FCAI

Australian powersports units -3.7% in 2023 

The latest available data from the FCAI, the automotive and motorcycle industry association in Australia, show the Australian motorcycle market worth 95,980 motorcycles and OHVs in total in 2023, a -3.1% decrease from 2022.

Off-road motorcycles totalled 40,138 units, a -3.7% decrease, and road motorcycles were down by -3.0% at 35,122 units.

Bucking the trend, scooters experienced a strong increase in sales, up by +15.4% (6,135 units) on the previous year.

The OHV segment sold 14,585 units, a decrease of -7.8% compared with 2022 figures.

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries Chief Executive Tony Weber said rising interest rates and cost of living pressures contributed to the decline in overall sales for 2023. “As Australians manage tighter finances, recreational products are often the first to be affected.

"Recreational products, including motorcycles, often bear the brunt of financial constraints during challenging periods. The decrease in motorcycle sales underscores the impact of economic pressures on discretionary spending.

“An increase in scooter sales points to changes in consumer preferences in the Australian market with new riders venturing onto our roads, taking advantage of easier parking and quicker commute times.

"In 2024, Australians can look forward to advancements in technology, increased connectivity, safety features, the rise of battery electric power, and a diverse range of product choices for consumers."

MIC

United States - 2023 motorcycle sales +2.6%

The MIC is reporting that among leading brands, 2023 sales of new motorcycles and scooters in the United States increased by +2.6% over the previous year, while ATVs decreased 

-5.2%. Motorcycles and scooters accounted for 74.8% of the 2023 sales and ATVs represented 25.2%.

"Small displacement bikes have taken centre stage with remarkable growth in 2023," said Buckner Nesheim, MIC Director of Research and Statistics. "Leading the pack, small-displacement ADV ("dual-purpose") motorcycles recorded a significant 62% increase from 2022, highlighting the continued preference for adventurous riding experiences. 

"Moreover, small-displacement sport bikes, with the 0-500 cc category increasing 26%, secured the second-highest growth in motorcycle categories, and may be signalling a trend of road-going newcomers."

Akrapovic

Akrapovic for Suzuki V-Strom, Honda Transalp and CB750 Hornet

Three new exhaust additions here from Slovenian manufacturer Akrapovic - a new Slip-On Line (titanium) for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE "with a dynamic design that has been specially crafted for Suzuki’s latest adventure motorcycle", and two Slip-On Line designs added to its Honda collection - one each for the pair of Hondas that use the same 750 cc parallel twin - in titanium for the XL750 Transalp and carbon for the CB750 Hornet.

Constructed using race-proven materials, including high-grade titanium for the muffler outer sleeve, a stainless steel link pipe and muffler inner structure, and a carbon fibre end cap and heatshield, the slip-on for the V-Strom is then finished with "special imprints to provide an impressive visual statement. 

Suzuki V-Strom 800DE

"The new carbon-fibre heatshield - which is included in the package - has been designed from scratch to complement the exhaust, with its shape totally covering the link pipe to help protect the passenger gear from heat".

Akrapovic says that the focus for its engineers was on the throttle response and rideability of the V-Strom 800DE, "with noticeable power gains in the mid and high rpm range. When tested on the Akrapovic in-house dyno, the Slip-On Line (titanium) produced a power increase of +1.1 kW (1.5 hp) at 6,000 rpm and a torque gain of +1.3 Nm at 6,100 rpm, compared to the stock exhaust. 

Weight has also been reduced through the use of lightweight materials, with the EC/ECE type-approved Slip-On Line (titanium) delivering a reduction of -23.6% (1.2 kg) over stock.

Transalp

Both the new Honda systems have been made "using race-proven materials" with the titanium slip-on for the XL750 Transalp featuring a black-coated outer sleeve on the muffler, a newly designed end cap and a bracket, all made from lightweight titanium. These are accompanied by a stainless steel link pipe and muffler inner structure. 

Performance gains are in the in the mid and high rev ranges, with an increase in power of +0.7 kW (0.9 hp) and a torque enhancement of +1.3 Nm - both at 5,700 rpm - when compared to a standard stock system. 

CB750 Hornet

For the CB750 Hornet the Slip-On Line (carbon) also focuses on power and torque gains in the mid- and high-range revs. Increases of +0.5 kW (0.7 hp) at 5,250 rpm and +0.6 Nm at 5,300 rpm have been recorded. 

The use of lightweight materials reduces the weight of the Slip-On Line (titanium) exhaust by 39.8% (1.6 kg) and of the Slip-On Line (carbon) system by 45.6% (1.8 kg) compared to stock. 

