Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson Reveals Select 2025 Motorcycles - Already Available at Worldwide Dealerships

With additional new models slated to be revealed later in January, Harley used the start of the new year (January 02, 2025) to unveil "selected" MY2025 initiatives that were already available through its worldwide dealer network - having used a similar two-stage strategy last year.

Harley also announced Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint and Graphics, a new program offering highly desirable paint-and-graphics schemes on select motorcycle models. Additional 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the 26th annual installment of the limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) collection, will be revealed on H-D.com at 5 p.m. CST on January 23.

In the company's Grand American Touring line, the company that "invented the cross-country experience confirmed returning models, including the Street Glide, Road Glide, and Road King Special."

In Trike model terms Harley says that returning models - "for those who appreciate the confidence of a three-wheel platform" - include the Road Glide 3, Freewheeler, and Tri Glide Ultra.

Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint and Graphics "offers premium paint-and-graphics schemes on select motorcycle models for customers who crave a unique, show-stopping finish. When ordered through an authorized dealer, a Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint and Graphics finish is applied by Harley-Davidson to components installed as the motorcycle is assembled. The customer receives a motorcycle with exclusive paint-and-graphics, backed with a full factory warranty, without the expense or downtime associated with custom paint applied by a third party."

For 2025, three Harley-Davidson Factory Custom Paint and Graphics offerings will be available on select models. Each paint set features a special black tank medallion with chrome accents and a mother-of-pearl textured background in either purple or orange.

Designed to be appreciated in full sunlight 'Mystic Shift' offers a "dramatic hue shift which travels from a dark gun metal to purple to blue to almost orange."

2025 Harley-Davidson Touring and Trike Models

In what is not perhaps the best branding choice, given recent and developing events in certain parts of the United States, 'Firestorm' responds to a "current custom trend for flame details in paint. Harley-Davidson offered its first factory flame paint scheme on the 1980 Wide Glide model and has reprised the look several times, most notably on the 2011 Wide Glide model." 

The 'Firestorm' schemes feature a "ghost fade" or inner fade effect - the fade color is slightly brighter than the basecoat. "In certain angles, the flames pop dramatically but are subtle in others. 

"The 'Firestorm' schemes are available in two popular colors - 'Midnight Firestorm', "a dark flamed paint scheme featuring ghosted flames over a Vivid Black base with a charcoal inner glow, and 'Whiskey Firestorm' features an added mid-coat for a deeper orange shade with Ember Sunglo ghost flames with a brighter orange inner glow."

Comment: The uncharitable might be tempted to suggest that Harley has fallen back on that old staple of Harley marketing - 'when you can't sell the metal, sell 'em some paint instead'.

Polaris Inc

Indian Motorcycle Units Sales "Flat" in a 2024 Market Down High-Single Digits Percent


Polaris Inc has reported its Q4 and full year results for 2024, with Q4 On Road segment results delivering a -21% decline in segment sales revenues at $180.80m, from $229.2m for the year-ago, and -3.91% segment gross profit margin at 9.9% down from 13.8% for the year ago.
The decline in sales revenue was driven by reduced unit sales with North America unit retail sales for Indian Motorcycle "flat" in the context of estimated North America unit retail sales for the comparable motorcycle industry down high-single digits percent. So looked at through the Indian Motorcycle lens "flat" is the new "growth" at present.
On Road segment PG&A sales were down by -15%. The gross profit margin performance was driven by a favorable comparable last year and operational efficiencies, partially offset by a mix headwind.

Overall, Polaris' full year 2024 sales were $7,175m, down -20% compared to 2023. Fourth quarter sales were $1,755m, down -23% compared to 2023.
Primary factors said to have been affecting fourth quarter sales were lower volume due to "planned reductions in shipments as we actively managed dealer inventory in a subdued retail environment."
Fourth quarter North America market share was flattish across all three segments. Powersports retail sales for the quarter were down -7% versus 2023. Polaris announced 2025 full year sales expected to be down -1% to -4% with full year adjusted earnings per share expected to be down by approximately -65%. Full year 2024 reported diluted earnings per share was $1.95, down -78% versus last year; adjusted diluted earnings per share was $3.25, down -65% versus last year.
Mike Speetzen, Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Inc. is quoted as saying: "Amid a tough year for the powersports industry, I'm proud of the Polaris team's disciplined focus to make progress within the areas we can control. 

