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

Hero MotoCorp

Hero expands internationally 

By Ben Purvis

Hero MotoCorp is already the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer by volume but remains a relative unknown in Western markets - something that the company is hoping to change as it launches into the UK, having already operated an R&G centre in Munich for some time and started selling in Spain and Italy.

The Euro5+ compliant export range is led by the Hunk 440, an A2-licence-legal machine with a fairly basic design including an air-cooled, two-valve single-cylinder engine, measuring in at 440 cc and making 27 hp at 6,000 rpm and 36 Nm at 4,000 rpm. 

It's bolted to a six-speed transmission and packed into a steel trellis frame with KYB upside-down, 43 mm forks and dual rear shocks. A twin-piston ByBre caliper grips the 320 mm front disc, with ABS, and there are 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends, with 110/70 rubber at the front and 150/60 at the rear. It's essentially a straightforward, distilled essence of a motorcycle with little to stand out from the competition beyond a bargain price tag that puts it toe-to-toe with the likes of the new BSA Bantam - a machine with a similar set of specifications but a more recognisable brand name - but also into competition with the likes of the hugely successful Honda GB350S.

The Hunk is, notably, similar to the Indian-market Harley-Davidson X440 in terms of its engine and chassis. Hero designed and builds the X440 on Harley-Davidson's behalf as part of a partnership that also sees it distribute H-D's higher displacement bikes in India, and there's much speculation that the machine could get an international launch - perhaps as the basis of the long-expected 'Sprint' model that has been confirmed to be coming to Harley range in 2026 as a sub $6,000 entry level machine.

ARAI

ARAI – FIM homologated MX-V EVO Racing #2

Late last year, Arai Helmet Europe announced that its FIM Racing #2 has received official homologation and was live on the FIM website as part of its FRHP-he02-approved helmets list.

This certification, issued by the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), validates the MX-V EVO FIM Racing #2 to meet all performance requirements for use at the highest levels of international motorcycle competition. The homologation includes compliance with the FIM's advanced criteria, designed to elevate rider protection in modern off-road racing environments.

The new MX-V EVO FIM #2 is Arai's first off-road helmet homologated to the FIM FRHPhe-02 standard, which became mandatory effective 2026, "and is the go-to helmet for racing in FIM sanctioned off-road events. 

"The MX-V EVO FIM Racing #2 has been developed from the MX-V EVO, and decades of accumulated expertise in protective gains, combined with years of Arai's competition experience."

The helmet incorporates Arai's proprietary Peripherally-Belted Complex Laminate Construction (PB-cLc2) for a strong yet lightweight shell; optimised impact-energy distribution, designed around the principle of "Glancing Off" performance; updated peak design to enhance stability and airflow in competitive conditions and refined ventilation channels "for improved cooling during long, physically demanding events".

With no exaggerated edges or protrusions - a staple of Arai design – "the R75 shape is the reason that the MX-V FIM #2 is the first Arai off-road helmet homologated to the FIM FRHPhe-02 standard without significant changes."

Key to this is Arai's belief in the egg shape of its helmets. Taking the strongest shape in nature as inspiration, "the rounder, smoother, and stronger characteristics of an Arai shell define every helmet made, and the MX-V EVO is no different." It is available in White only in sizes XS - XL, through Arai's authorised dealer network and distributors. 

www.araihelmet.eu

Dold Industries

Ventura Luggage System

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 over 2,500 models. The range is an ergonomic, modular and robust, easy-mount system that is secure and safe, versatile and durable.

The 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 model specific bundled kits. Simple, robust, versatile and durable are the keywords here. The central mounting component is the company's L-bracket, and, as with all the racks, they are made in mild steel tube and satin black powder-coat finished.

The system is available for a wide range of established best-sellers and late-models, including the 2025 and up Yamaha MT-07 LA, HO, Y-AMT as seen here, CF Moto 800 MT-X, 2025 Triumph Tiger Sport 800, Honda GB 750 XP and most of the Kawasaki Ninjas. 

Recent additions to the range of Ventura Bike-Pack systems include the EVO-25 Dry Pack and an upgraded EVO-22 Jet-Stream III pack.

DOLD INDUSTRIES

www.ventura-bike.com

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 - 19-21 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 19 to 21 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."

