IDN 88 February 2011

COMMENT: Driving licence chaos ....Page 3

FEBRUARY ‘11 – ISSUE #88 PRODUCTS

Page 8 Page 20

NEWS ROOM

Page 21

VE (UK) Pages 12-13 Avon Tyres motorcycle centenary

Page 9

STAT ZONE Page 23 Page 27

GPA France Pages 40-43

Page 29

CATHCART REPORT

Page 38 Page 32 Page 15 Ducati follows Triumph to Thailand

Pages 31-39

NEWS ROOM 4-9,48

Page 31

TRADEZONE 44-45

Page 33

INDEX 46

•

COMMENT • COMMENT • COMMENT • COMMENT • COMMENT • COMMENT •

Driving licence chaos HE Third Driving Licence Directive passed in 2006 was meant to harmonise licencing schemes in Europe - but inconsistencies and gaping holes threaten to turn its application into a nightmare.

After two driving licence directives kicked off the overhaul of the European licencing systems, the European Commission rolled out a third proposal in 2005. Drafted with increased harmonisation in mind, it came out before a proper assessment of the two previous instalments could be performed.

The original proposal saw riders putting pressure on the Commission to make sure that fair and affordable access to motorcycling would be maintained. In particular, the text introduced stepped-up licencing: riders would start by getting a light motorcycle (A1) or medium motorcycle (A2) licence, before getting the full licence (A) after two years. FEMA insisted that the move from one licence category to another should be an opportunity to improve rider skills, rather than a simple repeat of things learned previously.

Critics, including rider groups, complained the final directive hardly looked like the original project. And while trying to give themselves more flexibility in managing licence regimes, national governments diluted the content, leaving entire sections open for local interpretation.

Member states should now be changing national laws to match the requirements of the directive, which will enter into force in January 2013, but the shortcomings of the 2006 text are becoming more obvious by the day.The scope for widely differing interpretation means the legislative process will be fraught with difficulties, while the lax requirements will result in different options for acquiring licences between countries, some easier than others.

With three main categories, moving from one to another can require either a 30-minute test, 7 hours of training (or more), or both. The directive is not clear on this point. Which means that going from an A1 to a full licence could require two 30-minute tests or two tests and 15+ hours of training.

There is evidence that some state-run assessment bodies are either unable or unwilling to administer training regimes that could offer routes from the A1 to A2 and A motorcycle licence categories.

T

All across Europe, parliaments and governments are struggling to understand the text of the directive, and put in place a consistent and well-ordered new licencing regime.

FEMA, the European federation of motorcycle riders’ associations, is concerned that this less-than-clear legislation will lead to the introduction of botched national licencing systems across Europe. In particular, the training-or-testingor-both option means that getting a licence will be a different process in every country - contrary to the process of harmonisation the European Union was set up to achieve.

FEMA’s position has been the same since first articulated four years ago, when it was on the discussion table. It wants licencing systems to be fair, affordable, and accessible, and says that above all they should not deter Europeans from taking up motorcycling. Training and testing must be carried out with safety in mind,teaching and checking essential skills, rather than becoming an exercise in ticking bureaucratic boxes.

A focus on skills-based training, it says, offers a much better outcome for achieving higher standards of motorcycle riding than testing alone. Each step of the licencing process should be designed as part of a whole, in order to make sure that every step teaches new skills.

But for busy policy-makers, more testing is an easier solution. Because of this the FEMA President Gerard Livett has officially asked the Commission, as overseer of EU treaties, to step in and clarify the content and intent of the directive.

With a series of specific, direct questions, FEMA hopes the Member States can get at least some guidance, which should help design a better licencing system for riders and road users in general.

We look forward to hearing the response from Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas to Livett’s letter, and hope it will contain positive and constructive suggestions to deal with the serious problems that have been brought to his attention.

the licencing process should improve rider skills

Al Franck International Editor al@dealer-world.com

CONTENTS NEWS Pages 4-9, 48 INDUSTRY EXTRA Page 12-13

CATHCART REPORT Page 14-17

PRODUCTS Pages 19-29 Page 19

Page 20

Page 25

MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Pages 31-39 INDUSTRY EXTRA Page 40-43

TRADEZONE Page 44-45

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INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

3

NEWS ROOM

GERM AN REPO RT Stephan Maderner, editor of German motorcycle trade magazine Bike & BUSINESS, takes a look at the main issues currently affecting the industry in his country

Negative & positive HE German motorcycle industry is casting a worried look ahead at the 2011 season. Many fear that after over 10 years of market contraction, some motorcycle dealers will not survive the winter.

In addition, the fight over the liberalisation of licences for powered two-wheelers as part of the 3rd EU licence directive looks well and truly lost.At the end of last year, the Bundesrat passed a law which ignored the two core demands of the market, that 15-year olds have access to mopeds and car licence holders be allowed to ride PTWs up to 125cc.

Despite the frustration, industry players have shown their resilience again and again, and there are some positive signs on the horizon.

One is that the well-subscribed regional spring shows show an undiminished customer interest. nd there is also positive news from the three (!) German motorcycle OEMs:BMW goes from strength to strength and could well continue breaking output records in 2011, the revived Horex brand plans to bring its first motorcycles to market this autumn, and this year could also see the longdelayed start of production at MZ, which has received financial guarantees. The first scooters could roll off the Zschopau line in March,with 125cc motorcycles to follow in the summer.

T

A

Motorcycle Taiwan 2011 THE Taiwan International Motorcycle Show will take place on April 14-17 2011 at the TWTC Exhibition Hall in Taipei.

Organisers TAITRA (Taiwan External Trade Development Council) say it is a fully vertically integrated event for motorcycles and all the accessories that go with them, proving a winner in 2010 by attracting nearly 12,000 industry visitors. Last year there were 1,200 overseas buyers from 67 countries, as well as 195 exhibitors on 429 booths. www.motorcycletaiwan.com.tw

Autocom acquired

by Tecstar UK communication system specialist Autocom is now part of the Tecstar Electronics group, which makes the StarCom 1 universal helmet communication system.

Tecstar will continue selling the Autocom range in its entirety and support current distributors and dealer networks, ensuring continuity of supply of product, parts and cables. Tecstar is committed to

further product development and will be working to enhance the Autocom range, the company said.

AUTOCOM/TECSTAR St Ives, Cambridgeshire, UK Tel: + 44 (O)1480 494444 www.autocom.com

Grimeca liquidation RECEIVERS have been appointed at Italian motorcycle parts specialist Grimeca, and are hoping to sell off the company’s Ceregnano site as a going concern to raise E30m out of the company’s E40m outstanding debts.

A piecemeal sale of the assets would only cover 30% of total debts, according to estimates by the commercial tribunal.

The company, based near Rovigo in the Veneto region, re-employed 230 of its 300 staff in January with government support to fulfil outstanding contracts making motorcycle wheels for Honda, Yamaha and Piaggio and parts for Magneti Marelli. These contracts will be completed by 31 March. www.grimeca.it

NEWS ROOM

N REPORT A C I R E M A

Motorsport Aftermarket Group (MAG), the parent company of motorcycle parts and accessories brands including Performance Machine and Küryakyn, has acquired Cycle News, the 40-year-old U.S. motorcycle magazine.

KBC America is changing its distribution model and will in future sell and supply its products directly to dealers.

The helmet group is working with D2M, which will provide a real time order software system accessible to approved dealers starting in early 2011. KBC will also have a full stock of inventory at several distribution centres across the United States for fast delivery of its products.

Polaris Industries will begin shutting down its Osceola, Wisconsin, plant on March 1.

The closure will result in 484 job losses.

As part of the group’s reorganisation, existing production facilities in Minnesota and Iowa will be expanded, and a new plant built in Mexico.

Dunlop has announced that Erion Racing will be its new distributor for road race tires in the western U.S. Racers and track riders east of the Mississippi River will continue to be served by Race Tire Services.

Feridax to introduce Spada into Europe UK distribution group Feridax plans to expand its own-brand Spada clothing and accessories range into the European market, starting with France, where it is actively seeking agents.

Steve Clifford, Feridax Sales Director, said the initial focus was on finding a bilingual intermediary, probably based in the South of France, after which a sales network would be established. “I’ve been over there a few times and the response has been very positive.They really like the quality and pricing,” he said.

“We’ll see how it goes in France, and then make a decision about expanding further into other European countries.”

Spada is well-established in the UK and the collection now consists of over 120 products, covering leathers to helmets, textiles to gloves, and boots to base layers.

Feridax is also now the exclusive distributor of Caberg helmets in the

UK, the latest in a number of new brands that have been taken on by the Midlands-based company in recent months. It says it will re-establish the Italian brand on the market by improving stocking levels, delivery times and dealer service.

This follows the addition of Syntium Moto/Petronas lubricants and care products to the Feridax portfolio in the latter part of last year.

The company is the UK distributor for a number of other prestigious brands, including Shoei, Sidi, Shot, EBC and Coocase.

Feridax Sales Director Steve Clifford says if expansion into the French market is successful it will be followed up elsewhere in Europe

www.feridax.com

Feridax has opened a new showroom at its Halesowen HQ to display its extended portfolio of brands to best effect

2011 Moto Park exhibition, Moscow THE 8th international Moto Park exhibition will take place from 1-3 April 2011 at the IEC Crocus Expo site in Moscow.

Moto Park is the only exhibition in Russia that covers all aspects of the motorcycling industry, according to organisers RTE Group, and is the keynote event for those interested in this rapidly expanding market. In 2010 the exhibition brought together 86 exhibitors (including Honda, BMW and Peugeot) and 85,000

visitors over the three exhibition days.

A highlight every year is the Moscow Custom and Tuning Show, which is affiliated to the

World Championship of Custom Bike Building. www.motoparkshow.ru www.rte-expo.ru

Indian OEMS look German 2010 at diesel bikes motorcycle market analysis ROYAL Enfield and the Hero Group are reportedly in talks with a diesel engine supplier based in Chennai for a range of future motorcycle models, according to Indian news sources.

Hero is said to be looking for diesel engines larger than 400cc, and these are currently undergoing certification, according to the reports.

Hero Group is Honda’s partner

6

in Hero Honda, the joint venture small motorcycle manufacturer whose dissolution has just been announced.

BIKE & Business has brought out a report containing comprehensive information on all branches of the German motorcycle, scooter and moped sector. www.royalenfield.com www.herogroup.com

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

To order a copy contact stephan.maderner@vogel.de

Electric superbike wins podium spots CHIP Yates reached over 250 km/h on his custom built electric superbike at the WERA West Sportsman Series in Fontana, California, in January, and gained two places on the podium during the series.

Expert and second in the Heavyweight Twins Superstock class, taking on a wide field that included Ducatis and KTMs.

The SWIGZ Pro Racing bike has a 180 lb battery pack behind the rider and under the petrol tank with 102 lithium ion polymer pouch cells.

Yates won third place in the Heavyweight Twins Superbike

www.chipyates.com

Oxygen CargoScooter EV THE CargoScooter electric scooter is designed for trade use with a h e a v y d u t y f r a m e, t o u g h bodywork, reverse gear and excellent manoeuverability due to efficient weight distribution and low centre of gravity. Cargo capacity is 70 kg in the rear box and a 20 kg front carrier.

Other features include regenerative braking, special li-ion battery technology and a range on a single charge from 60km to 120km depending on the model.

The CargoScooter was recently selected for use by the Swiss Postal Service, which has passed an initial

order of 500 units.

Oxygen also offers a commuter version without rear box that comes in a range of colours from the original green to electric blue and passionate red.

The company is expanding its distribution and sales network and would welcome enquiries from potential dealers and distributors.

OXYGEN Padova, ITALY Tel: +39 049 8282311 E-mail: info@oxygenworld.it www.oxygenworld.it

NEWS ROOM

Avon Tyres motorcycle centenary AVON Tyres will be celebrating the centenary of its involvement in motorcycle tyre production in 2011.

The history of Avon Tyres goes back to 1885, when a former cloth mill in Melksham, Wiltshire, was turned into a rubber goods factory. By the turn of the century the company was looking at diversifying into other rubber products, and by 1911 Avon produced its first motorcycle tyre.

Over the last century, famous motorcycling names such as Geoff Duke, John Surtees, Mike Hailwood and Barry Sheene have raced and won on Avon tyres. The firm has won 13 Supersport and four Production class championships on two wheels as well as Isle of Man TT victories on both three and two wheels.

Avon’s latest range of road tyres covers every category of motorcycles

The VP2 range has variants for street and race applications

from adventure sport to power cruisers. The VP2 range comes in three variants – Sport, Supersport and Xtreme for track-day users – in a wide variety of fitments. Avon Tyres’ Storm 2 Ultra range was launched in 2010 and has become a popular choice in the sports-touring market.

The Melksham factory is ISO 9001 certified and Avon’s European Technical Centre was recently opened there to ensure innovation continues into the future.

Avon’s Global Motorcycle Sales Manager Graham Matcham said, “It’s remarkable to think that Avon Tyres has been producing award-winning products for a century. We have a rich heritage in both road and race tyres and our current award-winning range

Avon has been making motorcycle tyres for 100 years

Avon’s Graham Matcham (right)

encompasses every class of motorcycle and scooter.Throughout our 100 years in the industry we’ve pushed the boundaries of tyre design, with some of our ideas being used by the industry as a whole. Our focus remains on our customers, whether they are the enduser or a dealer. We continue to produce quality products which represent great value for the money.”

www.avon-tyres.co.uk

STAT ZONE

German registrations down 10.6% in 2010 Report by Al Franck al@dealer-world.com

THE German motorcycle and scooter market saw 122,519 units registered in 2010, down 10.6% on the 137,045 recorded in 2009, according to the IVM, the country’s motorcycle industry association. This follows a 17.6% decline the previous year.

