International Dealer News IDN 138 August/September 2017

COMMENT: United Colours of Ducati? ........................................................................................................ Page 4 Motorcycle Registrations disappointing in most markets for first half or 2017 ............................ Page 6-9 Harley-Davidson Q2 sales plummet in U.S.A ...................................................................................................................................... Page 10 MV Agusta concludes new refinancing deal at last ........................................................................................................................ Page 13 AIMExpo to feature most OEM exhibitors and over 300 leading aftermarket players s this edition of IDN is published, there are just six weeks until opening day of the landmark fifth year of the American International Motorcycle Expo presented by Nationwide (AIMExpo), and the industry’s premier motorcycle and powersports show will welcome a record number of exhibiting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in its debut at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Ohio from September 21-24. In total 24 OEMs have signed on to take advantage of AIMExpo’s multifaceted, all-in-one platform, setting the stage for the most wide ranging showcase of new vehicles in the event’s young history. “The move to Columbus puts the show floor in great proximity to the country’s retailers as well as a high concentration of the population of powersports users. “The extensive street demo-ride offerings at AIMExpo Outdoors! from a record nine different OEMs will give attendees the opportunity to experience the latest products for themselves.” Adding to the extensive list of vehicle companies showcasing new and unique products are 47 Moto, American Landmaster, American Lifan, BV Powersports, CFMOTO, Cub Cadet, Doohan, HiSUN, Ice Bear, Jinling International Inc., Tacita, Textron Off- Road and Torrot GasGas. The diverse range of products from this impressive A collection of manufacturers will initially be unveiled during the two trade days of the show (September 21 & 22) before being put on display for the general public to view and experience for the very first time throughout the weekend (September 23 & 24). In addition to what is an unprecedented line-up of new vehicles Larry Little, Vice President & General Manager and organizer MIC Events: “Some 41% of powersports dealers and 50% of the US population reside within 500 miles of AIMExpo’s new location in the city of Columbus” for a motorcycle and wider powersports industry expo of any kind in North American terms, an impressive assortment of aftermarket companies will also be present on the exhibitor floor to unveil new products that will “complement and personalise the variety of new models on display, from performance and safety enhancements to innovative modes of communication while on the road, in the dirt, or on the water.” The show floor was nearly 95% sold out already, and any European companies still considering exhibiting at AIMExpo presented by Nationwide NEws ROOM 6-17, 48 are advised to contact the organising team without delay. Notable European aftermarket vendors confirmed already include Akrapovic, Puig/Motoplastic, Avon Tyres, Andreani Group, Beringer Brakes, Arrow Special Parts, Continental Tire, Polisport (proud winners of a Red Dot Design Award this year), R&G, Ariete, Frenotecnica, Malossi, EBC Brakes, Mitas, HEL, Givi, PROX Racing Parts, Heidenau, Polini, Motorex (who are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year), SW- Motech, NEXX, Ohlins, UFO Plast, Cellular Italia, OptiMate, Wind Trading and Oxford Products. The appearance of so many OEs is thought certain to deliver a record consumer attendance for an event that is unique in North American motorcycle and powersports industry terms combining, as it does, consumer attendance with two dealer/industry specific days (September 21 & 22) in a first ever use of what is regarded in the United States as very much a European expo formula. Dealer attendance is also likely to be at record levels too as Columbus is ideally located – as Larry Little, Vice President & General Manager of organiser MIC Events told IDN Magazine when we spoke with him in June, “some 41% of powersports dealers and 50% of the US population reside within 500 miles of the city of Columbus. This central location and ease of access offers all attendees the opportunity to engage with America’s motorcycle and powersports industry like never before.” TRADEZONE 45 AUG/SEPT 2017 ISSUE #138 STATZONE 6-9 ‡ ROADTRIP HYPERPRO BMW ESA SHOCKS UPGRADE PROMOTION INDEX 46