It's hard to say whether it is rumor or hard news, but the smart money is on Harley releasing two new mid-cycle 2020 models - a CVO Road Glide and a Softail Standard. It is also thought likely that, with the 60-degree 'Revolution Max' engine 1,100 cc Pan American ADV and 975 cc Bronx Streetfighter taking center stage for the MY2021 announcement, the 'core' range will most probably be dominated by accessory upgrades and paint jobs.
PSB report that Black Book used vehicle pricing has started to fall more sharply this winter than has been the case in recent years. The biggest movers are metric cruisers, down -4.6%, with domestic V-twins down by -3.5%. The only segment to see an increase in pricing in November was snowmobiles, +1% over October values.
Harley has issued a recall in the USA of certain 2019-2020 FLHTCUTG and FLRT Trike models on the basis of possible unintended rear brake activation. The potential number of units affected is up to 12,624.
The BMW sponsored Concorso d`Eleganza Villa d´Este (on the shore of Lake Como - Cernobbio, Northern Italy) will be staged from 22 to 24 May 2020. Registration is now open, and this signals the start of the selection procedure when decisions are taken on which vehicles will be on show.
Honda R&D Co., Ltd., a research and development subsidiary of Honda, has announced that it has acquired all of the outstanding shares of the California-based Drivemode, Inc. in order to further strengthen "new value creation" in the areas of digital and connected mobility products. Drivemode is a start-up that develops and operates smartphone-based connected services. Honda R&D and Drivemode have been collaborating and conducting joint development activities since 2015 through the Honda Xcelerator program, an open innovation program Honda has been pursuing on a global basis.
Dainese has announced the grand opening of its latest flagship retail location in Las Vegas. Featuring an "innovative retail concept that creates a journey through moto history with memorabilia, including one of Valentino Rossi's suits, all surrounded by the world's most advanced protective apparel. Designed by Renato Montagner, the retail environment immerses visitors in the rich heritage of the Dainese and AGV brands while profiling all riding styles including racing, touring, street and urban".
Ford is to transfer most of its operations in India to Mahindra & Mahindra as part of a joint venture with the Indian carmaker, BSA and JAWA brand owner, and 51% owner of Peugeot scooters. Mahindra will own 51% of the joint venture, valued at $275m. Both firms will continue to own their own brands and sell them through their own separate dealer networks.
