IDNs regular industry registrations data service includes EU data and from Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Switzerland and France, plus news about Japanese motorcycle manufacturer exports to Europe. We also feature motorcycle manufacturer financial information from BMW, Ducati, Piaggio, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki and Kawasaki. Our 18 pages of company and product news includes IDN HOT 100 awards for Premier helmets, Rev'It! apparel, TecMate, Vertex pistons, and Airoh helmets.
40
5,000 10,000 15,000 Spanish May Registrations PTWs Motorcycles 12,492 14,471 11,186 13,202 UNITS +15.84% +18.02% 2014 2015 COMMENT: Now we only have 95% of a recession ................................................Page 4 T HE latest data released by ACEM, the Brussels based international motorcycle industry trade association, says that motorcycle registrations grew by +4.9% during the first four months of 2015 on a year-on-year basis. A total of 295,760 motorcycles were registered between January and April 2015, against 281,950 during the same period of 2014. Year-on-year motorcycle registrations increased in key European markets including Spain (36,025 units, +17.4%), the UK (33,690 units, +13.8%), Germany (62,210 units, +3.8%) and Italy (57,425 units, +1.3%). Registrations were down in France (52,265 units, -2.7%). Total Powered Two-Wheeler (PTW) registrations were up by +0.2 percent for the first four months of the year (January - April 2015). A total of 388,000 powered-two and three-wheelers were registered during the first four months of 2015 in the EU. Registrations were up in Spain (40,380 units, +16.8%) and the UK (36,425 units, +11.7%), but down in Germany (73,220, -0.6%), Italy (64,660 units, -1.2%) and France (75,490 units, -5.6%). A total of 92,250 mopeds were registered during the first four months of 2015 in the EU, whilst 105,130 mopeds had been registered during the same period of 2014, representing a decrease of -12.2%. Registrations increased in Spain (4,360, + 12%), although they decreased in the UK (2,735 units, - 9.6%), France (23,225 units, -11.5 %), Italy (7,230 units, -17.8%) and Germany (11,010 units, -19.8%). However, the latest trade association data for May shows most of the 'major' markets doing better. As reported in the StatZone round-up elsewhere in this edition of International Dealer News, new motorcycle registrations were up by +18 percent in May, +13 percent in the United Kingdom, up by over 10 percent in Italy. As this edition of IDN went to press, the May figures for Germany weren't available yet, but after two 'soft' months at the start of the year, the German trade association's own data showed recovery in March and April with the German market +4.74 percent for the first four months of the year. Even in Switzerland, Europe's sixth largest market, and not included in ACEM’s EU data, new registrations are +14 percent for the first five months. Despite continuing success for Yamaha's MT-07s and 09s, the news for the Japanese 'Big Four' is not so healthy in terms of exports to Europe though, with the latest Japanese motorcycle industry trade association data showing them to be down by -8 percent for the year to April. While France, of all of Europe's primary markets, continues to be faced with multiple local market difficulties as well as a lack of economic confidence, latest trade association data from the CSIAM (for January to April) shows that while total PTW are down by -2.7 percent, the motorcycle market as such may have started to stabilise. After a very bad start to the year, the 24,947 new road-going motorcycle registrations recorded there are only now down by -0.8 percent over the first four months of last year. JUNE/JULY 2015 ISSUE #125 American owner closes Marzocchi ..............................................................................................Page 13 Royal Enfield buys Harris Performance....................................................................................Page 40 EU motorcycle registrations + 4.9 percent for first four months • 1 9 9 8 - 2 0 1 5 • 1 9 9 8 - 2 0 1 5 • 1 9 9 8 - 2 0 1 5 • 1 9 9 8 - 2 0 1 5 18th YEAR an end to market decline in France this year? EXHAUsT GUIDE sTATZONE Pages 10-11 European Commission to set up expert group on sustainable transport OptiMate makes solar charging more efficient NEws ROOM 6-14, 40 TRADE ZONE 36 INDEX 38
Transcript
5,000
10,000
15,000
Spanish May Registrations
PTWs Motorcycles
12,4
92
14,4
71
11,1
86
13,2
02
UN
ITS
+15.84%+18.02%
2014 2015
COMMENT: Now we only have 95% of a recession ................................................Page 4
THE latest data released byACEM, the Brussels basedinternational motorcycleindustry trade
association, says that motorcycleregistrations grew by +4.9%during the first four months of2015 on a year-on-year basis. Atotal of 295,760 motorcycleswere registered between Januaryand April 2015, against 281,950during the same period of 2014.
Year-on-year motorcycleregistrations increased in key Europeanmarkets including Spain (36,025 units,+17.4%), the UK (33,690 units,+13.8%), Germany (62,210 units,+3.8%) and Italy (57,425 units,+1.3%). Registrations were down inFrance (52,265 units, -2.7%).
Total Powered Two-Wheeler (PTW)registrations were up by +0.2 percentfor the first four months of the year(January - April 2015).
A total of 388,000 powered-twoand three-wheelers were registeredduring the first four months of 2015 inthe EU.
Registrations were up in Spain(40,380 units, +16.8%) and the UK(36,425 units, +11.7%), but down inGermany (73,220, -0.6%), Italy(64,660 units, -1.2%) and France
(75,490 units, -5.6%). A total of 92,250 mopeds were
registered during the first four monthsof 2015 in the EU, whilst 105,130mopeds had been registered during thesame period of 2014, representing adecrease of -12.2%.
Registrations increased in Spain(4,360, + 12%), although theydecreased in the UK (2,735 units, -9.6%), France (23,225 units, -11.5 %),
However, the latest trade associationdata for May shows most of the 'major'markets doing better. As reported in theStatZone round-up elsewhere in thisedition of International Dealer News,new motorcycle registrations were upby +18 percent in May, +13 percent inthe United Kingdom, up by over 10percent in Italy. As this edition of IDNwent to press, the May figures for
Germany weren't available yet, butafter two 'soft' months at the start ofthe year, the German tradeassociation's own data showedrecovery in March and April with theGerman market +4.74 percent for thefirst four months of the year.
Even in Switzerland, Europe's sixthlargest market, and not included inACEM’s EU data, new registrations are+14 percent for the first five months.
Despite continuing success forYamaha's MT-07s and 09s, the news forthe Japanese 'Big Four' is not so healthyin terms of exports to Europe though,with the latest Japanese motorcycleindustry trade association datashowing them to be down by -8 percentfor the year to April.
While France, of all of Europe'sprimary markets, continues to be facedwith multiple local market difficulties aswell as a lack of economic confidence,latest trade association data from theCSIAM (for January to April) shows thatwhile total PTW are down by -2.7percent, the motorcycle market as suchmay have started to stabilise. After avery bad start to the year, the 24,947new road-going motorcycleregistrations recorded there are onlynow down by -0.8 percent over the firstfour months of last year.
DISCLAIMERSNo part of IDN may be reproduced or used in anyway without permission. The views contained inIDN are not necessarily the views of the publishers.Every effort is made to ensure that all materialincluded is as accurate as possible, however thepublishers cannot be held responsible for anyerroneous statements, facts, figures or mistakes. Alltrademarks, brand names and other key words areused purely for descriptive purposes. No approval,endorsement of, or involvement in the contents ofIDN is implied by the use of these or any otherwords, names or marks associated with all or anycompanies. All trademarks acknowledged. IDN(ISSN 1354-4074) is published ten times a year byDealer-World.com, 5, Rendlesham Mews,Rendlesham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 2SZ, GreatBritain. Send address corrections to us at theaddress shown on this page, or e-mail to:[email protected]
THE new motorcycle registrations data for Europe so far this yearconfirms the fragility of the recovery that last year's marketstatistics started to show.
While some 65 percent of Europe's motorcycle registrations remain based onjust seven markets (Italy, France, Germany, Spain, UK, Switzerland and Austria)the variables within those individual national markets have internationalsignificance - for motorcycle manufacturers and for parts, accessory,performance, and apparel product manufacturers and brand owners.It can be no coincidence that macro-economic factors and motorcycle
regulatory issues are at their most challenging in the one of the 'Big Seven' wherethere is still very little sign of growth yet - France.While there are signs that the rate of decline is now slowing down in France,
leading the motorcycle industrytrade association there (CSIAM) toforecast a possibly slightly improvedmarket by the end of 2015, at -2.8percent for the first five months ofthe year, the peak selling season forlarger displacements, the Frenchmarket remains conspicuously andcomparatively weak.
The year started equally uncertain in Germany, where trade association datashows sales down in January and February, before recovering to +4,75percent up for the year-to-date by the end of May.
With Italy up by a very encouraging +10 percent for the first five months ofthe year, the UK a very healthy +13.57 percent, +14.36 percent in Switzerlandand Spain up massively by nearly 18 percent, the trend data for the major marketsis robust.However, while upward trends are to be welcomed, they have to be seen in
context - trends don't pay bills, results do, and context is king.The ACEM data puts new motorcycle registrations for the 28 EU member states
plus the two members of the European Free Trade Zone for which data is recorded(EFTA - Switzerland and Norway) at just over 840,000 units in 2014. Thatcompares to a pre-recession peak of nearly 1.6m in 2007 - a near 100 percentdecline - so while welcome, growth rates of between 5 percent and 18 percentin markets that have declined by nearly 100 percent clearly still have years andyears of recovery ahead before we get anywhere near the market we had adecade ago.The ACEM data for France shows motorcycle registrations there peaking at
nearly 240,000 units in 2007, down to a low of 148,000 in 2013 and, accordingto their methodology, slight growth in 2014 to just over 153,000 units.
