Harley-Davidson

H-D revives Super Glide with 2,500 Limited Edition 250th Anniversary Specials

 

In celebration of America's 250th anniversary, Harley has added an homage to its iconic Super Glide with a new 'Liberty Edition' Road Glide added to its 2026 'Enthusiast Collection' offering.

The new limited-edition Super Glide motorcycle marks 55 years after the original 'Factory Custom' motorcycle launched in 1971. "The 2026 model's definitive cruiser stance, laced wheels, brilliant chrome and classic paint and graphics are a tribute to the original 1971 Super Glide. Production will be limited to 2,500 serialized motorcycles and presented in 2026 as a Special Edition to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S.A."

The 1971 Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide was one of the first complete motorcycles styled by Willie G. Davidson, who joined the Motor Company as a designer in 1963 and was inspired in part by home-built custom motorcycles he had seen prowling the streets of Los Angeles.

The FX Super Glide combined the Big Twin FL chassis with a narrow XL Sportster front fork. Its white finish with red and blue striping and stretched Bar and Shield tank graphic are reprised on the 2026 Super Glide model. The 2026 Super Glide will only be offered in the United States and Canada with an MSRP of $15,999.

In addition to the wire wheels, this 2026 Super Glide special features a five-gallon teardrop fuel tank topped with a chrome console, and a chrome mini ape handlebar; an M8 117 Classic V-Twin; the fuel tank and fenders are finished in White Onyx Pearl paint topped with red and blue fender striping and graphics inspired by the 1971 Super Glide model, with serialization presented on the fuel tank console, and brilliant chrome powertrain trim and covers including air cleaner cover, single muffler exhaust, side covers, rear fender struts, signals and headlamp.

News Briefs

Jochen Zeitz earned $8.72m in 2025 despite working only nine months. Artie Starrs received $8.59m in total compensation after joining Harley-Davidson in October - a one-time $2m cash award and $6.13m in stock awards. Starrs worked at Harley for three months of 2025 after his hiring - his $1.2m annual salary was prorated to $304,000. He also benefited from a package of incentives related to his hiring. Starrs was also paid $162,971 to cover expenses for relocating to the Milwaukee area from Dallas, where his prior employer TopGolf is based/MBJ.

AFT has announced Drag Specialties as the official entitlement sponsor of the 2026 DuQuoin Mile presented by Parts Unlimited (July 4, at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in DuQuoin, Illinois.

Harley has recalled over 88,000 2024-2026 FLTRX, FLHX, 2025-2026 FXBR, FLFB, 2025 FLHXU, 2026 FLTRXL, FLTRT, FLHXL, and FLHLT motorcycles (May 04, 2026). The pressurized crankcase may eject oil. When the dipstick is removed while the crankcase is pressurized, oil may eject from the file spout.

Switzerland - Acquired as a standalone business unit by Hostettler AG in 2019, Swiss distributor Parts World AG has now been folded into the parent company and integrated into their Motochic P&A division at their Sursee, Switzerland headquarters. At various stages since it was founded by Andy Matter in 1997. At various stages in its near 30-year history the respected distributor has been associated with brands such as Akrapovic, DEI, Fehling, Kellermann, Kineo, Müller, Performance Machine, Rizoma, Roland Sands Design and Zard.

Indian conglomerate and Harley partner Hero MotoCorp has reported record-breaking financial results for its full 2025-26 financial year (FY26 - April 2025 - March 2026). The company sold 5,842,549 motorcycles (+6.68%) and 626,285 scooters (+53.19%), exporting 402,786 units, marking international a growth of +40.13%. At the time of writing, it is thought that Hero MotoCorp will be the manufacturer of the MY 2027 planned Sprint - likely based on the Hero's oil-cooled X440T single.

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.

USA - Importers can now begin filing for refunds on certain tariffs following the April 20 launch of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's new Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system. The refunds stem from tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act that were later struck down, prompting the development of a formal process to return duties paid on eligible entries.

