.omotion.se

Matris

Matris suspension options for CFMoto 675 SR-R

Italian suspension specialist Matris has a complete range of suspension upgrade options for the 2025 and up CF Moto 675 SR-R sport-racing bike.

At the front, a full range of hydraulic, asymmetric quad-valve system, cartridge kits is available with a choice between 25 mm asymmetric "sealed and pressurised" F25SA top high-end cartridge, 25 mm asymmetric "classic" quad valve F25R - "our classic cartridge for race-track", and the 20 mm asymmetric quad valve F20K as an entry level OE upgrade replacement.

All are fully adjustable on compression, rebound and spring preload, and as usual with Matris replacement front-end component upgrades, they replace all the original internal fork parts for a 'mod-free', plug & play, totally reversible install.

At the rear, Matris' sophisticated three-way "R" series shock for race and track use is said to be a good choice for the 675 SR-R, with a choice of two systems - the two-way (medium level) M46K fully multi-adjustable (compression, rebound, ride-hight, preload) and the entry-level M46KD.

All can be equipped with the hydraulic spring preload unit for an easy and quick change of setting according to rider needs. They are available with classic orange spring or, in the Dark Series, with black spring.

Different spring rates are available for front and rear suspensions allowing Matris suspension products to be tuned for weight load and riding preferences. 

For greater safety at high speed on track or road, and to reduce front wheel shake, a choice of Matris ready-to-fit steering dampers are available, with their well-known 'Speed Sensitive System' SDR and SDK series.

Fully adjustable, hydraulic functioning and Nitrogen gas pressurised, they replace the OEM dampers, using the original mounts.

MATRIS S.R.L.

www.matrisdampers.com

LeoVince

LV-14 R for Honda CB 1000 Hornet/SP 

LeoVince has developed a new exhaust option for the Honda CB 1000 Hornet/SP - the LV-14 R Black Edition silencer - representing "the constant innovation in technology and design that has distinguished us for 70 years."

Features include "innovative shapes and cutting-edge materials" which come together to create an "aerodynamic and elegant exhaust that enhances the look and riding pleasure of the CB 1000."

A special packing material with high thermal resistance is hand-assembled to a straight-through internal muffler core equipped with a db-killer. "This solution tunes the sound to the unmistakable LeoVince tones".

Available in stainless steel and titanium, all TIG weldings are "handcrafted by specialised operators with resistance and reliability the key to durability and performance”.

LEOVINCE

www.leovince.com

Athena GET

GET SX1 PRO Race Tech for new Triumph Enduro models

GET's SX1 PRO family of advanced Off-Road ECUs has grown again for 2026, with new international championships developed applications including the new Triumph Enduro TF 250 and TF 450 2026, as well as the Fantic XEF 310 and XE 300 2026.

"We are the first on the market to offer aftermarket ECUs for the new Triumph Enduro models. Backed by the experience gained as an official OEM Triumph technical partner and through participation with the Hinckley-based manufacturer in international competitions, our new suite of 2T and 4T performance maximising electronic fuel injection management systems lead the way at every turn," says GET Brand Manager Emanuel Gobbi.

The new SX1 PRO ECUs for Triumph (and Fantic) Enduro models offer two racing maps developed with OEM expertise, with a range of new and upgraded features that includes a new high-performance processor for faster and more accurate data processing from CPS, TPS, MAP, IAT and ECT sensors, OEM wiring harness compatible Plug & Play installation and GPA Traction Control.

"Our experience comes straight from the experience we gain from providing Official Team Solutions directly to your customer's bikes," said Emanuel.

ATHENA

www.athena.eu

National Cycle

VStream height choices for Tracer 9 GT/GT+

In response to requests from its dealers, last year Maywood, Illinois (Chicago) based manufacturer National Cycle added new VStream Windscreens for the 2021-Current Yamaha Tracer 9 GT/GT+ models.

The company adds to its popular VStream range regularly, with fitments that are model specific, to ensure that installation is easy and the bike's windscreen height adjustment is maintained.

VStream gets its name from its unique patented shape. The advanced "V" profile and dimensional contours push the wind vortex out and away from the rider's helmet, resulting in a peaceful, quieter riding environment.

