AFT

Briar Bauman - Dominates in Dallas for Half-Mile Double Double

Reigning Progressive AFT Grand National Champion Briar Bauman (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) doubled down on his Williams Grove (Pennsylvania) Half- Mile double header dominance by doing the double again at the Dallas Devil's Bowl Speedway (Mesquite, Texas) on September 25 and 26.

 
SuperTwins Presented by Vance & Hines - Dallas I
Friday night’s Roof Systems Dallas Half-Mile I presented by Law Tigers saw the older Bauman brother obliterate the world’s best dirt trackers for the third consecutive race, putting on yet another clinic at Devil’s Bowl Speedway in Mesquite, Texas - in control from green light to checkered flag, looking remarkably smooth throughout on an unfamiliar circuit that caught many of his rivals out.
Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Coolbeth-Nila Racing Indian FTR750) was the only rider that looked to be in Bauman’s league on this evening, and the Springfield Mile winner took second ahead of Robert Pearson (No. 27 Rackley Racing Indian FTR750) who returned to action in Dallas following a couple of rounds away with a new team and plenty of motivation.
 Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) missed the podium in fourth and Brandon Price (No. 92 Roof Systems of Dallas, Texas Indian FTR750) completed the top five.
Jarod Vanderkooi led the Harley/V&H factory XGR750R contingent home in 7th spot, with Dalton Gauthier 9th and Bryan Smith 17th.

SuperTwins Presented by Vance & Hines - Dallas I
Saturday September 26 saw Briar Bauman nail his fourth consecutive race win - all have been Half- Mile races - with another devastating green light to checkered flag performance that saw Sammy Halbert, Robert Person and Jared Mees reprise their Friday placings in 2nd through 4th and Jeffrey Carver Jr going three better in 5th.
Bauman’s monster weekend in Dallas has the potential to be a turning point in this year’s Grand National Championship fight. Prior to the Dallas Double Header, Bauman and rival Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) had traded the title lead back and forth at each successive event. Bauman brought that trend to an end in a major way in Texas, turning what was a narrow five-point advantage into a protective 25-point lead.
Jarod Vanderkooi again led the Harleys home, this time in 11th, with Bryan Smith in 16th, besting Dalton Gauthier in 18th.

AFT Singles - Dallas I
Ten races into the 2020 AFT Singles presented by Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys season, five riders have one win, and one rider has five wins. The five-win rider, Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), doubled up at his namesake event on Saturday night with a Dallas HM performance that accurately represented the superiority he’s demonstrated as of late.
Daniels was followed across the finish line by Michael Inderbitzin (No. 54 RMR Honda/Honda Talon CRF450R) in second, with the hugely experienced and decorated Henry Wiles (No. 17 RMR Honda/Honda Talon CRF450R) third; Williams Grove runner-up Trent Lowe (No. 48 Roof Systems of Dallas, TX/Shoei Helmets Honda CRF450R) edged Morgen Mischler (No. 13 Roof Systems DFW/Duffy Fleet Services KTM 450 SX-F) into fifth for fourth spot by just over a tenth of a second.
 
AFT Singles - Dallas II
Behind winner Dallas Daniels, the Saturday evening race saw Mikey Rush (No. 15 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) take 2nd, Tanner Dean (No. 38 1st Impressions Race Team Honda CRF450R) just beat Michael Inderbitzin (No. 54 RMR Honda/Honda Talon CRF450R) to the line to finish third, with Mischler a further 1.3 seconds back to complete the top five.

AFT Production Twins - Dallas I
James Rispoli (No. 43 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R) continued to operate in another orbit compared to the rest of the AFT Production Twins field, streaking to his fifth and sixth wins in six races with relative ease - making for a devilish Dallas Triple Double Header Double win for the weekend.
Chad Cose (No. 49 Wally Brown Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R) took second ahead of title contender Ryan Varnes (No. 68 RVR/RoyBuilt Don’s Kawasaki Ninja 650) in third, Jeremiah Duffy (No. 42 Sammy O Racing/ERT Kawasaki Ninja 650) fourth and Ben Lowe (No. 25 Roof Systems of Dallas/Bruce Lowe Excavating Yamaha MT-07) in fifth.

AFT Production Twins - Dallas II
James Rispoli's Saturday evening class win was actually a lot closer (0.663 seconds), ahead of reigning class champion Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07) in second, Chad Cose third, Danny Eslick (No. 64 Scott Powersports/R&D Machine Kawasaki Ninja 650) fourth and Dylan Bell (No. 31 Wayne Moore/Martin Trucking Harley-Davidson XG750R) fifth.
Rispoli now leads Texter by 48 points with six races remaining.

NEXT UP will be the Atlanta Short Tracks at the Dixie Speedway (Woodstock, GA. October 2 and 3) and the Charlotte Half-Miles (Concord, NC. October 9 and 10) before the Progressive AFT Championship ProBeam Daytona Short Track Double Header races at the Daytona International Speedway on Friday October 16 and Saturday 17.

 

Screamin' Eagle

Screamin' Eagle 131 Crate Engine for Select Softails

Harley has announced its "biggest, most powerful street-compliant engine" yet for select 2018 and later Softails - a new Screamin' Eagle 131 crate engine.
The new 131 cubic inch (2,151 cc) M-8 "delivers the biggest, most powerful street-compliant engine Harley-Davidson has ever created" and is available as a bolt-in replacement. Designed to run at high rpm and to provide a significant boost of torque from cruising speed, "riders will experience commanding performance from the moment the throttle is cracked open." It is backed by a 12-month factory limited warranty when installed by an authorized H-D dealer.

"Our adrenaline-seeking riders asked for thrilling power and torque with reliability," said Harley-Davidson Product Manager James Crean, "and the Screamin' Eagle 131 crate engine delivers exactly that, developed by the Screamin' Eagle performance team and factory-assembled at Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations (Pilgrim Road, Menomonee Falls, WI)."
The SE 131 "combines the 4.5-inch stroke of the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine with new 4.31-inch bore cylinders with a patent-protected design. M-8 extreme ported four-valve cylinder heads are CNC-ported and fitted with valves 1 mm larger in diameter than the previous generation to enhance air/fuel flow and velocity and feature fully machined combustion chambers shaped to optimize combustion efficiency.

