Category Archives: Dealer News

New Suzuki Katana embarks on UK tour ahead of spring arrival

A pre-production version of Suzuki’s new Katana has embarked on a nationwide UK tour, giving enthusiasts the chance to see it up close and try it for size ahead of the bike’s arrival in the spring.

After being on display at the Irish Bike Show and London Motorcycle Show in February, the new Katana has since set off on its travels around the British Isles, where it will visit almost every authorised Suzuki dealership along the way. It will also take centre stage at this month’s Scottish and Manchester bike shows.

For a full list of roadshow dates and to find out when the Katana is near you, click here.

The new Katana is heavily influenced by the original, with a design that pays homage to the iconic bike from the 1980s. However, the new machine is based around a thoroughly modern chassis and engine package, and benefits from a three-mode traction control system, low-RPM assist, and Suzuki’s easy-start function.

The Katana’s next stop is the Scottish Motorcycle Show on 8-10 March.


 

Kawasaki Supercharged and Versatile Dealer Events Set for Take Off on 21st March 2019

Kawasaki dealers across the nation will simultaneously host their highly anticipated annual open evening events on 21st March 2019, giving customers the unprecedented opportunity to experience the newest Kawasaki motorcycles in the flesh and enjoy their hospitality.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR YOUR LOCAL DEALERS EVENT

The event has been dubbed ‘Supercharged and Versatile’, in honour of two of the most ground-breaking models developed by Kawasaki for 2019. The ever accelerating Ninja H2 SX SE+ and the all-new Versys 1000 SE, both enhanced with the addition of Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension. Alongside these benchmark motorcycles will be an extensive list of new and updated models from our range including the Ninja 125, Z125, Z400, Ninja ZX-6R, Ninja ZX-10R range and all of the current Kawasaki motorcycles that you have come to admire!

Attendance is by registration only and each registered customer will go into a draw to win one of the following national prizes*:
1st – 1x ticket for a Saarland and Moselle, Germany Tour with Dragon Moto on 2-7 May 2019. For full details on the tour and what is included, please visit www.dragonmototours.co.uk
2nd – VIP tickets for a 2019 BSB round of the winner’s choice, with a pillion ride around the track (full leathers must be worn)
3rd – £150 Kawasaki Clothing & Merchandise Voucher

In addition to the national prizes, each Kawasaki dealership will select a winner on the evening for 1 x Leon Haslam print by Billy the Artist and 1 x Motorcycle Traveller book by legendary film creator, Peter Starr.

SIGN UP FOR YOUR LOCAL DEALERS EVENT

To register your attendance at the Supercharged and Versatile Event, simply fill in the registration form below and select your local Kawasaki dealer. You can also request a test ride through this form, if you are looking to try out one of our 19MY motorcycles, and the dealer will be in contact to arrange a suitable date and time for your test ride.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR YOUR LOCAL DEALERS EVENT

For more information, contact your local Kawasaki dealer.

See you there!

* The following terms and conditions will apply to the National and Dealer prize draw:

