EICMA/'Milan' Show Canceled for 2020
Following the news that INTERMOT (Cologne, Germany, October) had been canceled until its next due event in 2022, Confindustria ANCMA (the National Association of Manufacturers of Bicycles, Motorbikes and Accessories) that owns and operates EICMA at Milan in November each year has, as expected, confirmed cancellation of its show until November 2021.
Paolo Magri, the President of Confindustria ANCMA and Managing Director of EICMA S.p.A., the company that organizes the show, is quoted as saying that "the decision has been taken with and for the whole sector.
"The importance and international status of our exhibition means that it would be inappropriate to gamble on how the health situation linked to the COVID-19 emergency will evolve and, above all, to listen to our stakeholders and protect the whole of the two-wheeler industry, its customers and the wider public."
Milan and the state of Lombardy were 'ground zero' for the COVID-19 pandemic in northern Italy, and while much of Italian society, commerce and manufacturing is embarked on a slow and careful path to reopening, the risks of acting too optimistically, too soon, are obvious.
It was only a matter of time before the decision to suspend the 78th iteration of a show that traces its origins back more than 100 years became official, especially once BMW and KTM/Husqvarna (big players in the German and Italian trade associations) had both announced (in early April) that they would not be exhibiting at either event.
Dates for 2021 are 9th to 14th November at the Fiera Milano, Rho - west of the Milan city center and around 30 minutes from Malpensa airport.
www.eicma.it
AFT to Join NASCAR Cup Series in Charlotte
AFT has filled in the details of its final TBA races for 2020 with confirmation that the 2020 Charlotte Half-Mile doubleheader races will run Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10, on the same weekend as the NASCAR Cup Series Bank of America ROVAL 400.
This three-day racing extravaganza will be the first time in history these two historic motorsports will run races in the same market, at the same venue, on the same weekend.
With over 60 years of racing history to its credit, Charlotte Motor Speedway (CMS) has become known as "America's Home for Racing." It will further solidify this title by hosting three back-to-back-to-back opportunities to witness high-speed motorsports action. On Friday and Saturday at CMS's The Dirt Track at Charlotte, the athletes in all three classes of American Flat Track will spend two nights vying for a spot in the AFT championship hunt. The weekend's action will culminate on Sunday with NASCAR's premier class, as its world-famous drivers attack the unique ROVAL 400 on the CMS road course.
Michael Lock, AFT CEO: "AFT and NASCAR are the two most American and most iconic of all motorsports, so we are delighted to be partnering with the team at Charlotte Motor Speedway to bring race fans this unprecedented and unique weekend of two and four-wheeled racing. The Dirt Track at Charlotte is one of the favorite destinations for our teams and riders as the facilities are outstanding and the famous Charlotte red clay makes for high speed thrills all evening."
A& reports that German automotive suspension giant Bilstein is to enter the motorcycle suspension market with a front fork and rear shock for the BMW S1000RR line (2009 and up). While targeting BMW for its first motorcycle product offering is no surprise, A&R believes that this is likely a first statement of intent at trying to prise away some motorcycle OEM business from the likes of Öhlins, Showa, Sachs and WP.
After a dispute that has been rumbling on since December 2011, BRP has secured a ruling in the Federal Court of Canada that recognizes that Arctic Cat infringed certain of its patents related to the frame of BRP’s (then) revolutionary Ski-Doo REV snowmobiles. The Court issued a permanent injunction ordering Arctic Cat and its Canadian dealers to stop the sale, use and distribution of any snowmobile which would infringe BRP’s frame patent. It also ordered Arctic Cat to pay BRP a royalty of CA$135 per unit that infringes the frame patent since MY2008.
An 18-race MotoGP series is now confirmed to get back underway after the one round only held so far this year (Qatar, March 8,) with consecutive weekends in Spain (19 and 26 July) at the Circuito de Jerez (the first two of six races now slated for Spain this year) before heading to Brno in the Czech Republic (Aug 9) and Austria (Aug 16).
The initial MotoGP plan will see a US GP at the Austin, Texas Circuit of The America at some stage after the final European race on November 15; theoretically followed by three more races outside of Europe for this year - Argentina, Thailand and a potential season finale at Malaysia.
