Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle – American Racing Operations 

Racing has always been core to the meaning and heritage of the Indian Motorcycle Brand, from the original Board Tracks and Wrecking Crew through to the FTR750. Now, their near total domination of the Kind Of The Baggers series with the Indian Challenger, Indian's newfound independence after the Polaris sell-off means new opportunities.

The formation of a formalised Race Department – Indian's American Racing Operations (ARO - pronounced 'arrow') is an all-new performance division (announced in May 2026) to represent Indian Motorcycle's "commitment to developing integrated performance solutions inspired by its rich racing heritage."

"Our brand was founded by two racers who built a legacy pushing performance and driving American motorcycle innovation literally through racing," said Mike Kennedy, CEO of Indian Motorcycle. "As stewards of Indian Motorcycle's 125-year history, we're proud to continue this legacy of innovation with our new race-inspired, factory-backed performance halo brand. ARO represents our commitment to performance, authenticity, and the continued evolution of American motorcycling, driven by and inspired by our historic investment in racing." 

Kennedy went on to say that ARO had been created to "push Indian Motorcycle forward through a comprehensive portfolio of performance parts, accessories, future technologies and rider-focused solutions." 

As the performance division of Indian Motorcycle, ARO will develop factory-backed performance solutions inspired by 125 years of American motorcycle innovation and competition, giving riders a seamless path to elevate power, handling, sound and the overall riding experience."

The announcement also included the debut of an all-new dual slip-on exhaust system for select bagger and touring models. The ARO GP Slip-On Exhaust was designed by Vance & Hines Factory Indian Motorcycle race team principal, Terry Vance. "Pulling design inspiration from road racing, the ARO GP Slip-On Exhaust features exhaust screens similar to those common with international road racing bikes."

The new ARO GP Slip-On Exhaust has been run on Indian's KOTB race bikes and is said to "elevate the dynamic voice of PowerPlus with a precision-tuned sound, highlighted by a deep, low-frequency exhaust note at idle and low RPM, before transitioning into a broad, high-output tone under acceleration and elevated engine speeds."

Kennedy went on to say that he had been "running a prototype on my own Indian Challenger since Daytona, and I can say wholeheartedly that it sounds absolutely amazing and truly elevates the experience of riding an Indian PowerPlus bagger."

Rooted in Indian Motorcycle's extensive racing heritage and its championship-winning MotoAmerica King of the Baggers Factory Racing Team, ARO components are engineered to meet rigorous performance and reliability standards "for riders seeking the ultimate in American V-Twin performance. ARO represents a growing portfolio of premium components and accessories engineered to enhance power, sound, and style. 

"While select products will be directly derived from Indian Motorcycle's King of the Baggers race program, including exhaust systems, air intakes, and performance hard parts, the broader ARO lineup draws inspiration from the spirit of innovation and competition that has defined Indian Motorcycle for 125 years." The ARO GP Slip-On is slated to retail for $799.99. 

Feuling Parts

Feuling - Increased Airflow and Oil Pressure Options

California based Feuling Parts has added a new top filter cover insert for its BA Air Cleaner line-up for clear cover models.

"Squeeze some more air flow out of your BA Air Cleaner in high performance applications with our pre-oiled and washable insert." Available in Red or Black, it fits all BA Air Cleaners with 4" Inside diameter see-through outer covers. 

The filter, lube, Loctite, and gasket are all included and Feuling say to contact them if you have an earlier 3.8" inside diameter see-through cover.

Also seen here, the "competitively priced" OE+ product line is an upgraded alternative to stock components. "Designed to work with the factory camplate or our FEULING OE+ camplate (#8037), our OE+ stock replacement billet oil pumps deliver increased oil pressure and return scavenge volumes over the factory oil pumps. 

"Using larger gerotors and properly sized passages, they are a great, cost-effective fix for the problematic 2017-2019 oil pumps and an upgrade for 2020+ models. They will also increase the oil pressure by using a precision machined pressure relief valve which is seated and sealed to a minimum of 30 psi with full pop off at 55-65 psi.

