SIP Scootershop

SIP Scootershop - 30th anniversary Open Day

Ralf Jodl first started the business that became his Landsberg, Bavaria based SIP Scootershop enterprise from a garage. A familiar story in the motorcycle industry - one in which a deep-seated passion resulted in enthusiasts becoming entrepreneurs and the garage business eventually turning into a 6,000 sq m emporium of custom-built scooter excellence.

The first inventory was stored between business partner Alexander Barth's father's beehives! "In the absence of employees, we took the parcels to the post office ourselves - on a Vespa of course," says Ralf.

On Saturday 18th May, 2024 "we celebrate our Open Day 'Festival of 30 Years Performance & Style' with a programme that includes on-site pizza bakery, food and drink from our in-house Italian SIPERIA café bar, a performance parts, components, accessories and used scooter market and an official trial sport run of the Vespa Club of Germany".

There'll be the opportunity for enthusiasts (and professionals) to have their scooter's performance calibrated on a P4 Amerschläger dyno (for a voluntary donation of € 10) to see who can take home the bragging rights of a new record.

Plus, a visitor Photowall, guided tours through its architect designed HQ, stands from the Vespa Cowboys, Vespa Club Munich, Vespa Club of Germany and vendor displays from the likes of Bitubo, Dunlop, EGIG, Scootering Magazine, RON Scooters (AT) and more.

With Live DJ sound all day, Saturday evening will see a big 'Soulniter' in the medieval walled splendour of Landsberg-am-Lech in the beautiful cellar vault of the Moritz Club - "an overnight stay would be advisable," says Ralf!

www.sip-scootershop.com

Galfer

Galfer announces "generational" management change

A year after celebrating the company’s 70th anniversary, Galfer has announced a change in its general management with Umberto Milesi, who took the position in 2008, leaving behind a legacy filled with successes. 

On a business level, Galfer has achieved record figures in the last three years, while on a sporting level, Galfer has won more than 100 world titles across the various competitions in which the brand supplies teams with braking products. 

"Umberto Milesi has had a decisive role in the development of the company, its products and its image around the world, and will continue as a member of the Galfer Board of Directors.

"In mid-2023 he was succeeded as CEO of Galfer by Francisco Catena Martínez. Francisco developed his skills in business analysis, trade marketing and sales management roles in multinationals in the infrastructure, perfume and cosmetics and FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer goods) sectors. 

Catena states: "I face this challenge with enormous enthusiasm, energy and a sense of great responsibility. Galfer’s future is full of opportunities and turning them into reality is the job for us all. 

"The companies that identify their strengths and reinforce them in their search for excellence are the companies that lead the market. A passion for two wheels, innovation, technology, performance and unique designs has allowed Galfer to achieve very high levels of success. 

"We must continue to build on our history without setting ourselves limits or barriers. For this we need the engagement of all our employees, partners, clients, distributors and collaborators: we must share our objectives and look to the future with the same enthusiasm and determination. The future is ours if we know how to differentiate ourselves and connect with our consumers.”

www.galfermoto.com

Athena

New Racing Kits compatible with the main two and four-stroke off-road injection applications

Alonte (VI) based GET, a brand owned by Athena and one of the leading producers of ECUs for on and off-road motorcycles, has introduced new SX1 PRO 2T and SX1 PRO 4T electronic control units for off-road bikes.

These advanced devices are compatible with electronic injection Motocross and Enduro models from the main Austrian and Japanese manufacturers, with compatibility starting from 2024 model year for 4-stroke and 2023 for 2-stroke. 

Each SX1 PRO ECU will be part of a kit that also contains the SX1 Connect WiFi module, which allows mapping parameters to be set from smartphones. The kit will also include the SX1 Controller, an innovative handlebar control that allows riders to activate and manage a series of advanced functions, such as map selection, electronic shifting, traction control and launch control. The device is also equipped with LEDs that allow all this information to be easily viewable, ensuring intuitive and immediate control of the motorbike's performance.

SX1 PRO Electronic Control Units

The SX1 PRO control units are the result of GET's "deep commitment to OEM supplies for some of the most prestigious manufacturers on the market. Each electronic component, the production phases and the rigorous quality controls have consequently been raised to the highest standards. 

"The introduction of the SX1 platform marks a significant step in GET's aftermarket product offering through the adoption of a CAN-bus-based UDS (Unified Diagnostics Services) communication protocol and the implementation of a stringent Automotive validation plan. This approach brings the benefits of real, definite improvements in reliability, speed and efficiency".

Two racing maps are pre-loaded in the internal memory of each control unit. They can be selected using the multifunction SX1 Controller that is included in the kit. These maps have been carefully developed and optimised for each specific application, to maximise performance in all weather conditions and on all types of terrain. 

The availability of the mappings that can be set is practically unlimited, thanks to the possibility of creating customised profiles with the WiGET app and uploading them to the ECU using the SX1 Connect module, also included in the kit.

SX1 PRO ECUs feature a new evolution of GET's patented traction control technology, called GPA, which can be adjusted to ten different levels, depending on the rider's needs.

