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Recent motorcycle news
There have been several recent news stories emerging in the world of motorcycles, from KTM's new RC line up to motorcycle safety improvements and Yamaha's 2013 sales report.
Yamaha 2013 sales report
The Japanese Yamaha Motor Company have revealed their 2013 sales report. The company shows a 1.2% decrease in motorcycle sales, at 6,014,000 from 2012's 6,090,000 sales. However there has been an increase in it's net sales revenue by 16.2%, in large due to the depreciation of the Japanese yen. The company's business has struggled in Europe due to the economic difficulties, selling only 162,000 in the European market compared to 2012's 165,000. In North America there has been an increase of sales from 71,000 to 76,000 and in Japan sales have also increased from 94,000 to 109,000 units. Yamaha predicts a 11.4% growth for 2014, counting on their new models such as the MT (FZ in the US).
The company has confirmed plans to launch the production versions of the Tricity three-wheeled scooter and R25 sportbike (likley to become the R£ in developed markets) later this year. Yamaha will also continue to develop it's MOTIV city car for further in the future.
KTM RC 390, RC 200 Mid 2014 launch
With Bajaj just unveiling the Pulsar SS 400 and CS 400, excitement around the bikes has been stupendous. However, KTM is about to change that. The motorcycle company will be launching it's RC 200 and RC 390 models sometime this year. The launch is set to take place globally before being followed by an Indian launch shortly after.
The RC series has been desperately awaited, particularly in India where there is a strong inclination towards fully faired motorcycles. The Duke 390 and 200 have been selling well but KTM could stand to gain more with the RC series. Following these two models will be a 500cc and 800cc parallel twin which will go into production in the next three years or so.
Canada's Saskatchewan gives green light to tougher rules for motorcycle riders
The Saskatchewan government is giving the green light to recommendations aimed at improving motorcycle safety. Changes will see new riders having to show that they can safely handle motorcycles before they can get their licences. People who want motorcycle learner's permits must first hold a Class 5 driver's licence, the standard for operating a vehicle.
Other changes are set to come in 2015, such as motorcycle rider and passengers wearing protective eye gear. Penalties will be made stiffer for all drivers and riders who make unsafe lane changes.
We'll keep you updated on any more motorcycle news in the future.