Three sizes mean there is a perfectly sized windscreen for almost every rider. "All will offer improved wind protection and riding comfort compared to other aftermarket windscreens."

These windscreens are made from tough Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate. "This high-quality material, along with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, provides outstanding clarity, impact strength and scratch resistance unmatched by any windscreen maker worldwide.

"Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate is the material of choice for serious motorcycle riders. It is 10X more abrasion resistant than FMR hardcoated polycarbonate, and 30X more than windscreens made from commonly used acrylic or so-called 'aircraft plastic'." VStream Windscreens are backed by a three year warranty against breakage.

National Cycle products are made in the U.S.A.

NATIONAL CYCLE INC.

www.nationalcycle.com

Surflex

Surflex - 75th Anniversary, from Vintage Range to 2026 bike clutches

Proud owners of the Italian 'Marchio Storico' - the prestigious recognition awarded in Italy to what are regarded as historic and industrially important brands and businesses - Surflex (founded in 1951) celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026.

To mark the achievement the Tradate (VA) manufacturer is introducing a 'Vintage Range' of clutch components dedicated to motorbikes from 1914.

It was at that time that the early Italian bike industry was finding its place among the burgeoning British and German brands and models, enjoying already gaining a reputation for design and prestige.

Ariel and Norton dominated the international landscape at that time and, in Italy brands such as Bianchi (founded in 1885), Benelli (1911), Gilera (1909), Della Ferrera (1909) and Frera - founded in 1905 and based in Tradate, the same town that would eventually become home to Surflex.

Early brands that Surflex worked on included the likes of Vespa and Lambretta scooters, and 50 cc mopeds with Minarelli, Franco Morini and Zündapp engines, and the stylish reverse gear equipped Belgian Sarolea marque.

Surflex was founded by Giuseppi Rimoldi, the first Italian manufacturer of motorcycles clutches. Caterina Rimoldi told IDN that "in Surflex enthusiasm and excitement drove the production of mechanical parts and still does. 

"Shaped and made with the same raw materials selected and designated by the OE manufacturer, always conducted our own independent research into friction materials. This resulted in own-made organic and sintered materials for various applications - especially for trial and speedway models - always been among the most demanding and specialist applications for friction materials.

"Racing was always a very important - and successful - market for Surflex. Among other famous racers our sintered discs equipped the MV Agustas of Giacomo Agostini.

"Surflex invested heavily in manufacturing technology, much of it was of our design and some of the original equipment is still used sometimes today. It is the only way to replicate the delicate operations and production differences that characterised some of the earliest components made in our factory. 

"The same attention to detail, precision, materials research and craftsmanship that informed our earliest manufacturing is still applied to everything we do today. Despite the care of the conservation and restoration of vintage pieces, Surflex have continued following, considering, observing, studying and reproducing contemporary European and Japanese model clutches. range, as tradition and innovation."

The Japanese motorcycle industry started to develop in the 1950s, especially with Mr. Soichiro Honda. Surflex was what we'd these days call an "early adopter", offering OEM upgrades for early Honda and other Japanese made models as early as the 1950s. 

The present Surflex catalogue for Honda replacement parts includes about 500 models while the complete catalogue lists 15000 items.

The Surflex attention to detail even went as far as the care that went into packaging with its classic black suitcase for road clutches and the plastic box for off-road items. Both contain instructions for the correct assembly of the products and can be reused in various ways: for tools, documents and small parts. Many is the race van that has Surflex clutch cases being used for race day and pit lane essentials. The design of the plastic box for off-road components has even proven ideal down the years to contain the oil for soaking the clutch disc kit before use, then, to collect the oil during disc changes, directly on the track.

