American Flat Track

Mees Beats Daniels in Stunning Senoia Short Track

Reigning Grand National Champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750) came out victorious following an epic showdown featuring two of Progressive American Flat Track's biggest stars in the Yamaha Senoia Short Track on Saturday March 25, at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia.

Meanwhile, two-time Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER championship runner-up Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) earned his first victory of the '23 season in convincing fashion.

SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle

Mees entered the weekend with the knowledge that his place atop the pecking order was under threat from the fast-rising Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who had opened his '23 title campaign with two dominating wins at Daytona two weeks earlier.

Initially Mees got away to a good lead, but seeing what the factory Indian ace was up to, Daniels stuck a hard pass in on teammate JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) to slot into second and then put his head down in hopes of reeling Mees back in.

Daniels ultimately arrived on Mees' rear wheel and at last took the lead at half-distance, just as the two made their way into lapped traffic. The second half of the contest was relentless, with passes for the lead executed on nearly every lap, all the while slashing their way past slower riders.

Mees reclaimed the lead with twenty seconds remaining on the clock and then leaned on his decades of experience advantage to cling on for the victory by 0.174 seconds.

While the Mees-Daniels showdown was the headliner (and quite possibly a preview of more to come), the battle for the remaining positions were nearly as exciting. Beach snatched third spot from Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) on the final lap; Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere's BMC Racing Indian FTR750) earned his second top five of the year, outdueling Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Indian FTR750) sixth.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

Australian Max Whale's defending class champion teammate Kody Kopp (No. 18 and No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F respectively) had a massive target on his back after his double win at Daytona, but Whale's was a convincing first victory of the 2023 season.

Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) ended up missing the podium with a 5th place finish, after a huge scrap played out behind him for second. An impressive James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) took second ahead of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F) in third, with Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) fourth.

Morgan Mischler took sixth (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), with Factory Honda CRF450R teammates Trent Lowe (No. 48) and Chase Saathoff (No. 88) in seventh and eighth respectively.

Next Up: The series now heads for the Arizona Super TT (April 1), the Dallas Half-Mile (April 22), Ventura Short Track (May 6), the Sacramento Mile (May 13), and the Red Mile at Lexington, Ky., on May 27 before a three-week gap to Round 9, the last in the sequence of Mile races at DuQuoin, Il., on June 17. After which the first of a four-race run of Half-Miles kicks-off with the popular Lima, Ohio Half-Mile on June 24.

www.americanflattrack.com

Indian Riders Fest (IRF)

Indian Riders Fest and 'AMD Approved' Budweis Custom Show 

Czechia, June 9-11, 2023

Indian Motorcycle has announced official support for the 2023 staging of the Indian Riders Fest (IRF), which is expected to be the world’s largest gathering of the third annual Indian Motorcycle owners following the impressive attendance at the 2022 event. Located in Ceské Budejovice (Budweis), Czech Republic, the festival will center around a large event village in the city exhibition grounds and will see a rich program of events from June 9-11, 2023. 

Additionally, the Budweis Custom Show at the IRF is to be one of the first to be part of the new 'AMD Approved' international custom bike show program.

The IRF is designed to bring riders from Europe and beyond to Budweis to share their passion for the iconic Indian Motorcycle brand. Expectations are high that 2023 could set new records after IRF 2022 saw more than 2,500 motorcycles attend the festival and the celebratory parade featured 1,200 Indian motorcycles.

Fred Duban of Dub Performance and co-owner of Indian Motorcycle Luxembourg won the custom FTR prize in 2022.

"IRF 2023 will include all the elements that made previous editions successful, beginning with freedom and friendship. The Indian Riders Festival is undoubtedly an international event, with attendees from over 37 nations, and the organization team is thrilled to welcome Indian Motorcycle again as a main partner,” said show organizer Jean-Marie Guyon.

Grant Bester, Vice President International for Indian Motorcycle, said: “Our Indian Motorcycle Riders groups throughout Europe have really gained momentum in recent years, and the desire for special destination events is evident from the outstanding success of IRF 2022. Interest in the festival has only continued to grow and I feel certain that the 2023 event will again be the largest gathering of Indian Motorcycle owners anywhere in the world. We’re delighted to continue and expand our support for the IRF and I really look forward to being among the riders in June.” 

