British Dealer News June 2025

King’s Award for Covec

Bajaj gets KTM off the hook

DISTRIBUTOR NEWS Works Connection chooses Apico

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Honda sales hit £18.5bn

Via Moto takes on Yamaha Graeme Chatham 1940-2025

Kawasaki’s £500 new rider grant

OVER AND OUT FOR MCN LONDON SHOW

The capital’s annual motorcycle showcase closes its doors for good. Bauer Media says soaring costs mean it’s time to move on. Full story on page 12

Extended mileage.

47% increase in wear life vs predecessor

Effortless handling.

Great in the wet. Thanks to construction changes, T33 requires approximately 10% less steering angle for cornering in wet conditions. We were also able to reduce the steering shaking during wet cornering.

When hit by a sudden rainfall, you can count on your T33’s to provide great feedback and confidence.

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the team

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/DESIGNER

Maurice Knuckey: creative@dealernews.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

the business

Online scooter hub launched

THERE IS A NEW ONLINE resource designed for scooter enthusiasts. ScooterRally.co.uk says it’s the ultimate scooter directory for the UK, with up-to-date listings for scooter rallies, events, meets and gigs, complete with links to official websites or Facebook pages. There’s also a full round-up of scooter clubs, event traders, brands and businesses, all of them scooter friendly.

The website is also looking to build community engagement by inviting event information and offering promotional opportunities like competitions and sponsorship. For more information see: www.scooterrally.co.uk

Fit for a king

British protective denim specialist Covec has scooped a second Royal award.

Southampton-based riding kit maker Covec, has been honoured with the King’s Award for Innovation 2025. The technical textile innovator has been awarded the King’s Award for its revolutionary Covec Oneskin denim, single-layer motorcycle apparel that combines high-level protection with everyday comfort.

Covec says the Oneskin material gives CE-rated abrasion resistance in a single layer of reinforced denim, eliminating bulky multi-layer constructions and improving

breathability and mobility.

The 2025 prize is the second royal accolade won by the company: the firm also

Winning a second royal award is a tremendous honour

Keith Bloxsome, Covec MD

received the Queen’s Award for International Trade in 2020, recognising Covec’s global reach and commercial success.

“Winning a second royal award is a tremendous

honour,” said Keith Bloxsome, Covec MD. “Our Oneskin technology has redefined rider protection, and to see it recognised at the highest level is validation of the work our team has put in – not just to innovate, but to push global standards forward.”

The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognises outstanding UK businesses across four categories, with Innovation being one of the most competitive. Covec’s double recognition under both monarchs is a rare achievement and testament to the company’s sustained growth and technical excellence.

For more information, visit: www.covec.co.uk.

2Rev scoops Axxis

Axxis Helmets, a sister brand of the Spanish manufacturer MT Helmets, has announced a new distributor for the UK. The 2Rev company, part of Motogear, has added Axxis to its expanding portfolio of brands. Stock of the entry-level to midrange helmets is currently on its way to the UK.

Axxis is a part of the MT Group, and is still quite new to the market, but it’s growing fast, with distribution in more than 60 countries across four continents, and a product line-up of more than 20 shell designs and 300 graphic schemes. There’s a wide range of models, from full-face options like the Fenix and Storm S SV flipfront to open-face and off-road helmets. All come with full ECE 22.06, DOT approval, P/J dual safety homologation on flip lids, and a five-year warranty.

The firm carries out all its R&D, design and testing functions at its HQ in Cartagena, Spain, with production in the Far East. Its main European logistics operation also runs from Cartagena.

“This is an excellent opportunity for us

Wheels Motorcycles launches new online selling platform

MIDLANDS DEALERSHIP CHAIN

Wheels Motorcycles, has implemented a new software platform to improve its online selling functions. The retailer, which stocks Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi at branches in Peterborough and Cradley, is using iStoreDOCS, a platform developed by software firm Mad Dev. The programme lets customers complete their purchase from home or in person. It gives sales staff more flexibility in supporting buyers, allowing them to add accessories

and finance options to suit individual requirements. It’s now used by dealers across the UK, helping more than 260,000 customers and storing more than five million documents.

Paul Carlisle, digital operations manager at Wheels Motorcycles, said: “As customers increasingly look for convenient ways to buy, this platform allows us to meet those expectations without compromising on service. It also helps our team manage their workload more effectively, particularly during busy periods.”

to work with a market leader,” said Trevor Hall, 2Rev owner. “Axxis is growing at a phenomenal rate globally, with a huge potential here in the UK. The R&D and distribution facilities in Europe are impressive and show commitment and investment into the project, with further expansion on the way. The team is passionate, professional, and motivated, looking to grow year-on-year.

“We cannot wait to bring the 2025 collection to the UK, with three new models and a host of new graphics. Retail prices range from £49.99 up to £159.99 –there’s lots to see.

“If you have any questions, please contact your area manager for an appointment or feel free to contact us at: info@2rev.co.uk or on 01536 485484.”

To learn more about the Axxis range, see: www.axxis-helmets.com/about

Dan Rea, sales director at Mad Devs, added: “Wheels Motorcycles has a strong reputation for customer service. iStoreDOCS is a great fit for their business, giving the team a simple way to manage deals and documents more effectively while offering a better experience for the customer.”

The Axxis Panther SV Tribute

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VINTAGE BIKE RUN AT BANBURY

THE BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM WILL ONCE again host the Vintage Motor Cycle Club Banbury Run on 8 June, celebrating its 75th anniversary. Up to 300 pre-1931 Veteran and Vintage motorcycles and three-wheelers will ride out from the museum on various routes around Banbury and Sun Rising Hill near Tysoe. There’s also an autojumble with more than 70 pitches. More information: www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk or www.banbury-run.co.uk.

BEN BALL BOOKINGS BEGIN THE AUTOMOTIVE BENEVOLENT charity BEN, has launched its 2025 Christmas charity ball, with tickets and table bookings now on sale. The event takes place on 10 December, at a new central London location –the five-star Hilton Park Lane hotel. There’s entertainment, dancing, a three-course dinner and lots of networking opportunities – and all for charity. More details at the BEN website: www.ben.org.uk/benball

SHELL AND DUCATI OIL

DUCATI HAS WORKED WITH SHELL FOR more than 25 years, helping keep the Italian bikes winning on road and track, despite their big power outputs and complex desmo valve trains. Now, both firms have developed a new oil that is designed to work with all the Borgo Panigale machines, from the Desmo450 MX bike through the Scramblers to the V4 Panigales. Ducati Genuine Oil Powered by Shell Advance 15W-50 is the snappy name!

Big crowds at Stafford show

Organisers of the International Classic MotorCycle Show are celebrating after a successful spring event at Stafford. Decent spring weather helped turnout, and the one-off centenary display of £10m-worth of Brough Superior SS100 bikes was a huge draw for fans. Thousands of visitors trooped in to see the 1929 JTOR V-twin JAP-powered ‘George VI’ SS100, previously owned by T.E. Lawrence –better known as Lawrence of Arabia – amongst a remarkable line-up of unique SS100 machines.

The show’s Bonhams auction also drew a large crowd, with models sold including a 1925 Brough Superior 981cc SS100

The 1929 JTOR V-twin JAP-powered ‘George VI’ SS100, once owned by T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, rounded out a remarkable line-up

(sold for £276k), the Brooklands Gold Star-winning 1937 Vincent-HRD 998cc Rapide Series-A, and an ex-Carl Fogarty 1988 Honda VFR750R RC30. Auction total sales were £3,173,000, including premiums.

Millions of pounds worth of Brough motorcycles were on display

Show director Nigel Hole said: “What a fantastic weekend.It was brilliant to see our regular petrolheads, but also to welcome lots of families through the door to enjoy our event. The Brough Superior SS100 collection was an exceptional feature of the show, and Henry Cole brought in the crowds throughout the

weekend. Roll on 2026!” Classic MotorCycle magazine editor, James Robinson added: “Wow, what a lineup. It’s exceptional to see so many SS100s in the same location. Thanks are due to all the owners who loaned us their fabulous machines, as well as the Brough Superior Owners Club for their help and support. It was brilliant.”

R&G Thais up new sponsorship deal

BRITISH CRASH PROTECTION AND accessory firm R&G Racing, has announced a new sponsorship deal, covering the 2025 Yamaha Thailand racing team and Yamaha R3 BLU CRU Asia-Pacific Championship. The new deal was announced at a special presentation in Thailand and will see R&G supply the Yamaha Thailand Racing Team with engine case covers and Eazi-Grip tank traction grips for its Yamaha YZF-R6, YZF-R3 and YZF-R25 machines. The support agreement extends throughout the entire 2025 racing season. It covers multiple race series, including the Asia Road Racing Championship,

Supersports 600 Class, Asia Production 250 Class (AP250), Yamaha R3 BLU CRU Asia-Pacific Championship and Thailand Championships.

The deal will see R&G support racing

across multiple countries, including Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and Australia, with riders representing more than 10 nations.

Simon Hughes, MD of R&G, said: “This partnership with the Yamaha Thailand racing team and Yamaha R3 BLU CRU Asia-Pacific Championship aligns perfectly with our mission to support up-and-coming riders with the best protection and grip solutions available. We are excited to see these talented young riders push their limits with the assurance that they have top-tier crash protection and enhanced grip to optimise their performance.”

Henry Cole entertains showgoers

Double-D adventures

TWO LEGENDARY ITALIAN firms, Ducati and Dainese, have teamed up to create a series of riding adventures. The Expedition Masters travel programme kicks off with a range of on- and off-road trips, including a week’s run through the Italian mountains, covering the Apennines and the Dolomites, taking in the Dainese, Ducati, Ferrari and Lamborghini museums plus a visit to the Italian MotoGP at Mugello. There are two Icelandic tours: an off-road expert route on DesertX machines, and an onroad trip using Multistrada V4s. Finally, there’s an 11-day mega-trip across the US, from Las Vegas and Death Valley to Route 66, on Multistrada or DesertX bikes.

For more details: www.dainese.com/gb/en/ travel-courses/expeditionmasters.html

Team Green incentive gives £500 grant to new riders

NEW RIDERS ARE AN essential part of keeping the wheels of the motorcycle industry turning, and Kawasaki is helping them out with cold, hard cash.

The Japanese manufacturer has launched a “New Riders Grant” which gives riders who passed their bike test in the last 12 months up to £500 off a range of bikes.

The £500 discount covers

the Z900, Ninja 650, Z650, Z650RS, Vulcan S, Ninja Z-6R and ZX-4RR models, while riders can get £400 off the price of Kawasaki’s 500cc range: the Ninja 500, Z500 and Eliminator. Customers can take advantage of the grant at their nearest Kawasaki dealer by simply showing their pass certificate, and the deal runs until the end of the year.

Craig Watson, sales and marketing manager at Kawasaki UK, said: “With the sun shining and the biking season getting underway, we’re really pleased to be launching the ‘New Rider Grant’ to help those motorcyclists just starting out on their twowheel journey the chance to ride away on their dream Kawasaki.”

MotoGP and Harley-Davidson launch Bagger support race series

Next year will see a new MotoGP race series. But it’s not for highperformance supersports bikes, or even powerful naked machines. Instead the new one-make championship will feature Harley-Davidson ‘bagger’ cruiser bikes, complete with hard pannier-style touring bodywork! The AMA King of the Baggers series pioneered the unlikely competition, and seeing retired MotoGP aces and WSBK riders riding the highly tuned touring bikes caught the imagination of the riding public.

MotoGP and Harley are running the support round at six race weekends in 2026 across the US and Europe. There will be two races at each meet, with around eight teams all running two riders, and the bikes themselves are all identical 280kg 200bhp race-developed variants of Harley’s CVO RR Road Glide machines.

“This is a bold new step for HarleyDavidson’s global racing ambitions,” said Jochen Zeitz, CEO at Harley-Davidson. “With this new series, we’re excited to bring

a new form of racing to the world stage. It will add an amazing spectacle to the greatest motorcycle show in the world.”

“This collaboration with Harley-Davidson is an exciting opportunity for both parties,” said Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports.

“We offer a truly international platform for Harley-Davidson to expand its global reach, and Harley-Davidson is perfectly placed to join us in bringing our sport to new audiences. This partnership has big potential for both our strategies and will deliver a real spectacle for fans.”

Gottfried Neumeister, KTM chief executive

Bajaj gets KTM off the hook

In what looked like a lastminute throw of the dice, KTM announced it was “proud” to report a major milestone on 22 May, precisely one day before an obligation to stuff agreed restructuring funds into its creditors’ hands. The company admitted that after months of “dedicated effort and strategic planning”, it had become able to expand its relationship with its longstanding partner Bajaj and secure the Indian motorcycle manufacturer as a leading investor.

In a parallel statement heavy on waffle, KTM chief executive Gottfried Neumeister said: “Today we have been given the opportunity to continue the history of KTM. Together with Bajaj, we were able to work out a strategy that will enable us to raise a further €600m for our new start in addition to the €200m already made available. Existing sites – in particular our main plant in Mattighofen/Munderfing –will remain the basis for our future success. In view of this

new, second opportunity, we at KTM feel deep gratitude and humility towards all those within and outside our group of companies who have made it possible. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Stefan Pierer on behalf of all those who have accompanied us along the way. He laid the foundation for one of the world’s best-known motorcycle brands, which has a unique community.”

An ad hoc explanation of the nitty-gritty was also published on KTM parent Pierer Mobility’s website. This said: “As announced, the creditors of KTM AG, KTM Components GmbH and KTM Forschungs & Entwicklungs GmbH approved a restructuring plan quota of 30% on 25 February 2025, payable by 23 May 2025.

The total and final amount required to finance the quota under the three restructuring plans finally amounted to €525m.

“Bajaj Auto International Holdings BV provided the required funds to enable

Muc-Off backs

Hillier for TT assault

JUST A FEW WEEKS BEFORE THE 2025 ISLE OF MAN TT kicked off, top rider James Hillier was set to miss out after his team pulled out. But bike cleaning firm Muc-Off stepped in with a full sponsorship package to get him back onto the island, riding a Honda Fireblade in the Superstock and Superbike races.

the continuity of the KTM business by funding the quota payment to creditors in furtherance of KTM’s debt restructuring. For this purpose, a loan of €450m was granted to KTM AG. An additional amount of €150m was granted to Pierer Mobility AG, which passed on the required balance to meet quota payments to the other KTM companies.”

The website also reported Stefan Pierer is to step down from the executive board of Pierer Mobility AG in June 2025, after the conclusion of restructure proceedings. Pierer Mobility’s supervisory board has also appointed Verena SchneglbergerGrossmann, who has been with the group since November 2015, as a new member of the executive board in a chief legal officer role, supporting chief executive Gottfried Neumeister. Presumably Bajaj Auto’s freshly extended shareholding in the business will culminate in it ruling the corporate roost.

Over and out for MCN London Show

MCN London Motorcycle Show organiser Bauer has pulled the plug on the capital’s showcase event and will focus on helping make the NEC the main bike show for the whole country.

It was one of the two major flagship exhibitions in the annual bike show calendar, alongside Motorcycle Live at the NEC in Birmingham. But the MCN London Motorcycle Show has sadly come to the end of the road after organiser Bauer Media, decided now is the time to call time on the event. Citing rising costs and a decline in exhibitor numbers, amid unconfirmed rumours that the show’s lease deal with the ExCeL has come to an end.

The current show has been held at ExCeL under the MCN banner for more than 15 years, dating back to 2007, and previously was organised as the 020 show by the MCIA in 2001-2002, following the exhibition centre’s opening in

November 2000. The capital has had a major motorcycle show dating back to the Alexandra Palace Road Racing and Superbike show and Earls Court shows. London bike show history goes back even further to the first British Cycle and Motor Cycle show at

We have had to make a really tough decision but it’s time to bid farewell to this much-loved event

Gareth Ashman, commercial director, Bauer Media

Charley Boorman, Nick Sanders, Steve Parrish and Henry Cole, alongside James Whitham and Grace Webb.

At the most recent shows, the organisers have also aimed to provide more ‘live’ events and experiences for visitors. That has ranged from stage shows featuring interviews with experts and celebrities to world launches of new bikes and products, race bike displays and bike auctions. There’s

Olympia in Kensington, West London, more than a century ago in 1919. Now, though, the Bike Shed Custom Show at Tobacco Dock, Wapping, is set to be the last remaining major bike show inside the M25, albeit a more niche event without a strongly overt ‘trade’ nature and a less mainstream approach. MCN supported the East London ExCel show with a host of race superstars, with legends like Carl Fogarty, Randy Mamola and Wayne Gardner to road race heroes John McGuinness and Peter Hickman, as well as younger stars like Jorge Martin and Pedro Acosta. Recent stage hosts have included

also been loads of high-octane entertainment: indoor flattrack racing, a world-first sprint drag-race event and off-road riding. Visitors regularly had the chance for road tests on new bikes, and there were also taster sessions for non-riders and electric kids’ bike fun rides.

