LeMans Corporation

LeMans Hires Rob Schlueter as New Marketing Director

Janesville, Wisconsin based Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited based parent company LeMans Corporation has hired Rob Schlueter to fill its new Director of Marketing and Brand Development role.

"We're excited to have Rob Schlueter on board," said Paul Devine, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at LeMans Corporation. "With a dynamic mix of industry expertise and brand-building horsepower, Rob is set to drive LeMans' marketing strategy forward, strengthening brand awareness, generating leads, and accelerating revenue growth.

"His ability to amplify brands through strategic marketing aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. With Rob leading the charge, we're ready to push the throttle and take our marketing efforts to the next level."

Rob's role will be to "ensure a cohesive and compelling brand presence across all channels in this pivotal role while strategically positioning LeMans' house brands for success in an increasingly competitive market. Think of it as fine-tuning a high-performance machine - every element working together for maximum impact."

Rob's career has included leadership roles at global heavyweights like Nike, Icon Motosports, Under Armour, SGK, and Saddlemen. "He has built and elevated brands across industries, blending creativity with strategic execution. His experience in design, sales, and marketing gives him a well-rounded approach to growing brands and engaging customers."

Rob shares that enthusiasm: "LeMans Corporation has a legacy of innovation and passion for the powersports industry, and I'm honored to be a part of it. I look forward to working with the talented team to build on that strong foundation and drive greater success."

www.dragspecialties.com

News Briefs

Based near Schweinfurt, German adjustable exhaust system manufacturer Kesstech (founded in 1984 by Roland Kess), a subsidiary of The Motorcycle Equipment Company (MEC) group, has now filed bankruptcy, having previously filed for insolvency protection under the German 'Self Administration' court procedures. MEC, which also operates the Austrian Cult-Werk accessories brand, is a "company that combines brands to create a range of high-quality motorcycle equipment parts". Originators of the adjustable exhausts sound concept, Kesstech was once a favourite among Harley dealers in particular but has faced strong competition for the sound adjustment niche. Kesstech products were made in Germany and EC type approved for Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycle, and BMW motorcycles; www.kesstech.de

The Drag Specialties Louisville NVP Expo in January saw control cable, hose and handlebar specialist Magnum Shielding unveil an  update in styles and construction for its already popular handlebars. Magnum has  traditionally made its handlebars from steel,  but has now upped its game to using stainless steel and then Chroming or Black Powder coating for a rust resistant and very durable finish. According to  Magnum Engineer, Cameron Hurwitz,"the  goal is to produce is precision formed bar with no noticeable necking at the bends,  minimal internal wire ­obstruction and artisan quality weld fillets throughout. This is what makes for a truly amazing bar." They are available in several of Magnum's best-selling designs, including the Crusader Bagger, Top Gun T-Bar, Caliber Ape and Bagger and Mach 1.25 Moto, although the company's patented Viking Bagger and Ape bars still remain very popular; www.magnumshielding.com

The MIC reports that Maryland is considering a total ban on consumer products containing PFAS chemicals (polyfluoroalkyl substances) - a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals known as "forever chemicals". Scott Schloegel, MIC Senior Vice President of Government Relations stated that "roughly a year from now, as drafted the bill would be disastrous for powersports sales. A wide range of powersports products contain PFAS chemicals - found in or used to produce products such as riding gear, vehicle components resistant to heat, fuel, and chemicals, as well as semiconductors and chrome plating. In many of those products the use of PFAS is currently unavoidable. This measure would mean an end to sales for all manner of products inside Maryland dealerships." Both California and Maryland recently placed restrictions on products in which PFAS are deliberately used.