News Briefs

British MX wheels specialist Talon Engineering has gone out of business. Based in Yoevil in England's rural southwest, Talon was founded in 1972 by George Sartin, an aircraft industry engineer. It quickly became established as a leading European MX wheels specialist with a global reputation for manufacturing, materials and quality excellence. In 2021 Talon was acquired by Sprit Motorcycles, a British GP2 championship-winning team headed up by Rod McDonagh. Investment, expansion and diversification followed, but so did financial issues. Ultimately, a perfect storm of ambition crashing into the economic realities of the current motorcycle industry appears to have been too much for the wheel maker.

The biennial World Ducati Week will be staged again this year, from July 3-5, at the Misano World Circuit and the Adriatic Riviera (the resorts on Italy's east coast); www.ducati.com

Established in 1980, German motorcycle P&A/G&A retailer Polo Motorrad und Sportswear GmbH (better known simply as POLO Motorrad) filed for self-administration proceedings November 18, 2025. 

BAJAJ Mobility AG (formerly PIERER Mobility AG) has announced estimated revenue and sales figures for 2025 that put revenue at over € 1bn (-46%), with motorcycle sales of 209,704 units (-28%), which Bajaj suggests represents a "positive trend". Inventory has been reduced by more than 100,000 units; at 64,110 sales of e-bicycles and bicycles were -40% and approximately 500 jobs have been eliminated in the Group. The Group sold 80,464 motorcycles in the second half of 2025, representing a 60% increase on the first half of the year (H1: 50,334 units). In addition, 43,956 motorcycles (H1: 34,950 units) were sold in H2 via strategic partner Bajaj Auto. 

 In the United States the Congressional Budget Office recently projected that the U.S. government will spend $1tn on interest payments for its debt in 2026. It also projected that the U.S. government will spend $1.853tn more than it brings in through revenue this year (the budget deficit) and have an even wider gap in 2027. U.S. government debt has increased from $13.7tn in 2010 to more than $38.tn as of February 2026.

Touratech has announced 5-7 June for its 2026 Touratech Travel Event at festival grounds surrounding the Touratech headquarters in Niedereschach, southern Germany.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announced consolidated business results for the full 2025 fiscal year ended December 31, 2025 with revenues in its Land Mobility Business (which includes motorcycles & PTWs) of 1,615.1bn yen (+ 5.6bn yen/0.3% compared with the previous year) and operating income was 108.7bn yen (+ 4.7bn yen/4.6%). In its motorcycle business in developed markets, unit sales increased in Japan, but declined slightly overall due to lower demand in Europe and the U.S. In emerging markets, unit sales decreased in Vietnam, where production and shipments were temporarily halted, but rose in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. As a result, total unit sales and revenue were on par with the previous fiscal year. Operating income fell overall due to higher procurement costs, increases to R&D spending, labour costs, and other SG&A expenses, the tariffs enacted by the U.S. and other developments.

After a successful launch in North America, Veemo is now expanding to Europe through a partnership with GEOBIKE in Poland. Assembled locally within the EU, Veemo is a semi-enclosed, three-wheeled electric vehicle.

FEMA says that "technical inspections for motorcycles are a solution looking for a problem", claiming that the EU's effort to expand mandatory Periodical Technical Inspections (PTI) to all motorcycles is not backed up by the claim that 'testing improves safety'. FEMA's Wim Taal says that "the evidence does not support that claim".

British crash protection specialist R&G has returned as an Official Sponsor to the new-look ZYN British Superbike Championship, marking the brand's 12th consecutive season supporting the highly competitive series.

ACEM

ACEM - 2025 registrations -12.9%

According to 2025 annual registrations data release by ACEM (the Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association for Europe) new motorcycle registrations in five of the largest European markets (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK) reached 1,002,848 units during 2025. 

This represents a decline of -12.9 % compared to the same period in 2024 (1,150,852 units). 

Motorcycle registration volumes increased in Spain (242,580 units, +8,3 % year-on-year) while in other markets, results were negative with Italy -6.0% (331,634 units); France -16.4% (179,225 units); UK -19.3% (89,645 units) while Germany was massively down, losing a third of its market compared to 2024, at -35.7% (159,764 units).