'expected to be largest gathering of Indian Motorcycle riders in the world'

There will be a genuine apparel shop, the Indian Motorcycle roadshow truck offering test rides on the latest models, an official Indian Motorcycle dealership presence providing full servicing and maintenance, and the chance to win a customized Indian Challenger in the big prize raffle.

Creative talent will be on display in the 'AMD Certified' Budweis Custom Indian Motorcycle Show, there will be Indian Motorcycle heritage on show in the vintage motorcycle exhibition, a Wall of Death and an FTR stunt show.

The Saturday parade has become a highlight of the festival and has grown from 465 Indian motorcycles in 2019 to 1,200 last year. Now, the organizers are preparing a new 25 km route on roads closed especially for the ride in anticipation of breaking the 2,000 Indian Motorcycle mark. The ride will also put a spotlight on women bikers with the Ladies First group heading the parade, following the success of this initiative in 2022.

After a ride through the beautiful Bohemia countryside, the parade will finish at the World Heritage site at the heart of the city in the Premysl Otakar II square, providing a spectacular photo opportunity as the Indian Motorcycle Riders groups lay their flags in the center of the historic square surrounded by their motorcycles.

www.IndianRidersFest.eu

www.budweiscustom.show

Parts Unlimited & Drag Specialties NVP Review part 5

Parts Unlimited & Drag Specialties NVP Review part 5

KB Performance: Marko Glush told AMD that "our recently introduced piston upgrade options for M-8 engines fit the oil and water-cooled engines from 2017 to present with 4.250" bore cylinders." The company's 107" to 124" conversion and 114"/117" to 128" conversion application pistons feature KB's valve pocket technology for up to 3 mm larger valves. The pistons have type 3 hard anodized crowns and top ring groove, with LINE2LINE abradable skirt coating. KB pistons are made in Carson City, Nevada, by United Engine & Machine (UEM); www.uempistons.com

Lyndall Racing Brakes: Recent new products from Paul Kittrell's San Marcos, Texas based factory include stock wheel replacement rotors - a bolt-on replacement for '14-'22 H-D Touring models with 'Prodigy' or 'Enforcer' wheels. Manufactured in high carbon stainless steel, they are an 11.8" spoke-mounted rotor with five bolt holes and 6.7" brake rotor pitch circle diameter (PCD). "They are a perfect match for our premium quality organic brake pads and will also fit H-D 'Aggressor' front wheels when used with 'Enforcer' style bolt hats; www.lyndallbrakes.com

Magnum Shielding: The Pittsford, New York based manufacturer's handlebar installation kits have everything customers need for cable and brake line replacement on H-D models going back to 1996 and Indians back to 2015. "What really sets our kits apart is our vast selection of sizes, colors and kit configurations," according to Magnum's Reese Hurwitz - seen here left with father Scott and Engineering Manager Chris Hughson; www.magnumshielding.com

All Balls Racing: Among the wide range of components relied on by custom V-twin shops, All Balls starter motors are manufactured with all-new components that have been selected and fine-tuned specifically for starting H-D V-twin engines. Product Development specialist Alex Geiger told AMD that "our starter clutches utilize 20% oversize rollers and the idler gears are manufactured from cold-headed steel. End frames are cold chamber die-cast and machined on precision fixtures with armature hairpins resistance-fused to the commutator." All starters are supplied with a 10/32 threaded output shaft, and a conversion bolt for the earlier 1/4-20 threaded output shafts to cover all Big Twins from 1989 thru 2005; www.allballsracing.com

Cometic Gasket: The 'Official Gasket' brand of AFT has been "sealing championship engines since 1989."  Jason Moses told AMD that recent new V-twin products from the Concord, Ohio based manufacturer have included "gaskets for Indian Big Twin, FTR and Scout applications such as Big Bore head gaskets for 2020 and up Indian Challengers in .020" MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) and .010" rubber coated steel base gaskets; www.cometic.com

News Briefs

Ethisphere has named Polaris as one of the 2023 "World's most ethical companies." Polaris says the recognition "honors companies demonstrating business integrity through best-in-class ethics, compliance and governance practices." Ethisphere describes itself as "a global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices."

Congratulations to EagleRider Motorcycle Rentals for securing the exclusive rights to offer rentals and tours on the Harley Pan America in the United States. EagleRider has been pioneering the motorcycle rental and tour business since 1992.