While the UK and Germany are going to get closer to their 2007 figures sooner,if current trends are sustained, the decline was brutal in Spain, where 270,000sales had collapsed to around 92,000 by 2103, but of the "Big Seven" the Italianmarket has seen the 434,000 motorcycle registrations recorded in 2007 go intocomplete freefall - bottoming out at 154,000 in 2013.
With manufacturers such as BMW, KTM and Ducati regularly reportingall-time production and sales records currently, other manufacturerssuch as Triumph, MV Agusta and Harley-Davidson, Kymco and some
other Asian brands doing well and looking at European expansion, and whilethere are still casualties (EBR and Gas Gas/Ossa being two recent ones), evensome of the traditionally "poor men of Europe" such as Moto Guzzi and otherPiaggio brands doing better than has been the case at times in their storied
histories, it is the originators of thesuperbike boom, the authors of whatuntil recently was the "modern market"story, the Japanese "Big Four", whohave suffered most.Here too though, check this out for
context. In April this year Japanesemotorcycle exports to Europe weredown by nearly 8 percent year-on-year
at 12,742 units; in May of 2007 that figure, by no means the largest month ofthat year, was over 52,000 machines.For the whole of 2003 Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki exports to
Europe totalled over 420,000 units compared to under 158,000 last year.I realise that most of you reading this will know all this, it is not "new news"
after all - but sometimes you have to just take a moment and a deep intake ofbreath to contemplate the sheer size and vertiginous slopes of the mountain themotorcycle industry in Europe has just started to climb.As I have been saying regularly the past 24 months, "better is good", and like
any first gear, the first steps are the toughest and require the greatest of effort.I am not negative about the coming months and years, just suitably cautious.
It is worth remembering just how far we still have to go before anyone thinksthat the recession is over; it isn't - all that has happened is that this year we"just" have 95 percent of it left to endure.I don't want to rain on anyone's parade, but don't put the umbrella down
For their financial year from April2014 to March 31st 2015, net sales inSuzuki's motorcycle businessdecreased by ¥16.1 billion (6.0%) to¥250.5 billion - mainly due to reducedsales in Asia, according to thecompany.
Motorcycle operating income of¥0.1 billion in the previous fiscal yearbecame an operating loss of ¥0.7billion.
Suzuki 's tota l wor ldwideproduction of motorcycles and ATVswas down by -11.2 percent at1,799,000 units (from 2,033,000 in2013/2014). Domestic Japaneseproduction was 154,000 units (-14.7percent) with exports of thosemachines -17.6 percent at 105,000units from 127,000 in 2013/2014.
Total unit sales (including 22,000ATVs) are reported -12.8 percent for2014/2015 at 1,763,000 from2,022,000 in 2013/2014.
Sales in Europe were 45,000 units,-5.3 percent; but up by +0.9 percentfor the first quarter of 2015. In NorthAmerica sales were - 3.9 percent forthe year at 43,000 units; but up by+19 percent for the first three monthsof 2015. Domestic sales in Suzuki'shome market were down -9.5 percent
at 67,000 units for the year, with salesthere for the first quarter of 2015 yeardown a massive -23.6 percent.
Addressing its clear need for whatSuzuki i tse l f i s ca l l ing a"reconstruction" of its motorcyclebusiness, the company says that itintends to "review its omni-directionalbusiness strategy and take aggressivesteps such as selecting andconcentrating the region, product andtechnology, strengthening itsmarketing capability, shortening its
development period, introducing itsproducts in a timely manner andchallenging to implement state-of-the-art technology and design, amongothers, thereby offering value thatexceeds customers’ expectations".
The company went on to say that bydoing so they will be "aiming atrecovering its presence in themotorcycle market".
BMW - fifth consecutive month of growthMAY saw BMW post its fifthconsecutive month of growth,supplying 15,004 motorcyclesand maxi scooters, up by +6.5percent over the 14,088 unitssold in May 2014.In the first five months of theyear BMW has supplied 62,928units, up +6.4 percent overMay 2014. Heiner Faust, Head of Salesand Marketing for BMWMotorrad, said: "The strongestgrowth is coming from Europeand Asia. In Germany alonesales increased by more than1,000 vehicles as compared tothe previous year, and we areseeing especially stronggrowth in China - nearly 100%up (over 1,100 units)compared to the previousyear. We believe the futureprospects for us in theChinese market are verypromising".The new BMW sports tourer,the R 1200 RS, becameavailable in the middle of May
and the company points tothis and the new adventuresports model, the S 1000 XR,becoming available in midJune, as good indicators forcontinued growth in thesecond half of the year."We continue to see strongdemand for our new models.
The launch of the R 1200 RSwent very well, our worldtravel enduro bike, the R 1200GS Adventure, now in itssecond year, is selling wellabove 2014 and we soldalmost 1,000 units of our newSupersports bike, the S 1000RR, in May alone".
BMW anticipate record crowds at their 15th 'BMWMotorrad Days' rally at Garmisch-Partenkirchen inSouthern Germany July 3rd - 5th
6 INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - JUN/JUL 2015
NEWSBRIEFSRICK'S Motorsports Electrics hasannounced a minimum advertisedprice (MAP) policy. Designed tosupport Rick's as a premium brandin the international replacementelectrical component industry, itwill apply to all distributors,dealers and retails sales outletsthat sell the Rick's line.
The Metzeler RoadTec Z8Interact has been named thebest sport touring tyre by theGerman magazine Motorrad.
The man widely credited(blamed?) with bringing Ducatiinto Volkswagen Audi Group(VAG) ownership, FerdinandPiech, has been forced to resignas Chairman followingboardroom disagreements. Piechis a self-proclaimed 'Ducatista',and many observers thought hisacquisition of the Bolognamanufacturer was a 'vanity'exercise. Piech, 78, had beeneffective leader at VAG for some20 years; he is the grandson ofFerdinand Porsche, the designerof the original Nazi eraVolkswagen Beetle.
Hammerhead, the ChineseATV/UTV manufacturerbought recently by Polaris,has been hit by a $560,000fine by the EPA in the UnitedStates for imports of some4,000 uncertified vehiclesinto Texas between 2007 and2011.
Arctic Cat has reported a net lossof $21.5m (from $2.6m loss inQ1 2013/2014) on net sales of$98.9m (-32 percent) for its 4thquarter (ending March 31st2015); net earnings were $4.9mon full year (2014/2015) sales of$698.8m vs. net earnings of$39.4m on net sales of $730.5mfor the prior year.
Polaris continues on theacquisition trail - TimberlandProducts, a dirt/snow bikeconversion kit manufacturerat Sandpoint, Idaho, is thelatest morsel to be gobbled up!
Indonesian motorcycle sales in2015 are expected to reach 6.8million units at most, theIndonesia Motorcycle Associationhas said - down 13 percent fromaround 7.8 million units sold in2014 and below an earlier targetof 7.7 million.
news ROOM
THE Motorcycle & Engine division ofKawasaki Heavy Industries hasreleased financial data for its fullfinancial year (the 12 months fromApril 1st 2014 to March 31st 2014)revealing worldwide sales of 581,000motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and PWCs.This is down from the 590,000 units
sold in its 2013/2014 financial year, butnet sales revenue is up (at 282.4 BnYen, from 278.2 Bn) due to the valueof increased sales of higher valueproducts (especially UTVs in NorthAmerica) relative to the decrease inmotorcycle unit sales seen in LatinAmerica and Thailand.
However motorcycle and relatedproduct sales were up in Europe by7.55 percent at 57,000 units (worth50.1 Bn Yen). The company isforecasting growth to around 60,000units in 2015/2016.While UTV sales (in particular) were
up for Kawasaki in North America,
motorcycle units were down to 49,000from 51,000 in the prior year.Motorcycle and related product saleswere also down in their domesticJapanese market at 15,000 units from19,000.