 

"The engine is completed with a high-lift SE8-517 camshaft and high-performance cam bearing, high-compression (10.7:1) forged pistons, a 64 mm throttle body and intake manifold, and high-flow (5.5 grams per second) fuel injectors.
"It's a combination that produces 135 ft-lb of torque and 124 hp at the rear wheel when paired with Screamin' Eagle Street Cannon mufflers. Detailed with 131 Stage IV badging on the cylinder heads and timer cover, the engine is available in a choice of black and chrome or black and gloss black."
It fits 2017-later model Touring motorcycles originally equipped with either a M-8 oil-cooled or twin-cooled engine and select 2018-later Softail motorcycles; does not fit Trike models; '17-'19 models require separate purchase of a high-capacity oil pump; '17-'18 models require a SE high-capacity clutch plate kit. All models require additional purchase of ECM recalibration with SE Pro Street tuner.
The Screamin' Eagle 131 performance crate engine complies with noise and emissions standards in all U.S. states other than California on 2017-later Touring models and select 2018-later Softail models. Replacement engines must be re-fitted with emission control devices and systems appropriate for the vehicle model and model year in order to ensure emissions compliance.  Replacement engines are legal for use on public roads only when installed in select specified and compatible models. Street-compliant statements may not apply to markets outside the United States.

Indian Motorcycle

Indian and Bike Shed in Apparel Collection Deal

With its Los Angeles outlet slated to open soon, London, UK based motorcycle lifestyle store, club and event business The Bike Shed has teamed up with Indian Motorcycle to launch an exclusive line-up of lifestyle apparel.
"Designed in celebration of motorcycles, motorcycle culture and the soon-to-open Bike Shed Los Angeles destination, the co-branded collection includes a range of men's and women's shirts and hats, along with an exclusive BSMC x Indian Motorcycle sweatshirt and riding jersey.

"Brought together through shared values and the idea that there is no wrong way to appreciate motorcycling, Indian Motorcycle and Bike Shed Motorcycle Club believe in creating a welcoming environment for all riders. Whether riding the open road or hanging with friends, Indian Motorcycle and Bike Shed Motorcycle Club exist to fuel the passion of life on two wheels."
Reid Wilson, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle, is quoted as saying: "We're proud to collaborate with Bike Shed on this apparel collection and celebrate our love for motorcycles and motorcycle culture. When we found out Bike Shed was opening a clubhouse in the U.S., we knew we wanted to get involved. A special edition apparel collection was a no-brainer, and we're extremely proud to align with Bike Shed as they plan for their opening in Los Angeles."
This year, The Bike Shed will "expand its ever-growing community" with the opening of its first-ever U.S. location. "Home to a thriving moto and creative community, Los Angeles' Arts District will soon welcome the highly anticipated Bike Shed Los Angeles: a 30,000 square-foot destination venue, complete with a full-service restaurant, café, bar and lounge, a barbershop, tattoo studio, events space and large retail emporium."
"We wanted to align with an American brand that shared our same all-inclusive motorcycle values," said Anthony 'Dutch' van Someren, founder of the Bike Shed Motorcycle Club. "Indian Motorcycle is an iconic and historic brand that has evolved to remain relevant as moto culture has evolved, balancing timeless design and authenticity with modern performance and practicality, bringing new appreciation and customers to the brand and its bikes.
"Our clothing collaboration partnership carries those same values, aligning two brands that are as much about community and experience as we are about quality products, made to be fit-for-purpose while carrying timeless style and heritage."
To help launch the exclusive apparel collection, Indian Motorcycle and Bike Shed Motorcycle Club tapped renowned bike builder and founder of Brat Style, Go Takamine. Known for his work building and racing classic Indian motorcycles, Takamine exemplifies the deep passion and love for motorcycles and motorcycle culture that the Indian Motorcycle and Bike Shed collaboration represents.
The exclusive Indian Motorcycle and Bike Shed Motorcycle Club apparel collection is available at select retail locations and online at IndianMotorcycle.com and TheBikeShed.cc

Bagger Nation

Bagger Nation - Phoenix Light Pod Kits

Paul Yaffe's Phoenix, Arizona based Bagger Nation says that its Lightning Bolts CoB LEDs (Chip on Board LED Technology) are a customer favorite "because they are remarkably versatile - they can be mounted anywhere you can drill a 7/16" hole.

Tri-Pods

"To make that even easier, we offer four distinctively different light mounting plates. Called 'The Phoenix Lights', they have been designed with versatility in mind and to offer the widest imaginable range of options.

Bi-Pods

"Each is an array of perfectly aligned lights with small bolt-on billet mounting plates and options of two, three or four lights for any Bagger, Dyna, Softail, Sportster, car, boat or spaceship!
"If there is room, you can mount your lights perfectly with these pods. Each plate is CNC-machined from 6061-T6 aluminum for strength and durability - a printable alignment sticker is available to download for precision positioning in the alignment and place of choice.

Quad-Pods

"Choose from Bi-Pods, Tri-Pods and Quad-Pods - use one set or get creative and combine them for a truly out of this world custom lights effect."

PAUL YAFFE'S BAGGER NATION
www.baggernation.com

Arlen Ness Enterprises

Legroom-Friendly 'Sidekick' Air Cleaners Feature Patented Tech

Available in black, chrome and titanium finishes, 'Sidekick' air cleaners by Ness Enterprises are an angled version of its forged billet air cleaners that "provide excellent legroom and increased airflow.

Black

"The performance air filter is made from a black synthetic filter element wrapped in a stainless steel mesh and accepts a clear polycarbonate window to view the intake system in action."
Featuring the Ness patent-pending hidden breather system and patent-pending oil catch/reservoir, they deliver "increased horsepower, torque and mileage and are covered by a California Air Resource Board Executive Order (CARB EO D-639-8)."
The CNC-forged billet aluminum backing plate's hidden breather is O-ringed at the heads, passes through the backing plate and exits inside the mouth of the throttle body through proprietary shooter tubes. This eliminates the need for any external hoses or hardware for a virtually closed loop system that prevents the oil blow-bye issues associated with M-8 engines by directing any excess breather oil back into the engine.

