British Dealer News June 2023

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HEAD OF CONTENT

Andy Mayo: editorial@dealernews.co.uk

FINANCIAL EDITOR

Roger Willis: editorial@dealernews.co.uk

PRODUCTS EDITOR/DESIGNER

Colin Williams: design@dealernews.co.uk

COMMERCIAL CONTENT MANAGER

Maurice Knuckey: creative@dealernews.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Roger Willis; Dan Sager; Alan Dowds; Rick Kemp; Adam Bernstein; Brian Crichton

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Mark Mayo: accounts@dealernews.co.uk

ADVERTISING

Alison Payne: tel 07595 219093 Paul Baggott: tel 07831 863837 adsales@dealernews.co.uk

CIRCULATION circulation@dealernews.co.uk

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

Ducati expands down South

The march of high-end solus Ducati stores continues apace, with Dorset’s first Ducati-only dealership opening in Wimborne. The new Ducati Bournemouth store covers both Ducati and Ducati Scrambler brands at its fully renovated 7000sq.ft premises which include a high-end workshop facility with the usual showroom and retail spaces. Fans at the opening event on 30 April were treated to pizza and coffee while watching the Spanish MotoGP round with top WSBK racer Chaz Davies as a special guest.

Fabrizio Cazzoli, Ducati UK MD, said, “Today we are here in Dorset for the opening of our brand new store, Ducati Bournemouth. With the highest standards in corporate identity and people quality, there is no better way to bring Ducati values of style, sophistication and performance to the UK. I would like to sincerely thank Mark Langford and John Piper of Breeze for their outstanding work.”

Mark Langford, MD of Breeze Motor Group, which owns Ducati Bournemouth, said, “We’re

excited to have finally opened Ducati Bournemouth for the start of the season. We’d like to thank everyone for their patience

and support – we can’t wait to welcome you through the doors and are confident you’ll agree it’s been worth the wait!”

Boutique car firm signs Norton as first bike brand

AS PART OF ITS RETAIL EXPANSION, NORTON has become the first motorcycle brand to be sold by the Oakmere Motor Group. The V4 SV and Commando models go on show alongside Morgan, Caterham and Lotus cars at the firm’s Cheshire

rich heritage and exciting new products. From the outset, it was clear Norton shared our values and a passion for quality, so we are delighted that we are now a Norton sales partner.”

Christian Gladwell, CCO at Norton

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BIKETRAC

BIKETRAC IS THE LATEST TO BOOST ITS MENTAL health resilience with a new mental health first aider (MHFA) programme. The security and tracker firm’s business development manager Julie Emmitt has completed a course with the Mental Health Motorbike charity.

MHFA are similar to normal first aiders – they offer support in a crisis while professional medical help is sought. “I have found that riding my bike has helped me through some of the tougher times in life,” said Emmitt, “so I jumped at the chance to become a mental health first aider, to allow me to give something back and support others in the biking community.”

BS BATTERY

FRENCH BIKE BATTERY MAKER BS BATTERY is upping its profile with a new sponsorship deal in MotoGP. Both Aprilia riders, Maverick Vinales and Aleix Espargaro, will carry the logo on their Aprilia RS-GP racebikes. Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO, said, “We are proud to have a partner like BS Battery at our side. A collaboration that stems from our enthusiasm and common values of innovation, technology and competition.”

Bennetts new kit performance awards scheme

Top bike insurer Bennetts, has long been expanding its remit via its Bikesocial editorial arm, and now it seems to be looking to develop its brand presence further outside insurance, with a new High Performance Award scheme, which it claims, will help riders identify the best protective riding gear.

PYRAMID RACING

BRITISH BODYWORK SPECIALIST PYRAMID is sponsoring the 44Teeth YouTube team in the BMW F900R Cup race series. The one-make championship runs in BSB, and the 44Teeth team of Al Fagan, Chris Eades and Mike Booth are pushing hard. “We’re thrilled to be the title sponsor for such a talented team,” said Adam Bowser, Pyramid MD. “This is a great opportunity for us to further our reach and showcase our products to the motorcycling community whilst also working more closely with the guys at 44Teeth.”

MICHELIN

THE NEW 2023 CONTROL MICHELIN SLICKS FOR the MotoE series have a lot of recycled and sustainable material in them – 34% in the front hoop and 52% in the rear. The recycled material is scrap steel for the cords and used car and truck tyre rubber, while the sustainable material includes natural latex rubber, sunflower oil, pine resin and – amazingly enough – orange and lemon peel. It’s part of the firm’s plan to make its entire production sustainable by 2050.

NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

THE NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM HAS announced the winner of its 2022/23 winter raffle and also revealed the prize for its summer competition. Gary Cropper of Leicester won the first prize, a 2023 BSA 650 Gold Star, with Gordon Winsor of Devon snapping up the second prize, a 1968 BSA Bantam Bushman 175cc. The prize for the summer raffle is an immaculate 1974 Norton Commando 850, complete with AP Lockheed front brake disc conversion. Tickets and more info from the museum: www.thenmm.co.uk

According to Bikesocial consumer editor John Milbank, “the new scheme will give a Gold award to garments that meet EN17092 AAA, gloves that are Level 2 and boots that are Levels 1/2/2/2 or 2/2/2/2. Platinum and Diamond awards are available for garments that meet EN13595 Level 1 or 2 respectively, or –as this standard has now been withdrawn – garments that have had a small amount of testing done in addition to EN17092 in order to prove their higher performance.

“We’ve already got submissions coming in, which use a Terms document and require links to the Declaration of Conformity and copies of the test certificates (though these aren’t made

public). We don’t charge anything for it, and we’re delighted with how many products are appearing so quickly.”

As Milbank explains, the scheme should simplify the minefield of acronyms and standards on protective riding kit labels. “Ultimately, the only real difference between motorcycle clothing and anything you could buy at a hiking shop is protection, and as so many riders consider the protective performance of the protective kit they’re buying, the award scheme is there to help

Royal Enfield signs up CA Auto Finance

THEY’RE ALREADY competitively priced, but Royal Enfield is now looking to help more people get on to its bikes, with a new consumer credit deal signed with CA Auto Finance. The finance deals will be available across the whole range – from the 350 Classic, HNTR and Meteor singles, through the Himalayan and Scram 411 models, up to the 650 Interceptor, Continental GT and Super Meteor twins. Deals will start from as little as £49.99 a month for a new HNTR 350.

George Cheeseman, UK country manager, said, “It’s an incredibly exciting time for Royal Enfield as we enter a

new chapter of operating our own wholly owned subsidiary with the distribution and direct network infrastructure going live on 1 May 2023. Our mantra is simple: to provide unrivalled accessibility to quality motorcycles for our customers. We are passionate about enabling anyone who wants to own a Royal Enfield, to be able to do so.

“We have searched hard for the ideal finance partner and are delighted that CA Auto Finance shares our dedication to providing market-leading affordability and quality customer experience.”

www.royalenfield.com/uk

them if they want. With four different standards to understand, and multiple levels, the HighPerformance Award simplifies the protective performance, leaving the buyer to choose based on comfort, features and price.”

It’s an interesting project –up till now, RiDE magazine has pretty much had the field to itself in terms of editorial schemes for independent product rating marks. There’s more info on the scheme on the Bennetts website: www.bennetts.co.uk/highperformance

George Cheeseman (right), UK country manager, Royal Enfield UK and Christian Gorton, senior markeing manager, CA Auto Finance

Older readers may well remember the 2007 launch of the Department for Transport’s SHARP helmet rating scheme. It initially caused some consternation when some quite pricey brands found themselves with a lower rating on the five-star scale than some much cheaper lids. After consultation with the trade, the scheme settled down, and SHARP became an accepted part of the retail landscape. Helmets were tested according to the SHARP protocol; they were then given a score published on the government-backed website. A publicity campaign ran alongside, telling riders to check the rating on a lid before buying it, aiming to improve safety by encouraging the purchase of lids with higher SHARP safety ratings.

It’s fair to say that SHARP has become a bit anonymous in recent years. It’s still in operation, but with much less in the way of PR or advertising campaigns. Budgets were cut drastically across government from 2010 on, and SHARP was an easy target.

Now though, the scheme is undergoing a revamp. SHARP 2025 is the title of a new project undertaken by the DfT with the help of the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), which will both update the testing protocols and launch a new publicity campaign to get the rating scheme back into bikers’ minds. As the name suggests, it aims to have the revamped scheme in place for 2025.

Dr Phil Martin is head of transport safety at TRL, and one of the leading minds behind the revamp, and has worked previously on the safety of vulnerable road users (including motorcyclists). His PhD was focused on the biomechanics of injury, particularly head and thorax. He knows a lot about helmets and how they work.

“I was still a fresh-faced undergraduate when SHARP launched! But the ECE 22.06 regulations have accelerated the need to re-look at SHARP, re-examine the evidence base used for the test protocols, and reassess whether they are still fit for purpose. Do they still evaluate the safety of motorcycle helmets above and beyond regulatory requirements? That’s the whole purpose of SHARP.”

The aim is to give consumers more information. The latest ECE 22.06 helmets are all safe – but SHARP wants to show how they perform compared to each other above that standard.

“For the ECE 22.06 requirements, you have

SHARP re-booted

to test a motorcycle helmet by dropping it from a particular height. SHARP goes further and increases that energy, the impact speeds, and then you can see how helmets perform against each other.”

So, how does SHARP come up with the higher testing impact speeds? “Those speeds are based on the evidence we have about the speeds that motorcyclist helmets are struck during collisions, so it’s based on accident data. Ultimately there is a need for the SHARP protocol to change, including things like an impact against angled anvils to align with ECE 22.06, and we also need to look at rotational injuries and the injury risk compared between different helmets.”

Martin also told BDN about some interesting work on digital modelling –simulating motorcycle crashes, to learn more about the forces experienced by a rider in a bike crash. “There are simulations recreating collisions where, if you’re simulating it in a computational environment, you can get a lot more information about head impact speeds and angles. A lot of research is carried out in that field that informs SHARP and the upgrade of the protocols.”

Of course, it doesn’t matter how good

SHARP is if riders aren’t aware of it or don’t care about it. And the job of publicising and promoting SHARP 2025 is almost as big as revising the test protocols. It’s a problem Phil Martin is aware of: “There’s a real acceptance that a big part of SHARP 2025 is to engage with consumers right from the moment they first make the decision to even want to ride a bike. So, when they apply for a provisional license, they get information that tells them to consider the helmet’s safety when they buy their first one, right through to advanced rider courses. SHARP will take every opportunity to engage with consumers, industry, and riders.”

The DfT and TRL are engaging with the industry, riders’ rights groups and other stakeholders as part of the SHARP 2025 revamp. “We’ve been in talks with the MCIA,” said Martin. “They see the value in it in terms of the benefit to society, consumers knowing how their helmets perform, and that being part of the buying decision process, but the MCIA naturally wants that to be as objective as possible and they will have a big part to play in terms of contributing to the development of those protocols.”

Three-year warranty from Mash Motorcycles

FRENCH RETRO-BIKE SPECIALIST

Mash Motorcycles has launched a comprehensive new three-year warranty to cover its range of bikes. The new warranty covers both parts and labour, and has unlimited mileage coverage, making it more inclusive than many of its competitors.

The warranty activates on the date of vehicle handover by the dealer and covers all market-compliant motorcycles, from 50-650cc sold by the official Mash importer and

their authorised dealers.

“For more than a decade, Mash Motorcycles has been developing vehicles with passion and high standards to meet new market trends,” says Jean-Michel

Paquient, general manager of SIMA (manufacturer of Mash Motorcycles). “It was therefore natural for us to be able to offer our future customers a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.”

Motomondo 01429 650555

uksales@motomondo.com

BMW is celebrating 100 years of motorcycle production this year, and the manufacturer invited BDN to Munich to see a couple of new bikes while taking in a new ‘100 Years’ exhibition at the firm’s corporate museum, based at the famous BMW ‘Four Cylinder’ HQ near the Olympic Park. The boss of BMW Motorrad, Dr Markus Schramm, was there, and he answered our questions on the current state of play for the brand.

First up was a tour of the new centenary exhibition. The BMW Museum has a central bowl structure, with a winding pathway up to the main level, and there are exhibits set up all the way along. Visitors get a taste of the firm’s early two-wheeled history, with the first Boxer engine – the 6bhp M2B15 from the R32 – on show alongside the very latest 136bhp R1250 Shiftcam motor. Milestone machines, like the R37, the R5, the R75/5, R90 S, R80 G/S, S1000 RR and more, are on show, and there

NEW MODELS

BMW hits three figures

are even super rare prototypes like the desmodromic-valved 996cc R1 superbike from 1992 and the artdeco styled 1937 R7.

The 100 Years showcase also looks at the important figures in the firm’s history, from Max Friz,

as British architect Elspeth Beard who circled the globe in 1982 on an R60/6.

Open until next May; the 100 Years exhibition is well worth a look. Opening times are Tues-Sun 10am-6pm, and entry is €10.

firm managed to achieve record sales of almost 203,000 bikes last year, with Covid, semiconductor and logistic woes, and a war in Europe all having an effect.

who designed the first Boxer, through to German designer Hans Muth who was behind the R90 S and R100 RS. BMW’s competition heroes also get a mention, with shrines to desert race aces Gaston Rahier and Hubert Auriol, plus road race legends including Georg Meier and Michael Dunlop. BMW also tips its hat to the pioneer adventure tourers who set out on BMW bikes back in the day, such

BMW SHOWED OFF TWO BRAND NEW models at its 100 Years event. First is a new retro bagger version of the massive R18 cruiser called the Roctane. It marries up the basic dynamic package of the R18 – 91bhp 1802cc Boxer, steel tube frame, shaft drive – with a new 21in custom front wheel, built-in swoopy panniers, footboards and an R5-style headlight surround. Priced at £22k, it looks very striking but will undoubtedly be a niche seller in the UK. More mainstream was the next reveal –the new R12 nineT. The confusing name was explained as a rebrand of BMW’s 1200cc heritage line-up to fit in below the R18 family – expect a range of R12 models next year based around this new platform. The air/oil-cooled engine is apparently all-new despite looking very similar to the current ‘oilhead’ R nineT unit,

DR MARKUS SCHRAMM

A veteran of BMW, Dr Markus Schramm has been at the firm since 1991, and took over as head of BMW Motorrad in 2018. The keen motorcyclist and marathon runner spoke to BDN at the special 100 Year exhibition opening and gave an update on where BMW is now and how it’s coped with the recent crises.

We started by asking how the

and it claims to have better performance and improved future emissions compliance while offering more support for the latest high-tech digital systems.

This next-generation R nineT replacement will also be even more customisable, with owners able to swap out parts like the dual-analogue clock pods for a trick TFT LCD screen, as well as the usual seat, wheels, exhaust and other more cosmetic customising options. The new bike will also be compatible with BMW’s smartphone apps, allowing retro fans to buy a bike that matches their style while also getting the modern tech common across the rest of the BMW range.

The new R12 nineT we saw was a preproduction prototype: the firm is launching it as a 2024 model and will release more info later this year.

“The secret behind us is the strength of the brand, which we’ve invested heavily in for the past five years,” said Schramm. “Yes, certainly Covid was a challenge for us. Can you imagine that we had to shut down our plant for six weeks, and the first day after we opened up again, we had to start production of the R18? At the same time, parallel to the Covid situation, we had significant challenges with semiconductors. We set up our own task force linked to the car side and managed much better than the car industry.”

And Schramm gave a concrete example of the practical impacts of the war in Ukraine. “75% of our wiring harnesses are produced in Ukraine. So, one day [when the war began in February 2022], there were no harnesses… In record time,

Developments in carbon-neutral e-fuels may help bikes escape the proposed ban on petrol and diesel engines for cars in the EU from 2035

R12 nineT

R18 Roctane

Dr Markus Schramm

we built up parallel production in India, Thailand and South Africa. But four weeks after we launched the first production in Thailand, the women in the Ukrainian plant (harness production staff are 100% women) were back on two shifts. Can you imagine, these women were sending their father or son or husband to war, and they came back to shift operation after four weeks?

“We went immediately back to Ukraine, and we said you are our partner, and now they are back to the same volume as before the war, and we are very proud that we could support them.”

Schramm spoke about BMW’s global successes next. “For us, the fastest growing market in 2022 was India, followed by China. So especially in Asia, we are very successful. We always joke that we have a ‘20,000 Club’, which means 20,000 bikes are sold in a country. We did this for some years in France and in Germany for a long time. But now China is joining the club. Italy wants to join and the US is joining the club.”

What about the UK? “The UK is far away – the UK needs to push to join the 10,000 club! But this is certainly a very good indication that our success is not

built on one region. It’s really spread over the world.”

Schramm was also, perhaps surprisingly, quite bullish about the prospects for future internal combustion engines in motorcycles while also praising BMW’s efforts on electric power. He claimed that its CE 04 scooter had more than 80% of the global market for over-11kW batterypowered bikes in the first quarter of 2023 while accepting the bike world is some way behind in electric acceptance. “Compared to cars, we are at least ten years behind in terms of acceptance, in terms of getting customers by emotional means, not regulation. But it comes! Last year 2.5% of our retail sales were electric and the car side was there ten years ago. This year we’ve got 5%.”

But the good doctor also pointed out that bikes produce a tiny amount of CO2 in Europe –just 0.3%. And he suggested that this, alongside developments in carbon-neutral e-fuels, may help bikes escape the proposed ban on petrol and diesel engines for cars in the EU from 2035.

“At the end of the day, we have 0.3% of the CO2 emissions in Europe, so we don’t need too much lobbying, and also, we are under the radar. Two-wheelers were always excluded from the European Commission’s Green Deal and potential ICE ban. It was always mentioned as only cars.”

Could the UK government take this on board as part of its consultation on cutting carbon emissions? It would be a big help to the industry if it did.

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YAMAHA

THE THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN the Two Wheels for Life charity and Yamaha Europe enters its second year, with the donation of 16 Yamaha AG100 bikes for the Riders for Health project in the Republic of The Gambia. The project is also raising funds for health projects in Africa, with auctions for WSBK and MXGP tickets and sponsorship of the Yamaha Ténéré world rally raid team.

HENRY COLE RETURNS TO TV

HENRY COLE IS BACK WITH HIS SHED AND Buried TV programme. The new series, featuring Cole alongside Allen Millyard and other helpers, has ten new episodes, broadcast on Tuesday nights at 9pm from 23 May on the Quest channel. And Henry Cole is back on ITV4 as well, with his Motorbike Show. Allen Millyard is the straight man once again, and the new series features all eras and styles of motorcycling, from pre-war bikes at the famous Banbury Run to the latest, high-end £60,000 Bimotas. Plus, the 75thanniversary celebrations of the BSA Bantam, there’s also some slow fun on Fizzies. Six new hour-long episodes are broadcast on ITV4 weekly, starting on 12 June at 9pm.

