EICMA has at all times been the gold customary of bike commerce reveals. Manufacturers of bikes, gear, equipment and gear flock to Italy yearly to showcase their newest improvements. And in recent times, EICMA has been nothing wanting stellar.
Anyone who’s anybody on this planet of two wheels makes certain to placed on a present at EICMA. But again in 2021, BMW Motorrad made an announcement that it will stop participating in any and all motorcycle trade shows till additional discover. Back then, all the world was nonetheless grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic—one thing that now looks like a distant reminiscence.
But it looks like that is all about to vary.
BMW Motorrad not too long ago introduced that it’ll certainly be making a comeback to EICMA this 12 months. And none aside from the corporate’s boss, Markus Flasch, made the assertion. “It is with great pleasure that I announce the presence of BMW Motorrad at EICMA. I can’t wait to experience this great show firsthand and share the immense passion that drives us with our entire community, two-wheel enthusiasts, and fans of our brand.”
It appears that BMW’s been experiencing a critical case of FOMO for the previous 4 years and it’s been lacking out on EICMA. Or perhaps, simply perhaps, the German producer has an enormous shock up its sleeve that it merely couldn’t let the distinguished halls of EICMA miss out on?
Whatever the case could also be, it certain is superior that one of many largest bike producers will probably be making a comeback at EICMA. Speaking of, EICMA 2024 is scheduled for November 5 to 10, 2024.
It’ll be held within the bustling fairgrounds of the Fiera Milano Rho. If you’re eager on attending the largest bike commerce present of the 12 months, it may be a good suggestion to start out reserving your flights and lodging as early as now as Milan tends to be jam packed throughout EICMA season.
At EICMA 2023, Michelin introduced its new lineup of tires for observe, road, and journey riders. The Power 6, Power GP2, and Anakee Road search to ship an enhanced driving expertise for all riders, and are actually accessible to fans in North America. Let’s check out the main points of every of those new tires, in addition to the sizes that accompany them.
Michelin Power 6
Michelin Road 6 – Honda CBR650R
Hitting the street is one thing that the majority riders are accustomed to, and it is simple to take our tires as a right. Unlike off-road and track-focused tires, road tires have to be versatile and resilient because the street can typically throw surprises at us, most of which our tires want to soak up. Unlike observe tires that are designed for both moist or dry circumstances, road tires have to excel at each, and that is what Michelin’s Power 6 affords riders. The Power 6 has been designed for max grip and optimum management, and guarantees sporty dealing with and agility due to its growth from Michelin’s motorsports experience.
Check out the sizes for the brand new Michelin Power 6 within the desk under.
Rim Size
Tire Size
17
110/70ZR17 (54W)
17
120/70ZR17 (58W)
Rim Size
Tire Size
17
140/70ZR17 (66W)
17
150/60ZR17 (66W)
17
180/55ZR17 (73W)
17
190/50ZR17 (73W)
17
190/55ZR17 (75W)
17
200/55ZR17 (78W)
17
240/45ZR17 (82W)
Michelin Power GP2
Michelin Power GP2 – BMW S 10000 RR
For these searching for the most effective efficiency on dry tarmac or on the race observe, the Power GP2 is Michelin’s latest providing for you. Michelin places a specific deal with dry grip to push the bike’s efficiency potential on observe. On high of that, the tire makes use of MotoGP-inspired expertise for max traction and predictable dealing with on the restrict. As is the case with most hypersport tires of this nature, the Power GP2 is finest fitted to high-performance sport and bare bikes, and the sizes are clearly a mirrored image of this. Check them out under:
Rim Size
Tire Size
17
120/70ZR17 (58W)
17
160/60ZR17 (69W)
17
180/55ZR17 (73W)
17
190/50ZR17 (73W)
17
190/50ZR17 (73W)
17
200/55ZR17 (78W)
Michelin Anakee Road
Michelin Anakee Road – BMW R 1250 GS
Combining mild off-road functionality and superior touring longevity, Michelin’s new Anakee Road is a stable selection for ADV-touring riders seeking to push the boundaries of their expertise. The tire has been engineered to optimize moist grip for assured driving in all climate, all whereas making certain confidence-inspiring traction on dry surfaces for spirited rides. On high of that, the tire’s development has been bolstered to offer further on-road stability for big journey bikes, with out compromising grip and cornering efficiency. Its aggressive but road-focused tread sample has been designed to go well with the styling of most trendy journey bikes, as properly.