Supported by Russ Brown Attorneys, Speed Kings Cycle Supply (Riverside, California) has announced that it is to put on Moto 'Night Drags' at Willow Springs Raceway on Saturday April 15th, from 6-10 pm.

The MIC reports that legislation requiring dealers to engrave or label catalytic converters with the vehicle identification number was introduced in CA and CT. While in AZ, proposed SB 1468 prohibits motor vehicles, including motorcycles, from being equipped with Xenon gas bulbs or HID LED headlamps, was introduced.

Respected motorcycle crash protection manufacturer R&G Racing has announced a new partnership for the USA with Brands That Shine (Gunnar Heinemeyer and founder Jessica Shine). "The company will work to further boost the growth of R&G in the U.S. through increased dealer support and a heightened presence at the track." The move marks a significant step forward for the British brand as it expands its reach across the U.S. market, with Brands That Shine opening channels and boosting dealer awareness to grow the business in the U.S.

Tucker has changed its transportation and delivery service partner to FedEx, citing advantages such as seven-day delivery (Sunday pick-ups and drop-offs), faster ground service, FedEx Hold at location for secure pickup and Picture Proof of Delivery.

Fox Factory Holding Corp. announced Q4 sales of $408.6m (+19.4%) with gross profits up by +22.0% to $130.9m, compared to $107.3m in the same period last fiscal year. For the FY2022, sales for the twelve months ended December 30, 2022, were $1,602.5m (+23.4%). Sales of Powered Vehicle and Specialty Sports products increased +28.0% and +17.6% respectively. 

MotoAmerica has announced that it will again qualify riders for the 2023 FIM MiniGP World Series through the Mission Mini Cup by Motul Series, but this year will do so in two of the Ohvale-spec classes. Last year, two riders qualified for the World Series in the 160 class, and this year the series will also host qualifying races for the 190 class. There will be five rounds in total.

MotoAmerica is bringing hillclimb action to Laguna Seca. Hillclimbers will attempt to tame the hill that houses the famous Corkscrew as part of the MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey, October 23-25. The Speedfest Motoclimb (Saturday, October 24) 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.

Brembo has announced record results for FY2022 with revenues at € 3,629m, up +30.7% over 2021, with net profit € 292.8m (+35.9%). Its net financial position improved by € 128.6m. EBITDA was € 625.2m (EBITDA margin: 17.2%); EBIT was € 382.8m (EBIT margin: 10.5%). 

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, has announced that the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) contributed more than $500,000 in grant awards for 2022, satisfying a commitment made in honor of National Public Lands Day. "The final funding cycle for 2022 in the fourth quarter provided meaningful support to a wide variety of projects - from California desert clean-up and state-wide riding trail maintenance in Washington to multiuse bridges and trail resurfacing - making public lands sustainably accessible for motorized and outdoor recreation."

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

AIMEXPO 2023 review part 3

AIMEXPO 2023 review part 3

Antigravity: Featuring Bluetooth Battery Trackers, the monitoring system allows the rider to track the battery's voltage, health and status, and notifies if the battery is going dead. Available for lithium and lead/acid batteries, Battery Tracker allows riders to track battery status from their smartphone; www.antigravitybatteries.com

TAB Performance: Casey Pflanz, co-founder, and Bo Blanske from the Lincoln, Nebraska based manufacturer that is best known for its powerful and 'throaty' exhausts. However, Casey is answering the call of the need to diversify, with recent new products including the 'Folsom Prison Series' handlebars that are seen here. The first design is a contemporary 12" widow's peak, semi-ape that is "right on point." The company boasts an easy install due to interior bends that are ground down to a smooth finish, eliminating any ridges for wires to get snagged on. Plus, the 1.5" fatties provide plenty of space for cables. Initially offered for Street/Electra Glide models ('96 and up) and Road Glide models ('15 and up), they give riders a reduced arm reach. TAB are donating 5% of the profits from the sale of the bars to Wheels 4 Warriors USA - a non-profit dedicated to helping veterans - "two wheels at a time"; www.tabperformance.com

GPR Italia: Founded in 1968 and best known in Europe for its sport bike and superbike race exhausts, GPR also offers V-twin shops access to a range of Harley fitments, including for the V-Rod, XR-1200 and 883/1200 cc Sportsters from 2010; www.gpr.it