Chrome

The patent-pending oil catch/reservoir ensures no oil saturates the filter and restricts the airflow - the integrated oil catch collects any excess engine oil before it reaches the air filter - the bolt-on design allows the oil catch to be serviced when the filter element is serviced.
The radius air inlet allows for unobstructed airflow and specially designed breather bolts are hidden under billet covers for a clean look.  The black pre-oiled performance air filter is fully washable and re-usable; rain socks/pre-filters and filter kits are separately available.

Titanium

Outer air filter housing is CNC-machined from forged billet aluminum and features an angled shape for increased leg clearance and detailed CNC machine work. The clear polycarbonate window allows you to view your engine's intake system in action. The polycarbonate is hard-coated for long lasting durability and protection from engine oil and UV sunlight.
'Sidekick' air filters are available for most '99-'17 Twin Cams, '08-'17 FLT Touring, '16-'17 Softail, '16-'17 Dyna FXDLS and '99-'01 F.I. FLT, '91-up XL Sportsters, 2017 and up M-8 models. Will not fit FBW models.

ARLEN NESS ENTERPRISES
www.arlenness.com

Twin Power

Twin Power Lightweight, Advanced Tech Li-ion Batteries

Twin Power Brand Manager James Simonelli says these Twin Power brand lithium-ion batteries are "the best direct fit lithium-ion batteries for H-D applications available" and that they feature "advanced technology, light weight and high-cranking amps."

"These are the most advanced high-power lithium-ion phosphate technology motorcycle batteries you can put on an American V-twin as they deliver ultra-high cranking amps from a super-lightweight battery, weighing in at 1/3 of a lead acid battery. They have no corrosive liquids or toxic heavy metals, making them environmentally responsible, and with a two-year warranty, it will service you more than twice as long as your old battery."
The design features a cylindrical cell with energy storage welding technology for higher output; a built-in charge and equalizing protection board to prevent the battery from overcharging; superior vibration-resistant construction that allows multidirectional installation without damage, "and on top of all that, they are a direct fit for O.E.M. applications with no shimming or adaptors required," says James," with heavy-duty terminals in stock configuration for easy installation and long-lasting performance."

TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
www.twinpower-usa.com

Ultima Products

Ultima 113" Twin Cam Replacement in Blackout Finish

Pevely, Missouri based Ultima Products has added another option to its 113" Ultima Competition Series hydraulic chain tensioner replacement Twin Cam engines with availability in the popular Blackout finish, rounding out a complete range of four finish options, with polished, silver and black also available.
A direct bolt-in engine for '99-'06 "A" motor Twin Cam bikes, "just like our EVO style engines, this engine features high quality components at an affordable price.
"These cases utilize Timken sprocket shaft bearings, and the crankshaft assembly is the same one that Ultima has been building for years - dynamically balanced and featuring forged H-beam rods for a rock solid foundation.

"We use late model cam bearings and pinion bearing, counterbored stainless Allen head case bolts and manufacture to close and precise machining tolerances in prime C356-T6 aluminum that is superior in strength to A356.
"The pistons are forged aluminum from Mahle Motorsports and the heads feature conical valve springs, chromoly retainers, manganese bronze guides, compression releases and stainless steel valves. Valvetrain components include an Andrews 67H set of cams and Ultima’s 4140 steel adjustable pushrods - topped off with 4140 forged steel roller rockers.
"The cam chest components include a billet oil pump and billet cam support plate with late model hydraulic chain tensioners - with plenty of power, these engines make a great replacement for a tired stock motor or a custom build.
"Our state-of-the-art designed crankshaft incorporates a massive 1.670 diameter pin that is pressed into the one-piece heat treated 4140 steel flywheel halves, making these crankshafts some of the strongest available on the market today. Crank pins are installed with .008" press fit. These crankshafts feature lightweight 7.67" long H-beam rods with 0.927 diameter wrist pins and are balanced using our exclusive methods, making these some of the smoothest engines in the industry.
"The cylinder (and head) is a C356-T6 casting with cast-in liners that will just not move. All the fins are machined for an excellent cosmetic appearance. The head has 2.100" stainless intake valves and 1.700" stainless exhaust valves."

MIDWEST MOTORCYCLE SUPPLY
www.MidwestmcDealerExpress.com
www.ultimaproducts.com

NAMZ Custom Cycle Products

'Tall Boys' Speedo Extensions

Oreland, Pennsylvania based NAMZ Custom Cycle Products continues to "make it easy for you to do it right," says NAMZ CEO Jeff Zielinski.
"When it comes to wiring extensions, NAMZ is the number one source in the world! NAMZ produces about 95% of all wiring extensions sold across the globe. We also private label manufacture all types of specialized handlebar wiring extensions in all sorts of customer specified configurations," says Jeff.

NSXH-CB36

NSXH-RG1

"How do we do it? The key is the processing equipment. We only invest in the very best Swiss, German and American made military-spec equipment, so we can be as consistent as possible. We reduce as much of the human error elements as physically possible to prevent mistakes and reduce the pressure on our employees.
"We offer speedometer extensions for all models dating back to the mid-90s to current. Making installation simple, we install the terminals on both ends of our extensions, making your life easier. And soon we will be releasing 100% plug-n-play speedometer extensions with an OEM female connector installed and a custom made mating male connector because we tooled up and made the male mating connector with wire seal and custom designed crimp terminals."

NSXH-D15

NSXH-M15

NAMZ is celebrating 21 years in business providing "world class" electrical components, LED lighting, Badlands lighting modules, wiring harnesses and installation supplies. NAMZ and Badlands products are available through Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, Tucker, Mid-USA, J&P Cycles, V-Twin, Parts Canada, Parts Europe, Custom Chrome Europe, Motorcycle Storehouse, W&W, Zodiac, Rollies Speed Shop and Performance Cycle Wholesale Limited, or directly from its website.
Letric Lighting Co. products are available through Tucker and Rollies Speed Shop or also directly from its website.

NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS
www.namzccp.com

Performance Machine

PM Mid Controls

These mid controls from Performance Machine allow for a more aggressive riding position. They are an easy bolt-on using the stock master cylinder.

They provide increased clearance while cornering, are made in 6061-T6 billet aluminum, include shift linkages and hardware and are available in Black Ops and Gold Ops finish compatible with both passenger footpegs or floorboards - foot and toepegs sold separately.
They will not work with the stock Touring exhaust system and some aftermarket exhaust systems. They are available for '17-'20 FLHT/FLHR/FLHX/FLTRX/FLTRU/FLTRK/FLTR and '18-'20 Softails.


DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com
www.performancemachine.com

Motion Pro

Pro Heavy-Duty Pin Spanner Allows Precision Torque Setting

This Pro heavy-duty pin spanner from Loomis, California based specialist Motion Pro is an innovative specialty service tool designed to provide better control and range when working with pin spanner components. 

 

Pin spanner components are unique and can be found most commonly on precision motorcycle suspension components. Pin spanner sizes vary, so Motion Pro aimed to provide the primary sizes that a professional tech or home enthusiast may need to remove most components with ease.
Motion Pro's heavy-duty pin spanner includes 3 mm, 4 mm and 5 mm hardened steel pins, which can be quickly changed using a 7 mm open end wrench.
Fastening to precise torque settings is difficult with standard pin spanner wrench designs, but the 3/8" drive feature included with the Motion Pro heavy-duty pin spanner allows for additional control and use of a torque setting driver to achieve proper torque specifications.
A long-handled 3/8 driver can also be used for more leverage and a secure pull for removing stubborn pin spanner components.  The Motion Pro heavy-duty pin spanner is all-new and provides great features for powersports mechanics and enthusiasts needing the right tool for the job.   
In suspension terms, the most common use of pins is in the installation and removal of shock absorber reservoirs, screw-in seal heads, fork caps and bearing retainers. The freely pivoting, curved low profile arms of the billet heat treated steel, durable black oxide treated Pro heavy-duty spanner have a range of 10.5 mm to 150 mm.
This patented design has a maximum torque rating of 70 lb-ft, and the body of the tool is backed by a lifetime warranty. Replacement pins additionally available.

MOTION PRO
www.motionpro.com

Comment by Editor-in-Chief, Robin Bradley

Harley Should Have Gone Private

Rideapart.com reports that H-D is very likely to go ahead with the closure of its Bawal, India factory and can its Street 500/750 line, with Asia Pacific operations being focused at its Thailand plant.
Meanwhile, talks are reportedly underway with KTM and Triumph collaborator Bajaj, Classic Legends owner (the Jawa and BSA owner) and Peugeot Motorcycles' parent company Mahindra & Mahindra and former Buell Racing owner Hero Motocorp for an alternate manufacturing of CKD (Complete Knock Down) kit assembly solution for the Indian market.
Of the major players in India, it would appear that only TVS, who has a deal with BMW Motorrad and recently acquired Norton Motorcycles, and Eicher Motors, the Royal Enfield owner, are the only Indian motorcycle industry players not currently on Harley's list of potential collaborators for the largest English speaking consumer market in the world.
Following the Motorsport Action Group's (MAG) great 'Unwind', Harley's 'Rewire' is the latest instalment in that favorite corporate parlour game beloved by children and everyone with an MBA - "Ooops, that didn't work, screw the cost, let's try again!"
However, where for children it is an experiential exercise, a learning experience, for a theoretically respected and capable corporate such as Harley-Davidson, it is more of an existential exercise. If Harley gets this wrong, it really will have run out of 'Roads'. I still maintain that the best thing it could do, should have done, is to have gone private again.
Maybe newly minted CEO Jochen Zeitz has that in his playbook, though, in fact, it would be much less expensive to do it while the company is drowning, then cure its problems without stockholders demanding their several pounds of flesh every quarter.
Waiting to cure the problems once back in private hands would have been a way more economical and efficient way to implement a new playbook, and in the medium to long-term a hugely more profitable way for a new owner or owners to be able to get to go back to the bank with a smile on their faces.
 

"other people's balance sheets"

There were, and still are, plenty of options to navigate back into private hands, and my favorite would be the consortium of dealer owners that could be put together quite quickly. There has been talk of something like that happening, and in the posh seats too - not just the bleachers.
This year's COVID-19 context would have made such a play an even more attractive, practical and effective strategy as it happens, but nobody was to know that.
What I think most people do realize, including the increasing number of ex-Harley executives now populating the aftermarket, is that it was even widely viewed internally as a preferable strategy just as soon as the wait lists evaporated.
Much is made of the 'lost decade' in terms of consumer demographics and the reshaping of the motorcycle industry customer landscape. But for Harley too it has been a lost decade and an entirely inexcusable string of missed opportunities.
There was never anything wrong in principle about the strategy that Harley embarked on in the late 1990s and early noughts to try and add brands to the portfolio.
The fact that the attempts to develop Buell and MV Agusta didn't work out is less a comment on whether or not they were smart ideas, but instead on the timing (which was late and sucked) and on their insistence to meddle in businesses that should have been allowed to evolve their own visions.
When Keith Wandell was hired to replace Jim Zeimer and perform the role of financial crisis company surgeon, it was a necessary evil. But, subsequently under Matt Levatich's watch, when Harley (and the motorcycle industry itself) had failed to mend by 2014/2015, a golden opportunity to get back on the acquisition trail was missed.
In private hands at that stage (surely by far the most sensible response to the share crash price that saw H-D drop from $73 in late 2006 to around $11 in just 27 months), the company could have bought out its remaining shareholders for buttons, relatively speaking.
Then, once the price had recovered back to the $70 mark in 2014, it failed again to spot an opportunity to leverage the growth for funds to make purchases.
When Harley came within 48 hours of acquiring (or merging with) KTM (depending on whom you believe) in late 1998, and subsequently had options to move on a then very reasonably priced Ducati (there were even Triumph, Norton and Moto Guzzi rumors at that stage too), I used to play a game of "Fantasy Forecourt".
The game involved seeing the Bar 'n Shield, Buell, KTM, Triumph, Ducati and other flags fluttering proudly in the wind outside the world's leading network of state-of-the-art motorcycle lifestyle destination dealerships all across the globe.
Instead, highly desirable and hugely exploitable brands such as those, and all the ones currently in Chinese and Indian hands, are (mostly) now lubricating other people's balance sheets.
Having achieved that while in private hands could then have been finished off with the mother of all leisure industry IPOs last year - one that would have seen Harley still playing with the big boys in the upper quartile of the S&P 500, rather than being unceremoniously dumped out of it three months ago.
Yes, yes, hindsight, flights of fantasy and all that. If Bradley is so smart, how come he's still publishing a motorcycle magazine? Though come to think of it, as one of the few remaining people who is still doing so, I am either a survivor or a dumbass (or maybe both). You can all form your opinions on that one!
Whichever way things had played out for Harley doesn't change the fact that the 'Magnificent Dozen', the twelve believers who took the company out of AMF's hands and survived their own existential crisis in 1986, deserve way better than to have had the success they set in motion through to 2006 wasted in the way that it has been.
Maybe Jochen Zeitz is the right man for the job and the times. Maybe his rapidly proliferating army of Chief Officers of this, that and the other will turn out to be a new golden circle of true believers who 'get it', but maybe they won't. As Philip Seymour Hoffman's Zen Master said in 'Charlie Wilson's War'…"we'll see"!