Check out the sizes under:
Rim Size
Tire Size
21
90/90-21 54V
19
110/80R19 59V
19
120/70R19 60V
19
120/70ZR19 60W
Rim Size
Tire Size
18
150/70R18 70V
17
150/70R17 69V
17
170/60R17 72V
17
170/60ZR17 72W
Michelin’s 2024 lineup of sport, road, and journey tires can be found from Michelin sellers throughout North America. For the most effective and most correct pricing data, we advocate getting in contact along with your nearest seller, or visiting Michelin’s official web site.
Each yr, the worldwide motorbike present in Milan generally known as EICMA introduces each pleasure and anticipation for the brand new using yr but to return. Taking place in November helps, as a result of that is when the times are getting colder and drearier in a lot of the northern hemisphere. In addition, its placement simply earlier than the beginning of the busy vacation season in lots of cultures solely serves to intensify anticipation of the fashions revealed on the present.
It’s no coincidence that EICMA 2023 was the place each Moto Guzzi and Suzuki wheeled the Stelvio and the GSX-S1000GX into public view for the very first time.
Both bikes are supposed to lead the cost in demonstrating a formidable sport tourer for every OEM, however one which’s frivolously dusted with only a trace of ADV for seasoning. In Suzuki’s case, the model even sticks the bike into its personal particular “Crossover” class on its web site to additional differentiate it from the remainder of the vary.
Both bikes function the introductions of some severely spectacular technological developments for each manufacturers. The Moto Guzzi Stelvio options the very first occasion of the Piaggio Fast Forward Rider Assistance Solution digital radar-assisted rider aids package deal, whereas the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is the introduction of Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension to the world.
How do these two flagships examine on paper? Let’s discover out. Note: All specs supplied listed below are sourced from their respective producers.
6-speed gearbox with help and slipper clutch and a bidirectional quickshifter; chain closing drive
The Moto Guzzi Stelvio takes the 90-degree V-twin powerplant first used within the V100 Mandello and sticks it in a totally new chassis. According to Guzzi, this bike was developed in tandem with the V100 Mandello, and incorporates this engine into the Stelvio body in a confused member design.
How you are feeling about engine configurations is usually a private matter, and often has to do with how their traits make you are feeling within the saddle. Some of that has to do with how they sound, in addition to how they carry out. Power and torque do play a job, however they’re very not often the complete story.
The identical can be stated of ultimate drive selections. The Moto Guzzi Stelvio is shaft pushed, whereas the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is chain pushed. Rider emotions about each closing drive options are sometimes subjective, and never essentially quantifiable in any significant method.
Since the aim of a spec showdown is to stay to issues we are able to quantify, here is what we see. Although the Moto Guzzi Stelvio has barely bigger displacement than the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX, the GSX-S1000GX produces considerably extra energy and a tiny bit extra torque. In each situations, peak energy and torque come increased within the rev vary, which is smart given the engine configurations concerned.
Round One Winner: Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Chassis
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Frame
Tubular metal trellis body
Aluminum twin spar body
Front Suspension
46mm upside-down Sachs entrance fork providing rebound and preload adjustability
Showa Separate Function Fork with digital adjustability
Rear Suspension
KYB monoshock with rebound and preload adjustability
Showa BFRC-lite rear monoshock; totally and electronically adjustable
Wheels and Tires
19-inch entrance and 17-inch rear spoked tubeless wheels shod in Michelin Anakee Adventure rubber
17-inch entrance and rear alloys shod in Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires
Brakes
Two Brembo four-piston entrance calipers paired with 320mm floating brake discs up entrance; a single Brembo two-piston rear caliper with a 280mm brake disc within the rear. ABS at each ends.
Two Brembo monobloc four-piston entrance calipers paired with 310mm brake discs up entrance; a single Nissin one-piston caliper and brake disc of undisclosed measurement within the rear. ABS at each ends.
The alternative of a metal body vs. an aluminum body usually entails weight issues. Aluminum may be each light-weight and powerful, that are fascinating traits when developing a brand new mannequin of bike. For riders, it is usually a matter of private choice, and one which can additionally change by bike. In most instances, the selection of metal or aluminum for a body is not going to be a dealbreaker by itself.