International Motorcycle Show SeriesFORCED into cancellation of theill-conceived attempt to reviveits Dealer Expo with a pre-Christmas move to Chicagoafter just one year, the nowBritish owned UBM AdvanstarPowersports Group hasannounced an 11 stop tour forits Progressive InternationalMotorcycle Show series laterthis year.In an attempt to salvagesomething from the near 50-year history of its Dealer Expo,the shows will now incorporatea "business-to-businessplatform" that will facilitate
meetings betweenmanufacturers and dealers ineach market."The new B2B platform is beingdesigned to "serve theeducational, information andtraining needs of dealers ineach market." Advanstar saythey are acting "in response toindustry demand", and that the2015-16 IMS nationwide tour"business-to-business platform"will provide "vehicle andaftermarket manufacturers andallied services the opportunityto meet with dealers in each ofthe 11 markets", said Tracy
Harris, senior Vice President ofthe UBM Advanstar PowersportsGroup. www.motorcycleshows.com
Kawasaki unit sales up over 7 percent in Europe for 2014/15
news ROOM
Piaggio reports +9% firstquarter sales revenueIN the first quarter of its 2015 financialyear (January to March 2015) thePiaggio Group says that its two-wheelsector businesses shipped 74,200vehicles (76,500 in the first quarter of2014), for net sales of € 204.1 million(+4.3% from € 195.7 million in theyear earlier period). This includes spareparts and accessories revenue of € 29million, +13.5% from the first quarterof 2014. All the main geographical areas
where the Piaggio Group operates inthe two-wheeler sector reported netsales growth, assisted by a no longeradverse exchange rate effect, a featureof the entire first half of 2014. Revenueamounted to € 139.8 million in theEMEA area (+2.2% from the year-earlier period), € 43.7 million in AsiaPacific (+17.1%) and € 5.7 million in
India (+43.2%). In the scooter segment, the Vespa
brand performed well, with revenuegrowth of +14.1% compared with thefirst quarter of 2014. Growth was alsoreported for the Piaggio Mp3: revenuefor the Group three-wheel scooterrange rose by +12.7% in the firstquarter of 2015 from the year-earlierperiod. In motorcycle terms, growth was
reported for the Aprilia brand(approximately 3,450 shipments in thefirst quarter of 2015, an increase of+3.4% from the year-earlier period)and for the Moto Guzzi brand withapproximately 2,200 shipments andan increase of +6.1%. Beginning inthe second quarter of 2015, bothbrands will benefit from the launch ofimportant new products: the Aprilia
RSV4 and the Tuono 1100 and, for theMoto Guzzi brand, the Audace and theEldorado 1400cc. The company reported "positive
performance" in the first quarter of theyear, and a "general improvement onthe main profitability indicators".Group consolidated net sales in the
first quarter of 2015 totalled € 302million, an improvement of more than+9% from 276.8 million euro in theyear-earlier period. The industrial gross margin for the
first quarter was € 88.1 million, withan increase in absolute terms ofapproximately € 5 million (€ 83.2million in the year-earlier period). Netsales margin was 29.2% (30.1% inthe first quarter of 2014).Operating expense in the first
quarter of 2015 amounted to € 77.3
million (€ 71.5 million in the year-earlier period). Consolidated Ebitdawas up at € 36.3 million, from € 32.5million euro in the first quarter of2014. The Ebitda margin was 12% (upfrom 11.7% in the year-earlier period),a result assisted by "significant costefficiencies" during the first quarter. The Piaggio Group closed the first
quarter of 2015 with profit before taxof € 2 million, up from € 1.8 million inthe year-earlier period. The first quarterof 2015 closed with a net profit of € 1.2 million, a small increase from € 1.1 million in the first quarter to 31March 2014.Net financial debt at 31 March
2015 was € 568.4 million, comparedwith € 492.8 million at 31 December2014. Shareholders' equity at 31March 2015 was € 423.4 million, upby € 10.3 million from € 413.1 millionat 31 December 2014. Piaggio Group capital expenditure
in the first quarter of 2015 was € 21.3million (€ 16.3 million in the year-earlier period), of which € 14.3 millionwas for R&D spending (€ 10.1 millionin the year-earlier period). The PiaggioGroup workforce consisted of 7,782employees, an increase of 148 from7,634 at 31 March 2014; the Grouphad about 3,750 employees in Italy,unchanged from last year.
Piaggio say that the 6.1 percent growth to 2,200 units seen at Moto Guzzi in the first quarter should be boosted forthe rest of the year with the second quarter introduction of the Audace and the Eldorado 1400cc seen here
Ducati see record sales in April 2015ITALIAN manufacturer Ducatihas said it delivered 7,309bikes to customers in April2015, which is up by +29percent on April 2014 andmakes it a record sales monthfor the Bologna based Audisubsidiary - beating theprevious monthly record of6,500 bikes in May 2012.Indeed the company says ithas grown by 10 percent intotal for the first four months
of the year (17,881 units).April saw record growth forDucati in Italy (+ 69%), withthe Ducati Scrambler not onlyits top-seller there.The company says that thelaunch of new products "thatenhance the 2015 Ducatimodel range, including theScrambler, 1299 Panigale andnew Multistrada 1200,contributed to achieve suchpositive results. With their
innovative styles,technologies andperformance they have trulywon over the Ducatisti,together with new customersall over the world."In April 2015 Ducati salesregistered steady growth inEurope as a whole compared
to April 2014, with Germany+52 percent, +54 percent inSpain, +50 percent in the UKand +13 percent in France,which, compared to April2014, shows an increase by52% in Germany, by 54% inSpain, by 50% in the UK, andby 13% in France.
European Commission toset up expert group onsustainable transport
ACEM, the Brussels based motorcycleindustry trade association, hasannounced that following theadoption of Directive 2014/94/EU onthe deployment of alternative fuelsinfrastructure, the EuropeanCommission has announced thecreation of the Sustainable Transport
Forum (STF). The STF will "bring together
Member States and alternative fuelsindustry stakeholders".
The aim is to "enable a structureddialogue and exchange of bestpractices". The group will "provideadvice and technical expertise to the
Commission on the development andimplementation of legislation,policies, projects and programmes inthe field of alternative transportfuels".
It will also "deliver opinions andsubmit reports to the Commission onany matter of relevance to the
promotion of alternative transportfuels in Europe".
Links to the application siteand to more information onthe STF can be found inACEM's news release atwww.acem.eu
THE latest data released by themotorcycle trade association in Italy(ANCMA) shows that new motorcycleregistrations in Italy in May were+10.5 percent at 7,832 units, and thatthe Italian market is +10.01 percent at32,863 units for the year-to-date.In total PTW terms the Italian
market was up by +8.63 percent inMay (21,225 units) and is +3.04percent for the year-to-date (78,549units) - the best May market
performance there since 2013 and thebest year-to-date for the first fivemonths since 2012.The top-selling motorcycle in Italy in
May was the Ducati Scrambler (390units); Yamaha's MT-09 Tracer wassecond, with BMW’s R 1200 GS third;the top-selling scooter was the HondaSH150 (978 units).New motorcycle registrations in
Italy have now been up for four out thefirst five months of the year.
ACCORDING to the latest datareleased by the motorcycle industrytrade association in Switzerland themotorcycle market there was up at3,730 units compared to 3,422 in May2014, and is up by +14.36 percent forthe year-to-date at 15,339 units.In total PTW terms the market was
down slightly in May (-70 units), but is
running at +4.39 percent for the year-to-date at 24,599 units.Yamaha are on top spot in total
PTW market share terms, followed byHonda BMW, Harley-Davidson andBMW; Yamaha are also taking thelargest market share of motorcyclesales, followed by BMW, Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki and Honda.
The top-selling motorcycles areYamaha's MT-07, their MT-09 second,BMWs R 1200 GS third, the MT-09Tracer fourth, with the DucatiScrambler fifth. Some 51.3 percent ofall motorcycle sales in Switzerland areover 500cc.
www.motosuisse.ch
THE latest data released by themotorcycle industry tradeassociation in Japan (JAMA)shows Japanese motorcyclemanufacturer 250cc+ exports toEurope down by nearly-8 percent for April (at 12,742units) and broadly "flat" for theyear-to-date at 67,131 units.To put that in context, this isthe lowest April figure since2011, with April 2007 seeing
the "Big Four" Japanesemanufacturers export some52,000 units to Europe. In 2007the first four months of theyear were worth more thandouble the present level at199,000 units.Exports to the United States(250cc+ machines) were downby a massive -43.22 percent inApril at just 5,466 units and arenow running at -28.45 percent
for the year-to-date at just34,220 machines.In global terms Japanesemotorcycle manufacturerexports of 250cc+ machineswere down by -20.55 percent at23,880 units in April, and -9.2percent for the year-to-date(134,885 units).A lot more Japanese brandmotorcycles and small ccmachines are now coming into
Europe from subsidiary andaffiliate factories elsewhere inthe world, but the data stillmakes alarming reading as thehistorically market-defining"Big Four" look increasinglylike a "Big Two plus a few othermodels" as European andAmerican manufacturers takeever increasing shares of amuch smaller market in Europeand North America.
Japanese 250cc+ motorcycle exports -8 percent in April
10 INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - JUNE/JULY 2015
5,000
10,000
15,000
Italian May Registrations
20152014
19,5
38
21,2
25
UN
ITS
PTWs
20,000
7,08
8
7,83
2MOTORCYCLES
+8.63%
+10.50%
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
Japanese Exports to Europe - April
2015
2014
PTWs MOTORCYCLEs
13,9
02
PTWsWs
14,2
92
12,7
42
13,8
47
UN
ITS
-2.73%-7.98%
Japanese Exports to the US - April
2015
2014
PTWs MOTORCYCLEs
8,21
4
PTWsW
12,0
01
5,46
69,62
6
-31.56%
-43.22%
UN
ITS
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
STAT ZONE
THE latest data released by themotorcycle industry trade association inSpain (ANESDOR) shows newmotorcycle registration in Spain for Mayup by over 18 percent at 13,202 unitswith the year-to-date in Spain up bynearly +18 percent at 49,067 units.This represents a dramatic
continuing recovery for a market thatsaw sales collapse when the recessionhit. This is the 21st straight month ofgrowth in Spain, best May market theresince 2010 and best first four-monthmarket performance since 2011.The strongest growth was in the
large displacement 750cc+ sectorwhere new registrations were up by+27.4 percent in May; sub-125cc "light
motorcycle" sales were +19.4 percent,representing 61.7 percent of themarket; 126-750cc were +10.5percent. Scooter sales were +18.1 percent,
taking 68 percent of the market, withon-road motorcycles +20.3 percentand off-road models +8.6 percent.Jose Maria Riano, the General
Secretary of ANESDOR, said that "thewhole motorcycle sector continued togrow in May, despite PTWs still beingexcluded from government initiativesand incentives such as preferential PIVE(VAT) benefits, as citizens increasinglyvalue the advantages of the bike interms of mobility, parking, reducedcosts and environmental impacts".
THE latest data released by theGerman motorcycle industrytrade association (Industrie-Verband Motorrad Deutschlande.V./IVM) shows new motorcycleregistrations at +3.17 percent inApril at 15,800 units, and +4.75percent at 46,019 units for thefirst four months of the year.With the exception of amodestly better 2013, this is thebest April performance in theGerman market since before2009. For the year-to-date themarket is running at +4.75 unitswith 46,019 new motorcyclesregistered so far - the best first
four months marketperformance seen there sincebefore 2009.In total PTW terms April was+3.8 percent at 21,979 units,and is +3.78 percent for theyear-to-date at 61,799 units -also the best seen since before2009.The IVM, their members anddealers in Germany will berelieved at how sales haveperformed in March and Aprilafter a soft start to the yearsaw sales down year-on-year inGermany in January andFebruary.