Ducatisti to Scrambleristi

Ducati moved from the Gherkin in the City of London to the Outernet art/exhibition space in Soho for its latest glitzy London presentation – this time focusing on the new Scrambler lineup. A host of young, attractive, brand-friendly guests sampled bespoke cocktails and boogied to a selection of modern rhythmic beats, as Ducati presented the updated 2023 models in the 800cc retro V-twin roadster range.

ADVENTURE BIKE RIDER FESTIVAL

KIWI OFF-ROAD LEGEND CHRIS BIRCH, WILL be staring at the Adventure Bike Rider festival on 23-25 June. Birch will be flying in from New Zealand, courtesy of sponsor Kriega, to talk about his experiences and show off his amazing skills on the Adventure Park riding trail. www.abrfestival.com

Members of the not at all young or attractive motorcycle press were also in attendance, spoiling the vibe a little. So BDN got the chance for a chat with a very senior member of Ducati’s management team – Patrizia Cianetti. Cianetti is the marketing and communications director of Ducati Motor Holding and she has been at the firm since 2000.

We started off by talking about the Ducati Scrambler sub-brand. Launched in 2015, it was seen by some as an attempt to do the same job as the MINI did for BMW: give the firm a whole new outlet for its technology and opening up a different market. For Scrambler, that appeared to mean younger, perhaps less affluent, maybe more novice riders and women – people who wouldn’t necessarily think of a Ducati as their first big bike.

Has it turned out that way?

Cianetti thinks so. “Scrambler has always been a model able to talk to a wide type of riders, age, riding competencies, male, female. It’s also the range with the biggest percentage of female riders in the Ducati family and this makes a lot of sense since women are half of the world!”

And she’s keen to stress that the new 2023 bikes are set to continue this. “Of course, the evolution of this new generation of

Scrambler is meant to talk more to the younger generation: all the different colours, customisation, opportunities for self-expression. The way we are presenting and talking to people, the idea of evolving the Scrambler, keeping the same soul, the same attitude and personality, but bringing a contemporary style and more technology, like the LED lights, TFT dashboard, electronics, ABS. But also a new riding experience: smoother, more dynamic and also more fun.”

terms of product and the riding experience. So we introduce probably the level of fun and excitement as needed, also to talk better to younger generations.”

CIanetti bristles a little when we ask if there will be more ‘retro’ bikes from the company. “We don’t like to call it retro, but when we presented the first Scrambler in 2015, the idea was to keep the same style and values but with a contemporary interpretation. If you compare it with the other bikes in the segment, the

She insists that Scramblers aren’t only for novices, though. “Scrambler is probably the model in the whole Ducati family that is able to talk to the very widest audience. We have Panigale riders that also have a Scrambler in their garage. But you may only have a 35kW [A2 licence] Scrambler, so it’s really wide. And then, of course, we also have riders who maybe have had a license but have not been riding for many years, and they decide to come back. The Scrambler is there with technology that is contemporary, safe and modern, with rider modes, traction control etc.”

Does Ducati have to be careful that the Scrambler doesn’t cannibalise the main range – of the Monster, say? “We say that Scrambler is more of an addition [to the Monster], and it is really complementary to Ducati, not only in terms of brand and communication codes but also in

Scrambler looks like a completely modern bike.”

Could Ducati move back into the 1970s, with perhaps a reboot of something like the original 1975 900 Supersport?

“We love to take inspiration from the past in general, so from time to time, we visit our museums with the designers from the Centro Stile [Ducati’s design centre]. We have an idea, like what happened with the DesertX, and then you may define it as retro, but it’s not!”

A straight retro copy of an old bike would be too simple, then? “We don’t like normally to copy, but when there is both the inspiration and the opportunity and we believe that it will be a fantastic Ducati, then we try to create a new bike that takes inspiration and elements from our history, it’s not just copying.”

Turning to the UK bike market in general – how important is it to Ducati? “You know, this event is

It was seen by some as an attempt to do the same job as the MINI did for BMW: give the firm a whole new outlet for its technology and opening up a different market

Electric bike maker Maeving’s co-founders Will Stirrup and Seb Inglis-Jones took to the streets of London during the King’s coronation procession last month, entertaining the crowds on their British-built motorcycles. Riding a pair of Maeving RM1s, the bosses toured central London to celebrate the coronation. It’s perhaps surprising they weren’t arrested, with their Union Jack jumpsuits, Union Jack capes and hats (fastened to their helmets), tooting Kazoos as they went!

will happen in Rome, Munich, Madrid and Paris, and London is the first. Recently we ran the first Live event from Ducati London, so it’s an incredibly important market for us. It’s a country in which the motorcycle culture is so much a part of the entire culture, but there are also plenty of icons and great riders.”

How does the firm do its marketing differently in the UK? “I think we try always to be true to ourselves, following our values and our mission. Everything we do is guided by science, sophistication, performance, to produce unforgettable and exceptional experiences around our motorcycles. So I think this is the founding base of all the marketing and communication activity we do, and here it’s the same.

“Of course, we want to enlarge maybe the lifestyle and cool side of riding a Ducati. Not only on the race track but also to develop even further, in the touring adventure segment.”

Fabrizio Cazzoli, Ducati UK MD, adds: “We are present at all the main happenings of the motorcycle industry; you see us at the NEC, ExCeL, and ABR. And of course, it needs to be tailormade because the audience is slightly different, nevertheless, without compromising our DNA or who we are.”

Does Ducati’s recent massive race success in MotoGP and WSBK – winning both titles last year – help with the basics of selling Scramblers day to day? Patrizia Cianetti thinks so. “It helps a lot. It’s a big stage where we put on a great show for our Ducatisti. And of course, when you win

everything, it is a nicer show! For us, the racing environment is, first of all, the best possible technological laboratory for moving our technology into the production series. But it is also an opportunity to entertain and to engage with Ducatisti, and we even give an opportunity to [Panigale V4] Superleggera owners to ride the MotoGP bikes; we’re the only brand to do that. And we have a lot of Scrambleristi going to the events – it’s not the case if you like Scrambler you don’t like racing, and so for us, it’s a very wide opportunity.”

We round off our chat by asking what changes Cianetti has seen in the past 23 years. “Yes, I am part of the furniture! When I started in 2000, the Texas Pacific Group owned the company, and there have been incredibly big steps forward. The company really is brand-new in every part: product, processes, organisation, technologies, size, everything. And we are also celebrating ten years of CEO Claudio Domenicali, and I think he gave a strong push in the right direction to make Ducati as big, as strong, and I would say trustworthy as it is now compared to the past.”

How has the Volkswagen Audi Group takeover changed things? “The acquisition from the Volkswagen group has been incredibly positive. Because they trust us, they leave us be. We share objectives and discuss strategies, but they respect us. And when they started the relationship, they said, ‘Ducati remains Ducati,’ and the most important thing is that all the company’s earnings stay in the company. That allows us to invest more, and that allows us to develop the product and develop the company itself.”

Patrizia Cianetti

Matter of interest

Three prime ministers and five chancellors since the last general election in 2019 and it is arguable that the country has not bettered itself in nearly four years. Granted we survived Covid which damaged countless economies around the world. Then there was Brexit which, as Richard Hughes, the head of the government’s independent Office of Budget Responsibility, noted at the end of March, caused a 4% drop in GDP compared to where the UK would have been if it were still in the European Union.

Of course, it was inevitable that in doling out billions of Covid cash that taxation would have to rise to repay the debt that the state took on. Indeed, from the government’s point of view, and that of business and citizens too, low interest rates are ideal since debt – public and private – would cost less to service. Equally though, high inflation eats away at the value of government debt so what the government really wants we can only guess at.

However, with rising inflation, that was meant to be ‘transitory’ but which became more engrained, interest rates were going to rise.

But what no one counted on was the clusterf**k that was the imperfect interaction of short-term prime minister Liz Truss – who left office faster than a well stored onion spoils, and her chancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng. Their attempts to restart the economy may have been well intentioned but were ill-thought out and uncosted. And the market spoke leading to interest rates that were forced up faster than expected causing untold misery and financial pain, and the Bank of England being forced into more bond buying to maintain a price floor.

It’s fair to say that Truss and Kwarteng’s actions didn’t accelerate the rise in interest rates and taxation, but rather, poured accelerant on. (It should be said that the Bank actually made £3.5bn profit on buying the bonds low and then selling them in a stronger market).

There were warnings late last year of serious recession. In fact, the British Chambers of Commerce was one organisation that warned in December 2022 that recession could last for five quarters and into 2024.

when they fell to an all-time low of 0.10%.

No one likes high interest rates and there are many who are suffering rising mortgage payments on large piles of debt. Partly they had no choice, but to borrow large sums if they wanted to buy property in an overheated market. But equally, there are a number of households that overspent in many areas –holidays or on PCP-funded vehicles – who had forgotten the impact and risk of higher interest rates more akin to the norm.

All of this aside, it appears that the UK has dodged the bullet and won’t enter into recession. That’s good. But the economy isn’t bubbling away either. The most recent interest rate rise –to 4.5% in May – was a bit of a shock since most expected inflation to head below 10%. But rising fuel and food prices put paid to that.

As for the future, the expectation is that rates will fall. Capital Economics reckons that the base rate will be cut to 3% at the end of 2024 and to 2.5% by the end of 2025.

Subsequent to a new government, Jeremy Hunt was brought in by Rishi Sunak to be a safe pair of hands. He did stabilise the ship by halting virtually all of the Truss government’s economic plans.

With Hunt’s autumn statement and March 2023 budget, taxation is now at its highest since the Second World War. Interest rates too are at a 14-year peak. But it shouldn’t be forgotten that since the start of the millennium, they’ve hovered around 5%. They only dipped below the current 4.25% in five quarters before the financial crash of 2008

ComfortAir gets to the bottom of long-distance rider discomfort

IT’S PROBABLY ONE OF THE MOST UNLIKELY scientific research programmes that we’ve seen at BDN. But the maker of ComfortAir bike seat air cushions has commissioned a specialist laboratory to work out what causes long-distance pain and discomfort to riders.

The lab used special ‘rear-end’ pressure mapping equipment to compare a rider on a standard bike seat with the same rider on the same bike with a ComfortAir seat cushion. And the results are actually pretty interesting. According to the researchers, many bikes put riders in unnatural sitting positions, putting too much pressure on

the lower torso and buttocks. That reduces blood flow and compresses nerves, causing muscles to become fatigued and sore. The higher pressures also means more heat and sweat, further increasing muscle pain and cramp.

The pressure mapping obtained from the experiments showed that the ComfortAir cushion does help to counteract these three issues: it evenly distributes the rider’s weight, eliminating painful pressure points on the pelvis and spine, protects against shocks and dampens vibration while helping blood circulation. Space between the air cells is also shaped to encourage airflow under the

High interest rates mean that the cost of borrowing money to purchase a higher-value ticket item increases, making the overall cost of ownership more prohibitive. Many buyers will hold off purchasing or opt for a cheaper or second-hand alternative model.

Interest rates can also have an impact on the length of financing terms. Buyers may opt for shorter loan terms when interest rates are high to avoid paying more over time. This can result in higher monthly payments, which may deter some buyers. As interest rates continue to fluctuate, it will be important for the motorcycle industry to stay attuned to changes in buyer behaviours and adapt accordingly.

rider’s behind, reducing the risk of ‘hot-spots’.

ComfortAir’s Wayne Harrison said, “We’re really encouraged by the results, which reinforced just how effective our seat cushions can be in reducing serious discomfort on longer rides. We definitely won’t be sitting on these results, we’ll be using the data to inform the development of the next generation of ComfortAir.”

It’s fair to say that Truss and Kwarteng’s actions didn’t accelerate the rise in interest rates and taxation, but rather, poured accelerant on

Hackney bike parking fiasco continues

THE SCRUTINY COMMITTEE OF Hackney Council has refused to intervene in the London borough’s massive increase in motorcycle parking charges. The committee met on 24 April to hear evidence from Hackney residents, workers and carers about the disproportionately high parking charge increases – up to £50 a week – and how they would cripple predominately low-paid people in the area. But the majority of Labour councillors then voted to take no further action, with no explanation, despite the attempts of both Green and Conservative councillors.

A Save London Motorcycling spokesperson said: “We, alongside thousands of others, do not accept this result. The council has a responsibility to make policy that is evidence-based and to monitor the impact of its policies on those who will be affected most. Some of the lowest-paid workers and most vulnerable Hackney residents will suffer extreme hardship as a direct result. Yesterday’s charade of scrutiny laid bare the utter farce which is governance in Hackney today. The panel’s questions clearly revealed fundamental flaws in the policy, but still councillors voted to blindly press ahead with completely

unprecedented and devastating charges without any idea what the impacts will be.

“After spending more than an hour discussing the cost of living crisis, foodbank use and the devastating impact of a £10 a week benefit cut, in the very next item councillors dismissed their £50 a week charges for motorcycle and scooter riders as being affordable and insignificant. This level of hypocrisy defies belief, and shows any pretence of Labour Hackney councillors caring about hardpressed residents and workers is nothing but cynical empty gesturing. We urge everyone concerned with fairness and the lives and livelihoods of Hackney workers, residents, and carers to join our campaign and stand up against this injustice, and all Hackney residents to carefully consider whether this council displays the standards they want from their representatives.”

Hackney’s new bike parking charges are up to £10 a day, which is 20 times more than in any other London Borough. And the parking charge will apply even to electric bikes or mopeds, scotching even the flimsiest arguments about air pollution being a factor.

MAG anti-pothole campaign

Continuing its crusade on “bread and butter” motorcycling issues, the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) is renewing its campaign for improved road surface conditions. It’s a matter close to many riders’ hearts, of course: the impact (literal and metaphorical) of a big pothole can be much greater on a motorcycle than a car or truck. And with the risk of expensive wheel, tyre and suspension repairs – or even severe crashes – potholes really are a big issue for motorcyclists. Indeed, MAG says more than 70 riders are killed or seriously injured each year in incidents where road surface is a factor. Declining revenues and cost-cutting by local councils and highway authorities, together with a miserable winter, means many riders are dealing with worse-thanusual road conditions.

So MAG is throwing its weight behind promoting a new parliamentary petition for motorcyclists. The petition, raised by Dean Murphy, calls for increased road repair and resurfacing funding and is available online at: tinyurl.com/xw98nsy4

MAG director Colin Brown, said, “Potholes are an emotive subject for riders. A simple request for stories of pothole-related crashes on MAG’s social media attracted a response rate higher by an order of magnitude than other posts. Potholes have always been in the top five issues that get raised by our membership.

“The recent announcement by Jeremy Hunt of an extra £200m to tackle the issue is risible when taken in the context of the £14bn backlog of repairs reported by the Asphalt Industry Alliance in their 2023 ALARM report.”

#77 Dominique Aegerter WorldSSP

Current world champion

Harley launches demo tour

HARLEY IS 120 YEARS OLD THIS year, and its UK arm is celebrating with a big nationwide demo ride tour. It kicked off at Sam’s Diner in St Austell, Cornwall, in May and continues through to September.

The tour has a range of the latest Harley models available for customers to try, including the all-new Nightster 975 Special and Breakout 117, plus the Pan America 1250 adventure tourer. There’s also a selection of Softail cruisers and luxurious Grand American Touring models.

TOUR DATES 2023:

1 July: Poulson Creative

Customs, Essex

8 July: Docks Beers, Grimsby

9 July: NY500, Pickering

15 July: Bridge House Café, Lancaster

29 July: Baffle Haus, Pontypool

6 August: Rivos Hub, Poole

19 August: The Green Welly, Crianlarich

23 September: Rykas, Box Hill

Ulti-Moto bike care launched

Anew firm – backed by a highly experienced man of the industry – is launching an innovative range of bike aftercare products it claims will help dealers make more money from each bike sale.

That industry veteran is Steve Keys, who’s been in the bike trade for more than 40 years. Keys’ new business is launching with a bike care package, which includes a ceramic paintwork treatment product and an anti-corrosion system for exposed metalwork, both applied by dealers before a bike is released to the customer. The customer gets a 12-month supply of aftercare products to maintain the finish, and UltiMoto claims that the paint and anti-corrosion products will keep a bike in the best possible condition. The ceramic coat is suitable for both matt and gloss

paint finishes – a first in the industry – and has been specially formulated to work on bikes rather than being a rebadged car product.

“I’m on a mission to make sure nobody ever polishes their motorcycle again!” said Keys when BDN spoke to him. “Because polishing is what damages the paintwork. We want customers to spend more time riding their bikes than cleaning them while enhancing residual values. Remember that on PCP deals, they need to get to the right level of quality to have enough deposit left over for the next one.”

And Keys says there’s more to come from Ulti-Moto, with a comprehensive portfolio of aftermarket products and services ready to be launched

and all set to increase revenues. “This is the start of a brand we’re initially launching with these care products, but we have other products we will bring to market soon to help dealers make a lot of money.

“Ulti-Moto is here to support the industry and create profit opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable. Over the next six months, we’ll be bringing new, innovative products to the market that no one else has been able to make available previously.”

Ulti-Moto

07966 797856

steve@ulti-moto.com

Marketing Delivery adds new SMS functions

CUSTOMERS INCREASINGLY LIKE TO communicate by text message (SMS) rather than voice calls – and digital marketing firm Marketing Delivery is making it easier to manage this process. The firm’s LeadBox lead management software has added a new SMS tool that allows dealers to have two-way communications via text messages, with potential or existing clients.

The firm estimates a third of aftersales customers prefer to hear from dealers via SMS, but many current systems only allow one-way

communication. LeadBox, together with the firm’s VoiceBox software, means customers always have a way to reply: there’s no ‘noreply’ email addresses, withheld numbers, or unmonitored text message chats.

“Changes in consumer behaviour have increased expectations of instant interactions with dealerships, but daily life doesn’t always lend itself to an excess of phone calls if the workshop needs to contact the customer,” said Jeremy Evans, chief executive at Marketing

Delivery. “Adding two-way SMS functionality to our aftersales software makes it simple for the customer to respond using their most preferred method. Workshop teams can now use SMS, for example, to seek and secure approval of costs before commencing work and the SMS thread can be synced to the customer record for future reference.”

Marketing Delivery 01892 599911

www.marketingdelivery.co.uk

GDPR to be reformed

At the start of March, the government announced the reintroduction of the Data Protection and Digital Information (No.2) Bill. First mooted in July 2022, the original Bill was withdrawn “to allow ministers to consider the legislation further.”

