Thursday, 11 June 2026

Supersprox

Special sprocket production – filling the Talon gap 


Supersprox has announced the development of new a production for small batches of sprockets. CEO DJ Maughfling contacted IDN recently to outline the backstory to this latest development. "Last year, Talon Engineering (Yeovil, UK) ceased trading and that has left a hole in the sprocket supply chain. 

"Talon was excellent at the production of unusual sprockets for a wide range of motorcycles and other sprocket driven vehicles. Talon was well known for its speedway sprockets but also produced small batches of bespoke sprockets for almost all types of vehicles. When Talon ceased trading, we put a lot of effort into the possibility of buying its tooling. 

"After intense negotiations we were able to acquire all the tooling for the production of engine sprockets, and it arrived at our main production plant in Poland in early February - where we are planning to start a special sprocket production department to fill the void.


"This work is not new for us. My father started the Supersprox business in Wales on the border with England, at a tiny village called Knucklas, back in 1959. We had a special sprocket service at the Wales factory up to 1998. 

"When I opened the first factory in Prague, Czech Republic, we could not continue making one offs or small batches and that was a loss for our industry. But this seems to be a good time to re-start special sprocket production once again. In the beginning the service will be for people who can order 10 parts or more of a type. That's going to be almost any sprocket, in any chain size and any tooth count. 



"We plan to extend the service in the future and produce single sprockets. One of the advantages of having a factory in Eastern Europe is the labour cost of course. I didn't come to Poland for the Pierogi. I came here for the lower cost and highly skilled workforce. 


Supersprox CEO DJ Maughfling

"In Western Europe, if your shoes are worn, you buy a new pair. In Eastern Europe, it's still possible to get your shoes repaired for a reasonable price. We can do the same with sprockets. Great quality at a reasonable price".

www.supersprox.com




Barnett Clutches

Ducati Desmo 450 MX Dirt Digger MX performance clutch kit


Ventura, California based Barnett Clutches has added a Ducati Desmo 450 MX Dirt Digger MX Clutch Kit "with improved hook-up, durability, and consistent clutch performance in extreme off-road conditions.

"Built for aggressive starts, hard launches, and the constant clutch abuse," stronger engagement and improved heat resistance help riders maintain control and power transfer.

"Motocross puts incredible stress on a clutch system," said Chris Taylor at Barnett. "The Dirt Digger Clutch Kit for the Ducati Desmo 450 MX is designed to deliver the bite, consistency, and reliability riders need when traction is limited and the pace is high."

Designed to provide maximum performance, key features and benefits include high-performance K22 Kevlar friction plates for improved bite and reduced slippage and enhanced heat resistance. The durable steel drive plates are built to handle aggressive clutch use and precision fitment engineered to meet OEM specifications. 

"Ideal for motocross and off-road racing, especially in harsh dirt and heat conditions, a Belleville clutch spring is separately available.


BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES

www.barnettclutches.com

BS battery

BS battery finder - getting it right first time


Paris based BS Battery's 'Battery Finder Tool' is a tool for dealers and their riders to make sure they are ordering and installing the correct battery for the motorcycle "first time".


Simply enter the motorcycle brand, model, and year and within seconds it provides the original fitment - along with compatible and upgrade options (e.g. lithium).

A regularly updated database covers more than 6,000 applications, reflecting the latest models on the market as well as those with a "storied log of miles and smiles". 

"Whether at the dealership, in the workshop, or directly from a smartphone, the Battery Finder is accessible on desktop, tablet, and mobile, and available in both English and Spanish." The battery finder is available at the company's website.

www.bs-battery.com

Cardo Systems

Cardo Ride App - "Elevating Their Ecosystem"


Cardo Systems has relaunched its motorcycle riding app so riders can plan, track, and share their rides all on one platform.

Now called Cardo Ride, "this major upgrade is designed to give riders more value, more connection, and more reasons to engage with the Cardo ecosystem every time they ride.


"Cardo Ride is not a fresh start – it is a natural evolution of nearly a decade of real-world rider experience developed through the RISER app, acquired by Cardo in 2023. By merging this foundation with Cardo's leadership in rider communication technology, the relaunch introduces a broader, more integrated digital ecosystem built for today's motorcyclists.

"The Cardo Ride App builds on everything riders already rely on today: tracking their journeys, discovering great routes, planning rides, sharing experiences, and staying connected with the global riding community. With over 200 million kilometers (130 million miles) tracked to date and thousands of groups opened, these core features remain at the heart of the app, turning every trip into something memorable."

