Custom Nationals

Custom Nationals – "The Show Goes On" 

August 1-2, 2025 

Autohof Strohofer Event Hall, Geiselwind, Germany 

Launched this year as a successor to the popular "Bike and Music Weekend" at Geiselwind in Germany, Custom Nations is a statement of intent, signalling that "the show will go on".

In its new guise, and as an AMD Approved event, the format is new, and the focus is on high-end customizing. Based on the legacy of two major parts of the former "Bike & Music", the show will combine "a state-of-the-art high-class custom bike show" and the traditional "drive-in" US Car & Hot Rod Show now held at the "Showmile" and Paddock Area outside the Strohofer Event Hall at Geiselwind, which will now will host the indoor bike show event with the 'Dealer Mile' and live music on an outdoor stage to round-out the features. 

With 25 plus years of experience organizing the 80-100 entry at the former "Bike & Music" bike show, the same team has created a state-of-the-art online sign-in procedure to allow as many national and international pro, semi-pro and private customizers to display their craftsmanship in a sympathetic, classy, air conditioned environment, "sharing their latest custom bike creations with the industry and the public audience."

There is an estimated maximum of approximately 150-160 entry spots in the Show Hall, with pre-registration by mid-June described essential to receive confirmation of entry, before the show – if you are reading this after then you should email the team to "ask the question".

At the time of writing, some 90+ "top bikes have already signed in, including internationally respected names such as Thomas Habermann, Gietl Bikes, Harley-Davidson Würzburg Village, Krawallrad, House of V-Twin, Siggi's Psycho Cycles, Lucke Motorcycles, 7-Haar Bikes, RV-Bike Tech, 318 Prowlers, CNC Tanglest, 'Customs of Slovakia', former winner Black Steel Choppers and many others."  

Two of the three former AMD World/European Championship photographers, Thunder Media's Frank Sander and "Motographer" Horst Roesler will be present to supervise the "AMD approved" bike show judging and promote the event and bikes worldwide.

The show will feature 16 classes and special awards that are open to ALL motorcycles from scooters to radical custom and handcrafted one-off motorcycles – including Ratbikes, stock Classic/Vintage, custom Classic/Vintage, Clubstyle, Café Racer (all brands, Café Racer style). Classes include:

Custom Touring - all Touring bikes featuring bags in stock version 

Custom Street bikes - all modified "Naked Bikes"   

Streetfighter - all Streetfighter type bikes, all brands 

Custom Sportbike - all modified Sportbikes feat. fairings

Custom Metric Cruiser - all Cruiser/Chopper/Custom bikes, NOT powered by  US-made motor 

US Bikes (up to 1,250 cc) - all customized US bikes, Harley, Indian, Victory and others, displacement lower than 1,250 cc 

US Bikes (1,250-up cc) - all customized US bikes, Harley, Indian, Victory and others, Big Twin or V8 powered, displacement OVER 1,250 cc  

Custom - all bikes with frame modifications or engines of different manufacturers (S&S, Ultima, RevTech, Japanese & European engines in Custom-frames) 

Radical Custom Bikes - completely radical and built from scratch

www.custom-nationals.de  

Bajaj Auto

Indian Conglomerate Bajaj Auto Is Now 'Effective' Owner of KTM

Despite months of industry speculation citing all sorts of different ownership end game scenarios, bankrupt Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM is now, effectively, under the ownership of its long-time partner and, formerly, 49% stakeholder, Bajaj Auto in India.

However, in the true tradition of byzantine KTM corporate structures, it wasn't as simple as someone in India simply hitting 'send' on a bank transfer.

First of all, Bajaj strung out its fresh investment until as close to the critical May 23 deadline for creditors to receive the (reluctantly) agreed 30% of the debt as possible (some € 548m/$626m was needed).

Second, Baja Auto in India hasn't actually used its, or the owning family's own money. The money has been borrowed by Bajaj Auto International Holdings BV, Netherlands ('Bajaj Auto BV') with the Dutch subsidiary taking out a loan in Europe for € 566m (approx. $646m) - facilitated and backed by Citigroup, JPMorgan Chase and DBS Bank of Singapore. Bajaj had previously provided an additional $200m of interim working capital.

A May 19 statement released by Bajaj Auto and another released by (former?) KTM parent company Pierer Mobility AG on May 20 confirmed that the finance was now in place to meet the requirements of the KTM AG court managed restructuring plan on time.

"it is dealers who will repay the loan"

This saga has seen the 'KTM and sister brands' (Husqvarna and GasGas) trigger some 1,000 lay-offs and needing to get its arms around over € 2bn (nearly $2.3bn) of debt.

It is KTM AG, KTM Components GmbH and KTM Forschungs & Entwicklungs GmbH that have been restructured and KTM AG that has been granted a € 450m/$514m loan by 'Baja Auto BV'.

Therefore, having been in financial trouble, KTM AG has been loaded with debt in order to escape being in financial trouble. While Bajaj Auto BV stands as principal for the loan, common sense dictates that the effective repayment capital will be bled from the profits that the dealer network generates for their OEM partner from future unit sales.

Most of that unpaid debt now sits as debt in the balance sheets of KTM's unsecured creditors (its suppliers) and investors, giving the 'KTM' balance sheets a significant post-restructuring boost of around € 1.3bn/$1.5bn from having been able to 'dump the debt'.