Revival Cycles has rescheduled its 7th annual Austin, Texas Handbuilt Show for the weekend of November 13 - 15, 2020. The show would normally coincide with the US MotoGP at the Circuit of The Americas outside Austin, but Madrid, Spain, MotoGP organizer and rights holder Dorna has stated that, while it intends to hold a rearranged race there this season, it will be at least one weekend later as the series stays in Europe for 13 races before visiting any more international venues.
The AMA has postponed its 2020 Vintage Motorcycle Days (July 10 - 12, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course at Lexington). The event will be rescheduled for 2021.
Triumph Motorcycles is to fire 400 employees in response to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 health emergency. Some 240 of them will be from the company's already much reduced UK workforce at its Hinckley, Leicestershire "Centre of Excellence for Research and Development". CEO Nick Bloor: "These are not only challenging times for everyone as individuals, but also for the company. No business could have anticipated the scale of the coronavirus crisis and its economic consequences."
Triumph recently announced that all remaining volume production was moving to one of its three factories in Thailand. Turnover grew to £529.5m in the year to June 2019, when worldwide production was put at 60,131 bikes - at that stage only some 6 to 7,000 were thought to have been made at the UK factory. Pre-tax 2019 profits rose from £9m to £9.5m, while the amount spent developing new models rose from £36 to £43.4m.
The AMA has cancelled its 2020 Hillclimb Grand Championship, being organized by the Valley Springs Motorcycle Club and scheduled for Aug. 7-9 at the club's grounds in Bay City, Wi. The club will host the 2021 edition of the AMA Hillclimb Grand Championship on a date to be determined. The club's 500-foot-high hill was the site of AMA Hillclimb Grand Championships in 2012 and 2014.
Torch Eyewear has been named Official Sunglasses of AFT. The Florida-based company "marries the precision of an American design team with unparalleled craftsmanship and experience of its development team in Italy to produce a world-class product that is backed by generations of industry knowledge."
Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news
Germany: motorcycles +6.33% in May
Conclusive evidence that Germany's success in protecting its population from the coronavirus pandemic has translated into also protecting the German economy comes in the form of the latest data from the IVM, the motorcycle industry trade association in Germany.
New registrations for May are up by +6.33% at 14,524 units for the month and are now 'only' down -10.75% YTD at 56,867 units.
The registration statistics in Germany for 2020 so far have been remarkable compared to Europe's other 'Big Five'. Having been +37.14% (4,446 units) in January and -3.98% in February (9,252 units), motorcycle registrations were -18.70% in March (16,581 units) and
-28.14% (14,524 units) in April, but have now started to recover spectacularly - suggesting that, so far, the demand hasn't gone away and that consumers will buy when they judge the moment is right.
Indeed, in total PTW terms, it looks very much like the theory that the urban mobility and isolation messages that PTWs have in their favour are being taken up by commuters.
Total PTW registrations in May in Germany were +23.39% at 24,433 units of all kinds for the month and are now running at just -2.97% (85,151 units) for the YTD.
In market share terms, BMW remains 'Top Dog' in its home market with a 24.39% share YTD (13,868 units sold and six models in the top 20), followed by Kawasaki, Honda, KTM and Yamaha, with Harley-Davidson in 6th spot, having sold 4,798 units in Germany for an 8.44% market share.
The top selling model was BMW's R 1250 GS (4,783 units YTD), followed by the Kawasaki Z900, Z650, Yamaha MT-07 and KTM 790 Duke and 690 SMC. Harley's top-seller was the Street Bob (19th with 629 units sold), followed by the Sport Glide, XL 1200 X and the Street Glide Special.
Last year saw the German motorcycle market grow by +4.38% to 113,039 units, with total PTW sales growing by +6.53% to 165,311 units.
HardDrive Additions
HardDrive, the Boise, Idaho based specialty Harley aftermarket and custom V-twin parts and accessory distribution division of Western Power Sports (WPS) has updated its 2020 program with several new brands, detailed in its latest new catalog supplement.