"As with all FEULING products, the 6061 billet aluminum OE+ Oil Pumps are designed and manufactured to the highest standard of quality with proven FEULING performance. For higher performance engines see our HP+ Series #7196 or Race Series #7197."

As a stock replacement they increase oil pressure in larger 2.00 and 2.25 scavenge gerotors in M8 '17-'26 models using OEM or the #8037 FEULING OE+ Camplate.

FEULING PARTS

www.feulingparts.com

Darkhorse Motor Company

Darkhorse M8 Oil Pan Service Kit

Addison Dahmer of Darkhorse Motor Company (Wisconsin) sent us news about a new DHC-OPS Oil Pan Service System kit for the OEM M8 Oil Pan.

"Previously, builders have been forced to work around the fixed plastic baffling inside the OEM M8 oil pan. This design traps debris, hides contamination, and prevents a builder from ever truly knowing whether the pan is clean.

"That uncertainty is unacceptable in new engine builds. A single piece of trapped sludge or metallic particulate can compromise thousands of dollars in components. We here at Darkhorse Motor Company have the solution."

With its in-house CNC capabilities, Darkhorse has engineered a dedicated service kit - the DHC-OPS Oil Pan Service System - engineered to remove the OEM baffling, allow full access for cleaning in an economical method that gives technicians complete confidence in the cleanliness of the oil pan throughout the entire life of the motorcycle.

"Replacing the oil pan has traditionally been the safest option to eliminate contamination risk. Even routine maintenance can leave behind sludge that won't drain during an oil change and may later break loose, re-entering the engine. With the DHC-OPS system, shops can fully clean and reuse the pan not once, but indefinitely."

Darkhorse's solution arrives at a fraction of the cost of a new Harley-Davidson OEM oil pan with a five-business-day turnaround.

DARKHORSE MOTOR COMPANY

www.darkhorsemoco.com

Progressive Suspension

Progressive - 494 Sport Series Shocks

Progressive Suspension has added a new Sport Series shock absorber - the 494 - featuring a high-pressure monotube with lightweight aluminum body, deflective disc damping technology, hand threaded preload "and a rebound adjustment to dial in the ride." 

"Coupled with a progressive rate spring, this technology allows for a consistent performing shock in a variety of real-world scenarios. An engineered jounce bumper with a built-in metal cup also helps smooth out and control bottoming.

"From pounding pavement around town to hammering around the tarmac on your next race day, the 494 is the perfect choice for your performance suspension demands. Every shock is hand-built, tuned and dyno tested and sold with a Lifetime Limited Warranty."

Additional features include a lightweight aluminum body, hand adjusted preload, progressive rate coil springs. The 494 is available as Standard or Heavy Duty.

PROGRESSIVE SUSPENSION

www.progressivesuspension.com

Burly Brand

Burly Brand - MX Evo Floorboards

California based Burly Brand says that its MX-Evo product family "pays homage to the iconic motocross aesthetic of the 1970's with a twist of modern ingenuity.

"From legacy to evolution, meet Burly Brand's MX-Evolution product line. Designed for wild spirits, thrill-seekers and everyday enthusiasts, every product in the range is crafted with precision CNC machining, with a rugged, square design that shouts quality, durability and reliability.

"The Burly Brand logo is laser engraved in meticulous detail and whether pushing stunts or carving through the scenic backroads, Burly Brand MX Evo Floorboards, Mini-Floorboards, Footpegs and Toe Pegs are a great addition - either singly or as a matching kit."

Crafted from lightweight, high-quality aluminum alloy for optimal performance and CNC machined to precision, ensuring durability and a sleek finish, the square shape gives a modern twist on the classic motocross aesthetic.

The matching MX-Evo Mini-Floorboards are a direct, scaled-down version "for these who want maximum attitude in a compact design - for maximum traction in all riding conditions they are compact and purpose built". They are available for M8 Softail (Rider), Dyna and Sportster.

BURLY BRAND

www.burlybrand.com

Cardo Systems

Cardo BEYOND - Carbon Full-Face with Integrated Comms

Cardo Systems has launched BEYOND GTS and BEYOND GT, the brand's first-ever DOT and ECE 22.06 certified fully integrated motorcycle helmets. 

