CFMoto

CFMoto 800MT-X confirmed for production By Ben Purvis

At EICMA last year, CFMoto showed a concept bike - the MT-X - that was clearly derived from KTM's 790 Adventure and looked very close to being production-ready. Now the finished version of that machine has been type-approved to show that an official launch is imminent.

The finished bike will actually be offered in several forms, with two screen heights and a choice of high or low front mudguards, as well as optional luggage, creating eight different combinations before we get into details like colours.

Compared to the EICMA concept version, the production model is largely unchanged. It gains pillion footpegs and a street-legal exhaust system instead of the race pipe of the show bike, and the concept's Brembo brakes and cowled front discs are swapped for more affordable J.Juan components without the extra plastics, but otherwise the production model has emerged unscathed. 

Mechanically, it uses the 799 cc version of the KTM LC8c parallel twin, as featured in the 790 Adventure and 790 Duke as well as CFMoto's 800MT and 800NK models. All the 799 cc versions of that engine are now manufactured in China by CFMoto and KTM's joint venture, so it's the logical choice. In the 800MT-X it puts out 94 hp (70 kW), giving a top speed of 192 km/h (119 mph), and the bike weighs a respectable 214 kg including fuel or 235 kg for the version with luggage.

That fuel is carried low down in side-mounted tanks, just like the KTM 790 Adventure, and it appears that the frame is also borrowed from the KTM, although the swingarm is CFMoto's own, and the suspension is KYB rather than WP kit. At 1,530 mm, the wheelbase is slightly longer than the 1,509 mm of the 790 Adventure, probably thanks to the changed swingarm.

The 800MT-X marks the first time that a KTM-engined CFMoto has really gone head-to-head with the KTM-branded machine using the same powertrain, perhaps reflecting the ever-closer bond between the two companies.

Evo-X Racing

Evo-X Racing buys the SKeeD protective undergarments brand

After 10 years as distributor for the French market, Evo-X Racing has acquired the SKeeD brand of FFM, FIM, FIM and SFI endorsed protective sport underclothing.

Based near Lyon, SKeeD products are an intermediate layer worn by motorcycle racers and sports riders to protect against any material likely to melt during a high-speed skid, such as a synthetic lining. It also helps limit leather-to-skin heat transfer due to its insulating properties and thus limits the risk of burning.

SKeeD clothing is especially designed for two-wheeler driving. It is made from French manufactured Kermel fibre, which is used to equip elite forces all over the world, such as firefighters or military aviators. It is a unique fibre, boasting extraordinary properties - a high-technology fibre that is intrinsically non-flammable and melt-resistant. "Its qualities also include exceptional comfort and thermal protection, as well as effective moisture management," says Evo-X Racing and new SKeeD owner Sébastien Aubry.

"The deal was sealed with former owner Sébastien Jarrot at the 2024 Salon du Deux Roues in Lyon and new partnerships with French and European teams and dealers are already being established.

"With our ten years of experience in the distribution of the SKeeD brand in France, we have decided to integrate SkeeD into the Evo-X family, thus demonstrating our continuity to offer high-quality and innovative products, faithful to the DNA of Evo-X Racing."

Developed by former French pharmaceutical giant Rhône-Poulenc, the qualities of Kermel are remarkable - remaining unchanged regardless of the weather and the number of washes. It is not a flame retardant applied to the mesh, but instead its qualities are characteristics that are integral and specific to the fibre itself and from the design of the garments it is used for. 

Kermel fibre is a polyamide-imide fibre and is a member of the meta-aramid family. A polyamide-imide polymer is a molecular structure, which is naturally thermostable and fireproof, which means that its temperature does not change, that it is inflammable and that it is heat-resistant.

It can be used constantly in average temperatures of 200 °C. It doesn't start to change until it exceeds 400 °C and even offers maximum protection for a few seconds against very high temperatures (up to 1,000 °C).