German motorcycle registrationsup by +3 percent in April
Spanish motorcycle market +18 percent in May
THE latest data released by themotorcycle industry association in theUK (MCIA) shows new motorcycleregistrations for May up by +13.14percent at 10,856 units, with themarket +13.57 percent for the year-to-date at 44,337 units.In total PTW terms the UK was
+10.74 percent for May (11,638units) and is +11.3 percent for theyear-to-date (47,837 units).This is the best May and year-to-
date sales performance formotorcycles since before 2009. The 'Naked' style (+32.2
percent/9,728 units) and AdventureSport (+22.1 percent/6,051 units)sectors continue to lead the growth in
the UK. Supersport models were up inMay at +11.4 percent and are nowlevel for the year-to-date; the smalltouring bike and sport/tourer sectorswere both down in May (-18.6 and -13.8 percent respectively) and for theyear-to-date (-24.9 and -16.8 percentrespectively).The top selling motorcycle in the UK
in May was the Yamaha MT-07 ABS,with their MT-09 Tracer second. Thetop selling scooter was the HondaPCX 125. Honda take top spot in theUK in market share terms (1,963 unitsin total in May), with Yamaha second(1,779 units), Triumph third (915units), BMW fourth (840 units) andKawasaki fifth (703 units).).
4,000
8,000
12,000
16,000
UK, May Registrations20152014
11,6
38
10,5
09
10,8
65
9,59
5
UN
ITS
+10.74% +13.14%
MOTORCYCLESPTWs
5,000
10,000
15,000
25,000
20,000
German April Registrations
2015
2014
MOTORCYCLE
UN
ITS
21,9
79
21,1
75
RCYCLEMOTORRC
15,8
00
+3.80%
PTWs
15,3
14
+3.17%
5,000
10,000
15,000
Spanish May Registrations
PTWs Motorcycles
12,4
92
14,4
71
11,1
86
13,2
02
UN
ITS
+15.84%+18.02%
2014 2015
INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - JUNE/JULY 2015 11
UK new motorcycle registrations+13 percent in May
news ROOM
Gas Gas in bankruptcy filingSPANISH trials bike manufacturer GasGas has filed for insolvency in theSpanish courts.
As reported by MotoWEEK andInternational Dealer News in February,the company had hit financial troubleand suspended production, butexpected that it would be able to raisethe necessary investment to enable it tocontinue trading.
However, although there are still saidto be parties in negotiations to acquirethe business as a "going concern", todate no investor has agreed a deal, andwith a deal with the shareholders fallingthrough at the last minute, a May 18thbankruptcy filing could result in a courtappointed trustee taking control of thecompany in the coming weeks.
If no deal can be agreed, then thecompany will be sold. Gas Gas isthought to have debts of some € 30million. In January Gas Gas MotosChairman Yariv Gilat said the companyhad been working on a restructuringplan that included new shareholderinvestment to support the company'sgrowth, but that the banks had"delayed their answer" and forced thecompany to "start some legal actions in
order to protect the company and pushthe process forward".
In 2014 the Catalan governmentagreed to provide Gas Gas with € 2million to fund the plan, includingacquisition of new technology toimprove their two and four strokeengine production. That decisionfollowed a € 4 million investment by aninternational consortium in 2013.
Last year it was announced that GasGas would merge with Ossa and re-launch that brand, having previouslyagreed to share production facilitiesand personnel. Ossa was re-launchedin 2009, three decades after itsclosure, and were believed to beproducing around 800 trialsmotorbikes.
Gas Gas itself was founded in 1985,
so was hoping to celebrate its 30thanniversary this year. It is estimated thatthe company was producing some9,000 bikes per year as recently as2012/13, of which 95% were exported,37 percent outside Europe. It is said thatthe company was providing jobs for500 direct and indirect workers.
Early last year Gas Gas reached anagreement with Moto Italia s.r.l., theformer Husqvarna Motorcycles s.r.l, toacquire their two and four stroke enginetechnology, a deal that had theapproval of the Austrian KTM group,who acquired the HusqvarnaMotorcycles brand in early 2013.
Honda 2014/15 powersports unitsales stable at +0.7 percentHONDA has announced that Groupunit sales for the financial year endedMarch 31st 2015 saw the company sell17.765m motorcycles and otherpowersports industry vehicles (ATVs etc).
That is +0.7 percent over 2013/2014,and within 50,000 units of forecast forthe year. For the final quarter of theirfinancial year, the first quarter of 2015,they sold 4.615m units (+0.115 percentover the first three months of 2014).
In overall corporate terms Honda'sfortunes continue to respond totreatment, but there is still quite someway to improve before the impacts of thedownturn are fully behind them.
Consolidated operating income forthe fiscal fourth quarter (January 1, 2015through March 31, 2015) amounted to111.9 billion yen, a decrease of -32.3%compared to the same period last year.
Honda say their performance in the pastyear has been impacted by increases inselling, general and administrative(SG&A) costs, including quality-relatedcosts, and a decline in automobile unitsales in Japan.
These impacts have been greater thanthe benefits received from profit-increasing factors such as strong sales inAsia and favourable currency effectsassociated with depreciation of theJapanese yen.
For the fiscal year (April 1, 2014through March 31, 2015) consolidatedoperating income amounted to 651.6billion yen, a decrease of -13.1%compared to the previous fiscal year;with consolidated net income for theyear -8.9 percent at 522.7 billion yen.
Honda is leaving its quarterly dividendfor the fiscal fourth quarter unchangedat 22 yen per share - the same amount
as for the same period last year. Totalcash dividends to be paid for the fiscalyear ended March 31, 2015 are planned
to be 88 yen per share, an increase of 6yen per share from the previous fiscal year.
SBS Brakes opens US officeSBS Friction, the Denmark basedmanufacturer of brake pads, isresponding to continuedincreased sales in NorthAmerican by upgrading itspresence in the US powersportsmarket with the appointment ofChris Jensen as SBS BrandManager for the USA.Jensen, who will be based in theChicago area, joins SBS fromEric Buell Racing (EBR) where hewas working on supporting EBRdealers worldwide. Before
joining EBR, Chris used to runhis own performance parts shopand has previously worked forperformance specialists such asPirelli, Öhlins and SBS.In addition to the recruitment ofJensen, SBS has announced thatSBS Business DevelopmentManager Johan RauffKristensen, who had beenmanaging the company's V-Twinmarket affairs in the UnitedStates and internationally, isleaving the company in order to
start his own powersportsindustry consultancy, with SBSamong his clients.www.sbs-friction.dk
Johan Rauff Kristensen will beleaving SBS to set-up his own
business
Chris Jensen is taking on therole of SBS Brand Managerfor the USA
12 INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - JUNE/JULY 2015
news ROOM
THE $8.4Bn turnover, 28,000employee Tenneco group, owner ofMarzocchi, has closed the legendaryBologna, Italy based suspensionmanufacturer, resulting in 120 joblosses and leaving a number ofmotorcycle manufacturers looking forreplacement product.
Marzocchi has been in trouble formany years, having well documentedquality control and financial issues.Indeed, Tenneco reduced theworkforce in 2011 but, at that stage,
kept the factory open as a result ofunion pressure. However, the changestaking place in the suspension industrywith the spread of electronicallycontrolled and adjusted systems andsemi-active electronic suspensionsrapidly becoming a de facto standardrequirement for OE product, it isbelieved that Tenneco wasn't preparedto front-up the huge investment thatwould have been required to turn theirloss-making Italian subsidiary around.
Of all people, Tenneco know only
too well the kind of capital investmentand R&D lead time required for gettinginto the electronic suspension market- they are the owners of the giantAmerican automotive shock absorbermanufacturer Monroe.
There had been speculation thatMarzocchi would be a "softclose"with stocks being run-down and thefactory finally closing later this year,but it has now emerged that Tennecohas acted decisively to close thecompany down completely and
sooner. Tenneco acquired Marzocchi in
2008, just as the motorcyclesuspension market bottomed out.Marzocchi was founded in 1948 andwas one of the last few componentmanufacturers left in Bologna's famed"Motor Valley".
Tenneco closes Marzocchi
BMW Motorrad and Alpinestarshave announced that they arestarting "an exclusivecooperation in innovativemotorcycle safety clothingsystems".The first product to be launchedunder this cooperation will be aBMW jacket jointly developedby BMW and Alpinestars,combined with an airbagwaistcoat developed usingAlpinestars’ apparel airbagtechnology. Being co-branded by
both manufacturers, it will beavailable in both male andfemale versions with a publicdebut planned for later this year.Based on the Tech-Air airbagsystem, which is described byAlpinestars as the "world’s firstself-contained street airbagsystem that independentlyfunctions without the need forsensors to be installed on thebike", eliminating the need forthe rider to link a specificmotorcycle to the airbag system.
