Magazine 01/2024 EN

THE NEW MAGAZINE OF SW-MOTECH

OUR NEW PRODUCTS 2024 › MORE ON PAGE 10

ERIK PETERS: HIGHLIGHTS & LOWLIGHTS › MORE ON PAGE 22

WER.PRI.MAG.EN.2024.1

01 24

PART OF YOUR RIDE

MOUNTAINS CALLING – THE DUSC ON THE FAMOUS NOCKALM ROAD. › MORE ON PAGE 14

Editorial

CONTENTS EDITORIAL Jürgen Swora

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BEHIND THE SCENES The journey of SW-MOTECH Employer Branding

4 8

INNOVATIONS Our new products 2024

10

TRAVELSTORY Call of the mountains

14

SHOWS & EVENTS Nice to see you

20

TRAVELSTORY Erik Peters: Highlights & Lowlights

22

BEHIND THE SCENES Interview with employees

28

TRAVELSTORY Blackout – American dream and wild life

32

COMMUNITY Why the EICMA is a content highlight for us

36

PARTNER STORY Get to know MoHo

40

EXPERT TIPS Irene Seidler – a clean start to the season Tobias Fischer – Sitting correctly on a motorcycle

44 46

INNOVATIONS VIA – We are building a cargobike

48

DEALERS & DISTRIBUTORS

2—3

EDITORIAL DEAR FRIENDS OF SW-MOTECH, I am delighted to welcome you to the first issue of our brand new magazine ”Part of your Ride“. As Managing Director of SW-MOTECH, I stand before you today to share a journey – a journey that not only spans the last 25 years of our company, but also my personal passion for motorcycling. for motorcycling.

A quarter of a century ago, SW-MOTECH began as a small company dedicated to manufacturing high-quality motorcycle accessories. Our love for innovation has made us what we are today – a globally recognized brand that stands for quality and functionality.

In this first issue, we not only want to tell you the story of our company and give you a glimpse behind the scenes, but also celebrate motorcycling in many different ways.

With a smile on my face and a tear in my eye, I want to share with you the fact that I will be retiring from the operational side of SW-MOTECH. This is not a farewell, but rather a transition to new adventures and challenges.

My upcoming motorcycle trip will bring me back to where it all began: with a journey.

This trip will not only be a personal fulfillment for me, but also an opportunity to use our products for what they are made for.

I would like to thank each of you who have made SW-MOTECH what it is today.

Together we have turned ideas into innovations and have the privilege of enriching the motorcycle community. I look forward to the exciting journey ahead and to continuing to be a part of your ride.

See you soon on the road!

Jürgen Swora — Managing Director, SW-MOTECH

PART OF RIDE. A

Behind the scenes

YOUR JOURNEY WITH SW-MOTECH

Into the turns, get set, go! Anyone who finds their way to SW-MOTECH in Rauschenberg, Hessen, will quickly feel the enthusiasm for motorcycling.

And not just at the annual OPEN HOUSE, our motorcycle festival with 35,000 visitors and a unique outdoor atmosphere. Everyone in Rauschenberg roars off into a veritable state of emergency to offer bikers and non-bikers alike a spectacle of TECHNOLOGY superlatives: with a live program, FOR THE a large dealer mile and lots WORLD‘S ROADS. of test rides – thrills included.

In our eyes, this special event reflects exactly what SW-MOTECH stands for as an international manufacturer of high-quality motorcycle accessories: an unbridled joy for motorcycling, pioneering technologies for the roads of the world and shared experiences as part of a very special kind of community. →

F YOUR ALWAYS.

1994 FOR A TOUR OF LIBYA WITH JÖRG DIEHL, JÜRGEN SWORA CONSTRUCTS A REAR TANK FOR THE AFRICA TWIN (1993)

4—5

Behind the scenes

2024 PART OF YOUR RIDE. SW-MOTECH IS ALWAYS AT YOUR SIDE.

LIBERTY MEETS FUNCTIONALITY: OUR EXPERTISE The concept behind SW-MOTECH was born in the 1990s during an African adventure by motorcycle friends Jörg Diehl and Jürgen Swora, who designed and welded together a rear tank on their own for a tour of Libya. With this valuable experience and business engineering knowhow in their luggage, the two founded their own company in 1999 together with technician Kai Jockel in a barn in neighboring Bracht, later to write a success story at the headquarters in Rauschenberg. As the world‘s leading supplier of motorcycle accessories, SW-MOTECH now exports to over 70 countries and continues to stand for custom-fit and durable products in premium quality: to make every motorcycle adventure unique!

The passion for motorcycles is the DNA of this company and we at SW-MOTECH use this enthusiasm to give our best every day and bring innovative premium products to the road.

With the needs of our consumers always in mind, we develop, produce and distribute over 4.500 products in Rauschenberg and at our plant in the Czech Republic. By continuously developing our solutions in constant exchange

with users and experts and preparing ourselves for every conceivable challenge, we aim to create sustainable added value for motorcycling. Our credo is: We only send high-quality, safe products that have been tested down to the smallest detail and that enrich every ride in the best possible way.

ADVENTURE, TOURING OR SPORTY ...

WE ACCOMPANY YOU ON YOUR TOUR

6—7

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF MOTORCYCLES WITH SW-MOTECH In the midst of an industry with a lot of momentum and as one of the fastest growing companies in the motorcycle industry, we at SW-MOTECH want to be an inspiring constant for all motorcycle travelers and bring people together. To this end, we value the exchange with our fans and critics alike. After all, our drive is to offer our users reliable equipment for limitless travel experiences, so that they can experience the world on their bikes with all their senses. So that they can enjoy every single kilometer. After all, that‘s what motorcycling is all about. Driven by the desire to travel, strong cooperation partners and exciting influencer personalities help us to share the stories of their varied and winding experiences, convey our values and make our products tangible – at numerous trade fairs and events in the truest sense of the word.

LET US BE PART OF YOUR ADVENTURE TOO!

VISION. MISSION. PASSION. THAT‘S US: › 400 MOTIVATED MINDS WHO CONTRIBUTE THEIR IDEAS › A LOT OF INNOVATIVE POWER FOR INTELLIGENT USABILITY › SOPHISTICATED QUALITY ASSURANCE › HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS, OPTIMUM FIT AND ATTRACTIVE DESIGN › SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT › AN ATTRACTIVE WORKING ENVIRONMENT WITH MANY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS › INSPIRING PARTNERS FROM THE ENTIRE MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY AROUND THE GLOBE

Behind the scenes

BEHIND THE SCENES

WHY EMPLOYER BRANDING MAKES THE DIFFERENCE In today‘s highly competitive working world, a strong employer brand is becoming increasingly essential, even for medium-sized companies such as SW-MOTECH. Individual freedoms and work concepts seem to be becoming increasingly important, especially for young candidates – the buzzwords here are New Work and Gen Z. A positive image is not only crucial for the recruitment of qualified personnel. After all, satisfied employees are also loyal employees. It is therefore increasingly about successful employee retention.

Rauschenberg is located in the heart of Germany and centrally in Hessen, is relatively well connected and only a stone‘s throw away from the popular FINDING TALENT university city of Marburg.

AND RETAIN Nevertheless, the particular challenges associated with a rather rural location and the generally increasing shortage of skilled workers do not support us either, so the focus should be on increasing employee motivation and achieving the greatest possible identification with the employer in order not only to find talent but also to retain it in the long term. How can this be achieved? There are a few things companies can do to achieve this. We at SW-MOTECH have also been focusing on this more and more recently.

