Indian Riders Fest 2026

Indian Riders Fest 2026 Marks Indian's 125th Anniversary

Time is tight on this reminder, but this great official IRF26 poster (designed by Russell Murchie, under the creative direction of Ola Stenegärd) reminds us that in additional to being the 5th Anniversary Edition of the Budweis Indian Motorcycle Custom Show (BCS), this year's Indian Riders Festival (IRF) marks the 1256th anniversary of the Indian Motorcycle brand.

Slated for 18-21 June 2026 at Lipno Lake in the Czech Republic, this year the Custom Show is requiring mandatory pre-registration - with only 25 finalists selected by international jury for the five classes.

In a change from prior years, no on-site entries will be accepted. An international jury will select a maximum of five custom motorcycles per class - 25 finalists in total - to compete and be showcased at BCS. 

In honor of the brand's heritage, BCS entries are encouraged (but not required) to celebrate Indian Motorcycle's 125th anniversary. The Budweis Custom Show (BCS) is the only international custom bike show dedicated exclusively to Indian Motorcycle. 

The BCS proudly carries the AMD-approved custom show accolade again for 2026 and promises a creative and inspiring showcase for European custom bike builders and Indian Motorcycle dealers.

The Jury President will be Ola Stenegärd (Director of Product Design, Indian Motorcycle), with Onno Wieringa (renowned international custom show jury member and industry veteran and Official Photographer/AMD World Championship) as Jury Chairman. 

The mandatory pre-registration via the official website at www.budweiscustom.show. Now in its fifth year, BCS is the centerpiece custom competition of the Indian Riders Fest (IRF), celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, and the global Indian Motorcycle community.

BCS is the only custom show in the world that is 100% dedicated to Indian Motorcycle, and there will additionally be a Public Choice Award powered by IRF26. Event updates, schedules, and program details have been published at www.indianridersfest.eu

The five classes this year are: 

• Scout: Open to all Scout models

• Non-Fairing: Open to all models without a fairing

• Touring (incl. Baggers): Open to all touring models, including baggers

• Clubstyle: Also embracing Performance and Streetfighter models

• Custom Paint: Celebrating the very best custom paintwork

H-D Bagger World Cup Arrives in Europe

Gutierrez and Iannone Secure Wins at Mugello Circuit, Italy as H-D Bagger World Cup Arrives in Europe

May 29-31, 2026, Round 2, Mugello Circuit, Borgo San Lorenzo, Florence, Italy. This report is taken from Harley-Davidson's June 2 event weekend and race reports.

The second race weekend of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup marked the start of another spectacular chapter in the inaugural championship season. 

Intense competition, dramatic moments and the passionate Italian fans made Mugello the stage for an unforgettable race weekend that took place together with the Italian Grand Prix of MotoGP.

In the Friday qualifying, Eric Granado (Joe Rascal Racing) secured pole position with a lap time of 1:56.704, setting a new Bagger World Cup lap record for the Mugello circuit. The Brazilian led ahead of his Australian teammate Archie McDonald, who finished second, 0.323 seconds behind. 

The front row of the grid was completed by Andrea Iannone (NitiRacing). The newcomer impressed from the start, securing third place on the grid on his first weekend on the Harley-Davidson Road Glide race machine, just 0.547 seconds off pole position - despite coming to Mugello with very little experience on the machine.

Saturday's opening race was marked by a fierce battle between Spanniard Oscar Gutiérrez (NitiRacing), Eric Granado and Archie McDonald, with the drivers switching positions again and again throughout the race. 

After a clever and considered performance, Gutiérrez beat his competitors in the closing stages to back up his Race 2 win at COTA/Austin, Tx., securing his second win of the season. Granado crossed the finish line in second, while McDonald climbed onto the podium in third. Highly rated Italian Andrea Iannone, making his debut in the championship with NitiRacing, immediately picked up the pace of the leading group and was in contention for a podium finish for much of the race. 

However, two long-lap penalties ultimately relegated the Italian to fourth place, despite his extremely competitive performance, placing ahead of fellow Italian Fillippo Rovelli (ParkinGO Team) in fifth.

Saddlemen Race Development's Jake Lewis, Travis Wyman and Cory West were 6th, 8th and 9th respectively, in a tightly bunched group of four Americans with Cody Wyman (Joe Rascal Racing) 7th.

If race 1 was already intense, race 2 set the bar even higher. Gutiérrez, Granado, McDonald and Iannone quickly formed the leading group and delivered a spectacular fight in the first laps with numerous overtaking manoeuvres and constant changes of position. The race took a dramatic turn when Gutiérrez crashed and Granado and Iannone continued their fight for victory. 

The Brazilian and the Italian repeatedly swapped positions before Iannone finally gained the upper hand, taking the chequered flag first to secure his first victory in his second race in the Bagger World Cup. Granado finished a close second, while McDonald stepped onto the podium for a second third place for the weekend after losing contact with the leading duo in the closing stages.

Filippo Rovelli (ParkinGO Team) also put in a strong performance, securing fourth place in the second race - his best result of the weekend.

With a time of 1:56.804, Iannone set the fastest lap in Race 2, underlining his competitiveness on this debut weekend.

No less impressive was the pace of the Harley-Davidson racing machines throughout the race weekend. Granado recorded the highest speed of the entire event in the first race, reaching 283.4 km/h on the famous main straight of Mugello.