Following the decision to close the show, Bauer has announced that it will redirect its marketing efforts to support the Motorcycle Live Show in Birmingham. Discussions behind the scenes between Bauer and the MCIA have led to a plan to support the industry association’s NEC event even further. That means the publisher’s specialist bike press and local radio stations will encourage southern-based riders to make the trip up the M1/ M40 to the Midlands each November, instead of taking the Dockland’s Light Railway to ExCeL or the M35/A13 in February.

Gareth Ashman, commercial director, Bauer Media

Southern bikers will now need to visit MCL in Birmingham to “try on” new motorcycle models

Speaking about the decision, Bauer Media’s Group commercial director, Gareth Ashman, said: “Following a hugely successful exhibition in 2025 – MCN’s 70th anniversary year – we have had to make a really tough decision, but it’s time to bid farewell to this much-loved event. While interest from the southern biking audience has remained consistently strong, rising costs have made it increasingly challenging for some industry partners to support the exhibition as they once did. The team at MCN put their heart and soul into this event, and I’m extremely proud of what we have achieved over the years. We very much look forward to deepening our excellent working relationship with the team at the MCIA to drive even more visitors to Motorcycle Live this November.”

Meanwhile, Motorcycle Live’s MD, Finlay McAllan, said: “We very much look forward to working closely with Bauer on attracting the London show regulars who may have never been to Motorcycle Live previously. MCL, being wholly owned by the industry, represents the only event where visitors can see all the

new products for the first time. In addition to the latest bikes and innovations, visitors will experience an amazing day out, including interactive riding features, purchase the latest kit, enjoy live music, witness incredible live FMX and Trials shows and meet the riders and other celebrities.”

As we went to press, there was little reaction to the news – indeed, the story itself is exclusive to BDN So it remains to be seen whether someone else will step into the gap.

With Kent-based Kelsey Publishing taking over Mortons Media and its publishing and show events operations in March, it seems logical they will be considering their options on home turf in the south-east. The London show was attracting almost 30,000 visitors, paying more than £25 each – that could well make for a solid potential base for another operator at a different site in the capital.

Dedicated bike show fans in the south-east and London are, for the moment at least, left with a blank spot on the calendar in February.

Gareth Ashman with Valentino Rossi’s priceless World Championship race bikes displayed together at the show’s 2022 pop-up museum

In 2023, a new headline feature, Supersprint made its show debut, it was aimed at enhancing visitor experience with live entertainment

Betta ask Beta

Beta is already a respected name in bike race paddocks. Now, the Italian tool specialist is looking to expand its presence in dealerships around the UK. Alan Dowds met with the firm’s team at a recent press event to learn more

It’s an obvious point, but a good set of tools is fundamental for any serious bike technician. Where a DIY fan can get away with an ancient adjustable spanner and their grandad’s hammer, professionals need reliable kit that fits and works. And that applies to dealers’ workshops too. Customers – and manufacturers – demand proper investment in the kit to maintain their bikes, and a properly designed, welllaid-out workshop area is also vital for efficient operations, as well as a health and safety requirement.

Beta Tools reckons it can step in here. It’s a big outfit based in Italy, with annual group revenues of €280m, more than 1000 staff, nine Italian production bases, and more than 250 global importers. It spends 10% of its revenue on R&D, and has specialist arms for automotive supply, marine, industrial and even supports niche industries like theme park maintenance (the folks at Alton Towers service their roller coasters with Beta’s orange-handled tools…)

Beta also has a solid presence in the two-wheeled world. It’s the official tool partner for the Ducati Corse factory race programmes, on tarmac and off-road. It supplies the Raceways Yamaha BSB team as well as CCM Motorcycles, Vertu Motors and Yamaha UK. But it’s also proud of its bespoke workshop design service for dealers, small and large.

I spoke to Mark Pearson, Beta’s UK country manager, and asked him what

the firm can offer a dealer who’s looking to kit out new or a renovated workshop.

“You can come to us with whatever your footprint is, however many technicians you’re thinking of having, and we can calculate the space that you’re working within to map out out a workshop solution,” he said. “We’d look at the space you have available, and also your

We can help with the design side if you’re scratching your head about how to make things work

Mark Pearson, UK country manager, Beta

specialisms, if there’s a particular area that you are working with. That might be just tyre changing and oil changes or something more specific. Specialise in suspension servicing? We have a suspension module you can add to the workshop.”

Pearson says much of the development comes from the race side – the bespoke suspension work unit came from a superbike team’s request, as well as race stands, spare wheel trees and the like.

On a more mundane front, Beta’s sales staff and computer-aided workshop design software can also help with stuff like MOT bays for both cars and bikes. “We don’t do MOT kit; we deal more with the general repair and maintenance side.

But MOT test bay design is something we’d work around. If you have a multipurpose dealership that’s got four wheels and two wheels coming in, we will design the workshop around pits and car lifts. Dealers will often put units onto the back wall; they can go L-shaped or even a full run. Some install working islands as well.”

Good for a new location, then, but what about renovating an existing space? “Absolutely, we can also blend within what somebody’s got and freshen things up. You can use roller cab mobile units, so you’re not fixed to having to rip out what you’ve got. We can help with the design side of things if you’re scratching your head about how to make things work, how to fill the space, and make the money go as far as you possibly can.”

There are plenty of customising options, too: Beta produces red units for Ducati dealers and blue ones for Yamaha stores. It can also supply branded workshop mats, seats and bike stands.

How does Beta work with new clients interested in a new setup? “There’s a team of five sales-people that cover the UK and Ireland, working alongside our distribution partners.”

For more info: sales@beta-tools.com

Beta offer a premium hand tools range

Alan Dowds speaks to Beta’s Mark Pearson (left) with Potski Media’s Andrew Luckie (right)

Bespoke workshop cabinets can be made in a variety of colours to suit dealers needs

MCIA joins ACEM in call for improved rider skills

The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCIA), has joined the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) in a drive to improve rider skills through advanced training. ACEM launched its own Europe-wide motorcycle road safety strategy last month, and the MCIA is promoting the UK Elite Rider Hub as the best route towards improved rider safety through training.

It’s vital that we, as a sector, do all we can to address road safety

MCIA chief executive, Tony Campbell, said: “Motorcycling is under constant pressure to improve its road safety record, and it’s vital that we, as a sector, do all we can to address this. While riders and the industry are stepping up, we will also press the government and road safety organisations to

take more action. Specifically, we are urging the Department for Transport to take a fresh look at how other road users are trained in hazard perception, with the goal of making roads safer for all vulnerable users, including motorcyclists.

Tony Campbell, MCIA chief executive

“We hope the upcoming Road Safety Strategy not only includes strong provisions for motorcycle safety but also proposes bold and effective measures. These should support motorcycling rather than discourage it and avoid portraying motorcyclists as solely responsible for road safety challenges.”

More information on the Elite Rider hub at: www.eliteriderhub.co.uk.

OFFICIAL MOTOGP AND FIM CHARITY TWO Wheels for Life has teamed up with the Bike Shed Moto Co to help raise funds. The partnership will see the Bike Shed back a number of fundraising initiatives to support lifesaving Riders for Health programmes in Africa and aims to raise at least £20k in the first year.

Dutch Van Someren, Bike Shed Moto Co cofounder, said: “At the Bike Shed, we’ve always believed in the power of motorcycles to do good, so teaming up with Two Wheels for Life is a natural fit for us. We’re honoured to be part of what they do, using small but mighty bikes that can traverse the most challenging routes and helping people who don’t have access to basic healthcare that we take for granted.”

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MV AGUSTA EXTENDS WARRANTY

IT’S BEEN A TURBULENT TIME FOR MV Agusta, which was caught up in the aftermath of the Pierer Mobility financial crash last year. The Varesebased exotic bike maker is now back as an independent brand once more, and it is looking to reassure customers by providing a new, longer, fiveyear factory warranty replacing the previous four-year coverage. The new warranty covers the Enduro Veloce and F3 Competizione models, plus the entire Ottantesimo Collection. All customers who purchased an Enduro Veloce or LXP Orioli in 2024 get the extended coverage automatically at no extra cost.

MAG BUS LANE PETITION HITS 20K THE MOTORCYCLE ACTION GROUP’S online petition calling for default motorcycle access to bus lanes has hit 20,000 signatures. But the group says it desperately needs to get another 80k to hit the magic 100,000 mark and earn a debate in parliament. The petition is here: petition.parliament.uk/petitions/712763.

NORTON COMMANDO RECALL

NORTON HAS ISSUED A SAFETY RECALL for Commando 961 models made between 2021 and 2025. The firm has discovered a problem with the thread locking agent used in the starter ring gear assembly. If the components come loose, the engine can lock up while operating. Owners are advised to stop using the bike immediately and contact the firm to book a free inspection and repair if necessary. nortonmotorcycles.com

LS2 wins patent court case battle

LS2 Helmets says it has achieved a “significant legal victory” in its four-year-long court battle with Shark Helmets over flipfront helmet design patents. According to information released by LS2, the Spanish Supreme Court has dismissed the appeal filed by the French brand, definitively ruling in favour of LS2 and closing the case concerning an alleged patent infringement related to modular helmets.

LS2 also claims that the ruling confirms that its Convert and Valiant models do not infringe on the patent registered by Shark in 2005, which expires at the end of this year.

Avon tyres relaunched

DESIGNING AND MANUFACTURING ITS motorcycle tyres in Wiltshire may not have been perfect for the Avon brand – but at least it gave the firm a unique selling point. The Melksham plant was badly in need of modernisation and investment but was closed down as a bike tyre production centre at the end of 2023. The Avon name was taken over by Goodyear when it bought the owner, Cooper Tires, and production has since moved to Dunlop facilities, also part of the Goodyear group, in the EU.

Goodyear is now relaunching the Avon brand, promising great quality products at a value prices and positioning it just below more premium Dunlop offerings.

Roberto Finetti, marketing manager,

“This decision is a strong endorsement of the legality and originality of LS2 products, reinforcing its leadership in design and innovation within the sector,” said an LS2 statement. “It also validates the strength of the brand’s international patent portfolio, including that of the Valiant, which is recognised by the European Patent Office.”

At the same time LS2 has re-organised its company structure, with a new name for its European arm, which changes from Tech Design Team to LS2 Motogear Europe SLU. In Spain, where the company has its European HQ, an SLU (Sociedad Limitada Unipersonal) is a limited

Goodyear Motorcycle Europe, said: “We are enthusiastic about launching Avon’s new identity. The brand’s rich maverick heritage is something that riders value and identify with, and we are confident that a product range that combines style, performance and value will encourage more riders to experience Avon tyres.”

liability company, similar to a UK limited company. Its UK operation stays as Tech Design Team UK Ltd.

The European company says its new name reflects not only a renewed commitment to the European market but also its expansion into clothing, with a complete range of motorcycle apparel, including helmets, jackets, gloves, trousers, protective equipment and accessories.

“The transition to LS2 Motorgear Europe SLU symbolises our intention to be even closer to the European customer, adapting to their needs and to market evolution,” said Giuseppe Porcu, CEO of LS2 in Europe.

production capacity while improving quality. Many current tyre fitments have been re-engineered from the ground up to increase performance and to comply with Goodyear’s corporate standards and industry regulations.

Goodyear also says it’s invested heavily in Avon production lines, with five stateof-the-art production machines, and an all-new finishing line dedicated to the custom tyre range’s whitewall construction. The firm says it has massively increased Avon’s

The relaunched range comprises four basic tyre models to begin with: the Cobra Chrome cruiser fitment, with optional whitewalls,; the Spirit ST sport-touring tyre; the 3D Supersport sporty road/ trackday rubber; and the Roadrider MKII classic tyre. Goodyear also says there are three new Avon tyres in the development pipeline, which will be launched soon. www.avontyres.com

From left: LS2 co-owner Paul Liao with CEO Giuseppe Porcu

Microlino making a big impact

BDN first saw the new Microlino bubble car at the start of this year, when UK importer Krazy Horse showed it off at the MCN London bike show. Built in Turin, Italy, for the Micro scooter firm in Switzerland, the Microlino is a super-compact two-seat bubble car with an electric powertrain that gives solid suburban performance, and a tough aluminium safety cell chassis. The styling combines cutesy appeal with modern high-tech design, and evokes a dash of nostalgia from oldsters who remember the original motorcycle-engined BMW Isetta and Heinkel/ Trojan bubble cars. And they’re ready to fill the ‘light

The focus is to grow the UK dealer network, and we are ready to support business partners with the vision and passion to bring this funky little urban vehicle back to our cities and towns

Lee Frankish, UK business development manager, Krazy Horse

urban mobility’ role, which is becoming more important, backed by government and local authority policies. It’s a real option for customers who want the most practical transport capability of a 125 scooter with zero emissions, plus great weather and crash protection.

Krazy Horse imports

the Microlino machines, alongside the more highoctane parts of its business: Indian, Norton, MV Agusta, Royal Enfield and Paton bikes, as well as Dodge/ Ram pickup trucks and Morgan cars. And owner Paul Beamish has identified the Microlino as an extra revenue stream for bike

in a typical store’s logistical footprint. Put simply, the cars are small enough to work in most bike premises, in terms of service, showroom space and even delivery. They’re comparable with a Honda Gold Wing or HarleyDavidson tourer or trike in size and mass (495kg).

Since the start of the year, Krazy Horse has been signing up dealers across the country, with nine locations currently, including its own outlets, and there are more on the way. UK business development manager Lee Frankish has been working hard at events across the country to get the name out there, and he

Left to right: Krazy Horse team members Lee Frankish, business development manager; Steph Taylor; and Megan Templeman from the marketing team, alongside owner Paul Beamish

told us how the business is developing, “In the 1960s, the roads were not just occupied by the Mini, but also the bubble car. Having now done many events with the Microlino, it is clear that there is still a love for this type of vehicle. The focus is to grow the dealer network, and we are ready to support business partners with the vision and passion to bring this funky little urban vehicle back to our cities and towns.”

Paul Beamish, owner of Krazy Horse, summed up the

DEALERS LOVE IT!

appeal – and logic – of the Microlino. “On average, the city car is occupied by only 1.2 people, driven less than 20 miles per day and, with new city speed restrictions, at speeds less than 20 miles per hour. This presents a logical debate that many city cars are too big for 95% of their usage. Sounds crazy, right? The Microlino is designed with navigating today’s modern urban space in mind, and the return of the bubble car, this time as an EV, seems a sensible idea.”

BDN SPOKE TO TWO NEW Microlino dealers to get their take on the brand.

Hayden Williams at Livery Dole, Microlino’s new dealer in Exeter, was enthusiastic about the new brand.

“We were initially drawn to Microlino at concept stage by its unique design and clear sense of identity – fun, functional, and forwardthinking. It’s a head-turner, no question, but it’s also a smart solution to modern urban mobility. As a dealership, we’re always looking to innovate and bring something genuinely different and exciting to our customers, and Microlino does exactly that.”

Williams added, “Since bringing the brand into our showroom, we’ve seen a real buzz – new customers coming through the doors, curious conversations, and lots of smiles. The Microlino attracts attention across all generations, from EV enthusiasts to people just looking for a car that breaks

the mould. It’s had a positive impact on our sales team, who have embraced the brand with real excitement. For us, Microlino isn’t just a car – it’s an experience. And one that we’re proud to offer.”

Meanwhile, Jonny Jarratt, MD at Oakmere Motor Group in the North West of England, was also positive. “Microlino may seem like something of a departure from our usual highoctane machines, but we think that there are many synergies between the specialist brands we represent. The Microlino is packed with up-to-date technology and innovation, and most importantly, it is light, encompassing all the equipment you need and none that you don’t! The reaction when driving the car is just brilliant, and you really get the feeling that by just driving it, you brighten up everyone’s day. We have been delighted with the initial response to the Microlino, and are excited to see the brand develop further.”

Bimota launches new dealer network

It’s been a long time since there was a solid, reliable UK dealer network for the Bimota brand, but Kawasaki’s ownership of the Italian exotica finally looks to be paying off, with a new national line-up of top-notch retailers. Kawasaki UK has announced five initial dealers which will be stocking the threemodel range: the KB998 Rimini WSBK homologation superbike, the KB4 retrosportster, and the new Tesi H2 Tera supercharged sport-tourer.

The new dealer line-up covers the South East, Wales and the Midlands: Signature Moto in Norwich, Cobb and Jagger in Shipley, Hyside in Maldon, Essex, Chris Walker in Grantham and M&P in Cardiff. Kawasaki also says that a Scottish outlet will be announced soon.

Craig Watson, sales and marketing manager at Kawasaki Motors UK, said: “We are excited to be taking over the distribution of Bimota in the UK and are pleased to welcome five new dealers on board to help us bring this unique brand

to a raft of new customers. We believe the three models in the range offer something different from any other machine currently on the market, and both our newly formed dealer network and I are ready to welcome customers through the door.”

Isle of Man TT signs up BMW

IN RECENT YEARS, BMW HAS HAD many racing successes at the Isle of Man TT. Now, the German manufacturer has inked a three-year deal to supply the TT organisers with a fleet of support cars and bikes for use during the race fortnight.