These EC/ECE type-approved Euro 5 systems need no remapping - they are a mod-free plug-and-play installation. Both are fully compatible with the original Honda soft panniers.

AKRAPOVIC 

www.akrapovic.com

Società Genarale Ricambi (SGR)

Energy Safe - transport-friendly AGM VRLA battery technology

Owned in Italy by Accu Italia, Energy Safe is a line of industrial and multi-application batteries produced by a company that can trace its origins back to the 1950s. More recently, the ES branded motorcycle battery programme was created in 2013 as a joint venture between Società Genarale Ricambi (SGR) and Accu Italia - two businesses with a shared heritage.

Accu Italia was founded by engineers Franco and Alberto Saporetti to distribute German made VRLA batteries with GEL technology. Fast forward, and SGR is owned by their descendants and operated by Chairman Andrea Saporetti.

For over thirty years, Energy Safe 6-12V batteries have had an excellent reputation for innovation, quality and reliability. Drawing on the R&D that has gone into making the brand, Energy Safe is a major player in the industrial sector. In motorcycle industry terms, that has given the ES brand the platform to build a range of increasingly efficient technological solutions and an entry into MotoGP as technical sponsor of the LCR Honda team. 

"This partnership offers even more opportunities for the development of high-performance batteries thanks to the data collected during the races and the high demands that race bikes place on their batteries."

Still based on AGM VRLA technology (Advanced Glass Mat - Valve Regulated Lead Acid) and designed to be completely maintenance-free, they are manufactured in accordance with international standards such as IEC 6056-1, 60896-21 and 60896-22.

"Offering a broad spectrum of capacities, from 1 Ah to 204 Ah, Energy Safe meets a wide range of energy needs. The batteries are designed with an expected life of 3/5 years for general purpose models and 10/12 years for long life models at a temperature of 20°C. 

"Furthermore, Energy Safe batteries offer maximum flexibility in terms of transport, being suitable for air, sea, rail and road transport."

Available for use in motorbikes, scooters and ATVs, whether conventional standard batteries, maintenance-free or factory-activated high-performance batteries, ES produces exclusively in ISO:90001 certified factories to guarantee the highest quality standards.

"The Energy Safe portfolio also includes battery chargers and testers with the latest technology - for the maximum possible service life of your battery."

SOCIETÀ GENERALE RICAMBI

www.sgr.it.com

Supersprox

Supersprox 'Performance' chain and sprocket kits 

Supersprox is adding to its Performance chain and sprocket kits with these new options for the Honda CBR 125 R B-D (2011-2016) an the KTM Duke 125 from 2011 and up.

Already available from Supersprox distributors in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, the manufacturer is additionally looking for distributors  who see the potential for the Supersprox range of 47 branded Performance kits in their own markets - additional applications are expected to be added in the summer 2024.

Supersprox CEO DJ Maughfling told IDN: "Our clients are demanding better solutions for the growing market of Chinese, Indian and exotic motorcycles. This range will be popular because Supersprox understands the market requirements and is able to offer high quality for these budget bikes. 

"After 60 years in the business of drive systems, we know what is important for the new generation of motorcycle users. We have taken away features that are specific to racing and added features that prolong the life of the drive system. For this range, we have focused on the hardening of the sprocket teeth."

The rear sprocket has added 45HRC surface hardness - which it is possible to see at the base of the tooth. This 1 mm deep layer will extend sprocket life by 40% compared to other sprockets that don't have induction hardening. "We understand that the sprockets will be used in all weathers and the bikes might be parked outside. Supersprox 'Performance' sprockets are zinc- plated to eliminate possible rusting - because rust is very abrasive on the chain and reduces system life."

The drive sprockets are case-hardened and have a surface hardness to 55HRC. This is the same hardness as Supersprox racing sprockets and is a known standard that gives excellent performance and complements the hardness of the chain. 

The chains have solid bushes to reduce friction and keep all the parts running smoothly. For bikes with 520/525 chains, there is an affordable upgrade option with sealed links.

SUPERSPROX 

www.supersprox.com

HP Corse

HP Corse 4-TRACK S for TRK 502X

The adventure version of Benelli's 500 cc crossover, the TRK 502 X, has the same Euro 5 in-line two-cylinder engine for a maximum power of 47.6 hp at 8,500 rpm and a peak torque at 6,000 rpm of 46 Nm.