Moped registrations reached a total volume of 142,060 units in the six European moped markets monitored by ACEM (i.e. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain). This registration volume represents a reduction of -20.7 % in comparison to last year at the same period in 2024 (179,231units). 

Commenting on these registration figures, Antonio Perlot, ACEM Secretary General, said that "the 2025 figures confirm the anticipated market correction following the Euro 5+ transition, with motorcycle registrations returning to just over one million units. 

"While this represents a -12.9% decline compared to the exceptional performance of 2024, which was significantly driven by stock registrations ahead of the new emissions standard, it is important to view these results in a longer-term perspective. 

"Compared to the pre-pandemic period, motorcycle registrations remain robust, going up by +14.7% in the five years since the pre-Covid 2019 levels, demonstrating that the growth in consumer interest for powered two-wheelers has been consistent, including a continued shift from mopeds to motorcycles.

"Despite the challenging economic backdrop in Europe, the L-category continues to show resilience, remaining an attractive option for both mobility and leisure. As we look to 2026, we will need to wait for the first half of the year to better assess how the market evolves."

www.acem.eu

Learn - Ride - Enjoy - Repeat 

ACEM used EICMA to mark the closing of its 'Learn - Ride - Enjoy - Repeat' programme.

A European campaign run by ACEM and the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), it was aimed at encouraging both novice and experienced riders to pursue high-quality, voluntary motorcycle training.

Launched in April 2025, the campaign engaged 44 organisations across 23 countries, reaching thousands of riders through digital outreach, media engagement, and partnerships. 

A central achievement of the initiative was the launch of the Instructor Guidelines for Voluntary Motorcycle Training, developed in collaboration with European Motorcycle Training Quality Label certified schools and leading academic institutions. 

Grounded in scientific accident analysis, the guidelines address the most common accident scenarios for powered two-wheelers and aim to raise the standard of post-license training across Europe. 

Galfer

Galfer makes 2026 AMA Supercross debut at Anaheim

Galfer made its debut in the prestigious 2026 AMA Supercross Championship, marking a first outing for the brand during the Anaheim 1 season-opening race held on at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California in January.

For this event, riders of the Troy Lee Designs Red Bull Ducati Factory Racing Team took to the track on the Desmo450 MX equipped with Galfer Shark brake discs, both front and rear - "key components chosen by the team for their exceptional performance and reliability under the extreme conditions that are typical of Supercross."

Galfer's race pedigree means it is bringing a strong technical legacy to the premier American Supercross championship, with its braking technology already having been previously adopted and proven by several competitive Supercross teams and motorcycles. 

"In the United States, Galfer components have been part of high-level racing programs, such as the Rockstar Husqvarna Factory Racing team in 2022, which fielded top riders like Malcolm Stewart and Dean Wilson. Galfer components have also been proven by prominent AMA Championship riders such as Jason Anderson, 450SX Champion in 2018, and Ken Roczen, known for numerous wins and podiums in the premier class."

This direct experience with American tracks and riders has strengthened Galfer's technical expertise under the extreme conditions typical of U.S. Supercross and "represents an important precedent for Ducati's choice to rely on Galfer for its debut in the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship. By entering such a demanding competitive environment, Galfer confirms its ability to provide elite braking solutions for the most prestigious events in motorcycle racing."

The debut of the Troy Lee Designs Red Bull Ducati Factory Racing Team, supported by Galfer, at Anaheim immediately showcased the effectiveness of the Shark discs: Dylan Ferrandis finished ninth in the Main Event, demonstrating consistent pace and competitiveness on a challenging track, while Justin Barcia, despite a strong qualifying pace, was forced to retire following a crash in the early stages.

"The on-track performance is the result of the advanced features of Galfer Shark brake discs, chosen by the team to ensure greater braking power and modulation, high thermal stability, up to 30% reduction in operating temperatures, longer pad life, and a lightweight yet durable design - perfect for the extreme demands of Supercross."

www.galfermoto.com

GPR Tech

GPR Tech Titanium top case

For four years now, GPR (Milan, Italy) has been diversifying the exhaust programmes it has been known for since 1968.

Since 2022, the still family owned and operated company has additionally been active in the accessories market, principally with high-end luggage solutions for the ADV segment.

