LiveWire

LiveWire - 'Twist & Go' Promotion in Europe

Harley-Davidson EMEA (or should that be Livewire EMEA?) has announced a sales promotion for select international markets that sounds more like a fire-sale than a love-sharing exercise from a brand in a position of strength.

The news comes not long after 'Milwaukee' had announced the sale of part of its historic Juneau Avenue Headquarters building to house a distillery, and the sale of a 10% chunk of one of the undoubted jewels in it crown - the HDFS Loan Book - to a pair of reputationally challenged investment houses not known for their positive 'bedside manner'.

It looks like 'Cash Really is King' for Harley at this time and that the search is on to find themselves some Kings. Small change down the back of the sofa anyone?

The LiveWire 'Twist & Go' promotion is billed as incorporating expansion into new European markets and updates with new features for the S2 models - "LiveWire makes it easier to enter e-mobility on two wheels with attractive price advantages, optimized machine availability, expansion into new European markets and the introduction of new, driver-oriented functions."

S2 Alpinista (left), S2 Del Mar 

Describing itself as a "leading manufacturer of electrically powered motorcycles," Livewire says its announcements represent "three strategic initiatives" that are aimed at making it easier to get started with e-mobility on two wheels, making more machines available in Europe and optimizing the riding experience on the bikes.

"The first initiative is the global Twist & Go campaign, which offers significant incentives for the S2 model range.

"The second initiative is to expand into seven additional European countries; the third initiative is a free software upgrade that will equip the S2 models with a reverse function and roll-forward brake recuperation.

S2 Mountaineer

"For a limited time, the LiveWire Twist & Go promotion offers attractive incentives that make it easier than ever for riders to experience the power and innovation of LiveWire e-motorcycles. From August 28 to October 31, 2025 (or until available stock is sold out), customers will benefit from significant price savings for the entire S2 product range (from 18 years of age; subject to availability; T&Cs apply)."

Those incentives appear to be close to a half-price sale in some instances with savings of up to £10,000 ($13,650) in the UK (for example). The S2 Del Mar can now be bought for prices starting at € 9,999 in Germany (8,599 CHF in Switzerland); with the S2 Mulholland priced from € 10,999 in Germany (9,499 CHF in Switzerland) and the S2 Mountaineer from € 12,099 in Germany (10,399 CHF in Switzerland).

S2 Del Mar 

LiveWire models have already been available (at least to some degree or another) in France, Germany, the Netherlands, Great Britain and Switzerland, with market expansion now bringing Spain, Italy, Poland, Finland, Belgium, Portugal and Luxembourg on-stream. The expansion is for the full Livewire range - including the 'ONE'. LiveWire models will be available "through the growing network of European dealers" in each of the new markets. 

The free software update for all S2 models (reverse and roll-forward brake recuperation) will be additionally available to all US owners of an S2 model. 

Motorcycle Industry Association (MIC)

U.S. Commerce Dept. Expands Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

The U.S. Department of Commerce has expanded Section 232 tariffs to cover more than 400 additional product categories that include steel or aluminum. As of August 18, these items have faced a 50% tariff on their metal content as of August 18.

In a release dated August 20, 2025, the Irvine, California based Motorcycle Industry Association (MIC) Senior Vice President of Government Relations Scott Schloegel stated that "despite our opposition to these new tariffs and our request to be excluded from them, the Department of Commerce decided to move forward with tariffs that broaden the range of products now covered under Section 232.

"The powersports industry depends on high-quality steel and aluminum for frames, engines, components, and accessories, and we welcome comments from MIC members as to the potential impacts to their bottom lines - whether that be financial harm or particular vehicles that they will have to stop selling in the U.S. as a result of the unreasonably high tariffs. 

"As a nearly $51 billion industry, we will continue to engage with the administration and policymakers to push for balanced trade rules that don't cripple our industry."

The MIC commented that it is unclear how Customs will assess the steel and aluminum content of finished goods, but the update doesn't alter core reporting rules. Importers must still note country of origin and follow foreign-trade zone requirements. 

However, it does significantly widen the scope. The expansion now reaches beyond raw metals to a variety of finished goods and components, meaning powersports parts and accessories could fall under the higher tariff.