While the post-deal 'KTM' structure remains as complex as ever, what is now known is that Pierer Bajaj AG is the majority shareholder of PIERER Mobility AG with Pierer Industrie AG holding a 50.1% stake in Pierer Bajaj AG. The remaining 49.9% stake is held by 'Bajaj Auto BV'.

Subject to regulatory approvals, "indirect control" over PIERER Mobility AG will pass to 'Bajaj Auto BV' "until the end of May 2026." This may sound like an interim solution, but Bajaj holds all the cards here.

Among other changes, the Annual General Meeting on June 23, 2025, will include the formal departure of Stefan Pierer and the addition to the supervisory board of Bajaj Auto CFO Dinesh Thapar. ­­­

News Briefs

The sales decline at Can-Am, Ski-doo, Sea-doo and Rotax owner BRP continued in its 2024/2025 Q4 period to January 31st, 2025, with sales revenue down by -19.7% (CAN$2,097.6m) as demand in north America for recreational powersports products continues to soften. Like other manufacturers BRP is also struggling to be able to reduce inventory as demand continues to slide - especially in snowmobile terms, in a season hit by lower sales due to much reduced and much later snowfall. BRP unit retail sales were - 21% compared to the prior year and additionally cited market share loss in ORV due to high non-current inventory from other OEMs. PSB reports that "given the ongoing global tariff disputes and the uncertainty surrounding any potential changes to trade regulations, BRP is deferring providing financial guidance for FY26."

Cardo Systems has partnered with Roland Sands Design to release a limited edition PACKTALK PRO RSD - "born from a collaboration with legendary custom bike builder, racer, and designer Roland Sands"; www.cardosystems.com, www.rolandsands.com

Krämer Motorcycles USA has partnered with premium Italian workshop equipment brand LV8 for trackside workbenches and tool storage units for use in the racing trailer they will have at each MotoAmerica Talent Cup round - providing trackside services to Talent Cup teams and WP Suspension users; www.kramermotorcyclesusa.com, www.lv8.it

German sport bike builder Kramer Motorcycles (Burghausen, southern Germany) has seen its USA operation achieve an all-time sales record in 2024, more than doubling its 2023 unit sales volume there, doubling its gross revenue over the same period and quadrupling its business size there in just three years. Kramer USA is headed up by Joe Karvonen and former 'Asphalt & Rubber' race and industry blogger Jensen Beeler. As a go-to brand for racers and track day enthusiasts seeking turnkey, dedicated track and racing motorcycles, the sales growth was led by the limited special edition GP2-890 RR with their EVO2-690 single additionally notching wins against top-level Twins Cup competitors. In addition to the Hooligan style GP2-890 XX naked announced at EICMA last year, Kramer's new APX-350 MA is set to be the 'Spec-Bike' for the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup - the new race entry level series for ambitious and talented 14–21-year-olds. The series is a stepping stone into the Red Bull Rookies Cup, as an official part of the "Road to MotoGP" program in USA.

The MIC has published fresh consumer sentiment data (April 20) based on the University of Michigan's latest survey - and the findings are not pretty. Consumer confidence in the U.S. economy fell for the fourth consecutive month, bringing overall sentiment down more than 30% since December 2024. Buckner Nesheim, MIC Director of Research and Statistics, said these numbers warrant close attention - "the survey, updated monthly, tracks how consumers feel about the economy, offering insights critical for industries like ours that rely on discretionary spending. The latest survey results suggest caution. Declining sentiment can suggest that consumers may hesitate on big-ticket powersports purchases due to economic uncertainty;" www.mic.org

The Cologne Exhibition Centre (Koelnmesse) in Germany that hosts the (now annual and pre-Christmas timed) INTERMOT Expo has announced that it has to fold another of its "transport industry" event initiatives. After just three shows, the polisMOBILITY expo and conference will not take place in June 2025 as planned. An abbreviation for Metropolis Mobility, this city transport, green and sustainable transport policy initiative was backed by the Cologne City Council and the Nord Rhine Westphalia regional Government; www.intermot-cologne.com

RideApart.com has reported that Chinese automaker BYD recently unveiled an EV charging system capable of delivering a massive 1,000 kW of power, cutting recharge times to just five minutes. "This technology could reportedly add around 250 miles of range in the time it takes to grab a coffee."

The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride 2025

Record Year for 2025 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Staged in Cities and venues worldwide, the May 18 2025 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride has been described as a "Global triumph, raising record sums for Men's Health Awareness charities with events involving over 125,000 classic and vintage motorcycle riders in 1,038 Cities in 108 countries.

"The global Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR), saw riders united by a passion for motorcycling and dressed in dapper attire, celebrate their combined contributions to men's mental health and prostate cancer research, all on the same day.

"This year's event marked a significant milestone, with participants collectively raising over $7.3m, contributing to a total of just over $60m raised since the event's inception in 2012." 

Founded by Australian Mark Hawwa, the DGR has grown into the world's largest charity motorcycle event, supported by Triumph Motorcycles for the 12th consecutive year. The event's global reach and community spirit have supported Movember's effort for 10 years in 2025, marking an impressive milestone of the event's impact on men's health.

