Motorcycle combinations have taken on a new meaning after Suzuki Motor and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, two of Japan's "big four" motorcycle manufacturers, said yesterday they would join forces in an effort to revive declining sales in Asia, the US and Europe.

The alliance the first in the Japanese motorcycle industry will come as a shock to their loyal followers. The big four have traditionally been fierce rivals on the racetracks and streets, with faithful fans scorning rival makes.

Suzuki and Kawasaki, the third- and fourth-largest of the big four after Honda and Yamaha, said they would jointly develop new models and unify parts procurement and production to cut costs.