  1. The prize draw is open to UK and Northern Ireland residents aged 18 and over.
  2. Participants must hold a current UK motorbike licence for all test ride bookings and have a valid email and postal address to participate.
  3. Participants must supply full details as required by the enquiry form. No responsibility is accepted for ineligible, incomplete, or fraudulent entries.
  4. Information provided by participants in registering for this promotion will only be used by Kawasaki Motors UK and the chosen Kawasaki Dealership in future, if entrants have provided permission.
  5. You have the right to change your details held by us or withdraw your consent at any time by contacting the Customer Service department, Kawasaki Motors UK, Branch of Kawasaki Motors Europe N.V, 1 Dukes Meadow, Millboard Rd, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5XF.
  6. No entrant information whatsoever will be made available to any third parties.
  7. This draw is not open to employees, dealers, dealer staff or contractors of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Motors Europe and Kawasaki Motors UK or any person directly or indirectly involved in the organisation or running of the draw or their direct family members.
  8. Each qualifying participant can enter the free draw to win advertised prizes.  Duplicate entries will be deleted.
  9. The competition closes at 1:00pm on Monday 18th March and Kawasaki Motors UK will draw the prize winning customer details at random at 2:00pm on Monday 18th March.
  10. The 1st national prize is valid for a Dragon Moto Tour to Saarland and Moselle, Germany on 2-7 May 2019 only. If the winner is unable to accept these travel dates, fails to arrive by the departure time or does not hold a valid passport, their prize will be forfeit and the winner shall not be entitled to any form of compensation.
  11. A pillion partner ticket can be purchased for the Saarland & Moselle, Germany Tour by the winner with a 15% discount off the RRP. To book, please contact Geraint or Jan on 07816 396614 or email info@dragonmototours.co.uk
  12. For full Dragon Moto terms and conditions please visit https://dragonmototours.co.uk/2019-saarland-germany.html
  13. The prize as described is available on the date of publication. Should the prize become unavailable, a substitute tour of equal value shall be provided. The prize is non-transferable and there are no cash alternatives.
  14. A member of the KMUK marketing department will contact the dealerships directly to advise them of their winning customers details. An email providing further information about the prize, and how it will be coordinated, will be sent from KMUK to the winning participant within five working days of the draw. The winning participant will then be required to confirm acceptance of the prize by replying to the email within seven days of this date. Following acceptance of the prize the winning customer’s details will be shared with Dragon Moto Tours.
  15. If a winner does not confirm acceptance of the prize within seven days, they will automatically forego the rights to claim the prize and a new winner will be chosen from the winning customers who were successful in reaching the final stage of the draw.
  16. The decision of the promoter, Kawasaki Motors UK, is final. No correspondence will be entered into.
  17. KMUK and Kawasaki Dealerships reserve the right to use photography of the event and competition winners on social media channels.
  18. By entering the draw participants agree to be bound by these conditions.
  19. For KMUK’s full privacy policy please visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk

Popular local motorcycle dealership Shirlaws Suzuki to celebrate 90th anniversary

With Shirlaws Suzuki marking its 90th anniversary in 2019, the popular local dealership is celebrating with an open day this weekend (26-27 January) at its showroom based at The Arches on South College Street, Aberdeen.

Established in 1928 by Leslie B Shirlaw, the firm was originally known as Shirlaws Garage and dealt in used motorcycle and car sales and repairs, and remained on its original site throughout the second world war. Leslie G Shirlaw began working with his father at the family-run business during the 1950s, before the company moved to Princes Street for a more central location in Aberdeen.

Moving into the 1970s the company name changed to Shirlaws and became main dealers for a number of brands, including popular Japanese manufacturer Suzuki. Now operated by Leslie G Shirlaw, he was joined in business by his siblings Roy and Pat.

Since then the business has continued to grow from selling used bikes and spare parts to forming Shirlaws Racing Team and winning the British Championship in 1989 and at the Isle of Man TT in 1994. Despite all this, the dealership remains the same family-run business providing new and used motorcycles along with top-quality customer service selling more than 850 bikes each year, bought by customers all over the UK and Ireland and is now run by fourth-generation Craig Shirlaw.

This weekend’s open day will see Suzuki’s new Katana on display for the first time, alongside other models from Suzuki’s on-road range. There will also be a number of special offers running, including £300 worth of free accessories with all new motorcycles purchased and 20% off all clothing and riding kit. Information will also be available on Suzuki’s current offers that include 0% finance on GSX-R1000R and an industry leading 2,3,4 campaign that allows customers to choose an APR and term to match on a number of machines.

John Gibb, Shirlaws Suzuki sales manager, said,“In 90 years there have been many changes at Shirlaws but the fundamentals have remained the same – knowledgeable and friendly staff providing high levels of advice and customer service to a loyal customer base. It might be January but everyone in the team at Shirlaws is excited for the weekend. There’ll be plenty on for people to come and get involved with, including an original Katana to go along the new one from Suzuki, and we can’t wait to see everyone that comes along.”