The BEYOND line of helmets "deliver the convergence of two decades of innovation in rider connectivity and four years of R&D, focused on creating the most advanced integrated helmet on the market. More than just a helmet, Cardo BEYOND delivers a new generation riding companion engineered to protect, connect and elevate every ride."

BEYOND GTS

Cardo claims that the BEYOND helmets debuts the world's first 53 mm helmet speakers, "precision tuned by Cardo Sound Labs for unmatched clarity and power".

BEYOND GTS features a lightweight carbon fibre shell paired with a multi-density EPS liner, extensive wind-tunnel-tested aerodynamics and a precision ventilation system that reduces fatigue and keeps visibility clear in any weather.

The big news though is the "powerful communications suite" built into the helmet, with "Cardo's Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) technology, 2 km intercom range, Bluetooth integration, and hands-free voice control and integrated Crash Detection alert function.

Additional rider-centric enhancements include retractable sun visor, Auto On/Off functionality, replaceable battery and serviceable components, upgradeable tech package, moisture-wicking premium fabrics, motorcycle specific Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, a 1000mA battery and Pinlock 120XLT anti-fog lens.

BEYOND GT

The BEYOND GT maintains most of the same or similar features and tech but in a lightweight fibreglass shell equipped with a rear reflector for enhanced visibility. BEYOND GT retains compatibility with comfort padding for long-lasting rideability. It's a "smart choice for riders who want the full experience of integrated safety and communication without compromise".

The BEYOND GTS and GT are slated to be available in summer 2026.

CARDO SYSTEMS

www.cardosystems.com

Feuling

C.A.R.B. Approved M8 Gen 2 BA Air Cleaner

More news from Feuling about its C.A.R.B. Approved M8 Gen 2 BA Air Cleaner. With the introduction of the new "Gen-2" Milwaukee Eight engines came an updated intake manifold location, which means an updated air cleaner backing plate for Feuling's BA Air Cleaners.  

The updated backing plate for the new Gen 2 Milwaukee Eights feature an "upsweep" design to account for the new intake location, leaving a clean and sleek air cleaner fitment without sacrificing performance. 

"With years of experience designing improved and patented cylinder heads, combustion chambers and intake manifolds, Feuling brings light to a new bolt-on air cleaner design for Harley-Davidson motorcycles."

The Feuling BA Air Cleaner with velocity stack design lengthens the intake runners and increases air velocity – "delivering added volume for balanced dynamic flow. Gen-2 BA Air Cleaner Kits are now 50-state legal, C.A.R.B. approved (C.A.R.B. EO #D-881-3)."

The BA Air Cleaner features a highflow billet aluminum velocity stack with optimal opening diameter, outer lip and internal diameter (ID) taper. The BA Air Cleaner includes a highflow reusable air filter and one piece billet cage. "The one piece design, creates a clean look and eases installation when compared to the industry standard multi stack up construction."

Fitments: '23-'26 GEN-2/center cooled M8s.

FEULING PARTS

www.feulingparts.com

Indian Rider's Fest & Budweis Custom Sho

125 Years of Indian Motorcycles

Indian Rider's Fest & Budweis Custom Show

Lake Lipno, Czechia, June 18-21, 2026

The 125th anniversary of the Indian Motorcycle brand was celebrated on a grand scale in Europe - at Lipno nad Vltavou, in the beautiful countryside of historic Bohemia in the south of the Czech Republic. More than 5,000 Indian enthusiasts from Europe and beyond gathered to celebrate Indian's 125th anniversary at the 10th annual Indian Rider's Fest …

Recognized worldwide as the largest annual gathering of Indian Motorcycle enthusiasts, thousands made the journey to central Europe in June 2026 to celebrate the brand's 125th anniversary.

Best of Show was the 'Top Mountain Museum' tribute bike of the twins Attila and Alban Scheiber.

Founded in 1901 by George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom, 'Indianistas' came from all over Europe and as far away as Oman, Kuwait, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and even The United States to celebrate the history, culture and motorcycles - old and new - of one of the global motorcycle industry's most storied brands.