 

For FY2024, Irving, Texas based RumbleOn saw an 11.5% drop in revenue, from $1.36bn in 2023 to $1.21bn, recording revenue of $269.6m in the fourth quarter ($311.17m in 2023, a -13.4% decrease). The company did reduce its net losses for the quarter, recording a loss of $56.4m in the Q4 '24, compared to a loss of $168.5m in Q4 '23. The company's net loss for the year was "just" $78.6m, compared to a net loss of $215.5m for 2023. The self-styled 'Omni Channel' powersports vehicle retailer saw pre-owned powersports unit sales decrease for the fourth quarter and full year 2024. Q4 units were down -9.5%, and pre-owned were down -8.8%; YOY retail sales for new powersports units dropped -7.1%, and pre-owned fell -16.4%.

 

RideApart has reported that it looks likely that the iconic Willow Springs International Raceway property in SoCal is about to be sold. The buyer is said to be Boston-based real estate investor CrossHarbor Capital Partners - a $10bn property developer. All seven racetracks and the entire 600-acre site are said to be on the block. Willow Springs presently hosts the final round of the Bagger Racing League (BRL).

WorldSBK is has announced that it has obtained ISO 20121 certification for its event sustainability management system.

Harley-Davidson

Hero Extends Harley-Davidson Deal

By Ben Purvis

Harley-Davidson struck a licencing deal with Indian bike-making behemoth Hero back in 2020, one that allowed Hero to develop, manufacture and market a Harley-badged motorcycle in its home market. Now that deal is being extended to cover additional bikes and international sales in certain markets.

The original Hero-made Harley was the X440, launched in 2023 and sold alongside other H-D models in India, where Hero also took on the US brand's sales network after H-D decided to close its own Indian subsidiary back in 2020. 

That deal has been expanded to include more Hero-developed machines, with the Indian company issuing a press release stating: "The Company has extended its partnership with Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Inc. in order to expand the H-D X440 into new variants as well as to develop a new motorcycle for both domestic and select international markets."

The addition of 'select' international markets will be of interest to Harley dealers who have been crying out for a more affordable, entry-level model to tempt customers into their showrooms

While Hero's focus has been on India, where it sold the vast majority of the 5.9 million bikes it made in 2024, the brand has started to turn an eye to international markets - already having an R&D facility in Munich, Germany, and announcing its intention to expand into Europe and the UK in the second half of 2025. It makes its own variant of the Harley X440, the Mavrick 440, sharing an identical SOHC, air-cooled single and a similar chassis. If that bike proves to be an export success, it's clear that the Harley X440 could also be appealing to customers outside India.

The additional variants of the X440 will use the same engine but the company's announcement that it will also develop a 'new motorcycle' suggest it has another power unit on the way - perhaps one that will fill the void in the range between the X440 single and Harley's smallest homegrown engine, the 975 cc V-twin in the Nightster now being produced for all global markets in Thailand. 

S&S Cycle

MK-Series 'B' Crankcases for M-8 Softail Models

Another recent addition to the S&S Cycles family of Crankcase upgrades for M-8 engines, these 'biggest yet' beefed up precision machined power-builder designs are their new MK-Series 'B' Crankcases for "building massive power, reliably."

Designed to be paired with S&S 136" cylinders and a 4 5/8" Stroker Crank they scrape more oil that the stock case designs they upgrade - with a large volume oil pump and large volume sump - allowing for the installation of larger bore kits yet fitting the stock frame without modification.

"Baggers aren't the only M-8s pushing massive performance numbers - Softails are right on their heels and doing it in a lighter, more agile chassis. These built engines are begging for a stronger base to build from, and our MK-Series 'B' cases are just the solution."

The stock deck height and close-fitting oil scraper are machined - the stock design that these replace are cast.

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com­

Trask Performance

Assassin Turbo Kit

Last month we featured the new generation of modular (just add exhaust of choice) Trask XS Turbo systems. However, there was one, top-of-the-line Turbo application that we decided to hold back for its own moment in the spotlight - the awesome and mega powerful 'Assasin' Turbo Kit seen here.

Trask XS Turbo system kits are an evolution of the Trask Tornado kit that was created exclusively for Drag Specialties - which had been the first to use Trask's new V-Band technology.