Each SX1 PRO, both in the 2 and 4-stroke versions, is designed for 'plug and play' installation, easily replacing the original unit of the motorcycle.

These control units have been designed to meet the needs of riders of all levels, from professionals to enthusiasts. They are also the ideal choice for racing engine tuners, because they make it possible to customise and adapt each parameter through the professional Maya software, available separately.

All SX1 PRO control units are produced completely in the GET laboratories in Italy, from the research and development processes through to the assembly stage.

Multifunction Control - SX1 Controller

SX1 Controller "opens a new chapter in the interaction between rider and motorcycle in off-road scenarios. This innovative handlebar control intuitively and immediately unifies all the functions necessary for a revolutionary riding experience".

The seven integrated LEDs provide complete visual control over the set mapping level, GPA traction control and electronic gearshift activation. By using the GET Quickshifter sensor, available as an accessory, it's possible to integrate this functionality even on applications that originally do not support it.

The SX1 Controller reports critical alarms such as engine overheating and activate Launch Control strategy. Features and display modes can be customised via WiFi using the SX1 Connect module, included in every SX1 PRO kit. 

WIFI Module - SX1 Connect

SX1 Connect is the "lightest, fastest and most compact Wifi module that GET has ever produced". It connects via smartphone or tablet through the free WiGET app and allows drivers to make adjustments to the main engine parameters, such as carburetion and advance, even on specific points on the map. 

SX1 Connect also offers the "Monitor" function to display operating and diagnostic data in real time and provide information about the hours of use of the control unit. It's also possible to calibrate the 0-TPS value, configure the functions of the LC-GPA accessory and restore factory parameters, if necessary.

Future updates to the app will make it possible to further customise the functions and information that can be displayed: for example, it will be possible to adjust the brightness intensity and select the colours of the SX1 Controller's LEDs for an even more personalised driving experience.

"All GET products are the result of the experience acquired in the most prestigious international championships, such as MXGP and AMA. The SX1 line has also been developed in collaboration with Team Honda HRC USA, coming off a memorable season with the support of GET, both for the 250 and 450 classes".

www.athena.eu

Italian motorcycle registrations

Italy Q1 motorcycle registrations +2.93%

The latest available data from the Italian motorcycle industry association (ANCMA) show new motorcycle registrations for the first quarter of 2024 up by +2.93% at 40,067 units YTD, having been +17.61% in February (13,254 units) but -1.20% in January (9,370 units) and -4.02% in March (17,443 units).

That meant the Italian market recorded another post 2023 Q1 record. Total PTW registrations were +3.29% YTD at 81,396 units - also a post 2023 Q1 record.

The top-selling motorcycle YTD was the Benelli TRK 702/X (1,892 units sold in Q1). This was followed by the BMW 1300 GS with 1,571 units sold. Unusually, this placed the leading two bikes in 6th and 7th spot respectively in terms of all PTW sales, including scooters. Indeed, the Honda Africa Twin was in 9th spot with 1,462 units sold YTD.

Honda's SH 125, 150 and 350 were the top-sellers, followed by the Honda X-ADV 750 and the KYMCO Agility 125 R16 in fourth and fifth spots. The Yamaha Tracer 9 (915 units sold YTD) was the only other motorcycle in the list of the Top 20 best sellers YTD in Italy. Maxi and ADV style scooters started the year as strong sellers again (Honda's ADV 350 and the Yamaha XMAX 300 and TMAX).

For the record - 2023 motorcycle sales were 145,405 units in 2023 (+14.88%), with all months in positive territory - the best Italian market numbers since before the 2007/2008 financial crisis and the resulting great recession. May was the strongest month in Italy last year with 18,119 motorcycles flying out of showrooms - some +11.39% up over May 2022. Nearly 57% of Italy's annual 145,405 motorcycle registrations in 2023 were registered in the five months between March and July (83,804 units). In total PTW terms, the Italian market was +17.94% in 2023 with a massive 318,948 units registered, by far the largest annual market performance in Italy since before the 2007/2008 financial crisis. Scooters were up by +20.64% at 173,543 units. The top selling motorcycle was the Benelli TRK 502/X (4,075 units), followed by the Honda Africa Twin (3,880) in a market where Maxi Scooters and ADV/Enduro style machines continue to gain share. Italy's PTW units number means that, on its own, it is not far off being 60% the size of the total United States combined Scooter, On-Highway, ADV ('Dual Sport') and Off-Highway motorcycle/PTW market (551,342 units sold in USA in FY2023/+2.6%).

Omnia Racing

Omnia Racing - 2024 brand additions 

Naples based international distributor Omnia Racing has added four new brands to its range for 2024 - Tappezzeria Italia, SP Electronics, Isotta and CNC Racing.

Described as bringing "a touch of comfort and style", Tappezzeria Italia seats are "custom designed to enhance the riding experience. Designed and manufactured in Italy, its handcrafted seats are made from the finest materials, ensuring durability and style. 

"With a focus on ergonomics, the construction of Tappezzeria Italia's products offers an unparallelled level of comfort for riders on long journeys".