Suzuki GB’s Pete Swift, added,“We’ve been involved with Shirlaws for a long time and have a great relationship with the team there. They’re an excellent group of people with real passion for what they do, and it’s no wonder the business has been around for so long and been as successful as it has. It’s also testament to the team that the anniversary has been recognised by the Scottish Parliament. We’re set for a good weekend, it’s great that the Katana is going to be on display for the first time, too, and we’re looking forward to the event.”

Shirlaws Suzuki can be found at 13 The Arches – South College Street, Aberdeen AB11 6JX.


 

​ SWM Secures New UK Distributor

Italian motorcycle manufacturer SWM has appointed 3X Motorcycles as its official UK distributor, ensuring that new 2019 models will be available through the dealer network and existing owners continue to receive support.

Founded in 1971, SWM (short for Speedy Working Motors) quickly established a reputation for innovative design, underlined by success in European motocross and endurance races.

The current range includes enduro and supermoto machines from 125cc – 500cc, modern classics from 125cc – 440cc and the 600cc SuperDual adventure sport bike. All are designed and produced in the large, modern SWM factory on the shores on Lake Varese in Northern Italy.

3X Motorcycles specialise in European machines and have imported Peugeot scooters since 1985, recently adding Rieju from Spain and French brand Mash to their portfolio. They will provide full support for SWM owners and dealers, supplying new bikes and genuine parts, managing warranty claims and finance deals, and offering technical assistance.

For more information, telephone 01020 810100 or visit www.swm-motorcycles.it

Triumph’s Dealer Season Open Night Announced

Triumph dealerships around the UK will host an open evening on Thursday 21st February to reveal the British marque’s new 2019 models and celebrate the full MY19 Triumph motorcycle range.

Fans will have the opportunity to view the entire Triumph line-up, including the recently launched Street Scrambler and Street Twin.

Also on display will be the stunning new Scrambler 1200 and Speed Twin, priced at £11,500 and £10,500 respectively. Both built around Triumph’s high performance 1200cc Bonneville twin, the Scrambler 1200 XC and the top-of-the-range XE are designed for peerless style and capability, for genuine adventure and for full-on scrambling.

Meanwhile, the new Speed Twin re-introduces the illustrious name to the Triumph modern classics line-up and combines cutting edge roadster performance with beautiful modern custom styling.

As well as displaying the latest Triumph range, each local dealer event will include clothing displays, food & drink, and much more.

Paul Lilly, General Manager, Triumph Motorcycles UK & Ireland, said: “There’s been an excellent reception to our exciting new MY19 range, especially the Scrambler 1200 and new Speed Twin. Powered by the same 1200cc Bonneville twin, they’re as powerful as they are stunning to look at. We can’t wait for our fans and customers to see them up close and enjoy their full capability out on a test ride.”

Find out more about Triumph’s MY19 range – https://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/

To locate your nearest event, go to Triumph’s find a dealer page – https://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/dealers/find-a-dealer

New UK Distributor For Mash

Mash Motorcycles has appointed 3X Motorcycles as its official importer and distributor in the UK with immediate effect.

About MASH motorcycles:
The French brand, based in Burgundy, started designing motorcycles at the end of 2011. Instantly Mash became a leader on the French market in the 125cc segment. Since then the range has been evolving and expending to multiple models and capacities from 50cc to 650cc (due in Spring 2019).

Mash motorcycles first appeared in the UK in 2015 and have built a dedicated following – the UK owners group has more than 2,000 members on Facebook.

Frédéric Fourgeaud, Mash Motorcycles President:

“We are very happy to appoint 3X Motorcycles as our distributor for the UK. Their experience and know-how will allow a great level of support to the dealer network and a perfect experience for our customers.

About 3X Motorcycles:
3X Motorcycles – who already import Peugeot scooters and Rieju motorcycles – will provide full support for Mash owners through the dealer network, supplying new bikes and genuine parts, managing warranty claims and finance deals, and offering technical assistance.