Importers are urged to review HTS codes (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) with suppliers right away. "Because there is no exemption for in-transit shipments, anything entered for consumption on or after August 18 is subject to the new rate."

This is the first round of tariff inclusions; another review process is expected in September.

www.mic.org

Russ Wernimont Designs V-Twin Division (RWD)

Dustin Boyko Acquires the Russ Wernimont Designs V-Twin Product Line

Dustin Boyko has officially acquired the Russ Wernimont Designs V-Twin Division (RWD) as of July 29, 2025. The business will operate under the new name RWD V-Twin – "signalling a new era of innovation and growth rooted in the company's legacy of quality American Made V-twin parts," said Dustin.

Founded by legendary fabricator and designer Russ Wernimont, RWD has long been known for its high-performance suspension systems and premium Harley-Davidson fenders and accessories. "With decades of experience and a deep understanding of rider needs, Russ built a brand that earned respect throughout the V-Twin community."

Dustin Boyko brings over 15 years of experience in the Powersports industry. Prior to this acquisition, he served as Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Tolemar, LLC, where he played a key role in growing businesses such as LA Choppers, Todd's Cycle, Baron Custom Accessories, Trinity Racing and more.

Dustin's vision for RWD V-Twin focuses on "expanding product offerings, continuing to provide great customer service, and growing the brand's market presence."

"I've admired what Russ built for years. This brand represents craftsmanship, originality, and American ingenuity. With RWD V-Twin, we will honor that legacy while driving forward with new ideas, new products, and a customer centric model."

RWD V-Twin will operate out of its new facility in Orange, California, offering a full line of premium suspension systems, fenders, fairings and other accessories designed for Harley-Davidson riders.

www.rwdvtwin.com

SBS

SBS Brake Academy Certification Program

Initially aimed at distributors and their sales teams, Danish brake components manufacturer SBS Friction has expanded its SBS Brake Academy to additionally include a dealership certification program. 

The initiative is aimed at both on-road and off-road motorcycle dealers seeking to elevate their technical expertise and customer reputation. 

"Positioning participating dealerships as specialists in motorcycle braking, offering a clear value-add in a highly competitive market, becoming an SBS Brake Academy Certified Specialist gives dealers the opportunity to demonstrate a deeper understanding of brake systems and component selection - an increasingly important factor for today's safety-conscious riders," says Thomas Midtgaard-Jorgensen, Product and Marketing Manager at SBS.

Certified dealers receive a recognized credential from SBS, providing clear proof of technical competence. This can be used in customer interactions, marketing, and showroom visibility to reinforce the dealer's credibility in braking systems.

Completed in approximately two hours, the program allows sales staff, parts department personnel, workshop technicians and race –product specialists covering compound selection, heat management, design, rotor pairing, and usage scenarios." The curriculum includes both theory and real-world application.

"At SBS, we believe that the more support we can give to dealerships and mechanics, the better they are able to service riders. This is a confirmation we are getting every time we visit dealerships around the world. They are hungry to learn and know more about technical aspects and report that customers respond positively knowing that they are talking to knowledgeable and recognised dealership personnel.

"We see this next stage as a suitable steppingstone for the SBS Brake Academy – a program that already has more than 80 percent of all worldwide SBS Distributors enrolled."

www.sbsbrakes.com

Ride 4 Mary

Ride For Mary

Starting this August, riders worldwide are invited to "Ride 4 Mary", a tribute to honor the late Mary McGee - motorcycling trailblazer and icon.

At the heart of this global tribute is a solo cross-country ride being led by Mary's longtime friend and fellow motorcyclist Ruth Belcher. Starting from Marysville, Washington on August 30, the ride will head for Portland, Maine, to attend the Women's International Motorcycle Association (WIMA) Rally and 75th anniversary, where riders from nearly 20 countries will gather in celebration. 

She will be making two key stops along the way: on September 4, Wailin' Wayne Weekend, at Nelsonville, Ohio, to connect with ADV riders, and on September 5, a visit to the AMA Hall of Fame, Pickerington, Ohio to visit the Mary McGee exhibit with fellow riders.

