British Dealer News February 2024 by British Dealer News

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key business information for the UK motorcycle and scooter industry

Key business information for the UK motorcycle and scooter industry • February 2024

UK NEWS

Vertu to sell Ducati in Sunderland Bikesure extends MCL sponsorship S

INTERNATIONAL NEW

TT merchandiser crashes out DfT data – nine month analysis WHOLESALE NEWS

Two new premium brands for Feridax Bike It snaps up Syntol S MANUFACTURER NEW

Triumph wins Torrens Trophy

S T E G R A T O G A R T E D A R T THE f distribution o K U e h t s e r u c retail giant se a UK dealer g in h s li b a t s West Country e y s and is alread le c y c r o t o M SWM tory page 38 s ll u F – k r o w t ne

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WE DID IT AGAIN IN 2022

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TAIWAN AGENCY Albert Yang, Pro Media Co: info@motopromedia.com; tel +886 4 7264437 PUBLISHER Colin Mayo: editorial@dealernews.co.uk British Dealer News, 10 Daddon Court, Clovelly Road Industrial Estate, Bideford EX39 3FH Copyright © Mayo Media Ltd:

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4 Running the numbers on 2023 registrations 8 Vertu to sell Ducati in Sunderland 10 Last chance for MV Agusta? 12 Honda dealer awards 14 NMC signs up to tackle potholes 16 LMT Motorcycles hits the classic fast lane 17 TT merchandise provider crashes out 18 Company insolvencies at 2009 crisis level 19 Two new premium brands for Feridax 20 Obituary – Wendy Mayo 21 MCN London Show preview 22 Triumph awarded the Torrens Trophy 23 BDN JobScene 24 International news 28 Electric news 29 Alternative power registrations analysis 30 Off-road news

Honda dealers honoured New head at Private investment Visordown builder for British bike in its golden anniversary Full year – Norton rebuilds report page 10

r ts owne rspor page 4 on aus Powe story es, Motoh the full UK at the helm of Ducati decad s – Read five on after two decades Tim Maccabee moves Full report page 12 After Gath retire David LAST WHILE STOCKS

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Expansion for Pure Moto Time for bike test regime change? Bullit rebrands bikes to Bluroc Mutt goes large with new HQ

NMDA switches on survey Sunra broadens its network

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38 the business 34 BUSINESS BEAT Violence in the workplace 36 MARKETING MATTERS When you apologise, mean it 38 TRAGO2WHEELS Bringing back SWM Motorcycles

the knowledge 52 DFT DATA Nine-month sales analysis

55 INTERNATIONAL SHARE PRICES A snapshot of global performance

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54 ON THE MONEY Market analysis by Roger Willis

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February 2024 : Issue 271

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Contents

thly | ly | mon | week

56 NEW REGISTRATION DATA MCIA and ACEM statistics 58 REGISTRATIONS ANALYSIS By Glass’s and the NMDA

40 THE BUSINESS ESSENTIALS Protecting your trade secrets 42 PRODUCTS The latest retail profit opportunities

60 USED BIKE DATA From Auto Trader and MCN 62 MARKET WATCH Market report by cap hpi

FEBRUARY 2024

Business news

Running the numbers MX701

EXPLORE

Discounting the pre-election gibberish that we’ll have to endure until Rishi Sunak surrenders to the inevitable, UK prospects are not in a happy place. Neither is the motorcycle industry. BDN financial editor Roger Willis surveys the situation 96

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downturn in the global economic climate,” the company opined. Sadly, the UK bike industry’s voice remains complacent. Commenting on annual registrations in early January, 150000

Overall PTW sales 2014-2023 120000

90000 Dec Nov Oct

60000

Sep Aug Jul Jun

30000

May Apr Mar Feb

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

Jan

2016

2015

the Suez Canal has so far dropped by 90%. According to the Shanghai Containerised Freight Index, the cost of moving a 40ft container on a series of long-haul routes has reached its highest level since the pandemic. The price from Shanghai to Rotterdam rose from $1667 on 23 December to $3577 by 5 January. Shanghai to Genoa went up from $1956 to $4178. They’ll keep on rising, as will inflating prices for the goods therein. The boss of shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk told journalists on 10 January that it could take months to reopen the crucial Red Sea route, risking a major hit to the global economy. Triumph Motorcycles, in its latest results statement, anticipated such scenarios. “The principal risk we face is a potential, and indeed expected,

2014

difficult past 12 months has seen UK powered twowheeler registrations fall by 2.5% year-on-year to 113,589 units. Pertinently, that is also 0.7% lower than the immediate post-Covid resurgence burst in 2021, which saw numbers climb by 9.3% to 114,371. Stagnation is one appropriate word. The cost of living crisis hasn’t gone away, growth in the UK economy is nonexistent and global geopolitical pressures are mounting. Conflict zones from Ukraine to the Middle East are currently beyond control. The supplychain mayhem that characterised Covid’s impact is already returning with a vengeance. Attacks on shipping in the Red Sea by Iranbacked and missile-equipped Houthi militias are debilitating European access to Far Eastern goods once again. Traffic through

MCIA chief executive Tony Campbell hailed a rosy future: “2024 will be an exciting year for the sector which will be built upon another solid performance in 2023. The scooter, motorcycle and now light three and fourwheel market will become an even more important contributor to the transport ecosystem.” Is he on the same planet? Perhaps not. ➥

PTW sales were down in 2023 compared to 2022, but the figures stack up well against the prepandemic period. Last year finished as the fifth best-selling year in the last decade

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Winners and losers

othing illustrates market stagnation had already been 9.3% in arrears. Then an progressively weakening numbers in 2023, during the past year better than absence of sufficient stock in March 2023’s until its presence disappeared in December. Honda’s performance. Maintenance new-plate booster signalled consistently The 11 months to date prior to such ignominy of its leadership was achieved by selling shrivelling numbers in the 11 months that totalled 4577 units and broadly suggested an unlucky 13 fewer bikes than in 2022. were counted last year. These amounted to an annual shortfall of more than 10%. One For most brands demonstrating degrees 3168, pointing to an approximate 40% sales veteran Royal Enfield dealer (who had better decline. An inability to source remain anonymous) told BDN that trading of success, measured recovery fresh stock from China, with the new distributive regime had become from long-term supply chain Honda Yamaha where many motorcycle a “nightmare”. issues, parts shortages and On a brighter note, Suzuki pulled its manufacturers are disrupted production in BMW afflicted by that corporate socks up splendidly in 2023, after the Covid pandemic’s country’s industrial several years of unremitting decline, thanks wake was responsible. Triumph woes, took the blame. to a batch of well-conceived new models Yamaha, KTM and Royal Enfield at very competitive price points. 2022 had Kawasaki certainly Other KTM blotted its UK been pretty dire. MCIA top-ten data was fitted this category. copybook for a extremely thin on the ground, with no-shows Besides sorting out its Kawasaki different reason, in January, February, August and October. supply chain destined for principally dispensing A reasonable guesstimate suggested barely European dealers, Yamaha with MotoGB’s highly 3000 bikes plated. Ignoring a solitary noalso prospered from ongoing experienced distribution show in February 2023, 11 months of figures dominant fleet delivery scooter services, to take dealer network last year added up to a useful 4960 units. input in the UK. Kawasaki bounced back after shambolic 2022 Japanese production, management in-house. 2022 had been a Staff on Suzuki’s Motorcycle Live stand were that had left KME struggling to meet Europe- remarkable year for the brand, growing therefore bubbling with upbeat enthusiasm. wide dealer inventory demand. In the UK, it by 28.1% to 5246 units sold. However, There’s no shame in status as a budget brand dropped out of the MCIA chart altogether MCIA top-ten chart data began to indicate in the current febrile climate. in February 2022 and only shifted a notably reduced total of 4822 bikes in that year’s Top six brands — 2023 MCIA registrations data remaining chart-recognised 11 months. A TOP BRANDS 2023 TOP BRANDS 2022 much healthier fully-clocked tally in 2023 Market Market was more than 20% up. Brand Regs. Change Share Brand Regs. Change Share British BMW Motorrad dealers probably Honda 21,390 -0.1% 18.4% Honda 21,403 +11.9% 18.4% had the best year, with sound growth of Yamaha 13,154 +11.7% 10.1% Yamaha 11,771 -9% 10.1% premium-priced products, but narrowly BMW 9435 +8.7% 7.5% Triumph 8721 +0.9% 7.5% failed to meet a Teutonic management Triumph 8889 +2.1% 7.4% BMW 8679 -3.8% 7.4% target of 10,000 annual UK sales for the first KTM 6394 +27.9% 4.6% Lexmoto 5347 -9.3% 4.6% time ever in 2023, despite Q4 assistance from early arrival of the heavily-hyped new Kawasaki 5881 +29.2%* 4.5% Royal Enfield 5246 +28.1% 4.5% R1300 GS model. TOP BRANDS 2021 TOP BRANDS 2020 Triumph wasn’t that far behind on just 546 Market Market fewer bikes and modestly positive – although Brand Regs. Change Share Brand Regs. Change Share the reality checks on cost-consciousness in its Honda 19,119 +12.6% 16.7% Honda 16,982 -19.4% 16.2% annual financial results appearing elsewhere Yamaha 12,941 +25.3% 11.3% Yamaha 10,332 -6.6% 9.9% in this issue should be noted. BMW 9019 +17.7% 7.9% Lexmoto 10,222 +54.5% 9.8% Among the also-rans with inconvenient Triumph 8642 +22.5% 7.6% BMW 7664 -17.7% 7.3% gaps in their MCIA chart data, Chinese Lexmoto 5897 -42.3% 5.2% Triumph 7052 -12.9% 6.7% flag carrier Lexmoto suffered the most severe pain. A full 12 months of figures KTM 5550 -16.2% 4.9% KTM 6626 +2.5% 6.3% LARSSON-adv3-2023-210x76.pdf 1 2023-12-22 in 2022 had reached 5347 units,08:55:34 but that All analysis is based on top-ten brand sales charts extracted from monthly MCIA press statistics, except * based on DfT 2022 figures.

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Vertu to sell Ducati in Sunderland M ackem fans of Bologna’s finest creations are in for a treat after Ducati announced a new dealership in the North East of England. Vertu Motorcycles is opening the store alongside its existing BMW showroom in Sunderland – it will be the first Ducati outlet for the Vertu group. The dealership will carry the full range of Ducati and Scrambler bikes, as well as kit, parts and accessories. It will also offer full servicing facilities together with Ducati Approved used machinery. Set to open in the early summer, Vertu Motorcycles Ducati Sunderland will be based

in Boldon Business Park, where an existing building is being rebuilt, with two single-story extensions. The firm expects to take on nine new full-time members of staff, and is recruiting now. Chris Taylor, operations director at Vertu Motors, said: “We’re very excited to be partnering with Ducati to bring the globally revered premium motorcycle brand to Sunderland for the first time. Ducati has a loyal following amongst motorcycle fans, and its community continues to grow and grow. It will be a truly exciting addition to the motorcycle community in the area, and with Ducati and BMW Motorrad on the same site, it

will provide a first-class ride-to destination. Fabrizio Cazzoli, MD of Ducati UK, said: “I’m pleased to confirm the expansion of the Ducati dealer network together with a well-established partner such as Vertu Motors. Ducati’s core pillars – style, sophistication and performance – will be perfectly represented at the new location, which, in the next few months, will be preparing to welcome Ducatisti and fans. This is a year where Ducati will keep growing in the adventure and off-road markets while confirming its leadership in the sport segments, always putting customers’ experience first.”

Classic corner shop is up for sale LONG ESTABLISHED CLASSIC BIKE DEALER Northants Classic Bikes (NCB), with a pedigree of 42 years in the business, is up for sale. Proprietor Steve Hasler, who took on the business more than 20 years ago and subsequently moved to the current corner shop premises in Wellingborough Road, Rushden, Northamptonshire, in 2007, has decided to retire. Health issues are a factor. Hasler joined the bike trade in 1974 as a 16-yearold apprentice mechanic at Bob King Motorcycles working on Japanese and British bikes. He moved on to Harry Kitchener Motorcycles, and then set up S&R

FEBRUARY 2024

Motorcycles – all in Bedfordshire. Comfortable with mixing British and Japanese classics in his bijou NCB showroom, as well as working on them, he reckons to have averaged annual sales of up to 150 machines in recent years. The business was originated by the late Ernie Merryweather, who in 1982 added classic motorcycles to his used car sales forecourt in Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire. He switched exclusively to classic bikes in 1987. For more information contact Steve Hasler on 01933 355525, mobile 07860 358210.

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Last chance for MV?

V Agusta has seen some turbulent times in recent decades, with owners coming and going and investments put in (and taken out) by partners as diverse as Malaysian car firm Proton, Harley-Davidson and MercedesAMG. The Varese outfit has continued to make gorgeous highperformance bikes throughout its various financial woes though, retaining its ‘halo’ image, amongst the consumer press and end users. For industry observers, though, the brand has been tarnished by operational issues such as a sparse dealer network, poor spares backup and a lack of national press support. If MV Agusta could come up with a back-office organisation as attractive as its bikes, many think it would be well on its way to challenging some of the bigger brands. At the end of 2022, it seemed like this might finally be on the cards. KTM parent firm Pierer Mobility announced it had taken a 25% stake in MV Agusta from the Sardarovs, the Russian family which had owned the brand since 2016 (and still owns 75%). Pierer took on responsibility for retailing, marketing and distributing the bikes – and has since announced that it plans to become MV’s majority shareholder by 2026. Big changes ahead then for Agusta – and positive ones it would seem. Pierer Mobility is one of the real success stories in European motorcycling, with its KTM brand enjoying success across a wide sector of the global market and

10 FEBRUARY 2024

enormous achievements in racing. Meanwhile, its other brands – GasGas, Husqvarna, and WP – are growing fast, and a recent deal with Chinese brand CFMoto promises to bring even more growth. The Austrian firm has clearly developed excellent global production and supply chains, some impressive marketing messages, and a solid financial base. It seems more than capable of taking the northern Italian brand, with all its problems, to another level.

between MV and Pierer’s other brands on the ground. “One important thing: when the news started spreading about Pierer, there was a perception that people could go into a KTM dealership and buy an MV Agusta or have it fixed there. That’s not so.” That differentiation is vital to the new MV offering – to be a premium jewel in the crown of the Pierer Group, as Campaci explains, making a comparison with another Italian vehicle maker. “MV Agusta is that jewel

Our customers own something exclusive, something to be proud of, that stands out Stefano Campaci,head of marketing

DEALER NETWORK BDN spoke to MV’s new head of marketing, Stefano Campaci, to get an idea of how this change will affect the brand, especially in the UK. Campaci has worked for BMW, Ducati and Triumph, so knows what’s needed to make a bike firm really tick. We first asked him about the UK dealer network – and he had some positive news. “The UK team is working hard to get 15 or 16 dealers in the UK market by March. KTM and Pierer are giving it their full support; Pierer has a lot of experience, systems, and tools to establish a network.” Pierer is also assisting with marketing, customer care and providing a full press fleet. But it seems like there will be a reasonably strong separation

brand which we need within the portfolio. And that’s why the direction is to keep it as it is, so there won’t be an MV Agusta label on a KTM platform. Agusta will be developed, designed and produced in Italy. The platforms will remain separate; the engines will always be MV Agusta engines, and the bikes will be MV Agusta bikes. For MV, the fascination and the charm that the brand has is unique. You can take as an example Ferrari: it’s part of a major holding, Stellantis, but Ferrari doesn’t share anything with anyone, and they are built and designed in Maranello.