Despite the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act being not even five years old, the government says it wants to capitalise on post-Brexit freedoms as some elements of the UK GDPR and DPA create barriers, uncertainty and unnecessary burdens for businesses and consumers.

And for many, the delay from last year was welcomed – especially by the European Commission since, as Euractive.com commented, “London's planned reform of its data protection regime has attracted considerable attention in Brussels, given its potential implications for the EU-UK data adequacy agreement reached in 2019, which facilitates ongoing data transfers between the two.”

In response, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has said that the UK had been in “constant contact” with the European Commission in creating the new Bill.

So, what is the government proposing?

In overview, there are several changes. Subject Access Requests – where individuals seek their information – can be refused or charged for if vexatious; there will be new legitimate interests for processing data; there are to be new rules on data security; a ‘senior responsible person’ who is part of an organisation’s

senior management must be appointed; record-keeping requirements are to be diluted except for ‘high risk’ activities; the role of artificial intelligence in data processing will be clarified; and the penalties for breaching rules on electronic marketing are to be radically increased.

There is confidence in the revised Bill in that it has been co-designed to create more integrity and transparency. Of course, the fact that elements of bureaucratic red tape have been removed or watered down is going to be good for business; they'll have new-found clarity about when they can process personal data without needing consent without weighing up their own interests against an individual's rights.

But lawyers such as Jeanette Burgess, head of regulatory and compliance at Walker Morris, are warning that the Bill doesn't radically change the data protection regime, as “organisations still need to make sure that they only process personal data where they have a lawful basis to do so, and that data protection principles are

compliant with the UK GDPR will not need to make any significant changes as the main principles and obligations of the current data protection regime will remain. However, it’s hoped that the burdens on organisations are eased, but the results will take time to become apparent.

More detail will filter out on the Bill at gov.uk

There is confidence in the revised Bill in that it has been codesigned to create more integrity and transparency

International news

With financial editor Roger Willis

Troubled triumvirate

HONDA: THE RULING CLASS

Full-year results for the world’s biggest bike brand were another display of unassailable superiority. Honda’s annual motorcycle business revenue increased remorselessly, 33.1% up to £17.203bn. Operating profit climbed by 56.9% year-on-year to £2.891bn. Operating margin rose to 16.8% from 14.3%.

To underline such absolute domination for powered twowheelers, turnover from parallel Honda car production was nearly four times larger at £63.9bn but yielded only a slimline £249m operating profit.

The driving force has been global wholesale growth of 10.2% to 18.757 million Honda-branded bikes during the 12 months. Some 12.161 million of these were made by wholly-owned subsidiaries, the rest by joint-venture affiliates.

Vast emerging Asian markets led the way, rising by 10.4% to 16.108 million machines sold.

The three Japanese motorcycle brands counting their beans across an April 2022 to March 2023 fiscal year have enjoyed a terrific post-pandemic recovery. But all of them are now anticipating markedly slower growth – or in Kawasaki’s case a decline – in the new 2023-2024 period. BDN financial editor Roger Willis wasn’t impressed by the lack of excuses

Astra Honda in Indonesia, a JV partnership with British overseas trading conglomerate Jardine Matheson, was leading contributor, its output improving by 15.7% to 4.48 million despite ongoing semiconductor shortages.  Honda-owned factories in India were close behind, together boasting a 16% advance to 4.025 million. Subsidiary plants in Vietnam and Thailand followed, respectively 16.3% up to 2.407 million and 25.1% up to 1.456 million.

Other emerging regions accounted for a 10.9% improvement to 1.597 million. Within those, Honda’s Brazilian production hub at Manaus put on 15.4% to 1.125 million. In more profitable developed-world markets, North America topped the pile, 5% higher to 459,000. European sales improved by 9.5% to 347,000. Japanese domestic numbers were almost flat, though, 0.8% up to 246,000.

Forecasts for the new fiscal year to March 2024 are surprisingly

modest. Honda estimates that its total motorcycle unit sales will rise by a mere 2.3% to 19.18 million. Asia will grow by only 1.7% to 16.375 million and other emerging regions by just 2.1% to 1.63 million. However, developed markets should do better. The prediction for Europe is a 25.4% rise to 435,000. North America will be 2.4% up to 470,000 and Japan is set to recover by 9.8% to 270,000.

¥-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 11 May

KAWASAKI: GREEN SHOOTS WITHER?

According to its full-year results, good times were rolling again for the powersports and engine division of Kawasaki Heavy Industries. But apparently not for much longer.

Total revenue for the 12 months exceeded estimates, 32% up to £3.498bn. Motorcycles destined for the developed world generated the biggest contribution, a 24.3%

increase to £1.25bn (but slightly below forecast). Motorcycles for emerging markets yielded an above-forecast 14.9% rise to £685m. Turnover from utility vehicles, quadbikes and personal watercraft – mainly aimed at US customers – delivered a 47.4% improvement to £949m. A 51.8% boost from general-purpose petrol engines accounted for the rest.

Divisional operating profit almost doubled, growing by 90.7% to £423m. Operating margin increased from 8.3% to 12.1%. Global wholesale motorcycle shipments rose by 13% to 555,000. The four-wheel and PWC segment shipped a 7.4% volume increase to 87,000 units.

Developed motorcycle markets were 13.9% up to 237,000. Within that, US dealer demand soared by 38.4% to 119,000 and Canada put on 66.7% to 10,000. But European inventory slumped by 5.6% to 67,000. Australia was 8.3% down to 11,000 and Japanese domestic sales fell by 12.9% to 27,000.

Bikes for emerging countries advanced by 12.4% to 318,000. The Philippines were way out in front, adding 29.8% to 209,000. Indonesia and China respectively declined by 4.4% to 43,000 and 18.9% to 30,000. Brazil flatlined on 10,000 and Thailand plunged by 57.1% to just 3000. Some 20,000 went to elsewhere.

SUZUKI: NEW BROOM PAYS OFF

Having withdrawn from global sporting engagement in favour of more modest objectives, Suzuki Motor Corporation’s motorcycle business satisfactorily banked this change in direction. Full-year revenue accelerated by 31.4% to £1.961bn. Operating profit went ballistic, 170.2% up to £172m. Operating margin reached a record 8.8%.

Asian performance was to the fore in elevating turnover, 30.9% up to £976m. Suzuki’s wholly-owned Indian motorcycle and scooter subsidiary played the biggest role in that, adding 40.6% to £521m. Other emerging markets improved by 28.6% to £338m. Among key developedworld contributors, Europe boasted a 33.3% rise to £230m and North America mounted a 60% recovery to £282m.

Good times were rolling again for the powersports division of Kawasaki Heavy Industries. But apparently not for much longer

Bike production during the year grew by 7.3% to 1.914 million. The vast majority were made in Asian plants. Only 111,000 originated from Japan.  Worldwide unit sales were 13.4% up to 1.859 million. Asia consumed 1.528 million of them, a 15.4% increase. Within that, India put on 21.4% to 740,000. China was 6.8% higher at 430, 000 and the Philippines climbed by 22.5% to 197,000. Elsewhere in the emerging firmament, Latin America was 17.5% up to 198,000.

Forecasts for Kawasaki’s new fiscal year to 31 March 2024 are considerably less enticing. The company plans a reduction of about 7% in the supply of motorcycles to developed countries and a commensurate increase in emerging markets. Unsurprisingly, it predicts this will lead to an approximate 2% drop in annual turnover to £3.432bn and slash operating profit by 34.3% to £278m.

On a brighter note, at least Kawasaki is continuing joint research on hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engines with Toyota, Nippon Denso and four other motorcycle manufacturers. ¥-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 14 May

European sales volume rose by 9.1% to 31,000 and North American numbers were 11.5% up to 32,000. The Japanese domestic market fell by 14.6% to 46,000.

However, Suzuki’s new fiscal year isn’t so promising. Production is set to expand by just 3% to 1.971 million bikes, with projected global sales volume only 4.4% up to 1.941 million. Asian growth is forecast at a mere 4.3% to 1.594 million, while smaller emerging markets should see a 3.5% decline to 215,000.

North America is likely to flatten on only a 3.4% gain to 33,000. But saving the good news until last, European volume should rise with a predicted 39.6% surge to 43,000.

¥-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 15 May

Mixed messages

BMW MOTORRAD: FLAT SALES BUT PROFITS SURGE

Posh model mix and premium prices evidently ensured that BMW Group’s motorcycle business was laughing all the way to its bank in Q1, despite struggling unit sales volume.

Total revenue during the period grew by a useful 16.8% to £820.4m. Associated operating profit went ballistic, 42.6% up to £135.4m, and quarterly operating margin improved to 16.5% from 13.5% year-on-year. Pre-tax income also sat on £135.4m, although growth was marginally lower at 41.3%. Net profit contribution by the Motorrad segment increased by 23.6% to £96.7m.

However, retail deliveries to customers worldwide advanced marginally, by 1.1% to 47,935 motorcycles and maxiscooters. The nowusual paucity of information on performance covering individual markets then kicked in. MCIA resources independently available to BDN indicate UK registrations for the brand in Q1 declined by 0.1% to 2677 bikes. Beyond that, we were none the wiser.

Oddly, BMW wasn’t so shy about bragging rights across its automotive segment –providing detailed breakdowns of delivery

Healthy bottom lines were pretty much ubiquitous for motorcycle manufacturers revealing corporate performance in the opening quarter of this year. But retail activity has been fairly stagnant or in retreat in many cases, as wholesale demand from dealers eager to rebuild inventory meets the inflationary strain facing consumers. BDN financial editor Roger Willis suspects that number-crunching further into 2023 may prove to be somewhat more fraught

volumes throughout various global markets, and even the role played in them by specific vehicle model variants. Battery-electric vehicle output also got a massive topical splash.

Motorcycles only reappeared as full-year forecasting footnotes in the results statement. Annualised bike deliveries are “predicted to increase slightly”. Operating margin is “expected to finish within a range of between 8% and 10%”. And RoCE (return on capital employed) will be “between 21% and 26%”. €-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 4 May

DUCATI: NO STOPPING ITALIAN STALLIONS

Ticking virtually all the right boxes for its Volkswagen Group parent, Ducati performed exceptionally in the first three months of 2023.

Quarterly revenue for the Bologna-based but Wolfsburg-owned brand climbed remorselessly by 40.3% to £282.6m. Higher sales volumes, a better model mix and after-sales growth took the credit. Operating profit went stratospheric, boasting a 134.2% increase to £50.8m. Operating margin leapt from 10.7% to 17.8%.

Underlying that success were total production

figures 8.2% up to 17,043 and global retail deliveries to customers rising by 9.1% to 14,725.

The Naked/ Sport Cruiser segment spanning Diavel, Monster and Streetfighter models shipped 22.5% more machines to dealers, a 6600 headcount, with retail 15.5% higher at 5010. Monsters topped that particular slot with 2005 bikes sold to hoi polloi Ducatisti.

Dual/Hyper, armed with Hypermotard, DesertX and Multistrada products, lifted wholesale by 28.4% to 5982 and retail 30.2% up to 5822. The best-selling Multistrada V4 adventure range led that charge, thanks to 2688 of them rolling out of showrooms. Some 1442 examples of the DesertX reaching customers were worthy of an honourable mention too.  Sport production, covering SuperSport and Panigale superbike machinery, also increased substantially, by 35.3% to 3691. But retail sales flatlined, 0.8% down to 2729. Really poor numbers came from Ducati’s Scrambler subbrand, though, where wholesale output plunged by 74.2% to just 770 and retail was 39.8% lower on 1164. Specific component shortages may have been responsible for that.

European markets accounted for 61% of all retail transactions, improving from 57% in the same period last year. Italian domestic sales were strongest, 7% up to 2717 bikes. Germany put on 21% to 1666. The US market, Ducati’s second-largest export target, also added 21% to 1677, increasing its global share to slightly more than a tenth.

Ducati is now represented in more than 90 countries via a sales network currently stretching to in excess of 800 dealers. And the company says it intends to add 55 new outlets during 2023. Among those already unveiled in the first quarter is an inaugural AudiDucati retail integration dealership in Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, which may prove to be an ominous sign of the times.

€-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 5 May

HARLEY-DAVIDSON: BULLISH NEW YEAR START

Kicking off the corporate reporting season with a relatively robust set of first-quarter numbers, there are still a lot of unanswered questions in Harley-Davidson’s future – not least, affordability of increasingly premium-priced products on home turf.

Total quarterly revenue grew by 19.6% to £1.435bn. The primary constituent was a 20.5% rise in turnover from motorcycles and related products to £1.25bn. The HDFS consumer credit and dealer inventory funding arm’s revenue contribution put on 16.2% to £179.1m. Input from Harley’s LiveWire electric bike spinoff added £6.2m, a notional annualised decline of 25.4%.

Commenting on these figures, chairman and chief executive Jochen Zeitz said: “HarleyDavidson delivered a solid start to the year with consolidated first quarter revenue reflecting the progress we continue to make in advancing our Hardwire strategic plan.”

Overall operating profit rose by 27.8% to £296.3m. Within that, income from motorcycles and related products was 53.4% up to £269.1m. But HDFS profitability slumped by 32.4% to £46.9m, owing to higher borrowing costs and POS bad debts. Such loan defaults were ostensibly caused by several unidentified factors relating to the “current macro environment”. LiveWire incurred an operating loss of £19.7m, worsening from a booked loss of £12.8m in the same period last year.

However, net profit stacked on 36.7% to £243.9m, so Jochen Zeitz was a happy bunny on behalf of fellow stakeholders. Although Harley’s share price initially plunged by more than 6% when the results were announced, it almost completely recovered in that full session’s trading.

the profitable core product segments, following “sunsetting” of the late but fondly remembered Sportster range.

Latin America in its entirety shifted only 606 machines to paying customers, a 25.1% reduction, thanks to being adversely impacted by tough regional economic conditions. And then alleged growth in Asia-Pacific countries –of a minimal 2.7% to 6881 motorcycles – was hailed as continuing strong demand across key markets, including Japan and Australia.

For its full-year 2023 forecast, Harley has reaffirmed previous guidance and continues to expect revenue growth of 4% to 7% from motorcycles and related products, and an operating margin of 14.1% to 14.6%. But the HDFS funding arm’s operating profit is set to decline by somewhere between 20% to 25%. LiveWire electric motorcycle sales are likely to be in a broad range of 750 to 2000 units, with an annual operating loss of about £90m to £100m.

Subsequent negative commentator reaction to these Q1 results focused on unadventurous forecast growth targets and drawing parallels between the aforementioned weak domestic retail demand and fresh economic data showing that US personal consumption remained flat in March. Persistent inflation is apparently discouraging budget-conscious Americans from committing to larger discretionary purchases –as it almost certainly is elsewhere.   $-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 28 April

PIAGGIO: THE STING OF SUCCESS

Of course, much of this good news had been based on banking an early-season Q1 surge in wholesale shipments, which were 13.7% up to 62,237 units, to boost dealer inventories worldwide. Global retail sales were less enticing, 12.5% down at 39,425, with a variety of excuses on tap.

US domestic retail performance fell sharply by 17.3% to 24,277. This was blamed by Harley on timing of new product launches, as well as somewhat amorphous “shifting macro conditions”. Sales in adjacent Canada were a more modest 6.7% lower at 1744, which sounds like an acceptable result given Canucks often still have snow on their boots during much of the three months in contention.

The EMEA region, which predominantly means the whole of Europe and was Harley’s biggest export market for many years, sank by 5.9% to a fairly pathetic 5917 bikes leaving showrooms. According to available excuses, this was primarily driven by market exits, in addition to a planned unit mix shift towards

It may seem counter-intuitive to name your historic headline product after an unpleasant insect species. But vespidae (wasps) are lucky in Pontedera, where Italian scooter giant Piaggio has just notched up its best-ever Q1 results.

Piaggio’s consolidated quarterly revenue to 31 March buzzed 20% up to £477.3m. And a 4.8% increase to 124,700 powered twowheelers sold worldwide, plus associated spares and accessories, was credited with generating £382.2m of that – in turn a 17.1% increase yearon-year.

The resultant operating profit sting was 62.2% higher at £39.2m. Operating margin climbed from 6.1% to 8.2%. Pre-tax profit rose by 78.7% to £31.9m. And a record-breaking Q1 net profit almost doubled to £21m, against £11.1m in the same period last year. Net debt was reduced by £11.3m to £373.5m.

PTW sales turnover in the EMEA and Americas together was reportedly 21.9% up. On this side of the Atlantic, revenue in Italy grew by 40.3%. In the USA, it was 58.2% higher. The Asia-Pacific region was a more modest contributor, rising by 12.4%.

There are still a lot of unanswered questions in HarleyDavidson’s future –not least, affordability of increasingly premium-priced products

In Europe, Piaggio claimed a 21.7% share of the scooter market, improving slightly from 21% in Q1 last year. Share of the North American scooter market rose from 24.6% to 26.4%.

Piaggio’s scooter sector as a whole boasted a 16.8% advance in global turnover, led by an 18% increase for the Vespa brand and support from the Piaggio MP3 three-wheeler plus Piaggio Beverley, Medley and Liberty high-wheel scooters.

The motorcycle sector allegedly achieved revenue growth of 12.7%. Moto Guzzi claimed its best-ever quarter, with sales volume up by about 30% and turnover improving by approximately 55%. The new Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello apparently played an important role. Aprilia also signalled an excellent quarterly performance from RSV4, RS660, Tuono 660 and 1100, and Tuareg 660 models. But, as ever, actual unit sales figures for either brand were entirely absent.

€-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 8 May

POLARIS: MUST TRY HARDER

Although US powersports giant Polaris expects annual growth outlook for 2023 to remain fairly weak, particularly in its crucial domestic market, a combination of strong wholesale availability, higher pricing and dealer demand for inventory boosted Q1. Retail performance was generally a disappointment, though.

Total quarterly turnover improved by 22.4% to £1.75bn. Resultant operating profit was 60.8% up at £129.3m. Net profit rose by 62.2% to £91m, before a dodgy non-GAAP adjustment represented the bottom line as growing by 47.1% to £95.5m.

Revenue from the key Polaris off-road vehicle (ORV) segment, which primarly covers both sport and utility side-by-sides, plus quadbikes, but also includes snowmobiles, put on 18.6% to £1.278bn. Wholesale uptake was reportedly driven by higher volume and favourable pricing. However, North American retail ORV unit sales fell by 10%.