While the Cardo Connect app will continue to manage device setup, pairing, and system settings, Cardo Ride now becomes the destination for riding, community, sharing experiences, and digital engagement – "expanding what Cardo can bring to users beyond the device itself."

New and enhanced features include an upgraded newsfeed; a new reWind Experience – a fast, social-ready ride recap that lets riders instantly share their journey highlights on a 3D map; a Group for All Cardo Riders and a Seamless Link Back to Cardo Connect.

"As the platform continues to grow, riders can expect deeper analytics, smarter integrations with Cardo communication devices, more community features, and new tools to help them explore and share their passion for riding," said Alon Lumbroso, CEO of Cardo Systems.

Cardo Ride offers many of their existing features in a free version, but to unlock the full experience riders will need to start a free trial of Cardo Ride Pro.

www.cardoride.com

Mitas

Mitas - long-life mousse


Germany tire manufacturer Mitas has introduced a new long-life mousse – "engineered for riders who demand exceptional performance, reliability, and endurance in mixed off road conditions."

Mitas says that it is the extended durability that makes this new long-life mousse different – "it is built last significantly longer in a wide range of challenging off-road environments.

"Reliable feel throughout its service life, it provides riders with stable behaviour and confident handling throughout the mousse's lifespan. By producing more consistent performance over time, the predictable performance and all-conditions reliability result in a smoother and more predictable riding experience.

"Heat handling is a vital part of the tire equation, and our new Long-Life mousse delivers improved resistance to high temperatures ensures. This translates into quicker lap times, more precise handling and higher cornering confidence as well as improved stability.

"With a guaranteed 16-month shelf life from the production date, our Long-Life mousse offers flexibility in storage and inventory management."


MITAS MOTORCYCLE TYRES

www.mitas-moto.com


SC-Project

SC-Project - increased street and race power for the Ténéré 700


Italian exhaust manufacturer SC-Project's new, easy install slip-ons for the updated 2025 Yamaha that do not require remapping the engine software despite the technology upgrades that Yamaha has added to the Ténéré 700

There are five options - three slip-ons that can be attached in the position of the original muffler, and two more that attach at the top under the pillion seat.

X-Plorer II


All five systems are characterised "by impeccable premium quality, maximum robustness and first-class performance. The latter is expressed in the optimised response of the engine and its more powerful sound - which perfectly matches the off-road feeling on the Ténéré 700. 

"Thanks to innovative materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, SC-Project also achieves a significant weight reduction with all five of the new silencers - and for an added touch of 'premium' they all ship with a carbon fibre heat shield.

The X-Plorer II and Rally Raid models correspond to the Euro 5+ regulation set, and the Rally Race, are reserved for track use and mounted like the original exhaust.

The X-Plorer II is said to guarantee an increase in power of around +1.5 hp at 7,750 rpm and an increase in torque of around +1.5 Nm at 7,250 rpm. It is about 40 percent lighter than the Yamaha exhaust.

Rally Raid


The Rally Raid, which is also wrapped in titanium, saves more than -45 percent in weight compared to the OEM system. The result is +1.4 hp at 8,750 rpm and +1.4 Nm at 4,750 rpm more from the 690 CP2 engine. Additional features include CNC-machined outlet area.

The Rally Race, for closed course use only, develops 95 dB at 4,500 rpm or 101 dB without the db-Eater, is more than 50 percent lighter than the Yamaha exhaust - not least thanks to its titanium shell - and is equipped with a round, CNC-machined outlet.

Rally Race

For riders who prefer a high-mount exhaust the Rally Raid can at the top under the seat, but it is not compatible with the original Yamaha cases and turn signals in the position, but it increases the ground clearance and the fording depth in an enduro-like manner - providing the best possible protection against damage.

With Euro 5+ homologation the Rally Raid delivers +1.5 hp and +1.2 Nm more power at 8,250 rpm and is over 35 percent lighter than stock. The version reserved for racetrack use weighs around 45 percent less than stock and increases power by up to +3 hp at 8,750 rpm and up to +2.5 Nm more on the crankshaft at 8,500 rpm. At 4,500 rpm, its noise level is 91 dB. Without the db-Eater it is 5 db more. 

Also reserved for off-road racing is a high-quality 2-in-1 racing manifold system for the 2025 Ténéré two-cylinder engine, which is compatible with original and SC-Project silencers. Made of stainless steel it is about -1.6 kg and made of titanium is -2.4 kg lighter than stock.


SC-PROJECT

www.sc-project.com

Thursday, 4 June 2026

ACEM

ACEM - Q1 2026 Motorcycle Registrations in Europe's 'Big-5' Markets


New motorcycle registrations the five largest European markets (i.e. France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK) reached 250,762 units during the three first months of 2026. This represents an increase of approximately +21.1% compared to 2025 (207,126 units).