News Briefs

As at August 3rd, PRI President Dr. Jamie Meyer said that the organization was still committed to seeing the 2020 PRI Trade Show go ahead. However, slated for December 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center, at the time of writing, a final, formal approval from the Marion County Health Department was still required and pending. Meyer stated that PRI "is committed to helping the racing community get through the challenges it currently faces due to the coronavirus pandemic. Providing the racing industry with a venue where they can conduct business safely, efficiently and productively is PRI’s top priority."

 

Originally scheduled for June, the 2020 iteration of the Biarritz, France based Wheels and Waves celebration of all things Moto Culture and associated Flat Track Racing and 'Punks Peak' Hill Climb has been cancelled for a second time. It had been rearranged for September 3 to 6 this year, but the organizers have now had to 'wave the white flag of surrender' and hope to be able to stage a 10th Edition in June 2021.

New EU standards will include 'crash testing' with helmets having to undergo impact tests at oblique angles. Testers will use 45-degree angle impacts to measure how add-ons such as helmet-mounted Bluetooth comms and action cameras affect energy absorption and rotational protection during a crash. The new requirements will co-exist with the current ECE 22.05, replacing them completely (as ECE.06) in 2023.

The AMA withdrew its three-man United States team from the 2020 FIM Motocross of Nations just two weeks before the event itself was cancelled. The event had been slated to be staged in the UK (September 25-27). Billed as the "Olympics of Motocross," the MXoN has been staged every year since 1947. The 'winningest' country in MXoN history with 22 wins to its name, the USA last brought the Chamberlain Trophy back to home soil in 2011.

In the absence of being able to race at Austin, Texas (or elsewhere outside Europe in the rescheduled season), the spectacular, twisting, undulating Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, Portimao, Portugal, is to make its MotoGP debut hosting a 15th and season final race on November 20-22nd. The Autodromo has been the reserve track for MotoGP since 2017; the venue has been on the WSBK calendar for some time. This will be the first MotoGP in Portugal since Estoril in 2012.

Fox Factory Holding Corp (the parent company of FOX Shocks etc.) reports "resilient" second quarter sales down by -4.7% ($183.1m) with a gross margin increase of 40 bp to 32.8%. Net income attributable to FOX stockholders was $12.6m, or 6.9% of sales and $0.32 of earnings per diluted share, compared to $22.9m or 11.9% of sales and $0.59 of earnings per diluted share in the same period last fiscal year.


Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news, RideApart.com, Motor1.com

Tecmate

The Good, Better and Best of Riders and their Relationship with Battery Chemistry

A question often asked is why OptiMate has different battery chargers for lead-acid and lithium starter batteries if the two battery types work fine in the same vehicle, i.e. in a 12V vehicle charging system.
Both 12V lead-acid and 12.8V lithium starter batteries work well within the 13V to 14.5V voltage zone required for a vehicle's ignition system to perform. That's why the stock lead-acid battery in a modern powersport vehicle can be replaced with a suitable LFP/LiFePO4 battery. In other words, for all intents and purposes, and without going into primary differences such as weight or cranking amps, for most riders a battery performs the same function - starting the engine, never mind the chemistry.  

If riders kept their batteries maintained every time they park their vehicle, not much else is needed other than an OptiMate 1 DUO, but we know that does not always happen!
As soon as that battery is dead-flat, you need a different type of charger to bring it back to life. Following deep discharge, lead-acid and lithium batteries require completely different reconditioning methods to successfully recover them from a vulnerable 'dead-flat' state - and "successfully" also means safely where LFP/LiFePO4 batteries are concerned.
The four cells in a dead-flat battery will be in a critical state of health and need to be treated gently. High current or voltage will cause damage or even kill the battery. OptiMate lithium battery chargers automatically deliver controlled low current and low voltage to bring all cells safely back up to the normal voltage zone before ramping up charging.  
A sulphated AGM 12V lead-acid battery on the other hand will not accept charge at normal voltage (up to 14.5V). It needs a higher reconditioning voltage to overcome its reluctance to accept charge, and that's within the charge algorithm of both the OptiMate 3 and OptiMate 4 battery chargers - and it's a pretty smart algorithm too.
If vehicle circuitry is sensed, it will not engage that high voltage SAVE mode. It's therefore best to recover that battery 'off vehicle'.
The basic things to remember are that higher voltage kills lithium batteries, but a sulphated lead-acid battery needs higher than normal voltage to overcome its reluctance to accept charge - their responses are the opposite of each other.
Secondly, at low voltage a lithium battery can only tolerate low current, but a discharged lead-acid battery can accept high current charge - again, the opposite of each other.
So how come a charger such as the OptiMate 1 DUO works on both battery chemistries? Well, the DUO is a safe compromise. It does not deliver high voltage recovery, simple - and at low voltage it delivers only very low current. That said, it does still have plenty of 'smarts' - for example, its 24-7 maintenance program adjusts to the connected battery.
For dealers it is important to sell the right OptiMate battery charger to their customers. Use the table seen here to navigate your way through the different customer habits that you have to allow for.
The GOOD option is for the conscientious riders who never forget, i.e. always maintain the battery of their parked vehicle, with the BETTER or BEST options for those riders who may forget and need, on occasion, to save their battery or who simply prefer a battery charger with more features.
www.tecmate.com
www.optimate1.com