At EICMA in November 2025, brothers Mauro and Luigi Orlandi unveiled the latest additions to their well-received range of titanium top cases for scooters with a 35 litre capacity option that is already on the market for models such as the Honda SH 350 and new Sym ADX 300 and ADX TG 400.

The entire body of the top case and the side handles are made of titanium to maximise weight savings, and the model specific support plate is available in either satin stainless steel or titanium - and are available with a soft backrest included in the price.

The titanium top case is a GPR Tech exclusive, which also offers aluminum options and additional capacities for the same models.

GPR ITALIA S.R.L

www.gprtechparts.com

Gravity Sports

O'Neal 'Challenger'

European O'Neal importer and distributor Gravity Sports says the new O'Neal 'Challenger' dual shell ABS full-face with double EPS for increased safety and optimised fit features multiple air vents for optimal ventilation and cooling.

Additional features include Microlock closure, removable, sweat absorbing and washable padded comfort liner, Bluetooth ready with internal speaker cavities and rubber hoop at the back of the helmet (Bluetooth unit not included). It is Pinlock ready with clear visor plus secondary integrated sun visor and meets new ECE 22.06 test standards.

O’NEAL EUROPE

www.oneal-b2b.com

Supersprox

Supersprox, Dakar and the River Danube

The 2026 Dakar rally closed with Luciano Benevides KTM, taking victory by the smallest of margins, from Ricky Brabec Honda. Racing is tough, no matter how small the margin, there can only be the one winner. 

Those margins don't only live with riders and their teams. They affect sponsors too, especially the technical sponsors - they share the win or lose mentality.

Race preparation for Dakar in 2015

The Dakar Rally may have changed in recent years, but it remains one of the world's top challenges. Between 13-15 days of racing and navigation, with marathon stages, where the riders are not able to be assisted by the teams. 

Covering about 5,000 km (3,000 miles) of racing stages and, after 49 hours of full speed racing, in January 2026, the first and second position riders were separated by only 2 seconds. Dakar is THE test for the riders and the machines who enter and Supersprox has supported the top teams every year since their first Dakar experience in 1986. 

Was a successful undertaking for them? Judge for yourself. During that time, Supersprox hybrid sprockets were fitted on the winning bikes no less than 21 times. In a highly competitive sector, characterised by claim and counter claim [like most motorcycle industry segments] that is HUGE.

KTM and Supersprox have a total of 21 Dakar Rally victories from 2001 to this year. Starting in 2004, with Nani Roma, Supersprox has been on KTM, Honda, GasGas, Husqvarna, Yamaha, Hero and probably 95% of all privateer bikes at Dakar.

Dakar 2019

When it invented the Hybrid (dual material) sprocket in 1998, Supersprox subsequently spent several years refining and perfecting the concept, trying to work out the correct way to combine the two materials in production processes that guaranteed reliability and durability.

In early 2004, Supersprox CEO (DJ Maughfling) visited KTM to show the first 'ready to race' Supersprox-stealth sprockets. DJ says: "KTM production staff were cautious about the idea at first. They simply had not seen anything like that before. They told me that they wanted to make at least six months of tests on the concept before committing themselves. I left them 10-15 samples and thought nothing more about it. 

Cyril Despres, five-time Dakar winner with Supersprox

"You need to remember that KTM was much smaller back then and they had only started to have Dakar success quite recently at that stage - in 2001 when Fabrizio Meoni won the event. What happened was that when the KTM race team mechanics saw the sprocket they immediately thought it was a great idea. They decided to fit it on Nani Roma's 2004 Dakar bike and go race with it. 

"The result was almost a disaster for the team, with several of the sample sprockets breaking. I remember driving back to KTM after the race to collect the remaining sprockets in my car. I was so disappointed with the first result that I threw the sprockets into the River Danube before driving from Austria back into Germany.

Luciano Benevedes, 2026 Dakar winner

"We could have given up at that moment, and the hybrid sprocket would never have existed. I don't like to lose and being told that the product was not good enough, was a real motivation for me to prove that we were good enough. Being the underdog is sometimes an advantage and a big motivation. 