The fibre's thermo-stability properties mean it offers great thermal insulation. The fibre does not change temperature in external conditions or on contact with the body, which means body temperature is balanced. As the fibre is unchangeable, its structure does not change under the effect of a liquid. It is therefore non-absorbent, does not retain moisture and dries quickly in the open air.

In terms of undergarment manufacture, Kermel fibre has a smooth surface and is similar to wearing cotton, which gives it a soft, silky touch. It has great flexibility and resistance, which makes it a highly stretchable material.

www.skeed.eu

Bimota

Bimota returns to WorldSBK grid By Ben Purvis

Bimota - now safely under the wing of Kawasaki and on firm financial footing for perhaps the first time in its long history - is to make a surprise return to top level racing in 2025 as it replaces Kawasaki's works outfit on the WSBK grid.

To achieve that goal, the company needs to launch and start to manufacturer a brand new 1,000 cc road-going Superbike, which will be powered by Kawasaki's ZX-10RR engine and launched in the second half of 2024.

KRT Team Manager Guim Roda

Kawasaki might have enjoyed plenty of success in WSBK in recent years, but Bimota's ties to the series date back to the dawn of the championship in 1988, when Davide Tardozzi came oh so close to claiming the first WSB title on his works Bimota YB4. 

He won more races than any other rider that year, but was just beaten to the title by Honda-mounted Fred Merkel. Bimota continued in WSBK until 1992 and returned in 2000 to gain a remarkable race win at Phillip Island with Anthony Gobert on the Suzuki-powered SB8K - a machine that was utterly outclassed by rivals in a season that, for Bimota, was cut short by bankruptcy. A revived Bimota tried again in WSBK in 2014 with the BMW-engined BB3, but was disqualified for failing to meet minimum production requirements.

They won't have those sorts of problems this time, with Kawasaki providing the engines, the financial muscle and the race team itself. To comply with the rules, Bimota needs to manufacture a road-going Superbike around the ZX-10RR's engine, potentially to be called the KB5, and to manufacture a minimum of 125 examples by the time of the FIM's homologation inspection at the start of the next race season, rising to 250 by the end of next year, with at least 250 more to be made in 2026.

Those numbers are big for Bimota, but tiny in Kawasaki's eyes, and perhaps reflect the direction of the market for road-going Superbikes. While European brands like Ducati and BMW are enjoying sales success with the Panigale V4 and M1000RR, Japanese companies have been struggling to find customers for their 1,000 cc Superbikes in recent years. 

Suzuki has already withdrawn the GSX-R1000 from European markets and is doing the same in Japan at the end of this year, and Yamaha is believed to have decided not to upgrade the YZF-R1 to Euro 5+ emissions rules that are required in Europe from the start of 2025. 

Bimota KB4

By outsourcing its Superbike responsibilities to Bimota, Kawasaki can get the cachet and exclusive appeal of a European brand to stay on the Superbike scene without having to update its own ZX-10RR. A Bimota will also be able to command higher prices than a Kawasaki-branded Superbike, making it easier for the project to bank a profit, although it will have to abide by the € 44,000 price cap for machines homologated to run in WSBK.

KRT Team Manager, Guim Roda, said: "In the past 13 years, myself and all of those at the KRT workshop in Granollers have dedicated ourselves wholeheartedly to the Kawasaki Superbike project and garnered seven WorldSBK rider titles in that time, plus numerous team and manufacturer awards. 

"Now - after Kawasaki competed for nearly four decades in the Superbike championship - we are proud to be part of a new era, forming the infrastructure of the new Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team. For sure we will spare some time to reflect on and celebrate the heritage of Kawasaki in Superbike racing, but we are also extremely excited to be a core component of this new Bimota and Kawasaki joint venture. 

"This is an evolution for Kawasaki's approach to the top level of production racing and we are honoured to play our role in this new project. I am confident we have the technology and human resources necessary to succeed and it will be a fresh, energising experience fielding an impressive two rider team in the 2025 Motul FIM WorldSBK Championship."

