Making our way through the list of 2018 World Cup countries, we now find ourselves in round 5 of this adventure. We’ll take on Iceland, Iran, and the motorcycle powerhouse..Japan. Shall we begin
IRAN.
An under matched and outdated player. Up until just a few years ago, brands produced here were largely 2-Stroke and carb’d machines. (insert old bike post here ) Old technology never puts anyone in the lead. However, progress is progress. They, like much of the world are focusing on economical and green modes of transportation. Electric power and small CC imported bikes have taken off. We’ll see Iran continue to evolve Keep an eye on them.
ICELAND.
Be aware, the viking can be a beast. Challenging terrain, less than ideal riding weather. One guess as to what motorcycle you might be on if journeying across Iceland. ADVENTURE BIKES. Big, brutish, and capable. This is not one of the global motorcycle leaders, but their practice fields will test even the most worthy opponent.
JAPAN.
No match up of global motorcycle matchup would be complete without taking a peak at Japan. Japanese motorcycles account for 50% of the market share. Much like BCS Football teams like their players from Texas, global motorcycle dominance is held in one place. Japan. Given the dominance that has been shown, this player may not be able to hold its ground over the years to come. The motorcycle industry is evolving and there may likely be less screaming Ninja’s and R1s on the road in a few years. But for the 2018 match up, Japan and motorcycles go hand in hand. Here is a great summary on the future of Japanese motorcycles. https://motorbikewriter.com/bleak-future-japanese-motorcycles/
Keep riding, wherever you are and wherever the road takes you.