Despite the automotive industry’s broader shift toward electric vehicles, the internal combustion engine remains a dominant force in the motorcycle world. Recent debuts at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan demonstrate a continued demand for gasoline-powered bikes, with manufacturers showcasing a range of new and updated models. This signals a resilience in the market driven by enthusiasts who prioritize the performance and experience offered by conventional engines, alongside ongoing innovation in rider-assist technologies and evolving segment preferences.
New Motorcycle Models Signal Resilience in Internal Combustion Engine Market
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Despite the growing push for electric vehicles, demand for traditional gasoline-powered motorcycles remains strong, with manufacturers debuting a range of new models at the recent EICMA show. This suggests a continued preference for the experience and performance offered by internal combustion engines among motorcycle enthusiasts.
While electric options are largely seen as suitable for urban commuting, the motorcycle community largely views them as recreational vehicles, favoring the thrill associated with gasoline-powered bikes. This trend was evident at the EICMA exhibition, a key event for the motorcycle industry.
“Of course, the show featured many electrified vehicles, but these were primarily models geared towards convenient city transportation,” said a journalist recently returned from the event. “For those enthusiasts disappointed by the automotive industry’s increasing focus on electrification, now is a good time to pursue an A-category motorcycle license, as manufacturers have unveiled several exciting new offerings.”
© CFMoto 450MT motorcycle (Manufacturer photo)
MV Agusta showcased its new Brutale model, boasting a 931cc, three-cylinder engine capable of producing 148 horsepower. CFMOTO is making a move into the Superbike category with the V4 SR-RR prototype, featuring a 1-liter, 210-horsepower V4 engine and active aerodynamics. Honda presented the V3R 900 E-Compressor prototype – the first motorcycle equipped with an electrically driven compressor to boost power to its three-cylinder engine.
However, not all motorcycle classes are seeing increases in engine size and power. The Adventure category is experiencing a trend towards smaller displacement engines.
CFMOTO initiated this trend two years ago with the introduction of the 450MT model, which proved so popular that it remains in short supply. Premium manufacturers are now following suit, with BMW’s large and powerful GS series of adventure bikes being supplemented by the smaller-displacement, two-cylinder 450 GS.
© Justas Lengvinas (Personal archive photo)
“This is a new trend,” explained the journalist. “People are realizing that for touring, especially if not on highways, you don’t need a lot of horsepower, but rather lightness and comfort.”
Building on its reputation for lightweight Adventure motorcycles, CFMOTO is expanding into the higher-performance segment, unveiling the 1000MT-X model at EICMA. Weighing nearly 200 kg and powered by a 1-liter, two-cylinder engine producing 111 horsepower, the motorcycle features adjustable KYB suspension, Brembo brakes, and a fully adjustable Bosch computer system. The 1000MT-X is expected to arrive in the Lithuanian market in the second half of next year.
Advancements in Rider-Assist Technologies
A review of the show’s debuts reveals significant technological advancements in the motorcycle industry, demonstrating a commitment to innovation. CFMOTO exemplifies this progress; electronically adjustable suspension, previously exclusive to premium brands like BMW and Ducati, is now available on CFMOTO models.
The organizer of the “Motorcycle of the Year” competition noted that while no revolution is occurring in the motorcycle market, continuous evolution and natural progress are ongoing.
“New motorcycles have better suspension, are lighter, and offer more comfortable seats. But technology is now dominating: we’re seeing automatic LED headlights and adaptive cruise control systems,” he said.
For example, BMW’s GS 1300 model features adjustable-height suspension, which greatly assists in positioning the motorcycle on its center stand. This traditionally requires significant effort with larger motorcycles, but BMW’s system automatically raises the rear wheel with minimal force when the center stand is engaged.
CFMOTO Leads Innovation in the ATV Market
The ATV segment also had a presence at the show, though it showed a relative lack of innovation. CFMOTO is driving progress in this market, currently holding the leading position in global sales.
© Updated CFMoto ATVs presented at EICMA (Manufacturer photo)
The company unveiled its fourth-generation ATV range with a completely new design and showcased prototypes featuring hydraulically adjustable suspension, four-wheel steering, and disengageable stabilizers.
CFMOTO has also programmed electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and hill-descent control systems into its ATVs.
Company representatives announced that the fourth-generation CFMOTO ATVs, incorporating the new design and some of the technologies presented at EICMA, are expected to be available in Lithuania by the end of 2026, starting with the C6 series, which features 600cc engines.