And MV Agusta will be the same: part of a major holding that will provide the muscle in terms of systems and synergies, but keeping that unique identity and charm.” So, expect MV to stick with inline triples and fours rather than borrowing KTM’s twincylinder motors. But another part of the plan will be limited production at the revamped factory, says Campaci. “It’s important to limit production to 15,000 bikes a year. The factory has the ability to produce more than that, but 15,000 is what we’re going to give to the market. It means our customers own something exclusive, something to be proud of, that stands out. Secondly, by providing a limited number of bikes, you maintain the value of those bikes. So, if I do my job with marketing, we should reach the point where demand is higher than supply. Agusta will never be a volume-oriented brand; it will remain a premium motorcycle manufacturer.”

FACTORY INVESTMENT The factory is already seeing changes thanks to new investment, and the firm plans to remain in its historical

MV’s new head of marketing, Stefano Campaci

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then re-marking them to put them into the systems with new part numbers. New physical storage, inventory, barcodes, everything. To give you an idea, the Pierer Group had around 46,000 part numbers, but MV Agusta alone has 22,000. Our bikes are complicated, so integrating the systems is a huge job, but it should be all done by February.” A long, dull job for the Agusta and KTM workers, no doubt – but a vital one. And a sign – together with the recent move to a fouryear factory warranty – that Pierer is putting in the real hard yards needed to get MV Agusta back on track.

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location at Varese, north of Milan, in a former aircraft factory overlooking the lake. “There are already investments that have begun since I joined in May,” said Campaci. “I have seen a lot of work, and the factory is being renovated constantly. There is a lot of investment in making it more efficient and more ecofriendly on the production side. And just last week, we saw a new state-of-the-art production line open. It is still the case that bikes are hand-built because we want to maintain the hand-built nature. One of the people pushing that investment is [CEO] Timur Sardarov. His aim is to make the factory a hub for passionate people. There is also a new project about which I cannot share much, but maybe there will be a museum with a program to visit the factory.” One important behind-thescenes job has been integrating the spare parts operation with the Pierer logistics operation. “The spare parts were stored in our warehouse near the factory and had to be moved to the distribution centre in Austria. That means we were recording and

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As we went to press, MV Agusta announced four more new dealers: Macpherson Motorcycles in Plymouth, Destination Dorset in Bournemouth, Drysdale Motorcycles in Perth, and P&H in Crawley. There are more on the way. KTM UK is managing new applicants – get in touch if you’re interested. Stevie Day MV Agusta area sales service manager stevie.day@ktm.com

WHAT THE DEALERS SAY WE SPOKE TO A COUPLE OF DEALERS WHO’VE SIGNED UP FOR THE new MV Agusta deal. Here’s what they think of the new operation so far. “After almost 18 years with the MV Agusta brand, we have experienced many changes, and before Pierer Mobility stepped in, things were challenging. However, we believe that Pierer can Russell Bennett provide the stability required to maintain MV – director Agusta’s reputation as a premium motorcycle of Bennetts manufacturer and regain the confidence of Motorcycles customers and dealers. As with all brand acquisitions, I’m sure Pierer will need to find its feet with the brand. The path to success will take time, but with their brand portfolio, successful track record and the processes and support that we’re already beginning to see, I am confident MV Agusta is on track to remain the niche, premium brand it always has been, but with the addition of quality aftersales service. I am very much looking forward to the future with MV Agusta.” “MV Agusta has always been seen as a prestigious brand in the motorcycle world, with their motorcycles viewed by many as ‘the dream bike’ – myself included- which drove me to obtain the brand in my dealership. “With Pierer Mobility now having input to Chris the brand, the dealer network will strengthen by Macpherson receiving some stability, which has been lacking – director of with previous investors. I have confidence in Macpherson Pierer Mobility’s ability, to the extent that this is Motorcycles the deciding factor in becoming an MV Agusta dealer. We are investing in the brand by opening a new lifestyle-focused dealership in Plymouth, with the aim of supporting our local community of riders, motorcycle enthusiasts and like minded individuals by creating a social environment that welcomes all, whether people are looking for their dream motorcycle, having their current bike serviced or if they simply want to admire motorcycle art over a coffee or a bite to eat.”

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SHORT CUTS GIVI TURNS 45

MANY HAPPY RETURNS TO ITALIAN luggage and accessories specialist Givi, set up in 1978 by motorcycle racer Giuseppe Visenzi. The firm celebrated 45 years in business at the EICMA and Motorcycle Live shows by launching a special white edition of its Maxia 5 top box, and of course there was cake! info@givi.co.uk; www.givi.co.uk

Honda dishes out the gongs H

BRISTOL CLASSIC RETURNS

SOUTH WEST CLASSIC BIKE FANS CAN CHEER UP a grim February weekend with a visit to the Bristol Classic Motorcycle show at Shepton Mallet. Running across the weekend of 24-25 Feb at The Royal Bath and West Showground, the show will feature the usual array of traders, autojumble stands and bike displays, as well as a classic bike auction with local auction house Dore & Rees and guest stars including James Whitham and Steve Plater. Discounted tickets are on sale now at £15 for each day, or will be available on the gate at £18. Parking is free, as are youngsters aged 16 and under. More information: www.bristolclassicbikeshow.com

20 YEARS OF GLOBE BUSTING

ANOTHER ANNIVERSARY, THIS TIME IT’S 20 years for UK adventure touring organisers GlobeBusters. The firm marked the event with a memorable adventure, trekking from Alaska to Argentina with 17 customer riders and two pillions. The 22,000-mile trip took five months and went through 14 countries. www.globebusters.com

TRAINING SCHOOLS ADD RESEARCH

RIDER TRAINING SCHOOLS FROM ACROSS THE EU are teaming up with university research departments to improve safety through better tuition. 36 schools, all of which have European Motorcycle Training Quality Label approval, are working alongside the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, the Würzburg Institute for Traffic Sciences, the Institute for Motorcycle Safety, and Traffic Accident Research at TU Dresden. The group will use accident analysis to train experts to develop cognitive and riding skills necessary to avoid accident scenarios. Jesper Christensen of the FIM said, “Modern schools offering advanced safety training are embracing a stronger approach towards cognitive skills and the understanding that accidents involving riders may start well before the crash occurs. The development of a highquality training concept using a solid academic approach based on real-world data is warmly welcomed.” The research will be offered free of charge to all training schools interested in improving the quality of their post-licence courses. motorcycle-training-label.eu.

FEBRUARY 2024

onda UK held its annual dealer conference just before Christmas, and took the opportunity to present a slew of awards to high-achieving and long-serving retailers across its network. Plus there were also some special awards, including one for a UK tech who took part in the firm’s Global Motorcycle Technician Contest in Japan. Three dealers collected 45-year long service awards: Grafton Motorcycles, Colwyn Bay Motorcycles and Firstline Motorcycles, all joining Honda back in 1978. There were also three 20-year awards, two 15year and four tenth-anniversary celebrations, with Honda UK’s head of motorcycles, Neil Fletcher, handing over the gongs. Fletcher was joined by a very special guest for the awards – no less than Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut. Ms Sharman

congratulated specialist dealer of the year winners, including GT Motorcycles (accessories), North West Honda (Datatool dealer of the year), Doble Honda (supersport), and Miles Kingport (financial services and overall dealer of the year). Fletcher and Sharman also gave a special recognition award to Josh Webster of Craigs Honda, who took part in the Japanese firm’s Global Motorcycle Technician Contest in Tokyo in October 2023. Webster had to answer 50 questions in a paper-based test before performing a series of five timed off-bike practical tests, a 60-minute diagnostic and a 30-minute repair task. All the tests took place on a Super Cub 110 commuter and a CB650R, and there were just 23 finalists from all around the world. Webster, who’s been a Honda tech for seven years, was up against long-serving

Honda expert technicians from countries including Germany, Japan, Taiwan, Brazil and the Netherlands. Last year was the first time for the competition, which will now take place every four years. Honda UK is to set up a national contest, with the finalist going to Europe for a continent-wide contest, and then Japan will host the global finals.

Craig Honda’s Josh Webster was given a Special Award for taking part in the Global Technician Contest in Japan

ALL THE WINNERS Celebrating 45 Years with Honda Grafton Motorcycles, Colwyn Bay Motorcycles, Firstline Motorcycles Ltd Celebrating 20 Years with Honda Lloyd Motors, North Harbour Motorcycles, Belle Vue Motors Celebrating 15 Years with Honda Isle of Man Honda, GT Motorcycles, Celebrating 10 Years with Honda Wheels Honda, Craigs Honda, Blade Motorcycles Swindon, Maidstone Honda

Datatool Dealer of the Year Accessories Dealer of the Year New Rider Dealer of the Year Aftersales Dealer of the Year HCSI Sales Dealer of the Year HCSI SuperSport Retail Dealer of the Year Honda Financial Services K2K Award Special Recognition Award Dealer of the Year

North West Honda GT Motorcycles Honda of Bournemouth Wheels Honda Miles Kingsport Doble Honda Miles Kingsport Josh Webster – Craigs Honda Miles Kingsport

Bike It takes on Syntol MAJOR PARTS DISTRIBUTOR Bike It, has signed a deal to supply lubricants from British firm Syntol. Set up as an independent manufacturer in 2019, Syntol has a background of supplying race teams with a range of engine oils and other lubricants. Syntol has now expanded into the consumer sector, launching a range of oils with three levels

of performance: fully-synthetic Nero-R race oil, Corse highperformance synthetic oil, and Strada semi-synthetic oil. Bike It promise various introductory trade deals in a range of volumes, from 1 litre to 200 litres. Stuart Milne 07879 620734 stuart.milne@bikeit.co.uk

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NMC signs up to tackle potholes

otorcycling political lobby group, The National Motorcyclists Council (NMC), has joined a national partnership to tackle the pothole epidemic. Led by the AA, the Pothole Partnership also includes: British Cycling, IAM RoadSmart, the British Motorcyclists Federation and plant manufacturer JCB. The partnership has been formed to press the case for more effective and permanent road repairs after new research showed that the AA dealt with 631,852 pothole-related incidents in 2023, the highest for five years. Last year, pothole damage to vehicles cost a staggering £474,000,000, according to the AA. The newly formed Pothole Partnership has unveiled a fivepoint plan to help tackle the issue, which it has sent out to central and local government. Craig Carey-Clinch, executive

director at the NMC, said: “The situation is becoming ever more acute for motorcyclists, and is a top-ranking concern among riders. Potholes and other road surface-related defects are already shown to be extremely dangerous for motorcycle riders. The same pothole that damages a car could prove fatal to a rider. The pothole hazard is heightened if potholes fill with water in poor weather or are encountered at night. Action is needed now to clear the backlog of repairs urgently. The NMC fully supports the Pothole Partnership and urges the government to front-load the £8.3bn that it’s allocated. The problem is now, not in seven- or nine-years’ time.”

POTHOLE FIVE-POINT PLAN 1. Permanent: Local authorities to limit the practice of temporary pothole repairs or patches and, where possible,

every pothole or patch will be repaired permanently 2. Precise: All local authorities/ contractors are to adhere to UK-wide repair and inspection standards and report annually on the repairs undertaken 3. Price: The government to demonstrate greater urgency by accelerating and increasing spending of the £8.3bn pothole funding for England in the first three years – with total clarity on the distribution to local authorities 4. Provision: Central and local government to guarantee ringfencing of all road maintenance funding to help deliver innovations that enable permanent repairs 5. Progress: Full transparency from local authorities on their road repair backlog, categorised by potholes, patching works and road resurfacing

NMC GEARING UP FOR THE GENERAL ELECTION THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLISTS COUNCIL (NMC), is looking ahead to what is almost certainly a general election year (28 January 2025 is the last possible legal date for an election). According to the group, a series of successful events in 2023 has put it in a good position to help secure the future of UK biking, regardless of the colour of the next government. The Council points to a number of areas of progress, including a new approach for making motorcycling safer via new roads infrastructure guidelines. A partnership working on green roads riding resulted in DEFRA dropping proposals under its Landscapes Review to further legislate against motorcycle riding on rights of way. A further partnership forged across public and private sector organisations, put pressure on the government to finally implement changes to Compulsory Basic Training. On licensing, training and testing, the NMC’s proposals in 2022 led to the formation of a government-led discussion group. NMC executive director Craig Carey-Clinch, said:

“2023 was a hugely positive year in many ways – I can’t recall a year where there have been so many ministerial meetings and other positive actions with government. But there are still a lot of areas where the government needs to do more to provide certainty and create positive change for motorcycling – engagement is very welcome, but it’s action that we need. In addition to continuing to build the lobby, the NMC has also focussed on developing and building new partnerships so that the overall lobby can gain more impact. No single organisation ‘owns’ the motorcycle lobby, and it’s only through combining individual strengths through partnerships and common approaches to government on shared interests that we will create a more positive future for motorcycling. “2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year; several activities are planned, campaigns will be strengthened, and the riders’ voices will continue to be heard. But the general election overshadows all of this, and the NMC is looking forward to launching its election campaign.”

