Spanish PTW motorcycle registration

Spain: Total PTW Registrations -43.66% for March 2020

Always the quickest to compile its data, the latest new Powered Two-Wheeler (PTW) registration numbers from ANESDOR, the motorcycle industry trade association in Spain, the first released for March, gives us an insight into how the coronavirus pandemic has already started to affect the major markets in Europe, and they do not make pretty reading.

Jose Maria Riano, General Secretary of ANESDOR

For context, Spanish PTW motorcycle registrations were +12.17% in 2019, with 194,663 units registered, the best market performance in Spain since before 2008.
The year was off to a good start, with January +13.45% and February +21.43%, and over 14,000 new PTWs sold in each of the first two months of 2020. Then it hit the fan. There were 16,201 registrations recorded in March 2019, but for March 2020 registrations were down by
-43.66% at 9,128 units.
For the year to date, the first quarter of 2020, the market in Spain is -6.88% cumulatively in PTW terms (38,047 units), having been +18.69% (40,858 units) for Q1 of 2019.
Statistically, the figures are even worse in Spain when looking at motorcycles alone. The market there was -46.64% (7,997 units) in March, having been +19.28%/12,825 units in February and +11.96%/12,373 units in January.

For the first quarter as a whole, the motorcycle market in Spain is -9.79% (33,188 units), having been +18.13% (36,789 units) for Q1 2019.
Jose Maria Riano, General Secretary of ANESDOR, says that March was going quite well in Spain until around March 14, which was when the Spanish Prime Minister effectively declared a state of emergency - the market became paralyzed straight away.
In percentage terms, ANESDOR says that it should be noted that until March 13 growth was running at +37.8% and then fell by -89% in the second half of March.
Riano said: "With every day that passes with the market closed, any recovery becomes more difficult for the companies in the sector. In this emergency we are going through, it is necessary to take the appropriate measures to minimize both the social and the economic impact. It is necessary to think about a crash plan to recover the automotive and motorcycle sectors if we want to preserve jobs.
"ANESDOR is keeping the communication channels open with the Government of Spain and, through ACEM in Brussels, with the European Commission with the objective of seeking coordinated solutions in this situation of health crisis - social and economic."

Zodiac

Zodiac Additions

Metzeler ME 888 Marathon Orange Wall Tires

 
Metzeler offers selected sizes of their popular ME 888 series tires with an orange wall for a distinctive Harley-esque look. The Metzeler ME 888 is a tread pattern that is well known for its excellent handling characteristics, high mileage and durability - hence the name!

Tommy & Sons - 1998-2013 Batwing Style Fairings

 
These inner and outer Batwing style fairings are made from fiberglass in precision build molds by Tommy & Sons in Lithuania. Available as stock replacement inner and outer fairings, as well as a special detachable version that fits straight onto all Road King models (except FLHRS), this version installs with the brackets from the OEM Road King windscreen. For FLHT models, Zodiac has heavy-duty upper and lower fairing bracket kits available. Tommy & Sons fairings come in a white gel coat finish, ready for paint preparation.

V-Twin Sissy Bars for Rigid Frames

 
These classic style sissy bars come in solid steel specifically designed to fit most hardtail frames. They are available in chrome 14 mm steel, 26" (66 cm) high; chrome 16 mm steel, 28" (71 cm) high; chrome 16 mm steel, 31" (79 cm) high; 33" (84 cm) high Captain America style sissy bar and 49" (124 cm) high Captain America style sissy bar.

UCLEAR Motion Infinity Helmet Communicator

 
This 5.0 Bluetooth headset is a perfect group intercom that connects an unlimited number of riders up to a 1,200 m range. All other functions such as telephone, music or navigation are also supported. The headset can be connected to different Bluetooth devices from any manufacturer. The Motion Infinity can connect with an unlimited number of riders and has an U-Safe Crash sensor that alerts up to three contacts via SMS with GPS location in the event of strong helmet impacts. All Motion headsets come with three brackets and are suitable for all motorcycle helmets, available as single or dual headsets.

Arlen Ness Method Risers

 
CNC-machined from billet aluminum with a forged aluminum top clamp, for excellent strength and rigidity of the handlebar, the clean yet aggressive styling features machined windows and sculptured pockets for a classic contemporary Ness look. They have a 1" clamping area and each riser kit comes with additional billet spacers and hardware to give the option to accept factory 4 1/4" (108 mm) gauge mounts. Fits all triple trees with 3 1/2" (89 mm) center-to-center riser mount. Offered in 64, 152 and 254 mm heights, in choice of black or chrome.