"Revolutionising riding with its advanced technology", the range of high-performance electronic components from SP Electronics ranges from quick shifters to advanced traction control systems. "Its products are designed to improve the performance, safety and the enjoyment of riding. SP Electronics' dedication to innovation makes them a perfect fit for Omnia Racing's catalogue".

Also seen here, Isotta windshields and accessories "stand out for their design and craftsmanship. Each product is a blend of protection, functionality and aesthetics, crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and design. 

"Isotta's accessories not only enhance the rider's comfort, but also add a touch of elegance to the motorcycle, making them a favourite among discerning riders".

The CNC Racing range of precision-engineered performance components "push the boundaries of performance and design. From levers and mirrors to engine covers and more, CNC Racing crafts its products using the latest manufacturing technologies and highest quality materials. 

"CNC Racing's commitment to excellence and innovation makes its addition to the Omnia Racing catalogue especially exciting for riders looking to customise their motorcycles with high- strength, lightweight advanced design parts and accessories that have been optimised for performance".

www.omniaracing.net

Yamaha

Yamaha - record-breaking 2023

In announcing Full Year 2023 financial results (the year to December 31, 2023), Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. CEO Yoshihiro Hidaka is quoted as saying that "in fiscal 2023, we set new records for consolidated net sales and operating income. As demand for outdoor recreation slowed, primarily in developed markets, it remained strong for our core products of motorcycles and large outboard motors.

"Our efforts to counter rising costs by passing on prices and the weak yen contributed to us posting higher sales and profits." For 2024, Yamaha expects to set further new records and to see "improved supply of premium motorcycle and scooter models in emerging markets. We expect to clear the financial indicators of our three-year Medium-Term Management Plan (2022-2024).

"As we up the pace and tackle transformational challenges toward realising our long-term vision of "ART for Human Possibilities: Let's strive for greater happiness", we will endeavour to deliver Kando [a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value] and answer the expectations of all our stakeholders."

Net sales were 2,414.8bn yen (an increase of 166.3bn yen or 7.4% compared with the previous fiscal year) and operating income was 250.7bn yen (an increase of 25.8bn yen or 11.5%). Ordinary income was 242.0bn yen (an increase of 2.7bn yen or 1.1%) and net income attributable to owners of parent was 164.1bn yen (a decrease of 10.3bn yen or 5.9%). "These figures once again reset the company's record for net sales and operating income.

"Net sales rose thanks not only to healthy demand for motorcycles, but also increased supply volumes resulting from supply chain operations returning to normal and improvements with logistics, production issues and other areas. Operating income increased due in part to higher unit sales, but also from the greater effects of passing on prices to offset the soaring costs of raw materials and more, and the benefits of a depreciated yen.

"For the motorcycle business, demand in Europe and North America was robust and also grew in many emerging markets, primarily in Asia, with the exception of Vietnam and China, which are suffering from prolonged sluggish economies. Higher unit sales in Europe, North America and in emerging markets - namely Indonesia, India and Brazil - resulted in higher net sales for the business. For operating income, the company brought in higher profits mostly thanks to these higher unit sales, but the benefits of passing on costs and a weaker yen also contributed".

With recreational vehicles (all-terrain vehicles, ROVs and snowmobiles), the boom in outdoor recreation has passed and as demand has slowed, so have unit shipments. On the other hand, the company's U.S. factory was also facing issues last year, but production efficiency improvements, together with the added gains from a weaker yen, gave the business higher sales.

Airoh

Airoh 'Matryx' on-road full-face

First seen in IDN before EICMA last year, Airoh's new 'Matryx' on-road full-face continues to evolve, with new graphics seen here and some additional information about the long list of features that the Locatelli engineers have built-in to this aggressively styled ECE 2206 onroader.

Also suitable for track use thanks to the DD ring retention system, the outer shell comes in two sizes and is made of full carbon 6K or composite carbon. 

It features the ASN system (AIROH Sliding Net), which improves airflow and reduces forces transmitted to the head in the case of impact, and its AEFR system (AIROH Emergency Fast Release), allowing the cheek pads' quick removal in case of emergency situations. 

Tested inside the AIROH wind tunnel to ensure optimal acoustics and temperature regulation, it boasts an innovative and functional ventilation system, with adjustable air intakes on the chin guard and on upper part of the helmet - complemented by rear spoiler with integrated extractors. 

The helmet is suitable in any season thanks to features such as the removable double length Stop Wind. Inside the shell, the hypoallergenic, removable and washable COOLMAX and 2DRY Microsense sanitised treated inner linings are made from high-quality fabrics. 

The visor fitment design allows for an extra wide vision to be used. It is UV-resistant and equipped with ATVR technology for easy removal. It is prepared for Pinlock 120XLT lenses (included inside the box) and features the A3S (AIROH Automatic AntiFog System) to optimise visibility and safety. 

The helmet also comes with a convenient, integrated sun visor, and it is communication system ready - meaning it is ready for the insertion of Bluetooth communication systems with a dedicated space for the intercom battery inside the helmet.

The 'Matryx' weighs in from 1,420 g ±50 g (for the full carbon 6K) and from 1,500 g ±50 g for the composite carbon version.

LOCATELLI S.P.A. 

www.airoh.com