INNOVATIONS MADE IN RAUSCHENBERG: EMPLOYEES TAKE CENTER STAGE There are now more than 400 bright minds behind our brand with the red bull. How can we become even more attractive for them as well as for suitable applicants? One of our answers is already clear: we want to offer our employees the greatest possible flexibility – as a familyfriendly employer and with a corporate culture in which they can feel at home. After all, the corona period has taught us that mobile working away

from rigid working hours works wonderfully for some specialist areas and departments. We have established a new salary structure and evaluate annually whether remuneration is in line with the market. We are also sticking to our motto of offering trainees the best possible opportunities and investing in our own future. Of course, we also have a number of benefits up our sleeve, such as bonuses, allowances, discounts and events. And we would argue that our working atmosphere – in keeping with our industry – is anything but sterile, stiff and fun-free.in short: it is and will become even more important in the future to signal to potential applicants that SWMOTECH offers them everything they need for an optimal balance between professional fulfillment and individual needs. That is why we want to involve our employees even more actively and have planned a major employee survey for 2024 in which all of these topics will play a role. We would then like to use this as a basis for creating valuable points of contact.

A transparent approach is the cornerstone of an honest and promising employer branding strategy and is also the fundamental guidepost for a healthy, growing company.

Part of your Ride: We look forward to picking up speed together with talents who are already with us and those who will find their way to us in the future.

WE ARE. PART OF YOUR RIDE

ALLE UNSERE MITARBEITER PASSEN LEIDER NICHT AUF EINE SEITE ...

WENN DU UNS ALLE KENNENLERNEN MÖCHTEST, BESUCHE UNS BEIM OPEN HOUSE 2024 › SEITE 21

INNOVATIONS

OUR NEW PRODUCTS 2024 RUGGED HANDGUARDS WITH A MODULAR DESIGN Hand protection is nothing new in SW-MOTECH‘s accessories portfolio. This year, SW-MOTECH presents a new handguard that sets new standards for hand protection and is designed and developed completely in-house. Adapt the handguards to your individual style: rugged look with Adventure shells and crash pad or sleek design with our Sport shells.

The basis is the backbone: The aluminum mounting bracket is adapted to the shape of the handlebar to protect brake and clutch levers.

Our model-specific applications feature matching mounting kits with different attachment options.

With an inconspicuous mounting point design, the handguards blend seamlessly to the handlebars.

ADVENTURE HANDGUARD KIT Model-specific

SPORT HANDGUARD KIT Model-specific

ALSO SUITABLE FOR YOUR MOTORCYCLE? USE THE BIKE FILTER ON SW-MOTECH.COM

10 — 11

STATE-OF-THE-ART ON THE TANK: OUR NEW WATERPROOF TANK BAG The most popular SW-MOTECH product is now also available in a waterproof version: The PRO Micro WP Tank Bag is a perfect addition to the lineup that incorporates the best WP design expertise.

The sturdy body is made of TPU material, thermowelded with shape preserving EVA elements.

The sturdy lid provides convenient access via its satisfying flip-down magnetic closure. The bag attaches to the tank with the well-known PRO Tank Ring System and its magnetic guidance. The PRO Micro WP is a tank bag in a class of its own.

Simple operation, elegant design and extremely durable.

Is there anything else you would need?

Waterproof? It has that, too.

PRO MICRO WP BC.WPB.00.028.10000 4 l 26,9 x 19,9 x 13,3cm

ALSO SUITABLE FOR YOUR MOTORCYCLE? USE THE BIKE FILTER ON SW-MOTECH.COM

ca. 955 g

INNOVATIONS

DRYBAG 300 BC.WPB.00.011.20000 30 l

DAILY WP BC.WPB.00.003.20000 22 l

PRO PLUS WP BC.WPB.00.027.10000 2–3l

LEG BAG WP BC.WPB.00.026.10000

BELT WP BC.WPB.00.005.20000

DISCOVER ALL NEW PRODUCTS NOW ON SW-MOTECH.COM

MORE LUGGAGE. MORE OPTIONS: EVEN MORE LUGGAGE FOR ALL APPLICATIONS The selection of soft adventure luggage from SWMOTECH continues to grow. Thanks to intensive development work in recent years, there is now a recipe for premium waterproof products. There is a WP product for every application: On the tank, the tail, the back, the leg or lashed as an add-on bag. The combination of functionality, reliability and elegance make the WP products perfect companions for any motorcycle tour.

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TOP ORGANIZED: UPGRADE FOR THE DUSC CASE Experience the case feeling in a new way and upgrade your DUSC with practical inner pockets and EVA inlays. The well thought-out inner pocket for DUSC M and L effectively prevents contents from falling out when the side case is opened. The light-colored inner material creates an appealing contrast to the black interior of the case, while small items can be stowed in the separate inner pocket. The EVA inlays – also awarded for the DUSC models M and L – are sturdy, robust and securely fastened with robust Velcro™ strips.

DUSC INNER BAG HSK.00.745.15000/B

DUSC M EVA INLAY SET HSK.00.745.15100/B DUSC L EVA INLAY SET HSK.00.745.15200/B DISCOVER ALL NEW PRODUCTS NOW ON SW-MOTECH.COM

Travelstory

MOUNTAINS CALLING THE DUSC ON THE FAMOUS NOCKALM ROAD.

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The majestic peaks of the mountains have always exerted a fascinating attraction on people. This is especially true for motorcyclists. The gentle glide on winding roads accompanied by the roar of the engine, surrounded by overwhelming mountain landscapes – an incomparable feeling of freedom that awakens a thirst for adventure in everyone.

The call of the mountains has also reached us and has led us to some of the most prominent biking spots in Austria.

TRANSALP + LUGGAGE = ALPINE EXCURSION. Choosing the right destination for our photo shoot always depends on two factors: 1. Which new products do we want to photograph?

2. Which motorcycles do we have available?

With the DUSC case and the drybags, the focus of the accessories was clearly on travelling, and the Ducati Desert X and the brand new Honda Transalp were chosen as the bikes for the shoot. The name ALPS. „Transalp“ quickly led to a NOCKALM ROAD. consensus in our team: „We GROSSGLOCKNER. have to go to the mountains, that‘s for sure.“ After a quick internet search, the details were finalized: Alps. Nockalm road.

Großglockner. The biker classics. A safe bet in terms of panoramic views and plenty of photo opportunities for our new motorcycle accessories.

→

Travelstory

SNOW, RAMP BREAKDOWN AND CONSTANT RAIN So we have heard the call of the mountains, but for now we can‘t follow it, because there is so much snow around the Grossglockner on the planned filming date in May (!) that it makes no sense for us to travel there. So we change our plans and reschedule the shoot for mid-June – after all, we want to ride motorcycles and not drift off onto the ski slopes.

With two prominent bikes and lots of film and video equipment in our luggage, our group of five marketing team leaves the quiet Rauschenberg for the Alps. The Grizzly Resort in Lungau, Austria, is our first destination, and from there it‘s just a stone‘s throw away to the famous Nockalm Road.

16 — 17

The DUSC case is particularly impressive when it comes to handling: it can be attached to the carrier in no time at all.

DAY 1: THE NOCKALM ROAD. After a balanced breakfast, we start our first day of filming full of energy, but the first setback is already waiting for us at the hotel parking lot.

When unloading the Desert X, a steel bolt breaks on the loading ramp; we manage to get the bike down, but the ramp still has to be fixed quickly.

Fortunately, the owner of the Grizzly Resort has noticed the incident and organizes an appointment for IN NUMEROUS us at the local garage, where CURVES IT GOES we deliver our Sprinter and the UP AND DOWN broken loading ramp a little later.

After a slight delay, we finally make our way up the 34 km long Nockalm road, which winds its way up and down numerous bends between the „Nock‘n“.

There is no doubt why this section is considered one of the most varied and beautiful Alpine roads.

The perfect backdrop for our new DUSC case!

Watching the countless cows on the mountain pasture, we take photos and film several scenes on and off the road, the beautiful mountain flair quickly rubbing off on our mood.