Jake Lewis, the top-ranked rider for Saddlemen Race Development, secured sixth place in both races to maintain fourth place in the championship standings.

Jeffrey Schuessler, Director of Global Racing Programs at Harley-Davidson is quoted as saying that "Austin has shown the potential of this championship and Mugello has confirmed it. 

"We witnessed two races full of overtaking manoeuvres, different winners and drivers who pushed their bikes to the limit from start to finish. The level of competition continues to rise and that is exactly what we wanted to achieve with the Bagger World Cup. 

"The participation of Andrea Iannone brought additional excitement to the already competitive starting field. But what impressed me most was the quality across the entire field. We saw riders from different countries, with different backgrounds and different riding styles, all finding their own way to be fast on these bikes and putting up fantastic battles for the fans. 

"Just as importantly, thousands of spectators enthusiastically embraced the experience we're building around this championship. The Harley-Davidson Village, the open pits, the contact with the riders and the races themselves all contributed to a fabulous atmosphere that makes this championship unique."

The remaining H-D Bagger World Cup Races will be at:

Round 3 - June 26-28 TT Circuit Assen, The Netherlands

Round 4 - August 7-9 Silverstone Circuit, Great Britain

Round 5 - August 28-30 MotorLand Aragón, Spain 

Round 6 - September 18-20 Red Bull Ring, Austria (Championship Finale)

BRL Europe

BRL Europe - Round 1, Cremona, Italy, May 23-24

The four event/eight-race 2026 second season of the Motorcycle Storehouse backed Bagger Racing League European Cup got under way at the popular Cremona Circuit in northern Italy in May.

Fittingly for a series that former WorldSBK and MotoGP racer Ruben Xaus did much to bring into being, it was the Spanniard who took both the race wins to start his season with a double-header on his Ducati Diavel.

It was an intense weekend, marked by hot weather and even hotter battles on the track, further enhanced by an excellent turnout of spectators.  Drawn by the unmistakable style and sound of the Big Inch Baggers they filled the paddock over the two race days.

A solid and determined performance saw Xaus take the win in a spectacular first race after a closely fought battle with Italian Andrea Tomio, second, also on the Ducati Diavel – one of three in the race (Swiss/Italian racer Marco Attanasio brought his home in fifth).

Xaus and Tomio put on an intense duel, establishing themselves from the very first laps as the benchmarks of the weekend, with Xaus taking the 8-lap race win by just 0.201 of a second in 13 minutes and 41.799 seconds. Tomio set the best lap time though in 1:41.726 with a top speed of 133.346 kmph.

Behind them, Antonino Pio Vecchio (Italy) took third, delivering a strong performance on his Indian Challenger despite finishing some 31 seconds behind the second placed Ducati. Dutchman Milan Merckelbagh was fourth with Vittorio Iannuzzo (Italy in sixth, both on Harley Road Kings. It was a disappointing Saturday for two other Harley riders with Japan’s Takeshi and Spain’s Sergio Martinez both forced to retire (DNF) and a A technical issue before the start prevented Italian rider Vittorio Nazzareno Lumina from starting (DNS).

The top 5 in Race-2 on the Sunday was an exact repeat of the Race-1 order but this time Vittorio Nazzareno Lumina, Scooped sixth, ahead of Takeshi and Martinez in seventh and eighth, all three on the Road Kings.

It was a high-impact debut for the Bagger Racing League European Cup, which in Italy confirmed all its potential in terms of show, technical level and public interest. The next round of the BRL Europe championship will take place on the weekend of July 11-12 at the Brno Circuit, in the Czech Republic, alongside the Alpe Adria European Championship.

After which the series moves on to the legendary Nürburgring on 5-6 September before the series concludes at The Circuito de Jerez in Spain on October 31/November 1.

www.baggereurope.com

S&S Cycle

S&S Cycle continues support of H-D engines from 1936 to 2026

S&S says that there has been a lot of talk within the industry of struggles to find replacement and hop-up parts for older Harley-Davidson models. "S&S Cycle has been continuously supporting the vintage world since opening our doors in 1958," says industry veteran VP Marketing Howard Kelly. 

"As a new engine family is released, our engineers get busy building a line of parts to support it, while continuing support of our existing product lines. Uniquely, this cycle has been ongoing at S&S for decades.

"Most people think of us as the leader in 'Proven Performance', which we are, but we do also have a soft spot for keeping the older iron on the road for many more years and miles to come. Our current catalog contains performance and replacement parts for every H-D engine family going back to 1936. 

"With 590 pages of S&S Cycle parts for H-D models from 1936-2026, it is the most complete source for parts in the industry. So, if you need to rebuild an engine, or come across a great deal on an older bike that needs a horsepower boost, you can find help within those 590 pages.

"While much of the world is going digital, we know our dealers and our end-user customers like a printed catalog, so we created one - again. Whether at consumer or dealer shows, when people see a catalog on our display table, they pick it up and ask if they can have it. 

"Usually there is a story about how many of our older catalogs they have at the shop or in their garage and the excitement of a new version is really rewarding for us to see", said Kelly.