In the on-road segment, dominated by Indian Motorcycle medium and heavyweight cruisers, but also featuring Slingshot sporting trikes and moped-licenced Aixam quadricycles, revenue

climbed by 41.9% to £259.7m. Broadly referring to the Indian brand, Polaris said wholesale success was bolstered by better product availability on the back of an improving supply chain environment, as well as a favourable product mix. Sales of related parts, garments and accessories also surged by 19%.

Nevertheless, Indian retail sales in North America were flat. The only redeeming aspect of that was retail for comparable motorcycles on home turf (ie Harley-Davidson) sank by a double-digit percentage during the quarter. $-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 2 May

YAMAHA: CATCHING UP FAST

After a lot of now generally redundant bleating about supply-chain glitches and semiconductor shortages, Yamaha has responded to strong demand with ramped-up production and shipments – and the proof is higher sales and profits in Q1.

The brand’s first-quarter motorcycle business revenue put on 25.3% to £2.043bn, on the back of global unit sales improving by 12.1% to 1.274 million. Asia was 22.6% up to £1.228bn, thanks to a 13.6% sales volume increase encompassing 1.028 million of those bikes.

More profitable developed markets together rose by 30.8% to £530m. Prominent within them, European turnover climbed by 29.8% to £309m as associated unit sales added 7.8% to 55,000. North America achieved a particularly remarkable recovery – more than doubling revenue through a 110.7% hike to £139m and increasing unit sales by 85.7% to 26,000. Latin America and various other markets were 26.8% higher at £275m, as volume grew marginally by 0.7% to 144,000.

Radically improved operating profit from motorcycles also more than doubled, rising by 120.9% to £161m. Operating margin lifted from 4.5% to 7.9%.

Yamaha’s forecasts going forward through 2023 are mixed. While it anticipates continued strong demand for bikes in emerging markets as they experience economic recoveries, the company is cautious about uncertainties in the US and European economies.

¥-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 15 May

Yamaha president Eric de Seynes appointed IMMA president

THE INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE Manufacturers’ Association (IMMA) has appointed a new president for the 2023-2025 term. Eric de Seynes, current Yamaha Motor Europe president and CEO and long-time motorcycle enthusiast, was elected to take over from Rakesh Sharma, the 2020-23 president.

De Seynes, nominated by ACEM (the European manufacturers association), was elected alongside Johannes Loman, nominated by FAMI, who was elected vice president. De Seynes is also a senior executive officer at Yamaha Motor Company, and Vice President of ACEM. Loman is a director at PT Astra International Tbk Indonesia and president of the IMMA-member associations FAMI (Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries).

Accepting his election, De Seynes pledged to advance safe and sustainable motorcycling through education, innovation, and cooperation. “Thank you for your confidence in electing me. I am fully committed to the task and look forward to working with the members and with the secretary general, defending and promoting the industry and motorcycling.”

A familiar face at the EICMA show each year, de Seynes inherited his father’s passion for motorcycles at a very young age. He started competing in motorbike racing in 1974 and took part in the Paris-Dakar in 1982. In 2016, and after holding several leadership positions in the motorcycle industry, he was appointed group executive officer of Yamaha Motor Company, before becoming president and CEO of Yamaha Motor Europe, a first for a non-Japanese employee.

From left: Eric de Seynes (IMMA president 20232025) and Rakesh Sharma (president 2020-2023)

New European distributors for Cardo Systems

Intercom maker Cardo has strengthened its European distributor network, with three new deals covering Romania, Slovenia and Austria. The Aures company in Slovenia and Xajo in Austria will distribute the full range of Cardo products, adding to the relationship, started last year, with Moto Mus in Romania.

Jonathan Yanai, VP global sales for Cardo Systems, says: “We are very happy to welcome Aures, Xajo and Moto Mus to our global distribution network. They have fantastic experience distributing premium brands and extensive knowledge of the local markets. I look forward to working closely with Aures and Xajo to develop Slovenia and Austria. We started working with Moto Mus in 2022 and so far have seen great growth in the Romanian market – I am confident that we can grow this successful partnership even further.”

NEW YUASA AND HONDA PARTNERSHIP

BATTERY MAKER YUASA HAS ANNOUNCED THAT IT is building a new Japanese production plant in collaboration with Honda to make lithium-ion cells for electric vehicles. The new Kyoto factory, backed by the Japanese government, represents an investment of ¥434bn (£2.545bn), and will produce the equivalent of 20GWh battery capacity per annum for the companies’ joint venture – to be called Honda GS Yuasa EV Battery R&D – which will launch at the end of 2024.

On a smaller scale, in the UK Yuasa has announced a new training partnership with the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry). The two organisations say they will work together to develop new training programmes for bike technicians, focusing on new and existing battery technologies.

Indian investor Motovolt takes stake in German electric bike firm eROCKIT

Berlin-based electric bike maker eROCKIT, has announced a million-euro investment in the firm by Indian investor Motovolt – and the new partner is also setting up a €10m production plant in India. According to eROCKIT, the new investment will strengthen the production of its unique eROCKIT One model in Hennigsdorf near Berlin, as well as funding the development of a new entry-level model, which will serve as a platform for further international models.

The firm produces a unique range of bikes, which blends 125cc-equivalent electric bike performance with the ‘human hybrid’ system that uses pedals, like an e-bicycle, enabling riders to hit nearly 60mph, while pedalling…

Andreas Zurwehme (CEO eROCKIT AG) said, “Our technology serves people and solves mobility problems worldwide. Our vehicles stand for healthy exercise, clean mobility, better air in our cities and less noise. In addition, we are helping to achieve the climate goals with eROCKIT.”

Tushar Choudhary (CEO Motovolt) commented, “India is the largest two-wheeler market in the world. The demand for innovative and emissionfree vehicles is enormous. For us, eROCKIT means cutting-edge technology and German engineering. We are therefore investing in this company and together we will lead it to great international success.”

From left to right: Aaron Troschke (German social media influencer), Andreas Zurwehme (Chairman eROCKIT AG) Tushar Choudhary (CEO Motovolt) and Max Kruse (exGermany international footballer)

Ray Palmer 1942-2023

Known in the trade and the racing community as the country’s top man for frame and wheel straightening, Ray Palmer of Maidstone Motoliner, Aylesford, Kent, died recently in Maidstone Hospital after suffering from cancer and a short illness aged 80.

Born in Crayford, Kent, Palmer left school aged 15 to work in a hardware store. The shop was shut on Wednesdays, convenient for Palmer to attend motorcycle practice days at nearby Brands Hatch.

The following year his father bought him a motorcycle. From then on Palmer was besotted with powered two-wheelers. He immediately joined the Erith Motorcycle Club and got to know local key players in the racing world.

Moving on to work for a Dartford gearbox repair company, he took up motocross on a 350 Matchless, followed by a Greeves, and then switched to grass track which became his passion, especially the design and construction of frames for solo and sidecar use.

He was able to develop his frame-building and tuning skills when he became the first employee at Crosthwaite and Gardner, vintage and classic car restorers, whose later work included creating replicas of the 1930’s V16 Auto Union race car.

Palmer and his first wife Jacqui, lived above the firm’s Lamberhurst, Kent, premises. After working on Bugattis, Maseratis and the like, he had access to tools and space to work on two and three-wheel projects when off-duty. His first grass track special was a 175 MV in a straight tube chassis.

When Crosthwaite and Gardner moved premises, Palmer joined grass track and long track manufacturer and champion rider Don Godden at Little Preston, Kent.

Palmer later left Godden so that he could have more freedom to develop radical designs at his home workshop in East Farleigh, Kent. One was an Ariel 250 two-stroke twin grass tracker in a frame which integrated a fuel tank and expansion chambers.

Palmer sponsored riders and organised events at international level, the best known being the Bonfire Burn-up at Collier Street, Kent. A founder of the Tonbridge Motor Cycle Club, he was selfless in his enthusiasm for grass track and speedway.

In 1975 he and 50cc racer Maurice Thomas set up Molray Engineering in Dover Street, Maidstone. Thomas’s nickname was Mol, hence the name of

companies gave their approval after denying Palmer cover using his home-made frame jig.

While Thomas was an expert on spoke wheels, Palmer concentrated on the growing cast wheel market as well as working the Motoliner and modifying it to suit later alloy and cast frames. His skills with a hammer, torch and hydraulics became legendary.

In 1987 Palmer moved next door to set up Maidstone Motoliner as a separate business. In 1990 he moved it to its current premises at Aylesford, Kent. Son Tommy joined him in 1991 and competed in speedway and grass track, becoming the 1994 350 British grass track champion (Jawa 4-valve).

In 2000 Ray and Tommy acquired a second Motoliner to cater for the classic bike market. By this time, the business was long established as the UK’s leading frame and wheel truing specialists, attracting work from BSB and other top race teams, private riders and trade.

With Tommy taking a more prominent role in the business Ray was able to winter in Australia, where he married his second wife, Sue, in 2004.

An indulgence was collecting lightweight Italian bikes, Ray’s involvement with the Pope brothers’ 50cc Itom Road racer as a young man being a key influence.

A fun-loving character who enjoyed a glass of Budweiser, home parties around a snooker table and a bit of mischief revving up JAP grass trackers at any time of day or night, Ray Palmer leaves sons Tommy and Jody, daughter Rachael, and six grandchildren.

Maidstone Motoliner continues to be in high demand, run by Tommy Palmer, working with a fulltime and a part-time employee.

New commercial manager for BRP

business strategies that will assist in driving sales opportunities and helping to open new sales avenues for dealers. In addition, she will support dealers by providing exclusive retail promotions from the brand and partner organisations.

Write for BDN...

Are you a journalist with knowledge of the motorcycle trade? Would you like to write for the UK’s leading industry magazine – British Dealer News?

We are looking for experienced journalists from all parts of the UK who can produce accurate news reports with photographs and write compelling features on distributors, dealers and manufacturers in the motorcycle trade.

BDN is committed to providing objective reports on all the latest industry news and events, and we are looking to expand that team. Interested? Email: editorial@dealernews.co.uk

WE’RE HIRING

HGB Motorcycles/Daytona Motorcycles are both well-established and respected Kawasaki/Suzuki/Yamaha and Honda Motorcycle Dealerships based in Ruislip Manor, Northwest London.

We are currently looking for the following:

An experienced Motorcycle Technician/Mechanic

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/Suzuki/Yamaha motorcycles.

Sales Person (Honda)

We are looking for a top quality candidate to come and join our very successful team to sell some of the motorcycle market’s most exciting and popular bikes and scooters in our busy showroom.

A competitive salary and benefits package will be awarded to the successful applicants which will reflect both qualifications and experience.

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

Motorcycle Mechanic

West London Yamaha, are looking for an additional Motorcycle Mechanic to add to our busy and successful Yamaha workshop team.

Regarded as the #1 Motorcycle store in West London perfectly placed at the edge of Twickenham to serve the whole of West London.

This could be a perfect opportunity for someone with the right level of experience, or with less, as we can offer training to the right candidate.

A very competitive salary and benefits package will be awarded to the successful applicant which will reflect both qualifications and experience.

Please send in CV to Peter email sales@westlondonyamaha.co.uk

Honda launches electric two-wheeler

WHENEVER A JOURNALIST speaks to a dealer about electric bikes, they are often told that we’ll need a ‘big player’ to launch a battery powered bike before it can take off properly. And now the biggest of them all – Honda – has entered the scene, with its first production electric two-wheeler to go on sale in the UK and Europe.

But this big moment is centred on a small bike. The new EM1 e: (that’s the official title, not the cat walking over the keyboard) is a small, lightweight moped-class electric scooter, with one of the new Honda removable lithiumion batteries. The power output is modest – 2.3bhp – as is the range – 25 miles. Weight is just 95kg though, and top speed is the limited moped 30mph. Price and availability is still to be confirmed as we go to press.

The importance of the EM1 e: isn’t just in the physical bike itself of course. Rather this could be the start of a more mainstream environment to support electric power on two wheels, with an infrastructure to support removable chargeable batteries, and nine more models on the way from Honda. Other makers, including KTM, Yamaha and Piaggio, are also backing the universal swappable battery scheme.

We’re still a long way from affordable battery-powered equivalents of Fireblades, Africa Twins and CB1000 RS. But as with the first Honda bikes, which were treated as a joke by many when they arrived in the 1960s, this may well be where all those machines will come from…

Electric news Prices slashed as electric sales slump

its pricing as part of a new direct distribution arrangement, with a hefty £700 off all of its new 2023 models. That means the entrylevel CU Mini paddock/campsite scooter is just £999, while the top-end CPX Double battery 125ccequivalent 5bhp/80-mile range scooter is now £4299.

The economic laws around pricing are fairly cut and dried. Broadly speaking, lower pricing will increase demand for a product. So it’s perhaps no surprise that the recent plunge in electric two-wheeler sales has led to some price cuts. Some of the biggest names in battery-powered bikes are slashing prices, right at the start of the season, in a bid to improve sales figures.

First up is Zero, which is offering an up-to-£3500 rebate as part of its ‘bringing back the grant’ campaign. The scheme aims to fill the gaps left by the end of the UK government’s plug-in grant last year and gives a 20% rebate on the purchase price of a new 2023 Zero bike. “We were very disappointed

when the government withdrew the Plug-In Electric Vehicle grant last year,” said Dale Robinson, Zero’s UK country manager. “And there’s no doubt that it has had an adverse effect on the adoption of electric motorcycles over the past 12 months. The UK is not the only country to have been affected by this kind of legislative change, which seems at odds with the drive for Net Zero, so as a company, we’ve taken the opportunity to look at ways in which we can make our all-electric motorcycles more accessible, and to step up where governments have stepped back.” At the other end of the price bracket is Super Soco, which has long been the top UK seller of electric bikes. It’s restructuring

Finally, the Segway brand is knocking £300 off its range of lightweight electric scooters in May and June. That’s in addition to the UK government’s OLEV grant and takes the price of the B110S to £1799.

Will these deals get more bums on battery-powered seats? Our old economics lecturer would say yes, definitely. But more cynical observers out there will be waiting to see how the registration figures look in a few months’ time.

Red Dot award for British Zapp i300

It’s not even been officially launched yet, but the Zapp i300 scooter has already scooped up a design award from the German Red Dot company. The 300ccclass scoot makes nearly 19bhp peak output, with a city range of 30-50 miles and slick modern design. It’s been recognised with the Red Dot Award for product design.

Warin Thanathawee, chief design officer at Zapp, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this prestigious Red Dot Award. Zapp is very much a design-led company; quality and innovation are at the centre of all that we do, so to have our work recognised by Red Dot's expert,

international jury is a great honour.

“For the i300, we’ve created a design that blends old and new, one that simultaneously draws inspiration from the history of two-wheeled transport, and looks towards an exciting, electrified future. We’ve created a totally new design language that conveys Zapp's technological advancement and highperformance credentials, all through appealing forms that are simple yet elegant.”

The i300 is available for pre-order now, priced around £5300, including two batteries.

www.zappev.com

Segway B110S

LiveWire launch

The registration figures for electric bikes will, no doubt, still be giving many manufacturers cause for concern. But the conveyor belt of new machinery keeps rolling on, and the American LiveWire brand was in London last month to launch its new battery-powered bike, the S2 Del Mar.

The event, at the Bike Shed in Shoreditch, was the first of a European promotional tour taking in London, Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin, with the Launch Edition of the S2 Del Mar on show. There is a limited edition 100-bike production run to get the new model up and running and it comes with some snazzy bodywork, one-off wheels and a slick white paint job.

The bike itself takes some of its foundations from the LiveWire One electric cruiser, first developed when LiveWire was a sub-brand of Harley-Davidson. The Del Mar is a smaller, lighter bike, and the powertrain has been redesigned and optimised with more up-to-date integrated electronics and slightly less power (80bhp instead of 100bhp). There are echoes of the Harley roots, though, including the unique Dunlop LiveWire branded tyres and a stance that vaguely brings the old H-D Sportster to mind.

The numbers are as you might expect for a full-bore electric bike: around 80bhp with lots of instant grunt promised, 195kg weight, range of 110 miles in ‘urban’ conditions and a chunky price tag of £18,990. It looks well up to a typical trendy commute from St Albans to Shoreditch each day, with premium features like the 4in TFT LCD dash, L2 fast charging (75 minutes 2080%) and over-the-air firmware updates making life easier.

Officially, LiveWire is separate from Harley-Davidson, but the Milwaukee outfit still owns threequarters of the firm, and the organisations also share some senior executive staff. There’s a lot of crossover at lower levels, too – its press releases arrive containing contacts with Harley email addresses. And that will continue when it comes to selling the bikes: LiveWire is launching in the UK, Germany, France and the Netherlands and will, initially, be focused on distribution through existing H-D dealers. The thinking is that those Harley retailers will already be in the corporate mindset and set up with suitable infrastructure.

Whether the existing H-D customer base is already in the LiveWire mindset is another question.

Alternative powered two wheeler registrations for April 2023

The UK battery-electric bike market is verging on poisonous as its size shrinks remorselessly. In April, ePTW market share stood at 3.4% of all registrations, down from 5% a year earlier. The monthly total sank by 40.9% to a mere 336 units.

The dominant up-to-11kW mobility sector, which accounts for almost all ePTW sales, plunged by 41.2% to 303 units. At its lower end, up-to-4kW mopeds executed a 48.2% dive to 141. A1licenced 4-11kW scooters and small motorcycles were 33.3% down to 162. Sur-Ron claimed best-seller status in both slots, thanks respectively to 28 Light Bee models in the former and 39 Ultra Bee models in the latter.

Beyond that, the market hardly existed. Four samples of BMW’s 15kW CE 04 maxi scooter filled

the entire 11-35kW slot. And there were seven over35kW representatives, including two Zero SR/S ZF14.4 models taking the “best seller” accolade. A ragbag of 24 exempt or unidentified bikes completed the tally. For the four months of 2023 to date, battery-electric registrations have declined by 56.8% to 1076. And ePTW market share has fallen from 6.3% to 2.8%.

DISCOUNTING SETS IN

It should not come as a surprise that the recent descent in electric two-wheeler sales has led to early season discounting in an attempt to improve and stimulate sales. What is decidedly worrying is the price reductions are being offered by some of the biggest names in the sector and are being staged so early-on in the season.

ePTW market share stood at 3.4% of all registrations, down from 5% a year earlier

MAXIMUM DURABILITY

C49 Steel Rear Sprockets

JT steel rear sprockets are manufactured using only the finest grade of Japanese C49 high carbon steel. Designed to minimise weight and maximise strength, these sprockets are accurately machined to achieve balance and a perfect fit and chain alignment.