Italian exhaust manufacturer HP Corse's Euro 5 homologated octagonal body, Euro 5 compliant 4-TRACK S is available in a choice of satin steel and black ceramicised versions.

Approved to Euro 134/2014 and 2016/1824 G standards, features include 350 mm stainless steel jacket, hand-brushed octagonal case backs, single-outlet Rally spout, TIG-welded couplings, slip-on fitting, vibration-absorbing and reinforced frame mounting bracket.

HP CORSE by STEELFORM SRL

www.hpcorse.com

Galfer

Brake discs and pads for pit and Mini GP 

Barcelona based brakes specialist Galfer has introduced a new catalogue of brake discs and pads designed exclusively for Mini Motos, covering both pit bikes and Mini GP bikes.

Mini Motos - compact motorcycles with small engines - have gained popularity among adult enthusiasts as well as professional riders and children entering the sport. Intended for tarmac circuits only, these motorcycles feature two types of engines (two-stroke from 60 cc to 85 cc and four-stroke from 90 cc to 212 cc) with 10 and 12" wheel sizes.

Galfer is offering a complete range of brake discs and pads designed to enhance the original performance of Mini Motos from renowned brands such as Bucci Moto, Ohvale, Help Racing, MIR Racing, IMR, YCF, Malcor, etc. Galfer products not only optimise braking efficiency, but also guarantee safety and exceptional performance.

This new catalogue also includes sintered brake pads specifically designed for replacement calipers from leading brands such as Formula, J.Juan and 8.1. Galfer says that "our advanced technology translates into powerful and precise braking, ensuring total control over these small but powerful machines".

www.galfer.eu

Brake Discs

Fixed Disc Wave W: The fixed disc features internal and external wavy brake tracks, ensuring even brake pad wear at all times. With a larger outer perimeter, it achieves improved heat dissipation in the friction zone, ensuring consistent and reliable performance. It is manufactured from high-carbon stainless steel by laser-cutting and is painted by an EPD process to prevent corrosion.

Floating Disc Wave FLW: The Floating Disc Wave is an improvement over the fixed version, achieving a thermal break between the brake track and the core. Thanks to the connecting pins, this disc has the ability to float, allowing axial movement and expansion of the track relative to the core. The wavy design of the track allows for even wear of the brake pad and better cooling. It is manufactured from high-carbon stainless steel by laser-cutting and is painted by an EPD process to prevent corrosion, ensuring durability and resistance over time. 

Brake Pads

Semi-Metallic G1054: The semi-metallic compound offers an excellent balance between performance, durability and price. Its performance is unbeatable in cold conditions (0-150°C) and it is very quiet. It also significantly reduces disc wear and requires a very short running-in time. 

Sintered Metal G1370-96: A compound that can withstand high temperatures, which guarantees maximum durability. It provides exceptional thermal stability and stands out for its powerful braking power and great control, allowing accurate movements at all times. It is the ideal choice for a reliable and effective braking experience. 

Galfer to continue MXGP adventure until 2026

Galfer continues to leverage the rise of its reputation for superior braking performance in Motocross with renewal of its partnership as the official sponsor of the FIM Motocross World Championship for another three years.

This news follows its announcement earlier this year that it will be a Technical Partner in the debut of the Ducati Desmo 450MX in the Motocross world.

Galfer says that "we have been an undisputed leader and a benchmark brand in the two-wheeled sector and international competitions for over 70 years. This has allowed us to continuously carry out development work that has led us to become the number one choice of many top teams and top riders at the top of motorcycle sport today. 

"In asphalt racing, such as MotoGP and WSBK, as well as in the off-road world of MXGP, EnduroGP, TrialGP and Extreme Enduro, Galfer is the first choice of major motorcycle manufacturers such as KTM, GasGas, Beta Motor, Triumph, Ducati, MV, Sherco and TM Racing".

Galfer braking systems have helped secure 90 two-wheeled World Championships over the last decade, in the hands of riders such as Nancy Van de Ven, Toni Bou, Steve Holcombe, Ken Roczen, Emma Bristow, Brad Freeman, and many others. 

"We will continue to make great strides in Motocross in 2024 with supported riders such as Ben Watson and Ivo Monticelli, Isak Gifting, Kevin Brumann, Yago Martinez, Kiara Fontanesi, and, perhaps one of the most exciting of all, is the involvement in Ducati Corse's first Off-Road project with riders Antonio Cairoli and Alessandro Lupino. In total, over 25 riders across the classes will use and work with Galfer at the highest level of the Motocross World Championship".