INTERMOT

INTERMOT to be annual in February from 2027

The IVM (the German motorcycle industry) and Koelmesse (The Cologne Exhibition Centre) have announced another change in timing for INTERMOT.

Having decided three years ago to move it to early December and (finally) accept that it needs to be an annual expo, they have now announced that it will remain annual, but now move to February each year - 12-14 February, 2027.

Koelnmesse say that it and the IVM are now to "position INTERMOT as the central, leading trade fair of the motorcycle industry in Germany". The change comes in the context of the pre-Christmas December timing simply not working, and subtle changes to the event calendar in Germany having altered the 'centre of gravity' of the events cycle in Germany.

Those changes include a rejuvenated MOTORRÄDER Dortmund now being staged slightly earlier (March 5-8, 2026) each year and IMOT (Munich, February 20-22, 2026) having moved to occupy two halls at Messe Munich (The Munich Exhibition Centre) where INTERMOT made its debut in 1998.

The date chosen for INTERMOT likely places it one week before IMOT - both IMOT and MOTORRÄDER Dortmund have started to gain increased traction in recent years, as INTERMOT has declined; in in both exhibitor and visitor number terms.

"More than an event for the motorcycle world", the organisers state that INTERMOT "is the leading national platform for the German and international industry to present its full assortment. 

"For precisely this reason, the trade fair is now being scheduled significantly earlier in the year in keeping with the decision of the extraordinary general assembly of the IVM of 10 February 2026. With the new dates from 12 to 14 February 2027, IVM and Koelnmesse are positioning the INTERMOT as the leading industry platform in Germany and are cooperating to advance further the strategic development that was begun in 2024." 

Mike Sommer, head of BMW Motorrad Germany and IVM President, emphasises the joint decision of the association and the industry. "Germany needs a strong, national motorcycle trade fair. Visitors ideally want to see, feel and smell all motorcycle and scooter brands as well as clothing, accessories, travel and experiences live at one event. 

"And, of course, have fun, take test rides and 'talk gas'. I am convinced that the INTERMOT can once again become the leading trade fair for the entire industry with the shift of the dates to the start of the season and the expansion from two to four halls." 

"BMW Motorrad will of course be there!" - which is an interesting remark because BMW Motorrad's 2020/2021 announcement that it would no longer directly support INTERMOT (in fact no longer directly support any shows) widened and accelerated the loss of confidence in INTERMOT that had started following the 2018 show. 

Both IVM and Koelnmesse must additionally have been watching the growing success of Le Salon du 2 Roues de Lyon at Eurexpo, Lyon (26 February to March 01, 2026, annual).

Former Motorrad Magazine Editor-in-Chief Uwe Seitz, who was unanimously chosen to replace Reiner Brendicke as the new Chief Executive Officer of the IVM in September 2025 (two months before INTERMOT in December 2025) is quoted as stating that this was a "strong vote for a major, central motorcycle fair for all those who share a passion for motorised two-wheelers - that was the shared wish of the steering committee and myself after I assumed office as Chief Executive Officer of the Industrie-Verband Motorrad. 

"We were successful in this. Now everyone can look forward to seeing everything revolving around motorcycling in one place in Cologne, right on time for the start of the 2027 season. This had not existed in this form in Germany in past years, and the great response of manufacturers, motorcycle producers and accessory providers shows me that the industry has understood how important this is for the economically important German motorcycle market. 

"The IVM has already begun creating a two-wheeler experience of a very special kind from this clear acknowledgment in February 2027."

MC-Massan 2026

MC-Massan 2026

Jonkoping, Sweden, January 23-25, 2026

Words and pictures by Torbjörn "Tobbe" Bergh, Cross-Center International

Having previously alternated between Stockholm and Gothenburg, January this year saw a comeback for Sweden's MC-Massan motorcycle industry expo at the 34,000 sq. m. Elmia Exhibition and Convention Centre at Jonkoping in central southern Sweden.