Richard Davies, Managing Director of 3X Motorcycles, is excited about the future for Mash in the UK;

“We have four decades’ experience of distributing European brands, so our operation is the perfect springboard for Mash to reach its full potential over here. Their range of classically styled 50cc, 125cc and 400cc geared bikes is spot-on for the growing retro market and sits comfortably alongside Peugeot scooters and the sporty Rieju lightweight motorcycles”.

“We’re in the process of contacting all existing Mash dealers to arrange meetings to share our plans for the Mash brand and update them on the exciting new models due for this year”.

For more information, telephone 01020 810100 or visit www.mash-motors.fr/en/


Bristol Biker Cafe Outperforms Posh Restaurants

A Bristol Biker Cafe has scored top marks in its recent food hygiene rating from City Council inspectors, outclassing some of the city’s most stylish restaurants.

Situated on the mezzanine area of the top floor of Fowlers Motorcycles, close to Bristol Temple Meads station, Harry’s Café was given top marks under the city’s Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, which is run in partnership with the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

The 5-star rating awarded to Harry’s Café was judged in three categories, hygienic food handling, food safety management and the condition of the premises, all of which were assigned the highest grades available, exceeding those of the city’s fashionable eateries. Jane Waite, who has run the café for nearly 10 years, is delighted;

“I’m really pleased with the online published results from the recent inspection by Bristol City Council and it’s fantastic to have our efforts acknowledged by the authorities. Over the past 10 years, as word has spread and ever more customers enjoy visiting Harry’s, our seating has increased from 30 to 100, and our behind-the-counter team has responded brilliantly. My great passion is to supply top-quality food to our customers, and the staff in Harry’s receive a high standard of training and are given a thorough understanding of food safety/hygiene, meaning we have the best practices in place. I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved at Harry’s and how such a wide variety of customers are attracted to visit us – some have never even ridden a motorcycle!  Most of our customers simply say they enjoy coming for the tasty food we prepare here in our kitchen, as well as the relaxed atmosphere and some friendly conversation.” 

Harry’s Cafe (named after Harold Fowler, who built up the successful Bristol motorcycle dealership) serves freshly prepared hot and cold food in fully air-conditioned premises, with access for disabled persons. It is open from Monday – Saturday 8.30am to 4pm and 11am to 4pm on Sundays. Find out more at www.fowlers.co.uk.

Notes – Food hygiene ratings for Bristol businesses can be checked at https://www.bristol.gov.uk/pests-pollution-noise-food/food-hygiene-ratings


Fowlers Go Green

Fowlers Parts, the Bristol-based motorcycle spares distributor, is launching a major initiative to reduce the environmental impact of packaging.

Fowlers supplies genuine motorcycle parts from 13 different manufacturers, carrying over 100,000 lines in stock and sending out hundreds of parcels every day, so even small changes make a significant impact on the amount of waste created. Incredibly, Fowlers has been able to convert almost all key packaging materials to recyclable or biodegradable versions.

Envelopes lined with plastic bubble-wrap will be replaced with 100% recyclable paper-filled versions, plastic packing tape is being substituted with recyclable paper Ecotape, and all plastic air pillows will be biodegradable in future.

Heavyweight plastic banding – for which there is currently no alternative – will only be used for heavy parcels, reducing usage by over 90%.

Fowlers is looking into replacing Shrink Wrap with reusable Pallet Wrapz – an eco-friendly reusable alternative to plastic stretch film – except where specifically required by customer, reducing usage by more than 95%. This could save up to a tonne of shrink wrap per year, which would stretch for 90 miles, the distance from Bristol to Birmingham!

Warren Lane, Assistant Warehouse Manager, is spearheading the drive and reports an unexpected benefit of going green:

“We’d gone into the matter believing we would be financially worse off by implementing the policy, and were aiming to find out by how much we’d be out of pocket. Having done all our calculations, we were amazed to discover that going over to more eco-friendly packaging was going to actually save us money overall. Our findings were a pleasant surprise. For example, the savings we make minimising the usage of banding and shrink-wrap will offset the higher price of the recyclable paper-filled envelopes.”

