AFT

Daniels Wins Memphis Shades DuQuoin Mile 

DuQuoin State Fairgrounds, Illinois

R-8 July 05-07-25

Mission Supertwins

Dallas Daniels won the DuQuoin Mile by the narrowest of margins, official 0.037-second margin of victory following a hectic five-rider showdown to the very end. Riding the Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT, an early eight-rider scrap whittled down to six after a few minutes of fighting. 

It then took its final form of five - which included Daniels, title rival Briar Bauman (No. 3 RWR/Parts Plus/Latus Motors Harley-Davidson XG750R), James Ott (No. 19 G&G Racing Yamaha MT-07), Declan Bender (No. 70 Memphis Shades/Corbin/OTB Racing Yamaha MT-07), and Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) - after Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere's BMC Racing KTM 790 Duke) was forced out due to mechanical issues. 

Ott was eventually second, ahead of Bender in third, with Robinson fourth and Bauman fifth. It was an all Yamaha lock-out of Podium spots for the Yamahas with the two Harleys in fourth and fifth followed home by five more production bike brands, to make seven in the top ten in total - the Kawasaki Ninja 650 (Dalton Gaulthier) , KTM 790 Duke (Jared VanDerkooi), Honda Transalp (Trent Lowe), Suzuki GSX-8S (Dan Bromley)and Royal Enfield 650 of the Moto Anatomy X Royal Enfield team in tenth (Max Whale).

Picture from - AFT/Tim Lester

AFT Singles presented by KICKER 

In just over the span of a week, Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) took a protracted wins drought and vulnerable AFT Singles presented by KICKER championship position and transformed it into a three-race victory streak and a commanding 20-point advantage. 

The Australian did so in an intense Main Event that saw an eight-rider lead freight train storm past the checkered flag separated by a combined 0.342 seconds. As it went, the heated rivalry between Drane and Chase Saathoff (No. 88 RWR/Parts Plus Honda CRF450R) got that much hotter - Saathoff came up just 0.020 seconds in claiming second.

Eventual third-place finisher was Trevor Brunner (No. 21 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) with Hunter Bauer (No. 24 Vinson Construction/Reel Medics Yamaha YZ450F) fourth and Evan Renshaw (No. 65 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) fifth. 

There were two Yamaha Yz450F riders (Drane and Bauer); four Honda CRF450Rs (Saathoff, Brunner, Tarren Santero eighth and Jared Lowe ninth); two KTM 450 SX-Fs (Brandon Pfanders sixth and Tyler Raggio tenth) with two Husqvarna FC 450 badged KTM's in fifth (Evan Renshaw) and seventh (Chad Cose).

Next Up: The Lucas Oil Speedway hosts an AFT debut Short Track on July 18 (Wheatland, Mo.) before the series heads to the Black Hills of South Dakota. During the 75th Rally, production manufacturers will be competing for attention in the midst of a captive audience of some 500,000 or more riders. From a tentative single race first outing two years ago, Sturgis is now a three-race residency - two Jack Pine Short Tracks on August 4 and 5 (the August 5 race will feature a second outing for the AFT's Mission Triple Challenge format concept) before wrapping the Rally up with a downtown TT on August 10. 

Straight after Sturgis it's the Peoria TT in Illinois on August 16, then the Springfield Miles I & II on August 30 and 31( the August 30 Springfield Milke I will see the final of the three experiments the AFT has been trialling this year - the Mission Triple Challenge format concept) before the season finale, a Short Track at Ozark, Missouri on September 13. 

www.americanflattrack.com

News Briefs

BRP has reported fiscal year 2026 Q1 results with revenues of $1,846.9m, down by -7.7% compared to last year; net income of $161.0m, an increase of 278.8%; EBITDA of $200.8m, a decrease of 34.7%. Diluted EPS of $0.47 was a decrease of $1.11 per share, and diluted earnings per share of $2.19 was an increase of $1.63 per share, compared to last year. North American retail sales were flat compared to last year, resulting from strong end-of-season retail in Snowmobile, offset by a decrease in Year-Round Products retail mainly due to the industry's slowdown. BRP has agreed to sell Telwater Pty, Ltd. (Australia), and closed the sale of Alumacraft's assets.

The MRF reports that the US House of Representatives has passed two bills crafted to overturn regulations approved by the Biden Administration, allowing California to mandate more electric trucks and cars be sold in the state. "The bills received bipartisan support and will help to protect the internal combustion engine, a top legislative priority for the MRF."