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LMT hits the classic fast lane

he UK’s youngest classic bike dealer, Louis Taylor (24) of LMT Motorcycles, Little Addington, Northamptonshire, heads into 2024 trading from bigger twostorey premises and with a stock of 150-plus bikes ranging from the 1920s to modern, motocross, trials, road race and custom. “The new premises is a proper showroom with new flooring and state-of-the-art lighting, which makes the bikes look very good,” says Taylor. “We moved in August, refurbished the interior in two weeks and started trading in September 2023. “Thanks to the new showroom, we now have a lot more footfall and sales have increased massively. We have been averaging 48 sales a month. In the first week of December, we sold 20 bikes. “The showroom has a mezzanine. We use a forklift to get the bikes up there. It’s

Two storeys of two-wheel classics, plus a handful on four wheels. A forklift is used to get bikes up to the mezzanine

all much bigger than our previous premises next door, some of which we have retained as a workshop area. “The new showroom is already full. Next week, I’m looking at buying a collection of 30 bikes. I don’t know where I’ll put them if I buy them, but I’ll worry about that if a deal is done. “The general drop in values has stimulated sales because people think they are getting a bargain. “While classic Triumph values have dropped, BSAs are going through the roof, and Ariel sales have picked up. Little Triumphs are selling well, but the bigger models, such as the threecylinder Meriden Tridents, are now too heavy for most of the older British bike enthusiasts. “My stock is approximately 30-40% British at the moment. But I have something for everyone, including a 2018 Norton 961 trike, number 33

Stock includes classics from Britain, America, Germany, Italy, Japan and Spain. Road racers include three Yamaha 350 twins

out of a limited edition of 50 Commando solos. Built to an extremely high standard, it has only 211 miles on the clock, and has all the parts to turn it back into a solo.” Taylor buys stock privately, online and from auctions. But he doesn’t attend auctions. He’s too busy running his retail premises seven days a week, backed up by a mechanic and van driver. Looking ahead, he says: “Because the showroom is now full, I started the new year being very picky about which bikes to buy in. I am already moving upmarket and may put some of my lower-value stock up for auction to make room for more expensive machines. Among higher value bikes already in stock are two 1920s Harley-Davidson V-twins, one with a sidecar, on sale at £28,995. “We are expecting a visit from Henry Cole and his crew for one of his TV programmes. That’s pencilled in for this month.” Taylor started trading in classics aged 20 and has been making a big impression. Now running in the classic bike fast lane, he refers to his colourful inventory as a sweetshop for classic fans who wish to indulge their individual tastes. LMT Motorcycles 07776 857044; 01536 216420 imtmotorcycles@aol.com

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MOTOR CYCLE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (MCIA) CEO TONY CAMPBELL, pressed home the role of scooters and motorcycles as part of a green transport plan when he spoke at the launch of Honda Europe’s 2023 Environmental Report. Campbell addressed a packed audience of politicians, stakeholders and industry figures, setting out the key role mopeds and motorcycles have to play as part of a decarbonised and integrated transport network. He underscored the numerous environmental and mobility benefits of PLVs, including greater energy efficiency and better use of road space and reducing congestion. Following the launch, Campbell said: “It’s clear our sector can play a key role in supporting the government in its net-zero ambitions. I commend Honda for responding to the challenges posed by the race to carbon neutrality with innovation and cutting-edge technology. Honda is demonstrating that the industry will work with the government; now, the government must step up its support for the sector. Local authorities must be encouraged to consider PLVs as a transport solution to tackle diverse mobility challenges for people, goods, and businesses. To ensure our local transport networks are dynamic and robust, motorcycles and other PLVs must be considered alongside active travel and public transport. Our sector can be part of an integrated transport solution, providing affordable, independent mobility when single-occupancy car or van use is unnecessary, or in places where public transport is insufficient and active travel is impractical.”

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TT merchandise provider crashes out ISLE OF MAN TT FANS MAY FACE a souvenir T-shirt and paddock jacket famine in 2024, after the event’s merchandise supplier collapsed into administration. Originally, a company called Cube Partnership was awarded the TT merchandise contract in January 2023 by the Isle of Man government’s Department for Enterprise (DfE) after a tender process, replacing a long-term local enterprise that had chosen to cease trading. Cube’s pedigree included previously supplying official merchandise to the Rugby League World Cup and World Athletics, as well as the Aston Martin and Williams Formula One teams. However, Cube Partnership went into voluntary liquidation in July 2023, with the TT contract transferring to its parent company Worcester-based Cube International Group. It subsequently transpired that Cube International wasn’t too healthy either, with unpaid debts to the Manx DfE of more than £160,000 – presumably a share of revenue from merchandise sales

– plus further amounts totalling £65,000 owed to various on-Island companies for service provision. Failure to pay any of this money eventually led to the DfE terminating Cube International’s relationship with immediate effect in October 2023, on the basis of “breach in terms to fulfil required financial obligations within the contracted timeline”. Then in December, Cube International Group announced that it had gone into administration. According to insolvency practitioner Leonard Curtis, all Cube staff had been made redundant prior to its appointment as administrator. A structured sales process was initiated, to identify parties interested in acquiring the group or the business and assets. A statement from Leonard Curtis went on to say: “While considerable interest was generated, unfortunately a sale has not been possible. The administrators are now focused on realisation of assets.” No doubt creditors shouldn’t hold their breath.

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Insolvencies at 2009 crisis level

t shouldn’t come as a surprise, given the state of the UK’s economy, that company insolvencies are rising. Data published by the Insolvency Service at the end of October 2023 noted that insolvencies in England and Wales in the second and third quarters of 2023, were at their highest since the global financial crisis of 2009. In numbers, of the 6208 registered company insolvencies between 1 July and 30 September 2023, 4965 were creditors’ voluntary liquidations, 735 compulsory liquidations (CVL), 466 administrations, 41 company voluntary arrangements (CVA), and one was a receivership appointment. For the year-to-date, 4276 of the failures were in construction, 3777 were in wholesale and retail, including motor vehicles and motorcycles, 3477 were in accommodation and food service activities, 2282 were in administrative and support service activities, and ‘just’ 1911 were in manufacturing. Insolvency is a devolved matter in Scotland with the Accountant in Bankruptcy handling matters there. Regardless, there were 296 company insolvencies, 7% up on the same quarter of 2022, made up of 107 compulsory liquidations, 174 CVLs and 15 administrations.

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland saw 62 company insolvencies in Q3 2023, a 24% increase from the same quarter of 2022. There were 30 compulsory liquidations, 23 CVLs, eight CVAs and one administration. The reasons for the increases should be obvious but are worth outlining regardless. Summed up well by Mark Ford, a partner in restructuring and recovery services at Evelyn Partners, he said: “Company insolvencies have soared … against a grim backdrop of continuing cost increases, a harsh and uncertain macroeconomic environment and continuing friction in supply chains and trading conditions.” Fundamentally, firms in consumer-led sectors – such as accommodation, food, wholesale and retail trade – have been hit by a triple whammy of weak demand, high energy costs and wages bills. On top of that, sterling is not at its strongest, making imports more expensive. A year ago, post-Truss, one pound bought $1.13. A change of prime minister and over the following months sterling rose to buy, at an August peak, $1.31. Now it’s sitting at around $1.22. And that drop is as a result of Forex traders seeing fewer, or no further, interest rate rises and better deals to be had with currencies elsewhere. That may be good for those with borrowing, but it hurts

the cost of imports – including energy – and isn’t doing much for sales. Indeed, separate data from the Office for National Statistics revealed that September’s retail sales were down 2.5% compared with February 2020 as a result of high inflation and borrowing costs. Some firms reckon that certain sectors – especially those mentioned earlier – are vulnerable to rising debt and were hoping for a good Christmas, which would be make or break for them. However, the cost of borrowing and a lack of access to working capital alongside weak consumer confidence and high inflation, means that insolvency practitioners are likely to see an upward trend in business over the next 12 months. A corollary of this is the impact on zombie companies – firms that just about service their debt but neither grow nor pay their indebtedness off. For them, the writing is on the wall. And this means two things – they’ll fail, impacting creditors, and subsequently leaving more money to flow into investment and trade to those firms in better health. None of this is a shock. But the worrying part is that any rise in insolvencies – irrespective of the business sector – tends to lead to a reduction in jobs potentially damaging output growth.

MCIA talks licensing with the DfT

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ANY POLITICAL WORK AT THIS STAGE IN THE government’s life-cycle is always going to be tough. However, the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) is pressing on regardless and held a meeting with officials from the Department for Transport in December to discuss changes to rider licensing. MCIA CEO Tony Campbell, director of safety and training Karen Cole, and public affairs manager Sean Waters represented the MCIA at a round table meeting with DfT officials to discuss changes to Compulsory Basic Training, as well as the need for a full-scale

licensing review. According to the MCIA, there was broad consensus across all meeting attendees (which included rider groups and Transport for London) that the DfT should implement the DVSA’s CBT proposals for CBT published in 2017. The MCIA also presented its proposals for ‘A Licence to Net Zero’ and made the case for a simplified, less costly licensing regime that removes duplication and encourages progressive access. The DfT is also organising a licensing ministerial meeting with roads and local transport minister Guy Opperman to take place early this year.

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FERIDAX HAS ADDED TWO MORE PREMIUM BRANDS TO ITS portfolio. Renowned 240-year-old security firm Squire Locks has signed an exclusive deal with Feridax to distribute its motorcycle security range in the UK and Ireland. John Squire, CEO of Squire Locks, said, “We are excited to work alongside Stuart Swaby and the entire team at Feridax as we start this new partnership. The Squire Moto Lock range offers premium security for all motorcyclists and is a testament towards our dedication to creating toughness-guaranteed products for consumer peace of mind. We look forward to a long and successful future.” Meanwhile, the much younger Beeline Moto brand has also signed a deal to extend the retail coverage of its innovative bike-specific GPS navigation products. Beeline Moto offers an easy-to-use navigation device that provides riders with clear directions, allowing them to maintain focus on the road. It features worldwide mapping, an elegant design that seamlessly integrates on to a motorcycle, more than 30 hours of battery life, and a compass mode. Feridax sales director Stuart Swaby said, “This collaboration marks another milestone in Feridax’s journey as one of the UK’s leading motorcycle clothing and accessory suppliers. With Beeline Moto’s intuitive technology and the support of our dedicated team, we’re excited to offer this unique navigation solution to riders across the UK and Ireland.” Both Squire Locks and Beeline Moto accounts will be serviced by Feridax’s experienced team of account managers and product specialists, providing comprehensive support. An efficient online ordering system will also provide dealers with an intuitive direct ordering system that includes real-time stock information. More information at www.feridax.com.

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DF Capital partners with the 2024 Trade Directory

o be distributed with the May issue of British Dealer News, and listing more than 650 suppliers, distributors and service providers in a dealerfriendly, easy-look-up layout, preparations for the BDN Trade Directory are well underway. For 2024, the Directory welcomes on-board DF Capital as its primary sponsor. Angela Goulding, managing director for powersports at DF Capital, says: “We are delighted to sponsor the 2024 British Dealer News Trade Directory. It’s a vital publication containing information on all the best suppliers in the industry – crucial for the outlook of the sector. “At DF Capital, we strive to be different. We are a specialist bank committed to building a brighter future for everyone around us, including putting our customers’ needs first and providing exceptional service levels. “With our dedicated account management team, we work in partnership with motorcycle businesses to ensure they have the funding where it’s needed when it’s needed. “We work with 89 manufacturer partners and 1182 dealer

customers, with total credit lines in 2023 exceeding £1bn. Our finance solutions help dealers fund stock and showroom vehicles, helping to free up working capital and to protect cash flow. Hopefully, this helps dealers focus on meeting customers’ needs, resulting in sales growth and improved profitability. “We aim to be a trusted partner with our customers – providing guidance, knowledge and expertise when it comes to funding requirements, supporting dealers throughout the whole process.” It’s easy for suppliers to add more prominence to their 2024 Directory entry by adding full contact details and logos or by running a full company profile feature. There are also new sizes and positions of advertising space available for 2024. The supplement will be available in May, in both print and digital formats, and will also be hosted on www.britishdealernews. co.uk for dealers to reference all year round. British Dealer News 01237 422660 adsales@dealernews.co.uk

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OBITUARY

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fter a long battle with illhealth, Wendy Mayo died at home on 18 December. She was 80 years old. Wendy, the wife of BDN publisher Colin Mayo, will be remembered with affection by many dealers and exhibitors as a friendly welcoming face at Motorcycle Trade Expo, where she managed the show’s busy reception desk for more than 20 years. Wendy commenced her career at London magazine publishers Iliffe and Sons. Later acquired by the Mirror Group, Iliffe published more than 80 consumer and specialist magazines, including marketleading The Motor Cycle (The Blue’un, as it was widely known.) She worked in the trade magazine subscription department managing numerous trade titles, including Motor Cycle and Cycle Trader, where Colin was assistant editor. They married in 1962, and when Colin left Iliffe to work for the National Association of Cycle and Motorcycle Traders to launch Two Wheeler Dealer (TWD), Wendy played a key part in building a national database of cycle and motorcycle businesses. Replacing the association’s member-only magazine, TWD was mailed free to more than 6200 dealers. When TWD was acquired by EMAP (now Bauer) to run alongside then fledgling weekly tabloid Motor Cycle News, Colin joined EMAP, and Wendy retrained as a district nurse. Later, as the overlap between retailing bicycles and motorcycles came to an end, TWD was re-titled Motor Cycle Dealer and eventually sold. When Larry Riches (Lintek) and Colin launched Motorcycle Trade Expo in 1996, Wendy ran

had to be organised to tie-in with staff names, job titles and their main business activity and then processed, printed and mailed. Wendy also led the show’s Click and Collect service, where businesses that had left it late (there were many) could collect their tickets on arrival at the show. Despite failing health in her later years, Wendy never missed an Expo show, where she managed the reception desk and where many dealers and exhibitors will remember her for her welcoming smile and good humour.