Galfer

Galfer - Over 300 CUBIQ Brake Disc Applications

Spanish brake component manufacturer Galfer launched its new CUBIQ brake disc design at EICMA in November 2019 and, as the originators of the 'Disc Wave' design, they are well on the way to replicating its popularity with over 300 CUBIQ model applications already available for H-D, Indian Motorcycle, Victory and custom V-twin fitments as well as for many of the best selling Japanese and European brand on-highway models.
The new CUBIQ brake disc concept features a unique braking track shape in the form of hexagons, similar to the crystalline structure of steel molecules.
This enhances cooling and significantly reduces the weight. The reduced unsprung mass improves agility and motorcycle maneuverability (gyroscopic effect), reduces dynamic imbalance under breaking and contributes to reducing stopping distances.
Galfer USA CEO Sandro Milesi, a veteran of the international motorcycle brakes industry, said that "by understanding the dynamic requirements of today’s motorcycles, and applying a simulation model using contemporary elements, we have designed a geometry that optimizes the mass-heat dissipation ratio.
"The increased convection perimeter provides a greater cooling surface, thus improving heat dissipation, and the CUBIQ design optimizes the wear resistance of the brake pads."
www.galferusa.com

Bagger Nation

The 'Sharknado' - "Not All Fairings Are Created Equal"

Our thanks to Phoenix, Arizona based Bagger Nation - Paul Yaffe's emporium of fine parts for discerning riders - for more information about the hugely versatile 'Sharknado' fairing they introduced earlier this year.
As previously reported, it "offers a completely unique, aggressive style" and can be adapted to just about any H-D model - yes, you read it right, almost ANY H-D model.
Bagger Nation has its own composite shop on its three building 'campus' and each 'Sharknado' fairing is, literally, individually handmade by experienced craftsmen - and this is no cheap fiber spray gun process either.

Each 3D, hand formed 'Sharknado' fairing ships in gelcoat, is fully finished inside and out, and utilizes the separately available H-D Fat Bob LED headlight.

Paul Yaffe told us: "Ours is a composite material and process, which is another, different form of fiberglass - a higher quality version.
"An analog would be working with Prepreg Carbon Fiber. Our composite is made up of several components. It is a cross-patterned cloth that is hand laid direct into a 3D mold. Resin is then rolled into it by hand to assure uniform impregnation and void-free construction - which means higher strength and greater durability.
"The inner and outer components are then bonded as one with added internal steel supports to create a three-dimensional product that's mirror-finished on both sides, inside and out - by industry standards this is a very high quality, high standard, high strength way of doing things, but we want our customers to have products that we would be happy to have on our own bikes.

"The norm is what's called a chop gun sprayed material that creates a non-uniformed, messy, void plagued product that is prone to cracking, warping and gas pockets. It's a much cheaper and low labor-intensive process.
"Instead, ours is a really highly skilled craftsmen-produced, durable, high class product. Sad to say, but with every year that passes, that becomes an ever rarer thing in our industry. To be honest, I believe we are one of only a few companies that practice this method and, along with our great designs, that is also why our composite products are so robust and have such a great reputation."

Choice of Klock Werks 'Flare' windshield height options: 9" and 11.5" (seen here)

To finish off the package, Bagger Nation offers a choice of high quality 9" or 11.5" hard coated polycarbonate tinted 'Flare' windshields from Klock Werks. 'Flare' windshields were designed and wind tunnel tested for aerodynamic efficiency to improve front end traction and reduce rider buffeting on a Bonneville Salt Flats National Land Speed Record setting Bagger.
The 'Sharknado' has Bagger Nation's patent-pending EZ mount system integrated into the construction of the fairing and, as a final touch, it is designed to easily take a separately available H-D Fat Bob LED headlight.

Patent-pending integral EZ mount system

"It’s a fact that not all available fairing upgrade options are created equal. We pride ourselves on the integrity of our design ideas and handmake them right here in our Phoenix factory - this mini shark nose profile fairing is unique in design and quality. It even looks awesome in gelcoat!"

PAUL YAFFE'S BAGGER NATION
www.baggernation.com

Aston Martin and Brough Superior

AMB 001 Deliveries On Schedule for End of 2020

First seen as a prototype at the EICMA/Milan Show in November 2019, the AMB 001 by Aston Martin and Brough Superior took to the racetrack at Pau-Arnos in France recently to begin testing. Designed and engineered for the racetrack, Aston Martin says that its AMB 001 will be strictly limited to just 100 examples and is on schedule for first deliveries at the end of this year.
Aston Martin Executive Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, said: "Everybody involved has managed to make tremendous progress with the development of the AMB 001, despite the challenges we have all been facing. This special motorcycle is, like our road cars, the result of beautiful design melding with modern technology to produce a bike that any collector will be proud of."

Commenting on the ongoing success of the development program, Brough Superior CEO Thierry Henriette said: "One of the key design features of the AMB 001 is an aluminum fin that runs along the full length of a carbon fiber tank, passing under the saddle and out onto the rear. The body holding the fin and supporting the saddle is one of the areas where we called on the unique knowledge of Mecano ID, who joined the project to apply specialist aerospace-quality carbon fiber skills to the exclusive AMB 001.

 

"While the focus of the track testing is directed at the chassis, engine bench testing takes place in parallel to streamline the development process. The AMB 001 boasts a turbo-charged engine with an output of 180 hp, which is unique in the motorcycle industry for a serial production bike. The turbo package includes an intercooler; this imposing radiator with its striking oversized/wide intake manifold gives the V-twin a supercar engine appearance."
Once this testing process is complete, the plan is for the AMB 001 to go into production at the Brough Superior factory in Toulouse, France. Only 100 examples will be made, with an MRSP of 108,000.00 euro (including 20% sales tax; approx. US$ 121,500).
astonmartin.com
broughsuperiormotorcycles.com

Mupo

Mupo AB1 EVO Shock for FTR 1200

Italian suspension specialist Mupo has a range of options available for the Indian FTR 1200 - all with similar features and the same genuinely race bred quality and durability that they build into its Super and Hypersport sector sport bike suspensions.