The deal, announced just before the 2025 TT kicked off, will see BMW Motorrad provide high-performance cars and superbikes for medics, marshals and officials to get around the island during the event until 2028. Travelling marshals, who close and open the roads and are all experienced former TT racers, will

be mounted on S1000 RR superbikes, while the rider liaison officers who instruct newcomers and inspect the course during the competition will use a pair of M1000 RR race homologation bikes.

On four wheels, BMW will supply a fleet of X5 and X3 SUVs for medical staff, including a 625bhp X5M high-performance variant which will serve as the Medical Fast Response Car. Marshals will have access to 530e hybrid saloons, with sporty M3 and M5 cars assisting as high-speed safety cars.

Paul Phillips, head of motorsport at the Isle of

Man Department for Enterprise, said: “Safety is at the heart of everything we do at the TT, and having partners who can help us deliver on that commitment is crucial to the event's success. Our medical response team is continuously driving innovation to improve our safety standards, and having the best equipment available to them – and to all our officials and marshals – is essential in allowing them to operate as effectively and safely as possible. We are looking forward to partnering with BMW, a brand that shares our values and vision for the future of the event.”

Firms need help now

While it can be argued that business owners always have something negative to focus on – rising taxes, increasing business rates, geopolitical influences impacting the natural flow of business, the general state of the economy – the fact that all of these problems, along with others, have come at the same time is causing some real headaches.

Not unsurprisingly, there are clarion calls for the government to step in and help.

The rise in national insurance seems to be a homegrown problem caused by an incoming government that boxed itself into a corner on election promises of not increasing income tax, corporation tax or VAT. But with few other options, it took a defined course. However, it might have been better to have reversed the employee national insurance rate rather than penalise job-creating employers.

Next, President Trump’s bumbling attempt to ‘Make America Great Again’ – a strapline, by the way, first coined by Ronald Reagan in 1980 – seems to be troublesome for voters at home and catastrophic for ‘innocent’ onlookers elsewhere. His application of tariffs has upended the concept of free trade and made life more expensive for everyone; American 401K pensions fell through the floor, as indeed did the valuations of pension pots worldwide.

It’s made exporters consider new alliances and destinations for goods that were formerly headed to the US market. Jaguar Land Rover and Nintendo are two that stopped exports, temporarily, to the US. Manufacturers in China were puzzling over where already-produced

goods could be sent, and while that may have proved a boon for UK (and other) consumers, it’s possible that it would have led to dumping of goods causing upset with domestic manufacturers. However, Trump rowed back and agreed a deal with China to cut tariffs… but they’re still higher than ‘normal’. Next came the threat of a 50% tariff on most EU goods by 1 June, swiftly followed by an extended deadline to the 9 July.

Trump’s application of tariffs has upended the concept of free trade and made life more expensive for everyone

The International Monetary Fund recently cut its 2025 global growth forecasts from 3.3% to 2.8%, with the US likely to be hardest hit and its forecast was cut from 2.7% down to 1.8%.

The UK government is not omnipotent, but it has a number of levers that it can pull to ease matters for UK firms.

Insurer and global risk management firm Howden thinks that one option could be to increase the VAT threshold from the current level of £90,000. As it commented, “this single measure would provide immediate relief to a significant number of smaller businesses, freeing up crucial cash flow and reducing administrative burdens.”

Another change to consider is closer ties with the European Union – the Starmer government announced a

number of measures in mid-May. No matter which side a reader sits on, the reality is that Brexit has made life more expensive and complex for importers and exporters on either side of the Channel. Given that the EU is the UK’s nearest neighbour, it seems nonsensical not to trade to the fullest with our continental cousins. This doesn’t have to mean reentry into the Europen Union, but some form of common-sense rapprochement would ease matters somewhat.

And this is something that the TUC found in a recent survey where it noted “an increasingly unpredictable and volatile global economy.” According to a “nationally representative poll of 5000 people,” 66% of those surveyed want a closer relationship with the EU – with just 20% opposed.

Employment support is also key. It’s surprising that just a year or so ago, the employment market was tilted towards sellers, where employees could make demands that employers had to acquiesce to. Better holiday leave, flexible working, and pay rises were the norm. Many businesses in 2025 are looking to reshape their employment needs as workers have become that much more expensive. On top of that is the Employment Rights Bill, which will grant workers new rights at the expense of employers.

Of course, it’s easy to pontificate from the outside looking in. But unless the government changes course, as it has with the recent U-turn on winter fuel payments, its term in office may not be extended come the next election. And if there’s one thing that hurts electoral chances, it’s the perception of personal wealth.

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Benefit from 40 years of peak development expertise for premium motorbikes

Best brand for accessories and conversions at the readers’ award of Europe’s biggest motorbike magazine MOTORRAD

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KOROYD’S RED DOT AWARD

MONACO-BASED BODY ARMOUR MAKER

Koroyd has won a 2025 Red Dot Award for Product Design for its unique impact protection technology. The firm’s product development manager, James Rogers, said: “Combining expertise in biomechanics, material science, mechanical engineering, and industrial design, we’ve crafted body protection that adapts to the wearer’s every move, leveraging in-depth R&D to set a new standard in both safety and comfort.”

MAG SCOTS CONSULTATION

THE MOTORCYCLE ACTION GROUP (MAG) has submitted proposals for action to Transport Scotland’s ‘Just Transition’ consultation, which is looking at reducing car use across the country. According to MAG, cars dominate Scotland’s roads, impacting congestion and emissions. MAG counters that motorcycling offers a practical solution that is affordable for Scots of all incomes, and says sustainable motorcycling plans would transform transport options across Scotland.

BOORMAN BOOSTS BASE LAYERS

ADVENTURER AND TV STAR CHARLEY

Boorman has partnered with Japanese base layer brand Zerofit and will wear the firm’s kit throughout this year. “I had a chance to test all the different base layers, and in no time, it was clear that they did exactly what they said on the tin. A completely game-changing range of products for all temperatures and conditions,” enthused Boorman.

ROMNEY MARSH SHOW KICKS OFF CLASSIC BIKE FANS CAN PENCIL 29

June in their diary, for the Romney Marsh Ride-in bike show and jumble. The event takes place at Hamstreet, Kent, TN26 2JD, and includes club displays, trade and jumble stalls and much more. Entry is £5. www.elkpromotions.co.uk

End of the line for Redline

The long-running Loughborough-based KTM dealership Redline Motorcycles has announced that it has closed down. The dealership, which was set up by former owner and founder Tim Walker in 1989, had been taken over by staff member Nathan Preston in 2022. But in an online post on 1 May, Preston announced that the firm had ceased trading with immediate effect.

Preston’s statement said, “As, by now, some of you will know, I have made the extremely difficult decision to close Redline Motorcycles with immediate effect.

“Any of you that have been to visit us recently will have seen how hard the past few months have been and, in a very turbulent

time, I do not see the good times returning anytime soon. I want to thank every single one of you that has been a customer of Redline in the 35 years we’ve been open.

“It’s certainly the end of the world, as we know it …”

Bailiffs entered the premises on 6 May, and insolvency specialist Butcher Woods has been appointed as liquidator.

Via Moto takes on Yamaha

SOUTH YORKSHIRE

dealership Via Moto has announced a new partnership with Yamaha Motor UK, making it the tuning fork firm’s latest outlet. The store will sell the full range of new Yamaha bikes, scooters and three-wheelers alongside a wide selection of used bikes and an extensive clothing and accessory range.

BDN last spoke to Via Moto MD Matthew Gilder in August

ACEM

T2024, when he took the decision to relocate to Barnsley from Sheffield. A new Clean Air Zone and increased costs had made the Sheffield operation unviable, so Gilder sold the building and downsized to smaller premises in Barnsley.

The firm’s original 2024 plan also involved dropping the Piaggio Group franchise and focusing on used bike sales. So returning to new bike retailing with Yamaha is an encouraging

sign for the trade in Yorkshire and beyond.

“We’ve always aimed to raise the bar,” said Matthew Gilder. “Partnering with Yamaha, one of the most admired and forward-thinking brands in motorcycling, allows us to offer even greater value, choice, and excitement to our customers.”

launches new safety strategy

he Association of European Motorcycle Manufacturers has announced a new road safety strategy that aims to bring together new technologies, high-quality training and improved policies to reduce motorcycle fatalities and injuries.

Dubbed ‘The Safe Ride to the Future 3.0’, the programme will promote the European Motorcycling Training Quality Label (motorcycle-training-label.eu), an industry-led initiative that has already certified 36 postlicense training schemes across 11 countries. The strategy also outlines how the motorcycle sector is working with European and national stakeholders to promote policies that accompany increasing motorcycle use in a safe and sustainable manner.

ACEM says it fully supports the ‘Safe System’

approach, tackling road safety holistically by considering human, vehicle, and infrastructure factors. By working with governments, road authorities and safety organisations, the motorcycle industry is committed to achieving the EU’s Vision Zero goals, striving for zero road fatalities and serious injuries by 2050.

Antonio Perlot, secretary general of ACEM, said: “PTWs are an essential part of Europe’s mobility landscape, providing efficient and sustainable mobility options to millions of people. With The Safe Ride to the Future 3.0, ACEM members reaffirm their determination to ensure these vehicles are fully integrated into transport strategies for a better future through safer motorcycling in the interest of users and wider society.”

www.roadsafetystrategy.acem.eu

Via Moto MD Matthew Gilder

BikeTrac nets massive haul of stolen bikes

THE VALUE OF FITTING A MOTORCYCLE TRACKER WAS SHOWN again last month when British tracking firm BikeTrac announced the recovery of 25 stolen bikes. Only one of the bikes found in a container of stolen machines was equipped with a BikeTrac device, but it led police to the entire haul at a yard near Tilbury Docks.

Part of the success was due to BikeTrac’s added radio frequency (RF) signal system, which is more difficult for thieves to defeat than the more common tracker setups using GPS and mobile phone signals. Using the RF kit, BikeTrac first tracked down a BMW R1200 GS, previously stolen in Richmond, South West London, to a yard in Essex.

BikeTrac’s Bill Taylor said: “Initially, this recovery looked like a fairly conventional scenario, but the bike was moving around, which meant we had to keep tabs on its location before it eventually stopped in a large container yard.”

“Gaining access to such a facility is extremely difficult, and without absolute cast-iron proof that a stolen machine is in the area, access is rarely granted. Thanks to our RF technology, which we can remotely activate, we were able to prove to the authorities that not only was the bike there but exactly which container it was in.”

However, both BikeTrac and the police discovered more than they expected: the GS was sharing a full-sized container with stolen bicycles, cars, and 20 stolen motorbikes. Further investigation turned up another five bikes at one of the previous locations visited by the stolen GS. The bikes had been taken from locations across England, including London, Essex, Sussex, Dorset and Cambridgeshire.

Summing up the operation, Taylor said: “We have been attending the scene of recoveries for more than 15 years now, but this one was without question the biggest we’ve ever witnessed. The number of bikes, the value of those machines and how they had been hidden and loaded, ready to leave the country, was immense. We’re incredibly grateful to the authorities for having faith in our product to allow access. This is very much down to our RF technology. It’s incredibly gratifying that just one bike fitted with a BikeTrac unit has led to this.”

AVON TYRES. GREAT BRITISH

Biker bodies slam careless car louts

Asurvey of 600 riders by the road safety charity IAM Roadsmart, reveals that a third of motorcyclists have been struck by litter, including lit cigarette butts, thrown out of car windows in the past year. And riders even report being deliberately sprayed with windscreen washers when riding behind cars.

The survey also found that four out of five riders have had a car pull out on them after failing to look properly at a junction. And there were other worrying results, including more than half of drivers failing to check mirrors when overtaking, a third opening doors into traffic without checking, and others using hand-held mobile phones while driving.

In support the National Motorcyclists Council has joined IAM Roadsmart in asking for government action on the findings, including better enforcement and improved driver training.

IAM RoadSmart policy and standards director Nicholas Lyes said: “Hurling litter and cigarette butts at motorcyclists is shocking and completely reckless. Taking umbrage just because bikers are able to get ahead is at best

petty, and at worst downright dangerous.

“Equally, motorcyclists should ride responsibly, but it’s important to keep in mind that bikers are some of the most vulnerable on the road and will almost always come off worse in the event of a collision.

“Deaths and serious injuries remain a real concern for motorcyclists, but a little courtesy and additional checks go a long way to improving safety.”

NMC executive director Craig Carey-Clinch added: “The lack of concern and awareness that many drivers have for motorcyclists remains an urgent issue for the UK’s most vulnerable road user group. It’s clear that the forthcoming Government Road Safety Strategy needs to focus on driver education and enforcement when it comes to behaviour towards those on two wheels. Drivers were also polled as part of this survey, and around a third reported risky behaviours by some riders, illustrating the need for proper support for post-test rider skills training, plus other initiatives to positively encourage rider skills development as part of the Road Safety Strategy.”

Kawasaki and Global Moto part company

Coventry-based retailer Global Moto has announced an end to its 41-year partnership with Kawasaki. Global Moto is moving to more of a distribution model, and has recently added the Royal Alloy scooter brand to an existing agreement with BSA.

The Global partnership with Kawasaki began in 1984, when Lloyd Cooper Motorcycles in Watford took on the Japanese brand. Lloyd Cooper is the oldest UK bike store trading from its original premises, which it opened in 1900, 125 years ago this year. The firm evolved into the Global Moto group, which grew to include Colchester Kawasaki and Clay Cross Motorcycles.

Global MD Luke Gregory said: “It’s been fantastic working with Kawasaki over so many years. Originally, with my father running the business, I joined Lloyd Cooper Watford in the early 2000s and under my direction, we added

GET CONNECTED

Colchester in 2011 and Clay Cross in 2020. We have achieved a huge amount during our time together, including being voted dealer of the year multiple times by Motorcycle News and Visordown.

We would like to thank Kawasaki, and we will miss working with Craig Watson and everyone at KMUK, including longserving general manager Howard Dale, who has recently stepped into semiretirement. However, now we must concentrate on an exciting new chapter for Global Moto and our distribution business going forward.”

Craig Watson, Kawasaki UK sales manager, said: “Luke and the whole team at Global Moto have worked tirelessly to build their business into the successful entity it has become, and we would like to extend our thanks to everyone involved for the hard work and dedication they committed to Kawasaki.”

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With so many options in digital marketing, it’s reassuring to work with MCN. Their targeted audience reach has been instrumental in driving sales for the products we distribute. Whenever I’m planning my advertising, MCN is always my first call. Jos Medinger, Director, Pure Moto. “ ”

Luke Gregory, Global Moto MD with Craig Watson, sales manager of Kawasaki UK

We are currently looking for an experienced Motorcycle sales executive to work in our busy Honda showroom in Ruislip Manor, Northwest London. Immediate start is available.

Please forward your CV with a covering letter to: Dealer Principle, HGB Motorcycles (Ruislip) Ltd, 69-71 Park Way, Ruislip Manor, HA4 8NS or email to brigid@hgbmotorcycles.co.uk

To be sold through a sealed bidding process.

The sale will begin on June 1st and remain open for viewing until June 30th, allowing prospective buyers ample time for consideration. All bids must be submitted by July 15th. Please note that the highest bid may not necessarily be chosen, as potential buyers will be vetted and considered for a contract with the McQueen estate.

A 10% deposit will be required within 48 hours of the successful bid.

Staples Covec move

Industry veteran and kit expert Loz Staples, has taken on a new role with Southampton-based clothing firm Covec, which manufactures Bull-It riding jeans and distributes the Macna, Dane, Forma Boots and MotoJean brands. Staples joins as part of a drive to expand its dealer network.

Staples has been a bike clothing expert since 2003, with spells working at Hein Gericke and Held, amongst other top brands.

“I really enjoyed working with Guy [Mainwaring] at Held UK,” said Staples. “But the time has come for a change. I’m very excited to be joining the enthusiastic team at Covec, and to have some top-quality brands with some fantastic products to push

into the marketplace. I’m looking forward to showing the dealer network what we can offer.”

Elliot Bloxsome, Covec’s global sales manager, added:

“We couldn’t be happier to have Loz as part of the team.

With his proven track record and the outstanding service, he’s consistently delivered throughout his years in the

industry, we couldn’t think of a better fit. Loz brings valuable experience that will help us elevate all our brands and maintain the high standards of service our growing network has come to expect, especially as the visibility of our distributed brands continues to rise. We’re looking forward to a strong season ahead!”

Strange times for Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield has appointed Motocom to manage its public relations in the UK. Leading these efforts is Alex Strange, who has seven years of experience in online bike content and journalism. Strange began his career as a marketing coordinator at Lexham Insurance before moving to Visordown in 2021 as a content executive. After two years at Visordown, he returned to Lexham in May 2023 as the editor of its motorcycle content. He joined Motocom in April to oversee the new Royal Enfield account. With his background in video production, news reporting, and online content creation, he brings a well-rounded perspective to the role.

“It was a tough decision to jump to the ‘other side of the fence’ of content creation and journalism. The opportunity represented a slight change in direction for the first time in six years, but I was more than happy to accept the role. Particularly since my partner, Faye, and I are expecting a baby boy this summer”, said Strange.