The AMA has added three established racing series to its schedule - J Day Off Road in New York/New England, the Grassroots Off Road Series in Nevada, Idaho and Utah becomes a new AMA Featured Grand Prix Series and the 10-round plus Grand Prix event American Woods Racing Championship Series in Pennsylvania and Ohio all joining the AMA's racing slate this year.

Brembo has released Q1 results showing revenues at € 957m (approx $1,088m) down by -4.7% compared to Q1 2024. EBITDA was € 153.3m at a 16% margin; net profit was € 51.1m. Its net financial debt was € 778.6m, which was up by € 249.1m due to the € 362m Öhlins acquisition. Executive Chairman Matteo Tiraboschi: "Our Q1 results reflect an extremely challenging market context, as we had expected."

Shock absorber manufacturer Fox Factory Holding Corp. (NASDAQ:FOXF) has reported Q1 2025 net sales of $355m, up by $22m or 6.5% over prior year. Net sales increased over prior year across all segments, with Aftermarket Applications Group (AAG), which includes its aftermarket motorcycle shock absorber business, saw net sales up by $10.1m (+9.9%).

BRP

BRP Flagship Store

Canadian powersports vehicle manufacturer BRP Inc. has opened its first European flagship store in partnership with its new dealer, Canadian Motors. Located in the heart of Paris at 8 Boulevard du Montparnasse, the new store is set to offer "an innovative and immersive brand experience in an exclusive setting." 

It hosts the Corporation's Can-Am brand with its full range of on-road vehicles, namely the recently introduced Can-Am Pulse and Can-Am Origin electric motorcycles as well as Can-Am Canyon, the newest addition to Can-Am's three-wheel family.

This flagship store is the first one in Europe in BRP's 22-year history. Designed as a retail, experiential, and demo centre, the store is over 144 square metres. Canadian Motors already operates three motorcycle dealerships in France and has a strong experience of selling electric bikes. In addition, BRP will "support Canadian Motors with a diverse range of marketing activities, ultimately helping to bring more foot traffic in the door". BRP currently has a network of more than 450 dealers and distributors across the EMEA region.

www.brp.com

Tecmate

Pro Battery Care Redefined

Battery preparation can become a time-consuming hassle unless you have the right equipment readily available. That applies for new battery activation and recovery of batteries that may have been stored for a long time.

TecMate CEO/CTO Martin Human says that they "have the right, professional battery chargers that make it easy - guaranteeing that those new batteries will work right and last long."

The OptiMate PRO DUO series includes a 4-bank (4-station) and a single bank/station diagnostic battery charger. Both products are global use rated, accepting 100 - 240V 50-60Hz through an IEC-C8 socket that accepts an exchangeable IEC-C7 power cord. 

"The OptiMate PRO4-DUO (p/n: TM670) is the ideal new battery activator. Each of four stations deliver up to 5 amps, with current automatically regulated by the AmpMatic processor to match the selected battery chemistry and the battery's capacity, that is smaller batteries get less current, bigger batteries get more." 

There are three selections per station, Pb (lead) for all 12V lead-acid batteries including standard flooded and sealed (valve-regulating lead-acid) AGM and GEL batteries, LFP for all 12.8V 4-cell-in-series Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LiFePO4 / LiFe) and the 60' (sixty minutes) for quick activation of any power sport battery. 

'easy for dealers to save time and money'

"The 60' mode allows speedy activation of 'dry' charged AGM back to full charge before being fitted to a vehicle, or bring a factory activated AGM or LFP Li-Ion battery delivered at below 30% charge level (as mandated for shipping,) to full charge before fitment."  

A dead-flat powersport battery can be recovered and then tested, with result displayed on a 3- LED (red-yellow-green) panel.  Each station can save a 'dead flat' battery from as low as half a volt for Pb (lead-acid) and from zero volts for LFP (Lithium) - the LFP mode also includes a manually activated BMS reset to bring new smart lithium batteries out of sleep mode or reset the over-discharge protection and safely recharge the battery. 

"OptiMate PRO-1 DUO (p/n: TM650) is the ultimate technician's battery charger. With selection for Pb (lead-acid) and LFP (Lithium Ferrous Phosphate) batteries, it can activate or 'wake up' all new power-sport batteries or recover a neglected battery. 