"From oil pumps to rocker arms to pistons, cams, cylinders and flywheel assemblies, whatever you need for a rebuild - or a performance upgrade - S&S Cycle is there for your older model H-D customers, all the while having a full line of replacement and hop-up parts for the new M8 series engines as well."

www.sscycle.com/dealer-center/catalog

Zodiac International

Zodiac International - Additions

Rick's Performance Shifter Rods

These German designed and made Performance Shifter Rods by Rick's Motorcycles are a performance and style upgrade to replace the basic and primitive original shift rod. CNC machined from high-quality 6061 aluminum, with a more robust look, yet lighter than the original, they feature specially manufactured ball joint heads in 7075 black anodized aluminum, with ball joint bearings made of high-quality chrome-moly steel. 

"They assure more precise shifting and positioning of the shift lever." They are available as a short version for mid control models (adjustable 109-121 mm) and long version for forward control or floorboard models (adjustable 314-326 mm). 

PM Race Series 4-Piston Radial Mount Calipers

Rigidity is key to obtaining a consistent, crisp braking feel. The new PM Race series radial mount caliper with ARC (Advanced Radiant Cooling) technology is designed to improve braking feel by providing more rigidity and maximum cooling efficiency. 

"With ARC, Performance Machine once again redefines industry standards addressing one of the most critical factors in high-performance braking: heat control. With this breakthrough in piston and caliper design, PM delivers a solution that ensures optimal performance, even under the most demanding conditions." 

These calipers fit stock Harley forks 2000 to present with the use of additionally available radial mount brackets and hardware kits. They also bolt straight onto forks with 108 mm center-to-center radial brake mounting tabs and use spacer bushings between caliper and tab to adapt to the diameter of the disc brake rotor.

Koso D2 Riser Mounted Multifunction Meter

The Koso D2 multifunction meter was developed specifically as a replacement speedo for Street Bob and Breakout 2018-2024, but has been made available for a wide range of models when equipped with the Street Bob style risers. It offers a compact, modern instrument with extensive functionality. With its easy-to-read LCD display, customizable backlight, and multiple integrated indicator lights, it's the perfect choice for riders who value both design and performance. 

Speedometer 0-199 km/h (0-124 MPH), selectable km/h or MPH unit. Odometer up to 999,999 km (miles), trip meters A, B up to 9,999.9 km (miles), manually resettable. Digital tachometer up to 10,000 RPM. Fuel gauge with 10 levels (100%) and low fuel warning: 0-30%. It comes with clock, voltmeter, shift recommendation, oil change interval indication and tire pressure. 

Furthermore, it has warning lights for neutral, turn signal left and right, high beam, oil, fog light, low fuel, battery discharge, cruise control, tire pressure warning and engine check light. Adjustable backlight: brightness (1/5 to 5/5) and choice of colors.

Rear Lift Shock Mount Extension

Get the correct riding stance with this shock extension. It raises the Softail rear end 1.25" (32 mm), measured from the rear axle up. It's easy to install as it replaces the eyelet that installs on the swingarm side of the stock shock. It fits all Softail 2018 to present.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV

www.zodiac.nl

Mueller Motorcycle

Power Clutch 2 – Up to 50% Reduced Clutch Lever 

Internationally-recognized German clutch management specialist Mueller Motorcycle is offering dealers the opportunity to participate in a novel promotion – one open to dealers who sell their products and anyone who already owns or plans to buy a Müller product through a dealer.

"The premise is simple. Create a video for social media or YouTube explaining the product or talking about what it is and what it can do. The videos can be funny, technical, informative - anything goes, everyone can let their creativity flow.

"Then you just need to tag us in the video and send us the link to video@m-motorcycle.de and that's it!"

The principal highlight of the Mueller range of clutch assist systems is the updated Power Clutch 2. The combination of adjustments to Power Clutch and its additional new progressive action 'Clutch Control' offers "the best possible clutch Performance available," says owner Fabian Müller.

"It means no slipping and no problems when adjusting and delivers a properly separating clutch. This update solves all the clutch control and gearbox management challenges of the M8 models, offering outstanding smoothness and improved performance."

It replaces the OEM part and reduces the required clutch lever force and effort by an average up to 45-50% - "making it easier to adjust and delivering an improved pressure point."

It is suitable for the cable clutch transmission on '21-'26 Touring, '18-'26 Softail, and '21-'25 Trike.

The first-place winner gets € 2,500 in cash, the second-place winner € 1,500, and the third-place winner € 1,000.

Additionally, check-out Mueller’s lowering kit - for up to 40 mm of stepless lowering on M8 and selected EVO and Twin Cam models.

Find out more about the promotion at http://web.m-motorcycle.de/en/ videocontest2026/ - dealers can also share this via their own social media channels.

www.m-motorcycle.de

S&S Cycle

S&S Announces 131 ci Kits for 2017-up M8

This S&S Cycle 131 kit for 2017 and up M8 models "is the perfect sleeper package." Dealers and their customers can boost engine performance with a bolt in kit to "pump up the cubic inches" with a Bore and Stroke of 4.250" x 4.625" and bring compression to 11.0:1 without any machine work for installation.

The cylinder finish matches the stock colors, so unless you install the included 131" badge, no one can tell. All necessary gaskets are included, and the kit retains stock engine height.