On a monthly basis, the best was March, which saw a 12.6% increase on the same month of 2009, while the worst performance was recorded in January and December, down 41 and 40.9% respectively on the same months of the previous year.

All engine size categories over 125cc saw falls, with the exception of the 1,000-1,199cc segment, where the rise was 17.23%.

Within the larger motorcycle category, numbers registered per sector were as follows: sportsbikes fell 7.1% to 26,404, enduro rose 2.8% to 18,042, supersport fell 20.2%

to 9,298, classic bikes fell 6.8% to 10,416, custom/ choppers fell 5.4% to 10,454, and touring fell 22.6% to 4,258.

For the Japanese OEMs, overall sales on the German market continue to plummet, with Suzuki sales contracting by 26% and Honda by 18.3%.

BMW continued its inexorable rise and confirmed its position at the top of the sales table with 17,819 units sold over the year, a rise of 14.5%, knocking Honda and Yamaha down to second and third place respectively, while Ducati sales were also healthy, rising by 17%.

Piaggio sales slumped, while Harley held steady and Triumph and KTM were down slightly over the year compared to 2009.

Germany: Top 10 motorcycle models registered 2010 Rank

Manufacturer

Model

Units registered

1

BMW

R 1200 GS

5,674

2

Suzuki

GSF 1250 Bandit

2,631

3

Yamaha

XJ6

2,556

4

Honda

CBF 600 S

1,986

5

Kawasaki

ER-6n

1,971

6

BMW

S 1000 RR

1,827

7

BMW

F 800 R

1,494

8

Yamaha

YZF-R 125

1,460

9

Piaggio

MP3-400

1,457

10

Piaggio

Vespa GTS 300

1,450

BMW’s S 1000 RR superbike was one of several new models that propelled the Bavarian company to the top place in German motorcycle sales rankings last year

Germany: Registrations by manufacturer 2010 Rank

Manufacturer

Units registered %Change

1

BMW

17,819

+12.5

2

Honda

15,991

–18.3

3

Yamaha

13,946

–14.6

4

Suzuki

11,639

–26

5

Piaggio

9,100

–17.7

6

Kawasaki

8,827

–11.4

7

Harley-Davidson

7,754

+0.5

8

KTM

4,280

–1.5

9

Triumph

3,804

–4.3

10

Ducati

3,226

+17.2

11

Kymco

3,660

+19.3

12

Aprilia

2,582

–15.5

13

Peugeot

1,351

–19.8

14

Kymco-China

1,310

–18.7

15

SYM

1,201

–11.5

16

Daelim

1,057

–18

17

Kreidler Europe

903

+172

18

Husqvarna

854

+14.2

19

Qingqi

853

–40.8

20

Jonway

719

n/a

UK market sees 14% contraction THE latest statistics from Britain’s MCI trade association show that new motorcycle, scooter and moped registrations in the UK fell by 14% to 95,921 in 2010, against 111,513 in 2009 and 139,715 in 2008.

Moped registrations (scooters and small bikes under 50cc) saw a 12.4% fall over 2008, while the figure for all PTWs over 50cc saw a drop of 14.3%.

Half of the reduction was lower

10

capacity bikes up to 50cc and of these 10,000 machines, around 60 were from inexpensive unsupported, online brands, mainly from Asia, which proved unsustainable in the current economic environment. In the light of this, the MCI says the overall market has faired well.

By type, in the 51cc+ category, figures were as follows: scooters –6.3% to 15,791, supersport –24.1% to 14,256, naked bikes –16.3% to 17,833, adventure sport –12.2% to 9,151, custom

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2010

–10.7% to 8,305, sport touring –9.8% to 7,515, trail/enduro –12.2% to 4,841, and touring –11.4% to 3,224.

In terms of engine size, the only segment holding its own was 1,000cc+, which saw a 0.3% contraction on 2009. All others saw significant falls, with the least badly affected the 51-125cc segment, which dropped 6.8%.

Amongst manufacturers, only Triumph and BMW increased sales and market share, with Suzuki and

Kawasaki s e e i n g particularly brutal declines.

The two European brands, respectively fifth and seventh in the ranking table in 2009, are now fourth and fifth, with Triumph now poised to knock Suzuki from third place.

Below the top eight in the table, Ducati and KTM have been moving up, the former selling well in spring and summer, the latter in autumn and winter. >>>

STAT ZONE <

According to the MCI, the beginning of 2010 started with a 41% drop in total registrations, however over the year the industry has seen a gradual slowing down of the decline in new powered two-wheeler sales, with the total number of registrations ending 14% down compared to 2009.

Although the statistics show a drop in new sales, the situation is more complex than the headline figures

suggest and there are some important trends developing in motorcycling.

There is a growing interest in the use of bikes for commuting, and as the industry’s Get On campaign is taking effect, there is an upwards trend in smaller machines with lower capacity bikes (up to 125cc) gaining a 10.4% increase in market share. Scooters also had a 9.3% increase in market share.

Overall interest in motorcycling

United Kingdom: Registrations by manufacturer in 2010 Rank

Manufacturer

2010

% change on 2009

1

Yamaha

14,767

–19.8

2

Honda

13,400

–14.5

3

Suzuki

7,657

–32.0

4

Triumph

7,564

+1.5

5

BMW

6,705

+12.2

6

Kawasaki

5,467

–27.3

7

Piaggio

5,298

–19.0

8

Harley-Davidson

4,300

–14.4

remains strong and the most recent Government statistics show that there were 1.3 million motorcycles licensed for use on the road, a significant increase of 77% since 1995.

Steve Kenward, MCI’s CEO commented: “Although the motorcycle industry has been battling the problems associated with a poor economy and the exceptionally bad weather, the industry as a whole is not in decline. It currently employs 65,000 people and generates annual turnover of more than £2 billion for the UK economy.” www.mcia.co.uk

Italian registrations down 24.2% THE Italian motorcycle and scooter market saw 307,045 units registered in 2010, down from 404,767 in 2009, according to the country’s motorcycle industry association ANCMA. Registrations of scooters fell 27.8% while those of motorcycles were down by 14.4%.

These figures apply only to vehicles with 51cc engines and larger.

Sales were up by a quarter in January compared to the same month in 2009, but subsequent months saw significant declines, mainly due to the removal of the government’s scrappage bonus.

By engine size, all categories showed falls of over 30% with the exception of 251-500cc, down 12.7%, 751-1000cc, up 0.3%, and +1000cc, down 10.1% on 2009.

By motorcycle type, registrations for naked bikes fell 28.6% to 32,070, sportsbikes fell 26.7% to 11,038, enduro fell 0.9% to 23,906, custom rose 6.6% to 9,993, touring rose 24.3% to 6,665, supermotard fell 3.3% to 8,373, ATVs fell 23.4% to 5,402 and trials fell 17.8% to 1,475.

Over the period a total of 85,921 mopeds 50cc and under were registered, down 13.8% on 2009. The three most popular models in this segment were the Piaggio Liberty 50 RST 4T (5,354 units), Aprilia Scarabeo 50 2T (5,255 units) and Piaggio Vespa LX 50 4V 4T (4,913 units). www.ancma.it

After the Honda SH series, the Piaggio Beverly was the most popular model in Italy over 2010

Italy: Top 20 models by registration 2010 Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Manufacturer Honda Honda Honda Piaggio Yamaha Yamaha Piaggio Piaggio Kymco Piaggio Kymco Piaggio Yamaha Honda BMW Kymco Kymco Yamaha Piaggio Kawasaki

Model SH 300 SH 150 SH 125 Beverly 300 Tourer X-Max 250 T-Max 500 Liberty 125 Vespa GTS 300 Agility125 Beverly 300 Downtown 300 Vespa LX 125 X-City 250 SW-T 400 R 1200 GS Agility 150 Xciting R300 Majesty 400 Liberty 150 Z 750

Units registered 13,957 10,661 10,088 9,932 9,692 8,633 7,361 7,047 6,534 6,639 5,599 5,065 4,931 4,199 3,989 3,684 3,396 3,374 3,050 2,946

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2010

11

INDUSTRY EXTRA

VE (UK) – nurturing the niche market In the three years since IDN’s last visit to British scooter parts distributor VE (UK), the market has seen serious turbulence and the company has had to adapt to new economic realities. Nevertheless, Al Franck found a feeling of optimism amongst staff when he visited the company’s Nottingham base late last year.

E (UK) claims to be the largest scooter parts and accessories distributor in the UK despite some contraction over the last few years. Owner and Managing Director Norrie Kerr provides the detail: “In last three years the market has changed considerably. There have been many peaks and troughs, so we moved quickly to face the changing realities. We’ve tidied up our systems and operations, cut staff numbers from 20 to 15 and made big efforts to become more flexible. We’ve trained staff to be able to swap jobs, moving to where the bottlenecks are, and overheads have been trimmed. We are now a more frugal operation.”

This has enabled the company to weather the storm. Norrie continues: “The nature of demand has changed somewhat, but VE (UK) is still doing very well. We have seen a small drop in the number of dealers as smaller operators get bought out, but overall business held up well in 2010, and we think it will expand slowly in 2011.”

With a customer base of over 2,500 dealers, the company is exclusive UK distributor for Malossi, Giannelli, LeoVince, Kundo, Scorpion Exhausts, Corazzo, GPR, HTF, GPT, and Faco, and imports from over 100 companies worldwide, including such wellknown names as Polini, Athena, Artek, Surflex, New Fren and Ariete. It has some 35,000 lines and 100,000 fitting applications, and a high proportion directly in stock at its facility at Long Eaton near Nottingham in Central England.

As well as classic, geared and automatic scooters with engine capacities from 50cc to 850cc, VE (UK) also supports smaller motorcycles up to 250cc. It claims to offer one of the most exhaustive ranges of commuter, sports, road, track, race, custom, restoration, mod and retro scooter spare parts and accessories in Europe.

Key to continuing success is the company’s trade website database. Here, apart from all part numbers, old and new, is information on part/model compatibility and much else.There is also a technical assistance section and dealers can check stock levels (updated daily), see pictures of parts and check for cross-compatibility and fitments, and order online.

Mail order from the company’s consumer site is also

V

Owner and Managing Director Norrie Kerr (left) with General Manager Simon Humphrey

Daniel Randon, IT and Sales Manager

important for sales of Corazzo scooter apparel, for which it is exclusive UK distributor, and its Facebook site is growing ever more popular, according to Norrie, featuring everything from the latest tuning parts to kits from prominent manufacturers.

Rob Kerr, Director

12

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

The company is fortunate to have close relations with established and well-respected Italian and European names. VE (UK) Director Rob Kerr, Norrie’s son, emphasises the importance of this at a time when manufacturers and distributors are subject to increasing numbers of contacts from low cost traders, wanting to undercut the established dealer networks.

The company’s most important supplier in terms of sales is Malossi, followed by exhaust companies LeoVince and Giannelli. “Malossi and Polini make a range of popular scooter kits and have the biggest catalogues, and Athena has some excellent kits too,” says Rob. “Malossi and Polini have invested heavily in stock and expanded their warehouses,” he adds. “This is different from many others in Italy who have contracted over the last couple of years. Instead of waiting for the order and then putting it in the production schedule, both will have the items in the warehouse already and so their delivery times are fantastic – typically 2 or 3 days, even for 400-500 item orders.”

“But for some other suppliers, lead times have gone up because they aren’t holding as much stock,” he adds. “So in response, to ensure we can offer a decent service to our dealers, we’ve had to increase our own stock of these items.

“And during the difficult market conditions of the last few years some of our suppliers let us down. For

INDUSTRY EXTRA a few, there was a tendency for them to deliver what they wanted rather than what we wanted, so we had to put them right on that score.”

Rob thinks there are certainly grounds for optimism. “On the whole, most of our suppliers are doing well and we are still getting the same overall level of orders from dealers, even though they might be several smaller orders over a month rather than a couple of bigger ones.

“Exhausts, tuning parts and consumables are all selling well, as are our own body kits, and maxiscooters are taking off in the UK too. We’re increasing our lines for the latter, from a 560cc Malossi race kit for the T-Max to wider ranges of accessories for the Burgman, Majesty and others.”

VE (UK) was also recently approached by Performance Bikes magazine to supply a Malossi kit for a YZF-R125, aiming to exceed 100mph in a test run. “This was quite prestigious - a mark of our position in the UK market,” says Norrie.

Despite the problems of the last few years, Norrie thinks the UK scooter market is going from strength to strength. “There were peaks in the 60s and 80s,

but I think the one we’re experiencing now is the biggest of the lot. There is so much interest and activity, with scooter clubs reporting a membership boom, and we have a whole category of new riders coming into the market in towns and cities.

Scootering is like a family, and the family is growing.”

VE (UK) Long Eaton, Notts, UK Tel: +44 (0)115 946 2991 E-mail: sales@ve-trade.com www.ve-uk.com

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

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W r i t t e n b y A l a n C a t h c a r t - c a t h c a r t @ d e a l e r- w o r l d . c o m

Husqvarna repositioned by BMW as two-wheeled equivalent of MINI brand USQVARNA is set to be completely repositioned in the marketplace by its BMW owners in the coming 12 months, with the Italian-based ex-Swedish dirtbike company following its much larger KTM rival in expanding into the streetbike sector.

BMW Motorrad’s General Director, Hendrik von Kuenheim, has spent the last two years since he took over the helm in January 2008 of the German car manufacturer’s bike division, which since July 2007 has also included Husqvarna, considering what strategy he should adopt for the Italian offroad brand - especially since, before his predecessor Herbert Diess acquired it, he’d already given the go-ahead for BMW to develop its own separate 450cc off-road product.

