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Tuesday 22 October 2024

Comment by Editor-in-Chief, Robin Bradley

What A Mess!

Since I wrote this column last month, I've been to Milwaukee for the Drag Specialties 2024 NVP Product Expo, and the first of a two-part review of vendor news is in this edition. The weekend was dominated by three main lines of dialog. 

First, the excellent new expo environment that LeMans is now providing. Second, now that inflation finally appears to be at least somewhat under control, the soft 2024 parts and accessories aftermarket as we await the effects of an overdue interest rate reduction cycle, and regardless of the outcome, getting this year's Presidential election into the rear-view mirror won't hurt either. Third, and inevitably, what with being in Milwaukee 'n all, the ongoing deterioration in Harley's market reputation as it emerges that even its attempts to address its problems are proving problematic. 

Having previously addressed the IRA grant aid it scored to subsidize new LiveWire production configuration, last month's "Harley Needs to Start Thinking the Unthinkable" piece talked about the decision to move Revolution Max platform model production (Pan America and new-gen Sportsters) to Thailand. Harley claims it will only be for a year, but representing, as it does, the first time it will be making bikes for sale in the United States outside the United States, that seems unlikely.

dealer disquiet has reached unprecedented levels

Either way, the Unions are furious and accusing Harley of breaking the promises made in 2019 when it pledged that it would only ever make international market motorcycles internationally.

There are many other issues bubbling away in Harley's cauldron of woe - share price, fiscals, dealer policies, inventory channel stuffing, declining sales and, most recently, backtracking on the 'touchy feely' HardWire Diversity, Equality and Inclusivity (DEI) strategy that would see it waving rainbow flags and sailing perilously close to recruitment by positive discrimination quota.

Personally, I have nothing against rainbow flags - nor pink ones, yellow, black or brown ones. I think that it does behove all of us to 'Play Nice' with everyone and to keep our views to ourselves. Express them in the ballot box and not in the cowardly confines of social media channels, I say. Free speech must include the freedom to disagree, or else it includes nothing.  

I have always seen the best intentions of positive discrimination as misguided - those intentions, paradoxically, are guilty of exactly the kind of bigotry and bias that such policies are designed to screen out of society. 

So, should corporations play the DEI card and deploy its kissing cousin, the ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) policy? Well, yes, of course they should, but the fact that everyone is now supposed to boast about doing so, and cancel anyone who doesn't, only goes to show just how shit society has been, not how great political correctness is going to make it. Hire someone because of their ability, not because of the boxes they check.

Since last month, the brown stuff really has hit the fan. Dealers have been complaining to Harley about how they are being treated, and bigoted right-wing activists have been banking click-credits as they claim it is their all-knowing wisdom that has changed Harley's corporate governance policies. 

Last year I wrote a piece entitled "Harley is Treating its Dealers Like an ATM," and I knew at the time that it had touched a nerve. There is no question that the brave new world of investor group and private equity ownership of Bar'n Shield shrines simply could not end well. Not in any parallel universe was it a good idea to institutionalize the worship of mammon as a higher calling than praising the metal!

We all have fiduciary duties, sure, but as one dealer has said in what has become an open letter to the H-D CEO, Jochen Zeitz, his failure to immediately vacate the role will itself be an abandonment of his own fiduciary duties to all stakeholders. Strong stuff.

Dealer disquiet has reached unprecedented levels, with those lobbying the Harley-centric NPDA said to be in the hundreds. In its inane, toe curlingly self-regarding statement of mid-August, one that was intended to address the disquiet, but singularly failed to heal the wounds, and instead painted themselves as the victims. Harley merely reinforced the sense that, actually, they are neither great listeners nor great capitalists.

In defending themselves from the perception of having attempted suicide by swallowing an entire shed load of Woke pills, the company stated that "we do not have hiring quotas and we no longer have supplier diversity spend goals." Like having had quotas might have been a legitimate ping on the governance radar, and that dumping spend goals makes it all okay now? WTF were they thinking in the first place? Do they not understand the concept of free market enterprise?

Harley lambasts those whose "social media negativity" is "designed to divide the community." Hello? The problem has been that it is its policies that have done the dividing. In reaction, it is the 'stakeholders' that are now trying to reunite the manufacturer with its brand heritage, values, dealers and customer opportunities. But the corporate playbook is one that now eliminates the ability to put the shovel down and stop digging.