“My current role at Motocom, and by extension Royal Enfield UK, is to manage the motorcycle test fleet, send out press releases, manage various events through the year – including new model launches and ride opportunities, like the Slide School – and generally assist journalists in their coverage of Royal Enfield.

“It’s a wicked role, and even after this first month, I’m loving it. It’s a change of pace, but I’m happily taking on the challenge. My experience in content creation and journalism has certainly come in handy at this point.”

Motocom’s account manager in charge of Royal Enfield, Lauren Wilson, added: “We’re really pleased to welcome Alex to the team. He brings solid experience as both a journalist and content creator, which will be a great asset to Royal Enfield’s PR efforts. What we value more than anything is people who genuinely get it and care about what we do – and Alex fits right in.”

Davidson joins Rieju at Urban Moto

ANDREW DAVIDSON HAS joined Urban Moto distribution as brand manager for the Rieju Hard Enduro range of off-road bikes. Davidson has previous experience with the Spanish brand, so he understands the brand, model range and the industry.

“I have always loved the Rieju brand,” he said. “I feel they are just getting better and better all the time. The new 300i is something special and is already creating a huge stir in the industry.”

Urban Moto director Jamie Masterman said: “The allnew Rieju Enduro machines need an experienced brand manager. Andrew’s timeserved experience in the off-road environment and his professionalism match perfectly with our dealer support and marketing assets to provide the best platform for Rieju in the UK.”

Davidson is also the sales director for the electric RFN brand of kids’ off-roaders at Urban Moto. Contact him on 07494 694911 or at ad@ riejumoto.co.uk.

Metisse up for sale

Gerry Lisi is planning his retirement after 26 years at running Metisse. Now the acclaimed classic off-road brand is looking for a new owner

Creating custom motorcycles is a cherished tradition in British motorcycling, and few are as unique as those crafted by the Metisse brand. The Triumph TR6-engined Mark 3 Metisse Desert Racer has gained significant popularity over the years, largely due to film star Steve McQueen, who famously called it “the best handling bike I’ve ever owned!”

However, like all good bikes, some brands evolve over time. Gerry Lisi, the owner of Metisse, is planning to sell the brand and the rights to produce the remaining 150 McQueen Desert Racers, which are currently priced at £15,550+VAT. The sale will also include the trademark and endorsement from the McQueen estate.

In case any interested parties are concerned about the availability of TR6 engines, Lisi says that the 650 twin was produced from 1962 to 1972, with Triumph manufacturing approximately 50,000 bikes annually, including the 500cc version. With 85% of these bikes exported to the United States, there should be more than enough engines to power the remaining Desert Racers.

Lisi has had the Metisse brand for a quarter of a century but has decided that now is the time to pass it on, as he isn’t getting any younger. As some readers will know, Metisse was created by the Rickman brothers, Derek and Don, who were off-road stars in the late 1950s. Being essentially a Tribsa,

the Metisse bikes used a BSA rolling chassis housing a Triumph motor. The chassis provided the rigidity, and the twin-cylinder motor was more powerful than the popular singles of the day. Even though it obviously started life as an off-road creation for the Rickmans, it has been used in many different guises over the years – scrambles, grass track, sidecar, road bike – but when you see the McQueen variant, it looks very right: the components, their relationship to each other, you just want to jump on it and swing that kickstart lever.

Lisi has had the Metisse brand for a quarter of a century but has decided now is the time to pass it on

Later in its development, the frame was improved, and the external oil tank was replaced with an oil-in-frame design. This not only eliminated the vulnerable tank but also allowed the oil to run cooler, helping to keep the motor performing well. Initially, the Rickman brothers considered naming their creation ‘Mongrel’ due to its mixed origins. However, as the story goes, a casual glance through a French dictionary revealed that the female translation was ‘Metisse’ – and so the name was chosen.

Lisi didn’t start his career in the

motorcycle industry: “My father retired in 1983, and I continued with the family thatching business. The following year, I bought a 156-acre farm to grow my thatching straw. But after a few years, I developed an allergy to a spore that grew on the straw, so I had to stop the thatching. Instead, I developed and built a golf course and country club.”

Lisi never played golf – it was purely a business venture – but he definitely had a passion for motorcycles. “So in 1999, I joined forces with Pat French, who had the MRD Metisse brand. After three years, he began experiencing breathing difficulties and was diagnosed with asbestosis-related lung cancer, which led to his retirement. In March 2001, I purchased the other half of the business from him, and sadly, he passed away in July 2007.

“In August 2007, Lord Anthony Bamford from JCB sent his agent down to ask me to build a replica of the Desert Racer that Steve McQueen rode in the mid-60s. I built the prototype based on photographs – it was basically a Mk 3 anyway. The McQueen estate sent four lawyers to check me out, and they were very happy with the set-up. Within a couple of weeks, everything was signed and sealed, and I continued with a threeyear contract, to be renewed every three years, from 2008 to the present day.”

Detailed information regarding the sale of Metisse can be found on page 28 in this issue. Who can resist a oneoff chance to own a classic motorcycle brand?

BikeTrac goes electric with Zero

US electric bike maker

Zero Motorcycles, has teamed up with security specialist BikeTrac to offer a factory-approved tracking device. Zero owners can now have the advanced theft-recovery kit fitted through authorised dealers, significantly improving the chance of getting a bike back should it be stolen.

off. Additionally, there is a 24-hour Secure Operating Centre that works closely with police forces and Securitas security agents.

Dale Robinson, Zero’s UK country manager, said: “The modern biking world requires a modern security solution, and BikeTrac does just that. With bike theft increasing across almost all of the UK,

BikeTrac’s Bill Taylor added: “We’re extremely pleased to announce our collaboration with Zero Motorcycles and delighted

battery voltage and alerts via our app and on desktop.

“With Zero Motorcycles, we’re pleased to offer a security solution that,

Graeme Chatham 1940-2025

Farewell to an Industry Great

Colin Mayo

The funeral of Graeme Chatham at Mortonhall crematorium, Edinburgh, on the 23 May, celebrated the life and achievements of a true Industry Great. Family, friends, former staff and the trade paid their respects to a man who refused to be intimidated or give up.

As briefly reported in our May issue, Graeme, 84, fought a 14-year battle to get compulsory rider training incorporated into the motorcycle licence test in the face of opposition from the government, the motorcycle importers, most dealers and, incredibly, two road safety organisations.

Graeme’s story started in 1963 when he and an associate rented a shed to repair scooters and bikes. The partnership was short-lived, £25 buying Graeme the workshop tools and the ‘business’. Not long after, he took on a Suzuki franchise, just as the government inflicted a credit squeeze which included tough new hire purchase restrictions requiring a minimum 30% deposit on new and used bike and car purchases. By chance, a customer offered a Provident cheque to pay for a repair job. Graeme was told by his bank that not only was the cheque valid, but payments by Provident cheques were also exempt from the government’s 30% deposit rule!

Seizing the moment, he ran adverts in the local press and in the national bike press:

“No deposit. Three years to pay,” very quickly becoming Suzuki’s top dealer selling hundreds of bikes, including his own modified version of Suzuki’s 125cc two-stroke twin Stinger. For his efforts he won a dealer trip to Japan in 1967, a country he came to love, even learning enough of the language to make a speech in Japanese to Suzuki’s bosses on a subsequent trip to the factory.

In 1969, after a nearby Honda dealer went bust, he called Eric Sulley, then in the sales team and yet to become Honda’s ‘El Supremo’, making an offer Eric couldn’t resist.

“I will send you a cheque for £2000 and you supply me with the bikes you think I can sell”. Not long after, Honda’s area manager visited the Edinburgh ‘showroom’, at that time located in the basement of a tenement building. He was not impressed, but it didn’t stop him from taking an order for more bikes and then asking what cars he wanted.

“You have cars as well”? replied Graeme. “Yes, the N600 and Z600 coupe”, said the rep. It marked the start of Graeme’s move into four wheels and later becoming one of Honda’s biggest car dealers.

In the summer of 1976, while on a week’s holiday with his family, he was told by his showroom manager that six lads riding bikes he had sold to them had been killed in separate accidents.

Shocked, he seriously considered closing the bike side of the business, but quickly realised that walking away from the problem would not fix it. Instead, he introduced a policy of compulsory training for all customers new to biking. The four-hour course was mandatory. A banner across the back of the showroom reenforced the message: “Free training. No training, no bike”.

Many dealers in Scotland supported him. Vic Devine in Glasgow, Eddie Graham in Dumfries and George Lloyd, then a big dealer in Hamilton, were early supporters. South of the border most dealers, fearful of losing sales, were less then helpful, but Colin Appleyard, in Keighley, and Alan Damerell, down in Cornwall, were strong early supporters.

In Scotland Graeme’s no training, no bike policy was more than proving his point. By the spring of 1980 more than 700 riders had been trained and when Lothian and Borders police analysed the figures, the accident rate for those taking training had fallen from the normal 20% to 5%. Ken Clarke, then Minister of Roads and Transport, visited Graeme’s rider training site in 1981 and the following year introduced an amended Transport Bill with training required prior to sitting part one of the new two-part test. However, new untrained riders could still ride on the roads.

Concerned that some of his suppliers (not all of them) could make life difficult, Graeme diversified into property, buying up flats in the Edinburgh area and renting them to students.

Over the course of 20 years and working in close co-operation with Edinburgh University, he established a portfolio of 127 flats, selling them on just before the outbreak of Covid. Prior to that he had sold off his four Honda/Skoda car showrooms.

Over the nine years following Ken Clarke’s visit to Graeme’s Edinburgh

Honda’s Eric Sulley (wearing a tartan waistcoat) shares a joke with Graeme Chatham

training ground in 1981, bike registrations collapsed. “Killer bike” headlines in the national press and on TV, growing parental opposition, big increases in insurance premiums and a raging discount war that virtually destroyed part-exchange bike values, all combined to bring new registrations down from 275,000 in 1982 to just 87,000 in 1990.

Getting little or no support from the bike manufacturers or its association, Graeme continued his campaign for mandatory rider training. But it wasn’t until 1989 when a bike-riding Department of Transport staffer persuaded Peter Bottomley, then the

sometimes bitter battle.

Transport Minister, to see Graeme, when things began to move. Bottomley, self-styled Minister of Motorcycling, had already visited the Big Four manufactures in Japan where he discovered compulsory rider training had been in force since 1971. And it had been effective: in 1981 Japan’s biker death toll was 1712 with 13.2 million bikes registered. In the UK, in the same year, 1131 died with 1.3 million bikes registered!

After what Graeme later described as a fiery 45 minutes with Bottomley, it was agreed that the 1981 Transport Act would be amended and rider training made mandatory from January 1990. It marked the conclusion of a long and

Some may think the industry has Graeme to thank for the over-complicated and expensive bike licencing mess now in force. Wrong. As early as 2009, in a column he wrote for this magazine, he described the then modular motorcycle test just introduced by the Driver Standards Agency as an “obstacle course which must be amended to ensure smooth progress through training and testing”. Since then, the obstacle course has become an assault course. The bloody-minded intransigence (some would call it stupidity, I would) of successive governments has made it ever more costly to get training and a bike licence. Selfserving, braindead politicians (not all of them) appear to be incapable of recognising that more PTWs on the roads will ease city congestion, improve mobility, particularly in rural areas poorly serviced by public transport, and with their almost-zero pollution footprint, help to support the current tree kissing agenda.

Remarkably, sadly, call it what you like, Graeme Chatham’s achievements have never been properly recognised either by the government or the industry. Over the years compulsory rider training has kept thousands out of the morgue or hospital. Many have been honoured for considerably less than that. Back in 2014 British Dealer News presented Graeme with a Services to Rider Training Award in recognition of his long, almost one-man, fight for common sense. He deserved much more.

He leaves Eileen, his wife of 62 years, son Campbell and daughters Caroline and Jennifer.

For the month of June, all Motorcycle tyres go carriage free!

Graeme Chatham with his wife Eileen. They were married for over 60 years

How to choose a financial advisor

We rarely hold bank notes, invariably ditch coins at the first opportunity, and most likely live via plastic. All of this makes it easy to spend beyond our means.

But just because we rely on non-cash methods of making payments doesn’t abrogate our responsibility to be careful with our money. By extension, this means planning our financial futures for the long term. For most, unless they are a ‘sophisticated investor’, this means hiring a financial advisor.

Worryingly, many do not, as an October 2023 story in Professional Advisor noted[1] It reported that “only one in ten adults have sought professional advice.” Further, the research, conducted in collaboration with YouGov and 2035 adults, showed that almost half (49%) felt uncomfortable with their level of retirement savings, whilst 38% said it is unlikely they will achieve their retirement goals.

Similarly, a January 2024 report in the Independent found that “more than half of people (59%) do not have a financial plan in place.” [2]

But with a bewildering array of financial advisors, not to mention the acronyms used in

Everyone – business owner or employee –could benefit from good financial advice

the world of finance, it’s never been more important to find the right person.

It’s important to be mindful that someone needing financial advice does not have to be classed as ‘rich’ to qualify for help – indeed, good financial

planner or wealth manager.

In overview, a financial adviser is likely to offer a wide range of services outside of savings and investments –perhaps mortgages, insurance products or equity release (from a property).

It’s important to be mindful that someone needing financial advice does not have to be classed as ‘rich’ to qualify for help

advice is as crucial for the average person on the Clapham Omnibus as it is for the wealthy. For some, seeking advice will be a function of being at a crossroads in their life – where something significant has occurred, such as the death of a spouse, an inheritance, or an upcoming retirement.

ADVISORS DIFFER

As in other walks of life, advisors differ in the services they offer and the markets they serve – mortgages, investments or pensions, for example. Consequently, some may refer to themselves as a financial adviser, or they may call themselves a financial

A financial planner or wealth manager, on the other hand, tends to be more focused on investment and wealth and will seek to form a strategy taking account of the client’s current circumstances, goals and other factors. They will look at the bigger picture and aim to take a rounded approach.

But regardless of the specialism, all are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Accordingly, they have rules to follow and obligations to their clients; any advisor officially recognised will be listed on the FCA’s publicly searchable Financial Services Register.

While there are minimum

qualifications for recognition, the more avant-garde will hold other specific qualifications particular to their interest. Understanding how wellqualified an advisor is not a wasted exercise.

If an adviser deals with investments, pensions or retirement products, they will be categorised as either ‘independent’ or ‘restricted’. Independent financial advisors seek to recommend products from firms across the market as a whole. In contrast, restricted advisors invariably have limitations on the type of products they offer, the providers they are able to choose from, or possibly both.

This means that it’s important to know the status of the adviser being considered and what they can offer; if their status is unclear, it should be clarified. If they are restricted, their providers should be clarified, too.

RECOMMENDATION

The obvious way to begin the search is to ask for personal recommendations from friends and family, noting, however, that their assets, needs and level of sophistication will be different. Questions to

pose should revolve around ‘personal chemistry’, responsiveness, charges and importantly, results.

Apart from friends and family, there are websites such as Vouchedfor, the Society of Later Life Advisors, Unbiased, the Personal Finance Society, and the Retirement Advisor Directory on moneyhelper.org.uk

PAYING FOR ADVICE

Advice comes with cost, and it’s important to walk into a relationship without surprises.

Any first meeting should be free. But after that, the charges can be highly variable.

Advisors recommending products such as investments, pensions or retirement income products cannot receive a commission. Consequently, they will charge fees, which may mean an initial onboarding fee followed by ongoing fees, which could be monthly or annual. Fees might be flat rates or based on a percentage of the assets. And while fees are presented as fixed, it may be possible to negotiate them down.

According to moneyhelper. org , hourly rates vary from £75 to £350 per hour, with an average of £150. But there could be a set fee for a given job, which may range from hundreds to several thousand pounds.

As for other forms of fee structure, searches of VouchedFor shows one instance of investment advice on assets of £250,000 being charged an initial fee of 3% and 0.75% ongoing plus any investment fund fees payable. Another for the same investment found a different advisor charging £1500 plus 1% of the assets initially with 0.75% ongoing plus any investment fund fees.

Fees will also depend on location, service delivery (in person, phone or online), whether the advice is independent or restricted, who provides the service, qualifications, complexity of the work, and whether the service or product is actively or passively provided.

Advisers must provide a copy of their charging structure before providing any services.

Advisers for mortgages, equity release, general insurance (car, holiday or travel), or protection insurance such as life insurance may be paid commission, which should be disclosed.

While acknowledging that advice comes with cost, those seeking pension advice may be able to use the UK Pensions Advice Allowance. This allows those in defined contribution pension schemes to take up to £500 out of their pot tax-free to pay for retirement advice. This is permitted up to three times and no more than once in a tax year. However, not all pension providers provide for this.

Finally, there’s also the government’s free Pension Wise service for those 50 or over who have a defined contribution pension. Pension Wise, via appointments of around 60 minutes, gives ‘guidance’ but not regulated financial advice. The ‘advisor’ will go through the options and tax implications but won’t make any recommendations.

