JOB: SALES ADMINISTRATION SUPERVISOR, YAMAHA

SALES ADMINISTRATION SUPERVISOR

CONTACT DETAILS: PERSONNEL@YAMAHA-MOTOR.CO.UK

Sales Support Division

Our busy Sales Support Division is looking for a dynamic and experienced Supervisor with strong planning and team leading skills. Based at our head office near Woking, Surrey and reporting to the Business Services Manager. The core responsibilities are, but not limited to, supervising a team of four to efficiently support the sales of our units for all product groups as well our parts & accessories business.

The successful candidate will need to work with Managers and colleagues within our main product groups to complete future planning of stock enabling targets to be met within the competitive markets. They will need to challenge the performance of our logistics partners to ensure Yamaha maintains its brand strength through the supply chain to our established Dealer network.

Creating a synergy between unit and parts & accessories processing procedures will be essential to cater to the individual support needs of each product group. The production of regular reporting on the company’s sales performance and contributing ideas at monthly sales meetings for the efficient running of campaigns are also requirements.

Applicants will need to be organised with strong Excel skills and thrive under pressure. We are looking for a team player who shows commitment to others and who strives to be an expert in everything they say and do.

In return, our company can offer a competitive salary, auto-enrolment onto a stakeholder pension scheme as well as other unique benefits.

If you are passionate and ready to commit to a challenging yet rewarding role in our Sales Support Division then please send your up to date CV with covering letter (including salary expectation) to:

Personnel Dept., Yamaha Motor Europe N.V., Branch UK
Unit A2 & A3 Kingswey Business Park, Forsyth Road
Sheerwater, Surrey GU21 5SA
or Email: personnel@yamaha-motor.co.uk

Closing Date 22nd March 2019
No agencies please

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JOB AT YAHAMA: PARTS AND ACCESSORIES AREA SALES MANAGER

PARTS AND ACCESSORIES AREA SALES MANAGER

CONTACT DETAILS: PERSONNEL@YAMAHA-MOTOR.CO.UK

Sales and Marketing Division

An exciting opportunity has arisen within our busy Parts and Accessories team for a dynamic self-motivated individual to be responsible for nationwide sales and activities for the parts and accessories business in the UK.

Reporting to the Parts & Accessories Manager, the core responsibilities will be but are not limited to, visiting the key accounts in the UK to maintain and increase the growing portfolio of Yamaha Parts and accessory products. Providing comprehensive
education to the network on our digital customer touch points. Assistance with creating efficient campaigns that support the main product groups. Strengthening the Yamaha brand by ensuring the correct use of visual identity and shared value.

The successful candidate is required to have a proven track record in sales, be a team player showing commitment to others and striving to be an expert in everything they say and do. Attendance at key shows, events, Dealer conferences and regular sales
meetings at our head office will be part of the role and will need a flexible approach.

In return, our company can offer a competitive salary, company car, auto-enrolment onto a stakeholder pension scheme as well as other unique benefits.

If you are passionate and ready to commit to a challenging yet rewarding role in our Sales and Marketing Division then please send your up to date CV with a covering letter (including your salary expectation) to:

Personnel Dept., Yamaha Motor Europe N.V., Branch UK
Unit A2 & A3 Kingswey Business Park, Forsyth Road
Sheerwater, Surrey GU21 5SA
or Email: personnel@yamaha-motor.co.uk

Closing Date 22nd March 2019
No agencies please

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JOB AT YAMAHA: MARINE NORTHERN TERRITORIES AREA SALES MANAGER

 MARINE NORTHERN TERRITORIES AREA SALES MANAGER

CONTACT DETAILS:  PERSONNEL@YAMAHA-MOTOR.CO.UK

Sales and Marketing Division

An exciting opportunity has arisen within our busy Marine Sales team for a dynamic self-motivated individual to be responsible for unit sales and activities in the Northern Territories of the UK.

Reporting to the Marine Sales Manager, the core responsibilities will be but are not limited to, representing the Yamaha Brand in-line with the company’s shared values. Visiting our established dealer networks, maintaining and strengthening the relationships which exist as well as seeking out new sales opportunities for our outboard, WaveRunner and boat-building partnerships.

Applicants with sales experience is desirable as Marine is one of our key market sectors. You will need to have the energy and drive to meet challenging targets whilst working with the rest of the Marine Sales Team to ensure your own development and
a comprehensive level of service to our dealers and end customers. Attendance at key shows, events and Dealer exhibitions and regular sales meetings at our head office will be part of the role and will need a flexible approach.

The successful candidate will need to be a team player who shows commitment to others and who strives to be an expert in everything they say and do.

In return, our company can offer a competitive salary, company car, auto-enrolment onto a stakeholder pension scheme as well as other unique benefits.