New brands and manufacturers for 2020 include Maywood, Illinois based National Cycle's high- strength, durable and optically correct Quantum coated polycarbonate screens; Riverside, California based 'Official AFT Grip' manufacturer ODI's Lock-On V-twin grips - including popular VANS/Cult 'Waffle' style grips; BOSS Audio products; KB Pistons; the Saddle Tramp range of V-twin Amp and radio install kits, speakers, LED lights, flasher modules and more by Metra Electronics; Cycle Craft service and repair parts and FLO Motorsports MX style footpegs, floorboards and levers for Harley applications.
Notable 2019 additions included Magna Flow exhausts, Bagger Nation, RSD Signature Series shock absorbers by FOX, Rocker Lockers, Rekluse clutches, Firebrand exhausts, Dunlop tires, Cyron lights and TBR exhausts.
Western Power Sports and HardDrive completed a new 245,000 sq ft warehouse at Midway, Georgia, in January this year as an upgrade to its former Memphis, Tennessee facility. The company also completed expansions at its California and Idaho headquarters facilities in 2019, taking its six strong distribution center network in the United States, which also includes Texas and Pennsylvania facilities, to nearly one million sq ft in total.
www.hdtwin.com
Drag Specialties Additions
Python 4 1/2" Scallop-Cut Slip-On Mufflers
Now available for '17-'20 FLHT/FLHX/FLHR/FLTR/FLTRX/FLTRU/FLTRK models, these massive 4 1/2" diameter chrome muffler bodies are said to be engineered to perfect the sound of the M-8 engine. The high-velocity shielded cores offer protection from heat discoloration while still producing outstanding performance gains. The mufflers are fifty-state emission compliant.
High-Performance Oil Pump
The Drag Specialties high-performance oil pump for '17-'20 M-Eight twin-cooled motors helps reduce oil carryover during high rpm operation. The oil pump features a high-quality die-cast aluminum body and high-strength steel gear construction. It fits both stock and aftermarket cam support plates (except Screamin' Eagle cam plate) for a seamless installation.
Predator III Seats with Extended Reach
For those with a longer inseam, the new Predator III extended reach seat moves the rider back 1½" compared to the stock seat. It features a 6" tall driver support with unique styling, covered in high-quality automotive-grade vinyl. The molded polyurethane foam provides maximum comfort and has a narrow driver's cut for better leg clearance. The thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit, while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers protect paint. Available in smooth or double-diamond stitch with black, silver or red thread for '08-'20 FLHT/FLHR/FLHRC/FLTR/FLHX/FLHTC/FLHTCU models.
Battery Cable Kits
Now available for '09-'17 Softail and '10-'13 XL models, Drag Specialties' battery cable kits are manufactured with pure electrolytic-grade, 36-gauge tinned copper strands - ensuring flexibility without sacrificing current transfer and feature 1/4" and 5/16" terminals for maximum current boost to the starter motor.
Ignition Coil
Drag Specialties' dual-fire ignition coil for '18-'20 Softail models provides powerful spark and reliable performance. This coil will make for stronger starts and eliminate high-speed misfires in addition to increasing mileage. With a 30,000V output, this coil has a peak spark voltage increase of at least 20% more than the stock coil. It is a direct replacement for ignition coil OEM #31600067.
Flaming Skull Derby Covers
Made from die-cast aluminum, these covers are for '04-'20 XL models and designed to match the Drag Specialties Flaming Skull points covers. Available in chrome with chrome flaming skull or matte black with silver flaming skull.
DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com
Pro Fill Air Chuck
Loomis, California based Motion Pro, the 'Official Tools, Cables and Controls' brand to American Flat Track racing, continues to add regularly to its V-twin tools and accessory programs.
Like a lot of the best ideas, simplicity and ergonomics are the Tech's friend, and the Pro Fill air chuck seen here answers a perennial issue, as the V-twin product specialist, Joe Fratis, says, "getting to a hard to reach tire valve can make tire filling a big pain.
"The Pro Fill air chuck from Motion Pro provides an innovative swivel head, making it easy to reach any tire valve with tight clearances. The patented pivot head on the Pro Fill air chuck rotates to adjust the angle relative to the handle and obtain the best positioning possible to easily fill tires.