BS Battery

High-powered bike-specific SLA Max BGZ Series batteries

French battery specialist BS Battery is offering dealers five new Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries for large displacement touring model applications, providing up to 20% more Touring model power.

Part of the company's SLA Max range, these latest generation, factory-activated BGZ batteries are designed specifically for the high cranking amp requirements of high-powered Touring models. 

Features include built-in copper nuts on the terminal to enhance conductivity by up to 50% more than a standard terminal and improve torque, and taller plates for more starting power.

The company says that "the new design and materials combination means something like the BGZ battery is able to keep a Touring bike powered even when it is loaded up with electronic accessories that draw from the battery, such as a GPS or phone charger.

"Our ready to use factory-activated BGZ batteries are maintenance-free and non-spillable. They are the most powerful models in our award-winning SLA Max range with a starting power, life cycle and capacity of up to 20% greater than standard SLA battery technology".

That makes them ideal for big bore V-twin as well as Japanese and European manufacturer 'metrics' and for ATVs and UTV powersports applications. BS Battery says it also has a full range of BGZ/SLA Max compatible chargers and conditioners - such as the pro-grade 'Connect and Forget' BS30, which "can easily serve batteries with up to 60 Ah and 120 Ah (for maintenance), which makes it ideal for larger bikes". Additional features include a multi-axis hook.

It is one of five smart chargers in a range that also includes its sophisticated, reconditioning function-equipped BK20 three-bank smart charger - for simultaneous charging and maintenance of different battery voltages and technologies. 

BS BATTERY

www.bs-battery.com

GIVI

Trekker Alaska aluminium cases

The family of Monokey Alaska aluminium cases includes a pair of 36 litre side cases and two top cases, 56 and 44 litres.  Cutting-edge technical solutions have been adopted in the design and production of this line, with three new patents registered.

A unique line, able to combine remarkable technical equipment with a relatively low price, which positions it as the entry level within the range of GIVI aluminium cases. Made of aluminium in natural finish and matt black versions, they share their design, practicality and Monokey fixing system. 

The opening system, which features 'comb' hinges, provides greater structural rigidity than traditional hinges, as well as eliminating the use of retaining cables once the lid is open. 

The patented WIRELEASE unlocking system enables the release of the case from the plate, or from the side frame, by turning an external knob equipped with a steel cable system. A rear hook allows the case to remain anchored to the frame leaning outwards, allowing the lid to be opened and closed without interfering with the top case or any luggage fixed to the saddle.

All Alaska cases are equipped with sturdy carry handles (two on the top case, one for the side cases) which are integrated into the case frame itself. The four belt-strap loops machined directly from the mould of the angles are essential for securing an additional load.

Optional accessories include a passenger backrest, lid liners and water-resistant inner bags.

ALA36A and ALA36B are a pair of Monokey side cases equipped with matching keys and third cylinder to mount on the top case. The capacity is 36 litres each and the dimensions are 562 x 374 x 260 mm (WxHxD). ALA44A and ALA44B are rear Monokey cases, with a 44-litre capacity (one modular helmet) and dimensions of 464 x 331 x 421 mm. ALA56A and ALA56B are Monokey rear cases, with a capacity of 56 litres (two modular helmets) and dimensions of 559 x 328 x 463 mm. All cases have a maximum load of 10 kg.

GIVI S.P.A.

www.givimoto.com

Morbidelli

Keeway to revive the historic Morbidelli brand

Through MBP Moto (Moto Bologna Passioni), its Bologna based subsidiary, the Chinese Keeway Group has acquired the Morbidelli brand. "The initiative marks a new chapter in the history of MBP Moto, as well as in that of motorcycle innovation, combining the cutting-edge design and technology of MBP Moto with the extraordinary sporting and image heritage of the Pesaro Morbidelli brand," said Dante Bustos, CMO of Keeway Group, when the news was announced in April 2024.

Morbidelli began building wood working tools and then raced motorcycles as a hobby before starting to manufacture bikes for the public in the 1970s.