After a lunch break at the mountain hut with real Kaiserschmarrn, our group splits up: Some pick up the repaired Sprinter from the garage, the others manage the production of a product video and the drone shots. In the late afternoon, everyone continues on to Kaprun, 300 kilometers away, from where we want to explore the High Alpine Road near the Grossglockner. →

DUSC M HSK.00.745.10000/B 33 l 48,6 x 41,3 x 24,7 cm

3.900 g

DUSC L HSK.00.745.11000/B 41 l 48,6 x 41,3 x 29,5 cm

4.050 g

ALSO SUITABLE FOR YOUR MOTORCYCLE? USE THE BIKE FILTER ON SW-MOTECH.COM

Travelstory

DAY 2: THE HIGH ALPINE ROAD. The morning view from the hotel window does not bode well: gray clouds, poor visibility and lots of rain. We improvise and recreate a few scenes with the DUSC case: in the hotel room, the lobby and at the Desert X. Then, despite the adverse conditions, we venture onto the high alpine road, although the low temperatures and poor visibility make difficult conditions for content production.

The mountain panorama is obscured behind thick clouds and the rain-soaked POOR VISIBILITY road surface makes for a lot AND LOTS of respect and fewer turns.

OF RAIN Despite the poor conditions, we complete our program and find some exciting motifs to illustrate the waterproof qualities of the DUSC. Towards the afternoon, we discover a great backdrop with a gloomy mountain panorama and a suitable offroad section for a few action-packed rides on the Transalp. A little soaked but satisfied, we return to our hotel in Kaprun and round off the second day of filming with a well-deserved after-work beer.

18 — 19

DAY 3: THE GROSSGLOCKNER. The next morning, the weather has completely changed, typical of the Alps: bright sunshine and a pleasant 22 degrees Celsius. We change bikes and take the Honda Transalp back to its natural habitat today. Once again we‘re heading up the Grossglockner High Alpine Road and this time we are determined to go for the complete package including a view of the summit.

We quickly realize that we are not the only summiteers, the Alpine road is more reminiscent of a place of pilgrimage for motorcycle enthusiasts. At service stations and rest areas, we meet lots of like-minded people with whom we share our enthusiasm for the road and the mountains. A good travel mood is in the mountain air and we use the positive energy to collect lots of pictures and video footage of the Transalp and the new drybags. The location is simply perfect: green mountain meadows, colourful flower meadows, rocky screes, ice and snow. We enjoy every meter on the winding high alpine road and suddenly we have reached our destination: the majestic summit of the Grossglockner, Austria‘s highest mountain, towers before us. Amidst all

the tourist hustle and bustle on the Kaiser FranzJosefs-Höhe, we take a short break, take a deep breath and let the gigantic view take effect on us.

At this moment, we are simply overjoyed to have answered the call of the mountains.

THE WHOLE VLOG YOU CAN WATCH ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL WATCH!

Shows & events

NICE TO SEE YOU Looking back at the past 2023 trade fair season, we can unanimously conclude: „It was a complete success!“ After two difficult years of the pandemic with many cancellations and restrictions, we finally returned to normality last year.

Above all, we really missed „THAT WAS A direct customer contact, which COMPLETE SUCCESS!“ made the refreshing exchange with you on site all the more enjoyable – without any masks or social distancing rules.

We kicked things off in Friedrichshafen in January, which was also our first trade fair with the new mobile stand. Everything went really well and, after a smooth set-up, we were able to provide advice and support to many customers on site. At the same time, we got a taste of the Italian trade fair atmosphere in Verona and just one week later we had our next double guest appearance in Tulln in Austria and Wiesbaden.

This was followed by the IMOT in Munich, the Hamburg Motorcycle Days and Motorräder Dortmund – great events with lots of esprit and plenty of petrol talk. We also exhibited at the Motorrad-Days in Berlin, the ABR in the UK, Glemseck and, as a special highlight, the EICMA in Milan. Of course, we were also there again with the SW-MOTECH trailer on tour again, including at the Börjes Frühlingstreff and the Custom Bike.

WHETHER AT TRADE FAIRS, IN RAUSCHENBERG OR ONE OF THE NUMEROUS MOTORCYCLE EVENTS IN YOUR AREA: NICE TO SEE YOU WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!

2024

THE OPEN HOUSE AS A BIKER MAGNET More than 35,000 festival visitors came to this year‘s OPEN HOUSE under a bright blue sky and summery temperatures and celebrated an exuberant motorcycle festival. Over the entire weekend, almost 3,000 test rides were completed around Rauschenberg, a new record in the eventful history of our favorite event. The catalog of ideas for the coming year is already full to bursting and we will certainly come up with one or two surprises for the 25th anniversary of the company.

IT CAN GO ON LIKE THIS...

The past year 2023 has shown us one thing: We need trade fairs, we want trade fairs and we will continue to be present at trade fairs in the future.

The dates for 2024 have already been set and we are very much looking forward to being a formative part of these events as SW-MOTECH. Our factory sales in Rauschenberg are also firmly marked in the calendar again, as always with a B-STOCK offer and barbecue session.

26. – 28.01.

02. – 04.02.

09. – 11.02.

16. – 18.02.

22. – 25.02 23. – 25.02.

01. – 03.03.

07. – 10.03.

22. – 24.03.

06. – 07.04.

31.05. – 02.06.

11. – 14.07.

07. – 09.06.

30. – 31.08.

06. – 08.09.

20. – 21.09.

04. – 06.10.

05. – 10.11.

Motorradwelt Bodensee, Germany IMA Hessen, Germany Moto Austria, Germany IMOT Munich, Germany MOTORbeurs Utrecht, Netherlands Hamburger Motorradtage, Germany Motorräder Dortmund, Germany Salon du 2 roues, France March Moto Madness, France Boerjes Frühlingstreff, Germany High Side Ride Festival, France Harley Days, France OPEN HOUSE, GERMANY Glemseck, Germany Alpes Aventure Motofestival, France RIDE & FOOD – Auvergnats riders, France KAP TO SW-MOTECH, Belflou – France EICMA, Italy

r u o y art of

p

07. – 09.06.

RAUSCHENBERG THE BIGGEST MOTORCYCLE EVENT IN GERMANY

sw-motech.info/open-house

Travelstory

HIGHLIGHTS & LOWLIGHTS FROM THE BIGGEST LOW POINT OF MY MOTORCYCLE YEAR TO THE ABSOLUTE HIGHLIGHTS

SCORCHING HEAT. SAND THAT CREEPS INTO EVERY PORE. AND NOTHING BUT NOTHING. ENDLESS EXPANSE. YOU BASTARD.

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ly dies ‘ H ope on ive up! g u o y when

2 BEST FRIENDS. 2 MOTORCYCLES. 1 DREAM. ALAIN AND I WANT TO RIDE OVERLAND FROM COLOGNE TO SOUTH AFRICA. How did this dream almost become a nightmare and the lowest point of my motorcycle travels?

Fast Forward January 2023. What began as a crazy idea from a beer mood has now been Alain‘s and my everyday life for three months: we traveled across the Balkans and Turkey, once across Saudi Arabia and along the east coast of Africa AFRICA CALLING to Zanzibar. We spent the night FROM DREAM in the middle of the desert, TO NIGHTMARE howled with mountain gorillas, conquered the highest mountain in Kenya and laughed our heads off about the supposedly „most dangerous road in Africa“. Several crashes and minor mishaps later, we reach Namibia.

With our destination – the Cape of Good Hope – within reach, we head south along the Tiras Mountains on the most beautiful road in Namibia through the Namib. Apart from a few antelopes, we have the fascinating steppe landscape to ourselves.

A DREAM! OR? Suddenly a scream! So bloodcurdling that I immediately realize: this is no normal fall!

Alain‘s leg is trapped under the bike. I quickly release him, but only then does the whole drama become visible: his foot is twisted 180 degrees, his leg is broken several times. No chance of continuing to ride his motorcycle! And no help in sight. Alain, the hero, puts on a good face while I splint his leg with a fence rail and duct tape. There we sit. Scorching heat. Sand creeping into every pore. And nothing but nothing. Endless expanse.

You bastard.

The seconds drag on like minutes. The minutes like hours. After what feels like an eternity, a car approaches. Help is finally in sight!

While the driver mobilizes the emergency services on the next farm, I stay with Alain. It takes five long hours before a rescue plane lands on the dusty runway near our camp and flies Alain to hospital in Windhoek.