Backed by the Swedish motorcycle industry trade association MCRF (www.mcbranschen.se) and the Swedish Riders Group SMC (www.svmc.se), the collaboration resulted in a successful return for an event that had missed four out of the past five years since being staged in Gothenburg in January 2020 (it was also staged in 2024, at Stockholm).

Organised for MCRF and SMC by the management of the Elmia facility, the new venue has convenience stamped all over it - located in within a radius of about a radius of 350 km from the largest cities of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Stockholm, Malmö, Copenhagen, Oslo and Göteborg are all within a 4-hour journey with car; less by motorcycle (weather and limits permitting of course).

Our thanks to Torbjorn 'Tobbe' Bergh of Cross Center International (one of Europe's leading MX wheel specialists) and our sometime IDN Scandinavian correspondent for these photos from the show.

As an exhibitor himself, and a man accustomed to casting a critical eye on what he sees going on in the motorcycle industry, he can be relied on for an impartial observation of how the show went and reports that, after a rocky period for the expo scene in Sweden, "It went well".

"Most of the importers, distributors, motorcycle clubs, parts and accessory and apparel manufacturers and vendors were there, along with other companies in the motorcycle industry, including a good showing by the custom bike market and an FMX show - there was plenty for the 36,000 visitors to see, plenty to keep them interested.

"The few companies that were missing will almost certainly attend next year once the word gets out that the show is back and in good health, and it's more than likely it will be at the same location and hopefully with an added hall and more exhibitors."

When the show was last organised (2024, Stockholm) there were a reported 30,500 visitors so it looks like the Swedish motorcycle community has welcomed the return of an annual indoor winter expo opportunity. 

"It has been a complex journey to see a version of the show come back," said Tobbe. "There's no question though that the motorcycle market in Sweden needs such an event and congratulations to the partnership that made it happen. This collaboration between expo centre, trade association and Riders Group is a good formula for market needs here in Sweden.

"As an exhibitor we certainly did well enough to want to exhibit again in the future, and our message to everyone is to buy a booth or at least visit - it's a valuable and much needed opportunity for us all to play a part in the future of the motorcycle market in Sweden."

Any inquiries for 2027 can be addressed in the first instance to MCRF General Secretary Niklas Kristoffersson (niklas.kristoffersson@mcrf.se).

Barnett Tool & Engineering

Barnett clutch kit for Yamaha YZF-R9

Ventura, California based Barnett Tool & Engineering has launched a new high-performance clutch kit designed specifically for the Yamaha YZF-R9. 

"Built for riders demanding smoother engagement, stronger power transfer, and long-lasting durability, the kit includes Barnett's premium Kevlar friction plates, tempered steel drive plates, and heavy-duty clutch springs."

The kit installs as a direct OEM replacement with no modifications required and is engineered to deliver cooler operation, improved modulation, and consistent performance on both street and track.

BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES

www.barnettclutches.com

GIVI

GIVI Canyon bags range expands

Designed for off-road enthusiasts who "don't want to compromise on practicality and safety", the Canyon ranged by GIVI now includes three new products - a side bag with cut-out design, an enduro backpack and a waist bag. 

The GRT727 side bag is designed for enduro and maxi-enduro motorcycles equipped with a high exhaust on the right side. Its notched shape allows it to be positioned on the frame for a well-balanced ride when both side bags are installed. Mounting is by Monokey cam-side which attached so PLOS-CAM notched side racks. 

It features impact- and abrasion-resistant materials and has a removable waterproof inner bag, roll-top closure, a removable Hypalon front flap, an internal pocket and eight load compression points. It has a modular load expansion system, consisting of side loops with the M.O.L.L.E. system, allowing the attachment of additional small loads. A Smart security lock is available separately. The volume is 25 litres, and the maximum load is 10 kg.

The GRT731 backpack is designed to accommodate the GIVI T523 HydraPak, with the hydration tube remaining secure due to loops on the shoulder straps. The front flap is made of Hypalon is easy to access, it has a sturdy mesh pocket and an extendable design. Precision positioning is ensured by shoulder straps including four adjustment points and a chest strap. It features reflective prints, has a capacity of 12 litres and weighs 4 kg. 