Z3 GS Super Heavy-Duty X-Ring Chain

Engineered for ultimate strength, offering high performance for all modern superbikes. Featuring a corrosion resistant “Gold & Silver” coating on both the inner and outer links.

OEM Type Rubber Cushioned Front Sprockets

JT rubber cushioned sprockets offer the same quality, design, and OEM proven technology as used by major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers since the early 90s to dampen chain impact.

Axxis Wolverine youth helmet

THE WOLVERINE YOUTH AXXIS offers premium technical performance and a high level of safety and comfort for young offroad riders, claims UK distributor Bickers. The helmet’s safety features are said to be perfect for youth motocross riders, complying with ECE and DOT regulations, and have multipledensity inner polystyrene for extra impact protection and come with a quick-release micro-metric buckle for easy removal.

A large eye port provides maximum visibility and superior goggle fit to help novice riders have the best experience in unpredictable motocross conditions. The advanced multiple ventilation systems and breathable, anti-allergic lining allow the rider to focus solely on their riding.

The Axxis helmet is available in three sizes and three designs. The sizes are youth small (47-48cm), youth medium (49-50cm), and youth large (51-52cm); coming in matt yellow, gloss red, and matt pink, all the Wolverine range has an RPP of £79.99. Bickers also distributes a colourful youth range of matching goggles and gloves.

To order the Wolverine and view the full range available from Bickers, visit www.bickers-online. co.uk, or call 01394 604040.

Off-road news

With off-road correspondent Rick Kemp

Triumph signs test riders for 2024 season

As preparations for Triumph’s debut in the 2024 MXGP/MX2 and SuperMotocross World Championships intensify, Triumph Racing confirms that it has signed two top-class riders to lead its race development testing.

Clément Desalle joins as test rider for the Triumph Racing MXGP/MX2 Team, run by Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni, and Ivan ‘Hot Sauce’ Tedesco comes on board as a full-time test rider for the Triumph Racing US SuperMotocross World Championship Team, led by Bobby Hewitt.

Triumph Motorcycles will enter the Monster Energy AMA SuperMotocross World Championship at the start of the 2024 season, with a fully supported factory race programme established in the

United States to run motocross operations under the global Triumph Racing banner. This new Triumph Racing team will field three of Triumph’s all-new 250cc four-stroke motocross bikes in the East and West Coast World Championship before entering the 450cc premier class in 2025.

Similarly, in 2024, Triumph Racing will also contest the prestigious FIM Motocross World Championship with a factorysupported race programme.

The new Triumph Racing Team has been set up in partnership with Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni, one of the sport’s most experienced and successful team owners, who will field two Triumph 250cc motocross bikes in the 2024 MX2 class and will add an entry into the 450cc MXGP class in 2025.

Triumph Racing is based at Triumph’s global headquarters

in Hinckley, where the brand’s off-road design engineering department is located, which is responsible for the concept and development of the powertrains and chassis for the motocross and enduro motorcycle ranges. The MXGP/MX2 World Championship team will be based at Chizat-Suzzoni’s race facility near Eindhoven in Holland. In contrast, the SuperMotocross World Championship operation will be based at a new state-ofthe-art competition headquarters in the USA.

The engineering groups at the Triumph factory and the race teams are working closely together, led by Tedesco and Desalle in the USA, UK and Europe, building towards a competitive World Championship debut in 2024.

Clément Desalle

Ivan Tedesco

Polaris launches 0% finance for business customers

POLARIS OFF-ROAD VEHICLES HAS ANNOUNCED AN EXCLUSIVE two-year 0% finance offer for UK business customers purchasing any Polaris model. Running in conjunction with new finance partner DLL, a global finance brokerage with more than 50 years of experience, this offer is available on all adult products, running until 30 June 2023.

“There’s a reason why Polaris is the global leader in Powersports products. Here in the UK, it’s a trusted brand for farmers, landowners, businesses, sport and leisure owners alike, and the list doesn’t stop there”, said Richard Coleby, national sales manager at Polaris UK & Ireland. “With endless applications and industry-leading capabilities, it’s one of the most broad-spectrum product ranges on offer in the UK today, and all of our products are designed, tested and validated in a working market.

“Our new finance offer adds another option for customers who want to get their hands on one of these machines whilst being able to spread the cost of the vehicle over two years, completely interest-free.”

The offer is, as ever, subject to status, and terms and conditions also apply. Included are the Polaris Ranger 570, 1000 and XP 1000 models, excluding Ranger XP Kinetic and Diesel models, and the deal also includes the Polaris General, RZR, Sportsman and Scrambler models, but excludes youth models.

www.polarisbritain.com

New look Husqvarna Supermoto launched

Enhanced with a striking new look for 2024, Husqvarna’s FS 450 features a new highgrip seat cover and white, grey, and yellow graphics for a more distinctive appearance. Powered by a 450cc SOHC four-stroke engine, the characteristics of the FS 450 can be fine-tuned using a handlebar-mounted Map Select

Switch. Launch control, traction control, and the innovative quickshifter for precise upshifts can all be controlled, even under hard acceleration.

A selection of technical accessories is available, which allows riders to customise their FS 450, with each component designed to enhance on-track performance, reduce weight, or add durability.

And it’s not just the machinery that has a new look. Husqvarna has launched a premium collection of supermoto-specific functional apparel which it says combines innovative technical features for improved comfort, protection, and style.

www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

BENCH MARK

Weise Dune suit

The new Dune Adventure suit from Weise is feature packed and adaptable for all conditions and seasons. It also looks the part. The AA-rated jacket has a tough textile outer shell and comes with CE level-2 shoulder and elbow armour, and a CE level-1 back protector, as standard. There are two drop liners, a waterproof, windproof and breathable one and a 100gsm quilted thermal option. When conditions warm up, there are zips front and back for controlled airflow and a large back pocket for a hydration bladder, complete with outlet and retaining guide for a drinking tube.

Matching Dune Adventure trousers are made to the same specification as the jacket; AA-rated for protection, with CE level-2 knee and hip armour and reinforced knee and inner calf panels. They boast the same adaptability to changes in climate, with removable waterproof and quilted liners and two large thigh vents with stowable flaps. They come complete with removable and adjustable braces and a connection zip for attaching to the Dune jacket. Two concealed

Yamaha leisure bikes

THE 50, 110 AND 125 YAMAHA TT-R range is now available to dealers. While the TT-R50 and TT-R110 are designed with children in mind, adults can enjoy the off-road capabilities of TT-R125 thanks to its reliable four-stroke motor, ergonomic controls and comfortable low seat. Plus, with each model carrying YZ-styled bodywork, it's hard not to be impressed by the TT-Rs.

On the subject of junior fun, Yamaha is proud to be supporting Nora MX and junior Yamaha riders in 2023. As the main championship for ATV racing in the UK, there are classes for adults and juniors providing close racing throughout the season.

www.yamaha-motor.eu

waist pockets and two cargo pockets top off the specification.

The Weise Dune Adventure jacket is available in sizes S-5XL in either black or stone at an SRP of £299.99. The matching Dune Adventure trousers also come in sizes S-5XL, with regular and short-length options, for £249.99 SRP. Both are covered by a two-year warranty.

www.weiseclothing.com

RFN Rally Pro is here

The RFN Rally Pro is a nextgeneration electric dirt bike designed to provide riders with unparalleled performance and versatility on any terrain.

Jamie Masterman, CEO of Urban Moto Distribution, the UK’s exclusive distributor for the new range of RFN products, commented, “The rise of the lightweight off-road electric market has really exploded over the last three years, now riders are demanding more power, a longer wheelbase for improved handling and greater ground clearance for advanced riding. The new Rally Pro takes the entry-level electric market to new heights whilst retaining a competitive price point.”

Equipped with a 74V power system and 12.5kW peak power, the RFN Rally Pro offers four power modes via a direct drive system, providing riders with precise and responsive control. The bike’s fly-by-wire throttle provides a smooth and progressive power delivery, while its four-piston hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear, offer

enhanced safety and control. The Rally Pro comes with an 18-month warranty as standard, a removable LG Premium 21700 Li-ion battery pack and fast charging time of two to three hours. Weighing in at 68kg, the bike is lightweight, making it suitable for riders of all skill levels.

The RFN Rally Pro has a retail price of £4745 and will be available with a saving of £250 during its promotional period. A road-legal variant, the RS, will also be available.

Urban Moto Distribution 01522 589461

distribution@urbanmoto.co.uk

www.rfnbikes.co.uk

New TMX off to a strong start

The third monthly edition of the new-format TMX magazine is just out. So far, the new publishers WW Magazines, says it has no regrets about entering an unfamiliar market.

When asked about the titles early performance, TMX publisher Peter Johns said: “It looks like we will beat our initial target of more than 4000 copy sales for the first issue. Newstrade numbers always come in with a lag, but the EPOS data was very encouraging.

Issue two sales are already ahead of issue one. “Subscriptions have been phenomenal, with a big percentage signing up as Gold Subscriptions – which come with many extra benefits. We are already getting some trade partners asking if they can offer discounts to our Gold Subscribers. From a standing start after the title had been closed for five months, circulation has exceeded all expectations and is clearly going to continue to grow.”

Maxxis bonus continues

MAXXIS’ UK DISTRIBUTOR IS continuing its podium bonus programme for all riders using Maxxis tyres in this year’s REVO ACU British Motocross Championship. The podium bonus is open to all riders in MX1 and MX2, with the top three riders of each round able to take the cash if they are riding on Maxxis Tyres. First place is worth £250, second is £150, and there’s £100 for third, this applies to all eight rounds of the championship.

To qualify, riders have to comply

with certain conditions, details available from customer.services@ bickersltd.co.uk.

Derek McMartin at Bickers said, “It’s great to see Maxxis regularly on the podium and with more top teams switching to Maxxis for 2023, we expect a great season”. Gareth Hockey from RHL Activities added, “It’s great to see the support from Bickers for the Revo ACU British Motocross Championship 2023 and registered riders using Maxxis tyres in the MX1 and MX2 classes.”

Carr’s-Billington to represent Corvus

BOSS ORV has announced that Carr’s-Billington Agriculture will represent the Corvus off-road vehicles brand from its Morpeth, Northumberland branch.

“We are ideally placed to sell Corvus off-road vehicles in the North,” said Mark Lodge, ATV brand manager for Carr’sBillington Agriculture. “We have the people, products and services to support our customers across a broad range of requirements and locations with retail, feed, machinery, fuel and service. There are 32 Carr’s-BiIllington Country Stores throughout Northern England, Scotland and Wales, several of which have machinery sales and service departments. We are proud we can offer Corvus high-quality vehicles, sales and support in our area as part of the growing Corvus dealer network.”

The Corvus Terrain range of 4x4 side-by-side utility vehicles has had a fast-growing presence in the agricultural and groundcare markets since it was first launched in 2019. Corvus was the first European manufacturer to produce an off-road utility vehicle, and the range now comprises diesel, petrol and electric versions of the Terrain.

Contact: 01785 561046, sales@ bossorv.co.uk, www.bossorv.co.uk

Acerbis Linear handguards

NEW ACERBIS LINEAR HANDGUARDS ARE COMPATIBLE WITH BOTH motocross and enduro bikes thanks to its nylon bracelet fixing system, which can be fastened behind the hydraulic reservoirs allowing the hand controls to be kept in their original positions. The loop, characterised by a double self-tapping screw closure, enables millimetre adjustments to any type of handlebar. The polypropylene covers feature a wide protective surface with five vents to regulate the airflow to the riders’ fingers. The new Linear handguard is now available in 10 colours, and to celebrate Acerbis’s 50th anniversary, there is also a limited-edition gold version.

www.acerbisb2b.co.uk

Phil Everett BOSS ORV MD is seen (left) with Graham Adamson, branch sales manager for Carr’s-Morpeth

JOHNS OF ROMFORD

After 50 years as a Honda dealer, Johns of Romford received 24-months’ notice of contract termination at the beginning of lock down. Since then, the family-owned landmark Essex dealership has been able to restructure and recover. Rick

Kemp reports

Johns of Romford was first established in 1966, and two generations of the Adlington family are still involved in the business. If you’ve got Romford, Dagenham and Barking as your catchment area, you can say you’re proper Essex. And in the mid-1960s that was ‘Mod’ territory, so

Properly Essex

when John Adlington opened a bike shop selling cycles and used motorised two-wheelers, scooters were the must-haves. Johns of Romford (JOR) quickly developed a reputation for selling resprayed Vespas and Lambrettas and today it is going strong as an officially appointed Suzuki and BSA motorcycle and scooter

dealership, serving Essex and East London.

The business is now run by John’s son Mike Adlington, who can remember the “Mods and Rockers” era when the business became a regular meeting place on a Saturday for both tribes.

“We pride ourselves on offering the best customer service, which has been achieved through both hard work and dedication as well as years of experience and expert knowledge,” explains Adlington.

“As a ‘One Stop Bike Shop’, we provide the whole package for our customers, from CBT and licensing information, all the way through to machine purchase, along with insurance, finance, servicing and MOTs. We stock genuine parts

and accessories plus all the latest helmets and clothing.”

Also, given its location, JOR is ideally placed for the commuter market. A significant number of its moped and scooter customers were once aspirant taxi drivers doing “The Knowledge”, but as that’s no longer compulsory that market has reduced. But the sector has since been boosted by the uplift in fast food delivery requirements, and JOR can even supply folding pizza delivery boxes. However, according to Adlington, this is a mixed blessing as many potential scooter customers in the fast-food sector are new arrivals to this country and, therefore, not eligible

for finance, which can cause time-wasting and is not always beneficial to customer relations. As a result, there has been an increase in scooter hire rather than purchase, and, of course, the scooters are supplied to the hire company by a local dealer …

For 50 years, JOR was synonymous with the Honda brand – until it got 24 months’ notice in October 2020.

Was there life after Honda? Fortunately for JOR, Honda wasn’t its only franchise: a second shop, a mile away, was home to the Suzuki brand. Adlington recalls, “In the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, it was a fantastic franchise to have, with GSX-Rs and GS500s – it was so exciting. We went solus with Suzuki, so we got better bonuses, and we used to sell about 120 bikes a year as against the 300 Hondas from our other shop. The profit was about the same.”

Losing a major franchise like Honda necessitated some restructuring, and JOR decided on consolidation, so everything is now available at the London Road site in Romford: the full Suzuki range, BSA, used motorcycles plus workshop and MOT station.

On the face of it, BSA might not seem like an obvious choice, but a bit of nostalgia never goes amiss, particularly if yours is a business with some history. “There’s definitely a market out there, albeit a small one,” says Adlington. “The weather hasn’t been too good to start off with this year, but we can take the bikes to auto jumbles, which gives us a presence at these events, and we’re in touch with the local BSA Owners Club. I’m confident that we’ll do all right with them on the basis that most people who are interested either had one back in the day or wanted one but couldn’t afford it. Now they’re older, and they’ve got some disposable

income and a garage, and they’ll probably only do a couple of thousand miles a year. It’s just like having a toy, really.”

As you would imagine, looking back, the Johns of Romford story is an interesting one. John Adlington moved to Romford from Hackney, East London, and, being a keen cyclist, was offered a manager’s job in a cycle shop. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, many local cycle customers were asking for mopeds, motorcycles and scooters. This demand encouraged John to go out and start buying second-hand motorised two-wheelers – which soon sold. In February 1966, the cycle shop owner decided he wanted to retire and offered his managers the opportunity to purchase the shops and stock. And so JOR was established in Rush Green Road, Romford, dealing in used motorcycles and scooters. This was alongside the strong trade for cycles. The first official franchises came along

mechanic and local boy John “JC” Cooper. The resulting increase in trade meant that the business was outgrowing the space at Rush Green Road. John was able to find an ex-car showroom just around the corner on London Road, Romford. In 1975 the business expanded into these

A couple of years later, John was contacted by the thennational electrical retailer Rumbelows, soon to become Currys, regarding a motorcycle business trading as Castle Sports that it didn’t know what to do with. Castle Sports already had Honda and Suzuki franchises, so it was a relatively easy decision on John’s part to add that outlet to the JOR portfolio and turn it into a solus Honda Centre.

Apart from the brands already mentioned, JOR has been a main agent for Kawasaki, BMW, CZ, MZ, Piaggio/Gilera, Peugeot and Puch over the years.

in 1970, thanks to Yamaha and Suzuki, and two years later, Honda joined them. With his strong bicycle association, John did not want to stop serving the cycle trade. This led to him purchasing the shop next door and converting it into a Cycle Centre.

Over the next few years, more and more customers came to Johns of Romford, appreciating the friendly customer service provided by John and his wife Shirley, nephew Dave, and

new, much larger premises and the stock, new bikes, used bikes, spare parts and accessories were divided between both shops. The timing was perfect as the hot, sunny summer of 1976 encouraged more people to move on to motorcycle transport, and the expansion was an instant success.

By 1978 the cycle trade was still doing well. Many customers were coming to the shop from nearby Hornchurch, as there was no local outlet, and they liked dealing with Johns of Romford. So in 1979, John decided to open a cycle and lightweight motorcycle branch in Hornchurch, four miles away. At about the same time, an old friend, who wanted to open his own motorcycle shop in Dagenham, asked John if he would partner with him. The premises they were looking at had previously been a cycle shop, so John got on well with the owners. By April 1979, Johns of Romford (Dagenham) was open for business.

Adlington is very happy with where the company is today. The Suzuki relationship is a successful one, JOR has managed to retain most of its key staff, many of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years, and the Adlington dynasty certainly looks like carrying on. Mike has got to the stage where he can have the odd day off. His daughter and son-in-law are already on board, and their children are waiting in the wings.

“Motorcycling remains in your blood,” says Adlington. “You can be sitting in the car, in traffic, and you see a bike go by – you still want to be on that bike. It’s the same with our customers. They buy a bike in their 20s, they sell it when they get married and have a family, then they come back again in their 40s and 50s.”

Good customer relations are the best way of closing a sale, and a healthy dose of empathy is always of help! 

Johns of Romford Motorcycles 01708 726048 www.johnsofromford.co.uk

We pride ourselves on offering the best customer service, which has been achieved through both hard work and dedication as well as years of experience and expert knowledge

A BSA franchise was recently added to provide nostaglia appeal

WITHOUT

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Business Beat

Moving premises can be expensive and fraught at the best of times, so what are the options for tenants when contractual issues place obstacles in the way of a relocation?

DIFFERING OPTIONS

Jessica Booz, a partner and commercial property solicitor at VWV, says leaseholders looking to move have options. They can try to assign the lease, sublet or utilise any available break clauses.