OUT? NOT WITH ALAIN! Hardly out of surgery, the old warhorse announces: „I‘m going on!“ 10 days later he is back in the saddle – a few nails and screws richer.

A week later, we can proudly say: WE MADE IT! THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE – WHERE OUR HOPE CAME TO A GOOD ENDED WELL. →

Travelstory

NORWAY – WHERE MY HEART BEATS THE LOUDEST After the nerve-wracking last few weeks in Africa – not to mention the sweltering heat and the unspeakable bureaucracy – I was drawn to a place that stands for peace and relaxation like no other: Norway.

I took the ferry from Emden in East Frisia directly to Kristiansand in southern Norway. I breathed a sigh of relief as soon as I set foot in one of my favorite countries. Traveling through Norway felt like a warm, soft blanket – and this year, even the temperatures were playing the same tune.

[X] times I‘ve been to Norway now. „Isn‘t it boring?“ I‘m asked again and again. I probably would have NORWAY IS asked the same question in ALWAYS GOOD the past. But Norway is always FOR A SURPRISE good for a surprise: this year for surprisingly good weather! With bright sunshine and blue skies, we drove up to the North Cape on absolute dream roads along rugged mountains and spectacular fjords.

DISCOVER MY TRAVEL REPORTS + MORE ON MY YOUTUBE-CHANNEL

FOR ME, NORWAY THIS YEAR WAS NORWAY WAS ALSO A SPECIAL ADVENTURE FOR ME THIS YEAR – AND IN TWO WAYS: Firstly, I started – or rather reanimated – my YouTube channel with this trip. Since last year, I‘ve not only been sharing my experiences on Facebook and Instagram, but also taking you with me on my travels in longer videos. Feel free to take a look.

On the other hand, this trip was a scouting tour for my latest road book „Let‘s Ride – Norway“.

Therein I not only tell you about my favorite places, but you also get the latest information and best buys for your own motorcycle trip to the North Cape.

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PYRENEES, SARDINIA & ROUTE DES GRANDES ALPES – A JOURNEY BACK TO MY YOUTH Do you know that feeling when you come home after a long journey? The first few days you‘re still looking forward to a comfortable bed and a fresh shower. But a short time later your gas hand is twitching and your motorcycle boots are itching?

I almost always feel like that. But especially after these fantastic weeks in Norway, I simply didn‘t want to return to the dull German routine. But where to?

BACK TO THE ROOTS! Back to where it all began 30 WINE AND years ago. With my driver‘s WILD CURVES! license fresh in my pocket, I rattled off to Spain on an old Yamaha XV750.

Wine, women and – no, not singing, but wild curves were the perfect combination for me in my early 20s.

Today, the main attractions are good food, fresh sea air and the Spanish zest for life. And of course wine and wild curves! I start in my favorite city of San Sebastián, which probably has the best food in all of Spain. Fully fed, I unfortunately have

to realize: The weather god – or whoever is in charge – has completely spent himself in Norway and is now wavering between thick fog and pouring rain as if drunk. I‘m not a wimp, but that‘s no fun. What now? Back home? Not with me!

Without further ado, I book a ferry from Barcelona to Sardinia and cruise for a few days across the southern European island that makes every motorcyclist‘s heart beat faster, before slowly heading home via the French dream road par excellence – the Route des Grands Alpes.

Pyrenees, Sardinia, French Alps – absolute places of longing for many motorcycle travelers and real pleasure destinations!

BUT CAN I BE COMPLETELY HONEST WITH YOU? THE EXOTIC ADVENTURE PLAYGROUNDS APPEAL TO ME THE MOST. →

Travelstory

SRI LANKA – WOULD YOU LIKE ONE MORE COG? When you hear Asia, which vehicle do you immediately think of? That‘s right! A tuktuk.

There is hardly a more iconic vehicle on Asian roads than these rattling three-wheelers. The funny thing is that despite having a car, motorcycle and truck driver‘s license, I am not legally allowed to drive this lightweight vehicle. So what do I do?

Logical: a tuktuk driver‘s license!

I‘m spending 3 weeks in Sri Lanka in October – not only to get my license for the tuktuk, but of course above all to explore the culinary highlights and the impressive highlands.

With my belly full of typical food, I drive the fiery red fun mobile through lush green tea plantations past wild elephants to the most beautiful beaches, where I am mostly by myself.

WHAT AM I MISSING FOR HAPPINESS? NOTHING. EXCEPT MAYBE A FRESH COCONUT!

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OUTLOOK 2024

GOOD PRESETS? ...

NOT MY THING! BUT GOOD TRAVEL PLANS.

Next year, there are some exciting adventures on my bucket list again. First of all, I‘m going back to Asia – no, not by tuktuk.

On my YouTube channel, I will be taking you to a place that is a real paradise for motorcyclists – and foodies. But more is yet to be revealed.

Let me surprise you! And of course there will be a matching road book „Let‘s Ride – [Pssst! Still secret]“ for you to follow.

In spring, you‘ll be able to accompany me live on my adventures at numerous shows in Germany, before heading off on one of the most dangerous roads in the world through 13 hairpin bends to one of the most important cult cities in the world. Well, can you guess where we‘re going?

OH YES, ONE THING I FORGOT TO GUESS: Alain‘s leg is now almost as good as new.

And that‘s exactly why we‘ll be tackling a new adventure together again in the second half of the year.

HAPPY TRAILS Erik Peters

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MY BOOKS + LECTURES YOU CAN FIND OUT AT MOTORRADREISENDER.DE

BEHIND THE SCENES

INTERVIEW WITH EMPLOYEES

PART OF YOUR RIDE – ALWAYS.

DIRK HERRMANN TEAM LEAD CUSTOMER SERVICE

HI DIRK, HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING AT SW-MOTECH AND CAN YOU TELL US TELL US HOW YOU CAME TO US? I have been working at SW-MOTECH since 01.11.2014. In the past, I wasn‘t aware that a leading motorcycle accessories manufacturer was based just 15 km from my home town. After reading the job advertisement, I applied and they haven‘t let me go since.

IS THERE A FAVORITE ROUTE ON YOUR WAY TO WORK THAT YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOY RIDING? DOES THE RIDE HELP YOU SWITCH OFF? The morning route takes me straight to work, but the journey home varies every day. Stops at the ice cream parlor or similar places are the rule rather than the exception. It‘s not just about the ride home, it‘s about quality of life.

DO YOU LIKE RIDING MOTORCYCLES? WHICH MOTORCYCLE IS YOUR CURRENT DREAM BIKE? I was born into biking, both my parents were passionate motorcyclists and also traveled a lot.

I got my driving license for mopeds at the age of 14, then at 16 I got my 1b driving license, which was still named I WAS BORN 1a. The throttle of 27 hp in the WITH A PASSION papers was of course never FOR BIKING of course never fitted to the bike ...

WHAT TRIPS HAVE YOU MADE BY MOTORCYCLE YOURSELF? I can‘t or don‘t want to list them all here. But my favorite trips usually take me to the mountains, the further south the better.

The respective dream bikes vary over the decades. You always try to get as close as possible to your dream. In the last decade of my life, it was the Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200, Kawasaki Z1000 and currently the KTM Super Duke 1290 R. At the moment, the BMW M 1000 XR is at the top of the list, although it‘s out of my budget.

IS THERE A PRODUCT THAT YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE? I can‘t do without a tank bag, simple answer.

It‘s like a „man‘s handbag“, I don‘t ride a meter without my TRS. FINALLY: WHAT MAKES YOUR WORK AT SWMOTECH SO SPECIAL FOR YOU AND WHAT MOTIVATES YOU EVERY DAY? The topic of motorcycles, of course. We probably have the same or similar problems here as in most companies, but it still has something to do with my hobby. The atmosphere is very relaxed, which is not unimportant as we spend most of the day together.