For a senior management team that would claim a stellar and insightful understanding of what the concept of 'Brand' means, it does not have even the remotest grasp of who its customers have been, of who they presently are, and of who they are going to be after we Boomers have ridden our last mile. Harley wants the brand to be what it says it is, not what its customers want it to be. Corporate arrogance of the most dangerously juvenile kind!

The original HardWire strategic plan expires in 15 months, and Zeitz has already been coy with investors about the planning of HardWire II. And well he might be. The present plan having so clearly failed, he and his fellow travellers are hardly made of 'the right stuff' where planning the next stage is concerned.

HardWire has failed just as spectacularly as the well-meaning Matt Levatich's ill considered 'More Roads' plan did. It is, therefore, inconceivable that any new sense of direction can be allowed to be sequential to, or developmental to, this one; or that the present management are the ones tasked with devising it. It cannot be built on what has gone before, it needs to be a radically different approach that resets priorities and takes the company in an altogether new direction. 

Harley needs new thinking, and that means new thinkers. Harley needs to delist from the NYSE before a hostile takeover bid (probably Chinese) takes all manufacturing out of the USA. It needs to serve time in friendly, heritage-sensitive private hands, lick its wounds (modestly) and re-evaluate what its place in the global motorcycle industry of the mid-21st century can be. That includes selling LiveWire to a (probably Chinese) company that is in a position to make sense of the project.

The timing of change maybe uncertain, but the fact that there needs to be radical change is entirely certain. What a mess!



American Motorcyclist Association

AMA Sound Meter Kits


As part of its commitment to further educate riders about sound levels, the American Motorcyclist Association will once again distribute sound test kits to four chartered clubs across the country.

This year’s recipients of the annual AMA Sound Meter Program include the Coast Riders Motorcycle Club, Trail Riders of Southern Arizona, Coconino Trail Riders and Ocean State BMW Riders. With the sound kits provided by the program, these clubs will be able to accurately check the sound emissions of their motorcycles and institute training efforts to limit sound pollution at their events.


"With the AMA Sound Meter Program, we’re supporting and encouraging riders and clubs to take sound issues seriously and make decisions based on accurate information,” AMA Government Relations Director and Western States Representative Nick Haris said. “Phone apps and cheap meters are often unreliable, and it's important to have accurate, repeatable information prior to implementing any sound-related rules."

The AMA Sound Meter Program, started in 2005, has awarded more than 130 sound meters and helps riders and event organizers better understand acceptable sound levels, according to AMA guidelines.

The sound testing kits provided by the AMA contain a Type 2 sound meter, a tachometer, training materials, a spark-arrestor probe, personal protective equipment and a storage case.

In addition to the AMA Sound Meter Program, the AMA remains committed to supporting quieter motorcycle use and fighting against unfair sound ordinances. 

BRP

Can-Am 'Pulse' and 'Origin' - Production Slated for Q4


BRP (Canada) has released full details of its Can-Am branded 'Pulse' and 'Origin' electric motorcycle models, with production to start Q4. Pre-orders are now available at select BRP dealerships in France, Germany, Spain, UK, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Austria, the United States and Canada. Global deliveries will start in early 2025. 

BRP President and CEO José Boisjoli framed the launch as reclaiming its two-wheel heritage: "50 years ago, Can-Am celebrated many victories with its Track 'n Trail motorcycles, and we are bringing that pedigree back with a focus on modern electric power, connectivity and thrill. 


Can-Am 'Pulse' - features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, "allowing riders to navigate with ease and stay connected to each ride with the BRP GO! App. It also has a unique feature, an Active ReGen system that provides enhanced control and smooth deceleration while giving more power back to the battery." There are four riding modes - Normal, Sport+, ECO and Rain, and KYB suspension with 140 mm of travel at the forks keep it planted with a sportier feel. There is also an optional 'Pulse 73' trim.



"We intend to become a global leader in that space with true innovation designed to simplify the riding experience for new riders and introduce electric motorcycles to all."

The company news release states that "the Can-Am 'Pulse' and 'Origin' models redefine the ride and awaken the energy in every rider, whether in the city or off the beaten path. Each is driven by an all-new Rotax E-Power power unit - BRP's proprietary electric technology - which delivers instant torque on demand, merging pulsating performance with style and sophistication."