Suspension-wise, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX clearly takes the crown right here. Regarding wheels and tires, it is in all probability a draw right here. The Stelvio has a barely extra adventurous bent to its inventory wheel and tire choice, whereas the GSX-S1000GX has a extra on-road character within the wheel and tire division. Which one riders desire will possible rely on their intentions for both bike.
Brake-wise, the Stelvio has a slight edge over the GSX-S1000GX, however that is to not say that the GSX-S1000GX needs to be counted out.
Round Two Winner: On paper, it is tough to argue with that totally electronically adjustable suspension. The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX wins this spherical as nicely.
Dimensions
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Wheelbase
59.8 inches
57.9 inches
Seat Height
32.7 inches
33.3 inches
Curb Weight
542 kilos
511 kilos, not together with aspect instances
Fuel tank capability
5.1 gallons
5.0 gallons
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX has a wheelbase that is almost two inches shorter than the Moto Guzzi Stelvio, which means that it ought to have faster steering. The proof of it will clearly be within the using, however that is what the figures indicate on paper.
Seat top on the Stelvio is barely extra accessible to shorter riders than the GSX-S1000GX, however not by a lot. For taller riders, clearly a taller seat top can be extra welcome. This is one other space the place the alternatives will largely be subjective (and also will rely on issues like how the seat feels, attain to controls, and so forth).
The distinction in gasoline tank capability is minimal, however the curb weight between the 2 bikes is extra important. The aspect instances on the GSX-S1000GX provide 25.7 liters of cupboard space and may deal with as much as 11 kilos of weight. Suzuki additionally particularly calls out that they need to match most full-face motorbike helmets, which is a particular plus when touring. The Stelvio, in contrast, doesn’t include aspect instances as customary. They could also be bought as equipment, although.
Round Three Winner: Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Electronics and Other Features
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Electronics suite
Five trip modes, traction management, ABS as customary. Two variations of the Stelvio can be found, and solely the highest of the road model comes with Moto Guzzi’s cool PFF radar-assisted rider support package deal for an extra cost.
Cornering ABS and traction management, low RPM help, digital suspension, trip modes, Suzuki slope-dependent management system,
Lighting
LED throughout, with Moto Guzzi’s “bending light” system that can assist you see higher round corners in low visibility situations
LED throughout
Display
5-inch TFT sprint with Piaggio MIA smartphone connectivity
6.5-inch TFT sprint with smartphone connectivity
How these two bikes stack up finally relies on which trim stage of Moto Guzzi Stelvio you are evaluating with the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX. Moto Guzzi plans to supply each a base and an up-spec model of the Stelvio to riders, and the cool radar-assisted Piaggio Fast Forward rider aids (radar-adaptive cruise management, blind spot detection, and so forth) will solely be obtainable on the up-spec variant. The base Stelvio doesn’t have these options.
While the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX has a barely bigger TFT show, it isn’t all the time measurement that issues in your sprint. How the knowledge is displayed, how straightforward it’s to navigate, and the way nicely it adapts to ambient lighting situations in order that it is simply seen to riders tends to matter extra.
Round Four Winner: Suzuki GSX-S1000GX if we’re evaluating it in opposition to the bottom Stelvio; Moto Guzzi Stelvio if we’re evaluating the top-spec model with all of the bells and whistles to the one model of the GSX-S1000GX.
Price
Moto Guzzi Stelvio
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
MSRP (US market; in the event you reside outdoors the US, examine along with your native Moto Guzzi and Suzuki sellers for probably the most correct info in your area.)
The base mannequin begins at $16,390; pricing for the up-spec model with radar-assisted rider aids is just not but obtainable on the time of writing.
$18,499
On the face of it, how keen riders are to justify a $2,000 value distinction between the bottom Moto Guzzi Stelvio and the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX relies on their emotions about options and preferences.
The Stelvio has a shaft drive. The GSX-S1000GX has a sequence drive.
The Stelvio does not include exhausting aspect instances. The GSX-S1000GX does.
The Stelvio does not include an digital suspension, and even one which’s totally adjustable. The GSX-S1000GX has each.
Is it price $2,000 extra to riders, although? It in all probability relies on the rider.
It can be attention-grabbing to see how Piaggio costs the up-spec model of the Stelvio, and the way that compares to the GSX-S1000GX as soon as that determine is accessible. For now, although, we are able to solely go together with the knowledge obtainable on the time of writing.