Nieman confirmed as AutoProtect CEO TOP AUTOMOTIVE PROTECTION firm AutoProtect, has announced that its interim CEO, Graeme Nieman, has assumed the position on a permanent basis. Nieman joined AutoProtect Group as interim CEO in May 2022 from Correlation Risk Partners, AutoProtect’s sole shareholder.

DEALER PACK 20 FEBRUARY 2024

the trade-only reception desks at venues in London, Donington Park, Birmingham’s NEC and the NAC at Stoneleigh Park. A prodigious memory for dealers’ names and her database skills were challenged yet again when Roger Willis and Colin acquired British Dealer News in early 2001. Rigorous Audit Bureau of Circulation checks on BDN’s circulation and Expo’s attendance figures meant both databases had to be accurate to the nth degree, and thanks to Wendy’s meticulous administration there was never a problem with ABC’s annual audits. It was no easy task. In those days, the majority of the show ticket applications and magazine subscriptions arrived by post or fax. In the weeks leading up to the show doors opening, Wendy would receive thousands of applications from dealers all over the UK and beyond. All the business names

Nieman had also been an influential member of AutoProtect’s wider operational and group boards for several years. “We are excited to embark on this new chapter with Graeme at the helm,” said Alex Lugt, MD at Correlation Risk Partners, “His

vision and leadership are exactly what AutoProtect Group needs as we continue to grow in what we know to be a dynamic market.”

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Capital affair THE HAMSTER-WHEEL OF THE motorbike season spins another squeaky cycle this month with the 2024 Devitt Insurance MCN London Motorcycle Show. Kicking off on the weekend of 16-18 Feb at the London ExCel exhibition centre in Docklands, the show is the biggest regional event for the trade, second only to Motorcycle Live at the NEC in terms of scale. Organisers say there has been an “exciting overhaul” to the show plan this year, with a new liveaction off-roading event, three new stages and plenty of race stars and celebrities in attendance. The show’s mainstay will undoubtedly be new 2024 models, with punters flocking in to check out fresh machinery from the big brands. Confirmed manufacturer exhibitors as we went to press include BMW, Yamaha, Suzuki, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki and Kymco – with Honda an obvious name missing from the line-up. The show organisers are also promising an extensive retail zone, for bargain-hunting punters. The live events will again be a strong attraction. This year’s big competition is an Extreme Enduro race, with off-road riders going head-to-head over an obstacle course. We’re imagining a wild

variant of Junior Kick Start, with super-competitive off-road racers instead of earnest kids – sounds interesting. The three live stages will be slightly more peaceful: Charley Boorman’s Adventure Base Camp, Henry Cole’s Ready to Ride Workshop and the MCN World of Bikes. They will do what they say on the tin: Charley Boorman’s stage centres on globe-trotting adventure riding, speaking to experts on trip planning, preparation and how to cope on the road. Henry Cole will be live-restoring bikes with his chums Allen Millyard and Guy Willison and demonstrating live hands-on demos on bike repair and maintenance tasks. Finally, the MCN stage will be hosting chats with legends such as TT racers John McGuinness and Peter Hickman, with Jamie Whitham hosting the conversation. There will also be a special tribute to racing team boss Paul Bird, who did so much for the sport in the UK and who sadly died last year. Tickets for the show are on sale online in advance, with half-price car parking (though driving in London is not to be recommended). Children under four are free, and the show offers free bike parking. www.mcnmotorcycleshow.com

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Early season deals from Kawasaki

awasaki is looking to kick off early this year with a range of finance options across its range, covering bikes from the Ninja 125 up to the Ninja H2 SX supercharged supersports-tourer. All 2023 model machines under 650cc are available with 4.9% HP or 5.9% PCP deals, organised through the official Kawasaki K-Options finance packages. Fans of bigger-capacity bikes are also catered for. There’s £1000 off the price of a 2023 Ninja ZX-10R, Ninja 1000SX or Versys 1000 when purchased on a 9.9% PCP deal with K-Options. All deals are available until 31 March at official Kawasaki UK dealers. The new year also sees Kawasaki introduce a title sponsorship deal with Tracker, which will support the 2024 British Superteen championship, featuring the new ZX-4RR Ninja. Silkolene, Reactive Parts, Samco, GB Racing, Spark IT exhausts, and K-Tech suspension are also official partners in the new BSB support series.

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Business news

CONTROL CABLES

Nick Bloor (left), CEO Triumph Motorcycles, being presented with the Torrens Trophy by Ben Cussons, chairman of the RAC

Torrens Trophy for Triumph

•

Stainless Steel Cable

•

Polyimide Lining

•

Freeze & Seize Resistant Compound

wmd-online.com 01273 22 FEBRUARY 2024 595746

he Royal Automobile Club’s annual award dinner, held at Pall Mall in London, sees the great and the good from the twowheeled world gather for the RAC to present its most prestigious motorcycling award – the Torrens Trophy. The Torrens is awarded to a British individual or organisation that has made an outstanding contribution to the cause of safe and skilful motorcycling, made an exceptional contribution of technical excellence to motorcycling or shown outstanding skill in international motorcycle sport. The trophy was first awarded in 1978 in memory of Arthur Bourne, a vice-chairman of the Royal Automobile Club and motorbike journalist who wrote his column under the name Torrens. This year’s trophy was awarded to Triumph Motorcycles, which snatched the gong for its successful Moto2 engine supply contract. Triumph’s 765 Street Triple engine took over from Honda’s CBR600RR as the Moto2 control powerplant in 2019, with Hinckley supplying race-prepared motors to all competitors in the MotoGP support series. The project has been remarkably successful, with little in the way of technical issues or problems over five seasons, and is set to continue till 2029. “It’s an absolute privilege to receive such an award, for everyone at Triumph,” said Triumph CEO Nick Bloor. “I’m really proud to have the key team together here tonight who have contributed over the years and made it all a success.”

Bikesure signs for two more years with Live INSURANCE BROKER BIKESURE, HAS INKED A DEAL AS THE TITLE sponsor for the Motorcycle Live show at the NEC in Birmingham for another two years. The partnership has now been running for five years, and the extension takes the relationship through to 2026. Grant Varnham, business development manager at Bikesure, said: “Motorcycle Live offers Bikesure a unique platform to reach the most seasoned of riders across a multitude of genres, as well as budding enthusiasts. Speaking to visitors at the show gives us a great opportunity to interact with customers and assist with their insurance-related queries.” Finlay McAllan, MD of Motorcycle Live, added, “We’ve been working closely with Bikesure since 2019. Our partnership goes beyond the simple inclusion of a logo, as they share our strong commitment to creating an interactive and fun-filled show.” Motorcycle Live 2024 runs at the NEC from 16-24 November. www.motorcyclelive.co.uk

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34 !$$!& 4-'40'+#4 $ 1! $24!&4'+ +4-'4 &,.+ 4- + -4 ! / % &-4 & 4 '%% + ! $4 The Ideal Candidate 4' 4- • 4 + 4 Self-motivated, possess excellent communication, negotiation and organisational skills 34 ',, ,,4 4,-+'& 4)',!-!/ 4 --!-. 4 We are looking for a skilled and experienced Mechanic to maintain

We specialise in the preparation of motorcycles to be used in enduro +'0Rally-Raid and Adventure travel.

• Always maintain a high level of professionalism.

and repair enduro and adventure bikes, ensuring functionality and • Willing to work flexibly in order to ensure target achievement and reliability of machines, engines, suspension and mechanical systems. !$,-4)+ /!'.,4!& .,-+24 1) +! & 40'.$ 4 +- !&$24 4 &4 / &- 4 4!-4!,4&'-4 commercial growth of the area We are also looking for someone that’s able to custom build and • Possess a strong positive attitude ,, &-! $ 4 prepare bikes for overseas Rally events. You will be asked to travel to events and work in a high pressure environment. Whilst previous industry experience would certainly be an advantage -

it is not essential! Applicants must send their CV and covering letter to &4 !-!'&4-'4 4.&!*. 4'))'+-.&!-24-'4+ )+ , &-4)+ %! +4 + & , 4!,4+'$ 4 '% , Martin Wittering info@torqueracing.net Benefits - Just to mention a few 0!- 4 &4 1 $$ &-4+ %.& + -!'&4) # 4 % 4.)4' 4 4 1 4 ,! 4 +',,4, $ +24 • Excellent remuneration package (gross salary) commissions -' - +40!-• Uncapped 4 .& )) 4 '%%!,,!'&, 4-' +40!- 4 4*. $!-24 '%) &24/ !

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RETAIL DEALER OFFER

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applicants # will be # # # # # # # treated in the strictest of confidence and are to be # # # All #! # # # emailed to beth.derosa@motorgear.co.uk "# # # ! # "# "# #Contact Alison on 01237 422660 or adsales@dealernews.co.uk Previous applicants need not apply

MOTORCYCLE TECHNICIAN/MOT TESTER Daytona Motorcycles are a well-established, respected Kawasaki and Suzuki Motorcycle Dealership based in Ruislip Manor, Northwest London. We are actively looking for an experienced Motorcycle Technician/MOT Tester to join our dedicated workshop team. The successful candidate must have experience of modern motorcycle technology and be able to demonstrate an understanding of current diagnostic equipment. The role will be responsible for servicing and repairing predominantly Kawasaki and Suzuki motorcycles, preparing new and used motorcycles in readiness for selling as well as fitting tried and tested accessories and aftermarket components in line with a customer’s order. Full Manufacturer training will be provided over time as and when necessary. Importantly you should be able to work independently as well as part of the team, with a keenness to learn. A competitive salary and benefits package will be awarded to the successful applicant which will reflect both qualifications and experience. If you feel that you have the skills, the experience and the drive to carry our this role, please forward your CV with a covering letter to; Dealer Principle, HGB Motorcycles (Ruislip) Ltd, 69-71 Park Way, Ruislip Manor, Middx HA4 8NS or email to brigid@hgbmotorcycles.co.uk

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FEBRUARY 2024 23

International news

International news With financial editor Roger Willis

Pierer sharpens strategy A

fter admitting to a profitability collapse for its substantial pedalbicycle business in 2023 half-year results published at the end of last August, Pierer Mobility has abruptly exited pedalpusher territory. Announcing an aggressive focus on core premium powered two-wheeler brands KTM, Husqvarna, GasGas and MV Agusta instead, from the 2024 financial year advent, Pierer’s board of directors has now realigned the group’s product segments into “motorcycles” and “e-mobility”. The latter will feature an expanded range of more heavily promoted e-bicycles from the Husqvarna and GasGas brands. In addition, the segment will include all electric PTWs produced by Pierer – e-motorcycles, e-minis and stand-up e-scooters. The demise of Pierer’s pedal-bicycle interests came from an excess of post-Covid inventory among bicycle dealers across Europe, leading to a rash of discounting. Divestment of the bicycle division has already seen the R Raymon brand sold back to its founders Susanne and Felix Puello. Disposal of the Felt brand to a consortium fronted by Pierer ex-director

Florian Burguet should be completed in the first half of 2024. The Pierer board has also made moves to tackle the impact of what it describes as “unfavourable economic conditions” in Europe for the motorcycle business, due to significantly

In order to secure group profitability, management will implement costcutting measures in the double-digit million euro range higher interest rates pushing up the cost of dealer inventories. Dealers will benefit from extended payment terms and higher discounts. And with sufficient liquidity reserves available, Pierer has promised support for suppliers too, to cushion their increased financial burdens associated to rising interest rates. But these interventions will lead to a

significant reduction in total assets and thus to a higher group equity ratio, negatively impacting on cash flow for the 2023 financal year, as will decline of the bicycle division’s revenue stream. Guidance for the 2023 annual result has therefore been adjusted by the Pierer board, which expects sales growth limited to 7-9% and a reduced operating margin of 5-7%. Most controversially, Pierer is to relocate some production for mid-range motorcycle models and certain R&D activities to strategic partners Bajaj Auto in India and CFMoto in China during the coming year. This is reportedly intended to exploit cost advantages, and accelerate development and industrialisation processes. Up to 300 jobs at the company’s main plant in Mattighofen and other Austrian locations will be sacrificed. Generally, Pierer Mobility’s pre-results outlook statement was stern. “We expect the global economic environment to be difficult in 2024, a year of consolidation which will be used to strengthen our core business,” opined the board of directors. “In order to secure group profitability, management will implement cost-cutting measures in the double-digit million euro range.”

New annual slot for Intermot AFTER THE LOW KEY REVIVAL OF GERMANY’S Intermot biennial motorcycle trade fair in autumn 2022, following a four-year hiatus owing to Covid, many media professionals in attendance thought that the lacklustre event would be the last. But apparently German industry association IVM, Intermot’s promoter, has a cunning plan to the contrary. Intermot is to be staged at the Koelnmesse exhibition halls in Cologne, where it was originally spawned, adopting an annual frequency to challenge Milan’s recently much more successful EICMA, and later 5-8 December dates to hopefully capture a Christmas season attendance surge. And

FEBRUARY 2024

to this end, the IVM has already claimed support from some major putative exhibitors – BMW Motorrad, Kawasaki Motors Europe and Yamaha Motor Europe. Whether others will join them in sufficient quantities, having already launched their new products at the earlier EICMA bash, has to be a moot point. More realistically, the IVM target will probably be a national show, similar to the UK’s Motorcycle Live, rather than playing a futile game of “catch up” on the Italians, who now obviously own the international arena. www.intermot-cologne.com

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International news

Sound year for Triumph A recognition that trading conditions for the motorcycle industry remain challenging, amid global economic uncertainty with rising inflation and interest rates around the world, didn’t stop Triumph Motorcycles from delivering solid results in its full financial year to 30 June 2023. Changing product mix meant total annual revenue from motorcycles, parts and accessories was slightly reduced, 1.1% down to £703.3m. Turnover in the UK grew by 6% to £83.9m, while the rest of Europe declined marginally by 1.2% to £288.7m. North America

was a muscular 25.7% up to £183m. Taken together, markets elsewhere in the world fell by 24% to £147.7m.

in group undertakings, interest receivable and payable, etc, had been factored in, pre-tax profit climbed by 38.1% to £72.4m. Net

Rising inflation and interest rates around the world, didn’t stop Triumph Motorcycles from delivering solid results But overall cost of sales also dropped by 5.3% to £600.1m, helping to almost treble operating profit to £39.7m. Operating margin rose from 2% to 5.6%. Once substantial income from shares

profit stacked on 24.8% to £62m. Wholesale motorcycle shipments during this 12-month period were essentially static, rising by just 0.2% to 88,607 units. Some 89.5% of these were sold in

overseas countries, 5% up on the previous year. Developments in Triumph’s current financial year to 30 June 2024 include introduction of an off-road product portfolio in the motocross and enduro segments, as well as closer collaboration with its OSET Bikes junior electric offroader group subsidiary. A non-equity partnership with India’s Bajaj Auto will see Bajaj building a new range of more accessible mid-capacity bikes too, sold through Triumph dealers. Bajaj will also become key distributor for Triumph products in the Indian market.