The Husqvarna stand at the EICMA Show in November gave a clear indication of von Kuenheim’s chosen strategy. According to company insiders, BMW is now engaged in repositioning Husqvarna as the direct two-wheeled equivalent to its MINI brand of cars - cute, youthful, fun, distinctive, and above all very different from its parent BMW counterpart.This entails Husqvarna entering the streetbike sector - and with a multicylinder range of models, too, besides the BMW G450X-derived

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BMW Motorrad General Director, Hendrik von Kuenheim

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SMR449/551 Supermoto launched at EICMA, comprising the four-valve single motor built for the German firm

by Kymco in Taiwan, slotted into an allnew Husqvarna-built frame incorporating BMW’s trademark coaxial swingarm pivot technology.

However, Husqvarna won’t do that with the lowslung, rangy, 900cc threecylinder Mille 3 concept bike also

one with more than just one cylinder!”

They’ll have to get used to that, because at EICMA 2011 this coming November, Husqvarna will launch two 900cc parallel-twin models powered by a modified version of the BMW F800 motor, with a longer stroke for increased torque. There’s insufficient space to bore the cylinders of the 82 mm x 75.6 mm 798cc engine any

to create an affordable yet cool entrylevel product for European teenriders.

With manufacturing partners in both China and Brazil, where the F650GS single is currently being made, Husqvarna believes that cost could be contained to be competitive with the Indian-made KTM. The Husqvarna factory at Cassinetta, on the shores of Lake

The Husqvarna Mille 3 concept bike on display in Milan

displayed at the EICMA Milan Show last November, seemingly consisting of a trio of cylinders and heads from its single-cylinder range scattered in a 90º V3 format on a special crankcase, with two cylinders placed vertically and the third horizontally.This has zero chance of ever making it into production, but was aimed at demonstrating that Huskies can be cool, too, as well as hyper-efficient offroad. “We made this bike to show that, inside Husqvarna, where our design office created the bike entirely in-house, we know how to look at doing things differently,” said Martino Bianchi, Husqvarna’s Communications Director. “We also wanted to get people used to looking at a Husqvarna roadbike - especially

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

further, thus making it impossible to obtain the 1000cc capacity that was the Husqvarna design office’s first intention. But the 900cc version should deliver around 95bhp with 95Nm of torque - BMW’s F800GS produces 85 bhp and 83Nm - and while retaining the same Ducati Supermono-inspired blind conrod counterbalancers to eliminate vibration as on the BMW motor, its Husqvarna counterpart will initially be launched in street enduro and hard enduro models, with totally tarmac streetfighter and supermoto spinoffs further down the road. Husqvarna is also examining following KTM’s strategy in developing the 125 Duke in conjunction with their Bajaj partners,

Varese, produced 15,000 bikes in its 2009/10 financial year, up from 13,000 the year before, with a target of 17,000 units for the current period.

Developing a multi-cylinder range using BMW motors modified in-house as the basis, is expected to lift those figures towards the 25,000 bikes per calendar year mark, and in doing so will surely make them cool - as well as quick…

CATHCART REPORT

Ducati follows Triumph to Thailand OHN Bloor’s inspired decision a decade ago to establish a wholly-owned Triumph manufacturing operation in Thailand, is unquestionably a key factor in the British company’s successful growth in the intervening period.

This idea was originally conceived as a cost-effective way of sourcing low-tech components over which he would retain control in terms of quality, price and above all, delivery, as opposed to sourcing such parts from third party Indian or Chinese companies, as most of Triumph’s rivals did already or would shortly do.

Triumph’s ability to compete on price with the Japanese manufacturers, while delivering a smaller-volume, high-quality, but distinctive product, comes in no small way thanks to the three factories it now has in Thailand, located 60km southeast of Bangkok at Chonburi, the first of which began operations in May 2002, producing frames, fuel tanks, exhausts, swingarms, and assorted covers. A second factory was opened in 2006, which besides a paint shop also includes an assembly line producing complete Triumph motorcycles (to begin with, mainly Bonneville models) for the first time outside Britain, followed swiftly by a third in 2007 incorporating high pressure diecasting and machining facilities.Triumph currently employs an 800-strong workforce in Thailand under the direction of a group of Thai-

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Triumph’s first plant at Chonburi opened in 2002, and the company now has two other plants in Thailand

based British managers, as compared to a staff of 600 at its Hinckley HQ in the UK, and aside from now producing complete bikes, its Thai operation manufactures a significant proportion of both engine and chassis components for all models.

Now Triumph is being joined in Thailand by none other than Ducati, which under the direction of Mirko Bordiga, CEO of Ducati Asia, has broken ground on a new factory at a nearby industrial estate at Amata City.

This is located just inland from the Pattaya Beach resort well known to Western tourists, and 120km from

Bangkok, where a new companyowned Ducati Cafe will open in March.

Amata rejoices in the nickname of ‘The Detroit of the East’, thanks to the many automotive suppliers and manufacturing facilities located there, with a deep-water port close at hand - BMW builds all its 7-series cars sold in Asian markets at Amata, for instance. It’s understood that, like Triumph, Ducati will initially begin manufacturing just individual components from mid-2011 onwards at their new Thai plant, but in due course intends to build complete bikes there, initially the lower-cost, lowertech Monster and Hypermotard two-valve air-cooled Desmodue range.

As Triumph has already found, this will allow the Italian marque to be more competitive pricewise in Asian markets - Thailand has free trade agreements with countries throughout the region while also holding down manufacturing costs for bikes built at its Bologna base.

Triumph is a non-union company, but like any comparable manufacturing operation in Italy, and especially one based in Bologna - La Città Rossa was the traditional home of the Italian Communist Party in past times, and is still fiercely socialist today - Ducati has a powerful trade union membership. The situation is complicated by the fact that the company already has an agreement

Ducati’s Borgo Panigale plant (above) in Bologna is heavily unionised and staff are likely to resist the transfer of major production activities to the new Amata plant in Thailand

dating from April 2009 with the unions representing its 950-strong Bologna workforce, concerning the proposed move of its entire Bologna operations from its existing 115,000 sq.m. factory in the suburb of Borgo Panigale, for an all-new, ultra-modern, purpose-built plant on a 165,000 sq.m. site less than a kilometre away. This is currently in the process of construction, and when completed will allow the now private company’s owners, the Bonomi familycontrolled hedge fund Investindustrial and its partners, to cash in on the spiraling value – even in a recession – of the land on which the present factory is located.

This has been approved by the authorities for redevelopment as part of the deal, with housing, retail properties and office space all envisaged for the site where, for more than half a century, the world’s only desmodromic motorcycles have been constructed. This move was surely a key part of the rationale behind the privatisation of Ducati earlier in 2009, as yielding a healthy cash payoff while at the same time funding a substantial part of the costs of equipping the all-

new manufacturing facility.

However, a clause in the agreement with the workforce relating to the move provides that “the new factory must contain all elements of the existing production activities” - a commitment that’s self-evidently at odds with the decision to move at least some of these offshore. Giancarlo Muzzarelli, the local Emilia Romagna region’s Minister for Production Activities, Trade Unions and Workers, met with Ducati CEO Gabriele Del Torchio on December 12 to discuss the situation, after which he declared that Del Torchio had assured him that "Ducati will not reduce its activity in the main plant - what it presently does in Bologna, it will continue doing”.

But the Italian unions are demanding “a clear, precise and explicit agreement with guarantees that all stages of the [Ducati] production cycle will remain in Bologna”. The crunch will come later this month, when Del Torchio and Muzzarelli will hold a decisive meeting with Ducati employees, to explain the Thai project in greater detail. Watch this space!

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

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CATHCART REPORT

Mantoni quits as Triumph CEO IT’S an ill wind that blows nobody any good. Triumph has been one of the handful of companies – in Western markets, only BMW compares – to have held steady in the face of the global economic downturn, with annual production levels at its two factories in Britain and three in Thailand remaining buoyant as sales hold steady just south of the 48,000-unit peak they hit in 2008. That’s allowed the British manufacturer to gain market share very significantly in the 30 countries where its products are currently sold, with its global take reaching 4.7% of worldwide sales of over-500cc motorcycles in 2010, up from 3.4% in 2009, with a 5.5% share targeted for 2011. That’s reflected in the growth of its model range, which in 2007 comprised 13 different models, rising to 16 for 2010 with a substantial hike to 20 distinct bikes in 2011, and further expansion into new model sectors not presently catered for by Triumph dealers in 2012 and beyond.

Product Manager Simon Warburton, the man charged with overseeing this growth in

product development, reports that the current 165 R&D engineers employed at Triumph’s Hinckley factory (out of a total 600 employees there), are about to be joined by another ten qualified technicians, to help drive this expansion.

However, the career in motorcycling of one of the men responsible for this achievement has now ended, when Triumph’s former CEO, Tue Mantoni, returned to his native Denmark in December for personal reasons - he and his wife, also Danish, wished to bring up their young family in their home country. This came eight years after Mantoni first visited Triumph as a 28-year-old leader of the McKinsey management consultancy team brought in by owner John Bloor to explore ways of revitalising the brand after the fire which gutted the Triumph factory in March 2002, by examining the way in which Triumph was run as well as its future strategies, and to offer suggestions for improvement. Mantoni liked what he saw so much that he recommended himself for a job at the British bike builder, and

was first appointed as Sales and Marketing Director, and then quickly advanced to become the firm’s CEO. While continuing to retain links with the company as a non-Executive Director of the Triumph board headed by chairman Lord Digby Jones, former boss of the CBI/Confederation of British Industry and ex-Minister of Trade in the UK government, Mantoni has been replaced as CEO from January 1st by Nick Bloor, the younger of the two sons of Triumph’s owner.

Bloor Junior started with Triumph in 1998 as a design engineer after graduating from nearby Loughborough University, before working his

way through different areas of the company, including the design department, manufacturing, production control, sales and marketing (where he served for five years as Triumph’s export manager), and most recently, with overall responsibility for Triumph’s purchasing department. So he’s had a good hands-on grounding in the day-to-day operation of what is still a private company wholly owned by the Bloor family, and will be looking to keep the company growing in the same way as his predecessor did, with the added challenge of today’s difficult economic conditions.

Triumph CEO Tue Mantoni has quit his job and returned to his native Denmark

Mission Motors: The story so far ISSION Motors grew out of a what-if project started by two friends on opposite sides of the USA who’d met each other through their university Solar Car projects – Edward West from east coast Yale, and Forrest North at the Bay Area’s Stanford.

Later, the pair worked together in biomedical robotics at Velocity11, but wanted to apply their electrical expertise to the EV field. Forrest North joined e-car manufacturer Tesla Motors, working with many of his old Solar Car teammates to build the world's first high-performance electric sportscar. There, what he learned about the new generation of battery packs convinced him the time was ripe to build a no-compromises performance motorcycle that just happened to be powered by an electrical motor, rather than a combustion one.

North, West and Mason Cabot, an electronics guru with 10 years’ experience at Intel who’d given up

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owning a car after being introduced to motorcycling by North, formed Hum Cycles in August 2007 in Cabot’s San Francisco garage, where they began work on converting a Ducati 900SS to electric power as a proof-of-concept package, which also served to generate investment capital. What began as an idea of North’s, and matured as a thesis project of West’s at the Presidio School of Management, with the addition of Cabot was now off and running as a company with a prototype. “One reason we chose the 900SS was that there was room in the frame and inside the bodywork for the motor and battery pack,” says West.

“But the Ducati name spoke to the kind of brand image we wanted to create – a high end quality product with racing overtones. We wanted to create a truly high performance motorcycle, that just happened to be an electric. We didn’t want to tout the environmental benefits to justify low performance.”

Mission’s future COO, now CEO, Jit Bhattacharya, another former

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

Velocity11 roboticist, had like West been at business school, but was all set for a career in banking before North gave him a lift across town late one night aboard the e-Ducati. “It was a mind-altering moment, but also a career-changing one,” says Jit.“By the

time we’d got where we were going, I was totally switched on to the potential the bike represented.

Nothing that’s happened since I came on board here has changed my mind.”

The Ducati’s successful transformation enabled the founders to raise their first

CATHCART REPORT round of funding, allowing them to start work on building the second prototype: a clean sheet e-Superbike design, with performance that’d shift the paradigm of two-wheeled electric vehicles.

Hum Cycles was re-branded as Mission Motors in February 2009, and the new entity and its ground-up prototype named the Mission One were jointly launched at the prestigious TED/Technology Entertainment Design conference in Long Beach that month. This was powered by a specially commissioned engine, which produced a mere 8bhp on the bike’s first dyno run the week after TED! But six months later this had been lifted to 100kW/136bhp in preparation for Bonneville, where the company’s successful record attempt proved its worth, with more to come.

“Nobody had ever created anything like this bike before,” says West, “so it’s been an ongoing process of development and refinement that will continue indefinitely.” ission Motors is now engaged in transposing the lessons learnt from its well-travelled road racing and record-breaking prototype into a customer-ready Mission One road bike model that’s set to commence production in May 2011, with 50 examples up first of the individually numbered Premier Limited Edition version, retailing for $68,995. West claims several pre-orders with deposits for this bike, but says that Mission has no illusions about the importance of living up to expectations. “We’ve all experienced in other industries the challenge of taking products from white paper all the way to production at a legitimate cost, while exceeding customers’ expectations in terms of performance and reliability,” he says.

“We know we must get this right – and we will.” But he reveals that Mission Motors has already begun work on its next-generation lower-cost models, much as Britain’s born-again Norton brand kicked off its 2008 marketplace relaunch with 200 limited

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The Mission Motorsports team

edition high end models, before turning to a volume production version at three-quarters of the price. “But all our future models will still be 100% sportbikes,” insists West. “High performance is in our DNA!” Mission Motors has a cooperative ownership structure that sees all its 15 employees, who include Stanford, Dartmouth, MIT and Yale graduates alongside former Apple, Google and other Silicon Valley dot.com comeovers, owning stock in the company. These stand alongside the 30 or so seed investors so far on board – some of them institutions, some ‘angel’ investors, others just motorcycle enthusiasts who believe in Mission Motors’ mission, and want to be in on the ground floor of the twowheeled EV revolution. As of May 2010 the company had so far raised $2.3 million in working capital, says Bhattacharya – but contrary to some reports, this does not (yet?) include any cash from giant Chinese bike manufacturer Zongshen, although he admits that the two companies have

signed a memorandum of understanding which calls for future cooperation, and a possible joint partnership. “We met Zongshen by chance at a conference in Boston on clean technology,” reveals Bhattacharya.