Round Five Winner: Draw. The Stelvio is $2,000 inexpensive than the GSX-S1000GX, however it additionally does not have baggage or an digital suspension included in that price. $2,000 does not look like an unreasonable value to pay for these upgrades in 2024.
Overall Winner:
2024 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX wins our Spec Showdown this time round!
Suzuki got here out of the gate swinging with the GSX-S1000GX, touchdown physique blows in opposition to loads of its competitors. Other bikes may additionally provide digital suspensions, however the worth proposition on provide with this package deal is hard to disregard. There’s rather a lot to understand right here; at the very least, on paper.
Depending on the way it’s priced, the Moto Guzzi Stelvio with the radar-assisted tech will possible pose a much bigger problem. We definitely would not rely it out, particularly when you think about that issues like styling and ergonomics aren’t actually lined by spec sheets.
We Ride Bikes, Not Specs
That leads us neatly to our subsequent level, with which we all the time like to shut our Spec Showdowns. Riders are passionate individuals. We trip bikes; we do not trip spec sheets. Just as a result of one thing appears good on paper does not all the time imply that it is the proper alternative for you when you’re within the saddle.
Riders are additionally all completely different individuals. For instance, as I’ve mentioned right here previously, I’m not solely a rider who’s considerably vertically challenged (top round 5-foot-3.5 inches, give or take). I’m additionally a rider with a shorter inseam than most. Since that is the case, I’ve to work somewhat more durable to get my toes on the bottom generally.
Other riders are taller, or at the very least have longer legs; different riders may need shorter or longer arms, or bigger or smaller fingers. All of these items have an effect on how comfortably bikes match us, and thus, how a lot we every get pleasure from using particular person motorbike fashions.
Since we’re all constructed so in another way, the best possible factor you are able to do to seek out the precise bike for you is to check trip any and all bikes that you simply’re contemplating as your subsequent machine. While specs on paper would possibly provide help to begin to make a listing of bikes you need to cross-shop, specs alone cannot inform you how you may really feel a couple of bike when you trip it. Only using the bikes in query can do this.
At EICMA 2023, Royal Enfield handled the world to the spectacular launch of the Himalayan 450. The new-generation Himalayan was virtually nothing like its predecessor, boasting solely new underpinnings, and a brand new engine that’s in contrast to something we’ve seen from RE earlier than. While the first-gen Himalayan was a go-anywhere ADV akin to a tractor, the brand new Himalayan was sportier, filled with brap, and dare I say, extra like a full-fledged ADV-enduro.
With that being stated, the rumor mills are as soon as once more churning, as latest stories counsel that Royal Enfield is engaged on a beefed up model of its journey bike known as the Himalayan 450 Raid. With a rumored inner identify of Project K1X, the Himalayan 450 Raid can be a extra off-road-focused iteration of the already off-road succesful Himalayan 450. It’s anticipated to come back with an entire bunch of refinements designed to make it a greater performer in relation to tackling the gnarly stuff.
A report by Indian automotive publication Rush Lane means that the upcoming Himalayan 450 Raid will come geared up with absolutely adjustable entrance and rear suspension, in addition to elevated floor clearance. On high of that, it’ll even be lighter, however the report doesn’t give any speculated weight figures. For reference, nevertheless, the Himalayan 450 has a claimed moist weight of 196 kilos, or about 432 kilos, so sure, it’s a bit on the heavy facet in relation to ADVs of this kind, as its closest rival, the 390 Adventure has a claimed moist weight of 379 kilos.
Apart from improved suspension and lowered weight, the Himalayan 450 Raid can also be anticipated to be decked out in all types of off-road-ready accouterments. For occasion, a rally sump protects the stomach of the beast from injury when traversing rugged terrain, whereas engine guards preserve the motor intact within the occasion of a crash. Hand guards permit riders to bust via bushes and light-weight foliage with ease, whereas tubeless spoked-wheels instill confidence when tackling all types of terrain.
While all that is thrilling for RE fans searching for a totally succesful off-roader, it seems we’ll have to attend fairly some time earlier than we see this bike hit Indian roads, not to mention the worldwide market. A report from News18 states that on account of the truth that the brand new Himalayan 450 Raid can be geared up with tubeless spoked wheels, securing approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards may take a while. That being stated, the Himalayan 450 Raid is predicted to make its debut at EICMA 2026, and be slated for an Indian launch within the early months of 2027.