This means that the airbagwaistcoat offers the freedom toride any bike on any surface atany time - there is norequirement for setting upelectronic pairing between riderand/or passenger andmotorcycle. This BMW/Alpinestars jacket andairbag waistcoat is said to"offer comprehensive upperbody protection includingshoulders, back and frontaltorso. By incorporating its
sensors close to the rider’s bodythe airbag system activateswithout the need for atriggering wireless signal to besent from the bike".
www.bmw-motorrad.comwww.alpinestars.com
BMW and Alpinestars in apparel airbag technology deal
Yamaha European unit sales up by +32 percentin first quarter FOR the first quarter of its new(January - December 2015)financial year, Yamaha's globalnet sales income frommotorcycles was up by +8percent (243.5 billion yen, up18.0 billion yen) compared withthe same period of the previousfiscal year; operating incomewas 10 billion yen, an increase of6.2 billion yen (+164.2%).Yamaha's total global unit salesfor the first quarter of 2015 wereactually down by nearly -14percent (193,000 units) at1,196,000 from 1,389,000 in thefirst quarter of 2014.However, in Europe unit saleswere up by +32 percent/14,000units at 57,000 units from 43,000in the year-ago quarter, and upby +26 percent/5,000 in NorthAmerica at 24,000 units from19,000 last year.Unit sales were down in Asia at -16 percent/187,000 (966,000units, from 1,153,000 in the firstquarter of 2014); in Japan their
unit sales were down - 29percent/11,000 (27,000 unitsfrom 38,000 last year).The company says that unit salesincreased in "developed"markets such as the U.S., wheredemand continues to recover,and Europe where the MT-09TRACER continues to do well.The unit sales decreases seen inAsia and Central and SouthAmerica resulted in overall unitsales being down in globalterms.Net sales income is said to have"surged significantly" thanks toincreased sales of products inthe higher price range indeveloped markets such asEurope and North America.Emerging markets alsogenerated increased incomewith the introduction of newproducts, even though unitnumbers were down.Operating income also increasedin both developed and emergingmarkets. Yamaha say that the
factors generating increasedincome include sales increasesdriven by introduction of newproducts, cost reductions, andyen depreciation absorbing
negative factors such asincreases in administrativeexpenses, development costsand currency depreciation inemerging markets.
Yamaha say the MT-09 continues to drive sales growth in Europe
14 INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - JUNE/JULY 2015
YAMAHA has confirmed the launch ofthe 250cc liquid-cooled MT-25 seriessports model, initially in Indonesia,with first year production of 10,000units targeted.
Yamaha say that the 'MT-25' bringsthe "sporty feeling that is enjoyed inthe everyday speed ranges of the 'MT-09' and 'MT-07' and the character ofthe 'MT' series to the 250cc class."
The riding position is described as
"suited to agile yet comfortable cityriding", with a design that "expressesthe 'mass forward silhouette' andfeeling of mass centralisation sharedacross the 'MT' series with a two-cylinder engine that brings a sense ofelation to mid- and high-speed range".
The 'MT-25' weighs-in at 165kg,and Yamaha say it will be rolled-outinto "developed markets", includingEurope, in the future.
E BARNETT’S clutch baskets are CNC machined from aluminiumand feature replaceable stainless steel inserts that are said toprevent grooving of the basket where the clutch plate tabsmake contact. Oil passage windows are machined into thebasket to increase oil flow to the clutch plates to provide cooleroperating temperatures and a longer clutch life.
Included with each basket are grade 8 quality fasteners andwhere applicable a backing plate is included too. Selectapplications come with the center kicker gear alreadyinstalled.
Barnett’s billet clutch baskets are available for popular 80ccand up off-road motorcycles and sport ATVs.
Bar-end weights - choice of coloursNOTED German bike and parts designer LSL is now makingtwo-colour anodised handlebar end weights that ship withinserts for use on 14mm or 18mm internal diameter bars.Owner and chief designer Jochen Schmitz-Linkweiler saysthat the company uses a specially formulated and designedanodising process to achieve different colours for themachined parts, and that they are available in four differentcolour combinations - black/red, black/gold, black/silverand black/matt black.
A choice of inserts mean LSL's dual-colourbar end weights can be used with 14mm
and 18mm internal diameter bars
Trophy retro helmet - two shell options70s retro style helmet Trophy is a moulded DCA fibreshell (carbon, Dyneema and aramidic fibre) mixedwith epoxy resin. The internal shell is moulded in different EPSdensities to offer the best energy absorption in caseof an impact. The homologated visor has an anti-scratch treatmentand is attached to the shell with glove-friendlybuttons. The inner lining is made from anti-allergenicsanitised fabric with synthetic leather finishes. Thecheek pads are made with synthetic leather, and theretention system has a Double D ring fastener. Premier say that, as with all their helmets, theTrophy is homologated to ECE 22-05; it is availablein four graphics and a selection of mono colourversions.
REV’It! has marked the launch of its newtouring jacket, the Dominator GTX, and 20years of product development by building atwo-wheel drive project bike namedREV’IT!#95.Rev’It! say they used customer feedback todevelop the Dominator GTX jacket as amodular concept. Designed to offerprotection from wind and rain, it uses aGore-Tex membrane bonded to a 3L outershell. Ventilation panels and zippers make itusable in hot conditions. For rider protection the Dominator GTX isequipped with new Seeflex CE-level 2shoulder and elbow protectors, a Seesoftback protector and Gore-Tex Pro Talismanshoulder and elbow panels. The jacket alsocomes prepped for an Adventure neck brace,and additional safety features includelaminated reflection taping, safety seamsand a detachable kidney belt. Internal zipsmean a challenger cooling vest can be worn,and the outer shell is hi-vis vest friendly.The REV’IT!#95 project was named for theyear 1995, when Rev’It! began designingmotorcycle clothing. Rev’It’s creative directorGerbrandt Aarts brought together GregorHalenda, Chris Cosentino and Scott Kolb, ateam of artists, designers and engineers to
convert a KTM 950 Super Enduro into anall-wheel drive machine, with the adaptionof a Christini kit.“Over the years, our products’complexities have increased alongsidetheir features”, said Aarts. “All Rev'It!products are highly functional with an abrand signature approach to advanced butstraightforward design. This design visionhas been transmitted to the motorbike,which features advanced technology in asimple and honest presentation - puttingthe parts that improve the rider'sexperience on display”.
REV'IT! SPORT INTERNATIONAL B.V.Oss, NETHERLANDSTel: +31 (0)41 269 [email protected]
The Dominator GTX jacket with Gore-Texmembrane and Seeflex CE-level 2 protectors
The REV'IT#95 project bike is a KTM 950 SuperEnduro converted to all-wheel-drive with anadapted Christini kit built to mark the 20 yearssince the company started designing motorcycleapparel in 1995
Dominator GTX jacket; 20th anniversarytouring new bike build
THE Italian brand presents its new "pocket" gear,"providing effective protection from unexpectedshowersThe garments are the discreet Ultralight 2-piece
rain suit and the high visibility Rain Fluo jacket. Bothitems are extremely compact and can be carried in astorage bag. The waterproof clothing is made in 70-denier Nylon 190T, waterproof for a water of columnof up to 3,000 mm. The fabric is extremely light, yet100% impermeable. To reinforce theirwatertightness even further, Hevik has equipped itsnew jackets with pratical sealed seams that avoidwater leaking in. Both the Rain Fluo jacket and theUltralight rain suit rely on windproof material thatacts as a shield against cold air whilst commuting bymotorcycle or scooter.Closure of the jackets is by means of a front zipper
protected by a Velcro flap. To achieve maximumimpenetrability and prevent air leaking through thecuffs, they also feature an eleastic closure with Velcroat the wrists. In an effort to make the motorcyclistsafer, Hevik has added reflective inserts on the rearof the jackets.
New S100 products DR OK Wack has added three new productsto its S100 motorcycle cleaning anddetailing programme. S100 Dry Lube chain spray is said to combinethe advantages of grease and dry lubricantsthrough an "innovative hybrid formula",which contains PTFE "optimum wear andcorrosion protection by providing a dry andflexible protective layer". S100 Dry Lubechain spray is transparent, water and dirt-repellent and can be used for all O-, X-, andZ-ring chains.In France, Spain and the UK the Dry LubeChain Spray is available as SDoc 100 brand.Designed to prevent soiling of tyres, rim,
swingarm, and otherparts of the bike whenspraying lube onto thechain, the S100 ChainSpray Splash Guard is anaccessory for use withspray aerosol cans with a diameter of57mm. Once in place it prevents oversprayfrom landing on the bike. S100 Leather Balm for riding apparel is saidto be made up from high-quality nutrients,such as jojoba oil and bee’swax, to "deeply penetrate theleather and help keep it soft,supple and resistant". Quicklyabsorbed without residue, it issaid to provide excellentcolour restoration.
DR OK WACK CHEMIE GMBHIngolstadt, GERMANYTel: +49 (0) 841 635 [email protected]
Auto clutches for KTMsREKLUSE now has Core EXP auto clutch kits availableto fit KTM 1190 and 2015 KTM 450 SX-F models.Rekluse say that its auto clutch will not only prevent
stalling, but also improve traction and low-speedmaneuverability. It features easy external adjustmentwith an adjustable slave cylinder and retains stock leverfeel for normal clutch modulation. The conversion issaid to protect the clutch basket and eliminatenotching, while also allowing the bike to be bump-started by making a quick adjustmentStalling prevention and improved traction are also
said to be benefits offered by the Core EXP auto clutchkit for the KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition. Like the optionfor the 1190, it also has easy external adjustment withan adjustable slave cylinder and retains stock lever feelfor normal clutch modulation. Rekluse use proprietarysteel TEC drive plates that are said to be more durablethan the OEM part, have better oil flow for cooleroperating temperatures and reduce drag.
Available from Rekluse distributors in Europe,including ExtraCross in Germany, Inntek in Italy,HocoParts for Benelux and EMX Ravind forScandinavia; details on the Rekluse website.