“With increasing restrictions on gasoline-powered scooters and motorcycles in Chinese cities, it’s quite possible these will be banned altogether in future, and the government there is increasingly eager to switch to EV for personal transportation.

Mission Motors has a core technology in electric vehicle design, especially throttle mapping and proprietary electric drivetrain design, which is completely applicable to low-cost volume products, even though we ourselves will only ever make high performance sportbikes.The chance to transfer some of that knowledge to a market segment we won’t become involved in, while raising revenue to plough into our own R&D, is very appealing. But while we’re still

Riding the Mission One out from its San Francisco base, I discovered it to be a zero emission sportsbike that’s fun to ride, and will outperform an R1 or RSV4 or 1198 off the mark, albeit without the agility and nimble handling of its lighter petrol-engined brethren. It’s a genuine high-performance motorcycle that’s also completely different from the petrol-engined norm

exploring a possible link with Zongshen, they haven’t put any money into Mission yet – and may never do.”

Whatever the outcome of discussions with Zongshen or anyone else, Mission Motors will build its future products in America, says company president Edward West. “It’s part of our mission to help restore manufacturing to the USA, as well as create a cutting edge example of sustainable production, utilizing recycled and recyclable materials,” he says. “We plan to build all our future products here, though not necessarily in California – we’ll place our assembly line in any state that meets our checklist of requirements, and is able to offer us a suitable incentive to establish our manufacturing operation there. But our product development will remain here in San Francisco.”

Alan will be the keynote speaker at an event entitled Motorcycle Journalism – Then and Now at 20.00 on 19/3/2011 at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Hants, UK. Email pr@beaulieu.co.uk for details.

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

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WRP’s new Enduro dual headlight WRP has a new headlight for Enduro bikes, fully CE certified, which has two LED lamps 3W-12V in a ‘cold white’ colour that guarantees a radiant brightness at night, the company says.

Thanks to their low energy consumption, the heat resistant polycarbonate transparent shield that protects the lights does not overheat even after hours of use. This WRP dual headlight is also

characterised by its innovative design, lightweight structure, anti-vibration rubber straps and easy installation.

Each headlight comes complete with LED lamps and assembling kit in a transparent and rigid blister package.

The headlight is available in: black, blue, red, orange and white.

WORKS RACING PARTS Ravenna, ITALY Tel: +39 0544 64024 E-mail: info@wrpracing.com www.wrpracing.com

Stingray rear conversion for Street Triple TRIUMPH specialist SBF in Germany has brought out its Stingray rear conversion kit for the Street Triple, also available for the Speed Triple and Street R. It is a very light, black powder-coated aluminium rear kit of high technical quality, design and manufacture, the company says.

The kit consists of a rear light holder, licence plate holder, cat-eye holder,LED rear light, and a set of screws.

SBF TRIUMPH BIKES & PARTS Filderstadt, GERMANY Tel: +49 (0)711 6553 2722 info@triumph-stuttgart.de www.sbf-triumphparts.de

KTM 250 4T and 450 4T anti-hopping clutch NEW aftermarket anti-hopping clutches for the KTM 250 and 450 4T are now available from Surflex.

The kit includes inner drum and disc-pusher machined from billet Ergal, and hard anodic oxidation treatment gives further resistance to wear, the company says. The nine trimmed disks are covered with special friction material.

The company says that apart from its anti-hopping function, users of the clutch benefit from improved stability in turns, more precise trajectories, reduced vibration, better grip and improved safety.

SURFLEX Tradate (VA), ITALY Tel. 0331-811795 E-mail: surflex@iol.it www.surflex.it

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INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

PRODUCT NEWS

LLS Racing frame and bar protectors BODYGUARD frame protectors are designed to provide maximum damage control in a spill or crash and made from anodised AL7075 Ergal alloy in several colours with a black centre flange and black polymer outer cone, and five matching anodised Barguard bar ends Ergal screws giving enhanced aesthetic appeal and protection.

Available for a wide range of models, they can be serious slide, the polymer cone can be replaced.

Matching Barguard bar ends are also made fixed to the mounting screws between frame and from Ergal with a polymer cone, and come engine without drilling the fairing. in two different designs. The complete kit A new type of high impact-absorbent includes a pair of stabilisers, two pairs of polyamide-based polymer gives anodised Ergal screws in different improved a b ra s i o n lengths, and a pair of cone pads. resistance and sliding Available colours are natural, black, capacity, avoiding any risk gold, red, blue, green and orange. of jamming, thanks also to its shape and surface Bodyguard frame protectors configuration. After a less

Bodyguard on a Yamaha FZ8

LLS RACING Cazzago San Martino (BS), ITALY Tel: +39 0307 255176 E-mail: lls@lls.it www.lls.it

Renthal Twinwall RENTHAL’S patented Twinwall is a large diameter, 11⁄8” (28.6mm) handlebar which uses two tubes, one within the other, borrowing principles from aircraft design to give the best combination of lightness, strength and safety.

Since its release in 1998, the Twinwall has been the handlebar of choice for more professional race teams and has helped more riders win championships than any other handlebar in the world, the company says.

Features include an outer tube made from 7010 T73 alloy, which has extreme resistance to mechanical damage and is anodised to prevent corrosion, and an inner tube in ultra high strength 7010 T6 aluminium, also hard anodised to resist wear from twist grip and controls, rubber seals cover the join to keep out water and cleaning fluids, laser etched positioning grid, and Renthal’s bonded

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lightweight single bolt clamping system for the crossbrace, which greatly increases strength whilst still allowing flex.

There is no knurling in the clamp area, which could cause a stress riser and lead to fatigue failure, and knurling is limited to the grip ends. A specially developed injection moulded crossbar pad is fitted with every handlebar.

Renthal says its Twinwalls are used by more factory racing teams than any other handlebar.

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

RENTHAL Stockport, Cheshire, UK Tel: +44 (0)161 406 6399 E-mail: renthal@renthal.com www.renthal.com

PRODUCT NEWS

MIVV exhausts for Multistrada 1200S MIVV has a long-standing relationship with Ducati – indeed the exhaust of the new Diavel is a MIVV in-house design – and consequently the company has a high level of expertise in twin-cylinders with d e s m o d r o m i c distribution.

It is now offering four advanced exhaust systems for the Ducati Multistrada 1200S: Ghibli, Suono, Oval and GP, all extensively tested to find exactly the right setting with the electronics of the bike and designed so as not to compromise the use of side cases.

They have the following features: Ghibli Stainless Steel – partly hand-made terminal enhanced by exposed TIG welding, innovative and performance oriented.

Suono Stainless Steel – a classic, which integrates seamlessly with the rear train of the motorcycle.

Oval Carbon Cap – a time-tested MIVV product, which underwent a total technical and aesthetic restyling in 2008, now available in total carbon or titanium body configurations and features characteristic slits on the caps.

GP Titanium –The main racing option, with short silencer, enlarged jets, removable and dB Killer, a feature present on all these models.

These four systems are composed of a silencer and

NO-KAT manifold (reducing the load in the central area under the engine and contributing to improved performance). There is a compact heat-shield in anodised aluminium between the two elements.

The gain obtained in terms of torque and power, is impressive with almost 10 hp, according to MIVV, based on the exhaust selected.

MIVV Sant’ Omero (TE), ITALY Tel:+39 0861 8120 237 E-Mail:info@mivv.it www.mivv.it

The Suono is inspired by MIVV’s experience in MotoGP

Ghibli is an ultralightweight system available with titanium or stainless steel internals INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

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PRODUCT NEWS

Arrow MX Competition for Honda CRF models

ARROW and Team Honda Martin have developed an exhaust system for the 2011 Honda CRF 250 and 450, which is currently available from dealers.

The main feature for the two systems is the silencer, designed to match the frame of the two bikes. Its design has been taken from the Trophy silencer from Arrow, and it is made in two sections, welded together, with a carbon end cap.

The shape and design reduce the overall length of the silencer and place it below the right side fairing, giving a weight reduction compared to the original system of around 40%.

The silencer shape with special materials and a purpose-designed dB-killer ensures the exhaust complies with noise regulations.

MX Competition on Honda CRF 250R

ARROW SPECIAL PARTS San Giustino (PG), ITALY Tel: +39 0758 61811 E-mail: info@arrow.it www.arrow.it Honda CRF 450R

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INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

PRODUCT NEWS

SW Motech Crash Bars CONSTRUCTED from heavy-duty steel, SW-Motech Crash Bars are tough, but also lightweight and unobtrusive, and each set is tailor-made to fit the relevant machine, adding only minimal width. In addition, the Crash Bars and components are sandblasted and powdercoated to help prevent corrosion and blend with each model’s styling. As well as providing protection, they are also useful for mounting accessories such as auxiliary fog lamps.

SW-Motech kits normally require no modifications

or cutting of bodywork to fit, and come complete with all the required mounting materials and instructions. New models covered for this winter include the Ducati 1200 Multistrada, Honda CBF1000, Kawasaki Z1000,Triumph Street Triple and Yamaha Super Tenere 1200.

Thanks to UK distributor Motohaus Powersports (www.motohaus.com) for this information.

RapidBike Evo for Ducatis

SW MOTECH Rauschenberg, GERMANY Tel. +49 (0)6425 816800 info@sw-motech.com www.sw-motech.com DIMSPORT’S RapidBike Evo control unit for 2- and 4-valve engines can provide extra power for Ducati models, according to Valentino Damonte, RapidBike’s Product Manager, who calls it an “extraordinary system”.

The company says data recorded at the testbed after fitting the Evo control unit saw an increase of 5hp on a Monster 769 at 5000 revolutions, whereas maximum power on the Multistrada 1200 was boosted by 6.9hp.

Triumph crash bars

Honda crash bars

DIMSPORT TECHNOLOGY Piagera (AL), ITALY Tel:+39 0142955201 E-mail marketing@dimsport.it www.rapidbike.com

PRODUCT NEWS

SBS 2011 catalogue THE new 2011 SBS Master Catalogue has many new applications for motorcycles and scooters, including the latest 2011 models.

New scooter references include SBS 205 to 210, while those for motorcycles are SBS 877 to 880.

Some SBS Motorcycle and Scooter references are now offered in additional compounds or different thicknesses for racing etc. to suit new models with different riding styles, conditions or performance for brake pads already in the SBS range.

Skidmarx fly screen for Triumph ST 1050 BRITISH bike bodywork specialist Skidmarx has developed a screen to maximise the touring potential of Triumph’s Speed Triple 1050.

These include the SBS 181 HF & MS for Yamaha 125 X-Max, front caliper, SBS 204 MS – for Kymco Downtown i 300, rear caliper, SBS 638 RS – for Kawasaki 250 Ninja, front caliper for race and track day use, SBS 675 RQ – for BMW S1000RR, rear caliper for race use, SBS 688 RS – for Honda NSF100 mini racer, front caliper for race use, and SBS 845 DC – for Brembo Racing GP Type caliper, while SBS 782 RS & DC has new total thickness for existing racing compounds.

SCANDINAVIAN BRAKE SYSTEMS Svendborg. DENMARK Phone: +45 63 21 15 15 E-mail: sbs@sbs.dk www.sbs.dk

SBS 877 is a new application for street bikes in metallic and sintered variants

Polini Speed Drive half-pulleys POLINI’S Speed Drive half pulleys for Piaggio and Minarelli 50cc scooters have been further improved with additional precision in dimensions and structural features.

The half pulleys are machined from a single alloy block and have the central bush made of chromed special steel. Great attention to detail has been paid to give the best sliding action and a perfect rotary movement.

These technical features allow for a fantastic speed of engine response, according to Polini, granting more acceleration and pick up while maintaining a consistent rpm.

The particular inclination of the half-pulley eliminates the loss of drive caused by belt slipping while the double series of grooves, respectively of 36° and 38°, allows the personalisation of the transmission setting to comply with the rider’s needs.

For the most extreme tuned-up engines Polini recommends the installation of longer belts than the original ones to have wider gear travel and achieve an increase in power output.

POLINI MOTORI Alzano Lombardo (BG), ITALY Tel: +39 035 2275 111 E-mail: mail@polini.com www.polini.com

Givi Airflow windshield Manufactured from 3mm acrylic, the Skidmarx screen fits to the optional Triumph fly screen cowling that is available as a genuine accessory. Available in both clear and tinted options, the Skidmarx screen is supplied pre-drilled and with fittings.

SKIDMARX Weymouth, Dorset, UK Tel: +44 (0)1305 780808 E-mail: sales@skidmarx.co.uk www.skidmarx.co.uk

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THE Airflow windshield is made from transparent polycarbonate and is height adjustable, with the upper part moving up and down on two 13cm tracks.

Givi says the special shape of the fixed and mobile parts on the windshield create an aerodynamic effect that eliminates turbulence, allowing for maximum protection from wind and weather. The upper spoiler can be completely removed if desired.

The Airflow is currently available for the following vehicles:Yamaha Majesty, Honda SW-T400, Kymco Xciting 300/500, Honda Silver Wing 400/600, Piaggio MP3 and BMW R1200GS. GIVI Flero (BS), ITALY Tel: +39 030 3581253 E-mail: info@givi.it www.givi.it

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

PRODUCT NEWS

New soft luggage from Kappa NEW products include the TKW744 Tail Pack Roller, which has a 30-litre carrying capacity, fully waterproof seam-welded PVC construction, and a rolling TKW744 Tail Pack Roller

closing system that ensures the packâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contents stay dry.