BRP claims that "a key feature of the Can-Am motorcycle line-up that sets it apart is an innovative liquid-cooled system, which includes the battery, charger, inverter and motor. The system significantly limits battery degradation over time, while simultaneously optimizing range and charge time. 

"In fact, riders will experience quick and efficient charging each and every time and in any condition - from 0% to 80% in 50 minutes - using Level 2 charging at home or at automotive charging stations."

"innovative liquid-cooled system"

There has been much speculation and debate about the apparent irony of electric motorcycles incorporating a form of liquid-cooling, with several manufacturers known to be deploying and working on such technology. Indeed Zero, for one, has liquid-cooling patents that are expected to find their way onto production electric models soon.

However, the real-life riding effect on improved charging cycles and range remains to be proven. Some critics are already suggesting that the Can-Am's charge rates and range will be inadequate, especially on the dirt.

Can-Am 'Origin' - adds an Off-Road riding mode, "and its high ground clearance and full KYB suspension with 255 mm of travel up front and adjustability in the rear inspire confidence off the beaten path and firm planting on paved roadways."

Both the Can-Am 'Pulse' and 'Origin' come standard with an 8.9 kWh battery that powers the 'Pulse' to an estimated city range of up to 160 km (100 miles), and the Can-Am 'Origin' to an estimated city range of up to 145 km (90 miles). Both feature a reverse function. 

While the 'Pulse' is described as "crafted for the energy of city life," the 'Origin' is described as "engineered for adventure beyond city limits." Both share the same Active ReGen and connective technology, with the 'Origin' wielding "unmistakable Can-Am DNA and motocross heritage with all-terrain readiness, enhanced suspension and dual sport tires."

www.canammotorcycles.com





 




Ness Enterprises

Ness 'Holeshot' Rotor Bolts


Dublin, California based Ness Enterprises has added two new hardware offerings - the 'Holeshot' floating titanium brake rotor bolt kits and 'Holeshot' rotor bolt kits.

Made from CNC-machined titanium, the innovative design combines the floater bolt and bushing into a single unit, delivering a streamlined look while enhancing the strength of the bolt to 120,000 PSI of tensile strength. 


Each kit features CNC-drilled lightning holes, which combine reduced weight with great custom aesthetics - in black, gold or polished titanium.

All sold separately, each floating kit includes five titanium floating bolts and five spring washers, with five titanium brake rotor bolts in the standard one-piece rotor bolt kits.

Floating brake rotor kits are available for '14-'23 H-D FLT Touring front floating rotors, 2024 Ultra and Road King; the 5/16" one-piece rotor bolt fitment kits are for H-D front rotors, with 3/8" for H-D rear rotors.


ARLEN NESS ENTERPRISES

www.arlenness.com

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties Additions


Predator III Seats

Featuring a 7" tall driver support that gently slopes down to the passenger seat area and designed narrower at the front for better leg clearance, this Predator III seat by Drag Seats is constructed with a high-quality automotive-grade vinyl cover and molded polyurethane foam for maximum comfort and styling. 


The 3/16" thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit, while the carpeted bottom protects the bike's paint. Fits with most Drag Specialties and H-D sissy bars. Available in Double Diamond stitch with black, red or silver thread for '18-'21 FLSB, '18-'23 FXLR, FXLRS and FXLRST models. 


Semi-Metallic Front Brake Pads

Semi-metallic brake pads offer reliable stopping power from a pad that is in between a sintered metal and organic brake pad. Noted for their stopping abilities and wear characteristics, these pads are asbestos, nickel and lead-free. 

The pads are available for '21-'24 RA1250/1250S, RH1250S and '23-'24 FLHXSE/FLTRXSE/FLTRXSTSE models.


Front Brake Master Cylinder Assemblies


Drag Specialties master cylinders are designed to work with all 1" or 1 ¼" diameter handlebars and most custom and stock switch housings. The kit includes lever and clamp half. Compatible with DOT 4 or 5 brake fluid. The ½" bore single disc is available for '18-'23 Softail models in chrome or matte black.


OEM Style Fork Tubes


OEM style fork tubes from Drag Specialties have a highly durable hard chrome finish and offer less drag and improved seal wear. Sold in pairs, these tubes accept all OEM components and are available in 22.5" and 25.75" for '09-'12 FLHTCUTG and '10-'11 FLHXXX models. 