Currently, the business is also investigating the best way to deal with food waste, and is converting to low energy LED lighting throughout their premises.

Joint Managing Director Stephanie Fowler is passionate about “being kind to our beautiful planet Earth” and hopes that other motorcycle wholesalers and mail-order retailers will be inspired to follow Fowlers’ lead.

You can find out more by calling Fowlers on 0117 977 8899 or visit  www.fowlersparts.co.uk.

Special Edition Vespa Helmets

Vespa has added three new helmets to its range of genuine accessories, to match the latest special edition GTS and Primavera scooters.

The two new Yacht Club Helmets are designed to be the perfect partners for the special edition GTS and Primavera models of the same name, and come in blue and white liveries, with contrasting graphics and eco leather finishing matching that found on the scooters.

Both Blue and White versions will be available in limited runs of 250 in each colour – the issue number printed on the eco-leather chinstrap. Compact enough to fit into most underseat storage compartments and top boxes, the tough ABS shell is ECE 22.05 certified for road use and they are fitted with a polycarbonate 2mm visor as well as a retractable sun visor. Inside, a breathable textile lining keeps the rider comfortable and cool, and it can be removed and washed as necessary.

Also new is the VJ Double Black Helmet, which has a stealthy look to match the GTS Notte special edition Vespas. Featuring a combination matt and gloss painted ABS shell, with black chromed edging and black painted steel visor pivots, the VJ also has a retractable sun visor and full length clear external visor.

Held firmly in place by a micro-adjustable quick-release strap and fastener, the VJ comes with a breathable microfibre 3D textile lining to keep the rider comfortable and cool in the heat of the city.

All three models are made in Italy and come in size XS-XL. The Yacht Club Helmets retail at £155.00 and the VJ costs £160.00. Although tailored to match the Italian manufacturer’s models perfectly, both models will look at home on any retro ride. For details on these and the complete range of Vespa official accessories visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk

BMW Motorrad Expands UK Rider Training Network

BMW Motorrad has opened two new Rider Training centres in Darlington, County Durham and Edinburgh, Scotland, to bring the brand’s top-quality road skills training to experienced riders, plus those new to motorcycles.

The new schools join the brand’s established sites: BMW Rider Training South – in Royston, Hertfordshire and BMW Rider Training West Midlands – in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. The new sites will offer the same comprehensive suite of training for those learning to ride, through to the RoSPA Advanced Rider standard.

Scott Grimsdall, BMW Motorrad UK Marketing and PR Manager, said: “The addition of BMW Rider Training centres in Darlington and Edinburgh will enable thousands more new and experienced motorcyclists to experience the best bikes with the best instructors, while benefitting from the highest standards of tuition and safety. We are immensely proud that since opening our first BMW Motorrad training centre in 2006, we have helped more than 10,000 people to learn to ride and grow their skills.”

BMW Rider Training centres offer a suite of Direct Access courses that fast-track new riders to pass their full motorcycle test (over four-to-seven-day courses). The riding schools also train seasoned riders with three levels of road skills courses refining and enhancing roadcraft and ultimately offering participants the chance to take their Advanced Rider Test with an independent RoSPA examiner.

The new BMW Rider Training North East site in Darlington is headed-up by lead-instructor Iain Corser and is situated next to the Durham Tees Valley Airport, just off the A66 / A67 junction. Meanwhile, overseen by lead-instructor Marcin Kopacz, the BMW Rider Training Scotland site in Bonnyrigg is just five minutes from the local Eskbank train station and BMW centre in Dalkeith. Both schools offer riders a broad selection of BMW bikes upon which to learn and enhance their skills – from the capable BMW G 310 R roadster to the renowned R 1200 GS adventure bike.

Ian Biederman, UK Rider Training Chief Instructor, said: “We believe that offering our customers a true ‘BMW experience’ from the earliest point in their motorcycling lives is vital to establish the greatest confidence, safety standards, and road skills of any rider. Each of the BMW Rider Training centres provides new and experienced riders with a premium experience rather than the sub-standard ‘under-the-arches’ training some riders suffer.”