Spectro Oils:  The Intercontinental Lubricants subsidiary has been bought by the U.S. subsidiary of Swiss oil brand Motorex (manufactured by Bucher AG). The deal sees the assets, including IP, commercial activity and blending and storage operations at Brookfield, Connecticut. Alex Josefson, the founder's grandson and current President of Spectro, is quoted as stating: "We have a longstanding and excellent relationship with Motorex, so when this agreement was first discussed, it seemed like the natural next step for our company"; www.motorex.com

National Cycle: Always quick off the mark where new product applications are concerned, recent new fitments from the Maywood, Illinois based manufacturer include V-Stream Windscreens for Pan America. The patented "V" shape and advanced dimensional contours push the wind vortex away from the rider's head, resulting in a quieter riding environment. Made in 2.0 mm Quantum hard coated polycarbonate; www.nationalcycle.com

Tucker Powersports: New VP Marketing Lesley Madsen joined the Fort Worth, Texas based distributor following seven years running merchandise marketing for the Dallas Cowboys. Her role at Tucker "is focused on delivering impactful marketing programs for the company's 'owned-brands' as well as the products distributed by Tucker." Tucker President and CEO Marc McAllister had announced a restructure of the company's sales and marketing functions as part of a plan to bring new leadership into the company. Almost simultaneous to Lesley's appointment, McAllister hired Prnuv Sharma to the role of VP of Sales; www.tucker.com 

Kuryakyn: Products on show from the Tucker brand included luggage, audio, lights, floorboards, mirrors, pegs and grips; www.kuryakyn.com

Interphone: Cellularline Italia subsidiary - motorcycle communications, phone holders and LED headlights; www.interphone.com

ProTaper: Eboness Belin joined Tucker in 2022 as Senior Manager of Owned Brands, and was answering visitor questions as a ProTaper advocate at AIMExpo; www.protaper.com

SBS Friction

SBS - Multi-Year AFT Partnership Renewal

SBS Friction A/S and Progressive American Flat Track have announced that SBS will continue as the Official Brake Sponsor of Progressive AFT through the 2024 season.

Speaking from its Daytona offices during Bike Week, AFT described SBS as "a dominant force in global motorsports, reeling in dozens of world titles in the decades since its founding in Denmark back in 1964. After earlier proving its capabilities in battlegrounds such as the Superbike World Championship and World Motocross Championship, SBS focused its attention on the world’s pre-eminent two-wheeled dirt track racing championship, joining as an official partner in 2018."

Thomas Midtgaard-Jørgensen, Product and Marketing Manager at SBS, said: "SBS is internationally recognized as a global market leader, a preferred supplier of brake products, especially for race teams, and for our vast research and development capabilities. 

"We were the first company to produce aftermarket disc brakes and to fully integrate the advanced safety features of NRS technology into our brake pads. SBS routinely pioneers the usage of bleeding-edge materials and technologies, not only in racing but also for the consumer aftermarket."

www.sbsbrakes.com

Custom Chrome Europe

Showtime for Harley vs Indian

Custom Chrome Europe (CCE) is backing a new iteration of the springtime "Rheinhessen Rumble" Ride-In bike show in Germany (April 28th-30th) with rebuilt class definitions to set up "Indian vs Harley" battles in all classes. 

Being staged at the "Nahetal Arena" at ClassicX Landhaus and Hotel near Gensingen/Germany, CCE is putting up some € 4,000 in contingency prize value and says that the new concept "may change the nature of Ride-In bike show classes for the future.

"The 'Harley vs. Indian wars' are back - well not quite - but German Harley and Indian custom parts distributor Custom Chrome Europe has taken a bold step to level the playing field to boost the chances of equal custom show competition between the two iconic American brands by changing the rules under which CCE co-organized bike shows will be run in the future." 

The event is being staged some 4 km from CCE's European HQ and warehouse at Grolsheim. Last year saw a Ride-In bike show added to the "Rheinhessen Rumble" for the first time, and CCE says that "this bike show will be the first in the world to be structured to recognize the growing importance of Indian custom bikes and stock conversions, with both brands 'fighting it out' in the same classes.

There will be four classes, updated from the "classic" CCE Faak Ride-In bike show that has been a staple on the European bike show circuit for years - the primary Championship class, Modified Harley/Indian, Jammer Old School (now integrating Choppers) and Sportster/Scout Engines - which will include customized examples of the new Sportster S and Indian's FTRs.

www.Custom-Chrome-Europe.com

Hawg Halters Inc.