"The Pro Fill air chuck can be connected to your air source with use of a standard 1/4 NPT female inlet and also is a great complement to the Motion Pro digital tire pressure gauge. The versatile Pro Fill air chuck works great on most motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs."
MOTION PRO
www.motionpro.com
Retro Style Fork Protectors
A hallmark of the streetbikes of yesteryear, the advent of chromed, polished, DLC and anodized fork tube finishes saw the use of fork boots diminish to the point where there are very few major brand middleweight and above models that come with them as stock.
However, they are one of those finishing touches that convincingly "speak retro", adding a touch of authenticity, and they do still have a role to play - extending seal life and protecting those expensive fork tube finishes from the rigors of street riding - especially in bad weather and in urban settings.
Made of heavy-duty, ozone-resistant rubber, they fit 39 mm tubes and come with an extra rib for a "more relaxed look".
TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
Manual Slave Cylinder for M-8 Hydraulic Models
Boise, Idaho based Rekluse Motor Sports has released a manual slave cylinder for M-8 models. The new bolt-on upgrade design decreases lever pull effort and expands the friction zone, reducing hand fatigue and improving control for smoother take-offs.
"The hard anodized billet aluminum components deliver enhanced sealing and premium durability. This new slave cylinder is the perfect complement to any clutch - our TorqDrive, RadiusX, other aftermarket, or OEM."
Rekluse Product Manager Austin Paden said: "We are excited to offer this new add-on product that delivers a better riding experience. We took everything we have learned over our years of engineering and manufacturing high-performance slave cylinders and applied it to the Milwaukee-Eight platform. The result is a reliable product we are confident will make a difference for riders."
Available for hydraulic M-8s - 2017-2020 Touring, CVO Touring, Touring Police, Trike and 2017 Softail (FLSS, FLSTFBS, FXSE).
REKLUSE MOTOR SPORTS
www.rekluse.com
'95-'19 4.5" BAM Sticks
Lincoln, Nebraska based TAB Performance says that "if you are looking for a slip-on that is loud enough to wake the dead and keep you safe out there on the roads, then this is it. Our new 4.5" BAM Sticks with Zombie baffles will bring your bike to life. We also carry a quieter baffle options for those of you with aftermarket headers or if you want something a little less aggressive. The new 4.5" mufflers have all of the same great qualities as our 4" muffler with just a tad deeper exhaust note. Also, they will beautifully fill out the gap on the new stock extended bags." They are available in black and chrome.
TAB Performance, USA, www.tabperformance.com
No 'AMD' World Championship until at least the Spring of 2021
We didn't know for sure until mid-June, but the news that INTERMOT has been cancelled for 2020 comes as no great surprise. Despite Germany doing a better job of managing the coronavirus pandemic (and therefore of managing its economy) than any other of the 'Western' nations, its 'long game' approach has meant that, even by October, a public event that would bring together over 200,000 people in a confined indoor space was always looking vulnerable.
And even though it means there will be no AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building this year, let me be quite clear about this - I one hundred percent support and back this decision.
The complex mix of city, state and national policies and politics that confront an expo center in Europe, and the public, employee and exhibitor safety issues that the organizers have had to try to reconcile, are a mind-bendingly complex matrix of often competing priorities that has left major events in Europe such as INTERMOT entirely unsustainable - for this year at least.
Factor in the politics of an understandably risk averse exhibitor community that includes third party parts, accessory, gear and apparel vendors, as well as the motorcycle manufacturers themselves, and this was a square that was never going to be circled.
When BMW and KTM specifically, and in a clearly coordinated move, announced that they were pulling out of INTERMOT (and the EICMA/Milan Show), it just became a question of time before the trade association and exhibition center had to bow to the inevitable. For now, all that remains is for the Italian trade association (ANCMA) to similarly announce cancellation of EICMA for this year.
For the biennial INTERMOT, the next show (and therefore in theory the next AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building too) won't be until October 2022.
That means a 24-month delay and a 48-month gap between INTERMOT 2018 and the next show. That, for an expo that already had serious issues in terms of exhibitor community confidence and numbers, may well be such a momentum killer that the IVM and Koelnmesse must be concerned that this may well, effectively speaking, mark the end of the road for the show as anything other than a domestic German event.
