The 10 millionth Minarelli engine leaves the factory in Calderara di Reno. Minarelli is the powerhouse for Yamaha's European fleet and continues to supply third-party customers.

KTM North America is relocating its headquarters from Amherst, Ohio, to Murrietta, California, to be closer to the heart of the US motocross industry. Amherst will remain the headquarters of KTM East and will organize logistics in the east.

Suzuki discontinued the development and sale of the two-stroke models in the RM series in order to focus entirely on the RM-Z four-stroke models (RM-Z 250 and RM-Z 450). Remaining stock was sold off in some markets until 2009/2010, but the 2008 model year marks the technical end of the line.

The Aspes trademark rights are acquired by Menzaghi Motors of Varese with the aim of reviving the brand with modern scooters and enduro bikes (some based on Asian models).