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NEWS
BRIEFS
Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto has completed the acquisition of a 51 % stake in the Bavaria, Germany based racing chassis and frame manufacturer Kalex Engineering, becoming the company ' s controlling shareholder( December 2025). The transaction was carried out through CF Moto ' s European subsidiary Helmsmen Europe. Kalex founders Alex Baumgaertel and Klaus Hirsekorn have retained the remaining 49 % stake. Kalex has a leading position within the MotoGP racing ecosystem, being especially dominant in the Moto2 class. Observers are saying that the acquisition is a significant step in CFMoto ' s strategy to deepen its involvement in top-tier international motorcycle racing.
Established in 1980, German motorcycle P & A / G & A retailer Polo Motorrad und Sportswear GmbH( better known simply as POLO Motorrad) filed for selfadministration proceedings November 18, 2025.
Ducati closed 2025 with 50,895 motorcycles delivered worldwide(-7 %). Limited availability of the Monster, Hypermotard, and DesertX, linked to the process of complying with the European Euro 5 + emissions regulations held unit sales back. In terms of volumes, Italy continues to be Ducati ' s leading market, with a total of 8,803 motorcycles delivered(-8 %). The United States ranks second with 7,268 units(+ 4 %), followed by Germany, the third market with 5,759 motorcycles delivered(-12 %). Among the European markets Spain saw a + 15 % increase, along with Austria + 14 %. Japan posted a double-digit increase of + 11 %. In China, Ducati closed the year with a 31 % decline compared to 2024, continuing a negative trend after a 26 % decline in the previous year. The Multistrada, in all its versions, remained the most popular motorcycle family among Ducatisti enthusiasts in 2025, with 13,873 units delivered globally. The Panigale family followed, with 10,606 motorcycles delivered, while the Scrambler family recorded 5,814 units.
MadStad Engineering abruptly ceased trading and closed down at the end of September 2025. The closure by the Florida-based manufacturer of adjustable motorcycle windshields was so abrupt that it reportedly left customers with unfulfilled orders and employees without notice.
Avon Cobra Chrome Whitewalls
Avon Tyres says it has " reclaimed its whitewall heritage " and that with full there is to be a full renewal of Cobra Chrome production following completion of a " full redevelopment of its iconic Cobra Chrome range." The revival of its " whitewall heritage " represents what will no doubt be a popular come back of one of the Avon brand ' s most recognisable motorcycle tires. The move comes four years after Avon was integrated into Goodyear ' s motorcycle brand portfolio alongside Dunlop. " Cobra Chrome is positioned as Avon ' s flagship product for cruiser and custom motorcycles, and plays a central role in its renewed product strategy. The range is now offered in 77 SKUs, including 14
Dmitri Talboom, Motorcycle Product Manager
sizes featuring the characteristic white sidewall design that has long been associated with Avon ' s heritage in the custom and classic motorcycle sectors. " The redevelopment of the Cobra Chrome range follows a wide-ranging industrial upgrade programme across Avon ' s entire motorcycle business. " As part of this, the manufacturing of
Oreland, Pennsylvania based NAMZ Custom Cycle Products has hired Giselle Allison as new Senior Sales and Marketing Manager. According to founder and CEO Jeff Zielinski she " brings over 8-yeas of industry experience and a proven track record of success in driving sales growth, marketing expertise, and elevating brand awareness." Having previously worked as a contractor with NAMZ over the past year, " Giselle is well-versed in the company’ s products and customer base. In her new role, Giselle will be
Avon ' s premium motorcycle tires has gradually transitioned to Goodyear ' s state-of-the-art motorcycle centre of excellence in Montlucon, France- a site already renowned in the motorcycle industry for producing Dunlop ' s premium road tires and championship winning racing products." To enable Cobra Chrome production at Montlucon, manufacturing processes had to be tailored to the new facility. Many of the Cobra Chrome sizes were new to the French site with extensive re-engineering required. " This work has resulted in improved tire uniformity, higher yields, better operator ergonomics and production quality that is fully aligned with Goodyear manufacturing processes." Dmitri Talboom, Motorcycle Product Manager, Goodyear, explains: " To bring Avon production in line with Goodyear ' s quality and performance standards, the Cobra Chrome range has been extensively re-engineered. Montlucon ' s role in this revival has been crucial." The return of Cobra Chrome ' s whitewall SKUs presented unique technical considerations for the Montlucon factory. The white rubber
NAMZ- New Sales and Marketing Manager
responsible for leading sales and marketing initiatives, fostering strong relationships with distributors, supporting dealers and retail sales while developing new strategies to continue to grow NAMZ ' s presence in the global market. " We are thrilled to welcome Giselle to the team," said Jeff. " Her extensive experience and deep understanding of our products and customers will be instrumental as we continue to expand our reach and enhance our product offerings in the motorcycle industry." www. namzccp. com
compound has been reformulated to improve resistance to discoloration, while the sidewall assembly process has evolved from a largely manual operation to one that is more automated. Computer-assisted quality checks have also been introduced to better ensure a premium finish. Talboom added: " Whitewall tires are a defining element of Avon ' s heritage and remain a distinctive choice for riders of custom and cruiser-style motorcycles. We are proud to see this iconic design back in full production." Avon Cobra Chrome now sits within a more streamlined Avon motorcycle range that also includes the 3D Supersport hypersport tire, Spirit ST and Roadrider MKII tires for sport-touring applications, Trailrider and Trekrider products for adventure use, and the classic Safety Mileage MKII and Speedmaster MKII products. Cobra Chrome will be available in 77 front and rear sizes in 2026, covering 15-23-inch fitments, including 14 sizes with a white sidewall design. The majority of sizes are on sale now, with the remainder being released during 2026. www. avontyres. com
10 AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE DEALER- APRIL 2026 www. AMDmag. com