The GRT732 waist bag is designed for off-road use. It can accommodate a hydration device of up to 1.4 litres, with an easy to use hydration tube through two side pockets. The rear compartment is waterproof with roll-top closure. The front flap is made of Hypalon and the bag features a 3D high-density EVA panel that reinforces the back section. The overall capacity is 8 litres. 

GIVI S.P.A.

www.givimoto.com

Athena

Yamaha YZF 250 Extreme Big Bore Kit

Available for the 21-23 and 24-25 Yamaha YZF 250, Athena's new Extreme Big Bore Cylinder Kits with integrated GET Boost module expand the available applications of their Extreme Big Bore Kits lineup, now delivering the next-level performance they are known for to the ever-popular YZF 250.

"This upgrade is engineered to let the latest YZF 250 generation reach its full potential with increased displacement, increased torque and increased power across the entire power curve, without compromises."

The enlarged cylinder with forged piston increases displacement to a true 304 cc, turning the Yamaha into a fuller, more immediately responsive bike with continuous pull across the whole powerband.

"Thanks to the included, pre-configured GET Boost module, there's no need to redo mappings or modify the ECU. It is pure plug & play - install it, start the engine, twist the throttle and feel the difference immediately."

Athena says that its race development programme gives it the experience and results to build Racing Technology that is built to last. By using premium materials such as a high-silicon aluminium cylinder, co-cast steel liner, forged piston and DLC-treated wrist pin the company says it can produce an upgrade kit that is designed to "perform at the limit".

"Even under extreme conditions, the high-seal MLS (Multi Layered Steel) head gasket ensures impeccable sealing thanks to laser-cut stainless steel, delivering total reliability, even when temperatures rise and the engine is under stress.

This performance upgrade kit includes a high-grade aluminum cylinder with an oversized steel liner, a forged performance piston with pin and rings, and all necessary gaskets. Developed through Athena's extensive racing experience, "this kit ensures smooth, powerful, and progressive power delivery."

The included electronic GET Boost module is pre-calibrated for this specific setup. GET Boost installs easily without ECU or wiring modifications with seamless pre-mapped integration.

GET Boost connects directly to the injector and throttle body via a dedicated harness. The module is pre-mapped to deliver safe, reliable performance with a power curve tailored to the new cylinder.

The cylinder is made from high-silicon aluminum alloy with a steel liner fused using Athena's proprietary co-casting process, "ensuring optimal heat transfer and combustion sealing." The forged piston, CNC-machined and coated with molybdenum disulfide, "offers reduced friction and enhanced durability. The DLC-coated pin ensures maximum hardness and reliability."

The included MLS head gasket is laser-cut from stainless steel to ensure perfect sealing and long-term durability, even under extreme conditions. Bore Diameter is 85.00 mm, bore gain is +8 mm, compression ratio is 13.3:1 with 304.15 cc displacement.

ATHENA

www.athena.eu

PUIG

Puig engine and lever guards included in FIM list

Barcelon based PUIG has had its TRACK engine protection covers and brake and clutch lever guards included in the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) list of Eligible Parts for Competition use.

"The TRACK engine protection kit has been specially designed and optimised to meet the demanding safety criteria established by the FIM. This component not only protects the engine in the event of an impact - it is also designed to enhance safety for other riders. 

"In case of a crash, it prevents oil leaks on the track, reducing the risk of accidents caused by loss of grip. The design includes the mandatory wear holes to facilitate condition monitoring and ensure optimal performance throughout the competition."

Meanwhile, Puig's lever guards (ref: 3765/3877) reduce the risk of contact with other riders and accidental lever activation, while also giving the bike "a racing aesthetic". Developed with the experience gained in MotoGP and WorldSBK, these guards have been included in the FIM Eligible Parts for Competition list after meeting the highest safety standards.

PUIG/MOTOPLASTIC S.A.

www.puig.tv