Modestly described as living in the same 40-50% power increase territory as the other new XS systems, the Assassin Turbo Kit is a genuine Stage-2 Turbo for 117" and larger engines.

"The perfect fusion of craftsmanship, performance, and design, each 'Assasin' is built to order with precision and care - each being handcrafted by skilled and experienced fabricators in Trask's new fully integrated 50,000 sq ft 'Palace of Power' at Phoenix, Arizona. 

"Every turbo system is pie-cut, back-purged, and TIG-welded by hand, ensuring not only structural integrity but also an artistic finish that complements the bike's style. Designed for riders who demand both exceptional power and show-stopping aesthetics, it delivers impressive horsepower and torque gains. The Assassin Turbo Kit is more than just a performance upgrade - it's a statement."

Trask's V-Band assemblies reduce installation times, eliminate gaskets, and ensure better airflow with leak-free connections and minimal maintenance. "These kits are genuinely modular as they offer the flexibility to choose from multiple exhaust options, allowing riders to customize their style while maintaining top-tier performance."

Finished in brushed stainless with black compatible models include '02-'16 FL Twin Cam, '02-'17 Softail Twin Cam, '04-'17 Dyna, '17-'24 FL M-8 and '18-'24 Softail M-8.

TRASK PERFORMANCE

www.traskperformance.com

Klock Werks

FXRP Style Fairing Fit Kit

Mitchell, SD based Klock Werks has this FXRP style fairing fit kit available for 2018-2023 M-8 Softails, 1997-2024 Road Kings, 1991-2005 and 2006-207 Dyna models, FXR, 1986-2003 Sporsters (2004-2021 will be available soon) and 2016-2023 Indian Springfields and 2022-2024 Indian Chiefs. 

"Experience the timeless appeal of the FXRP Style Fairing, a classic reproduction designed to elevate your motorcycle's style and performance," says founder Brian Klock.   

"The FXRP Style Fairing comes as a complete Fit Kit, ensuring that you have everything you need for a seamless installation. Bringing together the perfect blend of air management, design, and craftsmanship to enhance your riding experience, there's no need to worry about missing parts or compatibility issues - we've got you covered."  

It is recommended to run a 8 1/2" pullback riser handlebar to clear the fairing of this FXRP Style fairing fit kit - "we also have seen clearance with a T-bar or narrow ape hanger style handlebar."

The kit includes the polyester primed fiberglass fairing - after a test fit, it's ready to hand to your painter; powder coated neck bracket - a unique bracketing solution for specific motorcycles; 7" headlight mount (headlight not included); clear headlight cover with gasket; 9" Flare windshield for FXRP style fairings in dark smoke and all necessary fasteners and hardware.  

KLOCK WERKS

www.getklocked.com

Kraus Moto

Kraus Moto - Additions 

Thermal Gold 1" KR Low Bars

These ergonomic new Kraus Moto 'Thermal Gold' 1" handlebars are precision manufactured in 100% stainless steel for improved control, confidence and superior handling. "Designed for the next level with unbeatable performance and durability, KR Low Bars bring the hands into an optimal position for superior control. The closer your hands are aligned with the center of the front end's rotation, the more responsive your bike becomes.

"We give them a refined, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish so they shout 'performance' and clearly look like they are a quality construction, built to withstand the rigors of hard riding, with easy fitment and laser markings for perfect setup alignment."

Available 29" wide with 2.5"pullback, 2" rise and 3.25" center-to-center height they are compatible with heated grips. Laser-etched alignment calibration makes it easy to install them accurately and keep them adjusted to the required riding position. They are pre-slotted for all year and model fitments for both Throttle by Wire (TBW) and regular cable throttle applications.