French expansion for Hoco Parts NETHERLANDS-BASED POWERSPORTS Distribution Group (PDG), with Hoco Parts operations spanning across Benelex countries and the UK that can already claim to be among Europe’s largest distributors of motorcycle parts and accessories, has extended its reach in a southerly direction for the first time. Financed by its private equity parent Torqx Capital Partners, PDG has just taken over the assets of France Equipement, which will become part of the Hoco Parts Group. A prospering Gallic enterprise established in 1979, France Equipement specialises in supplying the French motorcycle trade with a broad product

offering, including consumables, accessories and tyres for motorcycles, scooters and ATVs. It carries a wide range of well-known brands, including its own in-house branding. The company’s sales and management team will continue to support customers from offices at Nevers in the Loire valley, a central location about 150 miles southeast of Paris and, incidentally, close to the Magny Cours Grand Prix circuit. Commenting on this latest deal, Hoco Parts managing director Arno van der Glind said: “We’re pleased to welcome France Equipement and their experienced team. As our first French-based acquisition, it fits perfectly with

our ambitions to build a position in the French market via both organic growth and acquisitions. Hoco Parts will be fully supportive with both distribution and continuous development of the France Equipement brand, and product portfolio.” France Equipement director Rudy Lartigot added: “This will be the next step in development for our company and brands. Joining forces with a major European distribution group will be a great opportunity for our employees, customers and suppliers. It will further strengthen our postion and, most importantly, help us to offer an even greater level of service to customers.”

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International news

Austrian KSR Group restructures

an-European motorcycle, scooter and ATV distributor KSR Group, which primarily relied on various Chinese-sourced products and once boasted up to 60,000 new bike sales annually, is back in business after its creditors approved court-administered restructuring measures. This family-owned enterprise, based at Gedersdorf in Lower Austria, had placed itself in the external management hands of insolvency practictioner Christoph Sauer, appointed by the Krems an der Donau District Court in early September last year. The move to enter administration was apparently taken after leading Chinese manufacturer CFMoto switched its exclusive European distributive allegiances from KSR to KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas manufacturer Pierer Mobility. Previously, KSR claimed to be the biggest supplier of ATVs in German-speaking countries and esewhere in Europe, due to its CFMoto relationship. More than 140 jobs have been saved and, as Sauer’s role as restructuring manager ended with the court release order,

KSR says it can now make independent business decisions again, adapting more flexibly to economic conditions. According to KSR Group managing directors Michael and Christian Kirschenhofer, reorganisation will see Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Greece and Belgium remain as core mobility markets supplied through their established dealer networks. But other countries will now be handled via importers. Reduction in markets and brands should create leaner structures and more cost efficiencies, they hope. In global sales, the focus will be on KSR’s wholly-owned Malaguti and Brixton brands, presumably produced in China. KSR acquired the defunct Italian Malaguti brand in 2018. “The foundation for a successful future has been laid,” said the Kirschenhofer brothers in a statement. “This was made possible, on the one hand, by the willingness of our business partners to cooperate and, on the other hand, by the great support of our employees. We would like to thank everyone involved for their trust and we can now be full of optimism for the next steps.”

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Electric news

Electric news DfT gives £70m boost to UK fast EV charging network

eader.indd 1

04/12/2023 17:43

THE UK GOVERNMENT HAS ANNOUNCED AN extra £70m to build more electric vehicle fast charging points across the country. The money is part of a pilot scheme announced by transport secretary Mark Harper, which will focus on getting more chargers onto motorway service stations in particular. The project is also launching a consultation on where the chargers are most needed.

Yamaha’s new Euro electric firm

he difficult problem of battery power on light vehicles is still waiting for an easy solution. Adding enough batteries for the desired power and range is expensive and adds lots of mass. Consumers don’t want extended charging times, nor do they want to buy their own spare batteries. A swappable battery scheme seems like a good plan – it’s used in Taiwan by Kymco and other firms. But it’s a long way off at the moment in Europe. Now though, Yamaha has set up a firm in Germany to offer swappable battery services. ENYRING GmbH, based in Berlin, aims to produce a closedcircle ecosystem of recharging, re-using and finally recycling lithium-ion batteries for urban mobility transport systems. It’s aiming at e-bicycles initially and is looking for strategic business partnerships in that sector. However, the scheme is expected to extend into motorcycles, scooters, and other light vehicles if successful.

YAMAHA MOTOR EUROPE (YME) president and CEO, Eric de Seynes (above right), has stepped down and has been replaced by Olivier Prévost, currently vice-president of YME. De Seynes took the position as chair of the supervisory board on 1 January 2024.

Verge adds AI cameras MOST HIGH-END CARS COME WITH SOME SORT OF RADAR/LIDAR/ camera driver assistance these days. Bikes have mostly escaped this trend so far, but super-luxury electric bike brand Verge has announced that its adding radar, cameras and smart machine-learning to its TS Ultra flagship model in an attempt to improve safety by notifying the rider of cars changing lanes or pulling out of a junction. It’s a move that makes sense: the technology already largely exists to help drivers avoid collisions, and motorcyclists would benefit significantly from any extra help. Verge is very much a niche producer, of course, but we’d expect more of this sort of thing on more mainstream machinery in the next few years.

JOIN THE ELECTRIC EVOLUTION As the UK’s best-selling electric motorcycle brand, we were strategically bought out by the Vmoto Soco Group manufacturer in 2023 to guarantee long term stability to owners and to further our commitment to encouraging a shift towards electric commuting. As we continue to grow we are looking for new dealers to come on board and join the UK’s electric revolution. Email gareth@vmotosoco.com for more information.

FEBRUARY 2024

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Alternative powered two wheeler registrations for December 2023

attery-electric PTWs certainly weren’t high Ultra Bee motorcycles. Defined higher power category sales were up on consumers’ Christmas shopping lists during December. Sparky market share laughable. The 11-35kW slot was occupied by precisely two 15kW BMW CE 04 deteriorated from 6.7% to 4.9% maxiscooters, equating to a 66.7% of all monthly PTW registrations. PTWs certainly Machines above 35kW were Total ePTW volume actually fell by weren’t high up decline. conspicuous by their utter absence. 35.7% to a mere 256 units. 13 exempt and two unknown As usual, the up-to-11kW mobility on consumers’ machines made up the numbers. sector dominated what sales did Over the full 12 months of occur, but these were 27.8% down Christmas 2023, overall battery-electric to 239 units. Within that, mopeds shopping lists PTW registrations have fallen by up to 4kW rose marginally by 2.8% to 109. A total of 27 Sur-Ron Light Bee motorcycles 37.8% to 4062 units. Within that figure, the up-towith trail styling took best-seller honours. 4-11kW 11kW majority plunged by 38% to 3718 units, the machines ridden on A1 licences plummeted by 42.2% 11-35kW sector was 47.3% down to 69 units, overto 130. Some 48 samples of the SEAT MÓ e-scooter 35kW motorcycles were 50% in arrears on 58 units. 125 – marketed by Volkswagen’s Spanish automotive Annualised ePTW market share has shrunk to 3.6% subsidiary – topped this pile, pursued by 36 Sur-Ron from 2022’s 5.6%. 2023 / 2022 Registrations by power band Dec 2023

POWER BAND

Dec 2022

% Change

Year to date Dec 2023

Dec 2022

% Change

Highest registering model by power band

Dec Regs

Under 4kW

109

106

+2.8%

1762

2909

-39.4%

Sur-Ron Light Bee

4-11kW

130

225

-42.2%

1956

3090

-36.7%

Scutum Seat MO Escooter

Electric news

JOIN THE Registrations data BIKESURE DEALER B SCHEME TODAY EARN £50 FOR EVERY POLICY SOLD FROM YOUR REFERRAL

Benefits of the Bikesure Dealer Scheme: • Specialist Schemes Multi-bikes, 125cc & Scooters, Classic Bikes, Electric Bikes, Plus much more

11-35kW

-66.7%

131

-47.3%

BMW CE 04

Over 35kW

-100.0%

116

-50.0%

N/A

• Dealer point of sale supplies provided

Exempt

85.7%

101

20.2%

Electric Motion Epure Race

• Dealer Support Team on hand

Unknown

-96.2%

116

196

-40.8%

256

398

-35.7%

4062

6526

-37.8%

TOTAL REGISTRATIONS

• Referral Payments made to you monthly

2023 / 2022 Registrations by style MOPEDS

Dec 2023

Dec 2022

% Change

MOTORCYCLES

Dec 2023

Dec 2022

% Change

Adventure

0.0%

Adventure

-66.7%

Competition

-19.6%

Competition

363.6%

Custom

0.0%

Modern classic

-95.7%

EPAC

0.0%

Naked

-63.3%

Modern Classic

0.0%

Road sport

0.0%

Naked

25.0%

Scooter

160

-49.4%

Other L-Cat

0.0%

Unspecified

Scooter

9.8%

TOTAL

Unspecified

0.0%

109

106

2.8%

TOTAL TRICYCLES

Dec 2023

Dec 2022

% Change

-94.7%

TOTAL

TOTAL REGISTRATIONS

-100.0%

146

254

-42.5%

Dec 2023

Dec 2022

% Change

257

398

-35.4%

CALL US NOW ON

0800 916 1250

BEST SELLING MODELS 2023

Alternate power rolling year 1200

1. Sur-Ron Ultra Bee 1. Vmoto Super Soco CPX 2. Sur-Ron Light Bee 3. Maeving RM1 4. Vmoto Super Soco CUx

2021/22

1000

2022/23

800 600

351 274 248 208 196

400 200

www.britishdealernews.co.uk

De c

No v

Oc t

Sep

Au g

Jul

Jun

Ma y

Ap r

Ma r

Feb

Jan

De c

Registration statistics supplied by the MCIA; tel 02476 408000; www.mcia.co.uk

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FEBRUARY 2024 Financial Conduct Authority29

Off-road news

The UK’S TOP SELLING OFF-ROAD RACE WEAR 01900 873456 www.wulfsport.com

Off-road news With off-road correspondent Rick Kemp

All set for the Classic Dirt Bike Show

t’s Classic Dirt Bike Show time again, and hundreds of traders will be offering dirt-biking gear – from spares, parts and accessories to riding kit and even project bikes if you’re up for a challenge! Visitors can also pick up some pre-loved parts in the autojumble, starting at 9am at the Telford International Centre, Shropshire, over the weekend of 10-11 February. Visitors can admire hundreds of beautifully prepared off-road machines throughout the weekend from clubs and private owners. It’s not often you can find some of the UK’s finest machines all under one roof. Hagon Shocks continues its sponsorship of the event, and Hagon’s Tony Hutchinson says he is keen to carry on the brand association. “It’s good to be able to put something back in – not all our marketing decisions are based on facts, figures and instant revenue return. Brand awareness from the show may reap dividends over the following six months. The spread of applications we’ve got – classic, onand off-road and trials – means that we’ve got well north of a thousand applications now.