Kickstands

Drag Specialties' OEM replacement kickstands are measured from the center portion between the foot and the centerline of the upper pivot. Manufactured from high-strength steel with a brilliant chrome finish. 



They are available for '19-'21 FLDE/FLSB/FLSL and FXLR models in stock length, 1" under stock (for bikes with lowered suspension) and 1" over stock length.



DRAG SPECIALTIES

www.dragspecialties.com

Freedom Performance Exhaust

Scout 101 4.5" 2-Step Slip-On


Corona, California based Freedom Performance Exhaust (FPE) has a new MY2025 Indian Scout 101 (Classic and Super Sport Bobber) 2-step slip-on muffler available for pre-order.

Said to "provide the ideal sound and performance for the Indian 2025 Scout 101 Classic and Super Sport Bobber, this FPE single slip-on is street legal in all 50 States - as a 4.5" slip-on, there's no need to remove the catalytic converter in the stock header.


"With exceptional engineering, superior manufacturing and a stylish finish, this model features a new glossy end cap available in red, blue and glossy black," says CEO Martin Arteaga. "Enjoy crisp throttle response and a deep, throaty sound. We also offer optional quiet baffles for separate purchase, which can reduce sound levels by 5 to 8 decibels."

These slip-ons feature anti-reversion, full-range torque and optimal horsepower. It is also offered in a smaller outer diameter of 4 inches. An easy-install, it ships with all necessary mounting hardware and brackets.


FREEDOM PERFORMANCE EXHAUST

www.freedomperformexhaust.com

Motion Pro

Softail Cable Replacement Top Half


Loomis, California based Motion Pro has added a new clutch cable top half that substantially improves on the cheap plastic components of the new OEM two-piece design on all 2018 and later Softails and 2021 and later Baggers.

The Harley design uses plastic components that dealer feedback has said aren't exactly the best. They are difficult to install and have a tendency to be less than adequately reliable. "Our new design removes all of the plastic junction box components and spring mechanism - providing the rider with improved feel, precision and rigidity. 





"It is currently available in both our standard OE style black vinyl and our BlackOut line - which is our line that has black vinyl housing and all black housing fittings. We think both will be very popular as these cables are the only ones that replace the plastic Harley fittings."

In total the product line consists of 18 different SKUs in black vinyl and 10 different SKUs in Blackout.   These 28 SKUs cover a wide range of OE part numbers and have varying housing lengths.  Also, cables are supplied with new pivot attachment pin that secures the cable to the clutch lever (which should be replaced when cable is replaced).  

The junction box and cover are machined from 6061-T6 heat-treated aluminum with a high-quality anodized finish. The threaded adjuster provides precise and reliable cable adjustment with POM liner for smoothness and reliability.


The longitudinally wound black housing resists compression. The cable is designed to replace OEM item # 3720215 and has a housing length of 32.8 inches and 2.2 inches of free length; extra-long versions are available.


MOTION PRO

www.motionpro.com


Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde

Pan America - J&H Adjustable Sound Management


The recent news that Netherlands based electronic exhaust sound management specialist Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde has seen a slew of recent new model fitments.

Recent launces have included a brand-new 4.5" electronically adjustable exhaust system for H-D Touring CVO 121 models, 2024 Touring 117 models, Sportster S and Nightster.

Now additionally available for the 2024 Pan America 1250, Special and CVO models, its 'Nomad' exhaust is described as "the ultimate street legal, electronically adjustable exhaust with the perfect combination of sound, performance and comfort - pushing the super-smooth Revolution Max 1250 engine of the Pan America to the limits.


"We have developed an exhaust that gives riders the possibility to adjust the exhaust sound 'to the moment' by choosing a different sound mode for every situation. The 'Nomad' is adjustable, which makes it perfect for comfortable long-distance touring or urban areas."

J&H systems are delivered with new software and hardware to ensure compliance with R41.05 regulations. The company has invested in "our own state-of-the-art test lab with the most up-to- date and advanced testing equipment and methods to provide the ultimate sound experience for our customers.


"This includes our new active Smartbox and fast responding valve to guarantee an enriched sound experience from future-proofed engineering." Backed by a four-year warranty, it is compliant with the latest Euro norms "and we are well prepared for Euro 5 plus R41.05." Online exhaust configurator available.


THE JEKILL AND HYDE COMPANY

www.jekillandhyde.com

www.jekillandhyde.us