If you are passionate and ready to commit to a challenging yet rewarding role in our Sales and Marketing Division then please send your up to date CV with a covering letter (including your salary expectation) to:

Personnel Dept., 
Yamaha Motor Europe N.V., 
Branch UK
Unit A2 & A3 Kingswey Business Park, 
Forsyth Road
Sheerwater, 
Surrey GU21 5SA

or Email: personnel@yamaha-motor.co.uk

Closing Date 22nd March 2019
No agencies please

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NEWS: HEARTBREAK AS FIRE DESTROYS WORKSHOP BUSINESS

HEARTBREAK AS FIRE DESTROYS WORKSHOP BUSINESS

A motorcycle repairer/restorer in Innerleithen in the Scottish Borders has spoken of his heartbreak after an inferno wiped out his business and 14 customer and personal bikes.

The blaze, which started in an adjoining industrial unit, destroyed six businesses and took six fire alliances nine and half hours to extinguish.

“It’s horrific. The business is totally obliterated,” said Duncan Lawrie, who had been running DARL Services – MoTs, repairs, servicing, restoration and storage - for the past eight years and who says the business where the fire is alleged to have started does not have insurance.

Lawrie is warning fellow motorcycle businesses to check their insurance and avoid taking premises in a row of units.

“My advice is that if you are getting a unit to work on your bikes, make sure it’s on its own so there’s no chance of any fire going right through them because the fire service reckons it went through six units in about 35 minutes. It was that quick. Then there’s no hassle when it comes down to insurance and that.”

SAD FOR EVERYBODY

Customer motorcycles destroyed in the blaze included a ZX-10R, a BMW R1200GS, a newly renovated Yamaha RD250 and a BMW R65 LS. Personal bikes included two Laverdas - a Mirage and a 750SF; a Douglas 600 Aero – one of only three ever made; a Honda XLV 750R, number 209 of just 500; and a 1932 Moto Guzzi  500 Sport.

“I enjoyed running the business. It has been very good, but when this has happened and it’s your own personal bikes as well, it’s sad, sad for everybody concerned.

“My first priority at the moment is to get the insurance money and pay all the customers’ bikes off. After that I will just take it from there.”

With the loss adjuster suggesting an initial insurance pay-out of just £70,000, Lawrie could face some difficult negotiations. “I haven’t got a final accounting because there was a lot of stuff but I am up to £485,000, so the insurance company is away in a different ball park.

“People are saying that may be the way forward is to do one of those crowd funding things.”

However, even if Lawrie does receive proper compensation, he says it is unlikely he will continue in business. “No, I would retire, I think. I am very close to retirement age so this has just sickened me, totally.

“The only positive is that there was nobody injured.”

duncanlawrie@btinternet.com

See video - click below

https://planetradio.co.uk/borders/local/news/watch-investigation-underway-following-fire-in-innerleithen-2/

Motorcycle Industry News at www.britishdealernews.co.uk

JOB: AREA SALES MANAGER REQUIRED

AREA SALES MANAGER

CONTACT DETAILS:  DENISBRADBURY@YAHOO.CO.UK

As a leading supplier to the trade, we are looking to recruit an Area Sales Manager to cover an area including Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Durham & Teesside.
The position would suit an experienced sales person to manage existing customers and develop new accounts. Existing contacts in the area and motorcycle industry experience would be an advantage. Basic salary plus tiered commission structure, company car, iPad & iPhone.

Please email your CV in confidence to denisbradbury@yahoo.co.uk

British Dealer News is the best place for motorcycle industry news and jobs www.britishdealernews.co.uk

JOBS: MOTORCYCLE TECHNICIANS NEEDED

MOTORCYCLE TECHNICIANS

Due to our continued growth and success we are looking for two fully qualified, experienced Motorcycle Technicians to join our workshop team on the Wiltshire/Dorset border, in our premium multi franchised dealership.
Moto Corsa is an official dealer for MV Agusta, Brough Superior, Royal Enfield, Benelli, Energica, Moto Guzzi and Aprilia.

Ideal Candidate
The suitable candidate should ideally be qualified to NVQ level 3 or C & G equivalent or higher and have a minimum of 3 years mechanical experience-  either automotive or motorcycle.

Essential
You should be able to work unsupervised in a safe and timely manner to high exacting standards. You must have technical experience of modern motorcycles and be able to use current diagnostic equipment.

From time to time you may also be required to talk to customers and as such you must be able to communicate clearly and provide technical explanations in a way that can be easily understood. You will be responsible for diagnosing, servicing, repairing customers bikes and preparing new and used bikes for the sales team as well as fitting and fixing accessories and aftermarket spares for customer orders ready for collection or delivery.

A full bike and car licence is essential.

If you are a qualified MOT tester that would be advantageous although not necessary but you must have the criteria to become an MOT tester.

MotoCorsa is treats training very highly – both as a retail shop and training of dealers for our imported product. Therefore, occasional nights away from home will be required.

Benefits
A very competitive salary and benefits package will be awarded to the successful candidate(s) which will fully reflect both qualifications and experience.

Please send CV and covering letter to david@motocorsa.co.uk

NEWS: TRIUMPH TO UNVEIL NEW MODELS IN DEALERSHIPS

TRIUMPH TO UNVEIL NEW MODELS IN DEALERSHIPS

Triumph dealerships across the UK will be removing the covers from the new Street Twin and Street Scrambler, as well as the 1200 Scrambler and the brand-new Speed Twin tomorrow evening (Thursday, 20 February).