Alternatively, she says, “It may be possible to talk with the landlord to negotiate a surrender of the whole or part of the property depending on the market at the time.”

However, as Kylie Cooper, a partner at Wright Hassall, explains, this is not an automatic right as “a landlord may agree to an early surrender of a lease, but there is no obligation on them to do this – it will be in their gift.”

MOVING ON

Not many realise that in some leases, either a landlord or tenant can end a lease before the end of the contractual term via a break clause

MAKING THE BREAK

Not many realise that, as Booz highlights, in some leases, either a landlord or tenant can end a lease before the end of the contractual term via a break clause. She says, “Break clauses can be a valuable asset for a tenant wanting to end their obligations early.” Break options are often subject to conditions that must be complied with; if not, a landlord can refuse to accept that the lease has ended.

As with anything legal, good advice is essential, says Booz. This is because “there are often long notice periods, sometimes six months or more, needed before a break

option can be exercised; it is important that time periods are not missed.”

And Cooper thinks the same, adding that not serving notice correctly is a serious risk, and so his first point of reference is the lease as it may prescribe a particular form of notice. Ideally, this would have been negotiated and agreed upon during the drafting of the lease “so that the tenant is clear on its responsibilities in serving the notice and the landlord is required to act reasonably in accepting this.”

Booz draws attention to a common condition: how to give up occupation. She says “it is important that conditions are

negotiated carefully; some conditions, such as a condition to provide ‘vacant possession’ can be difficult to comply with.”

Another requirement is for a tenant to be up to date with rent, which, says Booz, “could also include interest on any historic late payments.” Worryingly, she says that a landlord doesn’t have to confirm to a tenant whether they are up to date with rent etc.

And then there’s the matter of dilapidations, also known as repairing covenants, that cover premises condition when handed back. Cooper explains that the end of the lease “usually acts as a trigger to review dilapidations issues since the tenant’s obligations to reinstate and yield up the premises become relevant.”

Another worry for Cooper is the concern that a landlord may still be able to pursue a dilapidation claim. In fact, she says “landlords may find it easier to claim for dilapidations upon the termination of a lease because there are fewer statutory restrictions.”

Cooper believes the solution is for tenants to “ask their landlord to accept the break notice upon payment of an agreed amount to cover any outstanding breaches.” She also thinks it fair to “ask a landlord for confirmation of the steps the tenant needs to take to comply with any conditions, while also requesting a schedule of dilapidations in relation to any repair works.” And if there is disagreement over any outstanding sums due, she recommends paying “on a without prejudice basis and disputing the matter later.”

Lastly, for those moving to new premises, there’s a warning from Booz – “make sure that the negotiations on them are completed well in advance to avoid having to move items into storage if the new premises are not ready.”

THERE’S NO BREAK CLAUSE …

Break clauses are common, but they’re not universal. They’re also not that frequent. However, Booz says that those in this situation could see if the lease allows a tenant

to assign the whole of the lease to another. Alternatively, they may be able to sublet part or the whole.

In terms of assignment or subletting Cooper says that landlord consent may be required “which can be subject to certain conditions being met which are usually contained in the lease.”

And Booz gives an example: “A landlord will want to know that the new party occupying their premises is able to pay the rent and comply with the lease terms. This means you may have to provide accounts and/or references for the incoming tenant; the landlord may be allowed to demand a guarantor or rent deposit from the new tenant.”

Nevertheless, Cooper adds that a landlord can refuse if there are any arrears of rent or any other sums under the lease or “if it considers that the proposed tenant or undertenant is not of sufficient financial standing.”

With a note of caution, Booz warns those thinking of subletting that “they remain liable for compliance with the lease terms, including the rent payment. Being no longer in occupation and so able to control compliance with the covenants under the lease could make this difficult.”

In comparison, under an assignment, the primary obligation to pay the rent and comply with other covenants, such as repair, moves to the new tenant. However, says Booz, “an outgoing tenant is often required to provide a guarantee to the landlord, which means that if the new tenant does not comply with the lease, the landlord may still yet pursue the original tenant.”

So, with, in Cooper’s view, serious potential for liability to remain, due diligence on those taking over an assigned or sublet lease is essential.

One last point from Booz. It makes sense to ensure that a sublease terminates a few days before the end of the main lease. As she puts it, “This ensures that the original will be able to give vacant possession to the landlord at the end of the lease to avoid the penalties that flow from not doing so.”

SUMMARY

There are numerous ways of disposing of property. The common thread to all is that sound legal advice is necessary for both those leaving and taking on premises; it’s very easy to act in haste and repent at leisure. 

MATTERS MARKETING

WHAT’S THE POINT OF BEING ON SOCIAL MEDIA?

Dan Sager from Fab-Biker PR continues his series on marketing for motorcycle businesses by asking some of the big questions

TikTok. What is it and should we be on it? If I had a pound for every time I’ve been asked that question, it would pay for a pleasant couple of pints of IPA and a packet of pork scratchings (I’m a cheap date!).

The answer is exactly the same for all social media platforms – including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – and it starts with another question. Let’s continue using TikTok as an example so you know I’m down with the kids. Do your customers use TikTok?

In case you were wondering, TikTok is a social media platform for creating, sharing and discovering short videos. The app is used by young people as an outlet to express themselves through singing, dancing, comedy, and lip-syncing. According to recent research studying TikTok users by age, a large majority fall between the ages of 18 to 34. That’s basically a snapshot of people who are unlikely to own or ride a motorcycle.

For some brands, TikTok delivers the ideal audience. Gymshark sportswear is one of the top ten performers on the platform and it’s no surprise that their products will appeal to younger people. If you hope to sell ‘learner’ bikes to teenagers or scooters to young urban commuters, then TikTok could be the place to find them. This could also apply to helmet and clothing brands pitching to youthful riders.

Should you decide that TikTok is the place

to connect with potential customers, you face another question; “What do you hope to achieve?” Without a clear goal, you won’t know whether your campaign is successful or not. For example, you might produce a hilarious video contrasting the nightmare of public transport with the dream of freedom on two wheels. It gets thousands of likes and positive comments, but you don’t sell a single bike or scooter as a result. Why not? Probably because you put all your energy into making a video and forgot to include an invitation to book a test ride or request a finance quote.

Even if you decide that TikTok is the place to run a campaign with the goal of doubling the number of test rides on electric motorcycles and scooters, you’re then faced with the biggest question of the lot. Who is going to produce the content? Remember, it’s all about singing, dancing and comedy and I don’t think they mean Bruce Forsythe! Do you have the

time, energy and skills to produce one video a week? Or do you have the budget to hire someone to do it for you? Is this the best use of your precious resources?

Whatever social media channel you currently use, or are considering, ask yourself these questions; are my customers on it? What do I hope to achieve? And finally, who’s going to produce regular engaging content for it?

DAN SAGER FOUNDED THE FAB-BIKER PR agency in 1996 and has been advising businesses in the motorcycle industry on marketing matters ever since. Here he shares some of the most important lessons he’s learned during that time. fab-biker.co.uk

Expert advice to improve how you promote and sell productsyour servicesor

Navigating social media risks in the workplace

Social media can be a powerful tool for many businesses. However, its use by employees creates a real risk for employers, particularly in terms of productivity, confidentiality and the potential for reputational damage. Employers must carefully consider their expectations around employee social media use and how they communicate them to employees.

RISKS THAT ARISE IN THE WORKPLACE

It’s easy to see that employees can be distracted by social media while at work –especially by their own accounts – with the follow-on detrimental impact on productivity. While employees may connect with co-

workers in the online world to enhance relationships, as Mark Stevens, a senior associate at VWV LLP, notes, unfortunately, “these online interactions can create the potential for inappropriate behaviour and online bullying and harassment.”

Facebook and Twitter are two well-known platforms where users can express their personal views for others to see. As Stevens has witnessed first-hand, employees not only have the ability to post controversial comments and opinions, and often do so, such messages can very quickly spread. He says that “where inappropriate, controversial or offensive comments or viewpoints are shared, members of the public could very

easily associate those comments or points of view with the company which employed that individual, thus damaging its reputation.”

Of course, many use social media platforms as a tool for marketing. However, the line between personal and professional accounts can become blurred. This is why Stevens says that “employers should ensure that employees with responsibility for running a business social media account use it in a professional way, and not as though it is their own personal account.”

TRIBUNAL CASES BROUGHT

Interestingly, Stevens highlights a fair amount of case law around the subject – Whitham v Club 24 Limited t/a Ventura in 2010, Trasler v B&Q in 2012, British Waterways Board v Smith in 2015, and Gibbins v British Council in 2017.

Employers need to be careful about the use of social media by staff in the workplace and elsewhere in their own time

Notably, social media cases have fallen considerably over the last five years, which may be testimony to the measures employers are putting in place to guard against its misuse. However, those cases that have come before the tribunals have resulted in conflicting decisions, reflecting how factspecific these types of cases are.

In essence, Stevens outlines that “case law has shown that dismissals in situations where the reputational damage is minimal to non-existent are invariably unfair. However, more damaging allegations can see a dismissal

with Adam Bernstein www.abfeatures.com

should set boundaries and define acceptable and unacceptable use and behaviour, as this will prevent any ambiguity around social media use amongst employees.

Stevens often advises employers writing a policy to detail how employees should portray themselves online; what social media accounts are deemed acceptable, especially in the workplace; whether personal social media accounts can be used during working hours; the difference in using company social media accounts and personal social media accounts; and guidance on how employee’s activity on

used or accessed outside of work or using the employee’s own equipment.” He also says that the policy should make it clear that accounts set to ‘private’ should still adhere to the requirements of the policy.

It is likely that employers will have other policies that may have a bearing on a social media policy. As a result, Stevens advises that these other policies, for example, disciplinary and grievance, bullying and harassment and data protection, are “all updated in line with any social media policy that is written.”

Beyond policies, there is the desire for employers to avoid employees accessing social media accounts – at all – in the workplace. Where this is the case, Stevens recommends employers apply technical measures to block access to these sites from company devices and its network.

ONLY GOING SO FAR

Finally, there’s the matter of training for HR teams and managers, as this is an important part of ensuring compliance with policies. “Employers,” says Stevens, “must be careful about monitoring employees in the workplace; this should not go further than necessary, and employers should avoid implementing restrictions which are intrusive or unreasonable – it is a balancing act that employers must carefully undertake.”

found to be fair. And in one case, a dismissal was found to be fair even though the post stayed online for seven months without reputational harm.” That said, the award to the employee was cut by 60% because of his actions that led to the case being brought.

IMPORTANCE OF A SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

It’s clear to Stevens that these cases illustrate the importance of a good social media policy. In his view, “employers should have an enforceable social media policy in place in order to minimise the potential risks that come as a result of using social media in and out of the workplace.” He adds that the policy

personal social media accounts can be linked back and associated with the company.

The policy should also highlight expectations when sharing company information online and the extent to which this is prohibited. It should also make mention of the disciplinary measures that could be taken if policies are breached, which could include dismissal on the grounds of gross misconduct, particularly if the conduct damages the employer’s reputation.

In Stevens’ eyes, it’s also vital that “the policy makes clear that it applies not only to use of social media sites using the employer’s equipment but equally to social media sites

He warns that “human rights legislation provides individuals with the right to respect for private and family life and correspondence, and this could be contravened by monitoring.” Also, employees could argue that scrutinising their social monitoring postings could be discriminatory. Proportionality and consistent treatment of employees is therefore important.

SUMMARY

Social media is a part of society whether we like it or not. Employers have no choice but to live with it, which means applying thought to how it’s to be managed within the workplace. 

Employers should have an enforceable social media policy in place

Products

The latest products for your showroom

Mivv for R7 4 ITALIAN EXHAUST MANUFACTURER

ASV C5 levers

A NEW FITMENT FOR THE omnipresent BMW R1200/1250 GS models, the CNCmilled aluminium ASV C5 brake and clutch levers feature an adjustable span with no less than 180 bar-to-lever distance options These are selected using a lever-mounted thumbwheel, and allow up to 4in of variation to accommodate hands of all sizes. A special pivot design means that the levers will pivot outwards and spring back if the bike suffers a crash or fall, reducing the risk of costly replacements. They come in standard or “shorty” (1.25in shorter) versions, in a choice of black with red thumbwheel or gold or grey with a black thumbwheel for an SRP of £149, or in a two-tone finish with post-anodising machined parts for £159, both with a five-year warranty. Performance Parts; 01327 706139; enquiries@performanceparts-ltd.com

Mivv is now offering systems to suit Yamaha’s middleweight R7. The SR1 is a road legal, Euro 5 compliant system made from stainless steel with a titanium end can in a choice of black or natural finishes with a carbon weave end cap. Mivv says the entire system will save half a kilo in weight over the stock exhaust, and will add a useful 5.9hp. The second Euro 5 compliant system uses its GP Pro end can, which is TIG welded by hand and has a carbon fibre finish. This system save 1.6kg over OE, and adds 2.4hp.

In addition, Mivv offers a pair of track systems which are freed from from the shackles of Euro 5 legislation. The all-stainless SR1 system adds 5.2hp and 5.5Nm of extra torque while shedding 2.3kg, and the MK3 utilises Mivv’s MotoGP experience for the stainless steel pipework and its gloss finish carbon fibre end can. This adds 7hp and saves 3.8kg compared to OE kit.

Moto.GB Distribution; 01706 212102; mivv@gmail.com

Knox waterproofs 5

KNOX HAS UPDATED SOME OF ITS RANGE OF WATERPROOF SHELL jackets, designed to be worn over Knox armoured shirts and base layers in a mix-n-match outfit to suit any climatic conditions. All are made from a new tri-laminate polyester material with a 15k-rated waterproof and breathable membrane (the 15k rating means it is suited to prolonged exposure in heavy rain) with sealed seams. The thin, armour-free nature of the shells mean that they can be shaken dry and packed away in the supplied carry bags when they are not required, making them ideal for trips where conditions can vary wildly. The Welbeck Mk2 is the men’s shell jacket, which features a concealed hood for off-bike use, waist and cuff adjustment and a pair of interior pockets. It is available in black in sizes S-5XL for an SRP of £149.99. For the ladies the Willow duplicates the Welbeck’s features but in a women’s-specific cut. It is also in black, in sizes XS-2XL for an SRP of £149.99. Lastly, to finish off the outfit there are the Walker waterproof trousers, which are a unisex design which in Mk2 form have improved fit and an elasticated waistband, plus reflective panels for improved visibility. Available in black, in sizes S-3XL for an SRP of £129.99.

Knox; 01900 825825; sales@planet-knox.com

Lexmoto XDV 300

LEXMOTO PREVIEWED THE XDV 300 adventure-touring scooter at Motorcycle Live back in 2022, but it has now landed upon these shores in showroom-ready specification. The XDV 300 is powered by a 25hp single with CVT transmission which will whisk it to 80mph, and is equipped with long travel suspension with adjustable rear shocks provided by KYB. Tech isn’t forgotten, with a 5in full-colour screen for the dashboard, along with LED lighting, a tyre pressure monitoring system, heated grips and dual channel ABS. The touring aspect of the package is fulfilled with plenty of storage – the underseat compartment is large enough to stow a helmet, with capacity bolstered by the large aluminium panniers and top box. The XDV is only available in metallic blue, for a retail price of £4699+OTR. Lexmoto; 0844 567 8887; sales@llexeter.co.uk

Axor helmets 54

SOUTH COAST DISTRIBUTOR BIKE IT HAS SIGNED UP as the exclusive UK distributor of Italian value-focused helmet brand Axor. The Axor range consists of the fullface Rage and Apex models, the adventure style X-Cross and the open-face Retro Jet, all with ECE and DOT certification.

The Rage is an entry-level lid with an ABS shell, but it still manages to pack in an integrated spoiler, removable and washable liner, and Bluetooth intercom compatibility for its £44.99 SRP. It also features a threeport ventilation system, micrometric buckle fastening and an optically correct visor. It comes in sizes S-XXL in gloss white or matt black.

The Apex is billed as a sport-touring helmet, and adds more ventilation ports, a Pinlock 30 anti-fog insert and a double-D ring fastening to its ABS shell, on top of all the Rage’s features. It also comes in matt black or gloss white in sizes S-XXL, and has an SRP of £79.99.

The X-Cross brings motocross-with-a-visor styling and

a splash of colour to the range. It features an adjustable peak, wide-aperture scratch-proof visor, a drop-down tinted sun visor and a five-port ventilation system, along with Bluetooth compatibility and a removable and washable liner. Sizes are S-XXL, and it comes in matt black or blue/ yellow for an SRP of £79.99. Last, and least in terms of features, is the Retro Jet – an open-face lid with a heritage-style fibreglass shell to complement cruisers, cafe racers and classic scooters. It features a hypo-allergenic liner and genuine leather trims and interiors, along with an optically correct visor, micrometric buckle fastening. It comes only in matt black, with a choice of black or tan trim, in sizes S-XXL for an SRP of £44.99. Bike It; 02380 658700; tradesales@bikeit.co.uk

Stylmartin Vertigo Air

WE LOOKED AT STYLMARTIN’S VERTIGO WP walking boot/motorcycle boot in the March issue of BDN, and now the Italian brand has launched a summer-weight version which replaces the waterproof membrane with copious amounts of mesh for improved airflow to keep feet cool and dry when the mercury rises. The Air features a suede and mesh upper with a breathable liner and a microperforated footbed with an anti-shock cushioning system for improved walking comfort. For biking duties, the Air has D3O ankle guards and leather gearshift reinforcement. It comes in a choice of mud brown or grey colourways in Euro sizes 38-47. Dot4Distribution; 0203 514 2413; info@dot4distribution.com

Comfort seat for KTM 3

TOURATECH HAS LAUNCHED A NEW VERSION OF ITS COMFORT seat to suit the KTM 1290 Super Adventure. It uses a high-strength foam core sculpted to remove annoying edges and produce a balanced riding position, covered with a sand-textured bi-elastic material with a Fresh Touch coating, which increases the material’s reflection of sunlight, claiming to keep it up to 10oC cooler. Seams are positioned to prevent pressure points, sealed to avoid water soaking into the foam, and are bright orange to match the KTM corporate colours. The Comfort seat comes in a choice of three heights for an SRP of €440.29.

Touratech; +49 7728 9279-0; info@touratech.de

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Rage Apex

X-Cross

Retro Jet

ISLAND RACER

MORTONS MEDIA HAS A NEW EDITION OF Island Racer for fans of the Isle of Man TT to gen up on the riders and teams competing in the 2023 event. Lap record holder Peter Hickman is profiled and interviewed about his racing successes, Michael Rutter tells how he transformed the Yamaha R7 into a competitive race machine and Triumph’s Island history is examined. SRP is £8.99.