“The later trail and adventure bikes have become taller and taller, making custom suspension more popular, and suspension units have never been a one-size-fits-all component. The Classic Dirt Bike Show has always been a fairly relaxed event, with time to talk with visitors who have other bikes that they restore and change, like Harley, Triumph and Royal Enfield, which get customised to be a tracker, bobber, café racer or whatever. The market is huge, and it works for us.” Mortons Media Group’s commercial director, Nigel Hole, is equally enthusiastic. “We’re delighted to be back at the Telford International Centre for the best dirt bike show on the calendar with our longtime sponsor, Hagon. 2024 welcomes three incredible star guests from the world of speedway, trials and motocross: Kelvin Tatum, Yrjo ‘Vesty’ Vesterinen and Neil Hudson. With five world championships between them, there’s sure to be some proper stories to tell. Tickets are selling at a record pace, and there is very little remaining

space left for trade and autojumble. It’s going to be an incredible show.” www.classicdirtbikeshow.co.uk

10TEN goes large on a charge Polaris OFF-ROAD BIKE MANUFACTURER 10TEN MX has introduced an adult range of electric off-road bikes to complement its existing smallwheel MX-E fully electric model. Unveiled at the beginning of the year, the 10TEN MX-E 3 and MX-E 3L offer a solution for adults

and teenagers looking to join the electric motocross trend with reasonably priced, high-quality machines. Both models feature a highpower, 72V battery with a Bafang motor providing a consistant 3kW with a peak power of 12kW, 10Ten MX-E 3L transferred through a four-speed transmission. This is enough to whisk either bike to their max speed of 100km/h (about 62mph in real money) in 4.5 seconds, and to provide a range of up to 100km between charges, which take four hours. The MX-E 3 claims to bridge the gap between pit bike and 10Ten MX-E 3 full-size off-roader, making it ideal for both adults and teenagers. It has 19in front and 16in rear wheels and adjustable long-travel suspension, with modern styling and an 870mm seat height keeps it up to date. The MX-E 3L is a full-size

FEBRUARY 2024

adult bike with a seat height of 940mm. It comes with 21in front and 18in rear wheels and is fitted with 48mm diameter front forks offering 260mm of travel along with a fully adjustable rear shock offering a similar amount of wheel travel. Popular for being competitively priced and fun to ride, all Dualways machines are sold with the assurance provided by a major, wellestablished distributor, a UK-wide retail network, full spares back-up and parts and labour warranty. The MX-E3 has an SRP of £4699 and the MX-E 3L £5999. Dualways is also the TGB ATV distributor in the UK, and it has introduced a 0% finance scheme on all TGB ATV models. TGB also offers a five-year warranty on all ATV models. Dualways 01623 708607 drew.m@dualways.com www.dualways.com

expands in Scotland

olaris Off-Road has added Forfar dealership Gammies Groundcare to its UK dealer network. Gammies provides its services across a 50mile radius, including Angus, Fife, and Aberdeenshire areas. Founded in 1968, Gammies Groundcare supplies a huge variety of equipment, including lawn, garden, agricultural, horticultural, and ground care equipment,and has now expanded the range to offer Polaris off-road vehicles. It will offer the full Polaris line-up, including the Ranger, Sportsman and RZR brands and the youth line-up. In addition Gammies will provide servicing, repair and maintenance services both on site and in the workshop. www.gammies.co.uk

www.britishdealernews.co.uk

Off-road news

Lectron signs new UK distributor S “We are thrilled to introduce the Lectron uzuki Performance Spares has announced the latest addition to its product line- Pro Series Carburettors to our customers,” said up – the Lectron Billetron Pro Series Nick Pepper, director at Suzuki Performance Carburettor. This cutting-edge product is said to Spares. “This product represents the pinnacle revolutionise off-road motorcycling by offering of Lectron’s innovation. This exclusive unparalleled precision, performance, and power. partnership further solidifies SPS as a key The Billetron Pro Series 38 carburettor is provider of the acclaimed Lectron carburettor claimed to redefine two-stroke performance for products in the UK over the last ten years. 125-299cc motors. Its innovative design is said to We can’t wait for off-road enthusiasts to provide unprecedented torque, horsepower, and experience the difference it makes.” For more information about the Lectron Pro rideability gains. The Pro Series boasts tailored air flow, velocity dynamics, an Xcelerator metering Series Carburettors and other performance rod, and three adjustable fuel circuits for optimal products offered by Suzuki Performance Spares, www.suzukiperformancespares.co.uk or coordination. The manufacturer says that the visit instant fuel activation and quick screw adjustments contact Nick and the team at the Downham Market, Norfolk HQ on 01366 383802. make it the most powerful choice available.

Youth Sidecar cross classes THE ACU MOTOCROSS Committee has announced that regulations for 2024 have been approved for Youth Sidecar classes. This is something that they have been looking at for some months now, as they feel it is vital to encourage the next generation of pilots and passengers. The YSC1 class will be for 9to 11-year-olds on up-to-150cc two-stroke or 250cc four-stroke machinery, and the YSC2 class will be for 11- to 16-year-olds piloting up to 250cc two-strokes and 450cc four-strokes. The Youth Sidecars will be permitted to race alongside Youth Quad classes, another innovative move designed to create sufficient numbers to allow clubs to cater to these younger riders. ACU motocross chairman Steve McCauley commented, “We have been innovative, proactive and forward-thinking in creating these new classes. We are fully aware that it will take time to build a successful structure, but I am very proud of the work that the committee and our secretary have put into this. I’d also like to thank Kate Murch again for her invaluable help and assistance with these new formats”.

32 FEBRUARY 2024

Next gen Can-Am ATVs at LAMMA

an-Am elected to release its new utility models at the LAMMA show at the NEC in January. This comprised the Can-Am Outlander 500 (HD5) and Can-Am Outlander 700 (HD7) models, which spearheaded a selection of ATVs and SSVs from the 2024 Can-Am utility line-up. These new models have been designed and developed from the ground up by BRP’s engineers to provide an improved rider experience thanks to increased performance, comfort, storage and versatility, so they can handle the demands of utility users with ease. The new Outlander Base Pro HD5 T is a workready vehicle that provides the user with consistent performance with the help of class-leading power from the all-new Rotax engine, ground clearance, suspension travel, towing and rack capacity. The Outlander Pro XU HD7 ABS puts out 50hp and 41ftlb of torque, so climbing, towing and carrying are now more accessible and more efficient. To complement the ATVs on display was Can-Am’s SSV line-up, which includes the Can-Am Traxter HD7 and Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10. The Can-Am Traxter HD7 provides users with consistent performance for longer, thanks to its 40-litre fuel tank. The Traxter 6x6 DPS HD10 is a workhorse SSV that handles everything from hauling machinery to transporting

workers and equipment to job sites while providing owners with the comfort, power and performance that is expected from a Traxter. Rachael Turner, BRP commercial manager in the UK and Ireland, said, “The LAMMA show is one that our team circles in the calendar because it brings together a wide-ranging audience under one roof, from students studying at college to smallholders to large landowners. We are excited for the UK show debut of our new ATVs, the Can-Am Outlander 500 and Can-Am Outlander 700. These two models are the latest evolution of the Outlander line-up and have been designed from the ground up with the user in mind.”

Corvus back in the classroom SEVERAL UK CORVUS DEALERS were back at school for a week in November on the first-ever BOSS ORV technical training course at the Corvus factory in Murcia, Spain. Corvus, Europe’s first 4x4 utility vehicle manufacturer, was commended for the effort put into the organisation of the event, which was led by Gabriel Motos and José Fernández Blázquez. The course covered a full factory tour and classes on

the latest Corvus Terrain Diesel DX machines, described by Boss as following the line of its predecessors but with improved aspects that make it definitely superior. The range comprises five models, or variations, and the course covered all aspects. There was also specialised training on the new fully electric Corvus EX4, which the company defines as an all-electric 4x4 utility vehicle with lower maintenance costs

coupled with great robustness and durability. The factory visit and course was the first of a series. Phil Everett, BOSS ORV managing director, praised the dealers attending for engaging in the training and helping develop the courses for future attendees. BOSS ORV 01785 561046 sales@bossorv.co.uk www.bossorv.co.uk

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2024 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition MAKE NO MISTAKE, THIS IS THE real deal – a works ride. It’s a highly evolved and modified spec of the production model KTM 450 SX-F, orientated even more towards pure performance, with upgrades tried, tested and selected through use in competition. The SX-F Factory Edition can be easily identified thanks to the orange powdercoated frame, a feature typically reserved for the ‘works’ machinery. So, what does the new 450 SX-F have to offer? First of all, the Connectivity Unit Offroad (CUO) is an important new addition. This two-part system is mounted between the fork legs – protected by the new shape of the number board – with a GPS component fixed onto the redesigned front mudguard. It enables a wealth of easily adjustable options for engine performance and suspension settings via the KTM Connect App and opens up numerous new customisation options and the ability to personalise

preferences without needing external specialised help. But that’s not all, an official affiliation with timing app provider LitPro will assist riders in examining their lines, speed, gearing, and a lot of other information to make their lap times hit the mark. The new chassis has been a key focus during development. It features varied frame wall thickness and cutaway sections to enhance flexibility and reduce weight, and repositions rotating mass toward the centre of gravity, improving traction out of corners and giving enhanced anti-squat behaviour. Handling adjustments include new CNC-milled, orange anodised, rubber-damped triple clamps made from high-grade aluminium, WP suspension, an Akrapovič slip-on exhaust and a Brembo braking system. Plus, it comes with all the bolt-on goodies that most owners would consider fitting included in the SRP of £11,449.

Off-road news

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cerbis believes the perfect boot for riding in motocross or enduro must be protective, lightweight and durable as well as offer freedom of movement and sensitivity. It also believes its new Whoop boots incorporate all these features, together with premium style and design. The shin guards protect the front of the leg, while the heel area is protected by a moulded structure that absorbs shocks. The jointed cuff reduces lateral ankle flexing, ensuring mobility and sensitivity. The toe area design reduces the height between the sole and the shift lever. Fastening is managed by four aluminium levers with ample adjustment possibilities and a convenient unidirectional upper Velcro fastener, which allows perfect adherence of the gaiter to the leg simply by closing the upper lever. The boot’s interior has a fabric

3D mesh padding, which promotes ventilation and air circulation. Inside is a rubber insert, resistant to high exhaust temperatures. The anatomical footbed is designed to reduce impacts during landings from jumps. The Acerbis antishock two-component sole is designed to withstand the wear and tear caused by the aggressive action of the bike's foot pegs, offers protection from accidental impacts and is oil and petrol-resistant. The Whoop boots are available in three colours: orange/black, black/white and grey/fluo yellow, in Euro sizes 39 to 47, for a SRP of £249.99. Acerbis UK 01582 491076 www.acerbis.com

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Business Beat

Business Beat VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE Violence in a retail environment is a problem that cannot be ignored

t seems that certain parts of society have become emboldened with few cares when it comes to getting what they want or responding if they hear something that they don’t like. In the extreme, violence that includes physical injury, verbal abuse, online threats and sexual harassment or assault can follow. So what duties does the employer owe to the employee and is the employer liable for any injury caused?

WHO IS LIABLE? Lucy Gordon, a partner in Walker Morris, addresses the liability issue first. Assuming there is evidence that the injury was caused by an employee or member of public, she asks

who caused the injury? “If the perpetrator was a member of the public, and the incident took place during the employee’s working hours, whilst they were on duty, the employer will probably only be liable if it can be established that the employer failed in its duty to provide a safe place of work.” But if the violence is carried out by a fellow employee, Gordon says that the employer is much more likely to be liable for any injury caused, depending on the circumstances of the incident: “The test is whether there was a sufficiently close connection with the violent act that it can be regarded as being in the course of employment. As such, if someone fights with a colleague during working hours and on the premises, this will almost certainly be the employer’s responsibility, and the employer will be liable for any injury caused.” She adds that “it is only if the violent act of the employee was so far removed from their employment that the employer may

potentially escape liability.” Liability may also arise even if the employee was off duty at the time if there was a sufficiently close connection with what was expected of the employee. Gordon turns to statutory claims, such as for discrimination, which need to relate to “the course of employment”. This means that “social gatherings of employees outside of working hours may be considered to be ‘in the course of employment’, whereas an unplanned chance meeting outside work between colleagues may not be considered as such”. The classic example is the Christmas party where the potential for sexual harassment claims or other claims for discrimination from employees exist not only at the party itself, but possibly also at the after-party, the after-after party and when getting a lift home. As for assaults, claims against the employer will – says Gordon – depend on

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with Adam Bernstein www.abfeatures.com the closeness of the connection to the activities entrusted to the employee: “An employer is likely to remain liable for the acts of a manager who continues an argument, which started in work, in which he asserts his managerial authority, at an ‘unofficial’ social gathering and subsequently physically assaults a colleague.” However, she says that an employer may not be liable for a sexual assault which takes place at the home of an employee, who has invited a colleague in a purely social capacity.

DUTIES TO EMPLOYEES Given the potential for employers to be liable for violence at work, what duties do employers owe to prevent injuries? Helpfully, updated HSE guidance was published on 30 March 2023 for employers on violence at work and how to prevent it. Gordon details that the guidance states that violence includes verbal abuse and threats, and that these may occur in person, online or on the telephone. It recommends that “employers must perform a risk assessment to identify any risks to workers and implement effective control measures – including how to prevent and manage violence.” She continues: “Employers must consult employees and their representatives on health and safety as part of this assessment to ensure that all risks have been covered.” The most common control measure is signage and queueing for members of the public to warn them about their behaviour along with staff training on de-escalating violence. Gordon warns that “employers are required to report dangerous occurrences to the HSE under RIDDOR and adequately support victims with counselling and recovery.” But for internal risks, Gordon advises employers to have detailed policies in place prohibiting violence, discrimination and harassment at work, and to train employees on what constitutes violence. She notes that “the ways that employees now have to communicate with each other, from Teams,

Employers must perform a risk assessment to identify any risks to workers and implement effective control measures to WhatsApp to Instagram and TikTok means that whilst hybrid working may be the new norm, reducing time spent faceto-face does not similarly reduce the scope for harassment and violence amongst colleagues.” It is also important for employers to manage allegations of violence or harassment well. Rather than brushing these under the carpet, investigations should be carried out and disciplinary action may be warranted, depending on the severity. One particularly tricky area is in relation to alleged sexual assaults and rapes. Gordon knows that “employers may feel ill-equipped to make judgments on allegations made by employees”, but says that where the police are involved, there may be no “immediate justification for dismissing an employee, even where they are being investigated for or have been charged with a crime.”

However, employers can suspend alleged assailants pending the outcome of an investigation, and “don’t necessarily need to await the outcome of criminal proceedings before making a fair and reasonable decision to dismiss.” It follows that any internal investigation must not jeopardise the criminal process. Lastly, Gordon says that if the matter has not been reported to the police, the victim will need careful handling. She says that “the decision of whether to report the matter to the police should be the employee’s alone; reporting without their consent would only potentially be justified if there was a clear and immediate risk of harm to other employees.”

SUMMARY Violence in the workplace is a risk to both employer and employee; action needs to be taken to reduce the likelihood of incidents. 