The growth comes as registration statistics in Europe lap the Euro 5 'Pre Reg' affected data of Q1 2025. Some 30,000-40,000 new motorcycles were 'pre-registered' before the end of 2024 to avoid being subject to the next stage in the evolution of Europe's regulatory framework.

However, the motorcycles concerned were ultimately sold by dealers in the first three months of 2025 (mostly) but, not included in the 2025 data - distorting the apparent growth seen in this latest tranche of data. 

According to this Q1, 2026 data, motorcycle registration volumes increased in the 5-largest European markets that ACEM monitors with Germany +45.5% (45,549 units year-on-year), Spain +26.8% (58.027 units), UK +16.1% (23.079 units), Italy +14.3% (82.049 units) and France +10.2% (42.058 units).


These 'Big-5' European markets account for just over 80% of all motorcycle sales in all European markets.

Commenting on the current situation of the sector, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said: "The first quarter of 2026 confirms the outlook we shared at the end of last year. 

"With the Euro 5+ transition behind us, the European motorcycle market is regaining momentum. Registrations in the five largest markets rose by 21.1%, with all monitored countries reporting growth. 

"This indicates that demand remains solid and that last year's correction was mainly technical in nature. 

"This strong growth is particularly encouraging in a broader macroeconomic context that remains uncertain. Against this backdrop, the resilience of the motorcycle segment highlights the continued importance of powered two-wheelers for European citizens, both for everyday mobility, small logistics and leisure."

www.acem.eu


Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR)

DGR 15th Edition - Record-Breaking Results


The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR) has wrapped its landmark 15th edition, with "dapper riders" circling the globe on Sunday 17 May 2026 in what has been confirmed as a record-breaking year for participation. 



The ride took place across 109 countries, with 1,068 rides - and fundraising for men's mental health and prostate cancer research continues to climb.

"Reaching our 15th edition is a powerful reminder of what a passionate global community can achieve together," said Mark Hawwa, founder and director of The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride. "With over $7 million raised this year, and riders in 1,070 cities for 2026, DGR proves that motorcycles, style, and purpose make an incredible impact.

"Since the event's founding in 2012, the DGR has added to a legacy built ride by ride, city by city, across more than a decade of 'dapper philanthropy'. More than $170,000 was raised by Team Triumph alone, uniting modern classic enthusiasts and Triumph fans worldwide - a reflection of the broad community that has rallied behind the cause.

"From Toronto to Tokyo, São Paulo to Sydney, more than 115,000 riders participated globally, helping continue a movement that has now raised more than $60 million for' Movember' in support of men's mental health and prostate cancer research."

www.gentlemansride.com

Polini

Polini 70 Evolution cylinder kit


Described as the "most advanced cylinder kit for MBK Booster and vertical Yamaha Minarelli engines, this comprehensive performance improving cast iron kit has been "completely redesigned with exclusive technical solutions never seen before on these kinds of engines".

The heart of the kit is a combination of parts developed to maximise the fluid-dynamic yield and efficiency. It features an improved reed valve housing, integrated into the cylinder with two dedicated ducts that feed directly into the transfers: "an exclusive solution that improves the torque and the response at low rpm".


There is a four-petal reed valve (compared to the traditional two-petal ones) supplied in the kit, to increase and speed up the air/fuel. The dedicated flow guide is designed to better canalize the flow between the manifold and the reed valve, reducing turbulence and loss of charge.

A 360° routable intake manifold is compatible with the Polini CP carburettor taking the venturi from 17 mm to 24 mm. For complete flexibility during the assembly phase, this system allows the use of either a genuine replacement or open filter.

The racing head has a copper gasket, with dual-ring piston and 0.2 and 0.3 mm base gasket to customise the squish. Two versions are available: 166.0074/E with 10 pin or 166.0074/12E with 12 pin.

With a basic setup, the Polini 70 Evolution cylinder kit delivers around 14 real horsepower, with a strong and full torque curve across the entire power output - "a major step forward compared to traditional 70 cc cast iron kits."

Optional kit component upgrades include a 19 to 24 mm CP carburettor, Polini For Race or Scooter Team exhaust system and a High-Speed transmission.


POLINI MOTORI SPA

www.polini.com


Puig

Puig D12 Winglets


The debate about the effectiveness of 'winglets' is still unresolved, but here is science behind the theory and the concept has now migrated from the track to the street and, in accessory terms, from exotic to mainstream.