With the S&S HPT590 cam the stock 114" horsepower has been seen to go up from 81.07 hp to as much as 146.62 hp with torque from 111.71 to 145.45 ft. lbs with the 131" stroker kit, CNC heads, Big Bore Throttle Body, High-flow Stealth Air Cleaner kit and a 2-into-1 exhaust system.

The kit works with the stock crankcases and original engine serial numbers are retained. The powder coat finish matches the factory finishes - there are three options, for choice of Wrinkle Black with or without highlight and Black Granite with highlight.

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com

News Briefs

Widely touted as a success during its debut in 2025, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum's 'Pearl's Jam' will return on Monday, August 10. "This powerful day celebrates the incredible women of the motorcycle world while honoring the legacy of Pearl Hoel, the First Lady of the Sturgis Rally."

V-Twin Visionary's Route 66 Centennial Ride will celebrate the 100th anniversary of U.S. Route 66, known worldwide as the "Mother Road." Established on November 11, 1926, the 2,448-mile highway from Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA. Taking the 'backwards' route. The ride will set off from the Santa Monica pier at 12:00 noon on July 13 and head through California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois ending up in Chicago; www.vtwinvisionary.com. 

The MIC reports that tariff changes could reshape the outlook for motorcycle industry. The Trump administration revised its Section 232 tariff structure for steel, aluminum, and copper in a proclamation that took effect April 6, removing certain finished motorcycles from the derivative-product list and excluding those products from Section 232 duties. "This appears to create more favorable treatment for some finished motorcycles, but aftermarket and replacement parts are still likely to be captured at 25%," said Scott Schloegel, Senior VP Government Relations for MIC, ROHVA, and SVIA. 

Called Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the MIC says that new battery and packaging laws being enacted state by state could require manufacturers, distributors, and/or dealers to fund and manage recycling programs for products they sell. The policy model behind these laws shifts some end-of-life management costs from governments to producers, and in practice can mean mandatory participation in stewardship organizations, reporting requirements, registration with state agencies, and financial contributions tied to covered products.

Despite making it onto the statute books in some other states, notably in Kansas, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (D) vetoed the bipartisan-supported Right-to-Race bill that had passed in the Wisconsin State Assembly and Senate. As elsewhere in the United States, the AMA supported Bill aims to protect existing motorsports racetracks from nuisance claims. It is estimated that the measure would help support the wide variety of racetracks throughout the state that are said to provide $2.46bn in total economic impact as well as provide 10,601 jobs in the state.

The inexorable march of automated-clutch convenience technology sees the Honda E-Clutch extended to the 2026 Transalp - the middleweight adventure becoming the fifth Honda model to come with the tech. (the announcement also includes CRF300L Rally dual-sport model).

New data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis show outdoor recreation continued to play a significant role in the U.S. economy in 2024, with powersports ranking among the sector's largest activities. According to the agency's latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, outdoor recreation generated $1.3tn in economic output in 2024, supporting 5.2 million American jobs and accounting for 2.4% of U.S. gross domestic product. The sector grew 2.7% in real terms (inflation-adjusted) over 2023, reflecting continued demand for outdoor experiences throughout the nation.

The FIM H-D Bagger World Cup got underway at the MotoAmerica race weekend at Austin, Tx. (COTA Circuit) in March - the first (and first ever) of six rounds in 2026. Archie McDonald (Joe Rascal Racing, Australia) claimed victory in Race 1, with Jake Lewis (Saddlemen Race Development) second and Filippo Rovelli (ParkinGO Team, Italy) secured third. Race 2 saw Spaniard Oscar Gutiérrez (Niti Racing, Indonesia) taking the win, ahead of Eric Granadoto (Brazil) second with Archie McDonald demoted to third due to a three-second penalty track limits. Heading into the next round at the Mugello International Circuit during the MotoGP Grand Prix of Italy, May 29-31, Archie McDonald (AUS) heads the standings from Oscar Gutiérrez (SPA), Jake Lewis (USA), Eric Granado (BRA), and Filippo Rovelli (ITA) fifth, Cory West (USA), Travis Wyman (USA), Cody Wyman (USA) and Dimas Ekky Pratama (INA) ninth. 

BRP has announced that it is suspending its full-year FY27 guidance following the effective April 6 amendment of Section 232 tariffs on Steel, Aluminum and Copper imports into the U.S. The amendment mainly leads to a 25% tariff on the total value of imported snowmobiles and the majority of ORV models, replacing the previous 50% tariff on applicable metal content only. The Company currently estimates the potential incremental tariff cost related to this amendment to be in excess of $500m for the remainder of the year, before any mitigation measures that could partially offset these impacts.

Zodiac International

Zodiac International - Additions

Cult-Werk V2 Custom Front Fenders

New from Austrian custom parts specialist Cult-Werk, this new front fender is designed to help create a sportier look for most on most models. It is shorter and narrower than stock and clears the view of the front wheel. 

There are three air inlets on each side that have been adapted to complement the sportier look, with glue-in grilles included. A 100% ABS plastic custom-fit part (not cheap GRP), no adjustment work is necessary and the high quality surface finish means minimal painting effort.

 

Micro Speedometer Gauge

For those who just want the bare essentials rather than a forest of handlebar clutter, this Micro-Speedo measures 59 mm x 22 mm x 14 mm. The housing is available in polished and black anodized aluminum. The easy-to-use pushbutton allows the speed to be adjusted to the wheel circumference and access functions such as total mileage and trip meter. 