As well as seeing the bikes at first hand, customers can book a test ride, enter competitions and meet up with pals.

Of the new Speed Twin, Triumph writes:

"The 1200cc Speed Twin re-introduces an illustrious name to our modern classics line-up, with an exciting all-new motorbike that delivers next generation modern custom capability and timeless Triumph DNA together with advanced rider technology and cutting edge roadster performance and feel. Designed to deliver a whole new standard in dynamic riding capability the Speed Twin, with its enhanced chassis setup, accessible riding position, advanced braking ability, high specification suspension, and thrilling power delivery, truly justifies its position as Triumph’s new performance icon.

"The 1200cc Speed Twin brings together all the modern custom style of Triumph’s Street Twin with even more stunning finishes and detail, all the comfort and timeless DNA of the Bonneville T120 but with more engaged ergonomics, and all the power and torque of the Thruxton R in an even more accessible modern setup.  The Speed Twin delivers a new standard in class-leading handling, and sets a new benchmark for how a custom roadster should ride and feel."

Of the Scrambler 1200 range, Triumph writes:

"The all-new Scrambler 1200 XE sets the benchmark with the ultimate in capability, style and performance.

"Powered by Triumph’s thumping high-power 1200cc twin, with a dedicated scrambler tune and incredible low down torque  (110Nm peak), this is a motorcycle with unparalleled road and off-roading ability, and a category-destroying level of technology and specification. Key features include next generation full-colour TFT instruments, six riding modes, optimised cornering ABS and traction control, long travel Öhlins rear shocks, fully adjustable long travel Showa forks and twin Brembo M50 radial monobloc front calipers.

"Redefining 21st century scrambling in stunning style, the Scrambler 1200 XE handles every bit as beautifully on the tarmac as  it does doing what the most focused adventure bike can do, and of course, full-on scrambling."

Of the new Street Twin, Triumph writes:

"Better performing, better looking, and even more fun to ride; everything about the new Street Twin is designed to deliver maximum enjoyment. Representing a major step forward for Triumph’s most successful custom classic, this new generation brings more torque-rich Bonneville power, higher specification equipment for more control & comfort, new first-in-class technology, and more premium style. In addition, there’s maximum customising capability for riders looking to add to the authentic character of a modern classic that’s world renowned for its accessible all-round performance, usability, riding feel and timeless iconic style.

"The Street Twin’s easy-going accessibility, authentic character, and urban style have ensured its reputation, and this newest modern classic now enjoys a significant 900cc Bonneville engine upgrade for a power increase of 18% over the previous generation. In addition you now also get an even higher specification with Brembo front brakes and cartridge forks, first-in-class technology including two riding modes, and accessory fit TPMS capability, improved rider ergonomics, plus an abundance of extra contemporary custom styling."

Of the new Street Scrambler, Triumph says:

"The Street Scrambler’s beautiful style, rugged off-road attitude and cool versatility has earned it a phenomenal reputation worldwide. And now, new-for-2019 enhancements add a new dimension of performance, capability, comfort and style to one of Triumph’s most accessible and easy-handling modern classics.

"With a significantly updated 900cc twin Bonneville engine for more power, higher standard specification equipment, new class-leading technology, more premium detailing and finish, and an even more distinctive and purposeful scrambler look, the result is a new generation Street Scrambler that’s even more fun to ride than ever before.

"The new Street Scrambler’s updated 900cc Bonneville twin engine adds even more power to its thrilling high torque delivery, which is up by 18% peak power output to 65PS with a rev range that’s higher by an extra 500rpm.  This is complemented by a host of premium upgrades including higher specification Brembo front brakes, cartridge forks, and more dynamic scrambler ergonomics for more control and comfort.  An advanced level of technology, with two new first-in-class riding modes, enhanced scrambler styling and more premium detailing, make this versatile easy-handling motorcycle even more purposeful and even more beautiful."

British Dealer News brings you the best motorcycle industry news www.britishdealernews.co.uk

JOB: OFFICE MANAGER

OFFICE MANAGER

CONTACT DETAILS: WYNN.C@ACERBIS.IT

An exciting and rewarding opportunity has arisen for an Office Manager to join Acerbis UK. Our business is expanding in both motorcycle and sports sales. We require an enthusiastic and experienced person to take on this roll and join our team based in Bedfordshire.
The applicant will need to be professional and organised, with an understanding of the motorsports industry. Self-motivation is an essential quality, you will need to be well-presented and personable, able to establish and maintain a good relationship with our clients. The candidate will need to be available to travel, when required and attend exhibitions and motorcycle events throughout the UK and Europe.

We are looking for may qualities including but not exclusively: experience of B2B Sales, good computer literacy, an understanding of office procedure and legislation, able to respond to technical questions.

A passion for motorsports would be a great advantage.

please send your CV and covering letter to: wynn.c@acerbis.it

British Dealer News is the best place for motorcycle industry news and jobs www.britishdealernews.co.uk

FINANCE: All the latest manufacturer results

ALL THE LATEST MANUFACTURER RESULTS

The major maufacturers have filed their full-year results and nine-month updates over the past few weeks, which our financial editor, Roger Willis, has analysed individually and in depth as they have come in.