"We were relentless in our efforts, resulting in continued innovation leadership with our products, a 16-percent reduction in ORV dealer inventory, and an operational efficiency savings goal that was exceeded by over $100m.
"Polaris has weathered storms before, and we believe we are positioning our organization to emerge from this downcycle even stronger. While I anticipate challenging headwinds will carry forward into 2025, we will remain focused on being a strong partner to our dealers, providing our riders with high quality products and working to deliver long-term value to shareholders."
"Off Road segment sales were driven by lower unit volume due to planned shipment reductions as we actively managed dealer inventory in a subdued retail environment." PG&A sales were down by -15%. Polaris North America ORV unit retail sales were flat. Estimated North America industry ORV unit retail sales were up mid-single digits percent. The Marine segment also saw lower volumes due to planned shipment reductions.

This was another quarter that saw the NYSE remaining unconvinced with Polaris' results. Back in October 2024 their share price dropped immediately dropped immediately in response to the company's Q3/YTS results, by around 10% - from $80.00 as trading opened down to around $72.20 by close. Set that against a 12-month high of $137 at the end of July last year and a post-pandemic high of $146 in April 2021.
By the time Polaris filed its Q4/FY2024 results in January 2025, the share price has atrophied further, to mid $50.00 territory, dropping from around $56.00 when trading opened on the day the results were released (January 28, 2025) to close at around $52.00, and headed south from there as the week continued.
www.polaris.com

AIMExpo

AIMExpo - The One Motorcycle Show Collaboration Announced and First 2-Wheel Custom Showcase Builders Confirmed 

AIMExpo and The One Motorcycle Show have announced a partnership to bring a full motorcycle experience to Las Vegas, February 5-8, "connecting the industry's trade event with an established, high-energy consumer show that celebrates custom motorcycle artistry and culture."

It is expected that the collaboration will give manufacturers, retailers, and consumers more ways to engage with one another, truly bringing the powersports community together.

"This is an exciting evolution of both shows and something trade and consumer audiences have been asking for," said Cinnamon Kernes, Vice President of Market Expansion at the Motorcycle Industry Council. 

"We're building a robust, unified powersports event for the industry and enthusiasts with long-term partnership goals. This event will also attract potential new riders with The One Show's special brand of inclusive, inviting displays and activities."

AIMExpo will be in its usual venue at the Las Vegas Convention Center, from Wednesday February 5 to Friday 7, "gathering industry stakeholders from OEMs, aftermarket companies, distributors, retailers, dealers, servicers, media, and more. From new products and education workshops to data, research, trends, and government relations updates, AIMExpo attendees will come away with a well-rounded understanding of the powersports market, preparing them for the upcoming sales season."

AIMExpo says it is expecting more than 350 exhibitors and an anticipated attendance of more than 2,000 dealers.

As AIMExpo concludes, The One Moto Show, described as North America's largest independently owned custom bike show, will be at the "distinctive" Western Hotel on Freemont Street in downtown Las Vegas, on Friday February 7 and Saturday 8. By drawing the enthusiast community together through moto-inspired art, custom-built motorcycles from around the world, with vendors, influencers, and support from local builders it is hoped that by adding a "consumer dimension" will create a week of custom critical mass so AIMExpo can better draw dealers in from the custom motorcycle market.

"There will be live performances, outdoor OEM demo opportunities, custom showcases, and a highly anticipated awards ceremony. The One Moto Show will span 22,000 square feet of indoor event space and 37,280 square feet of outdoor space to accommodate about 10,000 people each day.

As part of this collaboration, a VIP preview event for all AIMExpo exhibitors and attendees will be held Thursday night (February 6) giving the industry early access to The One Moto Show before it opens to the public on the Friday afternoon. 

