MKA Group Invests in Bitubo to Expand in Asia

MKA Group Invests in Bitubo to Expand in Asia

MKA Group, a Malaysian mobility group behind the RCB brand, has announced a strategic investment in Bitubo, an Italian premium motorcycle suspension manufacturer. The investment, announced on 10 September 2026, aims to expand Bitubo's global market presence, particularly in Asia, while preserving the brand's Italian engineering heritage and racing DNA. For Malaysian riders, this move signals increased access to premium aftermarket suspension technology, especially for European scooters like Vespa, through MKA Group's established regional distribution network.

Key Facts

What is Bitubo and Why is MKA Group Investing?

Bitubo is an Italian manufacturer of premium aftermarket and performance motorcycle suspension systems, founded in 1963 by the Mardolo family. The company has built a reputation over six decades through Italian engineering, technical innovation, and involvement in motorcycle racing. MKA Group's investment is intended to provide Bitubo with resources, international reach, and new opportunities to achieve greater global potential, with a specific focus on expanding into Asian markets.

According to the announcement, MKA Group's extensive distribution network and strong presence in the Asian market are key advantages. The collaboration aims to give Bitubo greater access to growing motorcycle markets, particularly in Asia, while continuing to serve existing customers in Europe and other global markets. "MKA Group is not merely adding another name to its portfolio; this investment combines Bitubo's Italian engineering expertise and racing history with MKA Group's network and global market experience."

Will Bitubo Remain an Italian Brand After the Investment?

Yes, Bitubo will remain an Italian brand. The investment from MKA Group does not change Bitubo's identity; all design, engineering, development, and production activities will continue to be conducted in Italy. MKA Group's role is to help expand the company's global reach and open doors to broader technological collaboration, not to alter its core operations.

Gianni Mardolo, General Manager of Bitubo, emphasised that the company will continue to adhere to its original identity built since 1963, including its engineering, technical expertise, and involvement in racing. This ensures that the brand's heritage and positioning as a premium suspension manufacturer remain intact. "Bitubo will continue to be Bitubo, with development, engineering, and production remaining in Italy, but now with greater support to grow to the next level."

How Will RCB and Bitubo Collaborate on Motorsport Expertise?

Both RCB and Bitubo have involvement in the world of racing, and MKA Group sees an opportunity for the two brands to share knowledge, technology, and racing experience. This collaboration is expected to accelerate the development of new products and improve product performance for riders. The investment is strategically positioned to leverage the combined motorsport expertise of both entities.

For Bitubo, the support from MKA Group is expected to accelerate its expansion in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and several other developing markets. The partnership is designed to create more opportunities for innovation and strengthen research and development (R&D) capabilities. "The collaboration between RCB and Bitubo is expected to accelerate the development of new products and enhance product performance for riders."

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

This investment is particularly relevant for Malaysian owners of European scooters, such as Vespa, and enthusiasts of premium motorcycle suspension systems. MKA Group's established presence in the Asian market, including Malaysia, is expected to improve the availability and accessibility of Bitubo's premium aftermarket suspension products for local riders seeking high-performance upgrades.

For Malaysian riders, this could mean better access to Bitubo's range of suspension products, which are known for their Italian engineering and racing pedigree. The collaboration may also lead to the development of new products tailored to the needs of riders in the region, potentially addressing local riding conditions and preferences. "This investment is expected to provide Malaysian riders with greater access to Bitubo's premium suspension technology through MKA Group's established regional distribution network."

Common Questions

What is the main purpose of MKA Group's investment in Bitubo?

The main purpose is to expand Bitubo's global market presence, with a specific focus on Asia. MKA Group aims to provide resources, international reach, and new opportunities to help Bitubo achieve greater potential while maintaining its Italian engineering heritage and racing DNA.

Will Bitubo's production move out of Italy?

No, Bitubo's production will remain in Italy. All design, engineering, development, and production activities will continue to be conducted in Italy, preserving the brand's original identity and engineering heritage.

What are the target markets for this expansion?

The target markets for expansion include Asia, particularly Southeast Asia and South Asia, as well as America and other developing markets. The collaboration aims to give Bitubo greater access to growing motorcycle markets while continuing to serve existing customers in Europe.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a single primary source: the original report by Firdaus Razani published on Careta, titled "MKA Group Labur Dalam Bitubo, Sasar Perluas Pasaran Ke Asia" (10 September 2026). The source material was translated from Malay to English, and all facts, quotes, and figures have been preserved from the original text. No additional statistics or data have been added beyond what was present in the source. Currency conversions were not required as the source did not specify financial amounts. This article was last updated on 10 September 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the original Careta article.