Here we compile them on one file for easy reference.

 Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, KTM Industries, revealed an eighth-consecutive annual record of rising revenue, profit and sales volume in preliminary full-year results for 2018.

Turnover was 1.7% up to £1.356bn. Operating profit rose by 21.5% to £140m, with an adjusted operating margin of 8.6%. Pre-tax profit reached £124.6m, a 22.4% improvement.

Volume grew by 9.7% to a total of 261,454 motorcycles. The KTM brand accounted for 212,899 of these, while Husqvarna added 48,555. The company also claimed disproportionately large market-share gains on both sides of the Atlantic. In Europe, where total bike sales grew by about 8% last year, KTM brands increased their registrations by 21.5% — corresponding to a market share of 11.7%. And in the declining US market, where overall numbers fell by 2.3%, KTM bucked that trend by putting on 8.5% and lifting share to 8.9%.

These successes were partly attributed to launches of the new KTM Duke 790, plus Husqvarna’s Svartpilen and Vitpilen street models.

During 2019, KTM Industries intends to shift production of smaller-capacity Husqvarna road bikes to its Indian manufacturing partner Bajaj — which already makes all the smaller KTM-branded road kit — to cut costs. And it has set a global sales target of 400,000 motorcycles annually by 2022.

DISMAL PICTURE AT YAMAHA

Full-year 2018 results for Yamaha paint an increasingly dismal picture of its main motorcycle business. Annual revenue from bikes was 2.2% down to £7.168bn, as total sales volume fell marginally by 0.3% to 5.374 million units. Associated operating profit plummeted by 20.8% to £382m.

Developed markets were responsible for most of the damage, with revenue sinking by 6.4% to £1.643bn and an operating loss of £119m — against a £34m loss in 2017. Europe was the biggest culprit. Volume dropped by 11.6% to 176,000 bikes and revenue was 5.2% lower at £921m. In North America, volume fell by 4.3% to 67,000 and revenue by 4.9% to £351m.

Emerging markets, principally in Asia, did better but were still slightly on the back foot owing to adverse foreign currency conversion. Volume increased by 0.4% to 5.039 million. But revenue was 0.9% down to £5.525bn and operating profit retreated by 3% to £501m.

Although every other company division apart from power products achieved positivity in terms of both sales revenue and income, Yamaha’s struggling motorcycle segment inevitably put a dent in its overall bottom line. While revenue rose by 0.2% to £11.733bn, operating profit declined by 6% to £987m and net profit was 8.1% down at £655m.

HARD REALITY HITS HARLEY

With any benefit from various initiatives outlined in its “More Roads” master plan yet to materialise, Harley-Davidson had a tough time in 2018, as full-year results to 31 December reveal. BDN financial editor Roger Willis reports.

Annual revenue from motorcycles and related products rose by just 1.1% to £3.769bn. Financial services turnover was 2.2% up, adding £567.6m. So total revenue increased by a slim 1.2% to £4.337bn. But operating profit plunged by 19.9% to £541.3m and pre-tax profit was 20.5% down on £520.9m. However, because of the lavish year-on-year cut in US corporate taxation courtesy of President Trump, net profit was actually 1.9% up at £403.2m.

The impact of absorbing punitive tit-for-tat tariffs on exports to Europe, rather than passing that cost burden on to customers, had become obvious in fourth-quarter figures, though. Harley incurred an operating loss of £45.2m on motorcycles and related products in those final three months. Overall quarterly operating profit was reduced to a mere £2.8m, translating into a pre-tax loss of £3.1m and negligible net income of £376,000.

The brand’s wholesale bike shipments worldwide during the year were reduced by 5.3% to 228,665 units. Global retail sales fell by 6.1% to 228,051 motorcycles, illustrating particularly sharp inventory management. US dealers took the hardest hit, shifting 10.2% fewer machines at 132,868. International sales were a marginal 0.4% up to 95,183.

Best news was to be found in Europe, where the decision to maintain prices without passing on a massive EU import duty hike was amply rewarded by customers. As a result, Harley’s biggest overseas market grew by 3.5% to 41,179, outstripping a 1.8% improvement for the European 601cc-plus segment in which its products reside.  

The Asia Pacific region registered a 5.4% decline to 28,724. Of the two largest components within it, Australia sank by 21.2% while Japan made a 15% recovery. Latin America was positive, achieving 7.6% growth to 10,167. Canada was 3.9% down at 9690.

Wall Street investors reacted badly to these results, wiping 5% off Harley’s share price.

     
STRONG RECOVERY FOR POLARIS

On the face of it, 2018 was a year of strong recovery for dominant US powersports manufacturer Polaris Industries — but motorcycling activities didn’t contribute to such success.

Overall annual revenue climbed by 12% to £4.638bn. Operating profit put on 35.5% to £371.9m. Net profit almost doubled, 94.4% up at £255.8m, as President Trump’s generous corporate tax give-away kicked in. The company’s core off-road vehicles (ORV) division — encompassing side-by-side ATVs, quadbikes and snowmobiles — was primarily responsible for this resurgence. ORV revenue increased by 9.8% to £2.990bn.