Integral elastic webbing ensures easy attachment, while the striking white base colour is both distinctive and stylish.

TKW745 backpackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 30-litre main compartment features the

duty shoulder and waist straps ensure security, while padding for the upper and lower back aids comfort.

The TK742 Mini Tail Bag is designed specifically for enduro, trail and off-road and attaches via four belts. Made from tough polyester with a non-slip rubber base, it has stiffened sides and double stitching to aid durability, waterproof zips and an interior bag to separate tools from inner tubes. A rain cover is included.

Tanky system fitted

The Tanky Soft Fitting System is designed specifically for motorcycles with plastic fuel tank covers. Tailored to each model the Tanky base is constructed from non-scratch and non-slip material, with dual belts anchoring it around the steering head and frame. The bag attaches securely to the base with zips and access to the fuel cap is easy; simply undo the rear zip and tilt the bag forward.

Tanky mount

TKW745 Rucksack

same fully waterproof seamwelded PVC construction as the Tail Pack Roller, and an identical rolling closing system. HeavyTK742 Mini Tail Bag

The Tanky is currently available for the Honda FireBlade, Yamaha FZ1/Fazer, BMW R1200GS and F800GS, with Honda VFR 800 and 1200 available soon.

KAPPA Flero (BS), ITALY Tel: +39 0302 680374 E-mail: info@kappamoto.com www.kappamoto.com INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

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PRODUCT NEWS

PS 465 Series Shock

Stock height and lowered applications are currently available for DragStar/Road Star, KLR650, Yamaha Raider, Honda ST1300, Suzuki V-Strom, Suzuki M109R/M1800R and more, with more models being constantly added.

See www.progressivesuspension.com for applications.

PROGRESSIVE Suspension, part of the MAG Group, has added the new R.A.P. (Remote Adjustable Preload) to its 465 Series line of high performance monoshocks. The 46mm bore shock also has features such as deflective disc damping, threaded body, 5-position rebound adjuster and remote mounting bracket.

MAG EUROPE Denton, Manchester, UK Tel: +44 (0) 161 337 4390 E-mail: den@mageurope.eu www.mageurope.eu

Motorex motorcycle coolants MOTOREX has completed its range of lubricants and care products with a series of top quality coolants for motorcycles. Coolant G30 and Coolant G48 combine perfect temperature control with optimum cooling system protection, according to the company.

These products are designed to provide optimum temperature management and a well-balanced formulation. Based on hybrid technology, the nitrite-, amine- and phosphate-free G48 with its extremely high heat capacity offers maximum wear and corrosion protection and efficiently prevents deposit from forming inside the cooling system. G30 has been

specially developed for highly stressed aluminium engines on the basis of organic acids (OAT technology). It is also silicate-free, which makes it even more resistant against ageing.

Both products are available as concentrates for workshop use in packages of 25, 60 and 200 litres. Motorists can also choose pre-mixed ‘ready to use’ formulations of both, sold in the patented Motorex onelitre flasks with integral spouts, as well as pre-mixed

G48 in 25 and 60 litre packages. Pre-mixed, both ensure freezing protection down to –33°C. Thanks to their outstanding protection of metals, elastomers and seals, as well as their efficient deposit prevention, all products guarantee extended coolant change intervals, maximum reliability and high engine durability.

Both coolants fulfil the most stringent requirements of various manufacturers. Honda und Triumph recommend them for exclusive use, and G48 is identically formulated as the previous Motorex product recommended in KTM operating manuals.

MOTOREX Langenthal, SWITZERLAND Tel: +41 (0)62 91975 75 E-mail: info@motorex.com www.motorex.com

PRODUCT NEWS

New OptiMate 4 Dual Program TECMATE says the latest version of its popular Optimate 4 charger and tester is the ultimate all-inone tool for 12V battery care at home, able to diagnose, recover, charge, test and optimally maintain the battery automatically. Dual Program functionality enables users to charge the battery direct or select the program to charge via the 12V port on a CAN-bus equipped bike.

With automatic Key-Less activation, OptiMate 4 Dual Program will charge and maintain any battery automatically until it is disconnected.The model also includes low voltage pulse recovery for recovery of neglected sulphated batteries; a user-friendly battery test at connection; a weatherproof enclosure with built-in mounting lugs and improved energy efficiency.

The alternating test and charge maintenance program is designed to provide the recommend maintenance voltage for AGM / GEL batteries whilst reducing the average voltage as required by STD filler cap batteries, making it ideal for indefinite and

Powerbronze style kit for Z1000

100% safe long-term maintenance charging of any type of 12V lead-acid battery.

Tecmate says the OptiMate 4 Dual Program can extend a batteryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life by up to 400%.

TECMATE INTERNATIONAL Tienen, BELGIUM Tel: +32 (0)16 805 440 E-mail: sales@tecmate-int.com www.tecmate-int.com

protectors and fork protectors.

Coming soon will be a lens cover, mesh vented seat cowl and carbon fibre rear hugger.

The carbon fibre belly pan for the Z1000 2010 incorporates the original exhaust heat shield from the bike into a one-piece design. Incorporated into the design are stylised silver or gold meshed vents.

Designed to provide better wind protection for the rider, the Powerbronze airflow screen for the Z1000 includes a larger bubble, increasing the height to 415 mm. The screen uses the original fixings from the Kawasaki standard screen for ease of fitting.

THE complete kit for the 2010 Kawasaki Z1000 from Powerbronze includes airflow screen, mesh vented rear hugger, carbon fibre belly pan, front mudguard, tank cover, side panels, exhaust end cap, stainless steel eliminator, badged crash posts, swingarm

POWERBRONZE INTERNATIONAL Littlehampton, West Sussex, UK Tel: +44 (0)1903 783222 E-mail: sales@powerbronze.co.uk www.powerbronze.co.uk

Dark tint

Light tint

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

27

DC AFAM

PRODUCT NEWS

New smart charger by BS Battery scooter batteries; and it comes in two different versions – desktop type and adaptor type.The BS Charger range includes chargers from 0.6A to 21A output current.

BS Battery has introduced its latest innovative new line of smart chargers.

The 5 to 7 stage advanced technology combined with a reconditioning function has been especially designed to be used on all 6V/12V lead acid battery types including GEL, AGM, maintenance free and conventional types.

The new model, purely developed for motorcycle and scooter batteries, is the 1A model, providing the following main advantages: fully automatic charger and maintainer; 100% controlled by microprocessor, designed for all 6V & 12V lead acid battery types, ideal for long-term maintenance of motorcycle and

BS BATTERY Paris, FRANCE Tel: +33 (0)6 89 66 29 13 E-mail: eproia@bs-battery.com www.bs-battery.com

Adventure bike and maxi scooter products FOLLOWING the recent release of its huggers, chain guards, shocktube and braided brake lines, motorcycle crash protection specialist R&G has brought out new adventure bike and maxi scooter products.

Powder-coated for durability, ultra-strong Adventure Bars encase the engine and, for some applications, can be used in tandem with R&G’s Aero crash protectors to further extend protection.

Initially available for the Yamaha Super Ténéré 1200, they will soon be available for a whole range of popular adventure and touring bikes, including the Honda Varadero, Suzuki V-Strom, BMW R1200GS, Triumph

Tiger 800 and Kawasaki GTR1400.

Their Urban range for maxi scooters includes bolt-on footboard sliders, designed to reduce damage to the side of the scooter in the event of a drop or slide,that mount directly onto a special tread plate with a rubberised boot grip insert.

R&G RACING Alton, Hants, UK Tel: +44 (0)1420 89007 E-mail: info@rg-racing.com www.rg-racing.com

‘Urban’ maxi scooter sliders with rubberised grip tread plate

Yamaha Super Ténéré 1200 powder-coated Adventure Bars

PRODUCT NEWS

Brake levers and halogen headlights for Yamaha Aerox and MBK Nitro OPTICPARTS DF has launched its Top Custom Line to provide custom parts of the highest possible quality with the latest design.

The first products in the line are CNC-machined brake levers, either chromium-plated, black matt anodised, or white brilliantly varnished for the Yamaha Aerox and MBK Nitro, with halogen headlights also available for these models, as well as for the Peugeot Speedfight 2.

Brake levers

OPTICPARTS DF Solingen, GERMANY Tel.+49 (0)212 3837613 E-mail: info@opticparts.de www.opticparts.de

Streetfighter lights

Aerox lights

K-MaxX Fatty handlebar THE K-MaxX Fatty is a 32mm diameter tapered aluminium handlebar in classic superbike style, 780mm wide, middle diameter 31.9 mm and 22.2 mm outside.

The company says it is an excellent alternative to stock handlebars since brake lines, trains and cable remain mostly unchanged.

The K-MaxX handlebars are made from high-strength and flexible

aluminium alloy, developed with a view to gaining the best steering feel and feedback from the front wheel.

All K-MaxX handlebars and clamps are produced following the latest, more stringent EU directives.They are also T端Vtested and supplied with T端V approval.

The K-MaxX Fatty is available in black, silver, titanium and orange, and the appropriate handlebar clamps in silver and black.

K-MAXX MOVING TECHNOLOGY Recklinghausen, GERMANY Tel: +49 (0)2361 373725 E-mail: info@k-maxx.org www.k-maxx.org

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

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MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Spidi Carbo Winter glove THE Carbo Winter is Spidi’s top-of-therange cowhide winter touring glove and has triple fastening, aerodynamic knuckle padding, side wrist stretch panels and high performance leather with Keramide layers.

All these race-oriented features are coupled with a H2OUT membrane waterproof barrier and soft Primaloft wadding, as well as triple layers over the side of the small finger, grip palm and an anti-water intrusion sleeve.

The carbon knuckle padding with raised profiles represents one of the key developments for Spidi gloves in

™

2011, the company says.

This improves shock absorbance, helps sliding after a crash and improves aerodynamics.

SPIDI SPORT Sarego (VI), ITALY Tel: +39 0444 436411 E-mail: info@spidi.it www.spidi.com

CGM 504 Thunderbolt flip-up This new, keenly-priced modular ECE R 22-05 homologated design from CGMItalia weighs 1,600g and comes in a size range from XS to XXL with antiscratch paint treatment.

The Air Stream System ventilation uses vents and interior channels for optimum air flow. The inner lining is removable, anti-allergic and anti-bacterial, and there are removable cheek pads.

Thunderbolt has an anti-scratch and interior tinted visor.

ISSN 1476-8747

FEBRUARY 2011

Weise Parka PART of the Weise Urban Collection, the Parka Jacket is designed to offer the best of all worlds: protection from the elements whilst on the bike and plenty of practicality and style off it.

It is made from water-resistant material, has a full-length zipped front closure with button-down storm flap, elasticated wrist sections and a fully adjustable internal pull cord at the waist to keep out the elements and allow a snug and comfortable fit.

The Parka has pockets at the shoulders and elbows designed for the insertion of CE-approved armour, which is available separately.

Whilst off the scooter, the Parka’s large faux fur-trimmed hood offers extra protection from the cold, and both the trim and hood can be quickly and easily removed for long rides.

Also useful both on and off the bike are the five external pockets including one zipped pocket on the upper left arm.

The Parka jacket is available in ‘Stone’ in sizes XS-XXL.

FOWLERS/WEISE Bristol, Avon, UK Tel +44 (0)117 977 0466 E-mail: sales@fowlers.co.uk www.weise-clothing.co.uk

CGMITALIA Gricignano di Aversa (CE), ITALY Tel: +39 081 813 1743 E-mail: info@cgmitalia.net www.cgmitalia.net

MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

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MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Project Smarty THE Smarty demi-jet is the new entry-level model from Italian open-face helmet specialist Project.

Smarty incorporates all the elements of its successful older siblings, says Project, from security features to the removable, washable, hypoallergenic and breathable microfibre lining. It has a

detachable collar to enhance comfort in all temperatures, as well as a quick-release micrometric closure, and its design is aimed at young urban riders, particularly fashionconscious younger women.

Project says Smarty represents excellent value for money, is probably the smallest and most compact helmet in its class, is easily stowable in most scooter under-seat compartments and comes in nine colours.

PROJECT Marcignago (PV), ITALY Tel: +39 0382 921772 info@projectforsafety.it www.projectforsafety.it

Falco 2011 range ITALIAN riding boot manufacturer Gianni Falco has a number of new models for 2011, designed to offer an excellent price-quality ratio and with a number of new features, including d3o shock absorption.

The 309 ESO Pro Racing Line topof-the-range racing boot has a cowhide upper, Air-Tech vented inner lining, ESO exo-skeleton protection, removable inner bootie with d3o impact energy dissipation system, Tech-Toe forefoot protection, replaceable alu-titan sliders, buckle and zipper closure, instep flex area with double-density material and dual-density racing rubber sole with reinforced arch support. Colours are white and black.

The 317 Oxegen Racing Line midrange sport and touring boot has a cowhide upper, High-Tex waterproof membrane lining, removable inner

bootie with d3o, vented shin, heel and rear calf plate protection system, replaceable sliders, Velcro and zipper closure, and double compound racing sole. Colours are white/â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, black, black/white, black/red and black/blue.

Falco 113 Extreme Pro 2 off-road boots are comfortable, flexible and protective, the company says. They have a cowhide upper,Air-Tech vented inner lining, all-round ESO skeleton protection, removable inner bootie with d3o, self-locking alu-buckle closure, MX Eso-Motion rear supportive system, instep flex area and a dual-density racing rubber sole.

Colours are black and white.

113 Extreme Pro 2 has a MX EsoMotion rear support system

GIANNI FALCO Caselle di Altivole (TV),ITALY Tel:+39 0423 915272 E-mail:info@giannifalco.com www.giannifalco.com 309 Eso LX has advanced exoskeleton protection 317 Oxegen has a cowhide upper and waterproof membrane lining

The inner bootie now has a d3o impact energy dissipation system

32

MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Wind Racewear 2011 GPE combination AT the recent INTERMOT and EICMA exhibitions, Wind Raceware introduced its new GPE off-road racing set, which will be worn this year by 2010 U.E.M. European Bajas Championship winner Paolo Ceci.