Ideal for both the road and on the track, the hard anodized Mupo AB1 rear shock features “plug and play” adjustments with independent rebound and compression adjustments that work in synergy to ensure optimum balanced suspension performance.
All components are CNC-machined from solid, 100% dimensionally checked and then subjected to selected high-tech component-specific surface treatments for the optimal functioning of each individual part.
An evolution of Mupo's standard AB1 nitrogen gas pressurized monoshock, the AB1 EVO features an upgraded 46 mm Ergal 7075 cylinder (zinc and aluminum alloy for anti-stress properties) instead of steel for improved strength, reliability and main piston precision. The 46 mm piston has been designed to maximize the oil flow and ensure the flatness of the reed valve pack support surfaces, which improves fluid hydraulics and radically increase rear tire grip. The reservoir, head and connections are also in Ergal 7075.
The separate adjustments of double compression at high/low speeds, compression, wheelbase and spring preload with millimeter ring nuts make the AB1 EVO the ideal choice for riders who want precision handling. The 16 mm rod is surface treated with Hyperlox DLC (Diamond Like Coating), which gives a minimum sliding coefficient and therefore greater sensitivity.
Thanks to the wide range of springs available, dealers can customize the shock for their customers' load and riding style preference at point of order. For maximum performance, Mupo recommends the installation of the hydraulic preload option, which allows for dynamic real time adjustment in response to changes in load and road or track surface.
The range of adjustability is immense - 24 clicks of low speed and five clicks of high speed compression; 40 positions of extension and 9 mm of adjustable wheelbase.
All Mupo products are handmade to order and have a 2-year warranty. This can be extended up to six years by carrying out periodic reviews and maintenance per the use and maintenance booklet.

MUPO S.R.L
www.mupo.it

Twin Power

Twin Power Screamin' Eagle Replacement Air Filters

Twin Power air filters for Screamin' Eagle kits are described as high quality, long lasting replacements with a precision hand-poured design and urethane construction that will not crack or curl.

Twin Power Brand Manager James Simonelli says "our air filters will provide maximum air flow and peak filtration. Made with four layers of high-flow surgical cotton gauze for superior filtration, we specified these filters to be genuinely 100% washable and reusable."
The design features include durable, epoxy-coated wire mesh and there are fitments for all Screamin' Eagle 7" OD and many SE Big Twins (including Dyna, FLH, FLT etc.) and Sportsters.

TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
www.twinpower-usa.com

Cardo

Cardo's Special Edition PACKTALK BLACK

Said to "combine sleek, dark styling with superior JBL sound," Plano, Texas based Cardo's new PACKTALK BLACK special edition is the latest addition to their "industry-leading, DMC (Dynamic Mesh Communications) powered PACKTALK rider communication systems line-up."
Said to be the first motorcycle communicator to featuring 45 mm JBL Speakers as stock, the "sleek, blacked-out design and a three-year warranty help create the industry's most desired, sophisticated and dynamic motorcycle communications system.
"It offers the same industry-leading features riders have relied on with the PACKTALK BOLD and PACKTALK SLIM. Our state-of-art, DMC-powered devices function with a self-adjusting network that automatically maintains a connection, thus allowing up to 15 riders to seamlessly join, leave and re-join at a distance of up to five miles.
"Like other PACKTALK models, PACKTALK BLACK is water and dustproof, offers 13 hours of battery life, and features the always-on Natural Voice Operation - allowing riders to keep their eyes on the road, hands on the bars, and activate their device by simply saying 'Hey, Cardo.'
"The PACKTALK BLACK is the ultimate choice for riders who demand the highest level of style and performance, coupled with the industry's best, most proven and reliable technology," said Dan Emodi, Cardo Systems' Chief Marketing Officer.

"With the industry's first and only three-year complete warranty, riders can reap the benefits of PACKTALK's superior, proven technology and unmatched features, but do so with a darker, edgier expression of personal style."
" Since our inception, Cardo Systems has specialized in the design, development, manufacturing and sale of state-of-the-art wireless communication and entertainment systems for motorcycle riders. We pioneered the vast majority of innovations for Bluetooth motorcycle communication systems and our products are now available in over 100 countries."

CARDO SYSTEMS
www.cardosystems.com

K&N Filters

K&N for FTR 1200

This high flow air filter by K&N is designed to provide increased performance, with the pleated media that K&N uses provides a large filtration area, offering long service intervals. Multi-layers of woven cotton gauze media offers excellent filtration.

The filter fits directly into OEM airbox with application-specific sealing bead to ensure a precise fit. Fuel management modifications are not required for increased performance, and it is washable and reusable, pre-oiled and ready to ride. Fits 2019-2020 Indian FTR 1200.

DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com
www.knfilters.com

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties Cancels its February 2021 Louisville Spring NVP Product Expo

LeMans Corporation, the parent company of Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties, has announced that its annual Spring NVP Product Expo is canceled.

Slated for February 13-14, 2021 in Louisville, KY., the event has grown substantially since the company first dropped anchor at Louisville two years ago, and with only AIMExpo still in play, has quickly established itself as the largest of the new generation of distributor operated dealer exhibitions that have filled the void left by the demise of independent, generally media outlet owned events such as the Dealernews 'Indy' Dealer Expo (Advanstar) and V-Twin Expo (Cincinnati/Paisano/Easyriders).
LeMans has been taking its responsibilities for the safety of its employees, dealers and vendors very seriously and, wisely, acted equally as decisively and early when canceling the annual Madison, Wisconsin NVP Product Expo (August).
The company says that "following continued uncertainty regarding the global COVID-19 pandemic, we felt this cancelation was in the best interest of our company and industry colleagues alike. Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties continue to navigate these unprecedented times with respect for the health, safety and well-being of our teams, dealers, vendors, the industry and our communities."
AIMExpo is still talking a good game. It is planned to be held on January 21 - 23 at Columbus, Ohio. At the time of writing, coronavirus infections are still continuing to rise in Ohio, with Columbus a 'hot-spot'.
Having abandoned its 'European style' launch concept of bringing a joint trade and consumer 'Trade Fair' and OEM/aftermarket concept to the United States for the first time in the motorcycle industry, it remains to be seen if it goes ahead.
www.dragspecialties.com

AFT

Briar Bauman Owns Williams Grove
Rounds 7 & 8, Williams Grove Speedway Half-Miles I & II, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, September 11 & 12

 
AFT SuperTwins presented by Vance & Hines
Briar Bauman (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) fought back against Jared Mees' win last time out in the Springfield Mile II and showed just what an AFT Grand National Champion at the peak of his powers is capable of by taking dominating wins in both the Williams Grove Half-Miles in Friday evening's Williams Grove Half-Mile I.