HardDrive 

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, HardDrive, the Boise, Idaho based V-twin distribution brand operated by Western Power Sports (WPS), is aggressively expanding Harley and wider V-twin aftermarket product offerings.

In addition to the news (elsewhere in this edition of AMD) that it has added California based Burly Brand, the latest announcement is of the addition of the HHI (Hawg Halters Inc., Georgia) range of brakes, wheels and Bagger accessories and conversion kits.

Initial HHI product inventory in the seven-warehouse WPS distribution center network includes four and six-piston dual caliber kits, clutch perch and cable assemblies and Dominator triple tree sets, with more to be added.

"This year marks a milestone for HardDrive, and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate it with such great, strong new brands. HHI is known for its high-performance braking and control components in polished, chrome and anodized in the V-twin custom parts marketplace," said Krys Brown, V-Twin Product Director at HardDrive.

"Our dealers will receive these new products via one to two-day shipping," said Brown. "The open-ended partnership with Burly Brand and HHI demonstrates HardDrive's desire to continue to grow our brand and dominate the V-twin marketplace in this milestone anniversary year."

www.hdtwin.com

S&S Cycle

132" Big Bore Kits for 2017-2022 CVO M-8 engines

S&S Cycle has envisioned its popular 132" big bore kit for 2017-2022 CVO M-8 models - right down to color-matching it to the unique Black Granite stock CVO engines.

Recently released, these 4.320" bore by 4.5" stroke kits for the 114 and 117" CVO models push the cubic inches to 132 cubic inches (well over 2,000 cc). Married to one of its cams, the company's latest big bore kit nearly doubles the horsepower. "The 11:1 compression on pump gas and the stone reliable build quality that S&S is known for makes for the perfect combination of asphalt-eating power and the long-term reliability to get you far from home and back again. 

"No case mods, no engine removal, just a massive set of jugs, designed, tested and manufactured at the Viola, Wisconsin S&S Cycle home of 'Proven Performance'."

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com

Arlen Ness Enterprises

'Method' Series Hand Levers

New from Dublin, California based Arlen Ness Enterprises, these forged billet aluminum 'Method' Series hand levers feature a performance-inspired design with an ergonomic shape and short length.

Each lever is CNC machine-shaped to enhance the feel and comfort of the factory hand controls with a performance-inspired 'Shorty' length design that features a comfortable ergonomic shape that molds to the shape of the hand for faster brake and clutch function. They are black anodized finished with laser-engraved Arlen Ness logo.

Fitment includes '96-'17 Big Twins with cable clutch; '15-'17 and '18 and up Softails; '08-'13 and '17 and up FLT. 

ARLEN NESS ENTERPRISES

www.arlenness.com

Comment by Editor-in-Chief, Robin Bradley

AMD 'Approved' Custom Bike Show Program 

The reaction to our decision to 'retire' the AMD World Championship has been one of widespread and, literally, worldwide disappointment among custom bike builders and AMD 'Affiliate' event organizers.

The feedback from 'builders' - competitors and otherwise - is that the program provided a focus for the custom-build market and represented an inspirational, motivational and aspirational goal. 

The positive effect that the program has had on custom show conduct, staging values and judging integrity expectations has also been appreciated by many who now worry that without an industry scheme, some of the old problems that plagued custom shows could return.

Many of the event organizers who were involved in the 'AMD', those who were dedicated to doing it well and had the interests of the custom bike industry at heart, have told us that the recognition by 'AMD' was valuable to them as it was respected by competitors and recognized by consumers in their countries as having real meaning and event credential.

As we commented when announcing the "permanent suspension" of the program some months ago, we are fully aware of the respect in which it was held, the value placed on it and the positive effects that it had on 'raising the bar' - both in terms of bike build quality recognition and event conduct standards. 

www.custombikeshow.se

www.bikerfest.it

www.indianridersfest.eu

www.budweiscustom.show

Walking away from that positive role wasn't something that we here at AMD were happy about. However, just as starting out down that path was a 'child of its times' back-in-the-day, then so too knowing when to walk away and leave the stage open for a new concept, a new formula, and new players to emerge was as important at this time as the start of the undertaking had back in the 1990s.

The times are different now, and I'm pleased to say that, budgets apart, most of the show staging problems that gave rise to the 'AMD' program are now largely in the market's rear-view mirror. If custom bike shows are going to be able to reconcile their two, often conflicting priorities, it is time for new ideas and options to emerge.