Europe - Harley-Davidson and Jeep have announced a European partnership. Both brands will participate in 2026 motorcycle season Harley events in Europe. Having started at Harley's European Spring Rally at Senigallia in Italy at the end of April, the two will be at other H-D flagship events in Europe in 2026. These will include The European H.O.G. Rally, Cascais, Portugal (June 18-21); European Bike Week, Faak am See, Austria (September 8-13); the International 'Ladies of Harley' event at Pescara, Italy (October 3) and the H.O.G. Winter meeting, Genoa, Italy (November 28). 

Harley-Davidson Revolution Max

H-D to Return Revolution Max Production to U.S. Facilities

In a move described as supporting CEO Artie Starrs' 'Back to the Bricks' and "leaning into strategy and leans into Company's American manufacturing footprint" Harley is to bring production of the Revolution Max platform for North America sales units back to the United States as part of the Company's 'Back to the Bricks' strategy.

The production transition is expected to be completed ahead of the start of Model Year 2028 production in 2027. Harley-Davidson expects to manufacture over 100,000 motorcycles out of the Company's York, Pennsylvania facility in 2027.

In a statement Harley-Davidson said that "for more than a century, Harley-Davidson has invested in American manufacturing, skilled workers, and the communities that build our motorcycles."

This announcement will see "another step forward by bringing production of the Revolution Max platform for North America - including Pan America, Sportster S, and Nightster models - back to the United States. This move returns machining, powertrain assembly, painting, and final vehicle assembly work to our facilities in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, supporting dozens of additional American manufacturing and union jobs.

"The Trump Administration's changes to U.S. trade policy, combined with shifts in the global trade environment, have created new opportunities for companies to invest in domestic manufacturing. For Harley-Davidson under our new CEO Artie Starrs, this means we are able to lean even further into our American manufacturing footprint and build more motorcycles here at home. This decision, which has been months in the making, reflects our commitment to strengthening Harley-Davidson's manufacturing base for the long term."

Bill Davidson, Vice President, Special Advisor to the CEO and Global Brand Ambassador, said, "My family has spent generations working in this company, and I've seen firsthand the pride, craftsmanship, and hard work that go into building Harley-Davidson motorcycles in America. 

"My father, Willie, my sister, Karen, and I are incredibly excited about what's happening at Harley-Davidson. Bringing this work back home is another important step in getting back to the bricks, investing in American manufacturing, and building on the values that have made Harley-Davidson one of the most iconic brands in the world."

The news comes following Indian Motorcycle CEO Mike Kennedy's announcement that the now independently-owned manufacturer will bring its overseas (specifically, Thai) production back to its Spirit Lake, Iowa factory.

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle - Anniversary Editions

In celebration of 125 years "of iconic, American craftsmanship", Indian Motorcycle has announced an exclusive, limited-edition motorcycle and apparel collection. 

Featuring three hand-painted models with exclusive 125th anniversary badging and premium componentry, the 125th Anniversary Collection and apparel line offers riders an exclusive opportunity to own a piece of Indian Motorcycle history.

"One hundred and twenty five years is a historic milestone and a true testament to the riders whose passion for the brand kept the spirit of Indian Motorcycle alive and remains our driving force to this day," said Mike Kennedy, Indian Motorcycle Company CEO. 

"As we celebrate our anniversary, this special-edition collection of motorcycles and apparel reflects our pride as an iconic American brand and our unyielding commitment to craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and class-leading performance."

"This lineup represents the highest level of craftsmanship we've ever achieved" said Ola Stenegärd, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle. "Every motorcycle was painstakingly designed and refined, not just to perform, but to tell a story. 

"The design of the 125th Anniversary Collection pays tribute to the legacy that built Indian Motorcycle, making every model not just a machine, but a lasting symbol of our history and our commitment to American craftsmanship."

The line-up features a 125th Anniversary Edition Chief Vintage (250 available worldwide), Scout Bobber (450 available globally) and Indian Challenger (250 available globally).

Indian Motorcycle has also developed a complementary limited-edition apparel collection.

www.indianmotorcycle.com

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties - Additions

Sportster Steering Damper Kit

Help take 'speed wobble' out of the equation with this Drag Specialties' Steering Damper Kit. Designed to help damp unwanted fork oscillations, commonly known as 'speed wobble', the seven-position, hydraulic steering dampers are fully adjustable and allow full fork movement from stop to stop. 