SUMMARY

Taking financial advice is a serious matter where percentages may look small but could, in time, through compounding, make thousands of pounds of difference. Ultimately, the choice of advisor is personal. But even so, it’s key to look beyond the glossy brochures and to the results an adviser can bring.

[1] www.professionaladviser.com/news/4134234/brits-unsatisfiedretirement-savings-shy-away-advice

[2] www.independent.co.uk/money/more-than-half-of-people-do-not-havea-financial-plan-in-place-survey-b2474450.html

www.britishdealernews.co.uk

With financial editor Roger Willis

Honda sales hit £18.5 billion

HONDA HEGEMONY ABSOLUTE

We knew that mind-boggling numbers were on their way, from year-end forecasts issued three months previously. But Honda’s massive motorcycle business didn’t even bother with bragging rights when they finally landed. During its full fiscal year to 31 March 2025, global Honda motorcycle output climbed by 9.3%, surging to an extraordinary 20.572 million units sold.

To report such stupendous volume, the company actually began on a negative note. Its Japanese domestic sales slumped by 7.1% to 224,000 units. But crucial Asian sales, including those from the really big-league players of its HMSI subsidiary in India and jointventure affiliate Astra Honda in Indonesia, climbed by 9.1% to 17.478 million. Other emerging and smaller regions contributed a 13.7% rise to 1.847 million. In the developed world offering the opportunity of much higher pricing, North American sales stacked on 10% to 548,000 and European headcount increased by 7.9% to 475,000.

Total resultant revenue was 12.6% up to an astronomic £18.536bn. Operating profit grew by 19.3% to a similarly muscle-bound £3.391bn.

Full-year financial figures and forecasts from Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki provide a mixture of sparkle and caution

Operating margin improved from 17.3% to 18.3%.

Naturally, Honda has no intention of standing still in its new fiscal year through to 31 March 2026, although the immediate forecast will

a positive turnover figure in its full fiscal year to 31 March 2025, thanks primarily to increasing motorcycle sales volume, the business undershot targets and profitability flatlined.

the best performance, 30.1% up to 186,000 units.

Turnover from utility vehicles, ATVs and personal watercraft, principally destined for North America, declined by 6.4% to £872.7m, due to a recall and subsequent production delay for the Mule Pro 1000 series. Revenue from general-purpose petrol engines grew by 5.8% to £493.2m.

obviously be amended quarter by quarter – especially against the current volatile geopolitical background. At the moment, Honda is predicting global growth of 728,000 units to a fresh peak of 21.3 million. But that will be confined to Asian and other emerging markets. It says the developed world is likely to face difficulties and European sales in particular are flagged for shrinkage of 45,000 units to 430,000.

-£ currency translation at forex rates on 13 May

SLIM GAIN FOR TEAM GREEN

Although Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ Powersport and Engine division achieved

Total twelve-monthly revenue grew by 2.9% to £3.146bn, against a forecast of £3.304bn. Operating profit fell slightly, by 0.6% to £246.8m, and operating margin retreated from 8.1% to 7.9%. Turnover from motorcycles for developed countries increased by 12.6% to £1.267bn, with wholesale volume 10.9% up to 234,000 units. Biggest contributors were North America, 23.4% up to 116,000 units, and Europe’s 6.6% rise to 81,000 units.

Revenue from motorcycles for emerging markets, mainly in Asia but also including Latin America, fell by 4.1% to £512.3m. Wholesale volume rose by 5.6% to 246,000 units. The Philippines provided by far

Kawasaki’s market overview for the year said that while street motorcycle sales in the US had remained firm, the offroad bike market had softened. And although the US market for utility and recreational vehicles is expected to grow, sales of the latter models has weakened, because they are susceptible to loan interest rate increases. Concern was also expressed about the US administration’s tariff measures having a negative impact on demand for both motorcycles, utility and recreational vehicles. On a brighter note, Kawasaki’s European retail motorcycle market remains strong and it says market share is growing due to stronger sales promotion activities and the effect of new models.

The division’s new-year financial forecast estimates that annual revenue should improve to £3.408bn, but operating

profit will remain virtually static for a variety of reasons.

-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 19 May

SUZUKI BACK IN THE FAST LANE

With sales expansion in India as the current relentless driving force, Suzuki’s motorcycle business has just delivered solid annual results for the 12 months to 31 March 2025.

Revenue rose by 9.1% to £2.037bn. Operating profit was a more modest 4.4% up to £208.8m. Turnover from Asian operations dominated, 16.6% up to £1.108bn. And inclusive Indian performance was to the fore, rising by 19.3% to £740.9m. Other emerging markets improved by 12.1% to £407.8m. Developed markets weren’t so promising. European turnover declined by 6.6% to £223.1m. North America was 15.7% down to £203.6m. Domestic revenue in Japan fell by 7.1% to £94.2m. Motorcycle production during the fiscal year grew by 6.7% to 2.042 million units. Suzuki’s wholly-owned Indian subsidiary manufactured 1.13 million of them, while various other Asia countries were

responsible for 706,000 and 91,000 were made in Japan. 114,000 were produced elsewhere.

Global Suzuki motorcycle sales volume increased by 7.9% to 2.064 million units. India was star of the show, sales up 18% year-on-year and exceeding a magic million for the first time – 1.048 million to be precise. There were another 647,000 sold into various Asian destinations and a further 264,000 went to other emerging targets. Developed wholesale markets looked thin by comparison – 30,000 in North America, 40,000 in Europe and 35,000 on Japanese home turf.

New year production and sales projection forecasts lacked detail, though. The former bills a slight decline to 2.028 million, with 1.824 million produced on an Asian/Indian axis, while sales improve marginally to 2.078 million, again focusing on Asia/India demand. Oddly, European numbers are expected to slip to 37,000 as America recovers to 33,000.

-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 12 May

NEW CARBON-NEUTRAL SUZUKI AT SUZUKA

MOST INTERESTING IS

Suzuki’s welcome support for a CN (carbon-neutral) stance keeping motorcycles with internal combustion engines alive. After last year’s Suzuka Eight Hours Endurance Race featured an experimental GSXR1000R running on E40 biofuel which acheived a top-ten finish, Suzuki Motor Corporation committed to a new 2025 CN Challenge GSX-R1000R competing in the Suzuka Eight Hours this August. This bike will be fuelled by Total Energies Excellium Racing E100 certified sustainable go-go juice. Its engine oil will be a bio-sourced non-fossil product from Motul. Racing tyres from Bridgestone will feature an increased

ratio of recycled and recyclable materials. The JHI fairing will be made from recycled carbon and the fenders from an unbleached natural flax fibre compost material. Brakes will be Sunstar Engineering non-heat treatment steel discs, with Sunstar Tokai Carbon low-dust pads. A Yoshimura silencer made from TranTixxii eco-friendly titanium will be fitted. And even the team polo shirts will be made from 100% recycled fabric. It’s enough to make anybody want to kiss

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A tough first quarter with more to come?

Currently chaotic influences in the UK motorcycle market are by no means exclusive. Faced with struggling economies throughout Europe, the USA, and even Japan, money is too tight to mention for many consumers.

BMW TRYING TO BE CLEVER

This early in what could prove to be a fraught fiscal year, BMW Motorrad is keeping its cards very close to the corporate chest in a distinctly difficult market environment. During the first quarter of 2025, most Motorrad parameters showed signs of stumbling. Total revenue in this three-month period fell by 7.6% to £686.2m. Operating profit was 28.3% down to £64.7m. Operating margin declined from 12.2% to 9.4%. Pre-tax earnings were 29.2% lower at £63.8m. Net profit sank by 30.7% to £44.3m. The brand’s global retail motorcycle and scooter sales retreated by 3.9% to 44,609 units.

Flagging a fresh angle, the BMW Group’s Q1 statement highlighted a stable demand situation in its motorcycles segment, where deliveries to customers are predicted to increase slightly owing to the full availability of models, including the R1300 GS Adventure, but then ran out of excuses. The segment operating margin is apparently expected to range between 5.5% and 7.5% – well below where it is now – and the segment

return on capital employed (RoCE) should remain between 13% and 17%, no significant change on an annual outlook basis.

Total Motorrad revenue in this threemonth period fell by 7.6% to £686.2m. Operating profit was 28.3% down to £64.7m

Hunting more reasons to be cheerful, BMW Group noted a rebound in exports ahead of anticipated US import tariffs. But it couldn’t ignore the fact that while inflation rates have stabilised in both the US and Europe, geopolitical developments and trade tensions have now become persistent sources of risk, so higher tariffs and the

associated upward pressure on prices could cause inflation to rise again. €-£ currency translation at forex rates applicable on 7 May

DUCATI PROFIT DIVE

Admitting to a “slow start” in the first quarter of 2025, Ducati’s reduced revenue and retail sales were a reflection of challenging market conditions and the precursor of worse news.

As the solitary motorcycling member of Volkswagen’s luxury-oriented Brand Group Progressive, and its weakest performer behind Audi, Bentley and Lamborghini, quarterly Ducati turnover fell by 6% to £209.3m. The consequence was a dramatic 43.7% dive in operating profit to £12.8m. Operating margin declined from 10.5% to 6.3%, although the Bologna-based company claimed these poor results were partly offset by a better model mix and positive pricing effects.

Total production during the period was 0.8% down to 16,779 units. Dual/ Hyper segmental output, featuring cash-cow Multistrada leadership as well as Hypermotard and Desert X models, grew by 10.1% to 7760 units. Sport, covering Supersport and Panigale, put on 28.4% to 3696 units. Scrambler sub-brand models added 26.3% to 2385 units. Only the Naked/Sport Cruiser segment encapsulating the Diavel, Monster

and Streetfighter ranges declined, 39.2% down to 2938 units.

Retail volume worldwide dropped by 3.5% to 11,947 units. Only Sport prospered in any real sense, climbing by 42.3% to 2790 units. Scrambler essentially flatlined, just 0.4% up at 1428 units. Naked/Sport Cruiser fell by 33.2% to 2270 units. Dual/Hyper sunk by a slim 2.5% to 5459 units.

European dealers were responsible for 65% of Ducati’s retail sales, a 1% increase. Sales into China including Hong Kong accounted for just 2%, down from 3%. US purchases amounted to 11%, falling from 12%, although it was obviously too early to factor in any potential impact of tariffs on US foreign imports. Other markets sold a further 22%, rising from 21%.

Audi’s Q1 2025 results statement also flagged up the launch of Ducati’s entry into the motocross firmament with its Desmo450 MX, but didn’t give specific details of imminent market availability, noting only that this will be the first model in a complete range of specialist off-road bikes.

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

HARD TIMES AT HARLEY

In the first quarter of 2025, consolidated Harley-Davidson turnover declined by 23.2% to barely scrape a billion quid. Revenue from its main HDMC business making motorcycles, parts, accessories, apparel, etc, was 26.7% down to £815.2m. This shortfall was primarily blamed on a deliberate decrease in global motorcycle shipment volume, which were cut by 33.1% to 38,601 units.

Early retail sales were difficult too. Global deliveries to customers were 21.3% down to 31,010 units. US domestic numbers struggled – 25.3% down to 19,207. Canada was 4.3% up at 1685. The EMEA region, predominantly Europe, fell marginally by 1.7% to 5175. Asia Pacific was hammered, 27.7% in arrears on 4362. Latin America retreated by 6.4% to

from the HDFS business providing POS consumer credit and inventory finance for US dealers slipped by 1.5% to £184.5m. However, HDFS operating profit rose by 18.9% to £48.3m. Reduced provision for bad debts and lower operating costs were largely held responsible for this glimmer of forlorn hope.

Yamaha’s operating profit suffered a much more severe

Q1 performance for Harley’s LiveWire electric bike spin-off was lamentable. Revenue slumped by 41.7% to £2.06m, as volume plummeted by 71.8% to only 33 units sold. The resultant operating loss was £14.9m.

Consolidated operating profit for Harley-Davidson as a whole dived by 38.8% to £123.2m. Net profit plunged by 43.4% to a mere £100.3m.

Harley’s soon-to-depart chief executive Jochen Zeitz (who has recently managed to fend off forcible board-room expulsion by disgruntled activist investors, but is still committed to retirement this year once a suitable replacement has been found) desperately spun some excuses.

“Our first quarter results were ahead of expectations in many areas, while retail sales in the US came in softer than anticipated,” he pleaded.

“We remain focused on navigating the challenging economic and tariff environment, through diligent execution of our cost productivity measures, supply chain

mitigation, tight operating expense control and reducing dealer inventory. In addition, we remain committed to driving retail sales through increased marketing initiatives.” Maybe he just discovered the BOGOF miracle?

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

FALLING ON YAMAHA’S CORPORATE SWORD

Yamaha’s motorcycle business management made a frank admission that the first quarter of its 2025 fiscal year wasn’t exactly a pretty picture. “Lower unit sales, higher procurement costs and increased R&D expenses, as well as higher labour costs and other selling and administration expenses, led to decreased revenue and profits,” the company confessed.

Total revenue from motorcycle operations during the period fell by 5% to £1.954bn. But operating profit suffered a much more severe 45.6% decline to just £149.6m. Operating margin plunged from 13.4% to 7.7%. Global unit sales were 4.9% down to 1.168 million.

Developed-world revenue was 8.1% down to £496.9m. Within that, Europe dropped by 14.2% to £274.5m and unit sales sank by 8.6% to 53,000. North America managed a much smaller 1.8% turnover retreat at £143.4m, as unit sales flatlined on 26,000. Japan actually increased revenue by 4.9% to £55.2m and saw volume improve by 5.6% to 19,000. Revenue from Asian markets fell slightly by 1.4% to £1.109bn. Unit sales volume was 5.1% down to 901,000. In Latin America and other markets, revenue fell by 11.1% to £346.8m. Non-specific unit volume from these was quoted as 5.6% down to 167,000.

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

Revenue

Ducati Desmo450 MX

Harley’s LiveWire electric bike spinoff’s performance was lamentable. Revenue slumped by 41.7%

Global share prices

A snapshot of motorcycle and ATV industry share performance across key manufacturers and major global markets. BDN financial editor Roger Willis reports

USA – MORE THREATS FROM TRUMP

In New York, trading began on a dark note, as Moody’s stripped the US of its triple-A credit rating and equities showed signs of a retreat in response. And then President Trump abruptly threatened steep new tariffs on the European Union. Startled by this sudden return to all-out trade warfare, investors on both sides of the Atlantic initiated a desperate sell-off. Key Wall Street market indices therefore closed the week in negativity. The blue-chip S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average respectively booked 2.6% and 2.5% losses. Techheavy NASDAQ Composite stocks also fell by 2.5%. S&P’s MidCap 400, where powersports manufacturers lurk, took harsher punishment, plunging by 3.6%. Within that, Harley-Davidson’s share price flatlined, while its LiveWire electric bike spin-off’s value dived, teetering on the cusp of a solitary dollar. The only biker beneficiary was NASDAQ-listed electric delivery scooter purveyor NIU, cashing in on the temporary tariff respite for imports from China.

EUROPE – LAST MINUTE REPRIEVE

Amazingly, Trump’s sudden 50% tariff assault on the EU survived for less than 48 hours. Following a phone call to the White House from European Commission supremo Ursula von der Leyen, Trump extended the EU’s deadline to negotiate tariffs by more than a month to 9 July. However, eurozone indices had already taken a hammering. In Germany, Frankfurt’s Xetra Dax had fallen by 1.6%. The FTSE MIB in Milan copped a 4% decline and the Wiener Börse ATX in Austria dropped by 3.5%. Biker-related European automotives had lost ground too, with the share prices of BMW, Volkswagen and Piaggio all sinking. Notable exception was KTM and its parent Pierer Mobility, whose shares soared upon news that the company had received a financial bale-out from leading Indian stakeholder Bajaj Auto.

JAPAN – MONEY TOO TIGHT TO MENTION

The Nikkei 225 market index in Tokyo and Osaka turned negative by 1.1%, after a report that Japanese long-term borrowing costs had hit another record high. Japan still has no resolution in sight for the scale of tariffs it will face from automotive exports to the US. But every indigenous manufacturer has set aside huge amounts to cover the inevitable grief.

INDIA – BANKING ON BOMBS?

The brief post-war rally for Mumbai’s Bombay and National stock exchanges petered out. Both the S&P BSE Sensex 30 and NSE Nifty 50 indices fell in unison to 0.7% losses, as a resurgence of nuclear sabre-rattling between combatants (India and Pakistan) set nerves on edge once more. Motorcycle manufacturing share prices displayed degrees of negativity.

CHINA – STILL IN A FIX

The Beijing government may be resting on its laurels, as far as the recently concluded US-China trade pact goes, but couldn’t have been very pleased with the latest weak Chinese economic and industrial output data knocking Asian equities. Shanghai’s SSE Composite index fell by 0.6% and the blue-chip CSI 300 covering Shanghai and Shenzhen was 0.2% down. Half of the 10 listed Chinese motorcycle manufacturers, almost all exporters, were on losing streaks.