Those two priorities are to honor and showcase the custom motorcycle design and engineering values of the past, and to be able to address the future by embracing the ever-changing 'direction of travel' that drives the evolution of motorcycle design and engineering. 

What was once cutting-edge and radical is now 'retro' and nostalgia. The industry needs events that will showcase the new radical, will create new experiences and new memories. It both needs to keep the flames alive and find new flames.

Having deliberately taken our time about our decision-making and planning, there is now a clear void and the opportunity to 'seed' a new vision of international Custom Bike Show coordination and recognition to help those new concepts emerge, to provide a platform from which a new direction of travel for the custom bike show sector can emerge.

In direct response to feedback from builders, event organizers and well-known industry collaborators, AMD is therefore launching a new version of its 'Affiliate' program - the 'AMD Approved' program.

A seal of approval that provides recognition and profile for custom shows that, no matter how different they are to each other, do nonetheless share our values, care about the interests of their competitors and about the quality and future of custom motorcycle design and engineering.

This is no 'show conduct playbook', this is not a show structure cookie-cutter, but it is an indication that the show is serious about giving its visitors a quality experience and the chance to see the best possible custom bikes, while also giving their competing guests the best possible platform to showcase their work.

At this stage, there is no pathway to any kind of finals concept, this is not the comeback of the 'AMD' World Championship event, but it is a brand carry-forward that event organizers and their competitors can use. They can use it as a signal of intent that they understand the importance of doing their best to "do the right thing" where custom show organization, conduct, judging and integrity are concerned.

Is it an endorsement of the show by AMD Magazine? Is it accreditation by AMD? Is it certification? Well, yes to all those to varying extents, but it is a badge of approval that can also be withdrawn at any time if the majority feedback from builders about the event is negative. We will work with organizers on a consultancy basis to advise and help them make their show the best it can be, but 'Approval' is annual and is not automatically renewed.

With this new program announcement, we can confirm the first three events that are 'AMD Approved' for 2023. With 'Custom Bike Show' operated by Twin Club MC in Sweden (first weekend of June) and 'Biker Fest' (Italy, May 18-21), operated by Moreno and Micke Persello of Bikers Life fame, we are recognizing the oldest custom shows, and two of the longest established and most internationally respected of the events from the former 'AMD Affiliate' program.

Plus, we are recognizing a new event to the 'AMD Family' - the Indian Riders Fest in Czechia and its associated 'Budweis' Custom Show (June 9-11, 2023). Not a new event, it has, however, made great progress in terms of its status, backing and profile in the past 24 months. 

It represents a genuine first for AMD, and for the international custom motorcycle market in general, as the first show that is 100 percent dedicated to past and present Indian motorcycles.

ShowZONE

 

2023 

Biltwell 100

Ridgecrest, CA, US • Apr 1 

www.biltwell100.com

Spring Motorcycle Show

Toronto, CA • Apr 1-2

motorcyclespringshow.com

Handbuilt

Austin, TX, US • Apr 14-16

www.revivalcycles.com

Tallahassee Bike Fest

Tallahassee, FL, US • Apr 14-16

www.tallybikefest.com 

Moto At The Mall

Elyria, OH, U.2S • Apr 22

The One Show

Portland, OR, US • Apr 28-30

www.the1moto.com

Texas Motorcycle Rally

Austin, TX, US • May 5-7

republicoftexasmotorcyclerally.com

Myrtle Beach Bike Week - Spring 

Myrtle Beach, SC, US • May 12-21

myrtlebeachbikeweek.com

Bagger Shootouts 1

Ampfing, DE • May 13

www.baggerpartyrace.de

Biker Fest International (37th)

Lignano Sabbiadoro, IT • May 18-21

www.bikerfest.it

Last Highway Show

Poconos Park, PA, US • May 19-21

www.losthighwayshow.com

European Super Rally

Igoumenitsa, GR • May 24-28

www.superrally.com

Bike Shed Show

London, GB • May 27-29

www.bikeshedmoto.com

Americade (40th)

Lake George Village, NY, US • May 31-Jun 4

www.americade.com

Custombike Show

Norrtaelje, SW • Jun 3

www.custombikeshow.se

Budweis Custom Show, Indian Riders Fest

Budweis, CZ • 9-11 Jun

www.budweiscustom.show

Laconia Motorcycle Week (100th)

New Hampshire, US • Jun 10-18

www.laconiamcweek.com

Born Free

Silverado, CA, US • Jun 24-25

www.bornfreeshow.com

AFT news

Progressive AFT 2023 - Season Underway 

In the run-up to the season opening Short Tracks at Daytona in March, there was a slew of AFT news as the AMA, the teams, their riders and their all-important backers wiped the winter from their eyes and prepared to race into spring sunshine. 