As ever, Polaris was economical with details but a very different narrative affected its motorcycle business, featuring Indian bikes and Slingshot trikes. Annual revenue from the sector fell by 5% to £416.3m and fourth-quarter turnover plunged by 15% to just £66.4m. To gesturally explain that latter deterioration, we were told: “Indian sales increased slightly but were more than offset by the decline in Slingshot sales.”

We can assume widely-reported recall issues continue to plague the Slingshot brand. And the shine has gone from Indian because it’s beset with the same shrinking US domestic cruiser market and punitive European tariff problems afflicting Harley-Davidson. To address that export difficulty, Indian intends to “accelerate motorcycle production in Poland” during 2019. (Polaris has an already-established ORV manufacturing base in Poland, to serve the European market.)      

TEMPERED SUCCESS FOR HONDA

Although some of its core Asian markets are weaker, Honda’s motorcycle business growth in the three quarters of its fiscal year to date appeared unstoppable.

Nine-monthly revenue from bikes rose by 6.1% to £11.323bn. Operating profit for the sector was 16.3% up to £1.734bn. Operating margin improved from 14% to 15.3%.

Global wholesale shipment volume during the period climbed by 5.9% to an all-time record of 15.68 million Honda-branded motorcycles, scooters and ATVs. About two-thirds of these were manufactured by wholly-owned subsidiaries.

In the developed world, European sales were 4.6% up to 181,000. Domestic Japanese performance improved by 24.6% to 157,000. But North America was 6.9% down at 216,000.

Asian countries accounted for the vast majority of sales, boasting a 5.4% increase to 14.187 million bikes. Within that, Honda’s four biggest markets were responsible for 11.36 million of them.

India led the field on 4.49 million. But that represented only 2.5% growth — an indicator of how expansion there is slowing due to tighter consumer credit availability. Indonesia recovered tremendously, adding 11.4% to 3.69 million. And Vietnam was 13.1% up at 2.095 million. However, Thailand declined by 2.1% to 1.086 million. In other regions, mainly Latin American countries, sales improved by 15.1% to 939,000.

In response, Honda has reduced its full-year shipment forecast by 2.2% to 20.4 million, which still represents a 4.3% year-on-year improvement. Its forecast for Europe has been raised, though, by 2.1% to 245,000, while North America has been downgraded by 3.1% to 310,000.  

 PROFITS PLUNGE AT SUZUKI

Despite growing global sales in the nine months of its current fiscal year to the end of December, profitability for Suzuki’s motorcycle business was scuppered by adverse foreign currency translation.

Retail sales volume for the period rose by 11.8% to 1.303 million motorcycles, scooters and ATVs. But revenue was just 0.7% up to £1.271bn. And operating profit plummeted by 91.6% to a mere £977,000.

All the good news came from Asia, where volume climbed by 16.8% to 1.07 million units and related revenue was 14.7% up to £671m. India was star of the show, with volume 34.3% higher at 472,000 and revenue rising by 20.1% to £284m. The Philippines and Indonesia also contributed significant improvements.

The developed world was a disappointment. European retail sales stagnated on 33,000 units and revenue fell by 17.2% to £185m. North American volume grew by 3.7% to 28,000 but revenue was 7.5% down at £147m.   

A DIRTY WORD AT KAWASAKI

Despite growing bike sales, the motorcycle division of Kawasaki Heavy Industries has perennial profit issues, according to results for the nine months of its current fiscal year to date.

Overall three-quarterly divisional revenue increased by 5.3% to £1.589bn. Turnover from wholesale motorcycle shipments for developed countries, mainly in Europe, was also 5.3% up to £554m — based on 4.2% volume growth to 100,000 units. The number of bikes shipped into emerging markets was 11% higher at 253,000. But repatriated revenue from these rose by only 6.2% to £422m.

Combined utility vehicle, ATV and personal watercraft volume, predominantly destined for North America, improved by 9.3% to 47,000. Associated revenue was 5.9% up to £376m. General-purpose petrol engine sales delivered a 2.4% hike to £237m.

Given Kawasaki’s peculiar progressive income attribution slanted towards the latter half of each fiscal year, the division should have been out of red ink by its third quarter. But this was not the case. A very minor loss of about £200,000 replaced a nine-monthly operating profit of £22m at the same stage of the previous year.

The division said profitability had deteriorated due to a temporary increase in selling, general, administrative and promotional expenses. Higher costs for steel and other materials had also been a factor, as well as weak foreign currency translation from emerging markets. In response, it has reduced the full-year operating profit forecast by about 6% to £105m, on annual revenue predicted to advance by 4% to £2.424bn.  

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NEWS: WORKSHOP MANUALS' AUTHOR JOHN HAYNES DIES

WORKSHOP MANUALS' AUTHOR JOHN HAYNES DIES

John Haynes OBE, founder of the Haynes Publishing Group PLC and the Haynes International Motor Museum, died on 8 February following a short illness. He was 80 years old.