USA

Europe

Japan

India

China (yuan)

Electric news Urban Moto takes on Sirris suspension

UK electric motorcycle and e-bike firm Urban Moto has signed a deal to import and distribute Sirris electric motorcycle suspension products. Urban Moto will supply premium forks and shocks and provide a full technical support service to customers and dealers. Sirris, based in New Hampshire, USA, was founded in 2024 and specialises in high-end e-bike suspension, with a team that has decades of experience gained at brands like Fox and Öhlins.

Urban Moto Distribution CEO Jamie Masterman said: “To date suspension and the new breed of electric motorcycles has been the weakest link, most machines are running MTB suspension, but even high-end MTB kit is not designed for the weight and power levels now being seen on the latest generation of electric motorcycles. Traditional motocross suspension is overkill and adds too much weight. Sirris brings a new purpose-designed suspension to bring the best of both worlds.”

Graham Sillis, founder of Sirris, added: “The UK has a deep riding culture and consistently produces top competitors at the highest level of racing. Teaming up with Urban Moto is the perfect fit for Sirris to offer comprehensive support and a distribution network for our growing range of suspension products.” www.urbanmoto.co.uk

Vmoto extends Porsche race support deal

ELECTRIC URBAN MOBILITY FIRM VMOTO HAS EXTENDED its deal with the Italian Porsche Carrera Cup one-make race series until 2027.

The high-end championship races 911 GT3 cars worldwide, and the extension of the deal means that Vmoto CUx electric scooters will be the series’ official paddock transport for another two years.

Stark’s record numbers

Spanish electric off-road brand Stark Future enjoyed a bumper April, posting its highest-ever monthly revenue of €18.3m, resulting in an EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) of €2.8m.

“This achievement comes barely two years after Stark Future’s first commercial sales, remarkably faster than incumbent EV leaders, and more resembling the growth rates of some of the world’s most successful technology firms in history,” said Anton Wass, CEO of Stark Future.

Registrations data

Alternative powered two wheeler registrations for April 2025

Steering clear of April Fool’s jokes, the fourth month of 2025 proved to be even worse than usual for battery-electric bike prospects. Total sparky registrations plummeted by 41.8% to just 241 units. Overall market share dropped to 2.8%, from 4.2% in April last year.

The up-to-4kw moped sector was savaged, falling by 62.2% to 85 units. Best-sellers were 14 samples of the trailie-styled Talaria TL 4000, otherwise known as the Sting R, which originates from China. Up-to-11kW machines with approximate 125cc equivalence actually boasted a 4.4% increase to 142 units, headed up by a 32-strong

fleet of scambler-style Vmoto Super Soco TC Wanderers.

And then the really bad news began. Seven bikes lurked in the up-to-35kW slot, which declined by 72%. Two of them were identifiable as LiveWire S2 Alpinista steeds from Harley-Davidson’s spin-off electric brand. Over-35kW motorcycles had sunk by 20% – from five to four – with none identifiable. A solitary example of the 2.5kW Electric Motion Epure Factor-e occupied the Exempt category, which had shrivelled by 93.8%. A further two more machines were labelled “unknown”.

Total electric registrations in the year to date have fallen by 25.2% to 889 units, representing an overall market share of 3%.

Vmoto Super Soco TC Wanderer

With off-road correspondent Rick Kemp

Works Connection chooses Apico

Apico Factory Racing has announced that it is the new distributor of Works Connection off-road products in the UK. Works Connection has been manufacturing high-quality motocross hard parts from its home in northern California since 1989. The company initially gained recognition in the 1990s by supplying top AMA motocross teams with components such as skid plates, frame guards, bike stands and radiator braces. Over the years its product range has expanded to include precision items

the Pro Launch Start Device, which attaches to the front forks and locks the suspension down for better traction off the start line. Works Connection claims it is the lightest such device on the market, at just 50g.

Dylan Brown, owner of Apico, said: “Works Connection is a brand I’ve followed since the early days. Seeing their parts on AMA factory machinery over the decades showcases the race-bred quality of their products. The stand-out item for me is the Pro Launch Start Device, which revolutionized race starts in motocross.

Connection range to our network of more than 600 dealers across the UK, providing riders with a vast selection of products.”

Eric Phipps, founder and owner of Works Connection, was equally enthusiastic about the new deal. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Apico Factory Racing as our distributor for Works Connection products in the UK. After our initial meetings, it was clear that we share similar business practices and visions for the future. It’s always a pleasure to collaborate with individuals who are as passionate about motocross and business as we are. We look forward to working with Dylan and Anna to supply our products to the UK market”, he said.

Apico Factory Racing 01282 473 190; sales@apico.co.uk

Apico owners Anna Lena Eriksson and Dylan Brown with products from the Works Connection range

The Works Connection Pro Launch Start Device

the addition of new 180 RXR and 250 RXR models, joining the already popular 110 RXR.

The new 180 RXR features a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. and is said to be ideal for both beginners and experienced riders. Priced at £1799, it comes equipped with electric start, hydraulic shocks, front and rear disc brakes and an automatic CV chain drive. The 250 RXR (pictured above) features a larger capacity single-cylinder, four-stroke motor with electric start and manual transmission. Its twin A-arm front and single shock rear suspension make it suitable for leisure, sports, and racing activities. SRP is £1999.

The new machines join the entry-level 110 RXR, a budgetfriendly off-road machine for young riders, which features an adjustable thumb-throttle restrictor and automatic transmission for its £1099 RRP.

For trade inquiries regarding 10TEN in selected regions, contact Drew Marshall at Dualways on 01623 708607, drew.m@dualways.com or visit www.dualways.com

Tyres for the modern adventurer

Mitas has launched the new Enduro Trail–ADV 2 tyre, specifically designed to perform across a variety of surfaces, from road to medium off-road terrains. It is currently available in 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 sizes, with additional options for larger adventure motorcycles expected to be released by the end of this year.

The new tyre combines on-road performance with off-road capability, and features a tread design inspired by the Mitas Enduro Trail+ but adapted for 70% on-road and 30% off-road use. Its high silica content gives “exceptional” grip in wet conditions, while the new carcass structure offers stability and comfort at high speeds, according to the manufacturer.

Additionally, Mitas has announced that its Enduro Trail+ tyres will be fitted as original equipment on 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R and KTM 125 Enduro R motorcycles. www.mitas-moto.com

MATTERS MARKETING

Expert advice to improve how you promote and sell productsyour servicesor

WHO ARE MY COMPETITORS?

In business, it’s really important to know just who your competitors really are, otherwise you can fall into the trap of responding to the wrong threat. To illustrate this, let me take you back about 35 years to when I first started out in the motorcycle industry (I was very young at the time!). Westgate Road in Newcastle was a Mecca for bikers. ‘The Hill’ was lined on either side with motorcycle dealers, selling new and used machines, clothing and accessories. It was a sales rep’s paradise – you could visit more than a dozen dealers in a day, on foot, and finish in time for a couple of pints of ‘Newky Brown’ in the Bigg Market before heading home.

You might think that all those retail outlets, cheek by jowl, were competing with each other, and to an extent that was true. However, the key to their success was to offer variety, and shops tended to stock different brands or offer specialist services to avoid discounting.

As a result, the entire street was a destination for riders, who came from far and wide. In pre-internet times, you could browse

for almost anything bike-related there. Westgate Road’s fortunes started to decline as internet use increased, because shoppers no longer needed to visit a store in person. Competition came not from neighbouring bricks-andmortar dealers but from online retailers. Supermarkets are another prime example. Sainsbury’s and Tesco match

Supermarkets have worked out that losing customers to the ‘discounters’ is a bigger concern than losing customers to each other

Aldi prices on hundreds of products. At the same time, Asda and Morrisons have their own versions, matching both Aldi and Lidl. Clearly, they have worked out that losing customers to the ‘discounters’ is a bigger concern than losing customers to each other. Waitrose is conspicuously absent

Dan Sager from FabBiker PR looks at how to identify the competition for your business: where are potential customers heading to shop?

from that group. Its sights will be firmly set on Marks & Spencer stores and Ocado, so there is little benefit in slashing prices to compete with Lidl or Aldi. Let’s face it, when you’re shopping for Fairtrade organic vegan gluten-free hummus, only the best will do!

Returning to your own business, how do you identify your competitors? Your existing customers are a good starting point. If they tend to come from the local area, then your immediate competition most likely comes from similar businesses in your locality. Maybe they mainly buy premium brands, in which case your competitors will be from a much wider area, both online and in-store.

Ask yourself the following question: if they aren’t buying from me, where are they shopping? You might be surprised by the answer! 

NEXT MONTH

We ask, does your business need a rebrand?

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

Contact 01237 422660 or adsales@dealernews.co.uk

The Business

It’s not easy being green

Greenwashing is a problem for any business making environmental claims

Being ‘green’ is the mantra of those who care about the planet. However, it’s also on the agenda of organisations seeking to increase their appeal and, by extension, profits. While the majority do right by the concept, there are those that profess to being kind to the environment but in reality, get caught out by their actions.

Consider McDonald’s, which, in 2019, introduced paper straws that turned out to be non-recyclable. Then there was Ryanair, which, in 2020, was called out by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) over false low-emission claims. And more recently, Anglian Water was hauled over the coals by the ASA over the concealment of its pollution record.[1]

AI CATCHES OUT ADVERTISERS

And it’s all becoming more interesting, especially where firms market products through advertising, whether B2B or B2C, as technology is intervening and unmasking more firms breaking the rules.

Jonathan Rush, Knowledge Counsel at Travers Smith, highlights that for some time, the ASA has been using AI-assisted collective advert monitoring. And it appears to be catching firms out over their claims.

Consequently, Rush thinks it important that organisations and businesses understand the heightened risks they face from increased scrutiny of green claims they make and also what they can do to minimise their exposure.

Greenwashing occurs where an environmental claim made about a business, product or service is untrue or

misleading

As he points out, “over the period of 2022-23, the ASA saw a 30-fold increase in the number of adverts it has been able to analyse. This, along with the ASA’s new strategy to proactively pursue socalled ‘greenwashing’ claims, means that businesses across many sectors are now falling foul of the regulator.”

By the end of 2023, the AI tool was processing over 500,000 adverts a month, and the ASA says that it contributed to the majority of adverts that were amended or withdrawn following ASA action that year.

MORE THAN A DEFINITION

Greenwashing is easily defined. As the Law Society – and countless others –notes, it “occurs where an environmental claim made about a business, product or service is untrue or misleading.”

The term’ greenwashing’ is quite old now. However, the real issue lies with organisations that conduct proper measurements but still make misleading environmental claims; products are being marketed as sustainable despite having worse environmental impacts

than alternatives.

This, according to Rush, “is evidenced by the ASA’s increased activity in the ESG space. In 2023, it introduced new guidelines on environmental claims in advertising, and in recent years, it has actively investigated and made findings in relation to a significant number of misleading environmental claims.”

As to why greenwashing occurs, some put it down to the desire to win business from eco-orientated customers and please stakeholders, others say it’s because of ignorance or a genuine misunderstanding of the rules.

ADVISING THE SECTOR

From a legal perspective, Rush says, “what regulators are asking business to do is arguably no different in principle from what they expect with regard to any type of marketing claim, namely that it should be supported by adequate evidence; and not be expressed in a way that gives

Essen tials

with Adam Bernstein www.abfeatures.com

a misleading impression, particularly when it comes to the business’ overall impact on the environment.”

None of this should mean that green claims are completely off the table; on the contrary, the ASA sees businesses that have managed to strike the right balance through the inclusion of straightforward ads that acknowledge the less-climatepositive aspects of their activities, indicates how early in their journey they are. Such material does not have to dominate, but it must not be hidden away.

All of this said, the current focus on greenwashing means that it is essential to ensure that such claims are thoroughly verified and that relevant individuals in the business (including at the highest level) are satisfied with the accuracy of the claims.

In particular, Rush says, “absolute environmental claims (for example, claims that a product is ‘100% recyclable’ or ‘environmentally friendly’) must be capable of substantiation or, alternatively, statements should be expressed in appropriately qualified terms.”

In 2021, the CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) published guidance for businesses advertising to consumers in the form of the Green Claims Code, which centres on six principles – that green claims made must be truthful and accurate, should be clear and unambiguous, should not omit or hide important information; should, if comparative, be fair and meaningful; should consider the full life cycle of what is being discussed; and must be substantiated.

RISKS OF GETTING IT WRONG

The ASA has demonstrated that it will take on abuse of advertising and is doing more of that with its AI system.

And as Rush comments, “with any adverse finding, a ruling from the ASA can not only have financial consequences for a business in terms of wasted costs when an advert is required to be amended or withdrawn but also cause reputational damage.”

Further, falling foul of the ASA also puts businesses at risk of coming within the crosshairs of the CMA.

Firms should take care that all information online, and in other forms presented to buyers, is accurate

Businesses should be aware that, from April 2025, the CMA gained significant new powers to investigate and enforce consumer protection laws in line with the Digital Markets, Competition & Consumers Act 2024 (DMCCA).

Under the old regime, the CMA had to initiate lengthy court proceedings to just establish a breach, but the DMCCA will allow the CMA to directly impose fines of up to 10% of global annual turnover if it finds consumer law has been infringed, “including”, says Rush, “in respect of deliberately misleading consumers about products or services. Individuals associated with

the breach could also be sanctioned.”

And beyond regulatory intervention comes the risk – at the extreme – of possible mass consumer claims. On this, Rush reminds us that “we have already seen significant group litigation being brought against vehicle manufacturers over the diesel emissions scandal; businesses must therefore give careful thought to how to mitigate these risks.”

KEY POINTS TO REDUCE RISK

Firms should take care that all information, online and in all other forms, that is presented to buyers is accurate, fair, not deceptive or misleading, and does not leave out material facts.

Broad-brush green claims are more likely to be misleading, inaccurate, or unsubstantiated than narrow, product- or servicespecific assertions.

It’s important to tell only the truth; green claims must not contain partially correct or incorrect information.

Claims should accurately represent the entire life cycle of a product or service.

Features or benefits that are necessary standard or legal requirements of a given product or service type should not be claimed as environmental benefits.

Green claims can also be made via visual graphics.

Information is everything, so firms should signpost buyers to any additional information that might affect their decision to purchase.

SUMMARY

To conclude, it’s perfectly clear that while organisations and businesses are entitled to market their goods and services, they need to do so with compliance in mind.

All the latest products, with Colin Williams

MAINTAIN WITH MINT

Voge DS625X 54

YET ANOTHER LIGHTWEIGHT, MID-CAPACITY adventure bike to tempt those looking for good on-road manners, combined with a bit of off-road action, has been launched into what is becoming a crowded market sector. The Voge DS625X is an update of the Chinese brand’s successful DS525X from 2023, but now with a Euro 5+ compliant 581cc engine producing 63hp and 57Nm of torque – an increase of 28%. The chassis has also been given a refresh, with the footpegs positioned wider apart and further forward to improve comfort, and new fullyadjustable KYB suspension fitted front and back. Tech features include selectable riding modes, switchable ABS and traction control, illuminated switchgear and a built-in 1080p resolution forward-facing camera. The DS625X comes with engine bars, sump guard, radiator guard and hand protectors as standard, along with a centre stand, span adjustable levers and an adjustable screen. There is a choice of Black Night or Desert Yellow colour schemes for £5999. MotoGB; 0844 412 8450; sales@motogb.co.uk

Malossi RX Black

MALOSSI DOESN’T JUST DO PERFORMANCE PARTS FOR CLASSIC SCOOTERS, ITS catalogue includes popular modern scooters too. Like the 2020-23 Honda SH125i, the best selling-big-wheel scooter in the UK, for which Malossi has created an RX exhaust system which claims to save weight and provide improved sound characteristics, yet is still Euro 5 compliant. The RX is made from black anodised alloy with a stainless steel manifold and bracket and a carbon fibre end cap, with a total weight of 3.5kg. SRP is £475. VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com

HJC F100

HJC’S NEW F100 SYSTEM HELMET HAS A fibreglass composite shell for light weight, with the party trick of having a chin bar that can be flipped up and over 180o to turn the full-face lid into an open-faced one. Dual homologation means it can be ridden in either mode. Inside there is a moisture-wicking liner, 3D contour interchangeable cheek pads, and twin intakes and an exhaust vent providing front-to-back ventilation. The main visor is anti-scratch treated, and comes with a Pinlock, while the drop-down sun visor has a dark smoke tint to reduce glare. It comes in four plain colours –black, white, titanium and blue – for an SRP of £299.99, and in red or white Hetal graphics and fluo or black Bios graphics for £339.99 SRP. Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

Fuchs Silkolene Carnauba Wax Polish

BEFORE DISCOVERING HOW FUCHS

Silkolene Carnauba Wax Polish performs, its worth knowing what carnauba actually is, and why anyone would want to smear it all over the paintwork of a cherished motorcycle.

Carnauba wax is derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm tree, a plant native to northeastern Brazil. Carnauba wax has been used for hundreds of years to preserve leather and wood, make candles and polishes, and for waterproofing fabrics for clothing and shelters.