Each BMW Rider Training centre offers BMW’s industry-leading ‘Rookie to Rider’ scheme, which equips those new to motorcycling with a new BMW machine and a full-set of safety gear, alongside a seven-day Direct Access rider training course. For just £650 contribution and as little as £109 a month, new riders can access the expert tuition at any BMW Rider Training site, before riding away in BMW safety clothing on a brand-new BMW motorbike.

To find out more about BMW Rider Training or to book a course, call the World of BMW team on 08000 131 282, or go to www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk/en/world-of-bmw/rider-training.html.

New Piaggio Summer Gloves

Light, flexible and breathable, Piaggio’s new Summer Gloves are designed to make scooter riding on hot summer days much more comfortable.

The palm is predominantly made from Clarino – a man-made alternative to leather that out-performs leather in some applications, yet retains its softness, even when wet, and is microporous, to allow moisture and heat to escape.

This works with mesh panels on the back for ventilation, to keep hands feeling fresh.

The short cut means they can sit easily under the cuffs of summer riding jackets and also allows airflow around the wrists and forearms.

For added comfort and dexterity, the gloves use stretch fabric, and the Neoprene cuff, with Velcro closure, ensures a secure fit. Thermoplastic rubber knuckle protectors complete the package.

Piaggio Summer Gloves come in sizes S-3XL in classic black with a subtle Piaggio Logo injected on the wrist closure. They retail at £49.00 including VAT.

For further details of these and to see the complete range of Genuine Piaggio accessories, visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk

New Piaggio Helmet Is Flipping Good

New from Europe’s largest scooter manufacturer, the Piaggio Modular Helmet is comfortable, practical and protective – the perfect riding partner both in and out of town.

In town, when filling up with fuel, grabbing a snack or running an errand, the single button chin bar release makes it easy to reveal your face for recognition purposes.

A quick-release, micrometric chin buckle means there’s no fiddling about in the car park or bike bay either – it’s as quick to fasten and adjust as it is to release.

Out on the open road the aerodynamically designed shell offers cleaner airflow to keep the head stable, easing pressure on the neck for a relaxed ride. Made from tough, light thermoplastic/resin for strength and flexibility, with UV protection, the helmets is certified to the current ECE22.05 safety standard for road use.

The scratch-resistant visor and internal, flip-down sun visor keep the view of the road ahead clear, while venting to the top and chin bar channels a cooling breeze through the EPS liner and out via exhaust vents to the rear.

The high quality textile lining is hypoallergenic, as well as fully removable and washable, for season-long freshness and comfort.

Piaggio’s Modular Helmet comes in two subtle colour choices – Bianco and Army Green – in sizes XS-XXL, and sells for £129.

For a complete list of original accessories for Piaggio and Vespa scooters  visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk

Triumph’s TFEST annual dealer open weekend announced

On Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd April, all 50 Triumph UK dealerships will be hosting TFEST, the annual celebration of its iconic motorcycle range.

Fans will have the opportunity to view the entire Triumph line-up, including the recently launched Bonneville Bobber Black, Bonneville Speedmaster, Tiger 800 and Tiger 1200.

Also on display will be the stunning new Speed Triple S & RS, the latest generation of Triumph’s modern motorcycle icon. Now with more power, more technology and more attitude than ever, it’s the most advanced and sophisticated Speed Triple ever built.

As well as displaying the latest Triumph range, each local dealer event will include great entertainment such as live music, new season clothing displays, food and much more.

Paul Lilly, General Manager, Triumph Motorcycles UK & Ireland, said: “There’s been a huge amount of excitement around our new models and in particular the new Speed Triple S & RS. They have more power, sharper handling and more technology than ever before, so we’re really excited for our fans to see them both and book themselves in for a test ride. With so many great new Triumphs on offer, we would recommend that visitors reserve their places for the event; TFEST is always extremely popular and we don’t want anyone to miss out.”

To find out about your nearest TFEST event, go to: http://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/inside-triumph/tfest-2018.