Mary McGee was the first woman in the U.S. to race motorcycles professionally. She earned her competition license in 1960, competed in the legendary Baja 1000, and became the first woman to race in an AMA-sanctioned motorcycle event. But Mary's influence goes far beyond milestones and medals.

Sarah Schilke writes that "her humor, grit, and generosity made her a mentor and role model to generations of riders. She told stories of riding in borrowed gear and falling in the dirt more times than she could count, always getting up and going again. Mary showed us courage isn't the absence of fear, but the choice to ride through it."

Mary passed away in November 2024 at the age of 87. The ride aims to arrive at Portland, Maine by September 7, 2025.

www.ride4mary.com

Barnett Clutches

Barnett Clutch Tools for Harley-Davidson/Victory

Best known for its large range of cables, hoses, clutches and Harley-Davidson primary components, Barnett Clutches, which was founded in 1948 and also known as Barnett Tool and Engineering ever since (there’s the clue, right there!) is a manufacturer of one of the market's longest established lines of tools for use on Harley-Davidsons - specifically clutch tools.

From diaphragm spring compression tools to clutch 'lock plates' that assist in removing inner hubs, Barnett clutch tools make clutch replacement and maintenance a lot easier. 

Barnett clutch tools are available for Sportsters through 1970, 1986-2020 Sportsters, 1941-1984 Big Twins, 1990-1997 Big Twins and 2001 and later Victory models. Also available are clutch tools designed specifically for use with the Barnett Scorpion line of clutches. As always, these tools are made by Barnett at its headquarters facility in Ventura, California.

BARNETT CLUTCHES & CABLES

www.barnettclutches.com

NAMZ Custom Cycle Products

NAMZ Additions

Oreland, Pennsylvania based NAMZ Custom Cycle Products (NCCP) continues to add it its burgeoning range of electrical accessories – all designed to help their dealers to "Do It Right".

Electrical power connection for navigation, audio, heated grips or charging ports. Supplies ground and switched 12 volt power without CAN/Bus interference. Fits: 2021 through 2025 Pan America and Sportster S Models.

Seen here is a navigation, audio, heated grips or charging ports power connection for 2021 through 2025 Pan America and Sportster S models, it supplies ground and switched 12 volt power without CAN/Bus interference.

Indian Challenger Trailer Isolator Module, fits 2020-2024 Indian Challenger models only - for use with four-wire trailers.

Also new from NCCP founder Jeff "Ideas Man" Zielinski is the Power Port Y-Adapter seen here for 2021-2025 Softail, FL and Trike models and isolators, with 12-position Molex for four or five wire trailers on 2023.5 and up CVO Road and Street Glide and all 2024 and up Road and Street Glides and for Indian Challengers with four wire trailers.

Port Y-Adapter, fits 2021-2025 Softail and 2021-2025 FL and Trike Models.

NAMZ celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, and added to its existing NCCP, Badlands and Letric Lighting product brand programs with NOS - NAMZ Original Stuff. The new brand concept is a small but passionately dedicated, personally curated line of "parts that have been overlooked for too long," says CEO and founder Jeff Zielinski. 

Trailer Isolator with 12-Position Molex, fits 2023.5-Up CVO Road Glide, Street Glide, all 2024-Up Road Glide and Street Glide Models (four-wire trailer version).

NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS

www.namzccp.com 

S&S Cycle

Grand National Softail Slip-on

The Viola, Wisconsin based S&S Cycle, the masters of 'Proven Performance' has added a Grand National slip-on muffler for Softails - with a 4.0" muffler shell and Grand National series end cap.

Available in black or show chrome finish, it has been specifically designed to complement the Softail's performance-oriented design and modern features while maintaining the classic styling cues. 

"S&S Cycle created the Grand National slip-on muffler to perfectly complement this blend of tradition and technology, using our advanced engineering experience and technology to enhance performance, sound, and overall riding experience. The Grand National slip-on is designed to optimize exhaust flow and give your customer's Softail a distinct aggressive sound while staying true to its iconic roots.

The Grand National is 50-state compliant in the United States and has a J2825 compliant removable dB reducer. It is a qualified manufacturer declared U.S. 50-State legal emissions compliant part on all 2025 Harley-Davidson Street Bob, Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, Heritage Classic Softail Models.

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com