REKLUSE MOTOR SPORTSBoise, Idaho, USATel: +1 208 426 [email protected]
2015 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition Core EXP
2013-2015KTM 1190Adventure
EXP
18 INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - JUNE/JULY 2015
PRO GuIDe
TECMATE have been researching 'off-grid'charging for years. The challenge they havebeen trying to meet is to overcome theinefficiency of traditional solar chargingdevices, while meeting riders' needs for areliable source of 'off-grid' energy tomaintain their vehicle batteries while stillbeing able to know the condition of batteryat all times during the charging cycle, orduring long-term charge maintenance. Solar chargers for 12V batteries have beenavailable for some time now, yet many whohave tried them have been disappointed bylow power delivery and the lack ofinformation during charging - this makes fora frustrating charging experience. The primary problem is that efficient solarcharging starts with unobstructed anddirect sunlight onto the panel surface.However, even with 6-8 hours of perfectdaily sunshine, power delivery is affected bythe fixed position of the panel and inreality, very few days are perfect for solarunless you live in the Sahara desert! On an even modestly cloudy day powerdelivery can drop to 20% or less, effectivelyreducing charge current below the levelthat will charge the battery and fail even tocombat the current drain from the vehiclecircuitry. Some 12V panels come with builtin charge controllers, but they may use 2-3W of power just to operate, resulting invery little power reaching the battery. Tecmate has now developed an OptiMateSOLAR charge controller that converts low
constant solar energy into efficient pulsesof energy that are more effective forbattery charging. The principle is simpleand, critically, very accurately controlled. Ahigh efficiency capacitor is 'filled' (charged)by the solar panel; once full it is thendischarged into the battery by the OptiMateSOLAR controller's micro processor-operated circuitry. This occurs repeatedly, with the frequencyof pulses being directly managed by thesolar energy being delivered, with eachpulse only being delivered once the currentlevel is effective for battery charging andmaintenance. This process is highly efficient, the circuitneeds around 4-8mA to control the powerand indicate progress, resulting in almost allthe delivered solar power being passed tothe battery. A 4-step programme includes low voltdesulphation pulse charge and safe long-term maintenance that is ideal for alllead-acid batteries, including motorcycle,automotive and marine. A battery as low as 1V can be recoveredand charged, after which the safe long-term'pulse' maintenance mode kicks-in to keep thebattery 100 percent ready and, crucially,prevent sulphation from reoccuring. Theprogramme is also smart enough to check ifthe battery can continue with the lowervoltage maintenance mode when it starts toreceive light again in the morning, rather thanrestarting the entire charging process again.
The company says thatthe OptiMate Solarcontroller is light andsmall enough to belocated at the battery,even hanging directlyoff the fitted batterylead, instantly allowingfull information accessat a glance;information such aswhether there issufficientsunlight/solar power tocharge a battery,whether it is chargingor maintaining the battery, and how fast isit charging. The TM-524 OptiMate SOLAR charge kitincludes a 6W high quality solar panel thatcomes with a 2m/6 1/2 ft output leadending in an SAE connector. By adding theOptiMate Charge controller, reach isexpanded to 3m/10ft between solar paneland battery. If the panel is needed to bemounted further away, the reach can beextended with the O-3 or O-13 charge cableextenders.For those who already own a 12V solarpanel, adding the OptiMate Solar chargerkit will instantly improve the solar chargeexperience. The TM520 Solar charger kitworks on 12V batteries and the TM521Solar charger kit will convert a 12V solarpanel into a 6V battery charger. Both kitsare delivered with high grade durable cableaccessories, including OptiMate's O-1weatherproof battery lead and O-4OptiMate battery clips – which connectdirectly to the OptiMate charge controller,as well as the O-27 polarity converter, justin case the solar panel's SAE connector isthe wrong polarity. Tecmate are continuing to develop therange, and say that further solar productswill be added soon, including new high-power solar solutions.
www.tecmate-int.com
Touring ScreenWUNDERLICH, the German BMW aftermarket partsspecialist, is now offering a touring screen to fit the’14-onward S 1000 R. Higher than the standardscreen, it is said to have a "flowing profile forenhanced wind protection" and a "flip" at the topto help reduce turbulence and wind noise.
The company states that the new screen is made
from an optically pure UV-resistantmaterial and that the edge is laser-rounded and polished for a safe andattractive finish. Supplied with TÜVcertification.
'Trax' aluminium casesSW-MOTECH's Trax 'Adventure' aluminium side casesare available in 37 and 45-litre capacities and a choiceof silver anodising or black powdercoat finish.
Robot-welded and manufactured from 1.5mm wallthickness aluminium, they have completely removablelids with quick-release fasteners and four large, strongtie-down points integrated into the geometry of the lid.
The large chamfer on the outer edges are for optimal
lean angle and ground clearance, and the protectorsare made of glass-reinforced plastics.
They are designed to work with SW-MOTECH’s ownQuick-Lock Evo side carriers, but can also be used withthe mounting plates of other well known carriersystems.
A full range of accessories is available for the Traxprogramme, including inner bags and case lid storagenets.
The company also offers dealers access to feature-rich, bike-touring friendly 'Racer' and 'Trooper'backpack product lines.
SW-MOTECH GmbH & Co KGRauschenberg, GERMANYTel: +49 (0)6425 [email protected]
Trax Adventure
Xman Racing BlousonBELSTAFF has releasedits Xman RacingBlouson in distress-look off Green, with acoated polyurethanefilm added to thecotton fleece materialto make it waterrepellent. The whitecotton fleece is dyedand coated thenhand finished.This applicationtechnique is a newdevelopment withinBelstaff's Pure Motorcycle range,resulting in a rubberized fabric that
offers comfort, protection andease of wear. Features includequilted reinforcements onshoulders, elbows and back hem,CE removable soft protectors onthe shoulders and elbows, metalbreathers under arm, adjustableneck strap and upper pocketsclosed by flap and snap buttonsensure functionality ismaintained.
GILLES Tooling's new GT Shield design meets therequirement for mandatory lever guards on closedcircuit tracks.
CNC-machined from billet aluminium with fibreglass reinforced plastic, the use of off-set spacersmeans the guards can be adapted to various leverlengths.
The downward sloped design leaves enoughspace to place the hand at the outside of thehandlebar.
Compatible with most Supersport bikes’ originalhandlebars and Gilles own GP Light and Variobarhandlebars, a special version is offered for stockBMW handlebars. Matching GT Shield clutch leverguards are also available.
GERMAN manufacturer Fehling isoffering luggage options and crashbars for Honda’s 2004 and later CTX700 N and Triumph Thunderbird StormCommander LT models.
Black powder-coated products forCTX 700 N include engine protectionbars, side rails to support soft bags, aminimal tubular rear rack, a sissybarwith integrated pillion pad, rear rackand ‘Flex’ top case carrier and sidecase holders, which can be used tomount the base plates from a numberof hard luggage manufacturers,including Givi and Kappa.
For the Triumph Thunderbird StormCommander LT Fehling has 38mmoversized engine and radiatorprotection bars in chrome, a chromerear luggage rack and driver and pillionsissybars with back pad and carrier.
Sports touring sidecarfor BMW R 1150/1200 GSWATSONIAN has developed a sports-touring sidecarspecifically for use with BMW R 1150 GS and R 1200GS models.
BMW uses its boxer twin engine as a stressedmember on both the GS models, so Watsoniandesigned a sub-frame to attach the sidecar andmodified its sidecar frame for the BMW GS, addinga roll bar, front and rear nudge bars and front-facingspotlights.
The sidecar rolls on a 15in split-rim style wheelcovered by a minimalist hugger featuring a combined
LED tail light/indicator unit.The bodyshell is based on the Watsonian GT4 and
the wrap-around screen section folds up for ease ofaccess. A passenger step is integrated into thechassis, incorporating a front LED indicator; thelockable trunk measures 63 x 76 x 53cm.
MODEKA has launched two new leather jackets intheir Urban Wear line. Made from soft lambs leather,they are available in charcoal grey with a blue tint. The inner lining has a skull design and SAS-TECprotectors can be retro-fitted at theshoulders/elbows and the back.
FURYGAN's Gene Evo is a CE homologatedcasual style technical boot offered with orwithout a waterproof and breathableSympatex membrane. Gene Evo has a suedeleather and Polyamide exterior withreinforcement over the toes for the gearselector, a large lace cover and protectionfor the ankle, heel and toes. Also fitted with a Sympatex membrane, theCE certified Jet uses D3O for riderprotection, has a cowhide leather upperwith D3O protector on the malleolusalongside reinforcement on the heel andtoes and anti-slip anti-torsion soles. D3O protection and a Sympatex membraneare also found in the cowhide leather Tedboot, which has D3O protectors on themalleolus, reinforcements on the heel andtoes and also an anti-slip anti-torsion sole.
AMB multiClip kitABM is now offering its multiClip adjustablehandlebars as a complete kit, with options availablefor most sportsbikes, including the latest Yamaha R1and BMW S1000RR.
The complete package includes handlebars,steelflex brake hoses, clutch and throttle cable,fairings and various holders.
“Everything from a single source is the motto ofour brand. We want to offer our dealers access to ouradjustable clip-on handlebars with the advantage ofall the necessary components and accessoriescoming from the one source - so the rider knows hecan complete the job because nothing is missing andall the parts are compatible”, says ABM CEOChristian Mehlhorn.
VERTEX Pistons has updated its range ofReplica, Race and Pro Race piston optionsfor two-stroke off-roaders (50 to 300cccapacity). The company states that theirreplacement pistons are durable designsoffering significant performance increases. Their Race pistons are manufactured fromsilicon charged aluminium alloys using agravity cast process. They feature a singlering to reduce their friction, a racing profileand an anti-seize film coating. Forged aluminium with a high siliconcontent is used in the production of theirforged Pro Race pistons, made from highsilicon content aluminium that is said todeliver guaranteed performance endurance.Vertex’s Replica pistons are similar to OEM,
but are claimed to have increasedperformance due to a molybdenumdisulphide anti-seize film coating and areavailable for oversized bores in engines thathave been fitted with big bore kits.