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ENRIQUE ARROYO DESIGN + DEVELOPMENT

HI ENRIQUE, HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING AT SW-MOTECH AND CAN YOU TELL US TELL US HOW YOU CAME TO US? I started my apprenticeship as a technical product designer at SW-MOTECH in 2019. I had been interested in the company and the industry in particular for a long time. I have been passionate about technology and motorcycles in particular since my early childhood. SW-MOTECH has always been familiar to me due to its local proximity.

DO YOU LIKE RIDING MOTORCYCLES? WHICH MOTORCYCLE IS YOUR CURRENT DREAM BIKE? I rode a motorcycle for the first time when I was fifteen in Spain, a Yamaha PW-50. Since then, I couldn‘t imagine life without motorcycles. A year later, I was able to buy my own PW-50 with my „savings“ and a grant from my parents. What I love most about motorcycling is the feeling of being free, the moment I put my helmet on I only have positive thoughts. However, I still have a few dream motorcycles apart from my Harley.

I particularly like motorcycles with their own characteristics.

IS THERE A FAVORITE ROUTE ON YOUR WAY TO WORK THAT YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOY RIDING? DOES THE RIDE HELP YOU TO SWITCH OFF? My commute to work is „unfortunately“ very short, so I use the time after work, at the weekend or on vacation for tours. In summer, I often wish I had a slightly longer route to work so that I could ride my motorcycle before work.

WHICH MOTORCYCLE TRIPS HAVE YOU UNDERTAKEN YOURSELF? My furthest trip so far was the tour of Norway after my training, which was made possible by the company and in particular by one of our Managing Directors, Achim. Many thanks again at this point!

For Alex and me it was a final trip, so to speak, we started the day after our final exams.

I also spent two weeks with my father and uncle on our Harleys in Andalusia this year. Another highlight was this year‘s OPEN HOUSE, where I had the opportunity to be a Harley tour guide. I‘m sure there will be a few more tours in the coming years.

IS THERE A PRODUCT THAT YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE? I particularly like the Legend Gear tank bag and tail bag, which have already proved very useful on several tours. I was also very impressed by the equipment on the touring enduros that I was able to test in Norway.

Otherwise, of course, the products that you have worked on yourself.

FINALLY: WHAT MAKES YOUR WORK AT SWMOTECH SO SPECIAL FOR YOU AND WHAT MOTIVATES YOU EVER AGAIN? My work at SW-MOTECH is special for me because I can turn part of my hobby into my job.

It‘s also very cool to see my „own“ products on motorcycles.

I am motivated by some good colleagues, positive feedback on the products and also by suggestions for improvement.

BEHIND THE SCENES

VANESSA HANDSTEIN PRODUCT SETUP

HI VANESSA, HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING AT SW-MOTECH AND CAN YOU TELL US TELL US HOW YOU CAME TO US? I‘ve been working at SW-MOTECH since summer 2020.

I first came to the yard a few years ago as part of an after-work motorcycle tour, because an acquaintance I was riding with wanted to show me that his tank bag came from here.

Until then, I didn‘t know that there was a premium manufacturer of motorcycle accessories close to home and therefore a potential employer in the motorcycle sector.

A few years later – after a long trip through New Zealand – I wanted to reorient myself professionally at home, so it was clear to me that I would send an application to SW-MOTECH.

I go for a longer after-work ride – usually with my partner – which is often rounded off with a delicious currywurst and the last rays of sunshine of the day.

WHY DO YOU LIKE RIDING MOTORCYCLES? WHICH MOTORCYCLE IS YOUR CURRENT DREAM BIKE? I used to enjoy riding with friends, but since 2015 I‘ve been riding myself and I always get goosebumps when I start the bike.

I can only confirm the feeling of freedom and passion described by many people.

There are many dream bikes – one of them is the Ducati Streetfighter V4.

FINALLY: WHAT MAKES YOUR WORK AT SWMOTECH SO SPECIAL FOR YOU AND WHAT MOTIVATES YOU EVERY DAY? Being able to combine my work to some extent with one of my hobbies and interests is of course a big plus.

Accompanying new products and developments in their creation process through to putting them online in the online store makes it very varied and interesting. In the process, you always come into contact with the latest bikes on the market.

The overall package is definitely completed by the many great people here and the relaxed working atmosphere that goes with it.

WHICH ROUTE ON YOUR WAY TO WORK DO YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOY RIDING AND HOW DOES THIS RIDE HELP YOU TO SWITCH OFF AFTER WORK? For me, there is no „one route“. Depending on the day and the time, I either ride straight home or take a more winding detour. On other days,

WHICH MOTORCYCLE TRIPS HAVE YOU UNDERTAKEN YOURSELF? In 2022 and 2023, I did a round trip in Sardinia.

Fantastically beautiful and a mega experience!

WHICH PRODUCT DO YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE AND WHY DO YOU LIKE USING IT? The PRO Micro tank bag is my standard everyday companion. It‘s super practical, minimalist and still has room for everything you need on short trips.

For longer trips with an overnight stay, I use the PRO Sport tank bag and the PRO Rearbag tail bag on my Kawa.

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JÜRGEN SWORA GESCHÄFTSFÜHRUNG

HI JÜRGEN, CAN YOU BRIEFLY TELL US WHEN AND WHY YOU FOUNDED THE COMPANY SW-MOTECH? The first products arose from our own need for motorcycle accessories for our travels. Products for our own use became the first sales products and finally the company SW-MOTECH in 1999.

WHICH PRODUCT DO YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE AND WHY DO YOU LIKE USING IT? Handguards, because they are practical and I also like the look.

Tail bags, because they are very flexible and don‘t pose any risk of injury if you fall off-road.

WHY DO YOU LIKE RIDING MOTORCYCLES? WHICH MOTORCYCLE IS YOUR CURRENT DREAM BIKE? Growing up in the village, I was dependent on a motorcycle to be mobile. I started riding when I was 16 (maybe it was 14, but officially 16), and I soon got into repairing and wrenching. I probably don‘t need to go into detail about what came out of it. I don‘t have one dream bike, but there is still one special one that I own again: a Kawasaki KE 125.

WHAT WILL YOU DO AFTER YOUR TIME AS MANAGING DIRECTOR AT SW-MOTECH, DO YOU HAVE ANY ANYTHING PLANNED YET? I have many projects already started and some new ones planned - some in the motorcycle sector, others outside. Some of my motorcycles need more time and maintenance, I‘ll probably be doing a lot of wrenching and I already have the next project in mind.

I‘m also planning a longer motorcycle trip. At the moment, however, the destination is uncertain, as world events have thrown a spanner in the works of my original plan.

WHICH ROUTE ON YOUR WAY TO WORK DO YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOY RIDING AND TO WHAT EXTENT DOES THIS RIDE HELP YOU TO SWITCH OFF AFTER WORK? I actually choose the shortest route to work. I simply prefer riding a motorcycle to driving a car.

If I really want to switch off, I consciously take the time and ride longer than just a stretched commute.

WHICH TRIPS BY MOTORCYCLE HAVE YOU UNDERTAKEN YOURSELF? Many. From ‚93 to 2008, Africa again and again.

Also the Mojave Desert, Australia, Alaska, and of course within Germany and Europe... I‘ve probably circumnavigated the globe three or four times. three or four times.

Travelstory

AMERICAN DREAM AND WILD LIFE FATHER AND SON TOUR THE USA Moto vlogger, social media creator, globetrotter: Sören Aulbach is living his motorcycle dream and has turned his hobby into a profession. Under the pseudonym „Blackout“, the likeable Hamburg native has made a name for himself on social networks with a wide range of bike content.

He shares a passion for motorcycle travel with his father. Their first tour together took them to Norway in the summer of 2022. Now it was time for their first overseas tour along the west coast of the USA.

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HELLO SÖREN, HOW DID IT COME ABOUT THAT THE USA ENDED UP AT THE TOP OF YOUR LIST OF TRAVEL DESTINATIONS THIS YEAR? Our original idea was Africa. However, finding dealers proved to be more difficult than expected.