It looks as if Benelli has no scarcity of recent fashions to launch onto the market. At EICMA 2023 alone, the Chinese-owned Italian model unveiled an awesome variety of bikes slated for launch within the world market. After all, Benelli is owned by Qianjiang Motors, one of many largest Chinese motorbike producers, and father or mother firm to the likes of Keeway, QJ Motor, and MBP.
Not lengthy after showcasing a lot of new fashions late final yr, Benelli has already introduced the supply of a few of them, extra particularly, the Tornado 400, which is anticipated to go on sale in Europe within the first half of 2024. The Tornado 400 is the center little one within the trio of sportbikes launched at EICMA 2023, all of that are powered by parallel-twin engines. It clearly desires to tackle the crop of established twin-cylinder sportbikes already in circulation – bikes just like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 (up to date to the Ninja 500), CFMoto 450 SR (450SS within the US), Honda CBR500R, and Yamaha YZF-R3.
For reference, the Benelli Tornado 400 was beforehand launched within the Chinese market beneath the Tornado 402 moniker. It’s been up to date barely to fulfill European rules, extra particularly, to cater to A2 license holders trying to step as much as a much bigger bike from their A1-restricted newbie machines. The Tornado 400 is rocking a Euro 5-approved 399cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a dual-overhead camshaft. This engine pumps out 47.6 horsepower – the restrict of the A2 class. Power is shipped to the rear wheel by way of a handbook six-speed gearbox.
This engine is housed in a tubular metal body full with a elaborate single-sided swingarm. As for the suspension, Benelli depends on an inverted entrance fork with 37 millimeter stanchions, and a linkage-equipped rear monoshock. Braking duties are dealt with by entry-level Nissin floating calipers mounted axially onto the entrance fork.
With a 14.8-liter gasoline capability, we’re a moist weight of about 172 kilograms, or round 380 kilos, which is pretty light-weight and accessible. On high of that, we get full-LED lighting, a full-color TFT show with 5 inches of actual property, Bluetooth smartphone pairing, USB charging, and even a swanky tire stress monitoring system.
As talked about earlier, Benelli is anticipated to roll out the brand new Tornado 400 in Europe inside the first half of 2024. As of this writing, nevertheless, no official pricing has but been introduced. For reference, the Honda CBR500R goes for round 7,000 euros ($7,650 USD) in Italy, and the Ninja 400 retails for across the identical quantity. As such, we should always count on Benelli to cost its bike considerably decrease, ought to it need to appeal to consideration away from its mainstream rivals.
Back at EICMA 2023, a number of producers showcased their electrical two-wheelers, within the hopes of getting extra riders to make the shift. While electrical scooters and commuters are plentiful, we’re seeing increasingly enthusiast-focused machines hit the market. Niu, for instance, showcased its first electrical dual-sport referred to as the XQi3, and now, it’s set to be made out there in Europe from the spring of 2024.
Niu can be providing the XQi3 in two variants – an off-road-only mannequin referred to as the Wild, and a street-legal model referred to as the Street. The latter can be labeled as a moped, so relying on the place in Europe you’re from, you’ll both want no less than a automobile license or an A1 license to experience it round.
On the efficiency finish of issues, the XQi3 is powered by a mid-drive motor, as all electrical dirtbikes ought to. A series final-drive sends energy to the rear wheel, with Niu claiming eight kilowatts, or about 10.7 horsepower. The Street mannequin is proscribed to a high velocity of 45 kilometers per hour (28 miles per hour), whereas the Wild model will get an Ultra-Boost characteristic that unlocks a high velocity of 75 kilometers per hour (46.6 miles per hour).
The motor is housed on the backside of the aluminum body, promising a low middle of gravity for simple maneuverability. As for the battery, the bike’s rocking an detachable LG 72-volt, 32-amp-hour unit with round 80 to 90 kilometers (49 to 55 miles) of vary on a single cost.
Performance apart, the Niu XQi3 is underpinned by light-weight parts that blur the road between e-moto and e-MTB. For starters, the bike will get long-travel suspension with preload and rebound adjustability. It rolls on 19-inch spoked wheels shod in knobby tires, and involves a cease with entrance and rear disc brakes measuring 220 mm and 203 mm on the entrance and rear respectively.