Indeed, this may well be the final endgame for an outbreak of show wars that burst out into the open some 20 years ago when EICMA/ANCMA decided to end the traditional Cologne/Milan alternate annual show cycle that had served the market in Europe well for decades. In the late 90s, and then again conclusively for 2005, ANCMA's membership approved a plan to double dip profits by going annual.
Previously the two trade associations, the IVM in Germany and ANCMA in Italy, had gotten along well with each other, and there are various theories as to why the relationship fell apart. When the IVM was formed out of three weak and competing multi-purpose trade associations in Germany in 1996 after the last staging of the old IFMA 'Cologne Show' (then a joint motorcycle and bicycle market expo), the first move of the newly-formed IVM was to create a new show, INTERMOT, and take advantage of the sweetheart deal on offer from the new, state-of-the art expo center at Munich.
At that first show in 1998, ANCMA stunned everyone, including its German hosts, by announcing that they were going to take EICMA annual and by doing so, go into competition with IVM and INTERMOT. By 2005 the EICMA motorcycle show was annual, and ever since then 'Milan' has threatened to overshadow INTERMOT.
In the years following the financial crisis and up to the nadir of the market in Europe in 2014 both shows suffered, but as growth returned, EICMA's annual frequency put it in pole position and by last year had clearly become first choice with exhibitors and was attracting many more visitors.
INTERMOT had started to hemorrhage vendor confidence before the COVID-19 emergency and that would have resulted in a contraction of the show in October this year anyway. Now, with a 48- month cycle between shows in a market of uncertain strength in the years ahead, maybe we are now seeing the end of 20 years of head-butting and mutually assured destruction.
In terms of our involvement at INTERMOT with the AMD World Championship, whether or not the show (and by implication the IVM) has the budget or reason to stage custom-specific initiatives by 2022 remains to be seen. Personally, I would be very pleasantly surprised if they are able or willing to do so.
IVM and Koelnmesse have been unstinting in the generosity of their support for the 'AMD' since 2014 and, by extension, for the custom motorcycle market, and we are immensely appreciative of that support. But nothing is forever, and the 'AMD' has prospered by being prepared to embrace change in the past, and will no doubt now do so again now.
While we will explore future-facing options for 2021 and beyond, one thing is for sure, namely that while the health emergency remains, it would be singularly inappropriate for us to even start trying to plan an 'AMD' staging solution until at least into the spring of 2021 at the soonest. Nobody is safe until everybody is safe.
H-D has dropped out of Wall Street's S&P 500 - considered to be the most prestigious U.S. stock listing. The S&P is a composite index of the best performers, and at under $4bn Harley's market capitalization has fallen below the level currently required to the kind of trigger share price performance and returns required to secure a place in the index. Returning upper quartile S&P 500 share holder value had been a touchstone of former CEO Matt Levatich's business plan and a key pillar of his much vaunted and now discredited 'More Roads' strategic plan. Harley will now be listed in the S&P MidCap 400 class of investment opportunity.
As has been widely reported, and especially compared to European markets, new motorcycle sales have seen less decline in USA during the first four months of 2020 than elsewhere. Indeed, MIC data puts off-road machine sales at +30% for the year to April 30, with dual sport vehicles down only -5%, street bikes -23% and scooters - 24%. Overall PTW sales were down -9% YTD.
Comoto, owner of J&P Cycles, RevZilla and Cycle Gear, got off lightly in CARB (California Air Resources Board) penalty terms with some $1,937,500 payable to settle a slew of P&A sales infractions by its trading subsidiaries between 2015 and 2018. The total could have been way, way higher. Net of payments to environmental impact mitigation programs in California, $968,750 will be paid directly to CARB as a fine. The infractions revolve around some 7,000 plus instances of non-exempted parts being offered for sale without appropriate consumer use advisories (A&R).
Following a competitive bid process, Polaris Government and Defense has been awarded a seven-year contract to build U.S. Special Operations' newest vehicle - the Polaris MRZR Alpha will be assembled in its Minnesota manufacturing facility. The contract has a value of up to $109m. Polaris says it is the largest ultralight tactical vehicle provider for the U.S. military, with the MRZR Alpha being Polaris' 11th military vehicle produced in 12 years.