"The DGR community continues to exemplify the power of unity and style in driving positive change. Every year, our community unites to raise critical funds and awareness to prostate cancer and men's mental health," says Mark Hawwa.

"To see so many riders taking to the streets in so many countries is nothing short of extraordinary. We've reached incredible milestones together. 2025 marks 10 years of support from Movember, and with their partnership, we've been able to include men's mental health alongside prostate cancer. It's inspiring to witness how far we've come - and it's all thanks to the dedication of our riders, hosts, and supporters who continue to make this movement matter."

Partners in 2025 included Hedon, ELF Lubricants, Quad Lock & BRETT Eyewear. 

www.gentlemansride.com

Petersen automotive Museum in Los Angeles

The American Motorcycle - Petersen Museum, LA

Now open at the Petersen automotive Museum in Los Angeles, "The American Motorcycle" is a specially crated exhibit featuring "Pioneering machines from the Bunch Family Collection".

The new exhibit showcases over 25 rare motorbikes from the turn of the century to the 1930s - selected from one of the most extensive and internationally renowned collections in the world. "The exhibit will highlight some of the rarest and most historically significant motorcycles ever produced and explore the contributions of American motorcycling pioneers."

Featured motorcycles include an 1898 Cleveland Tricycle, one of America's oldest motorized cycles from a pioneering manufacturer, featuring the first front spring fork suspension; a 1904 Thomas Auto-Bi, created by the E.R. Thomas Company, the first motorcycle manufacturer in America to design and build its own bikes, a 1905 Nelk, one of the few surviving models from this Palo Alto manufacturer, featuring advanced technology for its time, including a rubber-mounted engine, water-cooling, and an overhead camshaft; and a 1911 Marvel, designed by the legendary Glenn Curtiss. 

www.petersen.org

S&S Cycle

S&S Announces Promotions 

S&S Cycle continues to refine its management structure and team, with the Promotion of Charlie Hadayia to Executive VP-Business Development.

Hadayia spent time at S&S from 1998-2010 before returning in June 2024. His prior tenure at S&S, combined with vast industry experience and relationships, acquired during his time away, put him in a strong position to influence the future of S&S Cycle.

Charlie Hadayia, Executive VP-Business Development

In the role of Executive VP, Hadayia will work directly with board leadership in developing and executing strategy with broad responsibilities.

In additional news, another recent re-hire, Howard Kelly, has also been promoted to VP-Marketing. Kelly has been back with S&S Cycle since September 2024, having previously worked at with the Viola, Wisconsin home of 'Proven Performance' from 2004-2009. 

Additional recent promotions include the promotion of 23-year S&S veteran Rob Andolsek to the "pivotal new role" of Sales and Technical Support Manager. His S&S career experience includes time as Product Development Project Lead, Product Line Manager and Sales Engineer. Notably Andolsek led both the Stealth Air Cleaner and T-143 Projects.

Returning to S&S as Senior Manager of Warranty and Benchmarking, Justin Bramstedt previously worked at S&S from 1999 to 2016, filling several titles, including Development Engineer, Product Line Manager, R&D Manager, NHRA/S&S Race Manager, and Warranty and Remanufacturing Manager. 

Bramstedt was instrumental in the development of the fabled S&S Cycle 145 ci engine, multiple big-bore kits, camshafts, 4.125" engines, and some of the powertrain products S&S released in the past. 

Finally, February saw Jeremy Gilbert return to S&S as the Senior Manager of Special Projects. He originally spent ten years at S&S in a range of manufacturing, tech support and sales roles.

www.sscycle.com 

Zodiac International

Zodiac International - Additions 

Black Duck M8 Softail 2-into-1 

Black Duck Stainless Steel exhausts are designed in Barcelona and made in Spain using state of the art materials and race-proven advanced technology. Developed to maximize engine power and efficiency, the headers come with heat shields to reduce temperature in key areas by up to 50%. 

Mufflers feature removable dB-Killers for track use - this gives a strong 'Bronco' sound without being deafening. Removal of the dB Killer voids the E-approval.  Fitments include Softail Standard, Deluxe, Fat Bob, Heritage, Low Rider, Slim, Sport Glide and Street Bob 2018 to present. 

They fit with most saddlebags when installed in conjunction with Zodiac's docking relocation kit (ZPN 753527/OEM 90201525 available separately). Available in 'Fighter' Straight or 'Pro turnout' styles in satin, matte black or polished finishes.

 

Black Duck Bombardier 4" M8 Softail Slip-ons

Black Duck Stainless Steel slip-on mufflers are designed to maximize engine power and efficiency. These 4" (10 cm) diameter mufflers slip straight onto the stock headers and leave the passenger pegs in the original position. 

Mufflers feature removable dB-Killers for track use. Removal of the dB Killer voids the E-approval. They are available in polished or matte-black for FXBB and FXBBS Street Bob 2018-2024 and FXLR, FXLRS, FXLRST and FXRST Low Rider 2018-2024.

Honeycomb 7" LED Headlight Unit

This E-approved LED headlight unit features high and low beam as well as a Daytime Running Light (DRL) function. Features include a horizontal lighted amber bar for show use, and it fits most 7" headlights but can also be installed without a housing. Unit fits housings with a minimal depth of 70 mm and has a standard 3-post H4 connector. Comes complete with a H13-style adapter wire.  