As is the case with most of Niu’s choices, the XQi3 packs quite a lot of useful tech. It comes commonplace with full-LED lighting, a TFT show with smartphone connectivity and NFC unlocking, and even a useful USB-C charger. There’s even GPS navigation so that you can simply discover your approach arond city, or make it to the closest exit when exploring trails. To high all of it off, the Street model provides flip indicators, rear-view mirrors, and a license plate holder for good measure.
As talked about earlier, the Niu XQi3 can be making its solution to Europe within the spring of 2024. Its retail worth, as introduced throughout its launch at EICMA 2023, is about at 5,999 euros, or about $6,574 USD. It’ll be bought in quite a lot of colours and graphics permitting riders to discover a design that fits their fashion.
At EICMA 2023, Aprilia unveiled its smallest performance-oriented mannequin up to now, the RS 457. Following within the footsteps of its larger sibling, the RS 660, the RS 457 caters to sporty riders trying to enter the grassroots of bike racing, or just on the lookout for a sensible and tractable sportbike for each the road and the observe.
That being mentioned, we’re already beginning to see the small-displacement sportbike roll into a number of markets. Interestingly, pricing information within the US was one of many first to be introduced, with the RS 457 beginning at a fairly engaging $6,799 for the Prismatic Dark and Opalescent Light colorways, and $6,899 fo the extra premium, racing-inspired Racing Stripes livery. Now, the sportbike has simply been launched in India on the not too long ago concluded India Bike Week, and its tremendous reasonably priced price ticket may make people from different markets a bit jealous.
In the Indian market, the place the RS 457 is produced, it carries a price ticket of simply Rs 410,000, translating to about $4,918 USD. This makes it an much more reasonably priced possibility than the Kawasaki Ninja 400, a beginner-friendly sportbike which, fairly frankly, is wanting a bit lengthy within the tooth when in comparison with the cutting-edge tech and efficiency options the Aprilia brings to the desk. Could the brand new Aprilia RS 457 elevate the bar in the case of small displacement sportbikes? Only time will inform, however on paper, it positive looks like that is the case.
From a efficiency standpoint, we get a brand new 457cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft. Although it boils down to non-public choice, it’s typically agreed upon {that a} 270-crank parallel-twin delivers higher torque – to not point out sound and character – than that of a 180-degree twin. It’s no shock that different producers like CFMoto and even Honda are going for this configuration. In the case of the RS 457, it dishes out a decent 47 horsepower at 9,400 rpm and 43.5 Nm or about 32 pound-feet of torque at 6,700 rpm.
In phrases of know-how is the place the Aprilia RS 457 actually shines. The Noale model has all the time been related to cutting-edge tech, so it’s becoming that its entry-level premium mannequin ought to come out of the manufacturing facility decked out in all types of techie goodies.
Here, we discover a five-inch, full-color TFT show that retains tabs on all pertinent trip stats. A throttle-by-wire system affords three trip modes, in addition to three ranges of traction management. Meanwhile, suspension consists of a 41-millimeter inverted fork and monoshock combo. As for the brakes, it will get a single 320-millimeter disc up entrance and a single 220-millimeter disc on the again.
During its EICMA 2023 press conference, established Taiwanese motorbike manufacturer Kymco showcased its Ionex EV Solution. The program consists of three things, intended to address the needs of both stakeholder businesses and future riders.
For riders and network operators, Ionex Energy Stations will allow quick and simple battery swapping for vehicles on the Ionex platform.
On the energy company side, the plan involves offering Ionex batteries in a “Battery-as-a-Service” format. This setup is designed to alleviate concerns for owners of Ionex-powered vehicles about battery health.
Kymco states that under this system, the batteries aren’t part of the ownership equation for vehicle buyers. This could ultimately lead to lower costs for purchasing electric motorbikes. As older batteries lose their ability to fully charge, network operators can recycle them and supply customers with new, fresh batteries.
Finally, Kymco’s Battery Metering Unit aims to simplify the adoption of the Ionex system for multiple motorbike designs by various manufacturers.
While Kymco is known for manufacturing scooters and motorcycles, its Ionex proposition is an entire ecosystem. Ionex Battery Metering Units would exist on any motorbike making use of the Ionex platform, allowing all interested manufacturers to integrate the Ionex Common Battery into their design.
Kymco has described a common Ionex platform as a solution to the biggest obstacles in making electric motorbikes. For riders, potential benefits include reduced worries about range anxiety, battery health, and up-front vehicle cost.