These bars work with Kraus 1" Isolated Risers - when ordering the Isolated Riser select 1" for the Bar Clamp Size (NOT 1 1/8th"); shims can be purchased separately if 1-1/8" midsection is currently being used. 2014-2023 OEM Road Glide Perch Clamps (36700246, 41700321) will not fi,; please source OEM PN (4700320) or purchase Kraus Perch Clamps (HD-HC-01-B) separately.

All Kraus Motor Co. products are designed and engineered to be compatible with OEM fitments.

Rigid Solid-Mounted LUX Risers

Kraus rigid, solid-mounted, proprietary vibration-dampened mid-section LUX risers "elevate front end precision and control to the next level of design and quality."

Replacing the stock plastic gauge housing, "encasing the stock gauges with precision, performance, and luxury, this combines the best of both worlds - performance, visibility, and luxury styling - into one of the most stylish top-mounted gauge relocation risers available for the Road Glide."

Accepting the factory gauges (they not fit Dakota Digital gauges), they are available in multiple heights to match the rider's needs and preferences. The Isolated Riser Technology dampens vibrations while still being rigid mounted - designed for 1 1/8" inches bar clamping size.

LUX Top Plate

Crafted with a bold precise quality, the LUX Top Plate mounts to the Kraus Isolated Risers and puts the gauge right under the rider's eyes. This Top Plate allows gauges to be placed front and center without sacrificing the visibility of  LCD radio/GPS screens. It is made in lightweight billet aluminum with a bold style, they house the OEM Road Glide Gauge (2015-2023).

Compatible with any Kraus Isolated Riser they are designed for a 1-1/8" clamping area only, offered in black anodized or machine finish for 2015-2023 Road Glide Stock Gauges.

Kraus EZ-Shift 

The Kraus EZ-Shift changes the shifter's leverage ratio making it easy to find neutral at slow speeds and even at a dead stop. Available for M-8 and Twin Cams, the greater leverage makes smooth shifts across all gears - reducing shifting effort by 20% and allowing riders to find the right gear every time. 

Twin Cam

M-8

They can be used with stock shift or aftermarket levers - "they work great with short levers" - and easily bolt on in 5 minutes. They fit all M-8 Baggers and Softails and are billet machined from high grade material. 

By offsetting the shift location, the ratio changes to create just a little longer throw on the toe lever - smoothing out the gear change. Ideal for urban riders - plus, if you pop it into neutral at the light and release the clutch, the bike will run cooler, and the clutch and fluid will last longer. 

KRAUS MOTOR CO.

www.krausmotorco.com

Jekill & Hyde

J&H - VOX Exhaust for 1250 cc Scout

Dr. Jekill & Mr. Hyde, the Netherlands based sound management exhaust specialist, has announced pre-order availability for what it is describing as its "revolutionary" VOX exhaust system for the Indian Scout 1250. This "innovative" 4.5inch "premium exhaust" is available for the 1,250 cc Scout Classic, Bobber, Super Scout and 101 Scout that are new for 2025.

At the heart of the new VOX system is a patented, electronically adjustable valve with tried, tested and proven sound control electronics. Operated from a handlebar mounted switch, the three sound modes allow riders to legally tune their exhaust sound 'on the fly', according to the riding circumstances they are in.

The three modes are the standard Dr. Jekill Mode - "for quiet, relaxed moments"; the Mr. Hyde Mode - "for a powerful, deep sound" and the "Dynamic Mode" - a mid-range combination of the two.

"The VOX exhaust system not only stands out with its sound but also with the design options available to riders. The exhaust comes in black or chrome, and riders can use the online configurator to choose between two different end caps in matching colors.

"These customization options ensure the VOX system seamlessly complements the appearance of the rider's chosen new Indian Scout 2025 model, combining stylish design with the best legal sound on the market.

"Using the user-friendly online configurator, customers can fully customize their VOX exhaust system online and place their order directly through their dealer."

THE JEKILL AND HYDE COMPANY

www.jekillandhyde.com

www.jekillandhyde.us