He was best known for his work in creating the Haynes Manual – illustrated repair guides available for many popular motorcycles and cars – having written the first one back in 1965 for a colleague’s Austin-Healey Frogeye Sprite sports car.

In an obituary posted on the firm’s website we’re told that John was "a kind, generous, loving and devoted husband, brother, father and grandfather”

"John will be greatly missed not only by his family, friends and colleagues but also by the many people that use his manuals, and benefit from his reassuring guiding hand as they repair and maintain their cars and motorbikes."

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EVENTS: KAWASAKI OPEN EVENINGS!

SUPERCHARGED AND VERSATILE OPEN EVENINGS

Kawasaki dealers will simultaneously host their annual open evenings on 21 March, giving customers the opportunity to experience the manufacturer's newest motorcycles in the flesh and enjoy their hospitality.

The event has been dubbed ‘Supercharged and Versatile’, in honour of two of the most ground-breaking models developed by Kawasaki for 2019 - the 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, including the Ninja 125, Z125, Z400, Ninja ZX-6R, Ninja ZX-10R.

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 from a Team Green BSB rider (full leathers must be worn)

3rd – £150 Kawasaki clothing and 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 film creator Peter Starr.

To register your attendance at the Supercharged and Versatile event, simply fill in the registration form and select your local Kawasaki dealer. Customers can also request a test ride through this form.

https://www.kawasaki-enquiries.co.uk/supercharged-and-versatile-open-evening

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EVENT: ALL SET FOR SUPER LONDON SHOW

ALL SET FOR SUPER LONDON SHOW

The world’s top motorcycle manufacturers will be taking over the ExCeL Centre in London this weekend as the Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show takes over the capital. Alongside a diverse range of exciting machines, two-wheel fans are promised "a celebration of biking with iconic race bikes, cool customs and top race stars going head-to-head in a free live action show".

Confirmed to be in attendance will be AJS, BMW, CCM, Ducati, Ducati Scrambler, Energica, Herald, Honda, Indian, Kawasaki, KTM, Lexmoto, Lextek, Norton, Suzuki, Triumph, UM, Yamaha and Zero.

The latest superbikes will be display, including the 179kg, all-new BMW S1000RR and Yamaha YZF-R1M. With many London motorcyclists using their machines for work, there will be plenty of commuter-friendly machines, including the new Kawasaki Ninja 125, Honda CB125 and KTM 390 Duke.

CCM will be showcasing the Spitfire Foggy Edition, pictured here at Motorcycle Live 2018, and will be bringing Carl Fogarty along to meet fans on the stand and to appear in the arena each day.

Also on show will be the Herald Brute 500 prototype, which has been designed, engineered and built in the UK. Triumph will also be exhibiting the best of British motorcycling by giving the 1200 Speed Twin its UK debut as well as having its Moto2 race bike on display. With the Ultra-Low Emission Zone coming into place in April, clean, eco-friendly transport will be a key mode of transport for Londoners of the future, with Energica and Zero bringing their range of electric motorcycles.

AVON TYRES

Avon Tyres will be showcasing its range of motorcycle tyres at the show. Its stand will feature Avon’s range of motorcycle tyres, special guest appearances and bike exhibits.

Visitors to the stand will get to meet former MotoGP racer and Avon Tyres ambassador Steve Parrish, who will be at the event on Friday doing a series of talks and Q&A sessions throughout the day. There will also be an appearance from contemporary street artist D*Face.

A number of bikes will be on display, including a Triumph Bobber Black with a D*Face customised tank  fitted with Avon’s Cobra tyres as original equipment and the new CCM Bobber  fitted with Avon’s Cobra Chrome tyres as original equipment. The new KTM 790S will also feature; launched in November 2018 this latest KTM is fitted with Avon’s TrailRider tyre as original equipment.

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NEWS: DISTRIBUTORS STOCKPILING FOR BREXIT

DISTRIBUTORS STOCKPILING FOR BREXIT

Held: Ducks in a row for Brexit

Distributors Larsson and Held are stockpiling product so they are prepared for any eventuality on Brexit. Not everyone is going down that route, however. Oxford Products says it has enough stock to last for several months.

David Dearden, joint MD of BDN distributor of the year Larsson – the Corby-based British arm of the German Matthies group - said: “Brexit is an issue for us. We have got to understand what’s going to happen there. We have made some contingency plans and are bringing in £1m worth of extra stock this month to avoid any potential tariffs or exchange rate problems.

Larsson UK began trading in 2012, supplying parts, tools and accessories to the motorcycle trade. The group has been trading on the continent in Germany, Poland, Spain and Italy for more than 70 years.

Guy Mainwaring of Held UK says the uncertainties of Brexit have forced him to make contingency plans. His exclusive UK sales agency for the German clothing company has previously not warehoused stock; when ordered by dealers it is shipped direct to them from Held’s headquarters in southern Germany.

“I’ve had two years of being very concerned about Brexit and 12 months of being really worried,” Mainwaring told BDN last month. “Deal, or no deal, no-one knows what’s going to happen, including the government. But regardless of what customs arrangements or tariffs are put in place, there will be delays and disruption.