"That is how deeply the Surflex brand has been integrated into the motorcycle power transmission, clutch care and racing culture in the past, and it still is today - 75 years and still counting".

www.surflex.it

News Briefs

Ducati closed 2025 with 50,895 motorcycles delivered worldwide (-7%). Limited availability of the Monster, Hypermotard, and DesertX, linked to the process of complying with the European Euro 5+ emissions regulations held unit sales back. In terms of volumes, Italy continues to be Ducati's leading market, with a total of 8,803 motorcycles delivered (-8%). The United States ranks second with 7,268 units (+4%), followed by Germany, the third market with 5,759 motorcycles delivered (-12%). Among the European markets Spain saw a +15% increase, along with Austria +14%. Japan posted a double-digit increase of +11%. In China, Ducati closed the year with a 31% decline compared to 2024, continuing a negative trend after a 26% decline in the previous year. The Multistrada, in all its versions, remained the most popular motorcycle family among Ducatisti enthusiasts in 2025, with 13,873 units delivered globally. The Panigale family followed, with 10,606 motorcycles delivered, while the Scrambler family recorded 5,814 units.

Yamaha Motor has announced plans to construct two new buildings at IWATA, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan headquarters campus.

Barcelona based Stark Future - "the world's fastest-growing motorcycle company" - has announced a strategic partnership with global battery leader EVE Energy to bring a new Stark-developed, purpose-built cell format into mass production for the next generation of high-performance electric motorcycles.

BMW Motorrad posted another strong result in 2025: for the fourth consecutive year the company delivered more than 200,000 motorcycles to customers - a total of 202,563 units worldwide. "Despite a challenging market environment, including a global decline in the over cc segment, volatile conditions, intense price competition, regulatory constraints and new customs rules, BMW Motorrad achieved a solid sales result." Several of BMW's markets nonetheless recorded best ever results, including Italy, Spain, Japan, Australia, Portugal, Canada, Malaysia and the Netherlands. In December 2025, a total of 15,109 motorcycles were sold, their third-best December in BMW Motorrad's history and a positive indicator for 2026. The German market saw BMW gain market share (+4.1 p.p. in the over 500 cc segment) as it expanded its home market leadership, with 25,516 units sold. France was its second strongest market in Europe with 19,019 units sold, Italy third (16,692), and Spain fourth (14,005). Outside Europe, the USA saw 14,869 units sold; Brazil 14,488, and China 10,555. Unsurprisingly, the BMW R 1300 GS Adventure and R 1300 GS were their strongest sellers, followed by the S 1000 RR.

Human rights groups have reported that among the fatalities in the Iranian regime's January crack down on protests was a teenager called Duana Bahador. Known as Iran's 'Baby Rider' the motorbike influencer was shot dead by security forces. The 19-year-old had built a strong following in Iran and elsewhere and, among other efforts to enjoy her young life, is known to have posted videos of herself online without a headscarf. Doing God's will?

Following the decision announced by José Boisjoli to retire as President and CEO of BRP and step down from his role as Chair of the Board of Directors, the Valcourt, Quebec based manufacturer has announced Denis Le Vot as their new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Europe's largest motorcycle rally, the (40th) annual Biker Fest International (an AMD Approved Custom Bike Show event) will be staged at its traditional Lignano Sabbiadoro (Udine, Italy) seaside resort from May 14 to 17. Last year recorded a massive 265,000 attendee count over the course of the weekend - making it not only the biggest motorcycle rally in Europe, but also the third largest event of this kind in the world - only after the legendary U.S. rallies of Sturgis and Daytona; www.bikerfest.it

Parts Europe

Parts Europe adds Brembo 

Brembo is now available across the full Parts Europe distribution network. "Internationally recognised for its leadership in braking system engineering, Brembo's products are widely used by motorcycle manufacturers and racing teams, reflecting a commitment to performance, safety, and continuous innovation.

"Parts Europe now offers Brembo aftermarket braking components, including brake calipers, discs, pads, master cylinders and related components and accessories. The Brembo range covers a broad spectrum of motorcycle applications, from street and touring models to high-performance sport and track-oriented machines.

"All the Brembo aftermarket products supplied by Parts Europe are manufactured to OEM-level quality standards and undergo extensive quality control and validation. This ensures accurate fitment, regulatory compliance, and dependable performance, making Brembo solutions suitable for both performance upgrades and professional replacement applications."