DragginJeans areBack inBlackTHE latest option from Draggin Jeans is the BLKGEN,made from stretch denim, with a straight leg, mid-rise waistband and a sports liner that is said to drawaway moisture in summer and keep the wearer warmin winter.Made with Draggin’s own abrasion-resistantRoomoto fabric, which is claimed to offer unrivalledsafety and climate control, heat and sweat are drawnaway from the skin while an anti-bacterial treatmentkeeps them fresh. Draggin is the world’s first Preferred Licensee formotorcycle garments built with DuPont Kevlar fibre,and it was this partnership that created Roomoto forabrasion resistance and day-long comfort.CE approved armour is also available and can befitted to the knees and hips for additional impactprotection, if required.Also, as a Preferred Licensee, Draggin Jeans has beeninvited to attend this year's C-Games at Austin, Texas,where Managing Director and former skatechampion Grant Mackintosh will be showcasing theuse of Kevlar in his designs on the DuPont booth.
Triumph conversion partsITALIAN Triumph parts specialist Free Spirits isnow offering a black coated belt guard for itsown belt drive conversion for Thruxton,Scrambler and Bonneville models.Also seen here is a dual disc front hub fortwin front brake conversions. CNC machined,it can be used with the bike’s original spokesand hub and uses 25mm Speed Triple axle
compatible bearings. Free Spirits owner andchief engineer Marcello Fontana suggests theuse of ’05 or later Speed Triple USD forks, orSpeed Master forks, to provide suitable brakecaliper mounts to complete the conversion.Marcellon says the hub is ideal for use onBonneville, Thruxton and Scrambler modelswith spoke wheels.
Front wheel hub for dual disc conversions onBonneville, Thruxton and Scrambler models withspoke wheels
This black coated belt guard iscompatible with Free Spirits' Thruxton,Scrambler and Bonneville belt driveconversions
ITALIAN suspension specialist Andreani is offering anew end-eye bracket specifically for the Kayabashocks mounted as original equipment on the 2015Honda CRF 450. Made of CNC machined high strength, low weightred Ergal alloy. In addition to adding strength at aplace where off-road bikes can stress the stockfitments to breaking point, it provides an extensionsetting to optimise suspension tuning. It comescomplete with a rebound pin.
ANDREANI GROUP INTERNATIONAL S.R.L.Pesaro (PU), ITALYTel: +39 0721 [email protected]
Touring screen and visor;acrylic racing style screenalso available
Upgrades forMT-09 Tracer
PUIG has a range of bolt-on parts forYamaha's popular and versatile MT-09Tracer.
Available in a light smoke finish theirnew touring screen complete withmulti-adjustable bolt-on visor is said tobe a modification-free install thatoffers improved windblast protection.
For a sportier screen option, Puig'sRacing screen is made from highimpact acrylic, and supplied withmounting supports. Available clear orin dark or light smoke and colouroptions including red, blue, or black.
Puig’s ABS plastic engine spoiler hasbeen styled in carbon-look or mattblack to follow the lines of the MT-09and protect the lower section of themotorcycle>
Billet aluminium footpegs by Puigfeature a rotational system to adjusttheir position; sold in pairs for rider andpassenger they are available in black,silver, red, blue, or gold.
Puig also offer PRO frame sliders inhigh-impact nylon with a wide surfacecompared to conventional designs forimproved protection.
AS part of RST’s commitment to the Isle of Man TTraces (RST brand clothing is the Official SafetyPartner), brand owner Moto Direct will unveil a fullprogram of TT co-branded apparel for their dealersto stock next year.
This year though, to mark the start of theircollaboration with the legendary races, the companystaged a flash retail outlet on the Isle of Man forenthusiasts to buy a first tranche of licensed product.
Feature-rich and safety-loaded leather and textilejackets, Aramid jeans, one and two piece suits andgloves are available.
www.rst-moto.com
Waterproof and breathable sports style textilejacket featuring "a high tenacity outer of Ballisticand Maxtex fabrics matched to a Sinaquamembrane and removable thermal lining"
Café Racer style textile jacket constructed fromRST’s new VX fabric
TT collection ¾ touring jacket "utilising hightenacity Maxtex for the outer combined with ourSinaqua waterproof and breathable membrane,with Contour Plus CE armour on the shouldersand elbows"
A one-piece suit in softand supple full grain1.1-1.3mm cowhide
with "excellentabrasion and tear
resistance properties"
Styled denim jeanswith "genuine DuPont
woven Kevlar acrossthe knees and seat
fitted as standard andContour Plus knee
armour in anadjustable pocket"
Leather jacket in fullgrain cowhide thatis cut full-length soit can be worn as ajacket only orzipped to any RSTleather jeans tomake a 2 piece suit,with Contour PlusCE armour
Reduced-wear clutch disc kitsSURFLEX is celebrating 65 years since it became thefirst Italian company to produce only motorcycleclutches and now remains the only one doing so.Surflex manufactures a wide range of clutchassemblies and components for OEM and after-market, often offering improved durability andbetter performance.Their vast range includes spare parts for all
popular current makes and models, English andGerman bikes of the ‘30s, all Japanese bikes of thelast forty years, and the historical Italian brands ofthe post-war period.Among the additions to its line of clutch option
components for Japanese bikes are six aluminiumcore friction plate and five steel disc kits for Honda’sCRF 150 RB and a seven friction plate kit for theTRX 500 ATV quad. A kit of four upgraded springsis also available for the CRF, and the frictionmaterial used by Surflex is said to dramaticallyreduce the wear of the cast aluminium pressureplate.Surflex has also extended its clutch range for
Honda’s CRF family of bikes to include a new disckit for the 250R. Interchangeable with the original,it has seven-plus-one friction plates with lightweightaluminium cores along with seven steel discs.
Women’sarmouredshirt PLANET Knox has released its first armoured shirtdesigned specifically for women. It can be wornunder regular motorcycle jackets, including thosefrom the recently launched Knox Studio Collection.
The new Knox shirt is constructed fromlightweight Elastane and is both breathable andmoisture-wicking. The seams are flat-locked forcomfort and there is a full-length front zip and twozippered front pockets. Rider protection is providedby the removable Knox Lite + CE-approved armouron the shoulders and elbows and Knox Level 1 CE-approved back protector.
Givi accessories for the MT-07GIVI has launched a line of accessories forYamaha's MT-07, which includes a range oftop cases, saddlebags, tank bags andwindscreens.Once fitted with Monokey/Monolockspecific rear racks there are a range of topbox options for use on the mid-weightnaked Yamaha, ranging from the 52-litreTrekker, made in reinforced techno-polymer,to the V47 (47 litres) or smaller 27-litre B27.Further rear luggage options include modelspecific pannier holders for Givi V35Monokey side cases and a holder forEasylock side bags or soft side bags, like the3D600 or WP405.Tank bag options for the MT-07 areavailable in a variety of capacities andinstall using the Tanklock fixing system. Bagchoices include the XS306 tank bag,expandable to 25 litres, or the four-litre3D603 thermoformed tank bag.Givi also offers weather protection with theA2118 black windscreen and a set ofhandguards made from ABS.
Rainers glovesRAINERS Sports’ extensive line-up ofgloves now includes these race-inspired leather SPV-5 and Omegaoptions.
The SPV-5 includes leather flexorson the thumb and fingers for improvedflexibility. There are TPU protectors forthe knuckles and palm, and the gloveis lined with polyester.
The short Omega glove also usesTPU plus carbon fibre across theknuckles, with non-slip, leatherreinforcements on the palms. TheOmega also has a polyester lining and
flexion points on the fingers forcomfort and movement.
Versys accessoriesPOWERBRONZE has extended itsproduct range with the launch ofnew parts for the ’10-’14 and ’15Kawasaki Versys models.The ABS belly pan is available ingloss or matt black, white orcarbon look, with the option ofgold or silver coloured mesh. The two-seat cowl versions fitwithout modification and can beordered in the choice of gloss ormatt black, white or carbon lookfinishes.For the ’15 Versys, Powerbronzecrash posts are CNC machinedfrom high impact plastic andaluminium.Swingarm and fork protector kitsfor the ’15 Versys are made ofinjection moulded high impactplastic and supplied with thenecessary high tensile studs (de-embrittled), washers, nuts andcompression sleeves.
POWERBRONZELittlehampton, West Sussex, UKTel: +44 (0)1903 [email protected] belly pan
Forcefield MotoCollectionFORCEFIELD has released details of its 2015Moto Collection, which includes new upperbody protection and armoured shirts. Their complete CE Level 2 upper bodyprotection system, the EX-K Harness, featuresmultiple adjustment points for optimumflexibility and comfort, made with energy-absorbing Nitrex Evo material and reinforcedwith Kevlar thread for added strength anddurability. It has a central front zip, neckbrace location point and back, chest,shoulder and elbow armour.It is available in three modular options -Adventure (torso, shoulders and elbows),Flite+ (torso and shoulders), or Flite (torso only). The new Pro Shirt X-V has a highly breathable‘BeCool’ technical base layer shell featuring fullyremovable CE approved armour located at theelbows, shoulders, back and chest. The large NEVO7010 chest protector is a one-piece design for
improved rib and sternum protection; the samematerial is used for the back protector, while NitexEvo armour is used for the elbows and shoulders.To ease access into the shirt, it has a side entry zipand ‘Evo Vent Zones’ for cooling air flow throughthe shirt.
The Pro Shirt X-V-S is a short sleeved version of thePro-Shirt X-V, sharing the same safety and comfortfeatures.
THE new 'Executive' modular helmet fromAiroh is made from modular H.R.T (highresistant thermoplastic) and features whatmanufacturer Locatelli describes as "uniqueand creative characteristics".The patented Chin Guard Holder System(C.H.S.) allows the chin guard to beremoved by pressing the two side buttons,stored on the back of the shell, and has anextra wide visor allowing the rider to enjoyan improved wide field of view.Additional features include double P/Jcertification (Protective and Jet version), aretractable sun visor and a removable neckroll "revolutionary casing" to stop windfrom entering the helmet.