Mortons Media; 01507 529529; www.classicmagazines.co.uk

Axxis extends range 5

BICKERS HAS BEEN WORKING WITH THE AXXIS RANGE OF HELMETS for a few months now, and has just added the new Hawk Evo SV full-face lid to the range. Featuring an ECE 22.06-certified thermoplastic shell with a variable density shock absorbing layer and a padded anti-allergenic liner, the Hawk Evo is said to be oriented 80% racing, 100% sport touring and 50% urban usage – that’s 230% of helmet for the price of one! Other features include a Pinlock-ready polycarbonate visor, drop-down sunvisor, micrometric fastening strap and it is Bluetooth intercom ready. It comes in a choice of 10 colours, in sizes XXSXXL for an SRP of £167.99 for solid colours, £179.99 for graphic options.

Slightly further up the range is the Racer GP, another full face lid but this one has an aerodynamically sculpted ECE/DOT-certified carbon fibre shell in three sizes, paired with a multi-density polystyrene inner core and an anti-allergic fabric lining, which is removable and washable. The Racer GP’s visor comes with a 2.2mm thick 100% max vision screen and is ready to take racer-style tear offs. It also comes with a locking mechanism, a Pinlock anti-fog insert and a visor pivoting mechanism for optimum closing. The Racer GP is available in a choice of matt grey or fluo yellow graphics in sizes S-XXL for an SRP of £299.99.

FUEL FILTER

OXFORD HAS ADDED A NEW VERSION OF ITS alloy fuel filter suitable for 8mm piping. The body is CNC machined aluminium, with a sintered bronze filter element, and it can be fitted in-line in a matter of seconds. It comes in an anodised black finish, with a spare filter element, for an SRP of £12.99.

Oxford Prods; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

Bickers; 01394 604040; sales@bickers-online.co.uk

Dainese Seeker Gore-Tex

A RUFTY-TUFTY FULL-LENGTH ADVENTURE TOURING BOOT, THE Seeker Gore-Tex is made with a combination of full-grain leather with split leather inserts for the uppers and a Groundtrax grippy rubber sole. A GoreTex membrane ensures the boots remain waterproof in challenging conditions, but also allows feet to breathe. Protection comes in the form of Flex Dynamic Armour injected TPU frontal protection, Pro-Armor shin protectors and rigid inserts on the ankles, which allows the boots to achieve its CE Cat II rating. The Seekers come in a choice of black or black/green, in EU sizes 38-48 for an SRP of £399.95.

Nevis Marketing; info@nevis.uk.com

YAMAHA NEO’S

YAMAHA’S NEO’S AND NEO’S DUAL BATTERY electric scooter models have been given a splash of colour with a new Aqua paint option, which joins the Midnight black and Milky white finishes already available on the 50cc-equivilent machines.

Yamaha; 0203 027 5116; www.yamaha-motor.eu

Clarke CML6 lift 4

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER CLARKE HAS DEVELOPED A new mechanical motorcycle table lift. A simple scissor-action mechanism is capable of lifting a bike up to 500kg to a maximum height of 400mm off of the floor. The top platform is fitted with a pair of adjustable U-shaped supports to fit around frame down tubes. It is finished in red powdercoat and has an SRP of £89.99.

Machine Mart; 0115 956 5555; sales@machinemart.co.uk

Revolt regulators

RM STATOR HAS RELEASED A new range of regulator rectifiers called Revolt. Made in the USA, the Revolt is said to run 50% cooler than OEM kit due to using top-quality components and being CNC machined from aluminium billet, with numerous cooling fins to maximise surface area and provide optimal heat transfer from internal components to the air. The Revolt range covers a multitude of bikes and comes with a lifetime warranty for its £511.30 SRP.

Moto-Electrical; 01953 603 420; sales@motoelectrical.co.uk

GBRacing logos

56

GBRACING HAS IMPROVED THE printing process for the logo blocks on its protective engine covers after customers complained that they could wear off after regular cleaning. The new block uses a hightemperature pad printing technique that is claimed to be almost impossible to remove.

The new method will be use on all GBRacing engine covers going forward, but customers wanting to renovate existing covers can purchase the uprated blocks for £2.99 for a pack of three.

GBRacing; 020 8275 2630; enquiries@gbracing.eu

Axxis Hawk Evo

Axxis Racer GP

Oxford Bomber

FOR THE URBAN RIDER WANTING IMPACT AND weather protection combined with a casual jacket that can be worn to the pub without causing sideways glances, Oxford’s classic Bomber jacket fits the bill. The Bomber has a waterproof Dry2Dry laminate outer shell and a fixed diamond quilted lining with 100gsm insulation. There is CE level 1 armour fitted at the shoulders and elbows, plus a back protector pocket, supplemented by reflective printing to improve visibility. The Bomber comes in sizes S-5XL in a choice of black or beige for an SRP of £179.99.

Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

Motorbike finance solutions

Offer

AF Rayspeed RB20 5

A KIT TO TAKE LAMBRETTA SMALL BLOCK 125-175CC MOTORS OUT TO a more competitive 200cc, the Rayspeed RB20 claims to be one of the most advanced available. It includes the 66mm bore cylinder, a Wossner piston kit, a four-petal dual reed block, gaskets and an inlet manifold suitable for a 34mm carb. Bolt all that lot together with a 58mm stroke crank and fit it with a 116mm conrod and you achieve the promised 200cc. The Rayspeed kit fits Lambretta GP; Series 1, 2 or 3; SX and TV models and has a retail price of £435.

VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com

Dane Padborg gloves

DANE’S PADBORG GLOVES ARE MADE from a combination of goat leather and polyamide with a Gore-Tex liner for wind and waterproofness. The inner lining and waterproof membrane are attached to the outer fabric with special tape which claims to reduce friction as well as provide improved grip. Impacton flexible soft-shell protection is provided at the knuckles, along with foam reinforcements on the fingers and a double thickness of leather on the palm. Other features include Scotchlite reflective piping for increased visibility, a visor wiper on the index finger and touchscreen compatible fingertips. They come in sizes S-3XL for an SRP of £149.

Dot4Distribution; 0203 514 2413; info@dot4distribution.com

competitive rates and a straightforward finance journey that your customers can trust in. For intermediaries only.

Kappa Vespa bags 45

ITALIAN ACCESSORIES BRAND KAPPA HAS launched a range of chic fabric bags to give some light luggage capabilities to classic Vespa scooters. There are four bags in the range, each available in a choice of 600D polyester or PU leather with contrast stitching decoration. The largest bag is the 14.5 litre tunnel bag, which clamps to the scooter’s bodywork between the rider’s feet using a quartet of magnets. It has an inside pocket for documents and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. SRP is €169, or €189 for the PU leather version. The similarly capacious “Rugby” tunnel bag is the most distinctive bag in the range thanks to its oval shape, which allows it to nestle into the central tunnel of the bike where a pair of winglets equipped with powerful magnets holds it securely in place. IT features two side pockets, shoulder strap and a carry handle. SRP is €139 or €149. Aping the looks of a rack-mounted spare wheel, the circular “Spare” bag has a 10 litre capacity and fixes to the rear rack using adjustable straps. SRP is €99 or €119. At the opposite end of the scooter, the little 4 litre day bag has numerous pockets and compartments for everyday stuff, and a pair of magnets to secure it to the front of the fairing. SRP is €69 or €79. Hoco Parts UK; 01484 641073; info@hocoparts.co.uk

Weise Drift

WE PREVIEWED THE DRIFT IN OUR December issue round-up of The Key Collection’s 2023 launches, and it is now available in showrooms. The AA-rated casual riding jacket is made with a laminated waterproof and breathable membrane for weather protection, and there is a removable 100gsm quilted thermal liner for riding through the winter. A detachable hood improves practicality during off-bike use. CE-approved armour is fitted at the shoulders and elbows and there is a back protector as standard, and there is a total of four pockets for stashing phone, keys and other paraphernalia, including a zipped one on the left cuff for bank cards or similar. The jacket’s all-black styling is alleviated with reflective piping across the back, and it comes in sizes S-5XL for an SRP of £199.99. The Key Collection; 01179 719200; sales@thekeycollection.co.uk

LS2 All Terrain 3

The new LS2 All Terrain gloves are a short-cuff design made from a combination of lightweight stretch textile and perforated goatskin leather, which is doublelayered to provide abrasion protection in key areas. There are TPU protectors across the knuckles and padded reinforcement at the base of the hand and over the scaphoid area. A hook and loop closure secures the gloves in place, and there are touchscreen-compatible index fingers. They come in men’s sizes S-2XL or ladies’ sizes XS-L in plain black, black/blue, black/hivis yellow, or grey/red, for an SRP of £49.99. LS2 Helmets UK; 01670 856342; ukservice@ls2helmets.com

Garibaldi G07X 5

THE GARIBALDI G07X IS A NEW RETRO STYLED FULL FACE HELMET evoking the shapes and designs of the 1970s, with a composite fibreglass shell (in two sizes) and a multi-density EPS impact absorbing layer. These combine to let the G07X achieve the ECE 22.06 standard. Inside is a hypoallergenic liner, with channels for spectacle arms and recesses to take comms system speakers, behind a Pinlock-ready 3mm-thick anti-scratch visor. It comes in sizes XS-XXL in solid matt black or matt grey for £170 SRP, or in black or white Sedona graphics for £195 SRP. Dot4Distribution; 0203 514 2413; info@dot4distribution.com

Givi Maxia 5 54

THE NEW FIFTH GENERATION VERSION OF GIVI’S LARGEST CAPACITY TOP BOX IS A complete redesign, giving it futuristic and distinctive looks, but maintaining its predecessors’ load-lugging capabilities with a 58-litre capacity (plenty big enough for a pair of helmets). Thanks to a new moulding process, the Maxia 5 weighs only 5.4kg despite its considerable dimensions, and the undercut tooling used does away with the need for strengthening ribs to maximise the usable load space. Other new features include a double hook lock for greater security and comb-type hinges which allow the lid to ‘hold’ in the open position, negating the need for restraining cords. The case comes with a choice of aluminium or gloss black finish for the four decorative panels and optional extras include a foam backrest,a document holder and model-specific interior bag. SRP is £424.60. Givi UK; 01327 706220; info@givi.co.uk

DIAGNOSTIC SOLUTIONS FOR MOTORCYCLE WORKSHOPS

Having an adequate diagnostic tool is essential in order to remain competitive in the motorcycle repair market and to be ready for the developments that will be introduced. TEXA’s diagnostic tools allow technicians to solve more faults in less time with our Multi-brand solutions. You can request a no obligation demonstration today by contacting marketing.uk@texa.com.

Ring cordless inflator

IDEAL FOR CHANGING TYRE PRESSURES TRACKSIDE, OR IN THE FIELD at motocross and enduro events, or even just for the touring rider who likes to be prepared for any eventuality, the Ring RTC4000 is a compact rechargeable pump which will work on bikes, cars or bicycles. It can inflate a 15in car tyre in around six minutes, so a motorcycle tyre should be far quicker than that, and the backlit digital display includes a memory function to store up to four vehicles’ pressure requirements. The digital autostop feature will automatically stop inflating the tyre when the desired pressure is reached, and there is a deflator valve to get the pressure spoton. The unit is charged via the supplied USB-C cable and comes with a storage bag and three adaptors for an SRP of £55.

Ring Automotive; www.ringautomotive.com.

DesertX protection 5

SW-MOTECH HAS RELEASED AN EXTENSIVE RANGE of protective products for Ducati’s DesertX adventure bike. Tellingly, the press release references the danger of car park drops before the risks of pranging it on the trail – they certainly know their market. The range includes an upper crash bar made from powder coated steel tube to guard the fairing and fuel tank (SRP £198.72) and an engine guard which protects the sump and cylinder casing made from 4mm aluminium sheet (£293.76). There is also a CNC milled alloy cover for the water pump (SRP £94.96), polyamide sliders for the front axle (SRP £67.96) and aluminium handguards with replaceable polypropylene shells (SRP £147.95). To improve practicality, and to reduce the chance of dropping the bike, there is also a centre stand (£211.68) and an alloy sidestand foot extender (£54.95). SW Motech; 01256 704909; info@motohaus.com

Furygan back protector

THE NEW FURYGAN D3O RACING BACK protector offers maximum safety for racers and trackday enthusiasts without compromising comfort. It uses the familiar D3O flexible soft armour, making it lightweight and improving mobility on the bike, and has adjustable shoulder and chest straps, all of which combine to achieve CE level-2 protection levels. It is available in three sizes at an SRP of £134.99. Furygan UK; 01489 582707; www.furygan.co.uk

Shark Skwal i3

SHARK’S SKWAL HELMET HAS BEEN updated with a new “intelligent” rear mounted LED brake light. The first Skwal was launched in 2015 with a simple switchable LED light to provide extra visibility for riders at night or in poor conditions, and the latest version builds on that technology with a set of front-mounted white LEDs and a red rear LED which automatically flashes under braking to warn drivers behind. The lights are powered by a rechageable battery which gives up to 12 hours of use from a three hour charge via the supplied USB-C cable.

Other features of the Skwal i3 include a polycarbonate shell in two sizes, fitted with a dropdown sun visor and a Pinlock-equipped anti-scratch visor. The Skwal comes in a choice of 13 solid and graphic options with prices starting from £239 SRP. Nevis Marketing; 01425 478936; info@nevis.uk.com

MT-10 panels 5

PYRAMID PLASTICS HAS launched a new set of infill panels for Yamaha’s super naked MT-10 to fill the obvious gap in the bike’s bodywork behind the radiator and below the air intake. Made from fibreglass, the panels can be bought unpainted for an SRP of £129.99, or colour-matched to the Cyan Storm or SP 2022 colour schemes for £229.99. Other factory colour schemes are said to be in the pipeline.

Pyramid Plastics; 01427 677990; sales@pyramid-plastics.co.uk

Enfield DNA filter

ROYAL-ENFIELD’S SUPER

Meteor cruiser has been added to the fitment list for DNA’s range of high performance air filters. The new cylindrical filter claims efficiency of 98%, which allows it to flow 80% more air than the OE filter. SRP is €82.90. DNA Filters; info@dnafilters.com

Richa Phantom 3

THE PHANTOM 3 IS A MID-PRICED JACKET FEATURING AN 8000MM waterproof Aquashell LTZ breathable membrane and a removable thermal liner, making it suitable for use in all weathers. For hotter days riding there is an extensive ventilation system covering key areas, with zipped vents on the lower sleeves to adjust airflow. Protection comes from the CE level 1 D3O soft armour fitted at the shoulders and elbows, which can be upgraded to level 2 if required, and a back protector and optional D3O chest protector. The Phantom 3 comes in men’s sizes S-6XL in black, black/grey and black/yellow or ladies’ sizes S-4XL in black or black/yellow for an SRP of £199.99.

Nevis Marketing; 01425 478936; info@nevis.uk.com

HJC RPHA 1 colours 64

HJC HAS ADDED A NEW £849.99 REPLICA

livery to the road version of its RPHA 1 full-bore race helmet to celebrate the signing of MotoGP 2021 World Champion Fabio Quartararo as a sponsored rider. As a race helmet, the RPHA doesn’t have the creature comforts of most road-biased lids, but instead has plenty of ventilation, an anti pop off and double locking visor system and a wind-tunnel optimised shell with a huge rear spoiler. Also available for non-Fabio fans is a new urbancamo style graphic called Nomaro in black/ red/silver or white/red/blue for a slightly cheaper £699.99. Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

On the Money

Hardly an attentiongrabber as far as Isle of Man TT advance press releases go, a missive concerning sponsorship retention nevertheless sparked my interest several weeks before this year’s extravaganza. Who knew that the TT required an Official Life Assurance and Pensions Partner? Well, it’s got one now.

RL360 has just been awarded this accolade after signing up for another three years as title sponsor of TT Superstock races. No matter that the average TT fan doesn’t have a clue how this obscurely-entitled corporate entity actually earns a living and will be completely disengaged in finding out, RL360 lolly has been landing regularly in race budget coffers since 2002. And long may such generosity continue. In return, apart from broadcast ID-checks, it will also benefit from numerous points of trackside branding and advertising coverage on the TT’s live-streamed digital TV channel.

RL360 chief executive David Kneeshaw was effusive about this extended link: “Our appetite for involvement with the TT hasn’t faded since we began our association 21 years ago,” he said. “Being a part of something so synonymous with the Isle of Man is a great source of pride, as the island is our home too.” An ongoing relationship is also

bolstered by the fact that his financial and commercial director Mike Crellin is a former bike racer.

So what is RL360? Definitely not just another broker that wants to see its name up in TT lights, like the past presence of motorcycle insurer Bennetts, and a debut appearance for Carole Nash as Official Insurance Partner this year. Accurate billing is a privately-held international offshore savings, protection

Don’t for a moment assume that I’m being critical. My own expatriate escape to Mona’s fair isle from HMRC’s cruel grasp, more than a quarter of a century ago, involved similar motivation. I do find RL360’s solitary TT partner status among the legion of now perfectly respectable Manx-based offshore financial services providers unfortunate, though. Fun as they were, the days of simply laundering loot are behind us. More of them should

corporate investors”. It buys, sells and provides vault storage on behalf of suitably minted account holders.

IMGold managing director Ed Pearce saw the three-year deal he concluded as “the perfect opportunity to support a great event on the Island” – suggesting altruism rather than any hardnosed persuasion for MGP fans loaded down with granny’s scrap jewellery collection to knock on his impregnable vault doors. Harvey Garton, chairman of the MGP promoting Manx Motorcycle Club at that time, said this tie-up was beyond the MMC’s wildest dreams. Perhaps he anticipated golden paddock paving.

and investment provider, headquartered in the Isle of Man but serving clients in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, the UK and Latin America.

The RL360 accent has dedicated “offshore” focus in what is essentially a complex wealth management business offering tax efficiency (which means not paying very much) to high-net-worth individuals distancing themselves from more rigorous jurisdictions. Weasel words such as “avoidance” or “evasion” have been mercifully abolished from the Manx lexicon.

be legitimate contributors to selfpromotion through a national treasure.

The last local conspicuouswealth input related to Mountain Course sporting heroism I can recall was the Manx Grand Prix’s headline remonikering with an IMGold prefix in 2014. The trading name of a local bullion depository hidden away at the business district’s heart in Manx capital Douglas, IMGold is owned and operated by Isle of Man Bullion, styled as “a global boutique precious metals trading service for personal and

Anyway, after the contract expired in 2016, Pearce failed to renew. Comedians equated his decision with a growing influx of rich white South Africans seeking residence on the Isle of Man, and their arrival with huge sacks of Krugerrands (each coin comprising one troy ounce of pure gold) as currency of choice in urgent need of secure storage. So IMGold had to put up the “no vacancies” sign on its shelf space and forget about publicity.