Honeycomb Road Glide LED Headlight Unit 

This E-approved LED headlight unit features high and low beam as well as a Daytime Running Light (DRL) function. Features include a horizontal lighted amber bar for show use. It is a direct replacement for the OEM headlight unit. It fits all Road Glide 2015-2023, FLTRXSE 2018-2022, FLTRK 2024 and FLTRXP & FLTRT 2024 to present . 

Soundstream Vision Wireless Taillight Camera System 

HD Vision by Soundstream is a wireless rear-view camera system engineered specifically for Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycles. A wide-screen view of the road behind keeps riders aware of approaching vehicles and paint scraping obstacles. 

It is adjustable and built into a waterproof LED light housing the system. The high-quality rear-view image is transmitted to the included wireless receiver that is installed inside the fairing and displayed on a Soundstream or other aftermarket head unit with an RCA camera input. 

Fitment includes H-D models 2014 to present with center mounted taillight with top license plate illumination; available with V1 or V2 head unit. 

Zodiac Mid Glide Front ­Forks by Maselli 

Produced exclusively for Zodiac, Italian suspension specialist Maselli has developed the ultimate upside-down front forks for American V-twin motorcycles that deliver improved handling and damping characteristics. 

Features of these precision-made units include chrome-moly fork tubes, machined aluminum alloy sliders, hard anodized damper rods and smooth clear or black anodized top tubes and wheel axle clamps. 

The triple trees are machined from a block of billet aluminum with a mirror shine polished finish, and then eventually black anodized. Forks feature integrated caliper brackets left and right for use with 2000-up Harley style calipers (except radial type) designed for use with 11 1/2" (292 mm) discs. 

They have smoothened 54 mm aluminum top tubes, 43 mm Chrome-moly inner tubes with a hard chromed or black hard DLC coated finish, completely newly developed damper units with 5 1/2" (140 mm) travel, individual fork spring pre-load adjustment and hidden mount 25 mm wheel axle. 

These forks are for custom fitment in all 4-speed Big Twin chassis, FXR, Evolution Softail, Twin Cam Softail, Evolution Dyna, 2000-2005 Twin Cam Dyna and all pre-2004 Sportster. For street use Zodiac recommend light weight oil SAE 10 and SAE 12.5 or 15 for extreme heavy bikes, extreme or race use. Note - handlebar damper rubbers and bushings will need to be shortened for correct fit.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV

www.zodiac.nl

Feuling Parts

Feuling M8 Anti-Reversion Bagger Systems 

Now available for 2017-2024 Milwaukee Eight Baggers, these Feuling Anti-Reversion Bagger exhausts are a "true high output 2-into-1 exhaust system for performance baggers" that are said to "get the most out of the Bagger M8" engine.

They feature proprietary exhaust technology, including patented AR Chambers that prevent exhaust gas reversion from entering the combustion chamber, allowing the use of larger diameter head pipes while maintaining high velocity gas flow. The Stepped Head Pipe has a 1 3/4 head pipe into the Feuling Anti-Reversion chamber, stepped to 1 7/8 then to a 2". The head pipes enter a true performance merge collector with a 2 3/4 exit into the straight can muffler where the baffle is stepped 2 3/4 to 2 7/8.

This is Anti-Reversion technology that has been incorporated from performance legend Jim Feuling's automotive development work dating back to the 1970s. Designed to increase power, throttle response and fuel economy, as well as reduce carbon deposits and cylinder temperatures, the overlapping bulb chamber inside traps negative exhaust waves carrying heat and spent gases. 

"By blocking these waves, we also reduce exhaust gas from re-entering the combustion chamber," says CEO Luke Leatherman. "This creates a more positive intake charge and crisper throttle response. This will also allow for a leaner tune - increasing fuel economy."

Additionally, Feuling's Stepped 'Dogball' Muffler inserts (Patent #5,173,576) is a concept dating from the early 1990s. They are designed to minimize the drone/hollow noise that is common in straight through mufflers "by absorbing high pitch frequencies, a unique, deep tone is produced while maintaining inertia. 

"This provides excellent low to mid-range torque and a signature high RPM note. The baffles are wrapped with stainless mat then fiberglass packing to extended packing life. The mufflers are finished with a high-flow billet end cap, tapered on the inside for optimal flow and sound."

The hand TIG welded system comes standard with 18mm 02 bungs; adapters are included to run the factory style 12 mm O2 sensors. 

Options include short or long endcap length/shape, pseudo pipes (left side) for symmetrical look, hand brushed or hand polished show finish.

FEULING PARTS

www.feulingparts.com

39th annual Biker Fest International

The Biker Fest International – "Beyond All Expectations"

Lignano Sabbiadoro, Udine, Italy, May 15-18, 2025

Initial estimates suggest that 260,000 bike riders visited the event over the four days of the 39th annual Biker Fest International in Italy – marking an unprecedented and unexpected success.

The organizers have said that the 39th edition of the Biker Fest International (BFI) was a resounding success – "exceeding all expectations. The four-day event will go down in history as a new record-breaking gathering. Not only because of the impressive numbers, but also due to the overwhelming energy that swept through the seaside town, welcoming enthusiasts from all over Italy and neighbouring countries into the party atmosphere and spirit of sharing that represents the true strength of the BFI."