Vespa Go Undercover

A must for any scooter left outdoors, Vespa’s Genuine Outdoor Covers protect against the weather, dust and spray from passing vehicles, bird droppings, harmful UV rays, and unwanted attention, too.

The police and most major insurers advise using a cover whenever the scooter is parked, because this simple precaution prevents criminals identifying whether yours is a model on their ‘shopping list’ and provides another time-consuming obstacle for thieves.

Model-specific for a snug fit and maximum coverage, Vespa Genuine Outdoor Covers are 100% waterproof, to keep the weather out, and breathable, to prevent the build-up of condensation and moisture around the scooter.

The material is resistant to heat, cold and harmful UV rays, so will keep on protecting for seasons to come. A draw-cord at the base secures the cover, preventing flapping and billowing in windy conditions and helping to prevent it being lifted by opportunists.

They also feature reinforced cut-outs through which a chain or D-lock can be passed – a great visible deterrent for thieves and at the same time preventing the cover itself from being removed.

Shaped to allow for a windscreen and top box, they feature a clear window for the number plate. A reflective strip and Vespa logo help the scooter stand out to other road-users.

Genuine Vespa Scooter Covers are available for the GTS and GTS Super, retailing for £77-, and to fit the PX, Primavera and Sprint, at £67- (including VAT). For details on these and the complete range of Vespa official accessories visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk.

The 2018 Ducati UK roadshow begins its tour in Cardiff for the first of 24 dates nationwide

The Ducati Roadshow heads to southwest Wales on Saturday the 24th March for the first of 24 Roadshows across the country. Riders of Cardiff will host the first date before the Ducati UK demo fleet moves on to Buckinghamshire and Ducati Aylesbury two weeks later.
 
The Ducati event truck and demonstrator fleet has become a permanent fixture on the Ducati UK events calendar and for 2018 the number of dates has been increased due to customer and dealer demand. The roadshow provides its dealer network with an extended test fleet and experienced road test guides who will map out routes to take in a variety of roads and conditions to fully assess the bikes capabilities. Pillion riders may also join in the test rides for the chance to appraise the ergonomics of these machines.
 
The demonstrator fleet showcases the majority of the 2018 range including the new Panigale V4 S, 959 Panigale, Multistrada 1260, Multistrada 950, SuperSport and the soon to be launched Scrambler 1100. All models are subject to availability and the booking of test rides in advance is recommended.
 
To take a test ride at any of these events, riders must have a valid motorcycle licence and appropriate clothing and safety gear. Local dealership staff will be on hand to give expert technical, sales and service advice and trained riders will be there to guide all test rides.
 
The Ducati UK event truck along with a fleet of demonstrators and display bikes begins at Riders of Cardiff on March 22 before finishing at Ducati Oxford on September 16.
 
For the latest information on the Ducati Roadshow visit and to locate your nearest dealer visit www.ducatiuk.com or contact your local dealer directly.

Subject to availability – check with supporting dealer.


 

Rieju relocates to Three Cross Motorcycles

Three Cross Motorcycles has been appointed as the exclusive UK Distributor for Rieju Motos with effect from 1st March 2018, as part of a strategic decision by the Spanish manufacturer to expand its presence in the British market.

Until now, Rieju’s range of 50cc and 125cc bikes had been supplied to dealers through a wholly-owned subsidiary. The new arrangement with Three Cross, who have imported Peugeot Scooters into the UK since 1994, creates significant economies of scale, giving Rieju dealers and customers access to well-established aftersales support services, covering parts, warranty and technical advice.

“Rieju is a natural fit for 3X Motorcycles”, says Richard Davies, Managing Director at 3X. ”We’ve specialised in importing European motorcycle brands since the 1980s and Rieju’s range of 50cc and 125cc bikes sits perfectly alongside Peugeot’s popular scooters, providing dealers and their customers with an exciting selection of lightweight transport solutions from the Continent.”

Founded in 1934, Rieju is best known in the UK for its RS3 sports bike and the supermoto styled Marathon & Trophy, all offered with Euro 4 compliant 50cc and 125cc liquid cooled engines, produced by Yamaha’s Motori Minarelli engine plant in Italy.