GPE pants and jersey provide riders with maximum comfort, the company says, and are sold separately at an affordable price. They come in both adult and childrensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sizes and three colour combinations: grey/black, white/blue, black/red.

GPE is one of a number of stylish off-road apparel models in the new 2011 Wind Raceware catalogue, which can be ordered or downloaded from the website.

The QR code (or box code) found on the back cover of the catalogue is readable by mobile phones with a camera and smartphones. Snap a picture of it with your phone and you

Paolo Ceci will be wearing GPE for the 2011 season

will automatically be linked to Wind Racewareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website. www.windraceware.com

The 2011 catalogue has an automatic link from any smartphone to the company website

MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

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MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Lazer Monaco ultra-light flip-up MONACO is the latest flip-up model from Lazer Helmets, which claims the helmet is the lightest of its class at only 1,310g for the pure carbon and 1,450g for the fibreglass version.

The Monaco is homologated as a full-face and a jet, and available in sizes XXS – XXL. Security features include a micrometric buckle, the new Lumino photochromic visor as standard, red rear reflector, one-hand opening system, minimal air resistance when opened, 3M Scotchlite reflective zones and optimised EPS upper insert protection.

It has double chin ventilation, triple top ventilation, rear and side extractors, ventilation air nets, Dri-Lex removable

and washable interior with Aegis antimicrobial treatment, Morpho System cheek and head pads available in exact size, removable noise reduction pads, removable chin curtain, multicompressible tubular visor seal, and acoustic collar for noise reduction.

The helmet is precabled for the Lazer Blue communications kit and comes with a special helmet bag.

Lazer says its new Lumino photochromic visor gives 90% light transmission in its clear state,darkening to 20% in full sunlight. The key advantages of this system are that no protective inner layers are removed to make space for an internal sun visor, no manipulation is required, the darkening is fully adaptive and its polarising

Monaco Pure > black carbon

Monaco Pure > Carbon metal white

optical qualities enhance visibility.

The Lumino visor automatically cuts glare by up to 80%

LAZER HELMETS Mont-St-Guibert, BELGIUM Tel: +32 (0)10 300 300 corporate@lazerhelmets.com www.lazerhelmets.com

Sommer jacket from Scott

ventilation and protection from the elements, the company says.

Comfort has been enhanced with CE approved shoulder and elbow protectors located in external pockets, which gives a better mobility and freedom of movement.

SCOTT Sports has a number of new jackets for 2011 in its Onroad line including the Sommer vented TP blouson.

This is a ventilated blouson equipped with a waterproof and breathable tri-phase removable liner, usable from Spring to Fall thanks to its advanced

SCOTT SPORTS Givisiez, SWITZERLAND Tel: +41 (0)26 460 1616 info@scott-sports.com www.scott-sports.com

Marushin customisable DJ Concept MARUSHIN says its DJ line, first launched at INTERMOT 2010, is the first fully customisable helmet concept.

The customer can choose from several shell colours, different metal ring styles, inner liners, covers, overcoats and connectable accessories.

For information on this and other new lines, the 2011 catalogue is available from the company’s website and Facebook page.

MARUSHIN Ober-Mörlen, GERMANY Tel: +49 (0)6002 910 391 E-mail: info@marushin.de www.marushin-helmets.jp

DJ Concept Army

DJ Concept Football

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MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

DJ Concept Rusty

DJ Concept Plain

MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Spyke City GT urban leather jackets THE recent urban range from Spyke contains a number of elegant leather and textile jackets, including the City Man and Lady GT. The leather version of the City GT is made from soft Nappa 0.8/0.9 mm thick full-grain cow leather with a fixed smooth inside lining in polyester and removable interior thermal padding in polyester and polyamide, removable CE-approved shoulder and elbow protectors, back protector pocket, removable hood, five external and four internal pockets.

Rebel off-road helmet from DMD DMDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Rebel MX helmet is both strong and light, the company says, with a shell made from Carbon Kevlar.

It has an advanced ventilation

It has button collar closure and zip and button wrist closure, adjustable waist with strap and double buttons.

The Lady GT leather jacket has a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fit and four external pockets.

The City GT Man and Lady also come in water-repellent textile versions with a nylon Ottoman outer and Teflon treatment for maximum abrasion resistance.

SPYKE Bassano del Grappa (VI), ITALY Tel: +39 0424 513 052 E-mail: info@spyke.it www.spyke.it

system and a strap system enabling quick removal of cheek pads and helmet.

Available in four graphic schemes, the weight is around 1 kg and the helmet and components are all made in Italy.

DMD HELMET Bergamo, ITALY Tel:+39 035 362006 contact@dmdhelmet.com www.dmdhelmet.com

MOTORCYCLE FASHION

REVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;IT Everest GTX combination THE Everest GTX jacket features a number of high-tech fabrics including Gore-Tex Armacor 3L Cool and Misano 3L TFL Cool, as well as a Gore-Tex Pro Shell stretch 3L membrane. For extra insulation there is a detachable Exkin Air thermal liner. The jacket also uses the Gore Lockout closure on its chest pockets.

To complement the jacket, the Everest trousers use the same high quality performance fabrics with a Lockout closure on the upper leg to enhance ventilation as well as provide full waterproof protection.

Protection comes from a full suit of SaS Tec CE-protectors and fully perforated EVA foam.

It has a short and long connection zipper, collar hook, stretch removable thermal

IDI Stripes from NewMax NEWMAX has challenged the usual reserve of urban helmets with new colours and graphics for its IDI Stripes helmet range.

Designed to be trendy and ironic, the company says even the most helmet-resistant fashionista will be seduced by the explosive palette of colours and playful graphics.

IDI Stripes Fluo

IDI Stripes

36

MIN-IDI Stripes

The wearer also becomes more conspicuous, and therefore more visible to motorists, an important safety consideration.

The collection includes three models: IDI Stripes; IDI Stripes Fluo and MIN-IDI Stripes without visor, which come in 31 different colour and graphic combinations.

Sizes range from XXS to XXL, the visor is in polycarbonate with antiscratch treatment and it has removable lining.

All Newmax helmets meet ONUECE 22-05 homologation and manufacturing processes are certified ISO 9001:2008.

NEWMAX Mirabello Monferrato (AL), ITALY Tel: +39 0142 64800 E-mail: info@newmax.it www.newmax.it

MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

collar, storm cuff, inner pocket, hand warmer pockets and waterproof stash pockets.

This jacket is a new release for 2011, and pre-orders are being taken for delivery in March.

REVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;IT Oss, NETHERLANDS Tel: +31 (0)41 269 6757 E-mail: info@revit.eu www.revit.eu

Ixon Granit textile jacket MAIN features of the Granit are a Neoprene high neckroll, reinforcements on shoulders, and flex on elbows and at back of armholes.

It has three-layer Softshell construction which is waterproof and gives enhanced thermal protection, as well as zipped front fastening and a windproof flap with snap closure.

The tightening system on the sleeves, waist and cuffs also has snap closures and the jacket comes with outside zipped pockets, internal pockets and a wallet pocket.

IXON Macon Loche, FRANCE Tel: +33 (0)3 85 32 95 95 E-mail: aemf@ixon.fr www.ixon.fr

MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Premier Dream Liner flip-up THE Dream Liner from Premier has a shell made from tri-composite materials – carbon, aramidic fibres and Dyneema – giving the helmet a total weight of less than 1,500g. The shape of the shell is particularly aerodynamic, making it one of the quietest modular helmets on the market, according to the company.

The opening mechanism of the chin-piece is actioned by a single button push, the inner shell is in different density EPS in two separate sizes to guarantee the best shock absorbing capacity. The inner lining is fully removable and washable, made using anallergenic fabrics with sanitized treatment, while the chinstrap has a quick release buckle with micrometric regulation.

The ventilation system works through two adjustable air vents on the chin-piece and one on the upper

part of the front, and a rear air vent evacuates the hot and humid air. The Dream Liner also has a stabilisation spoiler to reduce turbulence.

The new visor mechanism is adjustable and allows the removal of the visor without the need for a tool.

The transparent 2.2mm polycarbonate visor is injection-moulded and has both anti-fog and anti-scratch treatments.

Dream Liner also has an internal dark sun visor that can be moved with

a lever placed on the left side of the shell.

Sizes go from XS to XXL and the helmet is available in four different monocolour versions. All Premier helmets are ECE 22-05 certified.

PREMIER HELMETS Gallicano (LU), ITALY Tel: +39 0583 730310 E-mail: info@premier.it www.premier.it

Gaerne GP1 boot Zandona jointed kneeguard

THE all-new GP1, the latest product from Gaerne’s research and development centre, is a racing boot with a number of technical innovations designed for security and comfort.

It is made of Lorica, a supple and breathable high-tech material, and has an elasticised instep with polyurethane inserts to ensure a snug fit. The antibacterial and breathable preshaped inner lining also gives enhanced comfort and fit in the shin, ankle and heel areas, the company says.

The unique Gaerne Floating System, made of carbon composite, allows the foot to move naturally and prevents ankle twisting without compromising flexibility. At the back of the boot, and fixed at two points, it runs inside two

slots that limit movement in both directions, preventing hyper extension or compression. External polyurethane protectors minimise the impact of a fall and facilitate sliding.

Other features include an anti-shock heel cup, adjustable and replaceable buckle for a custom-fit around the calf, magnesium toe slider, PU front shin plate, interchangeable nylon front slider, closure system comprising of internal zip protected by rubber strip. It has an elastic insert in the ankle area which facilitates the closure of the boot, a heat resistant gaiter, two grip guards on inner calf and heel and shifter protection.

GP1 has a variable density, oil and wear-resistant rubber sole featuring a unique design that provides excellent grip. The inner sole has a fully removable and washable, anatomically designed footbed which ensures even weight distribution and provides full support to all parts of the foot. The heel is reinforced with a special shock-absorbing material and the toe-area is perforated for improved air flow.

JOINTED kneeguards are designed to protect knee and shin, with the positioning of the elastic straps guaranteeing a perfect stability of the kneeguard while the jointing, which gives 90° movement, allows the leg to move freely.

It has a high-performance, impact-absorbent external structure made from special plastic-alloy with internal thermo-formed support.

It is EN-1621-2/03 approved, and comes in black and white and in adult sizes only.

ZANDONA Caerano di San Marco (TV), ITALY Tel: +39 0423 569 135 Email: info@zandona.net www.zandona.net

GAERNE Coste di Maser (TV), ITALY Tel: +39 0423 923169 E-mail: gaerne@gaerne.com www.gaerne.com MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

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MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Shiro 2011 collection THE SH-20 is a demi-jet with multiple graphics and a shell made from thermoplastic fibre. Three shell sizes are available, with interior sizing from YS (50, for children) up to XXL (61).

Graphic styles include Tres Chic (Black and White) and Comics. The other graphics are monocolour (available in Pink, Red, Matt Black, Gloss Black, Titan Grey, Pearl White) and Maui red.

The SH-202 Napoli is an adult version with classic lines that celebrate the south of Italy, with bioskin finish, two shell sizes and

SH-202 Napoli has a bio-skin finish

SH-20 Maui comes in three shell sizes

SH-80 Art Design is characterised by strong graphics

internal sizing from S (54) up to XXL (62).

The SH-80 Art Design jet is a helmet for urban use with a thermoplastic resin shell and particularly strong graphics themed towards modern art.

Held Rainstar and Arctic gloves RAINSTAR touring gloves from Held have a goatskin palm and supple cowhide back, with Outlast and pique push-pull lining on the inside and a GoreTex waterproof membrane.

Features include a special flat seam, Velcro adjustment at wrists and cuffs, elasticated leather panels on back, thumb and fingers, a perforated leather back, a visor wipe and 3M Scotchlite reflective piping.

The glove has leather-covered hard plastic knuckle protection, with highly abrasion-resistant stingray leather underlaid with shock-absorbing gel on the ball of the thumb.

Arctic winter gloves have a goatskin palm and a Taslan (100% polyester) back, with

Thinsulate lining on the inside and a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane.

Features include Velcro adjustment at wrists and cuffs, zips at the cuffs, elasticated leather panels on back, thumb and fingers, a visor wipe and 3M Scotchlite reflectors.

The glove has leather-covered hard plastic knuckle protection, special foam knuckle and finger protection and Superfabric reinforcement on the edge of the hand. Both gloves are available in black.

HELD Burgberg, GERMANY Tel: +49 (0)8321 66460 E-mail: info@held.de www.held-biker-fashion.de

SHIRO HELMETS Murcia, SPAIN Tel: +34 968 585 186 shiro@shirohelmet.com www.shirohelmet.com

Arctic gloves have a goatskin palm and Taslan back

Features of the Rainstar include visor wipe and knuckle protection

Scorpion VX-17 Air THE Scorpion VX-17 Air weighs 1,230g and is equipped with the Airfit concept, which enables the wearer to inflate or deflate cheek pads in the helmet to give a close fit to the contours of the face, which the company says gives better protection and reduces lift and noise.

It has an advanced tri-composite fibreglass/ Kevlar/Dyneema Matrix shell with UV-coating, a fullyadjustable aero-tuned visor, which reduces lift at high speeds and a large eyeport which fits all goggles and provides maximum visibility.

The KwikWick moisturewicking, breathable helmet liner and cheek pads are completely

38

MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

removable and washable with triple density foam. A strap grip keeps the goggle strap in place and it has a padded chin strap with a QuickRelease double D ring fastening.

The ventilation system includes large intake manifolds and aero-tuned rear vents which maximise airflow through the helmet.

The Exo VX-17 comes in a range of colours and graphic styles including Letters Puzzle (pictured) and is ECE 22-05 certified.