There's no doubt that the father and son team of Moreno and Micke Persello, the owners, and their Biker Fest team, have again raised their own bar in terms of the event's critical mass. Publishers of a range of lifestyle magazines, including the long-established Biker's Life, they are perfectly justified in billing it as Europe's Daytona. In recent years it has grown to become a massive rally.

Every May it opens a season that they themselves close at the end of summer with September's Italian Bikle Week at the same, popular Italian Adriatic coast venue north of Venice. 

Of the many highlights to a packed four-days, the AMD Approved Custom Bike Show again saw a stunning turnout of great custom bikes. One of the most historic Custom Bike Shows in Europe, it too exceeded expectations, rewarding the best of the more than 100 special bikes entered, all of which were of an exceptionally high standard. 

This year, the show was joined by another promising new addition: the first Performance Bagger Show. This put the spotlight on the current trend: racing and sporty baggers, examined and awarded by WSBK legend and Feuling Racing's Ruben Xaus.

Live rock concerts, mototours and spectacular off-road opportunities, rounded out what has now become a genuine lifestyle rally that fires the starting gun on Europe's Harley and custom motorcycle summer riding season.

Next Up: The 4th Italian Bike Week, September 18 to 21, 2025; www.italianbikeweek.net

News Briefs

Polaris has continued its support for off-road and snow organizations with donations of more than $120,000 through its spring 2025 Trails Grants. Polaris has been supporting local riding clubs and organizations for nearly 20-years with more than $3.5m donated to 425 organizations since the program's inception. Awarded twice annually, Trails Grants support the efforts of nonprofit organizations and local riding clubs who use the grant for trail development, maintenance projects, safety and responsible riding education initiatives and other projects. 

MotoGP has scored a significant coup with American broadcasting giant FOX Sports (FS1 or FS2) showing Sprints and Grand Prix races live in the USA from 2025. The premier motorcycle racing class will see 22 Grands Prix in 19 countries this year - making it the biggest season yet for Motorcycle Grand Prix Racing (Madrid, Spain rights holder Dorna Sports is now theoretically owned by Colorado based Formula 1 owner Liberty Media). All races are additionally available via the FOX Sports app, with select races available on FOX Deportes; www.motogp.com

STACYC, the kids electric balance bike brand that Harley bought and subsequently packed into a dark corner as part of LiveWire, is the subject of a brand extension that sees it now "growing up" with the launch of the 20hDRIVE, its first-ever pedal-assist electric bike for adults. The 20 mph, class 2 e-bike performance 20hDRIVE features both pedal assist and twist throttle functionality and comes with 20"x 4" high-volume tires, 500W brushless hub motor, and three speed modes. It is powered by two 36V 6Ah STACYC batteries that are said to take just 45 minutes each to charge using the same STACYC proprietary removable battery system that is shared across its 36V product line. Pricing is from $2,199. 

Durango Harley-Davidson has scooped the prestigious Platinum Bar & Shield award for its success in 2024 - recognizing Durango as one of the top five dealerships in the entire United States. The award isn't only about unit sales but is a testament a store's high quality of customer service, community engagement, and commitment to the brand. It is the highest dealer accolade in Harley's locker. "This award is a reflection of our incredible team, our loyal customers, and the thriving motorcycle culture in Durango," says Trevor Bird, owner at Durango H-D. "We are honored to be recognized among the best dealerships in the nation and will continue to provide top-tier service, events, and experiences for our riders;" www.durangoharley.com

Congratulations. If you are reading this in The United States, then you are part of a powersports industry worth $50.9bn. That is the latest market size data that the MIC had in its locker when powersports industry leaders gathered in Washington, D.C. recently to meet and discuss key issues with members of Congress and their staff. Yes, I dare say the subject of tariffs would likely have come up!  In Europe the current metrics that ACEM (the Brussels based NIC equivalent) use when singing for our collective suppers include (but are not limited to) the 21 manufacturing sites and 22 specialised R&D facilities across the continent that are currently operated by the manufacturers that ACEM represents. The latest available data in Europe estimates that the yearly GDP impact of the 40m unit motorcycle sector on the European economy was about €15.9bn. It also generated tax revenues of €13.5bn and jobs for more than 290,000 people, before taking into account the added economic benefits of the manufacturing of motorcycle accessories and activities such as motorcycle sports and other events; www.mic.org, www.acem.eu

Bagger Racing European Cup

Bagger Racing European Cup

Round 1 – Cremona, Italy May 23-25, 2025

Organised by Feuling Racing's Rueben Xaus, new Bagger Racing European Cup is being staged with the help of the Andorran Federation and under the auspices of FIM Europe. 

A first-ever track day dedicated to the high-performance bagger racing scene was staged as a test event at the renowned Parcmotor Castelloli race circuit in Spain in early April.

Race 1 at the Cremona, Italy Circuit 'Angelo Bergamonti'

The first round was at the Cremona Circuit 'Angelo Bergamonti', Italy on May 23-25. There was chaos and carnage aplenty, with Riders from Lithuania, Italy, Israel, Germany, Switzerland and Spain on the starting grid.