"Our show is an easy way for non-riders to see what motorcycling is about," said Thor Drake, who founded The One Moto Show in 2010. "We know how to have a good time; we give them a taste and get them excited about how motorcycles can become part of their lives. We're pumped to partner with AIMExpo so our attendees can dive into different motorcycle cultures and check out the latest tech."

Kernes believes that "AIMExpo and The One Moto Show will deliver a premier, multi-faceted motorcycle experience to Las Vegas, elevating the industry and fostering stronger ties among all stakeholders in the powersports community. 

"Our mission is to create a must-attend powersports destination event for everyone - from those who are passionate about it to those who are curious, and we're thrilled to be able to kick this off in Las Vegas." 

This is a brand extension exercise for The One Show, not a replacement for its established event. That will continue to be staged at Portland in Oregon (for the 16th time) in May 2025.

www.aimexpousa.com

www.the1moto.com

Harley-Davidson

H-D 2025 Race Season Contingency Programs

Harley-Davidson is renewing its support of motorcycle racing competitors during the 2025 season with cash contingency programs totaling more than $582,000. 

These funds will be available for qualified H-D racers competing in select classes in the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship and the Progressive American Flat Track and AdventureTrackers series.

The Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Team riders and privateer teams racing Harley-Davidson motorcycles in the MotoAmerica Mission Foods King Of The Baggers (KOTB) Road Racing series in 2025 can benefit from racing contingency and available racing parts for purchase.

Harley is offering $234,500 cash contingency program for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the KOTB series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place and a $35,000 championship bonus. 

In the 10 round Mission Foods Super Hooligan National Championship brought to you by Roland Sands Design, Harley will offer a $123,000 cash contingency program for qualified Harley-Davidson racers competing in the Super Hooligan series, with a contingency payout from first to 10th place and a $20,000 championship bonus. 

Racers competing on Harley-Davidson XG750R motorcycles in the premiere Mission Foods SuperTwins class on the 16-event 2025 Progressive AFT, Harley has committed $185,600 in contingency funds for qualified SuperTwins class riders. Contingency will pay first to 10th place and a $20,000 championship bonus. 

In addition, Harley is offering contingency opportunities for racers competing eligible Harley-Davidson Pan America models in the new AFT AdventureTrackers series. Basic rules center on production-based race bikes that remain as close to street stock as is feasible. The class will feature multiple brands that have a similar power-to-weight ratio competing in one of the fastest-growing segments of the motorcycle market. 

Harley has committed $38,750 in contingency funds for qualified AdventureTrackers class riders. Payouts will be awarded for 1st through 5th place in each race, with a championship bonus of $10,000 for the season champion. 

After a successful single-race debut in 2024, the AdventureTracker series will expand in 2025 to include four events held in conjunction with Progressive American Flat Track series, three at Sturgis, S.D. Aug. 4-10 and at Peoria, Ill., on Aug. 10. 

Le Pera

Le Pera - 'Outcast' 2-Up

Internationally recognized motorcycle seats designer, Le Pera's 'Outcast' 2-Up is designed "for riders who prioritize both style, versatility and comfort for themselves and their passenger," says Bob Le Pera Jr.

"This seat combines a sleek, unique design with premium comfort to elevate the riding experience. The Outcast GT2 is perfect for solo riders who want the benefits of a full-length seat while maintaining a spacious, comfortable seating area. It's the ideal blend of function and form for those who ride solo."

Features include durable black Biker Tec cover and molded 'Marathon' foam, with Le Pera's signature 16-gauge powder-coated steel baseplate and carpeted bottom.

Both styles are available now from Drag Specialties, in Standard or Daddy Long Legs configurations to suit a variety of riders. Choose from the signature GT2 inlay or opt for the classic smooth finish to match the bike's aesthetic.

 

LE PERA ENTERPRISES 

www.lepera.com 

S&S Cycle

Indian Chief - Qualifier 2-1 Exhaust

Inspired by the company's King of the Baggers racing efforts, this all-stainless Qualifier 2-1 from S&S Cycle has been designed "to make power and sound great." 