SCORPION SPORTS EUROPE Strasbourg/Schiltigheim, FRANCE Tel:+33 039 022 2299 info@scorpionsports.eu www.scorpionsports.eu

MOTORCYCLE FASHION

Four season jackets and gloves from OJ ADV is a technical touring and street jacket with numerous possible adjustments, giving enhanced comfort in all weather, including a removable waterproof membrane and thermal

padding.

It has a polyester outer, reinforced inserts, four outside pockets, ventilation system, waterproof zips, removable CE protectors on elbows and shoulders, and a padded back. Sizes are XS to 3XL and it is available in black.

Kiss is a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterproof four seasons jacket optimised for urban use. It has a fixed waterproof membrane and removable thermal padding, an inside pocket, reflective inserts, removable CE protectors on elbows and shoulders and shock-absorbing padding on the back.

Sizes are XS to 2XL and it is available in black. It is specially tailored for a comfortable female fit and has four convenient pockets.

Mister/Lady gloves have a

ADV jacket

Lady gloves

Kiss jacket

Mister gloves

waterproof and breathable inner membrane, a microfleece lining and a cotton thermal padding. The waterproofing is further enhanced by water repellent treatment on the outer skin.

With a reinforced non-slip palm and elastic wrist, they are available in black in numerous sizes.

OJ ATMOSFERE METROPOLITANE Milan, ITALY Tel: +39 02 26117342 info@ojatmosfere metropolitane.com www.ojatmosfere metropolitane.com MOTORCYCLE FASHION - FEBRUARY 2011

39

Fran ce ove r the the big rise in urba n com mut ing in One com pan y taki ng advanta ge of Cot e d’A zur, the on aël ufac ture r bas ed at St-R aph last few yea rs is GPA , a helm et man cial mer Com , visit ion seg men ts. On a rece nt spe cial ising in the sco oter and fash dire ctio n. re futu its and y Al Fran ck abo ut the com pan Dire ctor Patr ice Dup uis told IDN ’s PA began life in the 1970s as Groupement de Protection Automobile, a manufacturer of car helmets, which soon also built up head protection product ranges for motorcyclists, firefighters and the military.

The company made a number of iconic helmets, including in the 1980s the famous SJ (Sans Jugulaire), worn by many Formula 1 champions including Alain Prost and Gilles Villeneuve.

The company was acquired by an American group in 2001, which was mainly interested in its military activities, and entrepreneur David Morelli, who was already involved in the motorcycle sector, bought the moulds and patents for all its motorcycle activities, as well as the GPA brand itself.

Morelli also has a stake in Italian helmet maker Osbe, whose production line in Italy makes the bulk of GPA helmets.

GPA has three separate departments. GPA – for the general motorcycle and scooter market, GPA Special Projects – for state sector and military contracts, and GPA OEM, which makes helmets for luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton.

GPA Special Projects has in recent years won contracts to supply the prestigious Monaco police force, a number of African police forces, the French Army and Post Office. The latter is a huge market, according to Dupuis, who expresses surprise (and some contentment) at the rate at which French postmen and women’s helmets need replacing.

G

40

Delivery truck outside the company’s Saint Raphaël facility, which has a 1,000 sq.m. warehouse and 500 sq.m. of offices

n the consumer market, other than the GPA midto-high level brand, the company has two other brands: GPA Design for the high-end fashion segment and G.PAX for younger moped and scooter riders. In 2010 the proportion of total sales from each brand were respectively 50%, 15% and 35%, but Dupuis forecasts that GPA Design will gain increasing importance in coming years. Turnover increased 30% over the last three years, according to the company.

GPA and GPA Design helmets are made on the Osbe production line in Turin, and 90% of the latter’s

I

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

production is for GPA. Some of the same helmets branded Osbe in Italy are sold under the GPA brand in the rest of Europe, although several GPA lines are not sold at all by Osbe. Some GPA lines are also made in Spain.

“We pressed on with our idea to set up GPA Design in 2009 despite the economic difficulties, because we were convinced that people need reassurance, that they still want beautiful things, and we have been proved right.” says Dupuis. “The GPA Design Pendhor is the spearhead of this new trend.”

He adds that one of the keys to the company’s

INDUSTRY EXTRA GPA Commercial Director Patrice Dupuis is one of the company’s ten permanent staff in France

>>>

GPA Aircraft Kamikaze: Double screen (clear and smoke), Synthetic reinforced injected material (SRIM) shell with high shock absorption, different density ergonomic interior, comfort lining, micrometric buckle and transport bag, and optional chin guard

GPA X20 DS compact flip-up with SRIM shell and second solar screen, ergonomic interior, removable liner, air flow directed onto the visor, adjustable air intake, screen quick release system, nose protector, antiscratch screen with high protection, micrometric buckle and transport bag >>>

success is its close interest in dealers. He and his agents scrutinise shop presentation closely, particularly for higher end models. Dealers and retailers must commit seriously to the brand, and in return are given more than usual support from the manufacturer.

“I visit shops all over France with my six reps all the time to get feedback. New developments can be suggested by them, or we may come up with a new design and try and persuade the market to adopt it,” he says.

We have to acknowledge that the whole motorcycle sector is changing,” says Dupuis. “The Supersports sector is declining – the future is in the urban sector, which goes from strength to strength.

Commuters don’t have any grounding in motorcycle culture, don’t know who the race champions are, so it’s a completely different market we’re selling into now. Our motorcycle customers ride more for pleasure and utility than passion.

“We are now also in the fashion helmets business with GPA Design where our range is exclusively made from carbon and leather, and we’re maximising market share in that lucrative market. But we cover all aspects of the urban market with our brands,” he says.

GPA has concentrated on the French market but

GPA X3 DS compact flip-up with SRIM shell and second solar screen, Pinlock anti-fog system and removable liner

is now looking to expand abroad. Exports currently represent some 15% of turnover, with the main outside markets being the Netherlands and Switzerland. And exclusive distributors are being sought in all other European markets. “Up until now we have concentrated on innovation and expanding our range. We are now focusing on international expansion,” says Dupuis.

“We are increasingly seeing a transition from fullface to flip-ups in France,” says Dupuis, “and we are well-positioned to take advantage of this. We can offer excellent quality and features such as Pinlock visors at a very good price.” The fact that GPA helmets are made in Europe is also well-appreciated by customers, with the additional quality this brings, and we have our own designer and an Italian specialist design company coming up with new flipup designs for 2011.” hese were introduced along with other novelties such as jets with a double screen system at the JPMS dealer show in early February.

T

Other very successful designs are its helmets with Swarovski crystals, and the New Aero, New A-nium and Trendy models.

“We aim to sell every type and price of helmet, and all GPA and GPA Design helmets are made in Italy and Spain to very high quality standards. G.PAX models are made in China, but even there we use >>>

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

41

INDUSTRY EXTRA our own moulds, whereas many other manufacturers just go to China and buy a local design, so you see the same helmet badged under a number of brands. Our helmets are always exclusive to us,” says Dupuis.

He emphasises the importance of constant investment in new models. “It is very important in this business. We recently introduced a new full carbon helmet weighing only 800g available at a very reasonable price, and it was a real pleasure when I accompanied our sales agents into the shops all over France to see the enthusiasm with which it was received.”

PA has 1,000sq.m. of warehouse space and another 500sq.m. of offices at St Raphaël, as well as 5,000sq.m. production space at Osbe in Italy and another 5,000sq.m. production and warehouse at its Spanish associate. In France the company employs 10, with 50 others across Europe including sales agents.

Dupuis says fast deliveries are guaranteed through high stock levels, with 100% of models and graphic options available all the time.

“We have worked hard to ensure our brand image is strong, that we offer a quality product, but also that we provide excellent back-up and aftersales service. There are many old GPA helmets out there still being used, and if someone wants a visor for a 20-year old model, we can supply that. And we will often replace a broken part that is out of warranty free of charge to create good will. Returns are very few anyway, so costs to us are pretty minimal, but benefits in image terms are huge.”

Like many small to medium size motorcycle sector companies, GPA is looking closely at show expenditure. “The Lyon show is expensive, but it’s only a couple of days and we’re talking to dealers, rather than giving stickers to children, which happens at most public access shows,” says Dupuis. For us the Milan show costs E50-60,000, Paris something similar, and including others our total show expenditure could be well

G

GPA Design Tattoo (above) and Serpente (below) have a polycarbonate shell, anti-scratch mirror visor, ultra soft lining and micrometric buckle. The handcrafted leather exterior of both have exceptionally fine design details

The handcrafted GPA Jewel (below) is enhanced by 46 Xilion ‘Swarovski Element’ black faceted crystals and comes in two shell sizes

GPA’s modern office and warehouse building on the Cote d’Azur exemplifies the company’s focus on design and aesthetics

over E200,000, which for a small company like ours is a huge amount. One new helmet model costs E300,000 to develop the moulds alone, and we’d prefer to spend it on that if we think we might not get an equivalent return from a show.” upuis says GPA’s main strength is that it has all the bases covered in the growing urban market. “Our three brands provide different solutions for all likely urban customers.We have built up strong brand loyalty on the back of excellent value, practical, safe and sometimes beautiful products, supported by excellent dealer and customer support. The future will see us continue to invest heavily in new products and continue our expansion across Europe.”

D

GPA FRANCE Saint Raphaël, France Tel: +33 (0)4 94 19 13 14 E-mail: info@gpafrance.com www.gpafrance.com

GPA Flower has been specially developed for women and has a small shell for enhanced comfort and safety

42

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

INDUSTRY EXTRA

GPA X10 DS has a new double screen system, a SRIM shell, removable liner and micrometric buckle

GPA Cooper is a vintage design allied to the best of modern comfort features, with an ergonomic interior, different density liner and a small peak fixed with three metal snap-on connectors.

GPA DESIGN Pendhor (above and below) has an ultra-light carbon shell, leather and velvet liner, with luxurious details such as engraved snap button and leather goggle strap, and is presented in a delicate bag nestled within a luxury box

The GPA X9 DS top-of-the-range lightweight flipup has a tri-composite Carbon-Kevlar fibre shell and a high-comfort different density inner shell, with a second solar screen under the shell, new button and Pinlock anti-fog system

GPA stand at the JPMS dealer show in Lyon. Other than the latest helmet styles the company also displayed accessories including Bluetooth and other communication systems and goggles INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

43

TRADEZONE TRADEZONE TRADEZONE TRADEZONE TRADEZONE

Distributors of TECMATE retail chargers AUSTRALIA - A1 ACCESSORY IMPORTS T. (61) 7 3806 1800 - E. sales@a1accessory.com.au AUSTRIA - SCHUMOTO KG T. (43)(732)757080 - E. office@schumoto.at BELGIUM - BIKE DESIGN BVBA (MOTORCYCLE) T. (052) 453361 - E. info@bike-design.be CROATIA - PICCILO RACING D.O.O. T. (385)(21)325677 - E. piccilo-racing@st.t-com.hr CYPRUS - J.L. MOTORACE LTD (MOTORCYCLE) T. (357)(22)752234 - E. motorace@cytanet.com.cy CZECH REP. - MAREK BRANDT T. (420)725 790 662 - E. marek.brandt@seznam.cz DENMARK - CARL ANDERSEN MOTORCYKLER T. (45)(86) 946177 - E. hjn@ca-mc.dk ESTONIA - OÜ HELADORA LLC T. (372) 5285672 - E. rain@motopood.ee FINLAND - OY BRANDT A/B T. (358)(9)895501 - E. ulf.bjorklund@brandt.fi FRANCE - MORACO SAS T. (33)(3)85 51 45 30 - E. moraco@wanadoo.fr GERMANY - ECON WERKST.-AUSRÜSTUNGS T. (49)(2689) 928747 - E. info@econ-wa.de HERMANN HARTJE GMBH T. (49)(42) 51 811 273 - E .info@hartje.de HS-MOTORRADTEILE GMBH T. (49)(621) 105 200 - E. info@hs-motoparts.de NIEMANN+FREY GMBH T. (49)(2151)55 54 20 E. zentrale@niemann-frey.de PAASCHBURG & WUNDERLICH GMBH T. (49)(40)248 277 0 - E. info@pwonline.de “SCHÜLLER MOTORRADTEILE T. (49)(6245)994 79 10 - E. info@enuma.de GREAT BRITAIN - PROBIKE SHADOWFAX LTD T. (44)(1604)660555 - E. sales@probike.co.uk GREECE - TECNOPNEUMATIC A.E T. (30)(210)34 67 000 E. kalosakas@tecnopneumatic.gr HOLLAND - HOCOPARTS B.V. T. (31)(342) 412290 - E. pppeters@hocoparts.com HUNGARY - DOVER KFT T. (36)(1)2392202 - E. arpi@doverkft.hu ICELAND - NITRO N1, DIVISION OF BILANAUST T. (354)-535-9000 - E. agust@n1.is IRELAND - MEGABIKES T. (353)(1)44784200 - E. info@megabikes.ie ISRAEL - A.E. MOTORCYCLE T. (972)(50)271923 - E. ae_motor@netvision.net.il ITALY - SOCIETEA GENERALE RICAMBI T. (39)(051)722557 - E. DelucaR@sgr-it.com JAPAN - OKADA CORPORATION T. (81)(3)5473-0371 E. k.iwabuchi@okada-corp.com KUWAIT - TRISTAR MOTORCYCLES T. (965)2405194 - E. shams@tristarkw.com LATVIA - MOTOSPORTS LTD T. (371)-7802351 E. lauris.ermanis@motosports.lv

www.barnettclutches.com

LIECHSTENSTEIN - RÄTIKONBATTERIEN AG T. (423) 3738010 - E. mgraf@raetikonbatterien.li

USA

MOROCCO - SHENO T. (212) (0)5 22 35 97 16 - E. larichimed@sheno.ma NEW ZEALAND - NORTHERN ACCESSORIES T. (64)(9)276-6453 - E. steven@northacc.co.nz NORWAY - SPARE PARTS SERVICE AS T. (47)(64)837500 - E. jang@sps.no PHILIPPINES - STRONGHAND INC. T. (632) 373-2311 - E. open@stronghandinc.com POLAND - HART SP Z.O.O T. (48) (77) 45 66 316 E. motocykle@hartphp.com.pl PORTUGAL - JMP EQUIPAMENTOS T. (351)(232)961841 E. geral@jmpequipamentos.com

Dealers only!