 A large crowd and well populated championship village created the same sense of community that BRL is known for in USA – a 'vibe' exemplified and sealed for ever by Lithuanian rider Dainius Suckelis.

He sustained injuries in a fall during practice and made the remarkable gesture, of offering his Harley to Ruben Xaus, enabling the Spaniard to compete in Sunday's race. His Harley had suffered an irreparable engine failure in race one and was forced to retire.

Manuel Grandi, Italy

The weekend's top honors were taken by Italian Manuel Grandi (#52) on an Indian Challenger – taking the Pole and the wins in races one and two. In race one Italian Andrea Tomio (Atomico Racing Team) took second on a Ducati Diavel Bagger ahead of German Andreas Shaeffer on a Road Glide for Harley-Davidson of the Rhein-Neckar Racing Team (Ludwigshafen, Germany) – two countries, three teams, three different brands of bike.

Marco Attanasio (Switzerland, Ducati Diavel V4) was the only other race one finisher from the nine-man field – such was the attrition on men and machines.

Rueben Xaus, Spain 

Race two saw six finishers, with Andrea Tomio again 'bringing it home' second behind a dominant Manuel Grandi. Dainius Suckelis got payback for his sportsmanship with Rueben Xaus scoring the third podium spot on the Road Glide.

That meant two (kind of three) nationalities represented on the Podium, on two brands of bike for three different teams. The finishers included Kevin Manfredi fourth (Italy, Road Glide), Israel Fahima fifth (from Israel riding a Ducati Diavel V2) and Andreas Schaefer sixth (Germany, Road Glide). 

Next up - the series moves onto the four km Automotodrom Grobnik in Croatia (August 8 to 10), followed by the internationally recognised Circuito Estoril in Portugal (September 12-14) before concluding at the Circuito de Jerez in southern Spain (November 7-9). 

The races can be seen on the official YouTube channel of the Bagger Racing League European Cup.

www.baggereurope.com

Lyndall Brakes

Lyndall Brakes Continues KOTB Sponsorship

San Marcos, Texas based Lyndall Brakes is to continue its sponsorship in the 2025 MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series, "reaffirming its commitment to American performance, innovation, and racing excellence."

Paul Kittrell, CEO of Lyndall Brakes: "It's more than just a sponsorship," according to Paul. "It's a partnership built on shared values - performance, precision, and pride in American engineering."

As part of this ongoing support, Lyndall Brakes is also backing #88 Max Flinders, Team Mad Monkey, and Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson for the full season.

The brake and wheel brand of choice for Team Mad Monkey, Lyndall Brakes is equipping their machines with lightweight, forged aluminum wheels and 13-inch full-floating brake rotors. "Engineered for high-performance racing, these components deliver the strength, heat resistance, and reduced rotational mass demanded at the highest levels of competition" said Paul Kittrell, CEO of Lyndall Brakes.

"Racing is the ultimate proving ground, and we're proud to support Max Flinders and Team Mad Monkey as they push the limits of these heavy cruisers. Our products are 100% made in the USA, and being part of a series like King of the Baggers - where American craftsmanship, engineering and performance shine - is a natural fit for our brand."

www.lyndallbrakes.com

Pirelli

Pirelli - Diablo 'PowerCruiser' Sport Touring Tire

Pirelli had added to its Diablo tire range with the Diablo PowerCruiser. A new range of high-performance Custom-Touring tires designed for custom motorcycles - "especially for the sportiest models such as performance baggers, club style and power cruisers that offer remarkable levels of acceleration and riding pleasure."

"The Diablo PowerCruiser is part of the Diablo family because it embodies Pirelli's sporting DNA, this time applying it to the field of customization. It has been created to meet the needs of these motorcycles, which require specific tyres capable of offering high performance and sportiness, with the aim of becoming the new benchmark in its segment in terms of grip and handling, even in wet conditions."

The range is 'dense', both in construction technology and sizes and includes radial and conventional specifications with dimensions ranging from 100 mm to 260 mm. "Therefore, each size is specifically developed in terms of structure, materials, compounds and profile design according to the motorcycle, adopting different specifications and solutions for specific models."

Leveraging its Supersport and Racing experience, Pirelli says that the Diablo PowerCruiser is "very easy to handle and with high levels of grip - capable of withstanding strong dynamic stresses, both in lean and in braking and acceleration. 

"This behaviour represents the perfect balance between comfort and support, giving riders confidence - on both highway cruising and sportier rides. The radial sizes feature a 0-degree steel belt that contributes to a well-controlled deformation of the footprint, resulting in better tire conformability at all lean angles and better stress distribution across the contact patch - providing an advantage in terms of grip and wear regularity."

The rear radial sizes are bi-compound and enriched with silica, combined with 'Cap & Base' technology that offers a softer lateral compound for grip when tilting, supported by a harder compound substrate also positioned at the level of the central band that guarantees performance consistency and thermal balance. The size of the compound's center tread varies depending on the tire size and contact patch, to ensure the best possible force distribution and thus provide the best possible driving feel and even wear. 

The 'Cap & Base' compound pattern "provides excellent performance during sporty riding while the use of silica provides a wider operating temperature range that promotes a high level of grip, even in wet conditions and consistent performance." Fast heating and adhesion is achieved thanks to an innovative and specially developed blend of resins, plasticizers and silica present in the composition of the compounds. In addition, Pirelli's proprietary and patented mixing process maximizes the dispersion of all components in the polymer matrix to achieve a high level of homogeneity.