"Featuring full-length heat shields and a stainless-steel stepped header construction; this pipe is a favorite with Challenger models riders, and we are very excited to announce this new fitment for 2022-2024 Indian Chief models now as well."

It is available in four versions - brushed stainless or 'Guardian' black for 49-state street legal applications or for race only.

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com

Parts Europe

Parts Europe Adds Öhlins Suspension, Zard Exhausts and Denali Lights

Parts Europe's new products blitz continues with the addition of the Italian made Zard program of H-D exhaust applications.

"Fantasy in designing, handcrafted attention to detail, obsessive pursuit of performance: each and every Zard exhaust combines the ethos that has given birth to a unique brand, proudly craftsman-made and strictly Made In Italy.

"Zard designs and manufactures innovative, high-performance homologated motorbike exhaust systems, distinguished by a unique design.

"Every Zard exhaust is created directly on the destination bike, with a design process that combines craftsmanship and advanced technology. Production is supported by the use of state-of-the-art software, reverse engineering tools, presses, 2D and 3D lasers, robots, electric benders, machining centres and test benches."

The Zard news comes only a couple of weeks after Parts Europe announced availability of the Denali Electronics range of LED lights and accessories and that it has added Öhlins suspension products, starting with Harley-Davidson application inventory.

"Denali provides a complete lighting and visibility package that includes the lights, light mounts, auxiliary brake light, and a single intelligent plug-n-play controller to provide effortless installation and integrated control of all your accessories, and that it has added Öhlins suspension products, starting with Harley-Davidson application inventory.

"This new collaboration allows Parts Europe to provide innovative solutions to its dealers to allow riders to push their limits, explore new environments and create new adventures."

www.partseurope.eu

www.zardlab.com

www.denalielectronics.com

www.ohlins.com

Kraus Moto

Kraus KR8 Inverted Front End Kits Offer Choice of Valving Options

Described as "the complete package with maximum impact," Kraus Moto says that "nothing else matches this level of performance of our Öhlins based KV8 inverted front end kit for 2024 H-D baggers with Street Glide fitment coming soon.

"Whether you're carving through tight corners or cruising open highways, this American-made kit is the ultimate upgrade for aggressive H-D riders. The KR8 inverted front end kit has what it takes to truly elevate your ride."

Designed specifically for performance upgrades, this premium front-end kit includes Öhlins inverted front forks, known for their superior handling and ride quality, as well as new KR8 triple trees, Kraus radial brake mounts, and KR8 fork guards to protect the fork seals. 

The kit is also compatible with the award-winning Kraus Isolated Riser system, allowing for a customizable riding position. This kit is the result of a partnership between Kraus Moto and Öhlins racing technology, ensuring top-of-the-line quality and performance. Benefits are said to include improved handling and ride quality for a better overall riding experience, a customizable look and riding position, increased braking power for added safety and high-quality components for long-lasting durability.

There's a choice between performance valving for a refined ride or touring valving for a plusher feel: +1" (standard) and (+2") fork length options with Performance, or Touring Valving options.

Touring Valving is engineered to perform on the open road with the upper part of the stroke providing a comfortable, plush ride. As the stroke deepens, the valving manages the forces, allowing the fork to adapt to the road surface for optimal traction and road-holding capability, even with a fully loaded bike. This fork is specifically designed and recommended for long-distance riders seeking the ultimate touring experience.

Performance Valving is designed specifically for performance riding, built to keep up with other riders in fast-paced environments, with developed tuning used by track riders and those who ride hard. Especially suited for aggressive riders looking to maximize their lean angle, the +2" over option raises the front-end by 2 inches, boosting ground clearance and perfect for high-speed twisties and track use.

Fitments are 2008-2013 Harley Touring Models (1" Stem) and 2014-Up Harley Touring Models (30mm Stem). Note though that it will not fit a 21" front wheel and that 108 mm radial brakes are required. 2024 Models will require purchase of KR8 Fender Adapter Brackets or 23" and below year model fender; CB-FFN-19MD-210 & CB-FFN-19SH-205 are compatible. There's a 2024 Street Glide fitment coming soon.

KRAUS MOTOR CO.

www.krausmotorco.com