Driven by the desire to travel to more distant climes and with my experience of America from my A-levels, I MOTORCYCLE AND wanted to show my father, from EQUIPMENT: FULL whom I had already learned so THROTTLE THROUGH much, a piece of the world – a THE USA bit of a role reversal. As a nature lover, it was important to me that he got to see impressive redwoods, the Californian sequoia trees, for example.

One of the places we had planned to visit was Yosemite National Park. The other was Nevada: hundreds of kilometers straight ahead – unimaginable for Europeans. Unfortunately, Death Valley was not accessible to us due to heavy flooding, but the almost extraterrestrial atmosphere here would certainly have been another highlight.

HOW DID YOU PREPARE FOR THIS EXCITING TRIP? The focus was clearly on spontaneity – with enough freedom to be able to take an unplanned day at the beach or turn off at a waterfall. The rough route was therefore planned on the spot at short notice. We relaxed over burgers and beers the evening before and booked our accommodation one or two hours in advance. This approach meant that we didn‘t have the pressure of having to cover a certain number of kilometers at the end of the day until we reached our booked accommodation. This allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in our adventure and enjoy our experiences more consciously.

WHICH BIKES WERE YOU ON THE ROAD WITH? Our partner MotoQuest had a limited choice of bikes, so we opted for the BMW F 750 GS. As meandering is permitted in most states in the USA, a more maneuverable bike might have made more sense in one place or another – for example in Los Angeles city traffic. But on the whole, it was an excellent fit. In general, motorcycles are an ingenious point of contact both locally and across borders. They always provide a topic of conversation and quickly bring you into contact with a wide variety of people. →

Travelstory

TELL US ABOUT THE CHALLENGES YOU FACED ALONG THE WAY AND HOW YOU OVERCAME THEM! After our flat tire on the first day, which was fortunately saved by a patch kit, planning fuel stops presented us with unexpected challenges: In Nevada, we had to cover 120 miles to the next gas station – we really hadn‘t expected that in the land of unlimited possibilities and the tank capacity of the motorcycles of our choice was borderline. I‘ve never felt as deep in the middle of nowhere as I did there: often there wasn‘t a single road sign in sight. We met people who were selfsufficient with solar panels and their own well.

SO A CANISTER OF EXTRA FUEL WOULD CERTAINLY HAVE BEEN A GOOD IDEA, WOULDN‘T IT? Yes, definitely.

IT‘S NO COINCIDENCE THAT OUR SWMOTECH FOUNDERS‘ FIRST OWN PRODUCT IN PROGRESS FOR THEIR TOUR IN LIBYA WAS A REAR TANK MADE FROM WASHING MACHINE SHEET METAL. Totally legitimate. I also have to say that I found it reassuring to be on the road in pairs – considering the sometimes enormous temperature differences of up to 45 degrees Fahrenheit within half an hour of driving and without large water reserves on board. These were challenges that came on top.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT EQUIPMENT WAS INDISPENSABLE FOR YOUR TRIP? For me, as so often, it was the practical tank bag with a USB cable outlet for charging batteries or cell phones plus additional storage space for a small water bottle and snacks.

WHAT WERE YOUR ULTIMATE HIGHLIGHTS? HAS THIS TRIP CHANGED YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON TRAVELING, MOTORCYCLING OR THE USA? I was surprised by the generally rather cautious, defensive driving style of Americans. This probably has to do with the insurance system and the culture of lawsuits there. We also often felt like miniature people in the middle of a huge landscape with an incredible amount of space on the roads.

Another thing we realized on this trip was that interpersonal relationships transform a normal place into a special one. It‘s about getting involved in the situations. Everyone gets their own favorite places – far away from social media. The location itself is of secondary importance. Even a less appealing hotel cannot detract from the fascination of the trip.

Every motorcycle traveler should THE MANY have ridden Highway One once DIFFERENT FACETS in their life. It starts just under ARE WHAT MAKE THE 400 kilometers north of San USA SO SPECIAL AS A Francisco, runs steadily northTRAVEL DESTINATION. south along the Pacific coast and ends in San Diego, around 100 kilometers south of Los Angeles.

The once-hyped Route 66 from Chicago to L.A. has now lost its image due to the unsightly highways. Basically, however, I would say that

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every place is impressive in its own right. It can be a small saloon, like Muscle Beach as part of Venice Beach. Or Portland in Oregon, a fascinating city, despite an absurd drug problem.

Or the famous Santa Monica Pier. Much of it may not be beautiful at first glance – but it‘s still worth seeing, and all the places together convey a comprehensive overall impression of this country.

ARE YOU ALREADY PLANNING YOUR NEXT MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE? Africa is still one of my favorites. The question and best buy for me is always: What is exotic enough, but not too dangerous? In addition, the possibilities on site are always decisive, also with regard to the availability of bikes. In all our striving for bigger and cooler things, we should not forget that there are many places worth seeing for motorcycle fans more or less on our doorstep, such as Poland, Albania or Croatia.

MANY THANKS FOR THE EXCITING INSIGHTS. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR NEXT TOUR AND WISH YOU LOTS OF FUN PLANNING IT!

y with bb o h e g hu g is a n i l c y take! an c Motorc u o paths ‘ y y an so m

BACKGROUND: SÖREN AULBACH › passionate motorcyclist for 14 years › used to be driven to school by his father on a Yamaha T1 › has always been impressed by acceleration and wind as unique characteristics of motorcycling › comes from Hamburg, conquers the city with supermotos › started his moto-vlog adventure on YouTube with a small group of northern Germans › has been working full-time as Blackout on social media since 2016, now also on instagram › closes every video with the catch phrase: „take care you landlubbers!“ › has tried his hand in many different directions and shared his experiences with his community: travel, offroad, enduro, motocross, race track, touring, stunts, motoball

community

FAIR

EICMA HIGHLIGHTS 2023 Year after year, EICMA attracts the entire motorcycle industry to Milan and inspires exhibitors and visitors alike with innovation, technology and trends. After the complicated pandemic years, the event will break numerous records at its 80th edition in November 2023: 560,000 560,000 VISITORS, visitors, 700 exhibitors, 2,036 700 EXHIBITORS, brands and halls booked out 2,036 BRANDS to the last seat – EICMA is booming like never before and attracts the crowds with many highlights.

For SW-MOTECH, too, EICMA is a mustattend event in the calendar and, as always, the trade fair appearance requires a great deal of effort and commitment from everyone involved. Thousands of interested visitors flock to the 210 square meter stand and we join forces to answer their questions – our Italian colleagues in particular are in constant action. However, the stand not only serves as a showcase for new products, but is also a vibrant meeting place for international business partners, journalists, influencers and acquaintances of the SW-MOTECH family.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: EICMA CONTENT ON ALL CHANNELS For many years, we have been using EICMA as a dynamic platform for creating high quality motorcycle content. The global interest in the trade fair offers us a unique opportunity to generate a wide range of content in different languages and thus specifically address the different target groups in countries such as France, Italy and Spain. We would like to delve deeper into this and share the special EICMA flair with you through our produced content.

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DAY 1: THE TRADE FAIR TOUR – FIRST IMPRESSIONS AND HIGHLIGHTS On the first day of EICMA 2023, we will inform the community about the latest developments for the 2024 season with a detailed tour of the trade fair. This format allows viewers to experience the trade fair firsthand and be awarded personal impressions and comments from the team. With the support of our longstanding media partner Valle on Tour, we involve viewers directly in the action and provide a comprehensive insight into the exciting world of motorcycle innovations.

DAY 2: FOCUS ON THE BMW R 1300 GS The real star of EICMA 2023 is undoubtedly the new BMW R 1300 GS – even if BMW itself is not on site. So it‘s all the better that we can present a model at our stand. As a longtime GS rider and participant in the bike‘s premiere in Spain, Valle on Tour is the perfect expert to offer the audience an authentic perspective on the vehicle and its performance with his personal experiences.