4 Questions About Ionex With Kymco Chairman Allen Ko
Following Kymco’s Ionex presentation, RideApart had a few additional questions that Kymco chairman Allen Ko answered.
Is Kymco’s Ionex technology expected to power future LiveWire bikes?
Yes, Kymco’s Ionex technology is anticipated to be the driving force behind potential cooperation between LiveWire and Kymco for smaller electric motorbikes.
Where does Kymco plan to roll out the Ionex ecosystem?
Kymco plans to gradually introduce the Ionex ecosystem worldwide, with strong interest from potential partners in countries outside Europe and Southeast Asia.
How is Kymco exploring the feasibility of using the Ionex system in various areas?
Kymco is exploring the feasibility of using the Ionex system in multiple areas. For example, at the Smart City Summit & Expo in 2022, Kymco showcased an Ionex Smart Streetlight, combining a solar power generator and Ionex battery swapping cabinet to power streetlights at night.
EICMA 2023 drew in motorcycle and technology enthusiasts with its showcase of new models packed with advanced technology, blurring the lines between mobility and IoT devices. Several new models also boasted enhanced performance, pushing the envelope not only in terms of horsepower but also in refinement and safety.
This year’s show garnered huge attention from the international media and attracted more than half a million attendees. A total of 560,000 people from around the world participated in the Milan motorcycle show to witness the latest innovations in the technology-driven motorcycle industry. The expo featured a record-breaking 2,036 brands.
Although many of these brands are based in Italy, a substantial 67 percent of all exhibitors came from other countries, representing 45 nations. Out of the 2,036 featured brands, 30 percent were newcomers to the industry, highlighting the growth potential of the global motorcycle industry.
Comparing this year’s EICMA to 2022, there was an impressive 19% increase in attendance in 2023, with 563,848 people present. Moreover, 39,392 industry professionals, 52% of whom were international, joined the excitement in Milan. The event also drew over 7,000 media personalities from 62 countries, providing extensive coverage for enthusiasts worldwide.
In the official press release, Paolo Magri, CEO of EICMA, expressed his excitement about the massive success of EICMA 2023. “There is no pre- or post-pandemic, there is EICMA. Reading these results leaves no room for interpretation, confirming how our event continues to demonstrate international appeal and unique value in the world, growing uninterruptedly and exponentially since 2021,” said Magri.
Pietra Meda, the President of EICMA S.p.A., remarked, “EICMA has continued to evolve from a trade fair to an exhibition event, entering its 110th year with an open eye to the future and innovation, also serving as a cross-cultural and lifestyle event.”
Despite its long history, EICMA shows no signs of slowing down. The success of EICMA 2023 has led to the announcement of the dates for EICMA 2024. Mark your calendars for November 5 to 10, 2024, as the renowned Milan expo will return next year.
EICMA is now in the history books for another year, and motorcycle enthusiasts in and around the UK are getting ready for Motorcycle Live 2023. This year’s event will be held from November 18 to 26, 2023 at the NEC Birmingham. It’s the UK’s biggest motorcycle event of the year.
While most major manufacturers hold major debuts at EICMA, a select few also showcase interesting things at Motorcycle Live. This year, Langen Motorcycles plans to unveil its newest model, the LightSpeed, for the first time in public.
Langen made waves back in 2020 by introducing its first model, the Langen Two-Stroke, which defied expectations by offering high power and torque while meeting emissions standards. The bike used a 250cc powerplant from Italian maker Vins, providing a claimed 75 horsepower and 33 pound-feet of torque with a 14,500 rpm redline.
Fast forward to 2023, Langen’s latest offering, the LightSpeed, ditches the two-strokes and small power plants. It now features a 1,190cc V-twin from Rotax making 185 horsepower at 10,600 rpm. The engine is manufactured by Buell, with further development by Langen. The bike also boasts a high-tensile steel tubular space frame and carbon fiber bodywork, as well as high-spec suspension from Öhlins, and performance brake calipers from Hel alongside a pair of floating 320mm front brake discs to ensure precise handling and stopping power. Langen claims a power to weight ratio of 1,000 brake horsepower per tonne.
Langen plans to release the LightSpeed in two versions. The UK Launch Edition, a limited run of 185 units homologated to UK standards, is available for reservation with pricing starting at £37,000 plus VAT. For those outside the UK, worldwide type-approved versions of the LightSpeed might become available in limited numbers by 2026.
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