Replica 3.5 Gallon 1947-1965 OHV Big Twin Hand Shift Gas Tank

 
This V-Twin Manufacturing reproduction of the long unavailable hand shift style 3.5 gallon (13.2 liter) tank set has an original rod type shut-off valve, two vented cam style gas caps, crossover gas line and 1947-1965 FL shifter guide.

Yost Pro Power Tube and Intake Manifold Wrench

 
The Yost Pro Power Tube (for Keihin CV carburetors) is designed to produce a very fine mist, allowing the fuel to stay in suspension longer for better control of air and fuel mixtures that can be almost perfectly matched for any throttle position. Expect an increase of up to 5 hp, improved mid-range performance, "and an incredible throttle response." The handy intake manifold wrench makes life easier when removing the intake manifold on Evolution engines. Cuts an hour-long job in half - no more need to remove the complete gas tank, this angled wrench with ball-end allows you to remove the carburetor manifold directly from 1986-2006 Sportster and 1984-1999 Big Twin models.

Highway Bars with Footrest Rubbers

 
These heavy gauge highway bars are 1 1/4" (32 mm) in diameter and feature mandrel bends, a show chrome or black finish and footrest rubbers. Available in chrome for 1985-2003 Sportsters; chrome or black for 2004 to present Sportsters; 2000-2017 FLST Softails; 1997-2008 and 2009 to present Touring, and 2006-2017 Dyna.


ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV
www.zodiac.nl

Tucker V-Twin

Energy Suspension Bushings, Motor Mount and Cush Drive Inserts

San Clemente, California based Energy Suspension has been a leader in performance polyurethane suspension technology for over 30 years, and Tucker V-Twin is now offering Energy Suspension products for select Harley-Davidson models, including replacement handlebar bushings, motor mounts and cush drive inserts.
"Dedication to manufacturing and the development of superior products has established Energy Suspension as the most asked-for name in performance polyurethane components. Having been awarded ten U.S. patents, its innovative designs have set industry standards as polyurethane continues to amaze the people who work with it.
"The complex and diverse nature of Energy Suspension’s proprietary Hyper-Flex material requires constant attention to developing optimum polyurethane formulas. The result is quality components that customers continue to demand. Providing problem-solving solutions with applications for the most popular vehicles, paired with a limited warranty and superb customer support, Energy Suspension is the quality choice in performance polyurethane suspension components."

Replacement Firm Handlebar Bushings

 
Manufactured with proprietary Hyper-Flex polyurethane, these replacements are said to outperform and outlast the OEM rubber items, with superior oil and chemical resistance. The kits include four damper bushings (ID 0.68", OD 1.15"), two metal sleeves (ID 0.5", length 1.45") and four metal washers. They are available in chrome for FXST, FLST, FXD, FXR, XL ‘87-'20 and chrome or zinc for '84-'13 FLH/FLT.

Replacement Motor Mount

 
The OE replacement Energy Suspension H-D FL/FX motor mount is a "revolutionary free-floating, channeled bushing design that stands apart from any competitor and minimizes the amount of vibration that reaches the frame and rider while maximizing performance and longevity; available for '80-'08 FLH, FLT, FXR.

Replacement Cush Drive Inserts

 
Replacement for old, worn rubber cush drive inserts in Energy Suspension's proprietary and more durable Hyper-Flex polyurethane with improved oil and chemical resistance and a smoother ride on '09-'20 FLF+H/FLT.

TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
www.energysuspension.com

Indian Motorcycle

 Indian Motorcycle - Time Limited 'Click.Deliver.Ride' Program

Indian Motorcycle has introduced its 'Click.Deliver.Ride' program, providing riders with the option of purchasing a motorcycle from the comfort of their own home. 

The company says that riders have long had the ability to search for their desired model and customize it to their preference, but they can now work with their local dealer, either online or via phone, to complete their purchase and have their dream bike delivered right to their doorstep.
In the same way that 'Click.Deliver.Ride' is providing Indian Motorcycle's customers with convenience, it is adding value to its network of dealers as well. Dealers play a crucial role in their local communities and economies, which is why Indian Motorcycle has dedicated itself to help them navigate through this unprecedented business situation, with 'Click.Deliver.Ride' at the forefront.
"Over the last month, we've all had to adjust to a new way of life and have had to alter the ways in which we conduct our business," said Mike Dougherty, Indian Motorcycle President. "Our hope is that 'Click.Deliver.Ride' will help bring peace of mind to both our loyal customers and our network of dealers."
'Click.Deliver.Ride' is available for a limited time only at participating dealers based on applicable laws and is subject to change.