"The team must have thought that the concept had something going for it, because over the next 20 years, we have been providing them with race parts and using the results to improve the sprockets that we sell to our distributors and dealers. Their customers really are buying a genuine factory race sprocket. A lot of brands make that claim but with Supersprox' Stealth sprockets it literally is true."

Every common product that we take for granted has an origin story. Supersprox Stealth sprockets are no exception, and their existence is closely connected to KTM, Dakar, Rally and extreme races. The Supersprox motto is "Extend your journey". It is not only a catchy phrase. In the case of Supersprox Stealth, it is engineered into the product DNA. "It is the Stealth's raison d'etre," says DJ.

Dakar - 2004 - 2026 Winning With Supersprox 

2004: Nani Roma (ESP) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2005: Cyril Despres (FRA) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2006: Marc Coma (ESP) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2007: Cyril Despres (FRA) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2008: Cancelled

2009: Marc Coma (ESP) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2010: Cyril Despres (FRA) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2011: Marc Coma (ESP) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2012: Cyril Despres (FRA) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2013: Cyril Despres (FRA) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2014: Marc Coma (ESP) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2015: Marc Coma (ESP) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2016: Toby Price (AUS) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2017: Sam Sunderland (GBR) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2018: Matthias Walkner (AUT) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2019: Toby Price (AUS) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2020: Ricky Brabec (USA) - Honda Fitted with Supersprox

2021: Kevin Benavides (ARG) - Honda Fitted with Supersprox

2022: Sam Sunderland (GBR) - Gas Gas Fitted with Supersprox

2023: Kevin Benavides (ARG) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2024: Ricky Brabec (USA) - Honda

2025: Daniel Sanders (AUS) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

2026: Luciano Benevides (ARG) - KTM Fitted with Supersprox

UK motorcycle registration

UK 2025 - full year motorcycle registration -19.42%

As elsewhere in Europe, the latest new motorcycle registration data available from the Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) in the UK for 2025 are not good. The UK motorcycle market, still (presumably) suffering from the 2024 Q4 'pre-reg' Euro 5+ side effects as well as declining consumer confidence, is reports that new motorcycle registrations were down by -19.42% at 89,160 units for the full year (the lower since 2013).

The final quarter of 2025 saw October down by -9.36% (6,729 units), November down by - 25.56% (4,924 units) and December down by -58.26% (4,511 units).

Total PTW sales for 2025 were -19.27% at 93,418 units, reflecting how small the UK moped market is (4,258 units in 2025).

The largest single motorcycle segment in the UK in 2025 was the Adventure market, with 20,032 units sold, followed by the Scooter market (18867 units) and Naked style motorcycle segment (18,392 units sold).

Total electric unit registrations were recorded as 3,282 units, down by -12.5% compared to the 3,750 units registered in 2024. 

Spanish registrations

Spain 2025 - full year motorcycle sales +7.93%

In 2025 full year registration data terms, the one exception among the 'Big Five' motorcycle markets in Europe has been Spain - the only country to have seen market growth. At the time of publication, the most recent available data from ANESDOR (the motorcycle industry association in Spain) put full year 2025 registrations at +7.93% over 2024 (239,729 units).

In Q4, 2024 there were fewer regulation deadline-beating Euro 5/Euro 5+ pre-registrations than was the case elsewhere and, also unlike other 'Big Five' markets, demand for motorcycles and PTWs remains robust. In the past two- or three-years Spain has proven to be the best performing of Europe's major markets in overall economic terms.

The data showed October at +20.56 (24,008 units), November at +9.16% (18,189 units) and December at -24.40% (a still healthy 16,566 units) as the Spanish market lapped such 2024 year-end Euro 5+ 'pre-reg' impacts as were seen there.

In total PTW terms the Spanish market was +7.29% (252,730 units) for the full year.

Honda was market share leader with a 21.4% slice of the action in Spain (54,056 units in total, up by 11.4% on 2024), ahead of Yamaha second (14.1%), Zontes third (8.0%), Voge fourth (6.8%) and Kymco fifth (5.7%). They are followed by SYM, BMW, Kawasaki, Piaggio and QJMotor.

The Yamaha NMAX 125 continues to be the best-selling model (12,260 units/5.3% share), followed by the Honda PCX 125, Zontes 368 G, Sym Symphony 125 and Voge 900 DSX.