The theory has always been robust, to find a way of taking racing aerodynamics and make the claims of maximised stability and control precision a reality for street riders. The Puig D12 side winglet programme does that with a "high-performance solution that is designed to push the stability and control of sports motorcycles to the limit."

Conceived and manufactured at Puig's R&D lab in Barcelona, the new D12 winglets place aerodynamics above all else. Their double-wing design with integrated side winglet, channels airflow upward over the fairing, generating up to 4.4 kg of aerodynamic downforce on the front axle. 

This downward force "significantly reduces wheelie effect, improves high-speed stability (anti-shimmie), enhances braking performance, and sharpens handling through direction changes.

"One of the key achievements of these winglets is delivering this level of performance without compromising the overall aerodynamic drag coefficient, thanks to the carefully angled, split surfaces. The result: more control, greater safety, and a superior riding experience - even on the track".

A full range of model specific applications is being rolled out to provide dealers with a programme that offers coverage for an increasing number of their customers with the aim of fitments for a wide range of the bikes currently on the market.


PUIG/MOTOPLASTIC S.A.

www.puig.tv

Athena

Standard bore Cylinder Kit for KTM EXC-F 250


Athena has expanded its product range for KTM EXC-F 250 MY 2020-2023 (as well as GasGas EC-F and Husqvarna FE) with this new Standard Bore Cylinder Kit upgrade - "the ideal solution for engine rebuilds while maintaining original specifications, with no compromise on reliability or performance".


The kit includes an aluminium cylinder with nickel-silicon plated liner for optimal heat dissipation and wear resistance; CNC-machined forged piston featuring a molybdenum disulfide coating to reduce friction and noise; pin and rings made from aerospace-grade materials to ensure smooth operation and long service life; a complete gasket set, including a laser-cut stainless steel MLS (Multi Layered Steel) head gasket for perfect sealing.

"Designed according to OEM standards, this replacement kit guarantees easy and safe installation, making it ideal for maintenance operations and professional engine rebuilds. It complements other Athena products already in our catalogue for the KTM EXC-F 250 2020–2023, including the Top End Piston and Easy Cylinder Kits.

The bore of this cylinder is 78.00 mm, with standard compression ratio, 249.00cc displacement and weighs 1.47 kg.


ATHENA

www.athena.eu

Sprint Filter

Platform specific performance components


The new BMW R 1300 GS is widely regarded as the benchmark for the latest-generation adventure segment. Since its launch the race has been on to find ways of helping riders to make the good, even better.

In announcing its complete performance air filter range - one designed specifically for BMW’s latest-generation boxer - Sprint Filter says it is not just presenting a single upgrade option, but four distinct configurations - each positioned for a precise usage scenario, from road touring to extreme off-road conditions.

The four versions, for four different use profiles, includes P08 (SM260S) - for road-focused performance; P14 (SM260P14) - for mixed use with enhanced protection; T12 (SM260T12) - designed specifically for severe environmental conditions and the P08 F1-85 (SM260S F1-85) - a specialist high-flow application.

All versions share Sprint Filter’s proprietary dry polyester filtering media, a technology that eliminates oiling procedures and simplifies maintenance. Cleaning is performed using compressed air from the inside outward - a feature that reduces service time compared to traditional oiled cotton systems.

The P08 configuration represents the most commercially accessible option, targeting road-oriented riders seeking improved throttle response and smoother power delivery over the OEM paper filter.

The P14 variant shifts the balance toward higher fine-particle retention, addressing the needs of customers who regularly combine asphalt and gravel or undertake long-distance adventure travel in dusty conditions.

The T12 is clearly positioned for markets with strong off-road cultures - including desert and sand-intensive regions - where filtration efficiency becomes a priority over outright airflow.

At the top of the range, the F1-85 version derives from Sprint Filter’s racing experience and is aimed at specialist users focused on maximising intake flow under controlled conditions.

The aftermarket implications of a multi-tiered filtration offer for dealers and workshop managers lies in segmentation. The BMW R 1300 GS customer base is notably diverse: long-distance tourers, weekend adventurers, off-road enthusiasts and performance-oriented riders coexist within the same model family.

A differentiated filter range enables targeted upselling strategies aligned with riding profile and regional conditions, while the reusable dry technology provides an additional argument in terms of lifecycle cost reduction.

With the adventure segment continuing to represent a strategic pillar for premium motorcycle brands, the availability of platform-specific performance components - particularly for high-volume models such as the R 1300 GS - is expected to play an increasing role in dealership aftermarket revenues.


SPRINT FILTER

www.sprintfilter.com