“After a long search for a solution, we are joining forces with a major UK distributor [which he did not name] to hold stock in part of their new warehouse."

Oxford, meanwhile, is more relaxed. Andrew Hammond, MD of the Witney-based distributor, said: “Most of what we sell comes from outside the EU so we don’t see it as an issue with that coming through still. Maybe we are being naïve, but generally speaking we keep a lot of stock anyway so our cupboards will be stocked with months and months of stock anyway so if that goes down to one month of stock because of delays, it’s not an issue.”    

More in the March issue of BDN.  

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NEWS: SUZUKI, BMW, INFINITY WIN MOTORCYCLE LIVE AWARDS

SUZUKI, BMW, INFINITY WIN MOTORCYCLE LIVE AWARDS

BMW Motorrad UK, Suzuki and Infinity Motorcycles have received awards for their stands and customer experience at Motorcycle Live 2018.

Visitors to the UK’s biggest bike show were offered the chance to vote for Best Manufacturer Stand, Best Manufacturer Feature, Best Non-Manufacturer Stand and Manufacturer giving the best Customer Experience.

BMW was a double winner, claiming both Best Manufacturer Stand and Manufacturer giving the best Customer Experience. It was praised for the quality of product on the stand and having "extremely happy" staff who "made an effort to stand and talk" to visitors.

Suzuki was awarded Best Manufacturer Feature for the second year in a row, for its restoration of the only full G-54 Grand Prix bike in existence at the show, using the Suzuki Vintage Parts Programme.

The fourth award, for Best Non-Manufacturer Stand, was presented to Infinity Motorcycles. The stand offered show visitors all the top brands and a whole host of products to purchase - as well as special show deals.

Tom Poxon, brand communications and partnerships manager at BMW Motorrad UK, said: “We are very happy that the customers who visited Motorcycle Live voted not only our stand the best at the show but also credited us for delivering the best customer experience.

“With live, dynamic riding demonstrations, approachable, knowledgeable staff and focused customer experiences, we aimed to deliver customers a memorable and valuable experience when they visited the BMW Motorrad stand. With this approach we were able to interact with many customers and were able to generate strong interest in our model line-up. For us Motorcycle Live 2018 was an extremely successful show setting us up for an outstanding 2019.”   

Suzuki GB aftersales co-ordinator, Tim Davies, who organised the live build, said: “We’ve done a few builds and restorations in recent years at Motorcycle Live, but this is probably one of the most interesting because of the story that comes with the bike. When we learned about it and talked about bringing it back to life we were all really excited about the prospect. That’s when we thought, ‘if we’re this excited, hopefully other motorcycle enthusiasts will be too’. So we made the decision to bring it to Motorcycle Live so everyone else could enjoy seeing and hearing it restored to its former glory, and we’re really pleased to learn that it was appreciated by the visitors.”

Dave Holloway, sales director of Infinity Motorcycles, said: "It's fantastic to win the award for Best Non-Manufacturer Stand. A lot of time and effort goes into our retail stand and it's a huge pat on the back to our staff for their time and effort to receive the award. To be voted for by the visitors to the event, and to our stand, means a lot."

More than 100,000 bike fans visited Motorcycle Live 2018 over the course of the nine-day show, enjoying displays from over 40 of the world’s leading manufacturers and over 220 exhibitor stands and retail outlets.

Motorcycle Live 2019 will be held at the NEC between 16 and 24 November.

British Dealer News is the best place for motorcycle industry news www.britishdealernews.co.uk

SAD NEWS: JACK GLOVER OF GRANBY MOTORS DIES

JACK GLOVER OF GRANBY MOTORS DIES

Jack Glover, who owned and ran Ilkeston-based Granby Motors, one of the biggest independent motorcycle dealerships in the UK until it closed at the end of 2015, has died.

Granby Motors retailed Suzuki small bikes, Rieju, Garelli, Lifan, Zontes, AJS, Baotian and Siamoto. It was also exclusive European distributor for Siamoto spare parts.
At the time of the closure, the family said it was owing to illness and challenging trading conditions.

Granby Motors was formed in 1962 and Jack soon spotted an opportunity to sell the emergent Japanese motorcycles whose reliability was winning over even the most loyal British motorcyclists.

Instead of working with the manufacturers, which were looking for dealers to import and retail their machines, he and a few other entrepreneurs worked out how to purchase the bikes abroad and privately import and sell them, undercutting the main dealers. Realising that the sum of the parts was greater than the whole machines, he also parted the motorcycles and made healthy profits.

Soon, the rest of the world caught on to so-called grey imports and the internet brought a rush of cheaper parts from those trading with lower overheads, making it harder for Granby to make money. The decline of Granby Motors was not helped by the arrival of cheap Chinese bikes.

More details to follow.

British Dealer News is the best place for motorcycle industry news. www.britishdealernews.co.uk

BSB: CAROLE NASH SPONSORS KAWASAKI TEAM

CAROLE NASH SPONSORS KAWASAKI TEAM IN BSB

Leading motorcycle insurance broker Carole Nash has renewed its sponsorship of the Quattro Plant JG Speedfit Kawasaki team ahead of the 2019 British Superbike (BSB) season.