One of AFT's biggest backers - Progressive Insurance - announced that it is continuing with the series sponsorship, signing a new multi-year continuation of its landmark partnership as series Title Sponsor naming rights partner and Official Insurance Company of Progressive AFT.  

Founded in 1937, Progressive boasts being the United States' leading motorcycle insurer and first became series sponsor in 2020 and has expanded its support of the sport over the years through digital and experiential activations at events. 

"Progressive has played an integral role in accelerating American Flat Track's growth over the last few years and we truly appreciate its continued partnership," said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. 

Bryan Smith has been appointed as AFT Series Director

Meanwhile, Royal Enfield North America (RENA) and Yamaha have again been named Official OEM Partners of Progressive AFT for 2023. Royal Enfield's multifaceted partnership has been a "model of innovative collaboration" and has enjoyed an impressive degree of success on the racetrack as its racing effort continues to evolve.  

Since the Royal Enfield Twins FT made its debut in 2020, the team has celebrated multiple podiums in the Mission Production Twins class, including a historic win at the Lima Half-Mile in 2021 - a first-ever feat for the historic brand.  

Its hugely popular 'Build. Train. Race.' (BTR) program highlights, celebrates and encourages the involvement of women in flat track racing, injecting new talent into AFT events across the United States - both experienced and beginner racers - to compete aboard customized INT650 motorcycles. Royal Enfield aims to continue this innovative program in 2023 at select Progressive AFT rounds. 

Meanwhile, MotoAnatomy Powered by Royal Enfield has announced a two-rider team for the premier class in 2023 - Johnny Lewis will race for a fourth season, and Ryan Wells added to the roster. Lewis carded multiple podium finishes in the last two seasons, including that historic Lima Half-Mile win 2021, and Ryan Wells is an established force in Progressive AFT, competition as the 2016 Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champion and ranking among the Singles' class all-time winningest riders.  

Yamaha's returns as an Official OEM AFT Partner for 2023 after an extremely strong showing in 2022, scoring race wins and contending for championships up and down the class structure. Most notable was the incredible strides it made in the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle category.  

Yamaha has again been named Official OEM Partners of Progressive AFT for 2023.

The Estenson Racing Yamaha's terrific tandem of Dallas Daniels and JD Beach combined to secure six victories, 15 podiums and 27 top fives. The duo finished a close third and fourth in the final standings after battling for the crown all season long in what was Yamaha's greatest championship showing since the days of Kenny Roberts in the mid-1970s. 

As part of Yamaha's impressive commitment to the series, it will also serve as the title sponsor of the Yamaha Senoia Short Track, which will take place on March 25 at Senoia Raceway in Senoia, Georgia - located just down the interstate from Yamaha's U.S.-based Headquarters in Marietta, Georgia.  

It has been a busy off-season in management terms for the AMA. The latest appointment of note is that of Bryan Smith as AFT Series Director, transitioning immediately from his prior role as the Director of Industry Relations. 

"Over the last year, Bryan has consistently demonstrated the leadership capabilities that are necessary to take on even greater responsibilities with the series," said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. "Bryan's ability to leverage the knowledge he's gained over the course of his motorcycle racing career as both a factory rider and championship-winning privateer will also be critically important as we form future strategies for the sport." 

Smith's race accolades include winning the Grand National Championship as a Kawasaki-mounted privateer in 2016 before becoming a factory rider, racing on the Indian Motorcycle and Harley-Davidson squads in subsequent seasons. "His understanding of the sport as a competitor, tactician, historian, mechanically minded rider, and now, series' staffer makes him uniquely well suited to tackle his new role as Series Director." 

In other news, the AMA honors Ryan Varnes with the 2023 Ryan Varnes 68 Memorial Scholarship being awarded to a current-year AFT licensed rider that is competing in SuperTwins, AFT Singles or the Royal Enfield (Build. Train. Race.) divisions. The scholarship will be awarded to a rider who has been accepted into an educational institution for 2022-2023, with the award - a minimum of $1,500 - being based on academics and not competition results (www.rv68foundation.org). 