To make carnauba wax is a labour intensive process, which is a big reason for its high price: leaves are harvested, dried and then beaten to release a fine, yellowish-green powder – this is the raw wax. The powder is melted, filtered, and refined to remove impurities. It is then graded as either T1, T3 or T4 (why there is not a T2 grade is a mystery), with T1 being the purest and palest in colour. T1 grade waxes are used in a huge variety of products, from foods to make-up, surfboard wax to car polish. The first car waxes containing carnauba were developed in the 1950s by custom car enthusiasts, and by the 1970s major automotive cleaning brands were formulating consumerfriendly waxes with high carnauba content which were easier to apply.

So, given that it is relatively hard to make, takes a long time to refine, and costs considerably more than more easily obtained natural or synthetic waxes, why do manufacturers rate it so highly? Well, that comes down to the way it outperforms rival waxes. Its high melting point (82oC, compared to 62oC for beeswax) means it is more

durable in hot environments, such as on sunbaked vehicle bodywork, and its hardness adds to its durability and makes it resistant to water, oxidation and UV rays. It’s hydrophobic, so gives that classic “beading” effect when it rains, and its naturally light colour helps to enhance colour and shine.

Application is easy: once the bike is washed and dried, wipe a thin coat of wax over the paintwork with a microfibre cloth, wait a few minutes for it to dry to a haze and then buff it off with a clean cloth. The first thing to note is that Fuch’s wax formulation has a nice creamy consistency, so is easy to work with, and it doesn’t fling off too readily if you use an electric polisher. The second thing is that a little goes a long way – a 500ml bottle is enough to put a sheen on dozens of motorcycles.

NEW CORROSION CONTROL

Designed to protect your bike from existing and new corrosion. This product is easy to apply, and once used it forms a thin film that creates a protective barrier against corrosion. OC211 - 500ML / OC223 - 750ML

For the test I sectioned off the bodywork into two halves, with only one side treated to a coating of carnauba. There was a visible improvement on the waxed half (see picture above). It’s not night-and-day, but the treated paint has a richer colour and more shine, with the difference more visible as the sunlight reflects off the paintwork.

At £14.76 SRP for a 500ml bottle Fuchs Silkolene’s wax is quite expensive, but it promises longer life and better performance than standard waxes, and its cost is competitive with other carnauba formulations from competing brands. Overall, it gives a fantastic shine and protective coating to motorcycle paintwork. I’m off to do my car now...

Fuchs Silkolene; 01782 203700;  www.fuchs.com

SHORT CUTS

BIKE IT STRAPS

IF YOU NEED TO TIE-DOWN A MOTORCYCLE

(or a quad, jet ski or MTB) in a van or to a trailer, then rather than ending up in a tangled web of straps, you could use Bike It’s new ratchet straps whose standout feature is that they have a self-retracting mechanism that winds up the reinforced polyester webbing neatly at the press of a button. They are 25mm wide, 1.8m long, and have an SRP of £39.99 per pair. Bike It; 02380 658700; tradesales@bikeit.co.uk

SUZUKI GSX-8R KIIRO

A NEW LIMITED EDITION OF SUZUKI’S popular middleweight sportsbike has been launched. With just 60 of the bright yellow machines coming to the UK buyers will need to be quick, but they’ll be encouraged by a selection of accessories included in the price. As well as the special paintwork, there is a seat cowl, smoked screen, fancy Gilles billet levers and a two-tone seat cover for the OTR price of £9599. Suzuki; bikes.suzuki.co.uk

CARDO ADAPTER FOR SHOEI COMMS SPECIALIST FIRM CARDO HAS developed a new dedicated mount to suit Shoei Gen 3 helmets (Neotec 3, GTAir 3 and J-Cruise 3). The adaptor allows users of Shoei’s latest lids to fit any second-generation Cardo Packtalk model to provide communications, music and navigation. SRP is £19.95. Pama & Co; 0161 494 4200; sales@pama.co.uk

Givi 50.3

GIVI HAS LAUNCHED A NEW FULL-FACE LID to help fill the lower end of its helmet range. The 50.3 has an ECE 22.06 compliant thermoplastic shell with a focus on aerodynamics to reduce noise and improve stability at speed. Ventilation comes from chin and crown air intakes combined with a rear extractor to provide plenty of circulation. The visor is Pinlock-ready, the interior is removable and washable, and the fastening is micrometric. It comes in Quasar and Vision graphics in a wide variety of colours for £179 SRP, or four solid colours for an SRP of £170. Givi UK; 01327 706220; info@givi.co.uk

Jekill and Hyde exhausts 3

THE LATEST ADDITIONS TO DR JEKILL AND MR Hyde’s exhaust range cover Harley-Davidson’s 2025 cruiser models – Street Bob, Low Rider S, Low Rider ST and Heritage Classic. The slip-on end cans come in a choice of black or polished chrome finishes and feature the firm’s electrically switchable valve to change the noise levels between three settings from “whisper to roar” at the press of a button. There’s a choice of three endcaps, also in black or chrome, to give a bit of individual style, and the systems come with a fouryear warranty. Price start from £2257 SRP. The Jekill and Hyde Company; +31 (0)77 3081070; info@jekillandhyde.com

Alpinestars C-1 Air

WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SUMMER COMES AN INFLUX OF MESH jackets to keep bikers cool, calm and collected. Alpinestars’ C-1 Air is aimed at Southern Europe tours and sweaty metropolitan commuters, and is made from relatively lightweight 450D fabric and several square metres of mesh for plenty of airflow. As is the norm for this style of jacket, features are minimal, with just sleeve and waist adjusters, and a pair of outer and a waterproof inside pocket. Protection hasn’t been left out though, with CE level 1 armour fitted at the shoulders and elbows. The C-1 Air only comes in black or silver (which looks closer to white), in both men’s and ladies-specific Stella sizing, for an SRP of £139. Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

Sena Phantom 54

SENA IS WIDELY KNOWN AS ONE OF THE big hitters in the motorcycle comms systems world, but it also dabbles in helmets. Naturally, the main thrust of its Phantom is the built-in mesh intercom, which is integrated into the ECE 22.06 shell, giving a smooth, uncluttered and aerodynamic form. The shell is fitted with a drop-down sun visor and LED lighting front and rear, including a brake light, and is also home to the simple three-button control panel. But the real tech is hidden away, with the Sena 60S comms system featuring Mesh 3.0 and Wave connectivity, which uses mobile phone signals to allow intercom across virtually unlimited distances. Harmon Kardon provides the speakers, which have AI-based noise-cancelling which claims to eliminate wind and other environmental noise, and the helmet’s internal padding has been formulated to provide better acoustics. The comms system is controlled and configured through a Sena app, which gets over-the-air updates to activate the latest features, such as voice control.

Thor Terrain 54

The Phantom only comes in gloss black or gloss white, in sizes from S to XXL, for an SRP of £447. Feridax; 01384 413841; info@feridax.com Motohaus; 01256 704909; info@motohaus.com

Mitas Touring Force SP

SLOVENIAN TYRE MAKER MITAS HAS BEEN INVESTING heavily in new tyre development since it was fully absorbed into Japanese tyre giant Yokohama’s operations in 2023, creating new rubber for the agricultural, truck and construction markets. But now it’s the turn of the company’s motorcycle portfolio to get a new addition to its ranks.

The Touring Force SP has been designed for light and middleweight sport touring and naked motorcycles, coming in a size 120/70 R17 front tyre and three rear sizes: 160/60 R17, 180/55 R17 and 190/55 R17. It uses Multi Compound Tread Technology to give extended mileage from the tougher centre section and improved grip from the softer tread compound used for the tyre edges. The formulation has a high silica content, which claims to improve grip even more. Pricing yet to be confirmed.

Mitas Tyres; www.mitas-moto.com

THOR’S NEW TERRAIN RANGE builds up to a complete outfit suitable for the dedicated offroad adventurer, or the occasional weekend green-laner. The Terrain jacket is made from lightweight Ripstop fabric with abrasionresistant panels on the arms and shoulders. The fabric is treated with a water-resistant coating to make the rain bead off, and there’s a Hipora membrane to improve overall water resistance. Ventilation is important when working up a sweat on the moors, so there are twin zippered chest intakes and a large rear exhaust vent. Also, if the mercury starts to soar, the sleeves can be unzipped to turn the jacket into a gilet; the arms can be stored in the voluminous rear pocket. It comes in green, grey or sand for an SRP of £163.18.

Matching Terrain pants feature a pair of waterproof pockets, leather panels inside the knees for durability and grip, and zippered venting panels. They come in the same three colour options as the jacket, and with two leg styles: tapered to fit inside boots, or a wider leg to go over boots. SRP is £147.39.

Last, but not least, are Terrain gloves, which are a lightweight design with mesh and Airprene fabrics for airflow. They have touchscreen compatible fingertips, TPR knuckle and finger protection and a simple hook-and-loop wrist fastening. They come in green or black for an SRP of £42.07.

Parts Europe; 0049 6501 9695 1035; sales@partseurope.eu

LS2 Advant II

HELMET AND CLOTHING BRAND LS2 HAS LAUNCHED A revised version of its Advant flip-front lid, imaginatively called the Advant II. The new version features an updated shell which now incorporates 6K carbon components, and a new visor locking mechanism. The Advant II is fully ECE 22.06 certified, and is homologated for use on the road in both full-face and open face configurations for maximum practicality. A new visor lock keeps the shield firmly shut at speed, and it fits via a quick-release system for fast changes. A tinted dropdown sunvisor is included, and a Pinlock 120 MaxVision comes in the box too. The Advant II is compatible with LS2’s Cardo 4X comms system. It comes in four solid colours for £249.99 or five graphic options for £269.99. LS2 Helmets UK; 01670 856342; ukservice2@ls2helmets.com

Vespa GS pistons 6

Scottoiler eSystem REP Connect

SCOTTOILER HAS LAUNCHED A NEW VERSION OF ITS programmable eSystem chain oiler, the REP Connect which can be connected to a CAN Bus controller from either Hex Innovate, Denali or LoneRider. This means that the standard model’s handlebar mounted screen is no longer required, freeing up space, reducing clutter and, helpfully, also reducing the price. The eSystem REP Connect plugs direct into the CAN Bus device, and the flow rate can then be set using the device’s software on a laptop. Thanks to some clever electronic wizardry, it also will only oil the chain when going more than 10mph, saving oil and reducing the risk of drippage when stopped. SPR is £169.99.

Scottoiler; 0141 955 1100; sales@scottoilersolutions.com

IT’S NOT ALWAYS EASY TO KEEP A VINTAGE TWO-WHEELER ON the road, as parts scarcity can mean even a relatively simple failure can be difficult to rectify. Owners of the venerable Vespa GS160, however, will be able to keep scooting a little longer, because VE has sourced Italian-made replacement pistons for the classic 1960s machine. Available in 58mm as standard, plus 58.4 and 58.8mm versions for engines which have required a rebore, the kits include rings, 15mm gudgeon pin and circlips for an SRP of £58.87. VE (UK); 01159 462991; sales@ve-uk.com

MT-09 colour matched panels

PYRAMID HAS LAUNCHED A RANGE OF COLOUR MATCHED bodywork panels to customise the latest Yamaha MT-09. Each is available in the OE colours Tech Black, Yamaha Blue, Midnight Cyan and SP, painted by specialist firm Dream Machine. A fly screen to reduce buffeting is £164.99, the front and rear infill panels are £114.99 and £119.99 per pair respectively, a cowl to cover the pillion seat is £149.99 and the belly pan is £374.99. All are made from ABS, and come with required fixings.

Pyramid Moto; 01427 677990; support@pyramidmoto.co.uk

Alpinestars Molly Air 56

TAKING STYLING CUES FROM CONTEMPORARY YOUTH fashion’s current obsession with outdoor utility clothing, Alpinestars’ new Molly Air jacket makes quite a statement on the streets. It’s an A-rated two-season jacket, with a perforated outer and plenty of mesh-lined ventilation openings to counter the spring and summer warmth. The black/almond outer is made from Ripstop recycled nylon and has a contrasting coral red liner, an oversized hood and lots of adjustment strap. CE level 1 protectors are fitted at shoulders and elbows, with external zips allowing easy installation and removal. It comes in a wide range of sizes from 2XS up to XL, with an SRP of £249.99.

Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

Nolan X-804 RS options

NOLAN IS A VENERABLE NAME IN the business of making helmets, dating back as far as 1972. The Italian brand has launched a new Lesmo graphic that it hopes will boost its X-804 RS Ultra Carbon sales, coming as it does in the extravagantly-named Shades of Style (grey) and Fury of Performance (red) options. The X-804 is a carbon fibre sports lid with extensive racing heritage, and as such it favours light weight and aerodynamic efficiency over creature comforts, so it’s yes to optional tear-off kit and hydration system, but no to sun visor or comms equipment. The X-804 RS Ultra Carbon Shades of Style and Fury of Performance have an SRP of £599.99. Nevis Marketing; 01425 478936; info@nevis.uk.com

No matter the road, whatever the weather –Dunlop Mutant has your back. The world’s first crossover tyre boasts hypersport-level handling, the best grip in wet conditions this side of racing wets, and exceptional touring durability. Mutant’s M+S technology gives you the confidence to just ride and conquer all conditions.

CONQUER ALLCONDITIONS

MORE R&G ADVENTURE RACKS

R&G HAS EXTENDED ITS RANGE OF lightweight aluminium Adventure racks. The racks allow the fitment of top boxes from Givi, Shad and SW Motech to a wide variety of machines. New additions to the range include fitments for KTM, Honda, Triumph, Kove and CFMoto. SRP is £99.99. R&G; 01420 89007; info@rg-racing.com

SLIPPERY SAM TRIUMPH

THE NEW 2025 SPECIAL EDITION TRIUMPH Trident Tribute takes inspiration from “Slippery Sam”, the five-time winner of the IoM TT in the early 1970s. The new colour scheme uses black with red and blue highlights, with a race number graphic harking back to the racer. A matching flyscreen, red wheels and a drilled aluminium undertray complete the look. OTR is £8045. Triumph; 01455 251700; becomeadealer@triumph.co.uk; triumphmotorcycles.co.uk

Rieju Xplora 557 5

LIGHTWEIGHT MID-CAPACITY ADVENTURE BIKES ARE A burgeoning sector at the moment, with regular new models being launched as manufacturers compete for a slice of the action. Latest to join the fray is Reiju, which showed its new Xplora 557 at last year’s EICMA show; it is now ready to roll out of the showrooms. Marketed as a “do anything” machine, tackling everything from commuting to green laning, the Xplora 557 has a single cylinder 554cc motor pushing out 47hp through a six-speed gearbox. The tubular steel frame is said to be both tough and stiff, and it comes with KYB suspension fitted at both ends, along with selectable dual-channel Bosch ABS and 17in wheels. Despite its adventure leanings, a low seat height of 820mm (a full 40mm lower than a BMW F850 GS) makes it more attractive to normal-sized riders, including female bikers. The dash has a 7in TFT screen which will link to a smartphone for navigation and calls, the lighting is LED all round, and there is even a USB port for powering accessories. MotoMondo; 01429 650555; andrew.davidson@motomondo.com

Oxford Omega Air WITH SUMMER UPON US, the temptation to forego sweaty, sticky gloves while riding is strong. But riding without hand protection is risky, so a pair of wellventilated yet protective gloves should be in every biker’s kit list. Oxford’s Omega Airs are a lightweight, shortcuff glove with breathable mesh panels on the back of the hand and fingers and a sweatwicking lining. A PU knuckle protector, reinforced leather palm and foam padding adds some impact protection. They are touchscreen compatible and come in black, black/ white or black/green in sizes S-3XL for an SRP of £49.99. Oxford Products; 01993 862300; info@oxprod.com

PROTECTING DUCATIS

GB RACING HAS NEW ENGINE protection kits for the Ducati Hypermotard 698 and 2020-24 Panigale V2. The Hypermotard’s single cylinder motor can be fitted with clutch and alternator covers for an SRP of £204 for the pair. The Panigale kit has a revised alternator cover which fits under the original bodywork as well as aftermarket fairings used for racing and track days. There is also a clutch cover to complete the set. SRP is £194.63. GBRacing; 020 8275 2630; enquiries@gbracing.eu

Camo Kriega

KRIEGA HAS RELEASED NEW VERSIONS OF ITS R20 and R15 biker-specific backpacks in an urban camouflagepatterned Cordura Lite material. Other than the new look, the spec of the backpacks remains the same, so they feature Quadloc harnesses, four compression straps for stability, soft-feel back panel and the option of a slip-in back protector produced by British firm Rheon. The R15 is available for £135 SRP while the R20 is £149. Kriega; 01244 280487; sales@kriega.com

Bike It guards 6

BIKE IT HAS TWO new sets of ProGuard lever guards for adding a racing look to sportsbikes and nakeds. The first is a clamp-on type, featuring a CNC machined anodised aluminium clamp suitable for 22mm bars, and a tough nylon stem and guard tip. SRP is £39.99, The second fits into the end of 13mm or 18mm internal diameter bars. The guards are made from nylon and feature adjustable tips to extend the length. SRP is £29.99. Bike It; 02380 658700; tradesales@bikeit.co.uk

On the Money

Doesn’t time fly when you’re having fun!