At the same time, we presented the matching SW-MOTECH accessories, which were specially developed for the R 1300 GS in the weeks leading up to the EICMA. The mere fact DEVELOPMENT that we had bikespecific carriers OF CUSTOMIZED and crash bars in our portfolio ACCESSORIES just a few weeks after the bike‘s release underlines SW-MOTECH‘s expertise in developing customized accessories that improve both functionality and the riding experience. →

community

DAY 3: SW-MOTECH INNOVATIONS IN THE SPOTLIGHT On the third day, we will focus on SW-MOTECH‘s new products for the 2024 season, giving viewers an exclusive insight into our latest and most innovative products: robust handguards, waterproof accessory bags, tank bags and backpacks. We provide all the information about our new products in five languages and then publish the videos on our respective YouTube channels. After the EICMA, further short videos will be created from these, which we can use to reach many people in different age groups on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

The implementation in five languages reinforces the global reach of the brand and at the same time strengthens the sense of togetherness of the local implementers. The entire show serves as a platform for SW-MOTECH‘s international team to exchange ideas and develop strategies together to communicate effectively with their global community. And there could be no better place for this than the packed halls of the EICMA in Milan.

Joint content creation across borders Creating these video formats at EICMA 2023 gives us the opportunity to connect with our community in an informative and entertaining way.

DISCOVER THE VIDEOS ABOUT EICMA AND NEW PRODUCTS ON YOUTUBE

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SOCIAL MEDIA

SHAPING TOGETHER: FOCUS ON YOUR VOICE

DEAR FANS & FRIENDS OF SW-MOTECH, We are proud to have such a dedicated and passionate fan base that supports us with valuable feedback on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. This feedback is key to shaping our content and offerings in the coming year.

YOUR ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IS STILL IN DEMAND Your opinion is invaluable to us. We cordially invite you to continue to take part in our surveys and give us your feedback. Because your wishes are our basis for continuous improvement of all content

FOCUS ON WHAT MAKES OF OUR PRODUCTS We have listened carefully to your wishes and suggestions and have decided to focus more on our products in the future. We will show you what makes our products so special and how they enrich your motorcycling experience. We will focus on innovative product features that will take your next tour to a new level.

Keep following us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date and be an active part of our SW-MOTECH community.

With many thanks and looking forward to the future together, Your SW-MOTECH Team

Partner Story

MOHO-MOTORRAD HOTELS

GET TO KNOW MOHO LIFE CAN BE A HELL OF A LOT OF FUN! when you ride with heart, helmet and home advantage and passion becomes adventure.

Because at MoHo-Motorrad Hotels, they simply know what makes bikers happy. And they have been doing so for 28 years. The specialists are passionate about motorcycles and the Eldorado of passes and bends is right on their doorstep. Here, it‘s straight from the door mat into the touring adventure and into the biker regulars‘ table in the evening. Yes, life really can be a lot of fun.

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An unbelievable variety of curves, lots of freedom and guided tours that you can still tell your grandchildren about: In the 32 MoHo regions from the Allgäu to the Waldviertel, from the Bavarian Forest to Lake Garda, all of this is actually part of the daily routine. On a biking vacation in the MoHo motorcycle hotels, feelings of freedom and dopamine race between Germany, Austria and Italy. Thanks to the expertise of the MoHo hosts and their insider PREPARATION IS tips, hapless touring experiments HALF THE in foreign climes are a thing of BATTLE the past. After all, preparation is half the battle on a motorcycle vacation. And so, at the side of these hand-picked hosts with heart, helmet & home advantage, the guided tour or personal tour tip becomes a regional delicacy, the taste of which you might never have discovered on your own. And let‘s be honest: the whole thing is twice as much fun together!

means that they are tested for heart, kidney and motorcycle expertise. And of course, the biking hosts live and love motorcycling and know their areas like the back of their hand.

Nevertheless, there are a few special features: because at the MoHo hosts, helmets rule instead of stars or toques - what else? In the 5-Helm motorcycle hotels, you can start your guided tour adventure right on your doorstep alongside the host(s); in the 4-Helm MoHos, tailor-made first-hand tour tips await you. As a biker, you are guaranteed (and certified) to be in good hands at these home bases... who will also lend a hand with the screws if necessary. The MoHo 3 helmets complement the offer in and outside the Alps as an uncomplicated home base when passing through. Or for a few comfortable bike discovery days on your own. →

THE ORIGINAL FOR 28 YEARS For more than a quarter of a century, the specialist group has been committed to the highest quality standards. The hand-picked MoHo gas(t)providers not only share a passion for bikes and score points with their concentrated expertise and experience, but have also committed themselves to the strict MoHo quality code. This in turn

Partner Story

THE HOST BIKES HERE What began over a quarter of a century ago with three motorized hosts now has a total of 51 hosts who are constantly expanding the MoHo area and are part of the lively MoHo community. On legendary guided tours, you discover the way to the well-hidden mountain roads, the most secret corners and the COME HOME, most beautiful spots in a region.

SIT TOGETHER + And after the dream tour, it‘s time ENJOY to come home, sit together and enjoy the biker get-together. Because as a MoHo host, you are not just the host and cook, but a like-minded person and bike guide in a class of your own.

(Photos: Moppetfoto.de)

GAMECHANGER: THE MY MOHO APP An important tool in the MoHo community‘s toolbox for a few years now is the My MoHo app, which can be a real game changer on a stressfree motorcycle vacation. After all, the free digital bike buddy was developed by bikers for bikers.

Discovering new areas and keeping track of everything while on the move is child‘s play. The extensive tour portal in Germany, Austria and Italy alone is a great companion on motorcycle tours.

At a click & a glance, with best price guarantee.

Loyalty and passion, recommendations and interactions pay off twice over: Simply register for free in the MoHo Riders Club and collect valuable loyalty points in no time at all - for example by scanning hotel receipts. All in the spirit of an active community that the MoHos cultivate and nurture.

And at the latest when you sit together with new and old friends at the biker regulars‘ table in the evening after the tour, you remember how much fun life can be.

ALL INFORMATION ABOUT #MOHOAPP AND THE OFFERS OF THE MOTORCYCLE SPECIALISTS CAN BE FOUND AT MOHO.INFO

DAS LEBEN KANN VERDAMMT VIEL SPASS MACHEN! Österreich | Italien | Deutschland

www.moho.info

Unsere Partner

EXPERT TIPS

PROFESSIONAL TIPS FROM IRENE SEIDLER

BIKE CARE FOR A CLEAN START TO THE SEASON Whether you‘re a passionate tech freak or a biker without any wrenching skills: every bike deserves a little care and maintenance, and not just during or after the winter break. Together with our expert, we took a close look at a colleague‘s motorcycle here in Rauschenberg after hibernation and saw how we could get it ready for spring. We learned a lot in the process.

TECHNICAL KNOW-HOW FROM AN EARLY AGE. Irene Seidler developed an affinity for technology at the age of 12, when she started tinkering with her father‘s old BMW. This was followed by training as a mechatronics engineer and obtaining a degree in mechanical engineering with a focus on motorcycle technology. Her passion then led her to the race track, where she was involved in various teams. Irene not only brings impressive technical expertise to the table, but also an enthusiasm for motorcycles and the joy of teaching in workshops and courses.

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EXPERT TIPS FROM IRENE: 1. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO HAVE THE RIGHT TIRE PRESSURE? Tire pressure plays a crucial role in your driving safety! Correct pressure is not only good for the longevity of the tires, but also has a significant influence on handling. So, don‘t forget to check it regularly!

SAFETY FIRST: THE TECHNICAL INSPECTION A thorough technical inspection of your motorcycle is the first step to guarantee that it is in top shape. It is best to start with an intensive check of the tires - from tire pressure and tread depth to braking performance. You can ensure the latter by making sure that the brake fluid is no more than two years old. An oil change is particularly advisable before a longer period of downtime such as the winter break. Forks and suspension must be checked for leaks and correct functioning. A thorough cleaning of the motorcycle is also recommended to prevent damage caused by dirt and salt. Pay particular attention to the fork and brake discs.