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FEBRUARY 2024

Business Beat

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Marketing Matters

MARKETING

MATTERS

Expert adv ice to improve how you promote and sell you IT IS SAID THAT THOSE WHO CANNOT REMEMBER THE PAST ARE r condemned to repeat it. In a new six-part series for BDN, Dan Sager products or from Fab-Biker PR investigates some famous public relations failures and services asks what could have been done to avoid them. fab-biker.co.uk

TOTAL RECALL

If you have to apologise, do it properly and make it sincere, otherwise you could end up in a complete ‘mare

ands up if you remember Findus Crispy Pancakes? Introduced in the 1970s, the frozen pancakes with a savoury stuffing were a staple of many a family meal throughout the 1980s and 90s. These days, as you browse the freezer section in your local supermarket, you may find crispy pancakes, but they will be labelled Birds Eye, which begs the question; “whatever happened to Findus?” The answer is a badly handled product recall. In 2013, Europe was rocked by the discovery of horsemeat masquerading as beef in frozen meals and burgers. Irish tests exposed the deception, with some products containing up to 100% horsemeat. The scandal spread across borders, implicating major supermarkets and suppliers. Findus Beef Lasagne was found to contain substantial amounts of horsemeat and was promptly withdrawn from sale. Findus announced that it would no longer accept meat from its French supplier and issued a public apology on its website;

FEBRUARY 2024

“We understand this is a very sensitive subject for consumers and we would like to reassure you we have reacted immediately. We do not believe this to be a food safety issue. We are confident that we have fully resolved this supply chain issue. We would like to

Saying sorry was a good start but they needed to show that they really meant it take this opportunity to apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused.” Findus also offered customers a refund for products purchased. Does that sound like a sincere apology to you? Are you reassured by the line “We do not believe this to be a food safety issue”? Is a refund really sufficient, bearing in mind that loyal customers may have been buying horsecontaminated products for months? The British public can’t have been impressed, because the brand never really recovered.

Findus had been trying to take its products upmarket, to differentiate them from the budget supermarket offerings, but being embroiled in the horsemeat scandal derailed that plan. Three years later the end came, when Young’s (the parent company) discontinued the Findus brand in the UK, replacing it with Chef’s Classic and Original Pancake Co. What could Findus have done differently? Saying sorry was a good start but they needed to show that they really meant it. An offer of a refund for recent purchases wasn’t enough. It should also have given customers free alternatives from the range, so they stayed engaged with the brand, and then followed up with a campaign to demonstrate the quality and integrity of its products – several other brands committed to only using British beef in future – and the story could have turned out differently. Handling issues like this costs money – that’s what happens when mistakes are made – but in the long run, doing it properly will save your reputation and your business will be worth more too. 

NEXT MONTH If it ain’t broke, rebranding won’t fix it.

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Trago2Wheels

IN THE

Trago2Wheels Newton Abbot showroom

SWM

West Country retail giant Trago Mills has extended its motorcycle retail operation with the addition of the Italian SWM brand, for which they have also been appointed UK distributors. Rick Kemp reports

ccording to Trago2Wheels division manager Trevor Goodman, the company’s initial meeting with Italian manufacturer SWM Motorcycles resulted in Trago seeing growth opportunities for both parties. Trago2Wheels was seeking a manufacturer partner wishing to re-establish itself in the UK market, while SWM required a UK distributor of substance. Negotiations commenced in 2021, with initial stock eventually arriving mid-season last year. Are motorcycles a compatible commodity for Trago, a major player in the general retail discount sector? Goodman says PTWs are no more unusual than many of the 200,000 other products in the business’s uniquely broad inventory, which, in the words of the company’s founder Mike Robertson, range from “diamonds to dustbins”. The business, which originally started in salvage, has grown over the last 55 years to become something of a West Country institution, now attracting more than two

38 FEBRUARY 2024

million visitors a year to its four stores in Devon and Cornwall and, more recently, a huge premises in Merthyr Tydfil. Central to the business’s success is its focus on family shopping for literally ‘whatever you want’, a slogan that Trago bangs out at every opportunity with the accompaniment of popular rockers Status Quo. “We have three guiding principles, no matter what the product or its category. They are: choice, destination and unbeatable prices. Old-fashioned hardware store choice aside, it is our destinations that set us apart from other brick-and-mortar retailers, plus the bit of theatre our fun parks and idyllic settings bring to shopping”, says chairman Bruce Roberston, who has something of a penchant for motorbikes. When launching Trago2Wheels nine years ago, he was clear about its mission. “We wanted to offer affordable machines to get folk onto two wheels without excessive cost. We started with 50s and 125s,

and now, having found our feet, we are offering mid-capacity machines to existing customers wishing to trade up, as well as many new customers. As I see it, one of the great virtues of having bikes on offer in popular retail rather than ‘solus’ bike dealerships is that it opens up a whole new audience, while at the same time destigmatising a legitimate mobility option, irrespective of it being for a transport need or as a hobby. It’s great to see youngsters booking our free ‘Get Started’ taster sessions and fledgling riders and parents leaving with big smiles on their faces. I’d like to see much more of it; the industry desperately needs more new young riders.” Trevor Goodman, Trago2Wheels division manager

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Trago2Wheels

Family succession took place in 1986 when Mike Robertson handed over the reins to son Bruce. When Mike died in 2001, annual company turnover was in excess of £100m, and the business employed nearly one thousand staff. Since then the numbers have grown. What’s the secret? “Make no mistake, our customers know that every product, from the cheapest through to the most expensive branded merchandise, is offered at a price which will be substantially less than can be found elsewhere,” says Goodman. “It’s our pledge, and it resonates with customers as well as our suppliers: Lexmoto, Voge, Keeway, Bluroc, and Herald are all brands that offer top value at budget prices.” Trago2Wheels has the financial backing of long-established parent company Trago Mills, a fact that is not lost on customers and which Goodman is sure is a huge sales asset “We’re not going anywhere soon and will be here to help our customers for as long as is needed”. Importing has become a different deal post-Brexit, and not everyone is set up to handle the extra work involved, but it’s everyday bread and butter for Trago and a routine part of its mainstream business. Not surprisingly, SWM was particularly keen to find a dependable replacement for its previous UK importer, which went into liquidation owing trade customers over £1.4m.

For those unfamiliar with the Trago brand, think of the biggest local multiple retailer, only larger, with restaurants, leisure activities and a touch of almost undefinable idiosynchronisity. As Bruce Robertson likes to put it: “A bazaar run by bizarre people.” The first T2W showroom opened in 2013 at the Newton

We’re not going anywhere soon and will be here to help our customers for as long as is needed Trevor Goodman, division manager, Trago2Wheels

Abbot branch, where Lexmoto lightweights were initially offered, together with a complete starter package, including free taster sessions, training to advanced level, clothing and accessories, alongside workshop and MOT facilities. Customers purchasing a bike or scooter get a spend-in-store voucher equivalent to 10% off the retail price as part of the business’s ‘best price’ proposition. This initiative is extended to the Merthyr operation, where the bike showroom nestles Trago’s Merthyr Tydfil store opened in April 2018

between sporting goods and DIY, right at the heart of Trago’s 200,000sq.ft megastore. A fully equipped service bay is adjacent and will be offering MOT facilities later this season. SWM is certainly not a new brand – celebrating its fiftieth anniversary in 2022. It built championship-winning off-road bikes in Italy from 1971 until it ran into financial difficulties in the early 1980s. After going through a complicated series of brand owners over the years, the SWM name was bought in 2014 by the Shineray Group, an automotive conglomerate which has substantial manufacturing capacity in China, where it has 50 subsidiary companies making motorcycles, cars, agricultural machinery and more. Following the acquisition, massive investment was made refurbishing and updating the former Husqvarna factory at Varese, just outside Milan,

Trago2Wheels Bike Night held at the company’s Newton Abbot store in July 2023

which resulted in the launch of six all-new SWM bikes in 2015. According to SWM, the new Varese factory is state-of-art, featuring facilities such as CAD/ CAE/CAM, 3D printers and CNC machines. It has dedicated areas for frame preparation, welding, and torsional testing. Its own design centre gives it the capacity to go from a pencil sketch right through to production, quality control and road testing. Alongside its retail operation, Trago2Wheels has also been appointed SWM UK distributor and is keen to hear from interested dealers. All bikes are supplied with a two-year parts and labour warranty. Spares stock is being built up at Newton Abbot and is supported by a 5-7 day delivery service from the factory. Appointed dealers, who must have operational workshops, will have a SWM portal advising on parts availability and also technical questions and warranties. Dealer margin is 15%.  Trago2Wheels 01626 821 111 Ext: 2350 trevor.goodman@trago.co.uk www.trago.co.uk/swm

SWM MODEL RANGE

RS500 R ENDURO Red RRP £7699

RS125 R ENDURO

SM125 R SUPER MOTO

RS300 R ENDURO

SM500 R SUPER MOTO

SIX6 500

HOKU 125 E5

Red RRP £3990

Red or black RRP £7299

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Red, yellow or white RRP £3990

Green, yellow or orange RRP £4299

Red RRP £7499

Red or black RRP £3699

FEBRUARY 2024

Business Essentials

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The Business The latest news and views in the world of business

Protecting your trade secrets

ata held by retailers can be central to their continued existence and needs protection from those that would wish to abuse it. There are countless malevolent external factors, hackers and fraudsters for example – but not all firms properly protect their information from abuse by employees. The problem is that trusted employees often have ready access to systems and may go unchallenged when interrogating them. Further, when they leave, they can take unprotected data with them. So, how can firms protect any confidential data they hold and prevent it from walking out the door with a departing employee?

INFORMATION PROTECTED BY CONFIDENTIALITY Mark Stevens, senior associate at legal firm VWV, says that information can generally be said to be confidential if it “has the necessary quality of confidence; has been imparted in circumstances where the recipient knows or ought to have known of the confidentiality attached to it; and there has been unauthorised use or disclosure of it to the detriment of the rights holder.” He also points to The Trade Secrets (Enforcement, etc.) Regulations 2018 (SI 2018/597), regulation 2, which similarly defines the matter but in legal terms. Of course, having a definition is one thing, but how does it play out in an employment context? From a legal perspective, during employment, employees have an implied duty to keep all information confidential. However, once they have left, the picture is different, and employers will be more at risk. Here Stevens comments that “after an individual’s employment ends, the balance of public interest favours the employee. Implied confidentiality obligations

FEBRUARY 2024

are therefore generally insufficient in protecting as much information as organisations would usually like.” But he says that there is an exception: if the information amounts to a trade secret, then there is an implied duty of confidentiality – even after termination of employment. What should be worrying for employers is that confidential information can become part of an employee’s necessary skill and knowledge, and, in those circumstances, as Stevens says, “employees are entitled to use that skill and knowledge when they leave for another company or competitor.”

PROCESS IS IMPORTANT There are, however, practical and preventative steps that employers can take to protect

confidential information. The first involves understanding the confidential information that the employer owns such as intellectual property and lists of client names and contact numbers. When done, Stevens says that the employer should make it clear to employees that information is sensitive by marking it as ‘confidential’. Doing this will help when it comes to justifying the employment contract protections that need to be put in place. Next, information needs protection through contracts and policies to dissuade employees from abusing it. For Stevens, an obvious way to do this is to put in place effective security measures for information, such as password protection and encryption. Beyond that are bespoke confidentiality clauses which are incorporated into

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employment contracts. But these need tailoring to what is relevant to the employer so that they capture only that information that can be lawfully protected; generic information is unlikely to be protected by the courts. But looking to a post-termination future, Stevens says that well-drafted, appropriate, restrictive covenants can prevent an employee from joining a competitor for a specified period of time (generally no longer than 12 months) after their employment ends. Similarly, non-solicitation and nondealing restrictions may prevent them from contacting and/or working with any clients or suppliers for a limited period. The same applies when drafting clauses in a settlement agreement where an employee is exiting. They are often drawn up under contentious circumstances, so employers must focus their minds on only the confidential information that needs protection. Something else that Stevens suggests is the use of gardening leave clauses to keep a company safe until a departing employee’s knowledge and experience becomes less useful to rivals. Another tool is a confidentiality policy that details expectations about confidentiality and protecting information.

with Adam Bernstein www.abfeatures.com

But for this to be effective it needs to be proactively read by employees. Yet another option is to help employees

Employers should adopt reporting procedures to ensure that the right information is being circulated to the right people and so that managers know what their staff are seeing identify the confidential information they may be working with or have access to and to train them in its protection during and after employment. For Stevens, this means that “employers should adopt reporting procedures to ensure that the right information is being circulated to the right people and so that managers know what their staff are seeing and doing on a day-to-day basis.” The last step is to look for any data and

confidentiality breaches via software that can watch for suspicious behaviour such as data downloads, emails to personal accounts or excessive printing. However, not breaching employee’s rights under the GDPR is essential – this means informing employees appropriately and taking advice.

THE COURTS HAVE SPOKEN Logically, employers take on staff for the experience that they possess. This, by definition, may involve knowledge in relation to their former employer. But hiring employers should be aware of any restrictions placed on the new hire along with their duties of confidentiality. The problem, says Stevens, is that “skills, knowledge, experience and general knowhow gained during employment can often be regarded as belonging to the employee – difficulties arise when an employee divulges more specific information or uses contacts from their previous employment.” There is case law on the subject, says Stevens. He’s seen previous employers seek to protect information through the courts, which could include issuing an injunction in order to restrain the use of the information: “A previous employer may seek damages or an account of profits from the employee and or the new employer. There are also risks associated with the use of confidential information which is otherwise protected.” As a result, employers should never seek out confidential information from new employees or use anything that they’ve brought with them. At the same time, employers should understand the restrictions placed on new employees by their former employer.

IN SUMMARY Confidential information is by its very nature valuable, and employers should take great care to protect it against loss and misuse. Similarly, they should ensure that they are not put in a position where they might be accused of abusing another’s protected information. 

