V-Twin Expo 2017 review, part 5
Kibblewhite Precision Machining: Will Kibblewhite (right, seen here with sales engineer Mike Perry) oversees a Pacifica, California, facility where the science of replacement and performance valvetrain really has been turned into an art form. From their acclaimed Black Diamond, Tensilite and White Diamond valve programs, to stems, retainers, springs, guides, seals, seats, tappets and shims, the “KPMI System” is materials and design matched system engineering that produces compatible components that work together in glorious harmony – a not inconsequential consideration where any engine is concerned, but not least in the V-twin layout; www.kpmi.us
Mid-USA: The Hazelwood, Missouri based distributor’s new 2017 ‘En-Cycle-Pedia’ catalog showcased the results of another busy 12 months, adding further to its extensive own brand range, many new accessory brands, and a slew of products for Harley’s 2017 M-8 Touring models. At over 1,100 pages, their 2017 catalog includes many specialty products that prove that it is the details that matter as well as the big ticket items; www.mid-usa.com
RAM Mounts: Ranging from universal to custom, RAM offers a wide variety of bases to choose from depending on the style of bike and desired mounting location. Each base connects to their patented double ball and socket design - RAM was introduced in 1992 and offers “thousands of modular products for any adventure.” An innovative and versatile modular approach to managing a rider’s “creature comforts” it centers on a system of ball and socket mounts that revolve around an elastomeric rubber ball - incorporating a non-slip feature and shock and vibration dampening. Materials include high quality assembly hardware, durable composites, steel, stainless steel, rubber and aluminum; the mounting bases and complete kits are manufactured in the USA and come with a lifetime warranty; www.rammount.com
Magnum Shielding: CEO Scott Hurwitz (left) and Engineering Manager Chris Hughson introduced the new Magnum ‘Caliber’ handlebar kits for 1 ¼” Bagger and Ape Hanger handlebars with 12,” 14” and 16” height options for select ABS and non-ABS models. Based at Pittsford, New York, Magnum says this is the industry’s only truly complete kit that combines great fitting and perfectly matching braided brake lines and control cables with their new chrome plated or black powdercoat finish premium quality ‘Caliber’ handlebars; check out their newly rebuilt website at www.magnumshielding.com
James Gaskets: The Dayton, Nevada based market leading gasket and seals manufacturer is working hard on a major new product project that is leveraging their state-of-the-art R&D, materials science and manufacturing investments with a program that will see them staying at the cutting edge of the late model replacement and performance gasket market; www.jamesgaskets.com
The Leatherworks Inc: Home of the ‘Nickel’ saddlebags, Aimee Thacher always gets animated where quality materials and genuine craftsmanship are concerned, and that passion translates into just about the best quality design and craftsman made motorcycle luggage money can buy. Check out their leather-matched fitments for Indian models; www.leatherworksinc.com
Design Engineering Inc (DEI): A year ago, the award-winning Avon Lake, Ohio based noise control and thermal barrier specialist Design Engineering Inc. introduced an updated version of its award-winning flexible heat shields to include additional sizes and premium finishes. Since then further additions to the DEI range have included their Protective Split Sleeve – “great way to add additional protection to exposed wire looms, hoses and cables,” according to DEI’s Director of Motorcycle Products Brian VanKoevering. Most recently DEI has extended its best-selling titanium exhaust wrap with LR (lava rock) technology with a great looking satin black finish edition. Extremely popular with customizers and performance tuners, installation is easy because the material is more pliable and no pre-wetting is needed. It is temperature resistant to 1,800 degrees F (nearly 1,000 degrees C) and available in all of Design Engineering’s popular roll lengths; www.deipowersports.com