The four LEDs on the outside indicate neutral, high beam, indicators and oil pressure. Debouncing by the software allows the use of almost all common wheel sensors. Also available as a module only so you can create your own housing for it.

 

The Cure for Wet Sumping

HD.M.G.I. came up with the cure for wet sumping in pre-2000 style engines. The steel ball doesn't always seal off the feed hole in the oil pump, which causes the oil tank to drain into the crankcase when the engine hasn't been running for a long time. The cure is a special ball made out of FKM 70 +-5 Shore (Viton) material, which can withstand oil and temperatures from -25 to +230 degrees Celsius. The complete kit consists of the ball with a special spring and aluminum adapter that comes between the spring and the ball.

 

Unibat Sealed AGM Batteries

These maintenance-free advanced AGM technology batteries are 100% sealed and completely leak-proof. They deliver superior starting power (compared to traditional AGM batteries), high reserve capacity and longer lasting life. The tightly packed construction and calcium reinforced grids plates prevent plate separation and guard against vibration damage. There's no need for electrolyte water since they are already charged and ready to use.

 

Arlen Ness 21" Pro Sport Carbon Fiber Front Fender

This 21" Arlen Ness carbon fiber front fender features a short length and custom double window design. Each fender is made from premium pre-preg carbon fiber with CNC machined billet aluminum molds. They are finished with high gloss, UV-resistant clear coat for long term durability. Engineered to allow clearance for up to 14" oversized brake rotors. Direct bolt-on fitment does not require additional brackets. Accepts all 130/60-21 width front tires.

 

S&S Cycle Primary Chains

S&S primary chains are a direct replacement for OEM applications but offer up to 11% additional strength. They fit almost every big twin ever produced. It is the perfect upgrade to go with an S&S heavy duty compensator ramp, ensuring trouble free primary operation as you build a powerhouse motor.

 

Rick's Gear Sensor Cover

This colorful cover for the OEM gear sensor - as used on CVO Touring 2023.5, Touring 2024 to present and Softail 2025 to present - tidies up and brings a custom accent and much needed protection to an otherwise vulnerable critical component. They are designed in Germany by Rick's Motorcycles.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV

www.zodiac.nl

Müller Motorcycle

Müller Power Clutch 2.0

The combination of adjustments to  Power Clutch and its additional new progressive action 'Clutch Control' offers "the best possible clutch Performance available," says owner Fabian Müller. 

"No slipping and no problems when adjusting and a properly separating clutch. This update solves all the clutch control and gearbox management challenges of the M-8 models, offering outstanding smoothness and improved performance."

It replaces the OEM part and reduces the required clutch lever force and effort by an average up to 45-50% - "making it easier to adjust and delivering an improved pressure point." 

It is suitable for the cable clutch transmission on '21-'26 Touring, '18-'26 Softail, and '21-'25 Trike.

MÜLLER MOTORCYCLE AG

www.m-motorcycle.de

Baker Drivetrain

Primary Chain Adjuster Shoes

Haslett, MI based Baker Drivetrain has designed this precision machined, racetrack tested primary chain adjuster shoes specifically for riders looking for maximum engine response from their high-performance Harley-Davidson.

Unlike the stock adjuster shoes, that are often molded, these new replacements are precision CNC-machined from billet Nylon 6-6. This superior manufacturing process ensures they are stronger and more durable than OEM factory parts - "making them ideal for demanding performance applications where reliability is non-negotiable."

These American-made components offer increased service life with reduced wear and are perfect for "high output engines or vehicles that travel a substantial number of miles each year." The design has been rigorously tested and meets the highest standards of V-Twin builders and race tuners.

"From quarter mile passes to long haul touring, we design and develop our products with performance and durability in mind," said Bert Baker, co-founder of Baker Drivetrain. "We build parts with a purpose, and these adjuster shoes are the same. We tested them on the track, including on my own race bike, and the results were clear: they're stronger, they last longer, and they do the job the way they're supposed to."

Engineered as a high-strength, low-friction wear surface, these low-cost upgrade shoes help control chain motion and reduce parasitic power loss, delivering efficient torque transfer from the engine to the transmission. 

They are direct replacements for H-D part numbers 39976-65B (1965-2000 Big Twin models) and 39976-01 (2001-2006 Big Twin models, excluding the 2006 Dyna) and offer a high-quality solution now that OEM production has ended. 

BAKER DRIVETRAIN

www.bakerdrivetrain.com

Custom Dynamics

Brighter. Bolder. Shark Demon LED Fog Lights

Custom Dynamics has added to its Shark Demon lights lineup with these patents pending high-output LED fog lights. "Engineered for riders who demand maximum visibility, aggressive styling the offer factory-clean integration on Harley-Davidson motorcycles."

Features include premium gloss black housing and ultra-tough polycarbonate lens. They output 4140 'Raw Lumens' (2080 effective lumens the pair) and a daylight-white (5800-6500 k) clear lens delivers "maximum detail and clarity in fair weather.

For fog, rain and snow, a 'selective-yellow' (2900-3100k) yellow lens "slices through bad weather delivering strong contrast with minimal glare."

They are SAE and ECE compliant, IP67 waterproof rated, and the adjustable beam aims exactly where the rider needs it with vertical or horizontal mounting. 