The MCIA, the UK motorcycle industry trade association, has cancelled its 2020 'Motorcycle Live' show at the country's NEC, Birmingham, in November. The largest motorcycle show in the UK, it usually attracts some 100,000 visitors and can trace its roots back to the 1920s. "MCIA looks forward to welcoming exhibitors and visitors to 'Motorcycle Live' 2021 between 20th - 28th November 2021".
Former H-D and Indian Motorcycle executive Chris Bernauer has been named President of Harris Pontoons, a division of Brunswick Corp. Bernauer joins Brunswick from Harley where he has been the General Manager of Global Sales Operations & Dealer Development. He also held senior positions at McKinsey, Indian Motorcycle and Toyota.
Polaris has donated more than $110,000 to US off-road and all-terrain vehicles (ATV) organizations as part of its ongoing T.R.A.I.L.S Grant Program. The 12 nonprofit organizations that were awarded a Spring 2020 T.R.A.I.L.S grant received awards ranging from $3,500 to $10,000. "The grants will support the development, improvement and expansion of trails, and help educate riders on safe and responsible riding practices."
Even before the COVID-19 crisis, motorcycle and scooter sales in India had been soft (BS-6 emissions standards, rising prices and insurance rates etc). One result has seen Indonesia take over as Honda's number one PTW market. Indonesia's sales figures haven't increased over the past year, but a slower rate of decline has seen Honda sell 4.7 million units in India in 2019/2020 and 4.85 million units in Indonesia.
Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news
Race Series Camchest Kits for Twin Cam
Oceanside, California based specialist Feuling Parts' complete camchest kits include all the necessary components from top to bottom of the camchest, conveniently packaged under one part - "these combination kits not only ensure each individual part is designed to work and function together, but to do so in total harmony and take the guesswork out of the ordering process, providing the engine builder maximum reliability, peak performance and the coolest engine/oil temperatures obtainable," says Feuling CEO Luke Leatherman.
The kits include a Feuling high volume oil pump, high flow camplate, Reaper series camshafts, hydraulic roller lifters, adjustable pushrods, Timken bearings, gaskets, O-rings, exhaust gaskets, high grade ARP fasteners, washers, moly paste, Loctite and hardware.
The kits have been proven to deliver 25-35 degree cooler engine temperatures; 15-30 degree cooler oil temperatures; 15-30 more lbs of oil pressure; quieter and smoother engine operation and eliminate wet sumping, blow-by and oily air cleaners.
The chain drive conversion kits include conversion camshafts for '99-'06 Twin Cam engines that update the old mechanical style cams and tensioners to the new hydraulic tensioner system. The chain drive conversion kits also include the sprockets, hydraulic tensioners, chains and spacers needed for installation.
Reaper series cam options for the Twin Cam Race Series kits include the 574 with its "extremely smooth cam lobe design, creating a very smooth valve train motion," described as ideal for the 2,100 - 6,500 rpm range. Performance valve springs are required on '99-'04 engines, and performance pushrods and lifters are recommended.
"This cam gives a wicked power band for modified engines and is an excellent bolt-in for stock 96", 103" and 110" engines. It responds very well to modified cylinder heads, increased compression ratio, performance exhaust and intake systems - this is a great all-round camshaft with solid low end performance and mind blowing mid and top end power," says Leatherman.
Also available for these Twin Cam kits, the 594 Reaper cam requires high-performance valve springs, pushrods, lifters, carburetor and/or throttle body work, performance exhaust, intake and clutch.
"Large displacements respond well to increased compression ratio, and smaller displacements will require it. This is a fiercely performing camshaft for an array of engines sizes, large displacement 103", 110" and 124" engines looking for a superior torque band with excellent horsepower gains in heavy bikes (2,200 - 6,250 rpm) and smaller, high revving displacement 95" style engines in lighter bikes looking to twist the throttle and tap into some horsepower (2,500 - 6,800 rpm)."
A final option would be the Reaper 630 cam, which maintains low end performance with "eye blurring mid and top end power. It delivers vicious power gains, a wide streetable power band from what is a high-lift profile camshaft for high-performance engines with highly modified cylinder heads and compression ratio - great in the 2,500 - 6,900+ rpm range."