LOCATELLI S.p.A.Almenno San Bartolomeo (BG), ITALYTel. +39 035 [email protected]
Locatelli's patented Chin Guard Holder System allowsthe chin guard to be removed and stored at the back ofthe shell for conversion to open face/Jet use
The 'Executive' is a dual certifiedthermoplastic shell modular
design with removable neck rolland advanced air-flow
Polished stainlessTriumph headersTRIUMPH aftermarket specialist Norman Hyde nowhas polished stainless steel header pipes available forall modern T100 Triumph Bonneville models. The new
pipes allow riders to replace the headers that containa catalytic converter, found on later models, andthose with the unsightly lambda sensor boss thatwas fitted to EFI bikes.
The 42mm header pipes are made in England from304 grade stainless steel and designed to fit all T100machines, including earlier pre-injection Bonnevillesfitted with 38mm headers. Fitting the new headersto EFI models allows owners to dispense with theprotruding lambda sensors, without leaving thewelded bosses that spoil the Bonneville's classicstyling. The bike’s ECU can be programmed to switchoff the sensors, so that performance will not beaffected.
Norman Hyde stainless header pipes are designedto fit the company’s HBS105 classic and HBS165peashooter silencers, as well as the factory-fittedTriumph originals.
NORMAN HYDEWarwick, Warwickshire, UKTel: +44 (0)1926 [email protected]
ITALIAN exhaust manufacturer SC-Project'sresearch and development department hasused its technologies developed for theYamaha Forward Racing MotoGP Team tocreate a high performance exhaust systemfor the new 2015 YZF-R1 and M models. The new system, which utilises titanium andcarbon fibre in its construction, is builtaround a CR-T silencer that is TIG welded tofull titanium conical joints. The centralcollector pipes are longer than stock andwere developed in MotoGP. There arehousings for the two original lambdasensors, but the catalytic convertor iseliminated. The use of CNC machined titanium meansSC-Project are able to claim a 5.5kg weightreduction over stock. The semi-full system isdesigned for race use, so is not road legaland needs an aftermarket fuel controller togain the full performance benefits, whichthe company describe as "impressiveincrease in power, also in the mid-range andtorque".
MIVV has extended its range of exhausts for BMW’sR 1200 GS, which already includes the Suono andOval silencers, with the introduction of a stainlesssteel model-specific version of its Speed Edge. Allthree are available to fit GS models from ’04-onward.
It can be fitted to the bike even when the factoryhard panniers are used, and is being offered in thechoice of black or brushed finishes. Both optionsfeature a carbon fibre end cap and are EU directivescompliant when used with the removable dB-killer.Also included with the muffler is a carbon fibre
mounting strap and a CNC-machined AISI 304stainless steel bushing to match the header pipes.
For all versions of the R 1200 GS, MIVV hasrecently introduced the GS Titanium edition. Thecompany describe this as "exclusive, available onlyto the owners of the maxi enduro".
LV ONE fullsystem for MT-09LEOVINCE has created a model specific LV ONEfull system for the 2015 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer.The E-approved, stainless steel system featuresa carbon fibre mounting bracket andlightweight Technopolymer end cap.. Thesilencer body on the system is available in achoice of sand blasted stainless steel or carbon fibre.
Z3000 weight saversKAWASAKI’S Z 300 is the latest bike to be able tobenefit from the improved performance and lighterweight of a GPR’s exhaust options. The Italianspecialist is now manufacturing model specificversions of its Deeptone Black ceramic line and Albuswhite ceramic silencers for the Z 300.
GPR BY LINEA OG JOLLY Cerro al Lambro (MI), ITALYTel: +39 02 [email protected]
R1 replacement choicesEXAN has responded to the launch of the2015 Yamaha R1 with the introduction of acomplete replacement exhaust system forthe bike. The silencer used in the system, which hasbeen designed for track use, is available infour different materials - steel satin clear,satin black steel, titanium or carbon.Equipped with a removable dB Killer, it isalso available in full titanium for furtherweight saving.
Street legal options for MT-09YAMAHA’S MT-09 Tracer is the latest motorcycleto have the option of being upgraded with anexhaust from Arrow. The company’s range ofsilencers for the MT-09 is street legal to EuropeanStandard 97/24/EC ch. 9. Silencer options includethe X-Kone and the Thunder with a choice ofmaterial used in the construction of the bodiesand end caps. A collector kit to work with thesilencers is also available for the '13-’15 modelsand is street legal with the use of Arrow catalyticconvertor.
ARROW SPECIAL PARTS SRLSan Giustino (PG), ITALYTel: +39 0758 [email protected]
Slip-ons forRC 125/390
GIANNELLI’s range of slip-on exhausts nowcovers the KTM RC 125 and 390. The rangeincludes their latest GX-One and X-Prosilencers. Among the options available aretitanium silencers and a choice of carbon orstainless steel end caps. All of the exhaustsare street legal, with removable baffles.
Yamaha Motor (JP) MT-25 will come to Europe ..........................................................................14
Yamaha Motor (JP) European unit sales up by +32 percent ........................................................14
This INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS INDEX is a complete listing of all the items in this edition.It includes all our advertisers and the product, feature and news items published this month.The INDEX will act as a quick reference guide, and will be useful when searching this and othereditions either for contact details for a particular company, or for a specific item that hasappeared. The INDEX appears in every edition of IDN.
FAST growing Indian motorcyclemanufacturer Royal Enfield has boughtUK based chassis, parts and race bikespecialist Harris Performance.Involving an undisclosed sum, the dealwill see Royal Enfield take over all ofthe assets, employees, trade names,technical know-how and intellectualproperty of the Hertfordshire, Englandbased specialist.Founded over 40 years ago by Steveand Lester Harris and Stephen Bayford,alongside its well established race bikecredentials, Harris has an internationalreputation as a leading designer andmanufacturer of parts andcomponents. Harris has had a long-standing relationship with RoyalEnfield, which includes having beenresponsible for the chassisdevelopment of the recentlyintroduced and acclaimed 535ccContinental GT cafe racer. Under the leadership of Siddharta Lal,Royal Enfield has made no secret thatit is ambitious, letting it be known thatit plans to develop a new generation ofproducts and platforms, including twonew engines.In August last year it signalled itsambitions in the North Americanmarket with the hiring of former
Harley-Davidson Head of Global Salesand Customer Service Rod Copes.This news was followed late last yearby the hiring of former Ducati designerPierre Terblanche after he'd had spellsat Piaggio/Moto Guzzi, Norton andConfederate Motorcycles.In February the Chennai basedmanufacturer announced that itintended to establish a research centrein the UK.The company has experienced 50percent growth in unit production ineach of the last three years. For its 2014fiscal year production topped 300,000units for the first time, having beenaround 178,000 in 2013 - indeednearly 84,000 of last year's productionwas achieved in the final/fourthquarter. CEO Siddhartha Lal is onrecord as targeting production of450,000 units in 2016. Speaking at the contract signing in theUK, he said that "to have the HarrisPerformance team dedicatedlyworking with us will clearly enhanceour engineering and product designcapabilities."Their proven expertise, deep insightand understanding of motorcyclingand Royal Enfield will be invaluable forus in our journey towards achieving
leadership in the global mid-sizedmotorcycling segment".Steve Harris said: "It has all comeabout very quickly, so there are stilldetails to be established”. Asked aboutfuture collaborations with othermanufacturers (such as Yamaha andSuzuki), Harris (for whom HarrisPerformance has worked on thedevelopment of MotoGP and WSBKbikes) said that the deal with RoyalEnfield doesn't prohibit it.The same would appear to apply tocontinuity of their parts and accessorymanufacturing and sales activities."We don't want to let anyone down.At present the plan is to continue allour existing activities alongside thework we'll be doing for Royal Enfield.”Asked about the prospects of beingable to collaborate with Terblanche,Harris said that "he is very talented andyes, I think it will be very exciting for ourteam to work with him. I'm sure thereare going to be some excitingopportunities and some great bikes".
www.royalenfield.comwww.harrisperformance.comwww.eicher.inSteve Harris, left, with Royal Enfield/Eicher Motors CEO Siddhartha Lal
Royal Enfield buys Harris
The well received 535cc ContinentalGT cafe racer is the most recentresult of the long-term collaborationbetween Harris Performance andRoyal Enfield.
NEWSBRIEFSUS distributor SpeedMob, thebusiness owned andoperated by well-knownparts and accessory importerTim Calhoun, has picked-upthe Italian made STMclutches and Arrow exhaustsprogrammes. The Richmond,California headquarteredbusiness is also selling Airohhelmets and BMC air filters.
BMW has become the latestmotorcycle manufacturer to signup to exhibit at AIMExpo,Orlando, Florida, October 15-18,2015. This year will be the thirdouting for the four-day longcombined trade/public expoconcept. More than 270exhibitors have alreadycommitted to the event, andregistrations are now open -www.AIMExpoUSA.com
Portuguese helmetmanufacturer NexxPro hasopened its own USsubsidiary, Nexx NorthAmerica Corp., atIndianapolis - it is beingheaded-up by Ricardo Silvaas Director of Operations.
Loncin, one of BMWs Chinesecollaborators, has signed a long-term agreement with 'Munich' tomanufacture up to 15,000complete 350cc scooters a year,including making the Euro-4compliant engines.
Italian electric 'superbike'manufacturer Energica hashad its 'Ego' officiallyaccredited by the NHTSA andcertified by the EPA in theUnited Sates as fullyhomologated and road legal.
