Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad, assumed the presidency of the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM) on 1 July 2026. His mandate runs for two years, and he succeeds Michele Colaninno in the role.

The election took place during ACEM’s General Assembly at BMW Welt in Munich. The association’s Presidium also includes Vice-President Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding; Vice-President Clément Villet, Director of Land Mobility at Yamaha Motor Europe N.V.; and Vice-President Michele Colaninno, CEO of Piaggio Group.

A wider mobility debate

ACEM’s stated priorities extend beyond motorcycles alone. In its terminology, L-category vehicles include mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles. The association says it wants these vehicles integrated into sustainable urban mobility concepts across Europe, while advancing the industry’s decarbonisation agenda and protecting its industrial competitiveness.

ACEM also says it intends to promote motorcycling in leisure, touring and sport as a contributor to economic growth and societal value. Its regulatory focus is an environment that supports innovation and investment, maintains technology neutrality and reflects customer needs.

Flasch said L-category vehicles are part of the solution to Europe’s current mobility challenges. He also said the industry should pursue sustainability while keeping riding accessible, safe and enjoyable. Antonio Perlot, ACEM’s Secretary General, said the association would continue engaging with policy-makers about the benefits of L-category vehicles to society.

The new presidency therefore places ACEM’s existing priorities under the leadership of a major motorcycle manufacturer’s chief executive. it sets out the policy areas the association says it will address.