Wheels & Waves

Wheels & Waves

June 11-15, Biarritz, France 

This year's annual Wheels & Waves poster (#14 in the collectable series) was designed by Japanese designer Kiichi, (a fan of custom motorcycles and 19th Century French Poet Charles Baudelaire). He was given carte blanche for his own interpretation of this annual staple of European Moto Culture.

Inspired by his impressions during his first visit to Wheels & Waves Biarritz in 2024, the poster is named "Heaven's Door" and is an "invitation for us all to push open the doors of our universe." And, no doubt, see some bikes, drink some beer and spend some money.

Meanwhile, under the Indian Motorcycle tent (again a leading supporter of the event) Ola Stenegärd, Head of Design at Indian Motorcycle will be taking a rather more Swedish American approach to his Indian Motorcycle passion, one influenced no doubt by the post-World War cultural phenomenon that is still to be found in much of Europe and known in Swedish as "Raggare".

So, culture has its place but pass me a beer and let's talk bikes!

www.wheels-and-waves.com

Ola Stenegärd, Head of Design at Indian Motorcycle 

NAMZ Original Stuff

More NAMZ Original Stuff

The NAMZ Original Stuff brand (NOS) was launched by NAMZ Custom Cycle Products (NCCP) founder and CEO Jeff Zielinski at the time of marking the 25th anniversary of his Oreland, Pennsylvania business last year.

PRO Speedometer Harness (Speedo & Tach, Round Gauges) 

Dedicated to helping you to "Do It Right", this new brand concept is a small but passionately dedicated, personally curated line of "parts that have been overlooked for too long," says Jeff.

Initial product lines included an NOS polished stainless steel FXR-style coil cover, a highly polished and extra deep top mounting flange and a NOS polished stainless steel speedometer drive block-off kit.

Handlebar switch and throttle-by-wire harness kit for 2025 Softail

Exactly the kind of over-looked but invaluable originals that can make a job complete. Since then there have been further additions, including a Throttle Body Cover for OEM M8 or aftermarket throttle body, a 'clean look' NOS horizontal or vertical milled Oil Sending Unit Cover to fit over the sensor and connector for all M8 Touring 2017-Up and Softail 2018-Up models, and a Neutral Switch Cover that fits over switch and wiring for 2007-Up Dyna, Softail and Touring models for that clean, finished look.

All of these aluminum covers are machined from billet aluminum, tumble polished before anodizing or professionally hand polished when sold as polished. Unlike most other brands, NAMZ uses stainless steel hardware to prevent rust or corrosion. 

PRO Wiring Harness (Single Round Gauge)

Fresh new designs from "The Ideas Man" include a 100% Plug-n-Play, PVC jacketed replacement PRO Speedometer Harness (for the single round gauge) that is 15" longer than OEM for 2018-up Softail models; also seen here for the dual function Speedo & Tach round gauges.

Also new, is this complete replacement, 100% Plug-n-Play handlebar switch and throttle-by-wire harness kit for 2025 Softail that is 18" longer than stock for 50" total length

NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS

www.namzccp.com

Zodiac

Ride Cooler, Ride Longer

Always on the lookout for "innovative products that offer real value to Harley riders," Zodiac International recently added the Dual-Cool Harley Cooling System - which the company believes is a "standout addition" to its catalog.

Describing it as a solution to the century-old problem of keeping a Harley engine and its vital oil cool under all riding conditions, Zodiac says it has tested The Dual-Cool extensively, in real world conditions and with independent lab tests.

The results speak for themselves with engines running up to 100°F (55°C) cooler resulting in a drop in oil temperature by an impressive 50°F (28°C) with intake air temperature also dropping by 35°F (20°C).

"This results in pure extra horsepower - proven effectiveness, even at idle for over an hour - with all the added benefits of improved engine component life and reliability. 

"We'll admit it," said Zodiac GM Vincent Pels. "We were just as sceptical as anyone else would be when Dual-Cool claimed engine temps could drop by so much, so we had to see for ourselves. We ran the test using a 2018 Harley-Davidson Fat Bob Softail. And the results were convincing.

"We let the engine idle for over an hour, with ambient temps below 65°F (19°C) - pretty mild conditions. Yet, even then, the EITMS (Engine Idle Temperature Management System) kicked in without the Dual-Cool running. Imagine what happens in real-world summer traffic, with 90°F (32°C) or more and nowhere to go. That's when Dual-Cool really earns its keep.

"The data speaks for itself. We've plotted the three key temperatures: engine, oil, and intake air. Without the Dual-Cool, engine temps soared to a critical 320°F (160°C), with both engine and oil temperatures still climbing fast. But with the Dual-Cool running, all temperatures stabilized - making your engine run cooler and safer.

"And with the intake air being much cooler, that denser air simply means more horsepower."

Vincent says that The Dual Cool works on any Harley, no matter what the year; that is performs in any climate, even when it's not blazing hot - "the Dual Cool is essential for parade riding or long idling" - and that the reduced engine heat means improved rider comfort (no more scorched inner thighs!).