Tucker Powersports

Tucker Names Former Harley Executive Motorcycle Marc McAllister as President

On March 24, Fort Worth, Texas based Tucker Powersports announced that Sebastian Bretschneider was to leave the company for which he had been announced as President in July 2019, just eight weeks after he'd hosted customers and vendors at their annual Dealer Expo in January.

His replacement, the fifth executive to occupy this hottest of industry hot seats in the five years since Lacy Diversified folded Tucker into the Motorsport Aftermarket Group in 2014, is former Harley-Davidson executive Marc McAllister.
McAllister held a variety of roles at Harley-Davidson during his 24-year tenure with the company. After starting in product design and supply chain, he moved to senior roles leading the company's sales and growth in Europe and Asia. As Vice President and Managing Director of Global Markets and previously the Asia-Pacific region, McAllister led sales, marketing and operations of the Motor Company while working closely with powersports dealers in each region.
He also represented the company with board positions at the American Motorcyclist Association and the European Motorcycle Manufacturers Association. His appointment has been broadly welcomed by Tucker vendors who are glad to see management of the business back in the hands of someone with motorcycle industry experience and sales and marketing credentials.
"Marc has tremendous experience in powersports and in driving business growth. That's what we need at Tucker right now," said Greg Ethridge, Chairman of the company's ownership group, and formerly Chairman of the MAG board.
"I'm excited to dive in and work with the Tucker team," said McAllister. "My experience building a strategy and structure that delivers growth is important for Tucker right now. And it needs to be done while supporting our customers and partners in this difficult time. This is a tremendous opportunity for me to help strengthen the Tucker brand and the motorcycle industry."
www.tucker.com

Harley-Davidson

Tone Deaf H-D Announces New Performance Bagger and "Custom Inspired" P&A Programs at Height of Corona Emergency

"It’s the details that make you unique," says Harley of its new Performance Bagger and 'Endgame' P&A program - introduced on March 19, the day after it announced it was closing production down and had an activist investor openly questioning the direction of the company.

No. What makes H-D unique is just how inured it is to the reality of what's going on around them! Now and for the past 15 years. From "Soho down to Brighton", this is one "deaf, dumb and blind boy" whose intuition, smarts and savvy waved goodbye to reality with the wait lists of yore.
For what it's worth, "from fender to fender, these are the elements that will make your bike an expression of your individual style. When making a personal statement, let your bike do the talking." Harley discovers definition of the word "custom," shock! There are three new P&A programs on offer.
"The 'Endgame' collection is defined by its slotted design and high-tech, industrial look. The intense black rubber inserts on the controls are set against a matte graphite or black finish that complements black or bright bikes."

The collection includes hand grips, rider and passenger footpegs, brake pedal pads, rear brake lever, shifter peg, shifter lever, footboards and a shed load of black (or graphite).
Whereas the 'Endgame' collection is designed to deliver an industrial derived styling, the 'Streamliner' collection is "inspired by the curved forms and long, horizontal lines of streamline modern architecture. The black Streamliner collection takes a contemporary spin on this classic Harley-Davidson style. Featuring polished chrome bands surrounded by a sea of rich black, the black Streamliner collection adds a dark and aerodynamic look to your bike." Available in black.
This collection also includes lots of black plus hand grips (heated or otherwise), rider footpegs, brake pedal pad, rider footboards, passenger footboards and mount kit and a left and right passenger footboard insert kit.
Finally, in order to "command attention without saying a word" and "push aggressive style to the limit," Harley's 'Board-to-Peg' conversion kit features "leading-edge controls, custom wheels and board-to-peg conversion kits" for Touring and FL Softail platforms that "deliver the unmistakable attitude and performance you need to stand out from the crowd."
"These support kits are designed to allow installation of mini footboards and footpegs - the kit includes left and right mounting brackets and all necessary installation hardware." Mini footboards and footpegs are sold separately.
The other new parts to set the pulse racing are the Fugitive wheel, 80GRIT rider footboards, brake pedal pad, foot controls, footpegs and HDMC engine trim selection ("contemporary style machined to perfection") consisting of a timer cover and derby cover for selected late models.
Whoopee doo!