The dampers and hardware come in a satin chrome finish, and the kit includes all required mounting hardware and instructions. This kit fits 21-26 RH125OS Sportster.

Quick Connect Braided Upper Clutch Cables

Quickly and efficiently replace the OE upper clutch cable with a quick connect upper braided cable from Drag Specialties. The cable easily and quickly connects to the OE lower clutch cable section to significantly reduce installation time; there is no need to drain the transmission fluid. Cables also come pre-lubricated for smooth, consistent long-lasting action.  

The design meets or exceeds the OE specifications, and the OE cable cover and housing can be re-used. The cables are available with stainless steel, black/chrome or black/black cable housing and fittings in 42" alternative cable length for 24-25 FLHX and 23-25 FLHXSE models. 

Adjustable Width Floorboards

These new top-quality floorboards for Drag Specialties by Gilles are German designed and precision manufactured to the highest possible tolerances and fit.  They feature CNC-milled 6082 T6 aluminum for strength and style. The adjustable width creates a custom fit. 

The floorboards use the OEM mounts for installation. Available in a black finish for 99-25 FLHT/FLHR/FLHX/FLTR/FLTRU/FLTRK/FLTRX, 09-13 H-D FL Trike, 00-17 FLST and 12-16 FLD models, they are sold in pairs. 

Predator III 2-Up Seats for Indian

This new Drag Specialties Predator III 2-Up Seat features a 6 1/2" tall driver support with unique styling. The seating area is contoured for maximum comfort with the rear portion measuring 7" wide for easy riding. The 3/16" thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit, while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers protect the bike's paint. 

Covered in automotive-grade vinyl, the seat is available Double Diamond stitch with black, red or silver thread. All seats include mounting hardware and are designed to fit 20-25 Challenger, 25 Chieftain (108"/112" Liquid Cooled Powerplus). 

Starter Drive Housings

This Drag Specialties starter drive housing is a high-quality upgrade, engineered for reliability and durability. A direct replacement for the OEM housing it is available to fit 81-88 FLT/FXR models. 

DRAG SPECIALTIES

www.dragspecialties.com

Heartland USA

Heartland USA - 300 Rear Tire Conversion for M8 Softails

Killeen, Texas based high-end motorcycle conversions and rear fender systems specialist Heartland USA has announced what it describes as its "most aggressive conversion to date" - the 300 Rear Tire Conversion Kit for 2018 to Present M8 Breakout and Fatboy models.

Long known worldwide for "transforming stock Harley-Davidsons into custom masterpieces without the need for frame surgery" Heartland USA's latest kit allows riders to fit a massive 300 mm Metzler tire onto the M8 platform. "This kit isn't just a wide tire - it is a complete reimagining of the bike's profile, stance and presence."

The 300 M8 Conversion is a comprehensive system in which precision engineering meets radical style for seamless integration. 

Features include Heartland's CNC-machined Billet Aluminum signature slotted fender struts, available in Chrome, Gloss Black, Black Wrinkle, or Satin Black. A raw steel fender and rock guard designed to showcase the massive 300mm tire for the 'Heartland Look' while maintaining the sleek lines the brand has been noted for decades.

The high-strength, gloss black powder coated custom-engineered mono-shock M-8 Softail steel swing arm is central to the 'Heartland System', with a complete drive system that includes a 1/4" primary offset kit and a 20 mm drive belt to ensure proper clearance and torque delivery.

Each kit comes with a custom leather-topped solo seat, compatible with Heartland's patented optional Second Seat quick-release system.

"At Heartland USA, we don't just sell parts," says Heartland's Lonny Spiva. "We convert bikes into the custom machines our customers have always dreamed of. The 300 M8 kit is the pinnacle of that mission. 

"It gives the M8 Breakout and Fatboy a look and stance that was previously only achievable through one-off custom builds."

The Billet Aluminum Fender Struts have built-in internal strut lights, with a short fender length that shows off more of that big 300mm tire. The conversion requires a custom offset wheel to insure correct clearances – separately available from Heartland USA and their wheel partners.

For the ultimate 'Heartland Look,' Lonny recommends pairing the kit with an Air Ride suspension to achieve a slammed, low-profile aesthetic.

HEARTLAND USA

www.heartlandbiker.com

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)