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The latest products for your showroom LS2 streetwear

MOST CLOTHING BRANDS WILL OFTEN turn to exotic or romantic-sounding locations when looking for inspiration for naming their latest clothing ranges, but LS2 has trodden a different path when labelling its new Bolton jacket and Douglas trousers. Given the reputations of Greater Manchester and the Isle of Man for somewhat inclement weather, it is no surprise that the three layer softshell fabric used for both garments is highly wind- and waterproof, and that there is also a thermal quilted liner to take care of the Northern chills. Easyflex shoulder and elbow protectors are fitted into the Bolton with a pocket for an optional back protector, while the Douglas has the same spec armour at the knees and, optionally, the hips. Both come in men’s sizes S-5XL, and both retail for £129.99. LS2 Helmets UK; 01670 856342; ukservice@ls2helmets.com

Mivv for Ninja 4 ITALIAN EXHAUST MAKER MIVV has taken the latest Kawasaki Ninja 650 sports bike and treated it to a trio of new exhaust systems to make the motor sing a little louder. All three systems comply with the latest Euro 5+ legislation, using a Mivv catalyst to ensure that the relevant gases are removed. The Delta Race system comes in brushed stainless steel or black ceramic coated steel finishes with a carbon endcap and it frees up an extra 2.3hp at the back wheel along with an extra 1.6Nm of torque. The GP Pro race-style muffler comes in gloss carbon or black stainless finishes, with a removable grille that hides the DB killer. Last up is the MK3 system, available in carbon and brushed stainless finishes. Prices are POA. Moto.GB Distribution; 01706 212102; leovincegb@gmail.com

Malossi Dragster screen 4 SCOOTER ACCESSORY FIRM MALOSSI has developed a new shorty screen for the cult favourite Italjet Dragster 125cc and 200cc scooters. The screen is said to improve aerodynamics as well as offer a little protection from the wind and rain. It’s made from 3mm-thick high-grade acrylic, measures 300mm high x 350mm wide, and is a straight swap for the OE screen. SRP is £83.10. VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com

Givi Canyon additions

Watsonian kit A NEW FITTING KIT FROM SIDECAR SPECIALISTS WATSONIAN ALLOWS the fitment of any of the Gloucestershire firm’s sidecar range to Kawasaki’s retro-style naked Z900RS. The kit features four powder coated tubular steel arms, with clamps that fit onto the bike’s frame and a subframe that fits under the engine to locate the lower front arm in the best position to set the axle lead, toe-in and lean-out for optimum stability. The kit costs £995 SRP. Watsonian Squire; 01386 700907; www.watsonian-squire.com AWARD WINNING CLEANING PRODUCTS

FEBRUARY 2024

GIVI HAS EXTENDED ITS CANYON RANGE OF SOFT ADVENTURE luggage with two new additions. The GRT723 is a 40-litre bag with a semi-rigid base that uses Givi’s Monokey attachment system, meaning it can be fitted onto a topbox baseplate for easy swaps between luggage systems. The bag has a roll-top closure and is equipped with plenty of MOLLE attachment points for adding extra bags. A waterproof inner liner bag provides protection for the contents, and it can be removed for easy carrying. SRP is £278. At the opposite end of the capacity spectrum, the GRT724 is a 12-litre heat-sealed saddle bag with a roll top closure that can be strapped to a side case or another Canyon bag using its Duraflex fastening straps. Two handles and a shoulder strap make it handy for off-bike use too. SRP is £101.50. Givi UK; 01327 706220; info@givi.co.uk

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Rev’It! Paramount GTX THE DEPTHS OF WINTER, WHEN ALL AROUND IS WET, COLD OR WINDY, or probably all three, is the time when the dedicated long-distance commuter or touring rider will appreciate a proper weatherproof outfit. The Rev’It! Paramount GTX is an all-in-one suit with adventure touring styling designed to take on the worst that mother nature can throw at it. The one-piece design is said to aid both weatherproofing (no awkward gaps for the rain to blow into) and comfort, as there is no “doubling up” of layers around the waist area. The ankle-to-collar Tizip Masterseal waterproof zip makes the suit easy to put on over base layers or regular clothing – just step in, zip up and ride off. The outer layer is a triple laminate Gore-Tex material which is waterproof and breathable, with plenty of stretch panels for improved levels of movement. Aquadefence waterproof ventilation allows airflow for warmer days, and protection is provided by CE level 2 protectors at the back, shoulders, elbows and knees, along with level 1 armour fitted at the hips. The Paramount GTX comes in sizes S-3XL in standard length, L-2XL in short length, and M-XL in long length, only in dark blue, for an SRP of £1599.99. Rev’It!; info@revitsport.com

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Keis UltraFlex jacket KEIS HAS LAUNCHED A NEW HEATED MID-LAYER jacket made from UltraFlex fabric, a mix of 85% Chinlon and 15% Spandex, to give a close, but not tight, fit for optimal efficiency and comfort. The Spandex provides a degree of flexibility to allow movement on the bike and to minimise bulk, while the lightweight Chinlon provides durability and a soft texture. It is also wicking, to keep sweat away from the body. Micro carbon fibre heating panels are fitted to the front, back and sleeves for all-round warmth, with an extra panel fitted in the collar for neck area comfort. In total, they offer 65W of heating power. The Keis UltraFlex comes in sizes 2XS-3XL for an SRP of £220, including a lifetime warranty on the elements and a two-year warranty on the rest of the jacket. Motohaus; 01256 704909; info@motohaus.com

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Sur-Ron Urban Pro 56 SUR-RON’S RANGE OF ELECTRIC POWERED lightweight bikes might be topping the sales charts, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement, so Urban Pro has brought out a range of aftermarket parts specifically for the battery-powered off-roaders. The range includes wheel kits, foot pegs, milled aluminium suspension parts, titanium axles and more, all anodised to bring a splash of colour. Prices start at £19.95 for the pegs and range up to £495.95 for a set of 21in and 19in wheels with a black rim, stainless spokes and an anodised hub. Urban Moto; 01522 589461; info@urbanmoto.co.uk

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Product news

Bagnaia

Ducati Limited Editions

YOU CAN TAKE THIS AS AN EXCUSE FOR BDN TO feature some very pretty, very expensive and very exclusive limited edition Ducatis, never likely to grace your showroom floor. Celebrating last season’s track successes, there are four race replica Panigale V4Rs, plus a singular Panigale V2. They are presented in replica liveries as used by racers Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martín, Marco Bezzecchi, Álvaro Bautista and Nicolò Bulega in various 2023 MotoGP, WorldSBK and WorldSSP events. As well as the special paint jobs, there is the rider’s autograph on the tank and a billet alloy steering plate laser engraved with the bike’s number in the series. The bikes are also equipped with the best bits from Ducati’s accessory catalogue, such as an Akrapovič end can, Brembo Stylema R brake calipers, Rizoma footpegs and a profusion of carbon fibre covers and guards. If racing replicas are all a bit loud and gauche, then the Ducati Diavel for Bentley is an altogether more refined and discreet affair. Limited to 500 units, the Diavel V4 base is treated to a Scarab green paint job, as used by Bentley, along with forged wheels in dark titanium. Some of the parts have been redesigned to echo Bentley styling cues, such as the side air intakes and rear extractor vents, front mudguard, fairing, and the single-seater tail piece. Obviously carbon fibre parts are used extensively, and there is an edition number engraved into the carbon cover for one of the cylinder heads. You can even get matching jet helmet and technical jacket to complete the look. Prices for all the bikes (if they are even still available) are definitely in the “sell a kidney” range. Ducati; 08456 718500; www.ducatiuk.com

Bulega

Bezzecchi

Bautista

Weise Axel 56 A CASUAL SOFTSHELL JACKET WITH URBAN STYLING, the Weise Axel is aimed at the commuter and city rider looking for something that provides the protection required without looking too “motorbike” when walking around. The outer 600D softshell material is backed up by a waterproof and windproof liner, and there is a 75gsm quilted thermal liner for use on colder days. A detachable hood provides some off-bike protection against the elements. CE level 2 armour is fitted at the shoulders and elbows, with a level 1 back protector also supplied, and there is a zip to connect to suitably-equipped jeans. The Axel comes in blue or green, in sizes S-5XL, for an SRP of £179.99. The Key Collection; 01179 719200; sales@thekeycollection.co.uk

Alloy top box

Martín

BMW Moreno Connect 3

NEW TO BIKE IT’S MOTORCYCLE LUGGAGE RANGE is a rigid aluminium top box with polymer corner bumpers to avoid damage. A robust and sturdy solution to carrying goods on a bike, whether adventuring across Australia or delivering parcels in Piccadilly, the box is available in 45-litre and 65-litre sizes and comes complete with a universal mounting plate with a locking quick release buckle and a padded leather-effect liner for insulating and protecting any contents. The cases all come in a black finish, at £199.99 SRP for the smaller size and £249.99 for the larger. Bike It; 02380 658700; tradesales@bikeit.co.uk

BMW’S CLOTHING RANGE HAS BEEN EXTENDED WITH THE addition of a new GoreTex jacket. The Moreno Connect combines all-weather functionality alongside typical BMW understated styling, with a similarly typical high-end price tag. The outer shell is a three-layer laminate for waterproofness, with lots of adjustment and a connection zip for trousers, while inside there is a built-in electric heated vest, along with active lighting on the back and sleeves to aid visibility which is controlled via a smartphone app. Impact protection is provided by NP2 armour at the shoulders and elbows, along with an NP Pro back protector. It only comes in black, in sizes 46 to 66, for an SRP of £1430. BMW Motorrad; www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk AWARD WINNING CLEANING PRODUCTS

FEBRUARY 2024

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Product news

Brake Disc Lock Lexmoto RSS125 SCRAMBLER-STYLE BIKES ARE ALL the rage amongst the premium manufacturers at the moment, with high-end machines offering old-school looks finding favour with urban bikers. So what about the more budget-conscious CBT or commuter rider looking for something with a soupçon of style? That where Lexmoto’s new RSS125 Scrambler comes in, offering chunky neo-retro styling and trendy matt black paintwork in an A1 licence friendly capacity. The liquid-cooled motor provides a healthy 14hp to give a top speed of 69mph and an average fuel consumption of 90mpg. To bring it up-to-date, there is a 5in TFT dash, LED lighting all round and a brake light incorporated into the seat. OTR price is £2599.99. Lexmoto; 0844 567 8887; sales@llexeter.co.uk

GRANIT™ Detecto XPlus 8077

VE Sprint rack 3 NEW FROM VE IS A SPRINT LUGGAGE rack to fit behind the seat of Vespa GTS iGET125 and GTS300 HPE models from 2018 onwards. It comes in a choice of polished chrome for an SRP of £61.50, or matt black for an SRP of £59, with fittings included. VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com

Made in Germany

Trident hugger CLAIMING IT TO BE FIRST ON THE market, Pyramid Plastics has designed a new rear hugger for Triumph’s popular mid-capacity roadster, the Trident 660. The hugger fits all models from 2021 to the present, and is designed to fill the space between the OEM hugger and the OEM spray guard, offering extra protection to both rider and machine. It’s made from 3.5mm ABS plastic and comes in a matt black finish to match the OEM guards. SRP is £49.99. Pyramid Plastics; 01427 677990; sales@pyramid-plastics.co.uk

The alarm function with 3D position detection reacts sensitively to break-in attempts with 100dB. An automatic brake disc detection system knows exactly when the lock is sitting on the disc to secure your bike.

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Product news Oxford Atlas straps 45 THE NEW OXFORD ATLAS STRAPS ARE one of those simple yet effective accessories that you can’t believe aren’t more commonly used. A webbing strap, looped at one end, with either quick-release clips or a stainless steel G-hook at the opposite end, the crucial element is a stretchy section of the strap, which keeps everything under tension so straps can’t work loose. They come in 17mm or 26mm widths, and in 1.2m or 2.0m lengths, with a tensile strength of up to 80kg. Available in black, asphalt or lichen colours at prices from £14.99 to £24.99 SRP per pair. Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

Furygan Icetrack Lady FURYGAN SAYS THAT ITS ICETRACK Lady jacket combines the thermal and comfort characteristics of a down jacket with the protection and benefits of a motorcycling jacket, providing a stylish look for yearround biking. There’s a removable thermal liner, and a silver mesh bonded waterproof and breathable membrane keeps the wearer dry. For impact protection ultra-thin D3O Ghost armour is fitted at the shoulders and elbows, with a pocket ready for an optional back protector. It comes in a choice of black or burgundy, in sizes S-2XL for an SRP of £239.99. Furygan UK; 01489 582707; www.furygan.co.uk

R&G paddock stands 3 R&G HAS LAUNCHED A NEW RANGE OF PADDOCK STANDS for workshop use. The stands are made from lightweight powder-coated tubular steel and feature large diameter wheels for easier manoeuvrability. Each stand can support up to 200kg and there are several options to suit different lifting requirements. For lifting at the front the choice is between one that slots into the underside of the fork legs or a stand that fits into the headstock. At the rear there are options to suit double-sided or single-sided swingarms. SRPs start from £66.99. R&G; 01420 89007; info@rg-racing.com AWARD WINNING CLEANING PRODUCTS

FEBRUARY 2024

Airoh Commander 2 A COMPREHENSIVE UPDATE HAS been bestowed on Airoh’s adventure style Commander helmet to bring it bang-up-to-date in terms of safety and features. Obviously, it is now ECE 22.06 approved, but other safety improvements include the introduction of ASN (Airoh Sliding Net) and AEFR (Airoh Emergency Fast Release), which reduce force transmitted to the user in case of impact and allow fast removal of cheek pads by emergency responders. The shell comes in three sizes and in a choice of composite carbon or full 6K carbon, which further reduces weight, and has been reshaped to reduce buffeting and improve ventilation efficiency. The visor is an extra-wide vision affair fitted with a Pinlock 120XLT, backed up by a drop-down sun visor. Inside is a removable and washable liner using Coolmax fabric, which is hypo-allergenic and breathable. The Commander 2 comes in sizes XS to 3XL in a huge range of solid colour and graphics, prices start from £395.99 SRP. Bike It; 02380 658700; tradesales@bikeit.co.uk

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Rev’It! Dirt Series 6 DIRT IS DUTCH BRAND REV’IT!’S DEDICATED MODULAR OFF-ROAD clothing range, now with a number of new additions in the form of two jackets, new pants and some gloves. The Component 2 H2O is a waterproof jacket which comes in a choice of three colours – aubergine, black or brown – and is made with ripstop fabric and Cordura for abrasion resistance, removable CE level 1 armour and a detachable hood for its £419.99 SRP. The Continent jacket is made with windproof softshell and Cordura and can be converted from jacket to gilet by removing the zip-off sleeves. It comes in black or grey for £249. New Territory pants Component 2 H2O are made from highlyventilating mesh with Cordura ripstop reinforcement and embossed leather in Continent crucial areas, and come with CE level 1 armour at the hips and knees for their £229.99 SRP. Lastly, Continent gloves are a lightweight weather resistant design made from microfibre E-touch material which is said to improve feel and flexibility. In case of a spill there is a flexible TPR knuckle protector and memory foam padding. They come in black grey or black/ orange for an SRP of Continent £59.99.

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