Roland Sands Design

RSD in Comoto Strategic Partnership

Previously available through Tucker Powersports, Roland Sands Design has reached a "strategic partnership with America's largest omni-channel platform in the powersports industry - Comoto - and will align efforts for 3PL functions and US wholesale distribution."
Under this partnership, Comoto will be the exclusive US distributor for RSD Apparel through their entity Upshift Distribution, while also offering third party logistical services for the brand for direct to consumer fulfilment.

"Aligning with the Comoto group ensures best in class sales operations for our dealers and efficient fulfilment to the end consumer," says Rob Ramlose, Director of Product, RSD. "RevZilla and J&P Cycles are powerhouse eCommerce retailers and have always been huge supporters of our apparel business, and with UpShift managing our dealer network, we feel this partnership is a great opportunity for all involved."
Stevan Popovich, VP, Merchandising and Business Development at Comoto, said: "This strategy will allow for Comoto to maximize business potential through multiple channels including our eCommerce platforms RevZilla and J&P Cycles, our retail chain Cycle Gear and UpShift Distribution LLC, which will target motorcycle dealerships and specialist retailers in the US."

News Briefs

Having dropped by -45% in five years (to a worst of $30.47), the Harley share price jumped by almost +5% in afterhours trading when news of Matt Levatich's "mutual" decision to leave Harley was released (28 February). However, within two further days of trading it had dropped back, at one point touching a near 10-year low of just $29.00 on 3 March; then came the Coronavirus run - it closed at $23.72 on March 13, having kissed the pavement at $19.23 the day before.
 
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame has announced its 2020 inductees - with Allen Alvarez, Jody Perewitz, Arlin Fatland, Skeeter Todd, Dave Mackie and Micah McCloskey and Vicki Sanfelipo among its Class of 2020. Don Hotop is to receive the Arlen Ness Lifetime Achievement Award, and Rushmore Chapter A.B.A.T.E. Group luminaries Wayne and Susan Lettau are to be recognized with the 2020 Freedom Fighters Award.

The Coronavirus panic has already claimed international motorcycle show calendar casualties. The Tokyo Motorcycle Show (slated for the end of March) was cancelled, Motorcycle Taiwan (April 15-18) has been postponed to October 21-24, 2020, with the 10th INABIKE in Indonesia rescheduled to March 24-26, 2021. At this stage, the biennial IMOS, described as the "biggest motorcycle show in Indonesia" is still scheduled to go ahead on 11-15 November 2020 at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC).

Back in December, H-D and its Benelli brand owning Chinese collaborator Qianjiang held a Design Freeze Signing Ceremony for production of the new 338 cc parallel-twin powered 'baby Harley'. AMD has not been able to substantiate rumors that the upcoming 1,250 cc Pan America and 975 cc Bronx will also be built in China. However, Harley's well documented parts ordering software issues, which already pushed their debut date to November 2020, suggests that they will be built in the USA, and as the software problems become compounded by Coronavirus triggered supply chain issues, don't be surprised if that date also slips.

 

Motorcycle Consumer News (MCN) is the latest motorcycle magazine/media to succumb to the seemingly inexorable desire for BS instead of proper information and journalism - it shut up shop at the start of February when Ann Arbor, Michigan based owner Lumina Media, LLC was dissolved. Founded in 1969 (by Roger Hull) as Road Rider, it became MCN in 1991 and was ad free and fully subscriber supported - not a long-term business model in these times when the human race, in media terms at least, appears to know the price of everything and the value of nothing!

Yamaha global motorcycle unit sales continued to decline in 2019, but its European operations improved according to BDN financial editor Roger Willis. Total revenue from the company's Land Mobility division fell by -1.6% to $10bn. Operating profit was -14.1% down at £293m; turnover directly attributable to motorcycles dropped by -2.5% to just under $9bn. Worldwide sales volume sank by -5.9% to 5,056 million units. Europe's contribution grew by +1.1% to $1.2bn, with unit sales +5.7% at 186,000 units; North America fell by -6.8% to around $380m with volume -6% at 63,000 units. Their Japanese domestic market lost -5.4% volume at 88,000 units.

A reminder that in June 2019 the City of Sturgis changed the way it determined when the City of Sturgis would recognize the start date of the motorcycle rally, with the 2020 Rally start date officially slated as Friday August 7.


Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news