An effortless 22 AWG wiring harness and in-line 5-Amp mini fuse make installation straight forward, and there is an integrated on/off push button soft switch (with 5 ft of wire lead) lets the rider control these 'fogs' directly through the factory infotainment system on 2023–2025 Street Glide & Road Glide models. "No extra switches. No clutter. Just clean, OEM-style control."

CUSTOM DYNAMICS LLC

www.customdynamics.com

Harley-Davidson

Harley's Artie Starrs Era Strategic Plan - 'Back To The Bricks' 

Following the introduction of a new 'RIDE' marketing platform last month, the 'MoCo' used the occasion of its Q1, 2026 Fiscals release to confirm an outline framework and some details of the new Strategic Plan that will come to define the Artie Starrs era.

Described as 'Back to the Bricks', the simple common-sense brand and balance sheet management it encapsulates could equally well be described as 'Back to Basics'. For the record the 'Bricks' that it references are the bricks with which the iconic Juneau Avenue, Milwaukee HQ was built.

The company first occupied the site on what was then called Chestnut Street in 1906. Following major expansions in 1910-1913, the iconic red-brick, multi-story factory was finished around 1926. 

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994, "Bricks" is the employee colloquial for that building and at a time when the decision has been taken to have staff return to office working and re-populate the building, 'Back to the Bricks' is both the sentiment and mission behind a statement unifies legacy values and planning for growth.

A strategy that is intended to "restore performance and deliver profitable growth" by leveraging "Harley-Davidson's competitive advantages to restore volumes and build a platform for value creation - targeting over $350m of HDMC EBITDA in 2027."

Artie Starrs, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson went on to state that "having defined the motorcycle industry for more than 123 years, Harley-Davidson remains one of the world's most iconic and respected brands. 'Back to the Bricks' builds on our core strengths and competitive advantages, harnessing the passion of our riders to deliver profitable growth for the Company and both our dealers and shareholders. 

"This next chapter in Harley-Davidson's evolution is already underway, and early momentum reinforces our confidence in the significant opportunities ahead. As we drive towards this new phase of growth, we remain committed to the craftsmanship and dedication that define our brand - while delivering meaningful value to the Company for our riders, dealers, and shareholders alike."

Quoted directly from their May 05 release, 'Back to the Bricks' is built on five key pillars:

A deep appreciation of Harley-Davidson's competitive advantages and legacy: The Company's iconic brand, diversified and powerful revenue channels, and best-in-class dealer network provide a powerful foundation for growth.

Renewed commitment to exclusive dealer network to drive enterprise profitability: Harley-Davidson's dealers are a competitive advantage. The Company is planning actions to enable dealers to double profitability in 2026 and then double it again by 2029.

Immediate actions to recapture share in areas where Harley-Davidson has the right to win: Harley-Davidson has strong legacy equity in existing markets including new motorcycles, used motorcycles, Parts & Accessories, and Apparel & Licensing. The Company's new strategy is focused on positioning the Company to regain share and drive meaningful volume growth in categories where it benefits from credibility, scale, and deep rider connection.

Strong financial position with a path to stronger free cash flow and EBITDA margin: Cost and restructuring actions already underway support a path to stronger free cash flow and EBITDA margin over time.

Bolstered management team with balance of fresh perspectives and institutional knowledge: Harley-Davidson has made a number of leadership appointments that support the Company as it leverages its innate strengths.

Financial Targets

The Company is targeting more than $350m in EBITDA in 2027 for Harley-Davidson Motor Company (HDMC), with additional future upside through execution against Harley-Davidson's strategic priorities.

Defined by Artie Starrs as a three-to-five-year timeframe, over the medium term, Harley-Davidson is targeting:

Mid-single-digit compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for HDMC retail unit growth - namely, rather than trying to make more from less, Artie Starrs wants to make more from more.

HDMC gross margin of 25-30%; mid-single-digit CAGR for HDMC Parts & Accessories and Apparel & Licensing growth; HDMC operational expenditures of less than 20% of sales and an HDMC EBITDA margin of 10-12%.

Highlights of that strategy will see a big win for dealer demand with an MY 2027/2028 return for an air-cooled Sportster (starting at $10k), with domestic US units being made at the York, Pa. Facility.

Before then will be a much-anticipated debut for the Sprint. Still expected to be based on the Hero MotorCorp, India developed X440cc oil-cooled single, it is slated for release at some stage of the 2027 model year and while it is thought likely to have a sub $10k entry level price-point, giving it breathing room beneath the pricing of the new Sportster, it is not now expected to hit the sub $6k mark that Jochen Zeitz had projected last summer.

Harley will build on the recently announced new 'RIDE' marketing platform with a focus on accessibility (Starr's preferred way of referencing a more nuanced affordability concept).

He is also keen to emphasise dealer profits, especially through parts and accessory revenue streams that will no longer the 'Cinderella' but a major source of opportunity for Harley, for dealers and for riders alike.  

Indeed (with what, in the May 05 Investor Call appeared to be confirmation that aftermarket P&A will get a fairer shake when it comes to authorized showroom access and inventory), and customizing with a recalibration of "blank canvas" model offers to stimulate P&A and individual personal expression.