"The powerful OptiMate PRO-1 DUO delivers up to 10 amps of charge to get even the biggest powersport battery ready quickly, but charges small batteries equally well as the AmpMatic processor automatically regulates charge rate to match battery size." 

A key feature is the PS (power-supply) mode that provides stable battery support at 13.6V to the vehicle's battery and system during diagnostic service or troubleshooting. A removable hanging hook allows for portable use at the vehicle, with the integrated rubber feet and side bumpers preventing damage to vehicle surfaces.

Martin says that "the OptiMate PRO DUO range has redefined professional battery care and makes it easy for dealers to save time and money."

TECMATE

www.tecmate.com

www.optimate1.com

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties - Additions

Short Lever Sets

Measuring 2.5" in length (which is 2.27" shorter than OEM levers) these Short Lever Sets feature die cast aluminum construction and are available in chrome or matte black. They are sold in pairs and include anti-rattle clip and clutch lever pivot bushings. Available for '14-'22 XL (except RH Sportster). 

Quick Connect Braided Upper Clutch Cables

Quickly and efficiently replace the OE upper clutch cable with this quick connect braided upper easily with its quick-connect OE lower clutch cable section fitment to significantly reduce installation time - and there is no need to drain the transmission fluid. Cables also come pre-lubricated for smooth, consistent long-lasting action. 

The design meets or exceeds the OE specifications, and the OE cable cover and housing can be re-used. They are available with stainless steel, black/chrome or black/black cable housing and fittings in stock cable lengths for 24 FLHX and 23-24 FLHXSE models. Replaces OEM# 37200574A

Drag Specialties Seats - Predator III Extended Reach 2-Up

For the driver, this seat extends the seating area back 2" and features a 6.5" tall driver support with a narrower design at the front for better leg clearance. For the passenger, the rear portion of the seat measures 9" wide and is contoured for maximum comfort. 

The 3/16" thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers protect the bike's paint. The seat fits with most Drag Specialties and H-D sissy bars. 

It is available in Smooth high-quality automotive-grade vinyl or Smooth solar-reflective leather for 23-24 FLHXSE, FLTRXSE and 24 FLHX FLTRX, FLTRXSTSE models. 

Adjustable Passenger Footpeg Mounts

These Drag Specialties Adjustable Passenger Footpeg Mounts are designed to fit existing passenger peg mounts and come with all necessary mounting hardware. Available in both chrome and gloss black finishes, they provide a sleek look to match any bike's style. 

The mounts are fully adjustable, allowing approximately 2" of movement up/down and fore/aft, ensuring a comfortable fit for almost any passenger. Available for H-D models with standard male-mount passenger footpegs (repl. OEM #50763-09).

Predator III 2-Up Seats 

These Predator III 2-up seats feature a 6.75" tall driver support with a narrower design at the front for better leg clearance. For the passenger, the rear portion of the seat measures 9" wide and is contoured for maximum comfort. The 3/16" thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers protects the bike's paint.

The seat fits with most Drag Specialties and H-D sissy bars.  It is available in Smooth high-quality automotive-grade vinyl or Smooth solar-reflective leather for 23-24 FLHXSE, FLTRXSE and 24 FLHX FLTRX, FLTRXSTSE models. 

Pan America Mechanical Clutch Lever and Brake Lever  

Featuring a lightweight aluminum construction, these Drag Specialties mechanical clutch and brake levers are direct replacements for stock levers for 21-24 RA1250/1250S models. They are available in a matte black finish; sold individually. 

High Efficiency One-Piece Clutch Cables 

The Drag Specialties High Efficiency (H.E.) Clutch cables have a low effort, maximum efficiency cable design that meets or exceeds OEM specs for fitment, construction and endurance. Their chrome-plated fittings, tempered steel inner wire and nylon inner sleeve provide smooth operation while the non-yellowing clear coated braiding offers abrasion resistance. 

These high-performance cables use the latest technology of longitudinally winding the outer housing lengthwise rather than spiral winding.  This allows the cable to bend in a more natural arc and eliminate spring compression.  They are available in stock length with a braided or black vinyl outer housing for 21-24 FLHR/FLHRXS models. 

DRAG SPECIALTIES

www.dragspecialties.com

S&S Cycle

S&S Cycle M8 VPP Clutches

S&S Cycle has added a line-up of Variable Pressure Plate Clutch options on M8 Softail and Touring Models with cable or clutch actuated hydraulic controls.