EXPERT VIEW ON CORRECT BATTERY CARE To protect the battery, it is advisable to remove it before long breaks and to charge it regularly, especially in sub-zero temperatures. Make sure you use a suitable charger. Winter maintenance of the battery can also be supported by regularly connecting it to a trickle charger. This ensures a continuous power supply.

2. CAN I CARRY OUT MINOR REPAIRS MYSELF? Absolutely! Many small repairs can be done by yourself with a little technical skill and DIY spirit.

However, if you encounter larger or more complex problems, it would be advisable to consult a specialist. Safety first!

3.HOW DO I PREPARE MYSELF MENTALLY FOR THE MOTORCYCLE SEASON? Start with short rides! A conscious approach will allow you to regain your feeling for your bike and the traffic in a playful way. Have a good ride!

THE WHOLE TALK YOU CAN FIND ON OUR YOUTUBE-CHANNEL

EXPERT TIPS

ERGONOMIC TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS

SITTING CORRECTLY ON A MOTORBIKE For many people, riding a motorcycle is not just a hobby, but a passion. However, as with any activity where you remain in one position for a long time, it can lead to physical discomfort. The correct riding position on a motorcycle is therefore crucial to prevent these inconveniences and optimize the riding experience.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CORRECT RIDING POSITION The seating position on a motorcycle varies depending on the bike model type: upright on a touring enduro, sporty on naked bikes and super sports bikes or casual on a cruiser. Regardless of the type of motorcycle, however, there are basic rules that every rider should follow in order to arrive safely and relaxed.

TIPS FROM A PHYSIOTHERAPIST Tobias Fischer, an experienced physiotherapist and passionate motorcyclist, emphasizes the importance of the correct posture when riding.

He offers valuable techniques and advice to optimize riding, manoeuvring and picking up the motorcycle:

FEET: The feet should be flat on the footrests with the toes pointing slightly inwards. This allows better control of the foot brake and gear lever.

KNEES: The knees should be close to the tank.

This not only provides support, but also allows the rider to steer the bike using their legs.

HIPS: The hips should be in a neutral position, neither too far forward nor too far back.

BACK: A straight back is crucial. A bent posture can lead to backache and fatigue.

ARMS: The arms should be relaxed and slightly bent, reducing pressure on the wrists.

HANDS: Hands should grip the handlebars firmly but not cramped.

ADJUST SETTINGS: Handlebars, seat and footrests should be adjusted to fit the rider‘s body size and shape.

TAKE REGULAR BREAKS: On longer rides, it is important to stop and stretch regularly to avoid tension.

PICKING UP THE BIKE CORRECTLY: If the bike falls or tips over, you should know how to pick it up again correctly and without causing an injury.

YOU CAN FIND VALUABLE TIPS AND TECHNIQUES FROM OUR EXPERT TOBIAS FISCHER ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

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ERGONOMIC SOLUTIONS FROM SW-MOTECH FOOTREST KITS: Individually adjustable footrests allow for the best fit of the feet, resulting in better control and less fatigue due to an ergonomic knee angle.

BAR BACKS AND RISERS: Adjusting the handlebar position allows the rider to adopt a more upright and comfortable posture, which is particularly beneficial on longer rides and offroad tours.

BRAKE AND GEAR LEVERS: SW-MOTECH‘s individually adjustable levers make shifting and braking easier.

SEAT CONVERSIONS: Change your seat height or make sure your crotch arch is shorter. A customized bench seat can significantly increase comfort and reduce pressure points and fatigue.

WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION AND NAVIGATION The distribution of weight on the motorcycle plays a decisive role in ergonomics. With SWMOTECH‘s luggage systems, weight can be distributed evenly, resulting in better balance and handling of the motorcycle. In addition, SWMOTECH‘s navigation solutions allow the cockpit to be customized so that all devices are optimally positioned and easy to read.

CONCLUSION The correct seating position on the motorcycle is crucial for a safe and enjoyable riding experience. By observing a few basic rules and using ergonomic products, you can minimize the risk of discomfort and maximize the enjoyment of riding. It is worth investing in your own health and safety and regularly keeping up to date with the latest findings and products in the field of motorcycle ergonomics.

INNOVATIONS

VIA – YOUR KRAFTRAD

The two-wheeler world is big „You‘re from SW-MOTECH, aren‘t you?“ We heard this question a few times at our stand at Eurobike, the world‘s largest bicycle trade fair, when we presented our first VIA cargo bike to the public. Because the logo of our new VIA brand also features the well-known bull from the SWMOTECH logo.

BUT FIRST THINGS FIRST: WHY IS SW-MOTECH NOW BUILD CARGO BIKES UNDER THE VIA BRAND NAME? It has absolutely nothing to do with motorcycle accessories. At first glance this may seem to be the case, but on closer inspection there are many overlaps and good reasons for this. We have more than twenty years of experience in the construction of high-quality metal products, plastic parts and bags for two-wheelers.

We want to transfer this HIGH-QUALITY METAL experience to other areas, and PRODUCTS, PLASTIC we see many similar applications PARTS AND BAGS and needs in motorcycles and bicycles. All two-wheeler riders want to attach their luggage quickly and easily to the vehicle and get it safely and dryly to their destination.

In addition, every rider wants technically sophisticated accessories for their daily ride, whether for leisure or everyday use.

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A safe ride thanks to the robust frame construction

Originally, we had only thought about building suitable bags for bicycles, but then our technical ambition got the better of us and we ventured one step further in the direction of vehicle construction. More than two years ago, we decided to enter the rapidly growing cargo bike market and began developing our first model, the VIA 1, which we presented to the public for the first time at the Open House in summer 2023.

SOON TO BE AWARDED IN STORES From spring 2024, the VIA 1 will be available in stores and directly from us. The path to the first vehicle built in Rauschenberg was a great challenge for us and we learned a lot along the way. Fortunately, we were able to draw on the knowledge of our colleagues and partners: Our colleagues at SW-MOTECH Czech Republic weld the solid aluminum bicycle frames. The frames for the cargo bikes will be produced on the welding robots that also manufacture our popular TRAX aluminum cases and engine guards. Our saddlery, which converts a number of bench

seats every year, worked with us to develop the rain cover and child seat cushion for the cargo bike. Our colleagues at the PROBLEM SOLVER CNC milling machine produced FOR EVERYDAY many components according TRANSPORTATION to the requirements of our development team.

We have ridden hundreds of kilometers with the first prototypes of the VIA 1, had it tested for heavy loads at the testing institute and can now present you with a robust cargo bike that can solve several problems in everyday life, especially for people in congested areas: You can ride past traffic jams, park right in front of the supermarket or kindergarten, get your daily dose of physical exercise and maybe even save yourself a second car in the family.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE VIA CARGO BIKE, CLICK ON VIA-CARGOBIKE.COM OR FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK OR INSTAGRAM.

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IMPRINT SW‑MOTECH Gmbh & Co. KG · Ernteweg 7 – 10, 35282 Rauschenberg · www.sw-motech.com Amtsgericht Marburg, HRA 4187 · USt.ID: DE247 284 853 Personally liable: BAGS-Connection verwaltungs GmbH · Fichtenweg 19, 35066 Frankenberg Amtsgericht Marburg, HRB 5067 Represented by: Jörg Diehl, Kai Jockel, Jürgen Swora, Achim Kessler Photography: Nina Bechtel, Daniel Keller, Erik Peters, Irene Seidler, Moppetfoto.de, Sören Aulbach Texts: Sebastian Lorenz, Elena Wagner, Erik Peters, Alexander Trofimow, Maxie-Renée Korotin Print: Vogel Druck und Medienservice GmbH · Leibnizstraße 5 · 97204 Höchberg · www.vogel-druck.de Errors and omissions excepted. Technical and design modifications are subject to change.

SW‑MOTECH GmbH & Co. KG is not liable for content correctness of printed ads.

SW-MOTECH GmbH & Co. KG Ernteweg 7-10 | 35282 Rauschenberg, Germany +49 (0) 6425 8168-050 | info@sw-motech.com

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