Author: Andreas Denner

Norton is breaking new ground with the Manx, consistently developing it into a road-oriented naked bike. The focus is on torque-oriented power delivery, reduced design, and clear practicality.

In the state of Washington, there are renewed discussions about changing the traffic rules for motorcycles. A draft bill proposes allowing motorcycles to temporarily use the right-hand shoulder in traffic jams.

After two difficult years without any notable results, David Datzer wants to compete again in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy in 2026. The German is returning with a new team, clear goals, and cautious optimism.

The next generation of the KTM 790 Duke has once again been spotted during test drives outside Europe. Recent spy photos show significant design changes and, for the first time, in-house WP brake calipers on the front and rear wheels.

Starting in the 2025 season, motorcycles will no longer be allowed to participate in tourist drives on the Nordschleife. Opposition to this decision by the operating company is now forming in the form of a petition and possible legal action.

The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme is making its racing history permanently accessible to the public for the first time. The FIM Racing Motorcycle Museum in Switzerland will open its doors to visitors on February 18.

After a difficult performance at the official MotoGP preseason test in Sepang, Yamaha has come to a mixed conclusion. The new V4 motorcycle shows progress in terms of handling, but still has significant room for improvement in terms of engine performance.

The European Union is once again discussing mandatory periodic technical inspections for all motorcycles. Representatives of motorcyclist organizations point to accident statistics that call into question the safety benefits of such inspections.

MANNOL has expanded its global lubricant production to more than one million liters per day. New and expanded plants in Lithuania and the United Arab Emirates form the basis for further international growth.

With the OMT 450c, a Swiss engineering company presents an uncompromising flat track racing motorcycle that features a variably adjustable carbon frame. The approach is clearly aimed at racing and is set to prove itself in the Flat Track World Championship from 2026.

Zero Motorcycles has initiated a safety recall for several electric motorcycles. The cause is a potentially twisted brake line on the front brake, which can lead to a loss of brake pressure.

Suzuki is expanding its range in Austria for the 2026 season with four special editions, some of which are available in very limited numbers. These include the GSX-8S, the V-Strom 800, and the DR-Z4SM, each of which is available with special designs or additional features.

Paaschburg & Wunderlich is restructuring its management team in Germany. Axel Giesen, an industry expert, is taking over responsibility for strategy and growth in the German market.

The European Union and India have concluded negotiations on a comprehensive free trade agreement. For the motorcycle industry, the gradual reduction of extremely high import tariffs could bring about noticeable changes in production, prices, and market strategies.

The final MotoGP test of 2026 in Sepang provides initial indications of the balance between Ducati, Aprilia, and their pursuers. Alex Marquez, Ducati, and Yamaha are particularly in focus after three intense days.

Motorcycle accessories retailer Polo Motorrad & Sportswear is continuing its restructuring under the protection of self-administration. At the same time, a structured investor process is underway, which is expected to be completed by the end of March 2026.

Indian electric motorcycle manufacturer Ultraviolette has unveiled Violette A.I., a voice-controlled AI assistant designed to simplify the operation of its models. The system was presented at CES 2026 in Las Vegas in collaboration with SoundHound AI.

MotoGP has published its test calendar for 2026, creating conditions for the first time that are clearly aimed at the 2027 rule revolution. At the same time, injuries and unresolved contract issues are shaping the sporting situation ahead of the start of the season.

TVS has filed a design patent in India for the RTR HyprStunt stunt bike concept. The application is fueling speculation that the study could eventually lead to a street-legal naked bike.

The second day of the official 2026 MotoGP test in Sepang was overshadowed by a major setback for Yamaha. While Honda attracted attention with a fastest lap time, the other manufacturers worked on the basics rather than fast laps in what were sometimes difficult conditions.