RUSSIA - EXLAND LTD T. (7)(812)380-3072 - E. exlandyura@mail.ru SERBIA - MOTO-BIKE T. (99)(381)641289979 - E. motobike@ptt.rs SINGAPORE - DWA LUBRICANTS PTE LTD T. (65) 6515-6282 - E. adele@teampetronas.com SLOVAKIA - MICRONIX S.R.O. T. (421)(48) 4123779 - E. info@micronix.eu CENTRAL & SOUTH AFRICA, OCEANIA TECMATE SOUTH AFRICA T. (27)(21)5316087 - E. tecmate@netactive.co.za SPAIN - HESPERIA S.A. T. (34)(91)5088830 E. fsoria@hesperiainternacional.com SWEDEN - MOTOSPEED AB T. (46)(21)351925 - E. klarkner@motospeed.se SWITZERLAND - TECHNOPOLYMER AG T. (41)(91) 683-0333 E. robert.maier@technopolymer.ch TAIWAN - PROMO-TEC INTERNATIONAL T. (886)(2)2562-7770 E. pro.motec@msa.hinet.net TURKEY - VELOMOTO T. (90)(212)6061707 - E. info@velomoto.com.tr UAE - TRISTAR MOTORCYCLES DUBAI T. (971) 4-3330659 - E. floyd@tristaruae.com USA, CANADA, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA TECMATE NORTH AMERICA T. 905 337 2095 - E. sales@tecmate.com TecMate (International) SA BELGIUM

www.tecmate-int.com TEL: 0032 (0)16 805440 FAX: 0032 (0)16 805441

44

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

Parts Unlimited (608) 758-1111 Hap Jones (408) 432-1918 TEC Dist. (800) 356-0043 Newcomb Southeast (803) 732-5135 M.A.P. Ent. (727) 381-1151 KK Motorcycle Supply (800) 543-9638 Suncoast Cycle Ent. (727) 725-3664

Canada Parts Canada (403) 250-6611 Motovan Motorsport (450) 449-3903 Kimpex Action (519) 659-0508

Germany Grossewaechter 0049 (0)5225859256

UK P.D.Q. Motorcycle 0044 1628667644

Australia Serco 07 38232833

Netherlands Motorcycle Storehouse BV 0031 (0)50 303 9771

Sweden Roffes Motordelar 08-640 43 46

Japan Wellington Moto

France Bihr Racing 0033 389673639

TRADEZONE TRADEZONE TRADEZONE TRADEZONE TRADEZONE

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

45

ISSUE INDEX Gaerne (IT) GP1 boot............................................................................................37 Gianni Falco (IT) 2011 boot range ........................................................................32 Givi (IT) Airflow windshield ..................................................................................24 GPA France (FR) Company feature ..................................................................40-43 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 other editions either for contact details for a particular company, or for a specific item that has appeared. The INDEX appears in every edition of IDN.

Grimeca (IT) Company liquidated ............................................................................4 Held (DE) Rainstar and Arctic gloves......................................................................38 Husqvarna Motorcycles (IT) Cathcart Report - To expand into streetbike sector ......14 IVM (DE) German registrations down 10.6% in 2010............................................10

THIS MONTH’S ADVERTISERS

JF Motorsport (DE) Marushin customisable DJ Concept..........................................34 K-MAXX Moving Technology (DE) Fatty handlebar ................................................29

ACCEL Motorcycle Products (US) Self Learning Module ........................................13 B&G Racing (DE) Frame & fairing protectors..........................................................45 Barnett Performance Products (US) Ducati clutch components, distributor network ....9,44 Bikeson Group (DE) Parts & accessories ................................................................26 Davida UK (GB) Helmets ......................................................................................33 DC AFAM (BE) Parts & accessories ........................................................................27 DID Europe (IT) D.I.D Dirt Star rims........................................................................23 DP Brakes & Clutches (US) Brakes & clutches ..........................................................8 Fehling (DE) Parts & accessories ............................................................................45 Free Spirits (IT) Triumph street and race parts ........................................................25 Grossewaechter Racing Parts (DE) Tornado cams ..................................................44 GSG-Mototechnik (DE) Parts & accessories............................................................44 GZM Europe/Accessories Unlimited (ES) Parts & accessories, distributors ..............45 Ilmberger Carbon Parts (DE) Carbonparts & exhausts ............................................20 Industrias Galfer (ES) Parts & accessories ..............................................................11

Kappa (IT) New soft luggage ................................................................................25 Lazer Helmets International (BE) Monaco ultra-light flip-up ..................................34 LLS (IT) Racing frame and bar protectors ..............................................................20 LSL (DE) Wins 2010 industry award at Bike & Business event ................................48 MAG Europe (GB) Progressive Suspension PS 465 Series shock ............................26 Mesbo Parts (ES) Hebo signs exclusive off-road deal with WL Gore........................48 Mission Motor Company (US) Cathcart Report - Company feature ..................16-17 MIVV (IT) Exhausts for Multistrada 1200S ............................................................21 Motorcycle Industry Association (GB) UK registrations down 14% in 2010 ......10-11 New Max (IT) New colours & graphics for IDI Stripes helmet range ........................36 OJ Atmosfere Metropolitane (IT) Four season jackets and gloves............................39 Opticparts (DE) Brake levers & halogen headlights ................................................29 Oxygen (IT) CargoScooter EV electric scooter ..........................................................8 Polini Motori (IT) Speed Drive half-pulleys ............................................................24

Kibblewhite (US) Valvetrain components, distributor network ................................45

Powerbronze (GB) Style kit for Z1000....................................................................27

Küryakyn (US) Parts & accessories ..........................................................................2

Premier Helmets (IT) Dream Liner flip-up ..............................................................37

LSL Motorradtechnik (DE) Parts & accessories..........................................................5

Project (IT) Smarty demi-jet ..................................................................................32

MAG Europe (GB) CS One Urban Brawler for sportsbikes ........................................7

R&G Racing (GB) Adventure bars & Urban range for maxi scooters........................28

Motoplastic (ES) Puig screens & accessories ..........................................................28

Renthal (GB) Twinwall handlebars ........................................................................20

Mustang Motorcycle Products (US) Wide Tripper seat ............................................44

Rev’It! Sport International (NL) Everest GTX combination ......................................36

PB Germany (DE) AGM Motorcycle bags & accessories ....................................21,29

Royal Enfield (IN) In talks with diesel engine supplier ..............................................6

Renntec (GB) Moovamoto product range ..............................................................39

RTE-Group (RU) 2011 Moto Park expo ....................................................................6

Rick’s Motorsport Electrics (US) Starters, chargers & ignitions ................................48

SBF Triumph Bikes & Parts (DE) Stingray rear conversion for Street Triple ................19

Scandinavian Brake Systems (DK) SBS brake pads..................................................18

Scandinavian Brake Systems (DK) 2011 catalogue ................................................24

Spectro Oils of America (US) Premium-quality lubricants........................................22

Scorpion Sports Europe (FR) VX-17 Air helmet ......................................................38

Surflex (IT) Clutch kit for Yamaha Maxi Scooter T-Max ............................................4

Scott Sports (CH) Sommer jacket ..........................................................................34

TecMate (BE) Optimate 4 Dual Program, distributor network ..............................5,44

Shiro Helmets (ES) SH-20, SH-202 demi-jet and SH-80 Art jet helmet ....................38

World of Powersports Inc (US) OEM parts from USA..............................................44

Skidmarx (GB) Fly screen for Triumph ST 1050 ......................................................24

THIS MONTH’S EDITORIAL

Spidi Sport (IT) Carbo Winter glove........................................................................31 Spyke (IT) City GT urban leather jackets ................................................................35

Access Equip Motos France (FR) Ixon Granit textile jacket ......................................36

Surflex (IT) KTM 250 4T and 450 4T anti-hopping clutch ......................................19

Arrow Special Parts (IT) MX Competition exhaust for Honda CRF models ..............22

SW-Motech (DE) Crash Bars..................................................................................23

ANCMA (IT) Italian registrations down 24.2% in 2010..........................................11

TAITRA (TW) Motorcycle Taiwan 2011 ....................................................................4

Avon Tyres (GB) Celebrates centenary ....................................................................9

TecMate International (BE) Optimate 4 Dual Program............................................27

BS Battery International (FR) Smart charger ..........................................................28

Tecstar Electronics (GB) Acquires Autocom ..............................................................4

Bucher (CH) Motorex motorcycle coolants ............................................................26

Triumph Motorcycles (GB) Cathcart Report - Tue Mantoni quits as CEO..................16

CGMItalia (IT) 504 Thunderbolt flip-up..................................................................31

VE (UK) (GB) Company feature ........................................................................12-13

Dimensione Sport (IT) Rapidbike Evo control unit ..................................................23

Vogel Auto Medien (DE) German 2010 motorcycle market analysis..........................6

DMD Helmets (IT) Rebel MX helmet......................................................................35

Wind Trading (IT) WRP Enduro dual headlight........................................................19

Ducati Motorcycles (IT) Cathcart Report - To establish factory in Thailand ..............15

Wind Trading (IT) Wind Racewear 2011 GPE combination ....................................33

Feridax 1957 (GB) To introduce Spada to European market ....................................6

WL Gore & Associates (US) Signs exclusive off-road deal with Hebo ......................48

Fowlers Of Bristol (GB) Weise Parka jacket ............................................................31

Zandona (IT) Jointed kneeguard............................................................................37

46

INTERNATIONAL DEALER NEWS - FEBRUARY 2011

NEWS ROOM

NEWS World superbike record audience

DESK

BMW Motorrad is now the brand leader in the Netherlands, having sold 1,992 motorcycles in 2010, and was the only top-ten brand to increase sales on the previous year, in an overall market that shrank by 14.5 percent.The top three selling models were all from BMW: the R 1200 RT, R 1200 GS and the R 1200 GS Adventure.

H&H Classics, a specialist auction house in the UK, recently sold a 1929 Brough Superior for £286,000, making it the most expensive motorcycle ever sold.

The spring frame SS100, commonly known as the ‘Rolls Royce of motorcycles’ was sold to a private buyer during the auction held at the Haynes International Motor Museum.

Cross-Center International, the Swedish off-road parts and accessories specialist, celebrates 30 years in business in 2011 and is planning a number of celebratory events over the year.

Bajaj Auto, the second-largest motorcycle maker in India, has increased its shareholding in KTM from 35.67% to 38.10%.

Bajaj, which acquired an initial 14.72% stake in KTM in 2007, is sharing expertise with the Austrian company and making KTM models for the Indian market.

It is forecasting sales of more than four million units in its current financial year - up from 2.85 million in the last.

THE World Superbike series had a record audience in 2010 with 3,015 hours of championship race coverage watched by a total of 498 million viewers in 175 countries, a 33% increase in

viewers on the previous season.

Each of the 13 races on the calendar had an average of 40 million followers

and 223 hours of coverage.

In addition, the WSBK website saw some 35 million visits, a 30% increase on 2009. www.worldsbk.com

LSL wins 2010 industry award at Bike & Business trade event Every year Stephan Maderner of Bike & Business and Robin Bradley of IDN choose an innovative company that is showing the way to the motorcycle industry in Germany and beyond, and make the award at the annual B&Borganised dealer and industry event.

The 2010 award went to LSLMotorradtechnik of Krefeld in North Rhine-Westfalia, which has made a big success out of its customisation projects and parts programmes.

LSL’s innovative customising projects cover a wide range of motorcycle styles, from Café Racers, to Superbikes and classic bikes. In 2005 the company introduced the first retro-classic projects under the Clubman brand, with particular

emphasis on authenticity and rideability.

Technical products are the core business of LSL, which are all designed in Krefeld and made in its highly specialised manufacturing facilities, before being exported around the world.

On Saturday 27th November the award was presented to Jochen

Schmitz-Linkweiler, the head and creative inspiration of LSL, honouring his passion and the ability of his company to “regularly surprise us with new projects”.

The industry award carries a prize of advertising in IDN to the value of E12,000. www.lsl.eu

Hebo signs exclusive off-road deal with W.L. Gore HEBO has reached an exclusive agreement to become the only brand worldwide with a license from W.L Gore to use Gore-Tex in off-road and dual-sport collections.

The 2011 Hebo dual-sport range takes full advantage of the

including its waterproof and breathable characteristics, with four innovative top-of-therange jackets and trousers now using the technology. many technical benefits of Gore-Tex, the company says,

www.hebo.com

THE RIGHT PRODUCT - THE RIGHT FIT - THE RIGHT PRICE • Starting, Charging and Electronic Ignition components: Specifically, we offer regulator rectifiers, stators, starter motors, starter drives, solenoid switches, ignition coils, CDI boxes, brushes and brush plate kits

• Replacement pieces as well as multi-fit universal style pieces for the obscure models

RICK’S MOTORSPORT ELECTRICS 30 Owens Ct. #2 - Hampstead - NH 03841 USA Tel: (603) 329-9901 - Fax: (603) 329-9904

info@rickselectrics.com www.ricksmotorsportelectrics.com

• Specializing in Asian street bikes, ATVs, & Off Road vehicles • Quality bolt-on/ plug-in OE replacement pieces at a competitive cost

• Highest quality thermal/shock resistant material in construction • 1 year warranty on all products, excluding CDI boxes