More recent Parts Europe additions include German made ESJOT sprockets, the long-established Italian made DOMINO brand grips, and Spanish OXA FACTORY 2-stroke exhausts, a specialty off-road exhaust brand made near Girona in Catalonia by Tecnigas.  

www.partseurope.eu

www.brembo.com

Oxford Products

Montreal 5.0 Dry2Dry jacket

"Back and better than ever", British specialist Oxford Products say its Montreal 5.0 Dry2Dry Men's Jacket is a CE AA Certified (EN 17092-3:2020) approved "versatile adventure jacket with a best-in-class specification. It builds on the great value already offered by the Montreal 4.0 and represents a major lift for the specification one of our top-sellers".

The 5.0 pairs an upgraded HDR Poly (High-Density Recycled Polyester) outer shell with a high-performing Dry2Dry waterproof membrane for downpour-beating performance. The membrane also offers exceptional breathability (rated at 20,000g/m2/24hrs) ensuring a sweat-free, extended comfort ride, suitable for a wide range of conditions.

"Large, vented chest panels can be zipped open and folded inwards to create a flow of fresh air throughout the jacket, whilst SnapLock Vents at the forearms and chest draw maximum airflow. The removable thermal liner adds extra warmth on cooler days.

"The critical impact zones of the shoulders and elbows have been reinforced with heavier duty materials and trim, all of which helps the Montreal to comfortably achieve a CE AA rating, as well as a reassuring feel of quality". 

The protection includes CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow protectors (EN 1621-1:2012); dual size prepared Oxford back protector pocket (protector sold separately); hidden structure stitching; reinforced structure and 360° reflective printing for night-time visibility.

"The Dry2Dry waterproof and breathable membrane offers 10,000 mm waterproofing and 20,000g/m2/24hrs breathability. C0 DWR (Durable Water Repellent) makes water bead and disperse from the outer shell; there is a Storm Placket, 7 ventilation zones across the jacket, large foldback chest vents, SnapLock Vents at the forearms and a zippered rear exhaust vent, removable thermal liner."

The jacket is available in men's and women's sizing with optional matching pants.

OXFORD PRODUCTS

www.oxfordproducts.com

Matris

Matris for CFMoto 800 NK Advanced & Sport

Italian suspension specialist Matris has added improved suspension settings options for the increasingly popular and well regarded CFMoto sport naked 800 NK (2023 and up), with a complete range of high-end suspension products.

At the front, there's a choice of hydraulic, asymmetric "Quad Valve System" cartridge options, fully adjustable on compression, rebound and preload - the entry-level F20K (20 mm valve) for road and sport use and their mid-level F25R-X (25 mm valve) for sport and track-day use.

All the fork cartridge kits completely replace the original internal fork components and are a 'Plug & Play', fully reversible, ready to install design with no modifications to the original fork.

To complete the front-end upgrade, Matris recommend that sport riders install one of its award-winning fully adjustable "speed sensitive system" SDR or SDK steering dampers to reduce front wheel shake and provide greater safety at high speed. A mod-free 'easy install', they both fit easily on the original supports.

At the rear, a choice of shock absorber upgrade options includes the M46K and the M46KD rear shocks. 

Both are multi-adjustable in compression, rebound, length and preload, and equipped with a Hydraulic Spring Preload unit for an easy and fast setting change - allowing riders to tune the rear suspension for load and riding style.

As with all Matris suspension products, different spring rates are available to correctly match the rider's weight, load and riding style preferences - with the rear shock springs offered in Orange or Black.

MATRIS S.R.L.

www.matrisdampers.com

LeoVince

LeoVince LV-14 R for Yamaha MT-09

Italian exhaust brand LeoVince has developed a new street legal LV-14 R for the Yamaha MT-09 that "represents the constant innovation in technology and design that has distinguished us for more than 70 years. 

"Innovative shapes and cutting-edge materials come together to create an aerodynamic and elegant exhaust that enhances the look and riding pleasure of Yamahas popular MT-09."

The LV-14 R silencer contains a special packing material with high thermal resistance which is hand-assembled to a straight-through internal muffler core equipped with a db-killer. "This solution tunes the sound of the bike to the unmistakable LeoVince notes".

All TIG weldings are handcrafted by experienced, specialist operators - "because resistance and reliability are the key to pure and long-lasting fun."