The re-focus on the importance of the dealer network is something that Artie Starrs has flagged ever since he first visited Maverick Harley-Davidson in Carrollton, Texas in mid-2025. Long before news of his impending appointment had started to circulate, he enrolled in their Riding Academy Motorcycle Training Course, earned his license, and purchased his first Harley from that dealership.

Ensuring that the dealer network is financially healthy and has the right number of the right motorcycles in a broadened and deepened product offering is being widely welcomed. Starrs has stated that in recent years Harley's dealers have had to inventory "too many of too few motorcycles" on their showroom floors.

The recalibration of what unit "lifetime value creation" looks like makes this is a strategic plan whose time has come. Starrs also added that he and his team are "relaxed" about the mixed network they have inherited and are happy to see family-owned stores thrive alongside the chains. 

News Briefs

Harley-Davidson plans to spend $6.8m on exterior work at its historic Milwaukee HQ as it prepares for employees to return to work from its offices. It is embarking on an "envelope restoration" for its campus on Milwaukee's near west side, according to a commercial alteration permit application filed by Milwaukee architectural firm HGA. The permit covers work at its headquarters as well as structures at 3800, 3900 and 4000 W. Juneau Ave. In 2025 the company initiated the process of pursuing historic tax credits with an application to the National Register of Historic Places. The tax credits could enable Harley to defray up to 40% of the costs of a restoration project. Harley already attained historic status for the campus in 1994. However, the company filed an updated application in early 2025 and additional information in October 2025 as the basis for seeking an updated historic designation. In December 2025 it was announced that it will require white-collar employees to return to working from its offices starting from March 2026 - six years after it largely closed the property during the Covid-19 pandemic. Employees who live within a 50-mile radius of the headquarters were told that they will start working at the office three days per week in March and then four days a week starting in September/MBJ.

Where there were three, now there is one. Masterminded by Performance Brokerage Services, February saw an announcement that Hampton Roads H-D (Yorktown, Va.) and Southside H-D (Virginia Beach, Va.) were to be consolidated at the Portsmouth, Va. Location of Bayside H-D. In March long-time Bayside owner Maurice Slaughter sold the combined business to Michael Veracka's MOD Enterprises conglomerate, the largest dealership group owner in the USA. The combined business has been renamed Ironclad Harley-Davidson. Employees from all three stores have been offered employment within the new structure. PSB commented that for Veracka the move "reinforces a multi-store strategy focused on scale and operational efficiency. The group also operates Riverside Harley-Davidson, known as the world's top-volume Harley-Davidson dealership by new unit sales."

In the context of recent changes to tariff policy, Polaris has stated that, excluding potential refunds, the revised Tariff structure "will not have a material impact to the Company's 2026 full year guidance."

S&S Cycle, in collaboration with Motorcycle Storehouse, is bringing its rider contingency program to the 2026 BRL Europe Race Series. With a € 14,000 prize fund, the program underlines S&S Cycle's continued commitment to racing and performance development both in the US, and Europe. The S&S Cycle BRL Europe contingency program will run throughout the 2026 race season, rewarding performance, encouraging participation, and continuing to build the link between the racetrack and the street.

BRP has reported Full-Year 2025 revenues of $8,442.7m, an increase of 6.8% compared to 2024, driven by a favorable ORV product mix, as well as higher ORV and PWC shipments. BRP North American Powersports retail sales increased by 12% compared to 2024, resulting in market share gains in North America for ORV and Snowmobile. 

Harley-Davidson's blue-collar headcount continues to shrink, with production workforce posts down by about 800 positions from 2022, and further headcount reductions expected. CEO Artie Starrs told analysts in February that the company had hired an outside consultant to conduct "a rigorous, end-to-end review of the company's cost base and operating expenses," with plans to announce a strategic "reset" for Harley in May. Overall employment at Harley hit a recent peak of 6,400 as of year-end 2023 with 2,400 hourly unionized employees at its plants in Menomonee Falls, Tomahawk and York, Pennsylvania, where combined unionized employment peaked at 2,500 in 2022. In 2024, year-end total employment decreased to 5,900 and unionized employment fell to about 2,000. Then in 2025, overall employment was 5,500 at year-end with 1,700 positions in the unionized workforce. Harley listed 200 employees in the electric motorcycle LiveWire Group from 2022 through 2024 but reduced employment there to 150 as of year-end 2025/MBJ

Daytona RideNow dealerships are said to have defied trends with "record breaking" sales during Daytona Bike Week 2026. "Despite changing attendance in Daytona during Bike Week, the enthusiasm at the Indian dealership was at an all-time high. The team increased new unit sales of Indian motorcycles by 40% over 2025. RideNow Daytona Beach, a sister store to the Indian dealership increased sales by over 32% during the rally as well."

GBrakes

GBrakes – 11.5" V-Twin Floating Rotors

Carson City, Nevada based GBrakes "builds motorcycle braking systems that hold pressure, dissipate heat, and deliver clean, repeatable stops, no matter how hard you ride or how hard you stop."  

That is the bold statement made by CEO Sandro Milesi about the new brakes components business he started last year, and he and his family have the decades of multi-generational experience, knowledge and industry contacts to be able to back it up.

The range is centered on sintered and ceramic pads, high-carbon and stainless rotors and braided stainless brake lines built to outlast the bike they're mounted on. The company's rotors are engineered in USA and manufactured in the EU in ISO certified facilities. 