AFT has also announced that it has partnered with 'All Kids Bike' to support its national movement to place Kindergarten PE Learn-To-Ride Programs into public schools. Launched in 2018, 'All Kids Bike' has already supported more than 800 schools across all 50 states, providing thousands of children the opportunity to experience the joy of two wheels via an inclusive, proven Learn-To-Ride curriculum (https://allkidsbike.org). 

Daytona Beach, Florida based Solar-Fit has been announced as the returning Official Solar Contractor of Progressive AFT for the 2023 season. The company was also the sponsor of its home round, the season-opening Daytona Short Track I & II at the Daytona International Speedway in March. 

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires has extended its official tire support for AFT racing once again - for the seventh straight year - and is continuing the successful Team Dunlop Elite Flat Track program to support amateur racers and continues to include minibike racers. 

Mike Buckley, Dunlop Sr. Vice President of Sales/Marketing, is quoted as saying: "Dunlop's support of amateur racing is unparalleled in the United States. We expect the Team Dunlop Flat Track Elite program will assist riders in their journey to the professional ranks, just as the motocross alumni have over the years." 

This year, Jess Reynolds, who was a part of the program since its inaugural year, has graduated out of the program and is on her way toward her AFT professional racing debut, as a Team Dunlop Elite Alumni. She will join the ranks of other alumni, including Chase Saathoff, Logan McGrane, Billy Ross, and many more. 

Klotz Synthetic Lubricants and Cometic Gasket have signed multi-year partnerships with eight-time Champion Jared Mees. Klotz Synthetic Lubricants is the Official Lubricant of AFT and Cometic Gasket the sport's Official Gasket. 

New for the 2023 season, the Pronto/Parts Plus Pole Award will see each of the season's fastest qualifiers in both Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle and Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER awarded a $500 "Big Check" during the opening ceremonies. The Pronto Network includes more than 200 wholesale distributors, 1,500 auto stores, and 4,000 service centers.   

Progressive AFT has announced a multi-year partnership renewal with KICKER Performance Audio to continue as both the presenting sponsor of the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER class as well as the Official Performance Audio of Progressive AFT. 

Founded nearly a half-century ago as a two-man operation run out of a one-car garage, Stillwater, Oklahoma-based KICKER has since developed into a global power that designs and ships its high-performance audio products from its 280,000 sq ft facility. 

KICKER products will once again be awarded to the podium finishers at each Progressive AFT event, and the 2023 Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER champion will be awarded a full custom installation of new KICKER high-performance products in a vehicle of their choice. 

Progressive AFT fans will directly benefit from the renewed partnership as well. KICKER is set to expand its custom PA presence at the racetrack, adding a second custom mobile sound system to ensure a spectacular aural experience across the Mission Paddock Hospitality, Victory Lane and the Progressive AFT Marketplace.  

VP Racing Fuels has been named official fuel supplier for the fourth consecutive year.

VP Racing Fuels, Inc. will serve as both the series' Official Fuel Supplier and Official Performance Coolant for a fourth consecutive season in 2023. Founded in 1973 and described as "the world leader in fuel technology," VP Racing Fuels "have fueled champions in virtually every form of motorsport since powering more race winners than any other brand, dominating both two- and four-wheeled motorsport across a wide array of series and disciplines all across the globe". 

AFT has confirmed that Arai Helmet, Inc. will continue in its role as the series' Official Helmet for a sixth straight season in 2023. 

Producing motorcycle helmets for more than 70 years, "Arai is globally recognized as the world's premier helmet manufacturer. And despite its remarkable motorsport successes over the decades - including numerous titles across Progressive AFT, Formula 1 and MotoGP among countless other series - it remains a small, family-owned company. 

Arai has been named as official helmet for the sixth consecutive year.

"Arai's roots in American racing actually began in flat track, with our very first U.S. sponsored racer in the late 70s," said Brian Weston, Managing Director of Arai Helmet, Inc. "Arai first began racing support to learn and improve, and even after more than 40 years, we continue to apply lessons learned on the racetrack to the helmets we make for our customers.  

"We make only one level of helmet for all of our customers - racers and street riders alike - the very best helmet we can make for rider protection. Arai proudly puts its family name on every helmet it makes." 

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