The Kawasaki BSB team this year consists of new riders Glenn Irwin and Benjamin Currie, both fresh additions to the team and eager to impress in the forthcoming season.

The team will also be competing on the international road race circuit, with Irwin racing at the North West 200. The Isle of Man TT representative for the team will be announced at the upcoming London Motorcycle Show and both riders will be visiting the Carole Nash stand.

Following a successful campaign for the team in 2018, the agreement will see Carole Nash branding displayed on all Kawasaki race bikes, team clothing and throughout the pit garage at the premier domestic superbike series for 2019.

Carole Nash, also has a number of exclusive VIP tickets to the BSB Championships as part of the deal, which will be shared with customers and up for grabs on its Insidebikes social channels.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Rebecca Donohue, head of marketing at Carole Nash, said: “We are delighted to once again be partnering with Kawasaki for the second year running.

“Leon Haslam won last year’s BSB title, and has now moved into the WSBK Championships – to challenge our fellow ambassador Jonathan Rea. We hope to see another successful Kawasaki winner this year in the BSB, and with both Glenn and Ben going for glory, it’s set to be a thrilling season ahead.”

The 2019 BSB season begins at Silverstone National on 19 April and concludes with the Brands Hatch GP between 18-20 October. To follow the team’s BSB progress visit: 

https://www.carolenash.com/insidebikes/news/

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NEWS: POTHOLE REPAIRS AND COMPENSATION PAYMENTS SOAR

POTHOLE REPAIRS AND COMPENSATION PAYMENTS SOAR

Highways England repaired 22,862 potholes last year, up from 14,104 in 2017, and the compensation bill soared from £81,500 in 2017 to £329,379 in 2018.

The definition of a pothole varies depending on where you live.

Britain’s roads are maintained by a network of 207 local highways authorities (LHA), each with its own budget, problems and priorities, and each allowed to come up with its own set of rules that defines when a road defect becomes a pothole that needs fixing. And even once a pothole reaches that critical threshold there’s an equally diverse set of response times and reactions. The overall result is that a pothole that gets fixed within hours on one stretch of road might be left for much longer – or allowed to get worse – if it was just a few yards away, across the boundary into another LHA’s territory.

The vast variation between different areas is highlighted by a set of Freedom of Information (FoI) requests sent out by the RAC Foundation late last year. Of the 207 authorities, 190 provided enough data for the RAC Foundation to pull together a comprehensive comparison of the varying thresholds and response times around the country.

The results show that, encouragingly, most (75%) of the LHAs now adopt a ‘risk-based approach’ to fixing potholes. That means rather than ticking specific boxes about pothole dimensions before triggering a repair, LHAs assess the potential dangers, both to people and vehicles, and base their decisions to fix holes on those risks. However, most still have dimensional thresholds that the potholes must exceed before they even enter the risk-assessment phase, and there’s a wide disparity of those thresholds across the nation.

The RAC’s FoI revealed that in some parts of the country (12 LHAs) there’s no specific threshold, and any reported road damage will automatically be risk-assessed. In another 37 LHA, small potholes between 20mm to 30mm deep would get assessed, while at the other end of the scale there were 26 LHAs that won’t even initiated a risk-assessment, let alone a repair, until the hole is more than 50mm in depth. For car drivers, that could be the difference between an uncomfortable thump and a puncture or dented wheel rim. For motorcyclists the stakes are rather higher.

Even the chance of a pothole being recorded in the first place varies from place to place. Although there is a Code of Practice for LHAs that recommends checking primary and secondary roads once a month, link roads once every three months and local roads once a year, only 28% of LHAs actually follow that guidance. In all, the RAC Foundation discovered there are 109 different inspection frequencies used between the 190 authorities that responded to its investigation. As well as these inspections, authorities will also check on potholes reported by the public; so if you see or hit a pothole that looks like it poses a danger, it’s worth reporting it as it could be weeks or months before the next scheduled check on any particular piece of road.

Even once a pothole has reached the threshold of size required for a risk-assessment, there’s a wide variation in response times depending on the LHA area that it falls within and the results of that assessment. But even then, there’s still a broad spread of responses.

In some areas, potholes assessed to be in the worst category will be fixed ‘immediately’, with 8% aiming to be on the case within an hour for the most dangerous holes and 42% aiming at a two-hour limit. But here the postcode lottery for potholes is clear once again – in Harrow, for instance, the worst holes will be fixed within 30 minutes, while in Coventry the target time for fixing holes of the same class is five days.

Reactions to less severe potholes are similarly diverse, with 18% of LHAs aiming to fix the least-urgent ones within 28 days, while 25% will leave it until the next ‘programmed works’ on that stretch of road and 13% will simply monitor the hole, leaving repairs until it gets bad enough to slide into a riskier category.

Away from LHA roads, potholes are also an increasing problem on motorways and strategic roads operated nationwide by Highways England. A Freedom of Information inquiry in December revealed that Highways England repaired 22,862 potholes in 2018, up from 14,104 in 2017. It also showed that the amount of compensation paid following damage report claims rose spectacularly, from £81,500 in 2017 to £329,379.

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