For more information, telephone 01202 810100 or visit www.riejumoto.com

Triumph announces nationwide Season Open Night to showcase 2018 bikes

Triumph will hold its annual Season Open Night at dealerships around the country on 22 February to showcase its new models for 2018.

This will be the first opportunity for customers to see the latest Tiger 1200 and 800 models – the perfect companion to any rider’s passion for travel and discovery.

For fans of Triumph’s Modern Classic range, the darker, meaner and stronger Bonneville Bobber Black will star alongside the authentic British custom and laid back riding style of the all new Bonneville Speedmaster.

On show with the rest of Triumph’s extensive model range, this will be the perfect evening for customers to find their next bike.

Paul Lilly, Triumph General Manager, UK & Ireland, said: “This is an exciting time for Triumph with so many new models on sale. Season Open Night is the perfect opportunity for customers and fans of the brand to come down and see what we have to offer. Our dealers around the country look forward to welcoming everyone along later this month.”

Find your nearest Triumph dealer at: http://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/dealers/find-a-dealer.

Designer Gear For Vespa GTS

Vespa has teamed up with design specialists Rizoma to create an exclusive range of accessories for owners of its popular GTS Super scooter.

Rizoma specialise in manufacturing cutting-edge motorcycle and scooter accessories, using billet aluminium. Each part is designed and manufactured in Italy and – as you’d expect – finished to an incredibly high standard, adding a subtle, sporty and contemporary look.

Starting from the front, Vespa GTS owners can opt for the Rizoma Front Shield/Horn Cover (£185.00) and Mudguard Crest (£53.00) to give their scooter a striking profile.

A short, stylish Fly Screen (£239.00) adds practicality as well as style, and can be accentuated with Rizoma’s alloy Rear View Mirrors (£124.99 each).

Finishing off the look is the Engine Oil Filler Cap (£40.00), Transmission Cover Cap (£80.00) and Grab Hand Support Cover (£53.00).

Vespa GTS Premium Sport Accessories are suitable for both the 125 and 300cc versions of the Vespa GTS Super, and are available exclusively through Vespa’s Genuine Accessory range.

For a complete list of original accessories for Vespa scooters, call 0117 972 5552 or visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk

A new era begins as the Panigale V4 is delivered to European dealerships

The wait is over. Production of the Ducati Panigale V4, which began last 15th November, is already running at full capacity. Even before the end of 2017, about 500 motorcycles had already been delivered to European dealerships. Over the coming weeks this stunning superbike will also be available to other markets where Ducati is present.
Jorge Lorenzo showed a big interest in the new superbike, so after the 2018 Ducati Team presentation he visited the production line with product engineers to get to know all technical aspects of this masterpiece.
The Panigale V4 is the first production Ducati motorcycle to mount a 4-cylinder engine, derived directly from the MotoGP Desmosedici.. It’s a concentrate of Ducati technology, style and performance. With a power/weight ratio of 1.1 hp/kg, this bike sets a whole new standard in the supersport production bike segment. Developed in close collaboration with Ducati Corse, this road bike is the closest thing possible to its MotoGP counterpart.
The wait is over, a new era has begun.

2018 Aprilia RSV4 RR hits UK showrooms in February

Due in showrooms during February the 2018 RSV4 RR features the same jewel-like 201bhp V4 engine, adjustable frame and aPRC electronics suite as its award-winning brother, the RSV4 RF. The differences, apart from graphic treatments are Sachs, instead of Ohlins, suspension and cast, not forged wheels.

Priced at just £15,599 on the road, the cream of superbike technology can now be had for the same price as an ordinary road bike! For those who want to go the extra mile, the 2018 RSV4 RF is also available at £19,999 on the road.

A range of PCP and HP finance options are available and buyers can build a finance package that suits their circumstances at www.apriliabikefinance.co.uk

UK Aprilia Retailers can be found at www.piaggiogroup.co.uk