Seen here, GBrakes' 11.5" floating rotors with choice of anodized carriers "deliver serious stopping power," says Sandro. "While the design is eye-catching, it's the advanced technology and noticeable boost in braking performance that truly impress. GBrakes improve stopping power, reduce brake fade, and offer a more responsive, confident ride, on the street or the track."

GBrakes rotors are manufactured from heat-treated, high-carbon virgin 420 stainless steel. Each rotor is precision laser-cut (never stamped) and a parallel double-disc grinding process to achieve exceptional flatness and a tight-tolerance surface finish. The rotors are then Cryo-Tech treated down to -300° to further enhance material stability, durability, and performance.

"Building our brakes with premium materials and customization options to match their performance needs and personal style, riders notice a firmer lever feel, less vibration, and longer pad life." 

Each GBrakes rotor features a unique wave-shaped edge that enhances airflow and heat dissipation, delivering cooler, more consistent braking under extreme conditions. Unlike conventional round rotors, the Wave profile reduces unsprung weight, sheds debris efficiently, and maintains a cleaner pad surface for maximum bite. 

"Performance brakes aren't just for racers, they're for anyone who values safety, control, and reliability. Every system we offer is built to work together, pad compounds matched to the right rotor material and finish, lines pressure-rated to hold feel even when the fluid's boiling, and hardware that actually fits your platform without compromise.

"Whether you ride a loaded V-twin, a daily street build, or a sportbike, GBrakes systems are built for riders who don't back off. If your braking feels vague, weak, or warped, don't ride around it. The fix is here. The right parts. The right fit. All in one place."

GBRAKES

www.gbrakes.com

Feuling Parts

Performance and the Art of Pushrod Installation

Feuling Parts says it has taken the tried and trusted Twin Cam Quick Install Pushrod "and added knurling and an indicator dot to make install a breeze. This is the strongest 'Quick' install pushrod on the market."

TC Quick Install Adjustable pushrods have a 3/8" OD tube and 0.134" wall thickness and come in sets of four. They are individual length exhaust and Intake pushrods and install without the removal of rocker covers – they require quick install tubes - see Feuling #4095 for tubes only or Feuling #4097 for pushrod and tube kit.

Luke Leatherman says that "the strength and rigidity of this quick install pushrod is second only to heavy-duty one-piece pushrods. Our tube material starts out as 7/16" rod OD, it then gets turned down to 3/8" OD leaving heavy duty 7/16" – 20 threads for the base and jam nut. 

"The jam nut slides up the pushrod; the base then loosens up into the pushrod to shorten length and allow quick install access."

Feuling notes that correct pushrod/lifter adjustment requires starting with fully pumped-up lifters. "When trouble shooting noisy valve-train, lifter adjustment should start with a fully pumped-up lifter, from zero lash put 0.90" - 0.100" of pre-load on Feuling hydraulic lifters." It could also be that lifter to lifter bore clearance is out of spec and Feuling recommends a clearance of 0.001" - 0.0015" for proper oil psi at lifter.

Other factors could include pushrods flexing and hitting pushrod tubes ("look for a shiny ring witness mark around the pushrod normally seen up towards the cylinder head"), low oil pressure, pushrod center oil hole plugged, excessive crankshaft runout, rocker arms/bushings out of tolerance and leaky/broken piston cooling jets.

Additional suggested checks could include the clearance for roller rocker arms on the underside of the rocker box covers; steep ramped camshafts causing excessive gear drive backlash or excessive crankshaft runout; tolerance on the rocker arms/bushings, valve spring clearance to lower rocker box housing and valve spring coil bind and/or valve spring harmonics – the valve spring open height should match up with camshaft peak lift.

FEULING PARTS

www.feulingparts.com

RMStator

RMStator V-twin Line - Regulators

Best known in the street bike and offroad/dirt bike markets, RMStator has a new line of OEM replacement charging solutions for V-twin applications.

Owned and operated by Founder and President Roger Masson, this is his factory's first 'product specific' entry into hugely demanding electrical component market for Big Inch baggers, cruisers, and tourers with complex modern electrical systems.

The line has launched with three key components - MOSFET Voltage Regulators, a direct fit OEM replacement, plug-and-play Stator design and Alternator Rotors with high grade steel capping.

Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor voltage regulators (MOSFET - we love a good acronym here at AMD!) run cooler than OEM designs, and that is no different in the Harley market. They feature an upgraded Heat Sink and better cooling translates to improved charging efficiency.

RM’s V-twin Stator design is an OEM fit, enhanced reliability, plug and play direct replacement

"Using only premium components, our tested, tested and re-tested regulator design exceeds the performance and durability of OEM diode regulators and as a direct fit, easy install replacement for the original unit," says Chief Engineer Evan Grist.

V-twin Alternator Rotors – built to OEM specifications.

"Changing out a worn, damaged, or just tired regulator extends battery life, protects the electrical system, and prevents expensive breakdowns. A failing regulator that is overdue for replacement can damage the stator, which is an expensive repair on a V-twin engine. The regulator replacement is a simple external bolt on, Plug & Play repair that is easy to do, a good value, and cheap insurance against future problems."

RMSTATOR

www.rmstator.com