Here I am, having wallowed in the latest rendition of the Isle of Man TT races, as always on my doorstep, and quietly remember that a quarter of a century has now passed since Suzuki Motor Corporation and its Suzuki GB outpost so kindly paid off most of a substantial mortgage on the Willis family’s bijou Manx cottage.

Our business relationship with Suzuki had actually begun three years earlier, some months prior to the 1998 TT, at a new model press launch in Barcelona. There, I revealed an opportunity to “own” the TT course by acquiring branding rights for the 7000-odd bagged straw bales then forming gestural safety protection throughout its 37.73-mile length. Upon hearing this, Suzuki GB marketing director Steve Kenwood jumped at the chance, clocking that it would act as a brilliant spoiler to undermine Honda’s hugely expensive 1998 50th TT anniversary festivities. A back-door deal was duly done with the Manx government’s tourism division, which trousered one big wad, and I got another. Honda TT supremo Bob McMillan’s incandescent rage, when he found out, was spectacular to behold.

Suzuki proved to be highly appreciative of our profile-raising exercise, the monikered bales deal was rolled over for a repeat in 1999 and conversations ensued about what else we could do. These morphed into the creation of an inaugural Suzuki TT Village in Noble’s Park, adjacent to the TT Grandstand, featuring a wealth of amusements for loyal Suzuki enthusiasts.

They included a display of historic Suzuki race bikes, Paul Denning’s Crescent Suzuki BSB race transporter complete with star riders, a rolling-road dyno for punters to impress themselves by revving the nuts off their own Suzuki bikes, and a Suzuki Street Magic moped obstacle course upon which inebriated visitors could jovially maim each other. To help that along, we also had a Bushy’s beer tent replete with half a dozen voluptuous imported strippers verging on the obscene. And to raise the crumpet quotient even more, we recruited an equally voluptuous horde of

and forty years at the TT, for which we we’d be absolutely awash with dosh, given a larger Japanese contingent.

Events that grow so rapidly have a tendency to get out of hand. And the famously final Suzuki TT Village was no exception. But although our organisational finesse did unravel, we got away with the worst cock-ups by the skin of our collective teeth.

“Bigger and better” is great in theory until somebody ignores the plan.

Some aspects were excellent. Most memorable was a Suzuki TT course parade lap packed with star riders on machines of their

We also had a Bushy’s beer tent replete with half a dozen voluptuous imported strippers verging on the obscene

teenage girls from the nearby Ballakermeen High School, liveried in tight Team Suzuki teeshirts and very short skirts, to act as “pitcrew”.

It was an extremely successful attraction, and ran alongside a complete takeover of the then recently modernised Sefton Hotel on Douglas Prom, where Suzuki GB hosted Suzuki Motor Corporation’s European distributor conference, with a lot of senior Japanese executives also in attendance. Needless to say, cashflow into Willis coffers went exponential.

And after a satisfactory post mortem had been concluded at Suzuki GB’s HQ back in Crawley, we were given the nod for a repeat version – on a larger scale with a much bigger budget –in the forthcoming millennial year. The official TT 2000 excuse was a celebration of Suzuki Motor Corporation’s eightieth corporate birthday

the advice to f*** off. We surreptitiously demolished the bridge that evening to minimise further risk.

Our major new boost for Suzuki-riding TT Village visitors was provided by Fuchs Silkolene, offering free oil changes – a massively popular proposition with many hundreds eagerly taking advantage. The service was facilitated by members of Suzuki staff from Crawley and some dealer personnel, all of whom assumed that nothing could possibly go wrong. Until it did. And this was potentially far more serious in commercial terms. The culprit was legendary longterm Suzuki staffer Martyn “Oggy” Ogborne, best-known as Barry Sheene’s mechanic in his Suzuki-winning heyday and spannerman for Mike Hailwood’s 1979 swansong Senior TT victory on an RG500 Suzuki.

eras. Others were disastrous. We dramatically upgraded the Street Magic obstacle challenge with a rope and plank suspension bridge, a grievous mistake. Every entrant, sober or otherwise, was obliged to sign a disclaimer before tackling the course. Almost all of them fell off on the bridge. Although mopeds aren’t very heavy, they can make a big dent when they land on your head. Generally, punters shrugged off their injuries.

But there was one who didn’t. A presenter on Manx Radio making an outside broadcast, he claimed to be an experienced offroader – patently nonsense to experienced observers. He exited the bridge flailing limbs, broke a leg and was already bleating about litigation before the ambulance arrived. The signed disclaimer was waved under his nose and fortunately he took

The victim was some sad Geordie on a clapped-out 1988 model GSX-R750. Oggy had put the bike up on his bench, drained the oil and replaced the sump plug. Then he became distracted answering his mobile phone for a long call, inserted the filler plug and sent the punter on his way, blissfully unaware that he’d failed to replace the absent ingredient. Bike and rider reportedly covered several hundred yards before the engine went bang.

The punter was deeply distressed, because his pride and joy’s motor had been destroyed. Nick Barnes, top Suzuki GB staffer on the Island, took the obvious customer satisfaction route of offering him a brand-new current GSX-R750 instead. He point-blank refused to accept this solution and wanted his obsolete nail repaired. Barnes knew this was almost certainly impossible. But, grasping

a final option, he phoned Clive Padgett to explore the faint possibility that the Padgett dealership’s vast treasure-trove warehouse in Batley harboured a 1988spec GSX-R still in its box. Miraculously, the answer was “yes”.

To cut a long story short, the Geordie’s bike was shipped to Crawley, where it met the doppelganger from Batley. Crawley head mechanic and former test rider Roger Simmons, who had previously been busy helping our schoolgirl pitcrew, was charged with a hasty engine swap and no other perks for the punter, considering how uncooperative he’d been. Padgett donor left-overs were deliberately skipped.

We also had grief with a veritable mountain of Fuchs Silkolene five-gallon drums full of dirty oil, the disposal of which we’d simply forgotten to factor in. Fortunately, our security guys were dodgy as the day is long. Although we had limited access to the the paddock, where there was a small dump for used oil from racers, they assembled a fleet of unmarked vans to run a covert shuttle until we had successfully relocated and

abandoned the whole lot with full deniability.

However, getting wise to the fact we were facing a final showdown was unavoidable, as Village participants started to pack up and pull out before the final Senior TT race had taken its chequered flag. We were left to strip down and find storage for a staggering quantity of Suzuki signage banners, which took months to ship over to appropriate destinations in the UK.

Since then, big changes to the TT ethos have swept so much away. Adult entertainment – generally involving strippers and once big business during TT fortnight – became ancient history not longer after the millennium, “licenced” out of existence by puritanical Manx government edict.

Motorcycle industry customer-facing promotional activity at the Isle of Man TT was killed off by increasingly horrendous costs, owing to the Steam Packet ferries’ fare policy

stranglehold, now made much worse after its nationalisation by the Manx government. Island-based hauliers get some respite. But operations originating elsewhere and mounted on the scale perpetrated by the likes of Honda and Suzuki in fairly recent memory are now far beyond acceptable budgets.

A motorcycle trade aftermarket presence around the TT Grandstand area, with myriad vendors who used to attract many visitors, has also disappeared, driven away by extortionate pitch prices. The few survivors are now relegated to cheaper pop-up shops in Douglas city centre. One of them is Jimmy Aird’s esteemed made-to-measure Scott Leathers emporium. Aird had been trading round the back of the Grandstand for donkey’s years. Not anymore…

All you’ve got left is a corridor of necessarily overpriced food franchises, from basic burger vans to some offering fancier cuisine, but all focused on earning enough to pay for their pitches. Booze for the masses is in the sole possession of a pop-up pub

in steel shipping containers, run by leading Manx brewery Heron & Brearley.

Manx government control freakery prefers exclusive VIP and corporate hospitality centred on a built-forpurpose “Mercury Club”. And the TT Grandstand has been reserved solely for anybody who is prepared to pay through the nose in spades, to view startline and pitlane action. You can’t see it from anywhere else.

For me, the good ol’ days still beckon. At least I can sit at home in the cottage that Suzuki paid for, watching the one recent TT development with which I fully approve – live-streamed racing from around the entire course, available for less than 20 quid on the same laptop employed to write this mémoire. 

BRIGHTER MORNINGS AND longer evenings are finally here, making it hard not to jump on the bike every day, throw a pin at the map, and set off.

Honda was the most popular manufacturer in MCN’s Bikes for Sale section from April through May, with 18% of all sessions, and naked bikes were still the most popular style

Bikes for Sale

Used bike data

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

category, accounting for onefifth of the audience.

The most viewed models for sale consist of a mix of sports and adventure bikes. Honda’s legendary CBR1100XX Super Blackbird was top, with the more sedate NC750X adventure bike in second.

It’s similar in Bike Reviews: Honda was again most popular,

cornering 17% of sessions. Naked bikes lead the way here too, with a quarter of users. This is likely linked to the raft of new naked machines that have hit the market.

Topping the model poll was a trio of nakeds: the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS; Honda’s CB1000 Hornet SP; and Aprilia’s new Tuono V4 1100 Factory.

With more sun and warmth inbound, it’s hard to see naked bikes being knocked off the top spot any time soon.

ADAM OLDFIELD

Digital reviews editor, MCN

Reviews

USED BIKE MARKET HITS

THE HEALTH OF THE USED bike market saw a significant increase of just over 27% in April. Market health was the strongest it’s been in 12 months, with increased demand coming at a time when quality used stock is harder to find. According to sales data from Auto Trader Bikes, used

12-MONTH HIGH

motorcycles are selling, on average, within 29 days. Once again, nearly half of the models in the top twenty fastest-selling bikes are 125cc. Benelli’s BN 125 leads the chart, selling in an average of 4.5 days. Suzuki’s GSX-R125 and Lexmoto’s LXR 125 secured second and third places, selling

in an average of seven and eight days respectively. When it comes to biggercapacity machinery, it’s value for money that second-hand buyer’s are looking for – Royal Enfield has three models appearing among the twenty fastest-selling motorcycles, and Yamaha’s Fazer and Honda’s Hornet, both known for their good value when new, are also in the top ten.

EDDIE BAHN Account director,

Auto Trader Bikes

selling bikes on Auto Trader in April

UK registrations

Long goodbye for pre-regs

ALTHOUGH REGISTRATIONS

negativity is gradually reducing, there is still no escape from the blunt fact that a considerable quantity of pre-registered stock continues to distort the market.

April’s total headcount of new bikes plated dropped by 14.6% to 8506 units. Motorcycles and over-50cc scooters were 13.7% down to 8085, while mopeds and trikes respectively dived by 28.3% to 359 and 28.7% to 62. Internal combustion powertrains ruled the roost as ever, despite a 13.4% slide to 8265. The increasingly minimalist batteryelectric presence shrivelled by 41.8% to 241 units.

Perhaps identifying where many of those unsold pre-reg machines are parked, the 0-125cc mobility and short-haul delivery range’s uptake on fresh products fell by 21.7% to 2605. Best-seller status went to a 275-strong fleet of Honda PCX 125 scooters, which probably represented a lot of derogated stock. The budget 126-500cc slot also suffered, sinking by 21.1% to 1489. A new model, the extremely cheap Honda GB350S, topped that particular sales summit.

Stepping up into middleweight territory, 501750cc kit was only 7.6% down at 1145, with leadership from Honda’s NC750X. And then saving grace came from 8.4% growth to 1725 for the solidly enthusiast 751-1000cc range. Triumph’s Tiger Sport 800 claimed best-selling honours.

There

is still

no

that were broadly in line with the gaps being filled by pre-reg activity – which obviously they are all incentivising dealers to clear up as soon as possible.

escape from

the blunt fact that a considerable quantity of pre-registered stock continues to distort the market

But the new and impressively budget-oriented Honda CB1000 Hornet wasn’t far behind. After that, 1000ccplus premium products were disappointing, 13.4% down to 1301. BMW Motorrad’s bog-standard R1300 GS took best-seller accolade.

The MCIA best-selling brands chart inevitably conceals complexities. These span the ongoing pre-registrations, sell-through, and earlyseason new stock availability (or shortages). The three podium sitters’ April new bike registrations posted declines

Motorcycle casualties by year

Respectively, Honda fell by 11.8% to 1742, Triumph by 14% to 874 and Yamaha by 11.5% to 850.

BMW in fourth sank by 33.7% to a much lower figure of 552, probably reflecting a purely seasonal stock deficit following the new-plate surge in March. Kawasaki in fifth spot was barely touched, just 1.3% down to another low tally of 457, suggesting stock absence rather than pre-reg issues. But Royal Enfield had plunged by 30.3% to only 371 new machines sold, thinly disguising a surfeit of pre-

Honda’s

reg volume in urgent need of disposal.

Suzuki had the opposite problem, 46.4% up to just 309 and selling everything it could shift into dealer showrooms. Conversely, Lexmoto was 46.9% down to 270, a classic victim of the pre-reg trap. Finally, KTM also plunged, 48.9% down to a mere 269. That, however, could be laid at the door of dire supply-chain straits subverting output from Mattighofen. Some 229 Ducati products were tacked on the end, too, with no comparison because it didn’t figure in the April 2024 MCIA chart. And a pinch of salt could be inserted as well, given our blatant guesswork.

To conclude, the YTD state of play at stood at 29,250 new bike registrations and a notional missing 8662 machines adrift, at the end of April. Quite when we will return to dealing in meaningful data is open for debate.

FROM A PEAK OF MORE THAN 73,000 IN 1980, the decline in the number of reported motorcycle casualties closely matched the reduction in the number of motorcycles on the road until the early 1990s. This makes sense – fewer motorcycles in use equals fewer accidents and injuries.

However, this correlation ended sharply in 2001, when the number of accidents began to diverge dramatically from the number of licensed motorcycles. Despite the increasing number of PTWs as “bornagain bikers” rediscovered the joy of two wheels, the casualty numbers fell away, eventually reaching a fairly steady level of around 18,000 per year, less than a quarter of those 40 years previously.

New

Pre-reg stock still distorting sales, say NMDA

The new motorcycle market has displayed some initial signs of recovery, with it closing in April down 14.6%. Whilst this is an improvement compared to first quarter results, the NMDA remains disappointed with the overall negative total registration numbers compared to the volume of registrations in 2024,” says Symon Cook, head of the National Motorcycle Dealers Association (NMDA), commenting on the latest MCIA figures.

“New registrations for the month of April have shown a slight improvement despite a year-on-year reduction of 14.6%. This improvement reduces the year-to-date market decline from the end of Q1’s -25.8% to -22.8%.

Glass’s motorcycle market overview

“There are still high stocks of unsold, pre-registered bikes from the end of 2024 languishing in dealer showrooms and importer warehouses, which will no doubt be impacting new sales.”

Cook concluded: “April’s figures are a positive boost for the new motorcycle market, and have maintained March’s expected signs of recovery.

“Nevertheless, total registrations are still disappointing and suggest a continuing decline. As we enter a key period for selling, and experience warmer weather, the NMDA is hopeful that the market will continue its gradual improvement.

“The government needs to address uncertainty in the sector, should the motorcycle figures continue to decline, so as to instil confidence in the market.”

Data published by the Motor Cycle Industry Association showed another month of decline, albeit less dramatic than was seen during the first quarter of 2025, with April registrations 14.6% down compared to last year. Modern classic was the only style category to see growth, at 4.7%, and the biggest casualty was mopeds, suffering a decline of 28.3%. Meanwhile, year-todate registrations to the end of April were 22.8% behind last year.

Recent feedback suggests that the new market is variable, with some dealers finding trading conditions tough. Rising rider insurance premiums continue to be a serious hindrance, particularly in and around larger towns and cities. There are also reports of consumers being refused insurance in some areas, leading to cancelled orders. As a result, dealers are advising customers to obtain an insurance quote for the machine they are interested in before considering a purchase.

being quoted on new machines are steering consumers towards the used market, with older machines being more insurable and premiums more affordable.

Ongoing concerns about the lack of new riders continue. However, there might be an opportunity emerging from delivery companies, where staff are wanting to take up riding as a hobby.

High insurance premiums being quoted on new machines are steering consumers towards the used market

In contrast to last year’s wet Easter period, the current dry, warm and sunny Spring is helping to boost the market, with riders out on their bikes earlier in the season, leading to busier workshops.

Dealers are reporting stock levels as acceptable, and although finding quality stock at the correct price remains a challenge, this is to be expected as the season nears its peak.

OUTLOOK

However, it is not all bad news, with some dealers enjoying strong sales in April.

USED MOTORCYCLE MARKET

Sales activity for used machines in April was mixed, albeit more buoyant than the new market, and ahead of last year for some dealers. However, other dealers are having a tough time reporting that sales and demand are suppressed. According to some dealers, the high insurance premiums

April was another warm, dry, very sunny month, and like March, was the sunniest on record for England. However, this time it was also the sunniest for the UK. May continued on a similar note, providing ideal riding conditions.

Glass’s expects residual values to remain firm for machines up to five years of age in the coming weeks, with a marginal to moderate increase for pre2020 machines.

Paul McDonald Motorcycle editor