The Twin Cam was always regarded as notorious for its cooling problems, but the M8 is even worse according to Vincent. "Fuel Injection tuning or the installation of tuning parts like open air cleaners, open exhausts, performance cams and/or Big Bore kits are well-known to increase cooling problems. 

"The Dual-Cool system is an easy install solution that even improves the looks of the bike. Dual-Cool kits bolt to the horn mount on the left side of the frame, just between the front and rear cylinder heads - it really is that simple. 

"They direct lots of cool air to the cylinder head hot spots, cooling them down to reduce engine and oil temperature and increase engine life. There are choices of Dual-Cool. The Dual-Cool Windstorm is a minimalistic design that solves moderate cooling issues with the Dual-Cool Hurricane featuring bigger ventilator fans that solve even severe cooling issues. 

"The bigger size makes the Hurricane weigh more and this makes the use of a Vibration Tamer kit essential on 2009-2016 Twin Cam Touring and Trike applications and is also recommended on other models that vibrate more than average."

Another Zodiac option - The Vibration Moderator kit – is offered as a design to reduce vibrations and improve the overall efficiency of the Dual-Cool on engines that don't require the heavier duty damping efficiency of the Vibration Tamer - a viable alternative for bikes for which the Vibration Tamer is not available.

Essentially the Dual-Cool as a Plug-n-Play install for 1999-2013 Touring models with others requiring the separate purchase of a model-specific wiring adapter.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV

www.zodiac.nl

King Of The Baggers

2025 King Of The Baggers

May 31-June 01, Elkhart Lake, WI

Round 5 - Wyman Leads Harley Factory Sweep

The fifth round of the 2025 King Of The Baggers season at 'Road America', Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin saw Kyle Wyman taking the win ahead of teammates Bradley Smith, second, and James Rispoli third for a well-received podium sweep for the Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing team, just an hour north from The Motor Company's Milwaukee headquarters.

Wyman was fast from the very first practice session. The winningest rider in KOTB history won his fourth race of the year and the 22nd of his career. Smith finished second for the second time in his debut season in his first visit to Road America. The Brit was strong in the race and even closed on Wyman to come up just .255 of a second behind Harley's team leader after setting the fastest lap of the race on the very last go-around.

Kyle Wyman had his hands full with teammate Bradley Smith in the closing laps of Saturday's Mission King Of The Baggers race at Road America. Wyman led a Harley-Davidson factory sweep of the top three. 

Smith, in turn, was 4.2 seconds ahead of Rispoli at the finish. Rispoli was chased to the flag by S&S/Indian Motorcycle's Tyler O'Hara (on the Indian Challenger), RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson's Hayden Gillim and defending series champion Troy Herfoss, sixth – also on the S&S Indian Challenger.

In the Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing's Sam Drane won his first-career MotoAmerica race with victory on Saturday in the Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul after winning a drafting battle to the finish line.

The race turned into a three-way battle for victory with Drane joined by fellow Australian Bodie Paige and championship points leader Alessandro Di Mario, with just .040 of a second covering the top three.

Kira Knebel kept her perfect win record intact today with her second Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race victory of the season coming in a red-flag-shortened race at Road America. Knebel led all five laps, besting Shae MacGregor by 2.750 seconds.

Round 6 - Herfoss in Dramatic Win

The sixth round, and the second of the two-race weekend at Road America, Lake Elkhart, saw a last corner tussle ending with Briton Bradley Smith crashing out and defending champion Troy Herfoss taking his first win of the 2025 season.

A day after seeing Harley's podium lockout in race one on Saturday, S&S/Indian Motorcycle's Troy Herfoss was determined to take his title defence up a notch. Battling at the front of the pack with an equally intense Bradley Smith, it was a battle between two racers desperately wanting the win. 

Smith led into the final corner on the last lap with the lead, ran wide and left a hole that Herfoss charged through. The pair came to together on the exit with Smith crashing his Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide and Herfoss riding to victory on his Indian Challenger.

Smith's two teammates James Rispoli and Kyle Wyman, meanwhile, watched it unfold right in front of them and raced up the hill to finish second and third, respectively. 

(From left to right) James Rispoli, Troy Herfoss and Kyle Wyman celebrate on the King Of The Baggers podium at Road America. Photo by Brian J. Nelson

Defending series champion Herfoss ended up topping Rispoli by just .229 of a second. For Rispoli, it was a good weekend after a miserable start to his season. Two podium finishes always make a guy feel better and Rispoli had to be pleased with his results.

Herfoss' S&S/Indian Motorcycle teammate Tyler O'Hara finished fourth, hot on Wyman's tail and slightly ahead of RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson's Hayden Gillim. S&S/Indian Motorcycle's Loris Baz was sixth with Saddlemen Race Development's Jake Lewis seventh. TAB Performance Racing's Kyle Ohnsorg, SDI Racing's Cameron Beaubier and Gillim's teammate Rocco Landers rounded out the top 10.

In the second Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul race of the weekend, seven riders were separated by little more than a second with championship points leader Alessandro Di Mario celebrating his high-school graduation in the best possible way with his third win of the season.

In the second Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. of the weekend Miranda Cain won the closest race in series history with topping Camille Conrad by a scant .079 of a second. Cassie Creer finished third, some 13 seconds behind the lead duo.