The guest list included Indian Motorcycle management, led by their CEO Mike Kennedy, and legendary customiser Ola Stenegärd (Director of Product Design for Indian Motorcycle) at the Indian Riders Fest in Lipno nad Vltavou, Czech Republic, from June 18-21, 2026. 

Stenegärd, himself a former competitor in the AMD European Championship of Custom Bike Building 'back in the day', attended the festival as the Jury President for the 5th Anniversary Budweis Custom Show (BCS - an AMD world Championship 'Approved' custom Bike Show) and the only known international custom show globally dedicated exclusively to Indian Motorcycles.

Great weather, beautiful riding country and exquisite examples of Indian design covering all generations and iterations of the brand's history provided the perfect lifestyle-oriented backdrop to "what it's all about" - riding!

Lottery draw for a brand-new Vintage Chief customized by Indian Hannover.

The Indian Riders Festival, including the Budweis Custom Show, was organized in Lipno for the second time in 2026, after having taken place in Budweis for years. The venue provides a magnificent location, on the lake front, with many apartments, hotels, riding routes and restaurants welcoming the many guests. Last year the event was split on two adjacent lots, but with that first experience at Lipno under their belt, 12 months later the organizers were able to bring it all together - focussing the bike show, merchandise tents, stunt shows, and various stands were all on a single site at the grounds surrounding the harbor and on the pier.

The Budweis Custom Show was set up under a large Bedouin tent, the renowned AMD Approved Indian Only Custom Bike Show, for which 26 top class motorcycles were selected. Next year it is planned to be able to increase that number and available space.

Led by Ola Stenegärd, it was a classic case of 'less being more' giving the jury a tough task to choose the winners from the selection, with only the first places in the five Indian specific classes, plus a best finish receiving winners, receiving recognition. The classes were Scout, Non Fairing, Touring (including Baggers), Clubstyle and Custom Paint. There was also a Public Choice award. The motorcycles were ridden onto the stage on Saturday afternoon during the awards ceremony. 

Vintage Indian Motorcycles from the new Top Mountain museum.

Best of Show was the 'Top Mountain Museum' tribute bike of the twins Attila and Alban Scheiber. They are the owners of the recently rebuilt motorcycle and classic car museum at the CrossPoint on the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road in Austria (2,175 m/6,500 ft altitude). A devasting fire in 2021 saw over 200 motorcycles destroyed, including many rare and historic Indians.

The brothers were able to reopen in just 10 months in a new 4,500 sq m (50,000 sq ft) custom designed and built facility that has been re-stocked with more than 500 collector loaned motorcycles - no small thing at over 6,000 ft in The Alps in such a short period of time.

Next to the Custom Bike Show there was a Top Mountain Museum exhibition. Together with Hans Devos, a very beautiful and varied selection of old Indians had been brought together, the oldest of which was a 'Camelback' from 1907. Hans Devos had brought along several unique old Indian racing motorcycles, including the Bigsby overhead valve conversion.

The main stage was busy with entertainment all weekend and additional attractions and activities included a spectacular 'Wall of Death' and a lottery draw for a brand-new Vintage Chief customized by Indian Hannover. It was won by Adrian, who came onto the stage completely overwhelmed and stunned, unable to believe he was the winner, and became so emotional that he spontaneously burst into tears! Adrian happened to be a resident of Lipno and was able to proudly ride through his own village on his custom Chief the following morning!

A highlight for many was the Parade, which this year, of course, sealed the celebration of 125 years of Indian - a massive route of 125 km - of course! (nearly 80 miles) - that led through the beautiful surroundings of Lipno and the Böhmerwald. Almost all of the two thousand Indians present rode along, resulting in an 18 km procession! 

Those interested could try out the latest Indians at the demo rides, and at exhaust manufacturer Jekill & Hyde, one could listen to the sound of their electronically adjustable exhausts. During the weekend, J&H and Indian announced that they are officially collaborating from now on.

The dates for next year's Indian Riders Fest/Budweis Custom Show have already been announced - from June 17-20, 2027, in Lipno, CZ! 

www.budweiscustom.show

www.Indianridersfest.eu