Available for cable or hydraulic operated clutches

Described as an easy and cost-effective way to upgrade the stock H-D clutch in a Touring or Softail model, they are said to providing 40-50% more clamping force while retaining the stock clutch lever feel at lower RPMs.

Available for M8 Touring and Softail models

"The S&S Cycle Variable Pressure Plate Clutch works like a lock up clutch with increased torque capacity," says Howard Kelley. "The strength of engagement increases with the RPM. They are a simple, modification free, fully reversible installation and fit behind the stock derby and primary cover."

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com

Paul Yaffe

Yaffe Has the Clamps

Paul Yaffe, of Paul Yaffe Originals (PYO) and Bagger Nation Fame has a super selection of super clamps with style choices and tech specs optimized for a wide range of applications and model styles.

The all-new Super Digital Riser Clamp is CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum anodized in a choice of black or gold. These clamps work with 1" bars and OE Harley-Davidson or Koso Digital Gauges.

Weld wing super riser clamp

The patented Bagger Nation Weld Wing Super Riser Clamp is a practical front-end tidy-up that protects and adds detailing for a custom look. The patented "No-Slip" Weld Wing Super clamp covers the unsightly welds and steps up 1.25″ handlebars. Available in black accent cut or chrome their performance style looks great on Softails, Dynas, FXRs, Sportsters and V-Rods.

A must when installing internally wired custom handlebars, this incredibly strong design is CNC-machined from a solid block of 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum - with an innovative design that incorporates a series of three locking set screws that virtually lock their ever-popular tall Monkey Bars (or any bar) in place. 

The Weld Wing Super Clamp also covers the unsightly welds and steps on 1.25" handlebars with a 1" clamp area (note - will not fit 2015 to present Road Glides/FLTR or 1.25" bars). This easy bolt-on Super Clamp design eliminates bar slippage the factory engineers never considered.

Super riser clamp

Finally, for this selection, the NO SLIP Super Riser Clamp all but eliminates the potential for handlebar slippage that is common with tall bars and big riders. 

A must when installing internally wired custom handlebars, "our incredibly strong design is CNC machined from a solid block of 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum. This innovative design incorporates a series of three locking screws that virtually lock tall bars in place."

Options include 10", 1.25" or 1.00" handlebar center section, with 2023 and later "Next Gen" Road and Street Glide coming soon.

Additionally, 2007-Earlier HD Touring models have a 2-piece top clamp system that can create a safety problem when handlebars are used with internal wiring. A large wiring exit hole is required on handlebars designed for internal wiring. This design factor can create a stress riser or breakage point where the handlebar is weakest at a point where the leverage is greatest at the same time. "The use of our Super Riser Clamp practically eliminates this stress area and makes the wire exit of the handlebar the strongest, not the weakest point.

"The Bagger Nation Super Riser Clamp and its 1-piece design, with bar-locking set screws machined into the clamp, will prevent inferior handlebars with poor knurling from slipping. Our Super Clamp has a wire relief incorporated into its design specifically for internal wiring applications. This design displaces pressure off of the center of the handlebar, making the handlebar stronger and more secure. This becomes especially important when using 1" handlebar styles and internal wiring."

PAUL YAFFE ORIGINALS

HOME OF BAGGER NATION

www.baggernation.com

Super digital riser clamp

American Prime Manufacturing (APM)

Comp Master - Extra Plates for More Power

For those who don't have the budget to upgrade from the lacklustre performance of the stock Big Twin clutch with a complete replacement clutch, performance replacement clutch packs are a tried and tested way to go.

TPP variable pressure clutch assist

Harley's clutch designs have simply not kept pace with the extra power that late-model Big Twins are capable of pushing out. Replacement clutch packs have become an increasingly popular alternative to complete replacement performance clutches – especially for those dealers who want to be sure they are able to cater for riders who are "on a budget."

Stock replacement clutch packs

American Prime Manufacturing (APM – Ben Kudon) has a wide range of Comp Master options, starting with this springs-inclusive extra plate stock replacement clutch pack. They install using all the stock components and are available for a wide range of H-D Big Twins from 1990 up.

Also seen here, APM's TPP Variable Pressure Clutch Assist to the Comp Master clutch increases the amount of power the clutch will hold and further decrease wrist strain. It is available for hydraulic and cable actuated applications. 

AMERICAN PRIME MANUFACTURING

www.americanprimemfginc.com