The LV-14 R is available in three different versions for the Yamaha MT-09: LV-14 R Stainless Steel - Street Legal - part #15619K;  LV-14 R Black Edition - Street Legal - part #15619BK and LV-14 R Titanium - Street Legal - part #15619TK.

LEOVINCE

www.leovince.com

Comment by Editor, Robin Bradley

INTERMOT in February - the right plan but 15 years too late

The INTERMOT saga continues. Once one of the two largest motorcycle industry exhibitions in Europe, Covid forced a 2020 cancellation, but the problems for INTERMOT started earlier than that. 

There had been dissatisfaction among some parts of the 'Cologne' exhibitor community as early as the 2016 show. In 2017 was already concern that the show was not delivering a proportionate return on exhibitor investments, that attendance was lower that it needed to be.

Following the 2018 expo, that dissatisfaction morphed into a tsunami of negativity and the future of the show was already in trouble before Covid dealt it a long-term blow in 2020 - a blow that still has the potential to be terminal.

Many people, me included, had been suggesting to Koelnmesse (the Cologne Exhibition Center that organises and stages it for IVM - the German motorcycle industry trade association) that the show needed to be held annually and move to February (away from EICMA) as early as 2006 (the year the show moved to Cologne from Munich). 

This was in response to ANCMA's decision (the Italian motorcycle industry trade association) to break its agreement with the IVM, ending the alternate annual show rotation that had seen the shows working well in tandem. 

ANCMA had its reasons - mostly to do with OEM membership fees and of increased costs of moving EICMA away from the historic, but outdated downtown Mussolini era Deco/Brutalist edifice.

Among the effects of SM and the internet on the motorcycle show sector, one of the most toxic had been to apparently cut the umbilical cord that tied the OEMs to autumn shows. That allowed them to jettison a new model year introduction cycle that had been a fundamental structural pillar.

'walk away from the shows'

With that gone, the OEMs were able to escape the effects of a structured new model introduction cycle on their calendar, for an unstructured new model introduction cycle that could be shaped by them instead, to suit different business cycles. Cycles that allowed the OEMs to choose when, why and (above all) how to release new model information, and to do so in line with their perception of what worked best for their production and sales cycles.

They were also eying big savings at a time when it was widely expected that shows were 'over' and would never be the 'power in the land' again.

In 2020 and 2021 the primary response among the OEMs, especially in Germany, was to walk away - from INTERMOT especially. BMW even went as far as to state on, the record that, moving forward, it would stop using corporate budgets to fund expo investments.

For a period of 24-36 months, the motorcycle industry (in Europe especially) was convinced that they didn't they had been liberated, that they didn't need the shows anymore, that the public no longer wanted to attend them and that they no longer served any practical competitive advantage. 

They were wrong. All they were now focussed on were the (theoretical) savings, as exhibition budgets could shrink, and the increased overlordship and empowerment that being able to directly 'boss' they customers through their device screens would give them. They really were (and largely still are) that naïve and that insanely drenched in corporate 'Kool Aid'.

Ironically, the reaction of the OEMs, in Germany in particular, in INTERMOT's hinterland, included those who are, in effect, the German Motorcycle industry trade association's owners and stake holders, in both conceptual and financial terms. Not least BMW - whose arrogant pronouncements on shows was tantamount to "screwing their own pooch". Oh, the hubris of it.

Fast forward five years or so and the OEMs in Germany (in particular - manufacturers, subsidiaries and importing subsidiaries) must be in a blind panic. The experiment of moving INTERMOT to a December timing was a forced acknowledgement that they failed to compete and had allowed their show to now stand behind EICMA in the line for new model debuts. What were they thinking? It was never going to work.

So now we have a brand new bright and shiny idea - "I know, let's stage INTERMOT every year, but in February".

What a great idea. You finally got to the same blindingly obvious conclusion that dozens if not hundreds of people in the motorcycle industry had been trying to tell you more than a decade ago.

So, now that they have done it, all will be well, yes? No, it won't. The decision was left so long that the opportunity for INTERMOT to prosper annually in February has closed on them. I hope I am wrong, and I for one will certainly visit it on February 19-21, 2027, but the Q1 expo landscape in Germany (and Europe as a whole) is now entirely different. It has altered decisively.