"This acquisition is a testament to MBP Moto's aspiration for excellence in the motorcycle industry. We are thrilled to welcome a historic premium brand like Morbidelli into our family. It will allow us to blend the legacy of racing and 'Made in Italy' craftsmanship with our vision of the future of motorcycling. Our passion for innovation, combined with Morbidelli's rich heritage, will lead to the creation of motorcycles with an unrivalled blend of performance, design and history."

The Morbidelli range will consist of road and crossover motorcycles from 125 to 1000 cc and scooters between 125 and 500 cc. The first launches will initially concern Europe, the United States and China, and will continue in all the countries where the Keeway Group is present. The product portfolio will also include an initial range of electric motorcycles and scooters starting from the first half of 2025.

The investments and strategy are being described as "long-term" with "Centro Stile Morbidelli" and a new Research and Development Centre being created in Bologna.

Morbidelli started making motorcycles in Pesaro in 1968. The first bike was a 50 cc GP. The first race win was in 1971, with Gilberto Parlotti in the Czechoslovakian Grand Prix, on a 125. In 1975, he won the 125 class World Manufacturers' and Riders' Championship, with Paolo Pileri in the saddle. Between 1975 and 1977 he won a total of seven world titles, between Riders and Constructors, including that of the 250 class in 1977 with Mario Lega. 

Morbidelli made his debut in the premier class in 1970, with a four-cylinder 500, but without particular success, and in 1982 the racing department ceased operations. In 1999 Giancarlo Morbidelli created a museum dedicated to motorcycles in Pesaro, which became one of the most important in the world, but it closed its doors the same year Morbidelli passed away, in 2020 at the age of 85.

In their time, the Morbidellis represented the state-of-the-art of the competitions in which they took part, winning races and titles. The success came from a meeting between Giancarlo Morbidelli and German designer Jörg Möller in Pesaro in 1974. Regarded as a "Wizard" of two-stroke engines, the Morbidelli engines were designed by Möller.

Giancarlo Morbidelli

Morbidelli unveiled a prototype of the first road Morbidelli, the first eight-cylinder road motorcycle ever presented. Called simply 'V8', it was a super-tourer with an 850 cc engine, which, in design terms, derived from the Cosworth Formula 1 engine. To be produced in a limited series of 12 pieces a year and signed by Pininfarina, the definitive version appeared in 1994, and was the most expensive motorcycle in the world.

MBP Moto was founded in 2021 by Keeway Group. At EICMA 2022 and 2023, MBP Moto unveiled a line-up of prototypes that generated widespread interest.

Keeway is owned in China by the Qianjiang Group - the owner of Benelli and QJMotor. It has a portfolio of companies and vehicle brands in more than 100 countries, including Keeway Motorcycles, founded in Hungary in 1999, and MBP Moto. As a shareholder and global distributor of Benelli, the Keeway Group is a multinational company with operations in Italy, Spain, Hungary, Germany, the United States and China. It currently sells over 500,000 PTWs worldwide.

PIERER Mobility

PIERER Mobility European market expansion partnership with ZEEHO

KTM parent company PIERER Mobility AG has announced its role as the importer and distribution agent for ZEEHO - "the innovative new brand poised to revolutionise urban mobility". The ZEEHO range is Chinese manufacturer CFMoto's electric scooter brand.

As part of this collaboration, CFMOTO Motorcycles Distribution GmbH - an entity of PIERER Mobility AG - assumes responsibility for importing and distributing ZEEHO products across five key markets: UK, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Spain.

"Leveraging its extensive network of group dealers and years of experience delivering top-tier products, PIERER Mobility AG is primed to introduce ZEEHO's cutting-edge e-scooters to discerning customers across the five respective markets. The initial rollout includes three models; the AE6+, AE8 S+ and C!TY SPORT, available in the ZEEHO dealer network from summer 2024 onwards".

A launch event to announce ZEEHO's presence in the European market took place in Barcelona in March - "true to its brand values of daring, interactive and impactful, ZEEHO's European launch event embodied the spirit of innovation and adventure".

www.zeehoeu.com