Bauman flat-out crushed the opposition in Race I, in what runner-up Brandon Robinson (No. 44 HCRR Racing/Ben Evans Racing Indian FTR750), who picked up his second consecutive second place, described a "demoralizing" performance while accepting his second-place trophy. The result did not come as much of a shock - it was the third year running Bauman proved his superiority at the Williams Grove Speedway.
Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) took third, with his brother's principal championship rival Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) bringing it home fourth (despite having stolen the holeshot), ahead of Dan Bromley (No. 62 Roof Systems of Dallas, Texas Indian FTR750) in fifth.
Jarod Vanderkooi led the H-D Vance & Hines XG750Rs home in ninth, ahead of Bryan Smith in tenth and Dalton Gauthier in 16th place.
In Race II the following evening, Briar Bauman backed it up with a tape-to-tape win.
Jeffrey Carver Jr. (No. 23 Happy Trails Racing FTR750) took second ahead of Jared Mees, with Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Coolbeth-Nila Racing Indian FTR750) fourth and Dan Bromley fifth.
In Race II it was Dalton Gauthier who led the Harleys home (ninth), with Jarod Vanderkooi 12th and Bryan Smith 15th.
Briar Bauman's wins pushes him back ahead of Mees in his quest to repeat as Grand National Champion as the rebuilt season officially reached its midpoint. Bauman will carry a slim five-point advantage (169-164) into what promises to be an epic four-weekend, eight-race stretch run to the throne.

AFT Singles presented by Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys
In the Friday night AFT Singles Race I, 2019 championship runner-up Mikey Rush (No. 15 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) finally broke through to claim his first Main Event victory of 2020.
It didn't come easily, as he had to defeat his second-ranked teammate Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) and 2016 GNC2 champ Ryan Wells (No. 94 Waters Autobody Racing/D&D PowerSports KTM 450 SX-F) who finished third to make it happen. Morgen Mischler on another KTM 450 SX-F was fourth, with Max Whale fifth on a Kawasaki KX450F.
In Saturday's Race II, Dallas Daniels went one better with a win on his Yamaha, ahead of Trent Lowe second, Tanner Dean third, Kevin Stollings fourth and Trevor Brunner fifth on Honda CRF450Rs.

AFT Production Twins
James Rispoli (No. 43 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R) continued his recent tear, scoring his third AFT Production Twins victory in the class' most recent four Main Events.
"The Rocket" tracked down reigning champion Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07) early and eventually held him off for second, with Ryan Varnes (No. 68 RVR/RoyBuilt Don's Kawasaki Ninja 650) third, Indy Mile winner Ben Lowe (No. 25 Roof Systems of Dallas/Bruce Lowe Excavating Yamaha MT-07) fourth and Rispoli's fellow multinational championship-winning road racer Danny Eslick (No. 64 Scott Powersports/R&D Machine Kawasaki Ninja 650) in fifth.
It is of note that Johnny Lewis (Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield Twin FT & Harris Performance) brought the Royal Enfield 650 home in sixth spot in the Royal Enfield's maiden event.
In the Saturday night Singles Race II it was a repeat for the first four, with Jeremiah Duffy fifth on the Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Next up the action shifts to the Dallas Half-Mile double-headers at the Devil's Bowl Speedway (September 25 and 26), the Atlanta Short Tracks (October 2nd and 3rd) and Charlotte Half-Miles.

News Briefs

Polaris Inc. announced today the declaration of a regular quarterly $0.62 per share cash dividend payable on September 15, 2020 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 1, 2020.

The female participants of Royal Enfield's BUILD, TRAIN, RACE program spent two days working with AFT racer Johnny Lewis at the Viola, Wisconsin S&S Cycle Speed Ranch last month. S&S created an oval dirt track out of a former horse racing circuit on land owned by the company to celebrate its 60th anniversary with a weekend of racing and general tomfoolery. However, they are continuing to maintain and groom it for use for special events, training and product development purposes - oh, and 'cos it's fun!

In addition to the Drag Specialties sponsored 'King Of The Baggers' race at Laguna Seca, the rescheduled MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey, California (October 23-25), will also now stage a hillclimb event that will see racers attempting to tame the hill that is home to the famous Corkscrew. The event will be produced by Elevated Action Sports (EAS), an extreme moto company based in the San Francisco Bay area that has been hosting motoclimb and extreme enduro races since 2015. Rumors that 'KOTB' Grand Marshall Don Emde may be tempted out of retirement for a one-time burst of derring-do are regarded as "premature."

These days under Chinese ownership, the storied and once hugely popular Italian SWM (Speedy Working Motorcycles) brand has signed a domestic U.S. distribution deal with Watertown, South Dakota based Central Powersports Distribution. Initially founded in 1971 near Milan, SWM made Observed Trials, Enduro, MX and off-road Sachs and then Rotax engined 50, 100, 125 and 250 cc bikes until 1984. Reborn in 2014, the current range features lightweight singles.

Santa Cruz, California based Zero Motorcycles has announced a 'Cash for Carbon' motorcycle trade-in program. Consumers trading gas motorcycles towards the purchase of new electric motorcycles from Zero get an additional $1,500 in value.

Warren Buffett (of Berkshire Hathaway/BH fame) loaned some $300m to Harley during the 2007/9 financial crisis. "It was the bridge we needed to get us through a rough time," then H-D CFO John Olin said in 2014. BH is said to have made around $150m in profit from the five-year loan. H-D is said to have tried to renegotiate the terms of the loan at one stage - the 'Sage of Omaha' is said to have declined the kind invitation to do so. However, he could have made more than $1bn if he'd invested $300m in H-D stock over the same period: "I knew enough to lend them money, I didn't know enough to buy the equity," said Buffett.

Brembo, both directly and through its parent company Nuova FourB, has completed the acquisition of a "long-term" 4.99% stake in Milan based tire maker Pirelli S.p.A. Taken over by China in 2015, a 2017 IPO saw 40% of Pirelli's equity refloated on the Milan Bourse. Brembo revenues for the first half of 2020 amounted to € 951.1m (-28.2%) at an EBITDA margin of 15.1%/€ 143.3m; EBIT margin was 4.1%/€ 38.8m. Net investments for the period amounted to € 73.4m; net financial debt was € 597.5m.

Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news, RideApart.com, Motor1.com