Carburetor and/or throttle body work will be required along with a performance exhaust and intake system, high-performance valve springs, pushrods and lifters.
DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com
www.feulingparts.com
Handlebar-Mounted Indian FTR 1200 ECM
Viola, Wisconsin based S&S Cycle has released what it believes is a look into the company's future with a new Engine Control Manager for the Indian FTR 1200 - a not often seen foray into motorcycle electrics from the masters of 'Proven Performance'.
"The Indian FTR 1200 is one of our favorite new machines," says Marketing VP David Zemla. "Inspired by Flat Track race bikes, it checks all the horsepower, technology and handling boxes this segment demands.
"The crew at S&S Cycle are big fans as well and last year launched several top-notch exhausts for the model (the stainless high pipe looks so right on the FTR!). This latest addition is a technology move and allows the base model FTR 1200 to enjoy the additional throttle modes that were otherwise only available in the S model."
The S&S Engine Control Manager is a handlebar-mounted switch that communicates with the bike's ECM and unlocks the Rain and Sport throttle modes that were previously unavailable on the base model - simple installation and an easy to access switch allow for quick mode changes and transform the bike in a single click.
S&S CYCLE INC.
www.sscycle.com
Ultima 113" Twin Cam Replacement Ready to Ship
Back in March we published news that Pevely, Missouri based Ultima Motorcycle Products was in the final development phase of its new Ultima 113 ci Competition Series '99-'06 Twin Cam replacement.
Well, the company had promised that it would be ready to ship by the summer and, despite the potential for delays to anyone's plans because of the health emergency, here we are four months later, and seen here is one of the production engines just waiting for the heads and final assembly before going out of the door.
The 113" Twin Cam replacement is a hydraulic chain tensioner, direct bolt-in engine for 1999-2006 "A" motor Twin Cam models that is available in black, silver or polished.
Just like Ultima's EVO style engines, "this engine features high quality components at an affordable price. Cases are cast in a permanent mold from C356-T6 aluminum. These cases utilize Timken sprocket shaft bearings.
"The crankshaft assembly is the same reliable crank assembly Ultima has been building for years. Dynamically balanced and featuring forged H-beam rods for a rock solid foundation, the pistons are forged aluminum from Mahle Motorsports and the heads feature conical valve springs, chromoly retainers, manganese bronze guides, compression releases and stainless steel valves."
Valvetrain components include an Andrews 67H set of cams and Ultima's 4140 steel adjustable pushrods, topped off with 4140 forged steel roller rockers.
The cam chest components include a billet oil pump and a billet cam support plate with late model hydraulic chain tensioners.
MIDWEST MOTORCYCLE SUPPLY
www.MidwestmcDealerExpress.com
www.ultimaproducts.com
Zodiac Additions
Arlen Ness - MX Style Floorboards
These Ness MX floorboards feature a detailed cut-through design with integrated rubber inserts for excellent foot traction. CNC-machined from a solid block of billet aluminum, with extended length for added foot room and comfort. Available in anodized finishes including black, blue, red and gold.
Rick's "Good Guys" XL Adjustable Brake and Clutch Lever Sets
These adjustable hand levers with TÜV and ABE are part of Rick's"Good Guys" design range - known for "perfect ergonomics and precision action". The distance between handlebar grip and lever can be adjusted in six positions to match finger length.
Lever pressure can be adjusted via an easy to use adjustment button at the pivot point. Lever travel can be varied by installing the long or short end pieces (both included). The lever bearing has noticeably less leeway than any stock lever.
Most riders will also appreciate the additional lever power when riding in stop-and-go traffic. They are CNC-machined by Rick's at its Baden-Baden, Germany headquarters. They are available in black or silver for all '96-'03 XL and XR Sportsters, '14 and up XL, '02-'17 V-Rod (hydraulic clutch), '96-'17 Dyna (cable clutch - except '16-'17 FXDLS Low Rider S), and versions for selected cable and hydraulic '96 to present Softails and Touring models.