Without taking account of MOTORbuers in Utrecht, or Motor Bike Expo (MBE) in Verona in January and MC-Massan in Sweden at the end of January, or any of the dozen or so valuable specialty and regional shows that happen around Europe in the February through April period,  INTERMOT is now faced with even fiercer competition than EICMA represented.

In the space of three or four weeks, the industry will now be expected to support, sustain, invest in and help further develop  cluster of budget-cucking events - INTERMOT at Cologne, Mondial du Deux Roues at Lyon, IMOT at Munich and MOTORRÄDER Dortmund at the beginning of March. All three of those other shows have been doing increasingly well in recent years, as have Utrecht, Verona and the newly re-born show in Sweden.

Like nature, capitalism abhors a vacuum and the uncertain response to ANCMA's declaration of war on INTERMOT in 2006 has now left the show at a major competitive disadvantage. Others have since stolen the February opportunity from them. At a time when the weakness in new model registrations will likely feed back into marketing budgets, the outcomes will profit no one.

FERODO

FERODO - TM Boano and Pata Maxus Yamaha WorldSBK

FERODO is to continue as a technical sponsor of two premier racing programs in 2026 - the TM Boano Factory Team in enduro and the Pata Maxus Yamaha WorldSBK Official Team - "a clear statement of our commitment to excellence across multiple disciplines of elite motorcycle racing," said FERODO Sales Director John Davies.

"In enduro, TM Boano delivered an exceptional campaign in 2025. Zach Pichon claimed the Overall Title in the Assoluti d'Italia Enduro Championship and secured third place in the FIM EnduroGP World Championship. 

"Alberto Elgari dominated the 125 cc class with a perfect season of victories, while Manuel Verzeroli impressed in the Junior ranks. Blending proven experience with emerging talent - and backed by TM machinery and FERODO's braking performance - the team reinforced its position at the forefront of the enduro scene. 

"On the WorldSBK stage, Yamaha has further strengthened its factory effort with the arrival of Xavi Vierge as a new rider alongside Andrea Locatelli. The updated line-up injects fresh energy and experience into the Pata Maxus Yamaha WorldSBK Official Team, underlining Yamaha's ambition to be a consistent challenger for podiums and race wins. 

"FERODO's high-performance braking expertise remains a decisive factor in extracting peak performance, from a demanding terrain to high-speed intensity." 

www.ferodoracing.com

GALFER

GALFER - racing around the world in 2026 

Barcelona based motorcycle brake components specialist GALFER say that "for the 2026 motorcycle racing season, we are reaffirming our position as a benchmark in high performance braking technology, with our Floatech Racing discs and G1310 sintered brake pads playing a leading role across the MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3 and WSBK championships."

In Moto2, riders Iván Ortolá and Ángel Piqueras from the MSi Racing Team, together with Mario Suryo Aji and Taiyo Furusato from Honda Team Asia, are using GALFER to tackle every Grand Prix of the 2026 season.

Among the Moto3 contenders, MSi Racing, Leopard Racing and Honda Team Asia field riders Ryusei Yamanaka, Hakim Danish, Adrián Fernández, Guido Pini, Zen Mitani and Veda Egapratama are using GALFER, alongside Jesús Ríos, Niccola Carraro and Joel Kelso. 

"Floatech Racing discs combined with G1310 brake pads ensure powerful and consistent braking, decisive in every phase of the race." 

At the time of publication, GALFER told IDN that it was working with 10 teams and 23 racers from eight different nationalities - "we are entering the 2026 season with a strong international structure in the world of competitive racing.

"Engineered to manage thermal expansion and ensure stability at high speeds, the advanced technology of our Floatech Racing discs, together with our race derived G1310 sintered brake pads, represents a powerful yet highly modulable braking combination that produces reliable, consistent performance."

In the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) – World Supersport (WSSP) category, GALFER riders include Federico Caricasulo and Valentin Debise with ZXMOTO Factory Evan Bros, Luca Mahias and Roberto García with GMT94 Yamaha, Tom Both-Amos and Oli Bayliss with PTR Triumph, and Xavier Cardelús with Cerba Yamaha Racing.

www.galfermoto.com