There have been other sources of effectively homespun funding support for the TT in recent years. PokerStars, the largest “real money” online poker site in the world, moved its HQ to the

International Share Prices

USA – RUNNING OUT OF MONEY

New York markets swerved around on a daily basis as policymakers squabbled over an imminent risk of reaching the US Treasury debt ceiling and funds for Federal salaries hitting tilt.

By Friday, share indices were on a downward curve, but managed to close on various degrees of positivity. The blue-chip S&P 500 and tech-heavy NASDAQ Composite turned in the strongest performances, respectively finishing 1.6% and 3% up. The Dow Jones Industrial Average suffered most, in black ink by a mere 0.4%. S&P’s MidCap 400 added 1%. Bike-related equities were generally resilient, apart from Harley-Davidson and LiveWire, both of which shredded value. Harley’s rolling month of share price decline has now stretched to a double-digit percentage loss.

EUROPE – BAD IS GOOD

Germany’s Zew indicator, a metric of economic sentiment for the eurozone’s biggest industrial player, plummeted in the first half of May. But, paradoxically, investors decided bad news for the economy was good news for interest rates, in so far as it will discourage the European Central Bank from increasing them. So after an initial stutter, Frankfurt’s Xetra Dax had stacked on 2.3% in value by close of play on Friday.

In Italy, traders were more tentative. However, the FTSE MIB index in Milan still managed to rise 0.7%. Motorcycle-related shares at both ends of the eurozone spectrum were all positive, with BMW and Piaggio posting the best gains.

JAPAN – SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE

Japanese GDP grew twice as fast in

the first quarter of this year than analysts had predicted, as Asia’s most advanced economy finally escaped a post-Covid technical recession. Equities briefly surged to a 33-year high before Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 index eventually settled on a still spectacular 4.8% weekly gain. The inconvenient fact that recovery was over-stated, with an actual fall in exports and weaker manufacturing data, didn’t trouble investors too much.

Among motorcycle producers, Honda was by far the biggest beneficiary of stock market euphoria. Yamaha, which had undershot Q1 estimates, and Suzuki weren’t invited to the party at all.

INDIA – FICKLE TRADING

Mumbai’s BSE Sensex market average had to cope with a hangover from midMay excitement, sinking by 0.5%. The majority of

The average TT fan doesn’t have a clue how this obscurely-entitled corporate entity actually earns a living and will be completely disengaged in finding out

Market analysis with financial editor Roger Willis

Isle of Man in 2005. The parental Stars Group had previously been dodging wire-fraud legal pursuit from powerful bricks-and-mortar casino interests in the USA and regarded the Island as a safe haven – and conveniently taxefficient.

PokerStars started buying into TT race title sponsorships from 2007 onwards, at various times adding the brand to Supersport, Superbike and most consistently Senior slots. Somewhere during a long and fruitful meeting of minds and wallets, it became Official Gaming Partner. I’m sure we were all very grateful that it was prepared to push a few more punters into penury to keep TT grids throbbing financially.

In little more than a decade,

PokerStars became the doyen of a nascent Manx e-gaming industry, which has grown into one of the Island’s largest white-collar employers. However, businesses

Flutter International, owner of gigantic global bookmaker Paddy Power, in 2020.

Flutter still has a substantial footprint on the Island, with

roads motorcycle races as a promotional route for wider betting activities.

never stand still. Stars Group ended TT promotions after backing the 2018 Senior race and was then acquired in a reputed $6bn takeover by Dublin-based

hundreds of PokerStars staff at King Edward Bay offices in the Douglas suburb of Onchan. But a major part of the operation has transferred to another welcoming and tax-efficient jurisdiction in Malta. And pertinent to the TT, new Irish management seems to have lost interest in real-

In an absence of such input, the event is obviously poorer, although the Isle of Man remains absolutely awash with dosh generated by aspects of its sometimes controversial offshore status. Future TT funding is likely to be found from that direction, rather than old-school donations by motorcycle manufacturers or parts purveyors. (When I first reached Manx shores, the course was lined with spark-plug banners). TT visitors should take a walk down Athol Street in Douglas, admiring the discreet brass plates on otherwise anonymous office premises. The smell of money is carefully concealed, but nevertheless intense. 

motorcycling majors turned negative as this burst of casino mentality ebbed. A loss for Royal Enfield parent Eicher was the most surprising. During the previous week, Eicher’s share price had gone ballistic, leaping more than 8%, after the company announced it was ploughing a fresh £97m investment into its booming bike business.

CHINA – HARD TIMES FOR EXPORT

Chinese investor sentiment deteriorated as Western nations seek to rein in Chinese presidential despot Xi Jinping’s increasingly aggressive nationalist stance.

Shanghai’s all-share SSE Composite index put on 0.3% and the CSI 300 spanning both Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges managed only 0.2% growth. Share prices for half of the eleven listed Chinese motorcycle manufacturers went backwards.

The Isle of Man remains absolutely awash with dosh generated by aspects of its sometimes controversial offshore status

France

Top Ten Manufacturers

Rolling Year Comparison

Registrations rot sets in

WIDESPREAD ANECDOTAL evidence during April had already pointed to an increasing scarcity of showroom footfall, now confirmed by a significant slump in MCIA statistical data as we move into what is supposed to be the peak selling season. BDN financial editor Roger Willis reports.

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

2023 motorcycle registrations data from key European markets

Results surpass pre-pandemic levels

THE FIRST QUARTER DATA FOR the biggest European motorcycle markets was largely positive, with all except the UK showing overall growth compared to the previous year. Overall, the motorcycle sector increased by 15.4%, but the electric sector only rose 1.2%, due to underperforming UK (-58.1%) and Spanish (-25.6%) markets dragging back burgeoning German sales (which were up 89.9%).

Mopeds didn’t fare well, with the sector’s biggest markets (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Spain) falling by 24.5%.

Commenting on the figures, Antonio Perlot, ACEM secretary

general, said: “The first quarter results must be interpreted cautiously, considering the significance of spring and summer for the European PTW market. Although there were considerable fluctuations when compared to the same period in 2022, Q1 data confirms a growing trend of users favouring motorcycles and scooters to mopeds. This shift supports both urban and short-range mobility, as well as a sustained interest in leisure riding. Thus far, the figures seem to align with long-term, pre-Covid trends. A more definitive outlook for 2023 will emerge as Q2 and Q3 data becomes available”.

Overall registrations sank by 13.1% to 9848, more or less on par with pre-pandemic numbers for 2019’s fourth month. Motorcycles were 5.4% down to 7515. Scooters plunged by 31.3% to 1841 and mopeds lost 35.5% at 401. For what it’s worth, some 91 trikes represented growth of 16.7%.

Across all petrolhead capacity classes, volume was 11.6% lower on 9512. Up-to125cc products spanning basic mobility, entrylevel and delivery-fleet destinations took the most punishment, falling by 28.3% to 3128.

The 126-500cc and 501-750cc sectors respectively suffered relatively minor declines of 3.3% to 1587 and 1.7% to 1379. However, 751-1000cc machines, boosted by an influx of attractive new budgetpriced steeds such as Honda’s CB750 Hornet, improved by 15.2% to 1747. Premium over-1000cc machines dropped by 8.8% to 1671. Uninterrupted deterioration for the battery-electric market saw shrinkage of 40.9% to a mere 336 units.

Available inventory, or lack of it, clearly skewed performance for best-selling brands. Honda topped the rankings as usual, but was 11.4% down despite three highest-registered models in their respective engine bands. Runner-up Yamaha copped a 15.4% retreat. Triumph occupied the final step of the podium with a 4.1% rise.

Having probably overcome supply-issue hangovers from March’s new plate, KTM put on 43.3% and BMW added 37.6%, to complete the top five. Conversely, Royal Enfield was 24.7% in arrears, even though its Super Meteor 650 twin and bargainbasement HNTR 350 earned various sales accolades. And similarly, Kawasaki’s headcount plummeted by 35.5%, despite a decent Ninja 1000SX showing. In both cases, a paucity of stock would have been the excuse.

Ducati made a guest appearance in eighth spot, without benefit of any year-on-year comparison. Suzuki, now helped by some desirable and budget-oriented bikes, followed with an 8.2% gain. Lexmoto was tail-ender, a painful 48.7% down.

After finishing Q1 in marginal negativity, total year-to-date registrations are now 4.2% lower at 37,870. Mercifully, petrol-fuelled products are only 0.6% adrift.

Anecdotal evidence had already pointed to an increasing scarcity of showroom footfall, now confirmed by a significant slump

April proves to be a difficult month as cost of living crisis widens

The latest Powered Two Wheelers (PTW) registration figures for April 2023 follow the current trend showing a decline in registrations, which can be attributed to the uncertainty around the economy and supply chain issues.

In April, total registrations fell by 4.2% from 11,327 to 9848.

The market sector with the highest selling volume, Naked motorcycles, recorded another consecutive month of growth, rising from 2188 to 2332 (6.6%). Promising growth was also seen in Touring at 242 units (12%), Competition with 638 (8%) and Other Tricycles with 37 units (164%).

Total registrations of Internal Combustion Engine PTWs were down -11.6% (to 9512 units), and Electric PTWs followed suit with a -40.9% reduction compared to April 2022. EPTWs have now plummeted -56.8% for the year to date.

Once again, Honda was the highest registering manufacturer for April with 1859, Yamaha followed with 1101 new bikes hitting the road, and Triumph was in third position with 837 units. The highest registering models were the Honda PCX 125 with 270 units and the Honda CBF 125 M with 180 units.

April was once again a difficult month. The current issues that are facing our country are putting consumer demand at risk. However, NMDA retailers remain confident that the warmer months and summer will boost consumer demand, which is likely to pick up again for the remainder of the year.”

Symon Cook Head of National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA)

Glass’s motorcycle market overview

The latest motorcycle market data published by the Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA) shows that following a month of growth in March, registrations declined by 13.1% in April compared to 2022. As a result, the year-to-date tally now stands 4.2% behind last year. It is unclear if this decline is due to lower consumer confidence as a result of the cost-of-living pressures; however, later spring months should give a clearer indication of the season ahead. Dealer feedback suggests there are two main types of clientele currently: those of an older age demographic who can afford a machine of their choice, and those who are swapping out of their cars in favour of riding as a more economical travel alternative.

Although April was disappointing from a registration perspective, demand and forward orders were apparently reasonably buoyant for most dealers. Stock supply has continued to improve over last year, with dealers having display models and shorter lead times for most machines.

Demand remains generally steady across the board; however, the new Triumph Speed Triple RS and new Honda Hornet have been particularly well received.

USED MOTORCYCLE FEEDBACK

Sales and demand for second-hand machinery were buoyant for most dealers in April, although a few reported slower sales, particularly of later models, as a result of new machines being more readily available this year. Similar to the new market, there are tentative signs of newcomers to the market, including younger riders preferring to take their CBT as a more costeffective alternative to learning to drive. Meanwhile, demand continues to be strong across all segments. Stock is more readily available this year, although some dealers continue to find sourcing quality machines a challenge. However, the majority of dealers are satisfied with their stock levels.

OUTLOOK

With late spring upon us, daylight hours will soon be at their longest. However, May has so far been rather wet for many, making for less-than-ideal riding conditions. That said, despite summer ‘proper’ being yet to arrive, Glass’s expects residual values to remain firm across all segments in the coming weeks.

Paul McDonald Leisure Vehicles Editor

NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE DEALERS ASSOCIATION

Although April was disappointing from a registration perspective, demand and forward orders were apparently reasonably buoyant

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USED MARKET DIVERSITY

Used bike data

What’s hot and what’s not in the used-motorcycle world

NAKED BIKES ACCOUNT FOR OVER A QUARTER OF all sessions in MCN’s industry-leading bike reviews section, and the battle for the most popular is hotting up nicely. Suzuki’s new GSX-8S leads the charge, followed by the perennially popular Yamaha MT-07 and then Honda’s new Hornet CB750.

The Yamaha R7 is the sports bike attracting most readers, followed by the recently updated BMW S1000RR and the Aprilia RS660. In adventure bikes, it’s a Honda washout as the new Transalp XL750 takes top spot, alongside the NC750X and the CRF300 Rally.

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MCN Reviews

Most viewed brands

Over in Bikes for Sale, Honda remains the most popular manufacturer, with the Gold Wing and NC750X taking the top two spots. Yamaha’s R1 is in third place, followed by the Harley-Davidson Fat Boy and the Kawasaki Z900RS. How’s that for a diverse list of bikes? It proves that if you’re hunting for your next bike, whatever type you’re looking for, MCN is the place to find it.

Percentage of views by type

Percentage of views by type

Top 5 Bike Reviews by type

Naked Sports

1. 2023 Suzuki GSX-8S

2. 2021 Yamaha MT-07

3. 2023 Honda CB750 Hornet

4. 2023 Honda CL500

5. 2021 Triumph Trident 660

Adventure Sport

1. 2022 Yamaha R7

2. 2019 BMW S1000 RR

3. 2020 Aprilia RS660

4. 2023 CFMoto 450SR

5. 2011 Suzuki GSX-R750

1. 2023 Honda XL750 Transalp

2. 2014 Honda NC750X

3. 2021 Honda CRF300 Rally

4. 2022 Honda CB500X

5. 2008 BMW F800 GS

GARETH EVANS Online editor, MCN

Used bikes continue to be sought after, with April up 11% year-on-year and recording the second-highest sales volume since 2020 (second to last month). Sectors with the most significant growth in used sales are adventure (+22%) and naked (+12%), with more buyers choosing larger engine capacities (600-1000cc).

April 2023 marked record demand for used electric bikes (up 70% year-on-year). This is likely due to more choice, with 22% more used electric models

USED BIKES SOLD

available for sale – particularly in the £3000-£5000 price range. Although the new EV market is in freefall (-40.9% in April), Auto Trader research shows 46% of its visitors would consider purchasing.

Demand for bikes continues to be robust, with 68% of buyers looking to purchase in the next three months, a 5% increase ahead of April 2022, which is reassuring in the current economic climate.

PAUL EDMONDSON

Product lead, Auto Trader Bikes

MARKET HEALTH YOY

Demand is slightly ahead of April 2022, although with significant increases in year-on-year supply (+31%), market health is -22%. Market Health metric shows: the ratio of supply vs. demand compared to the previous year.

MEDIAN DAYS TO SELL

As we move into peak season, the number of days to sell a bike have reduced, but it still takes longer than in 2022. Demand for motorcycles remains firm, with higher numbers of bikes selling year-on-year. The fastest-selling model for April 2023 was the Honda ST1300 Pan European, which took an average of nine days to sell, closely followed by the Triumph Tiger 660 Sport. In fact, demand for Triumphs was solid, with seven models making the Auto Trader Bikes’ top 20 fastest-selling league table.

The fastest selling bikes on Auto Trader in April

Average number of days advertised before sale

19

Biggest electric brands

Advert views by brand April 2023

10. Govecs 3%

1. Honda ST1300 Pan European

2. Triumph Tiger Sport 660

3. Yamaha MT-07

4. Triumph Thunderbird 1700

5. Triumph Bobber

6. KTM 1290 Super Adventure

7. Honda CBF1000

8. KTM EXC

9. Yamaha FJR1300

10. Triumph Speed Twin

11. Triumph Bonneville T120

12. Moto Guzzi V7

13. Honda CMX500 Rebel

14. Suzuki GSR750

15. Kawasaki Z650 18

16. Honda CBR600RR 19

17. BMW S1000 RR

18. Triumph Sprint ST 1050 20

19. Triumph Tiger 900 20

20. BMW R1200 RS 20.5

Market Watch

Trade & industry report with cap/hpi motorcycle editor Alan Elsworth

NEW MARKET

ALTHOUGH FEEDBACK SUGGESTS LOWER FOOTFALL in showrooms this year, retailers are reporting that customers visiting stores are mostly buyers rather than tyre kickers. Hopefully, the few who are kicking tyres will become buyers in the months ahead! Still, registrations show a decline of 13.1% to 9848, from 11,327 in April last year in the latest MCIA new registration figures.

Drilling down into the figures, it is difficult to find a real positive. The moped sector is continuing its sharp retreat, with both month and year-to-date sales seeing over a third fewer registrations than 2022. After a good performance in March with the new plate, motorcycles were down 12% in April, but there was less of a loss year-to-date, with registrations for the four months down 2.1%. The naked sector represented a quarter of total market share in April.

Again, in the engine size tables, there is little to be optimistic about, except for the 751-1000cc sector, which was up 15.2%. At the opposite end of the capacity scale, the learner legal sub-125cc bands are falling behind the numbers seen during the pandemic as they start to re-align to pre-Covid levels. One positive is that larger capacity machines tend to be bigger ticket and therefore more profitable for dealers.

AUCTION OVERVIEW

ACEM, the European manufacturers association, recently released its Q1 registration numbers for Europe’s Key Markets, giving us a chance to benchmark our domestic market against the top five continental markets, both in ICE and electric sectors. The comparison doesn’t make for pleasant reading, with all the mainland European key markets starting the year off stronger than the UK.

THE AUCTION SYSTEM STILL NEEDS TO SEE LARGER QUANTITIES OF entries, as would have been the case five years ago. The volume of bikes in the system has declined steadily since the shortage of used machines started in the trade during the pandemic, from circa 400 machines per month to around only 200.

A recent big sale involving Black Horse and BMW disposals, via BCA, had a much-reduced entry list (fewer than 70 bikes), but the good news is that it achieved a higher sold rate of 79% and an overall auction average price of 101%, compared to the CAP current used reported figures.

The upshot of fewer bikes is good news for anyone writing future agreements, as the hope of better trading conditions will increase used sales in a market that is still struggling to supply. To that end, figures have remained robust.

USED MARKET

AS ALREADY MENTIONED, customer traffic through showroom doors has been lower than is comfortable, but used bike sales are still happening at a reasonable rate. Where the used market will go in the coming months is not easily predictable, but it’s an important question as stock levels will reflect demand and prices.

Over the next few months, we should get some clarity about where prices are heading, bearing in mind that the season is already halfway through. Seasonal lower volume turnover is around the corner, and reported prices, when discussed during our latest research, are at the mid-season level, where, except for a few corrections the market suggests, generally little movement is required either way.

The new Honda CB 750 Hornet topped the 751-1000cc sector with 119 leaving showrooms in April. It also helped the naked sector to achieve a quarter share of the total motorcycle market