Stealth Tribute Air Cleaner
This air cleaner was designed after the classic S&S two-throat intake. A true tribute piece, which is an excellent choice for the retro enthusiasts who like their bike reminiscent of the good old days. Available for most recent models as a complete kit; other applications require the separate purchase of a Stealth air cleaner kit plus the cover of choice. Applications are available for a wide range of selected specification XG750A, XL, Evo Big Twins, Twin Cam Big Twins and M-8 models.
110-Piece Metric, UNC and UNF Size Tap and Die Set
This tungsten steel tap and die set is intended for semi-professional use and comes in a sturdy plastic box. The set includes two die holders, two tap holders, one T-holder and pre- and main cutter taps.
ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV
www.zodiac.nl
V-Factor Custom Shocks and Accessories
Premium Shock Absorbers for Big Twins and Sportsters
New from Hazelwood, Missouri based Mid-USA, these new V-Factor premium shock absorbers for Big Twins and Sportsters feature adjustable preload, short style covers and come black painted with chrome or black springs and covers and fit 1/2" mounting studs.
They are available in 11 and 12" for 4-speed Big Twins 1973 - 1986 (except Softails) and in 11, 12, 13 and 14.25" eye to eye length for 1979 - 2003 Sportsters.
MX Style Footpegs for Custom Use
Available in black or silver anodized, these new V-Factor MX style billet footpegs fit 1995 and up H-D male mount footpeg mounts - rider, passenger or forward controls.
The pegs can be rotated and locked down for adjustment and are 2 1/4" wide x 3 1/2" long; the steel teeth deliver a real gripping traction for rider safety and confidence.
Mini Footboards for all Models
New V-Factor 3" and 4" wide mini floorboards with non-slip rubber treads come in chrome or black for all models and can be used in place of male mount footpegs on passenger pegs and highway bar pegs and clamps.
17" Solo Seats for Custom Use
These new Hardbody by Mid-USA 17" solo seats have genuine black leather covers, are 16" long and hand-stitched with a deep draw formed steel powder-coat base plate and polyurethane foam padding.
They use a universal front seat hinge mount, have seat spring studs and can be used with additionally available seat conversion kits and V-Factor solo seat springs - available in antique copper, chrome and black, 2", 3" and 5".
MID-USA
www.mid-usa.com
www.mid-usa.ca
Indian Motorcycle Upgrade Lighting Products
Oreland, Pennsylvania based NAMZ Custom Cycle Products "is all about providing the very best electrical products for motorcyclists," says CEO, founder and chief engineer Jeff Zielinski.
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| LLC-LHC-7B |
"Which is why Letric Lighting Co., a division of NAMZ CCP, has a new line-up of products available for the Indian Motorcycle line. Our budget friendly designs match current demands along with performance and style."
The new line features LED headlamps, passing lamps and turn signals, as well as an array of accent and custom lighting options. "These ultra-bright LED products will ensure you are seen during the day and at night. A perfect upgrade from the standard lighting, these LEDs are easy to install and available in several styles.
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| NITS-R02 |
"Our headlamps are offered in black or chrome and several different styles to complement the bike's style, and all are 100% plug-n-play for all 2014-up models.
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| LLC-LHK-7C |
Celebrating 21 years in business, providing "world class" electrical components, LED lighting, Badlands lighting modules, wiring harnesses and installation supplies, NAMZ CCP and Badlands products are available through Drag Specialties, Parts Unlimited, Tucker, Mid-USA, J&P Cycles, V-Twin, Parts Canada, Parts Europe, Custom Chrome Europe, Motorcycle Storehouse, W&W, Zodiac, Rollies Speed Shop and Performance Cycle Wholesale Limited. Letric Lighting Co. products are available through Tucker and Rollies Speed Shop, or directly from the company's website.
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| LLC-IPLH |
NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS
www.namzccp.com
Twin Power Additions
4.25-inch M-8 Big Bore Cylinders
Generally accepted as the go-to for M-8 upgrades, 4.25" big bore cylinders have become established as the M-8 upgrade sweet spot.
These Twin Power 4.25 inchers are factory fitted for the popular Wiseco Black Edition pistons. When combined with Twin Power gaskets, a 107 cubic inch engine can be converted to 124 cubic inches, and a 114 cubic inch to 128 cubic inches.
Twin Power Brand Manager James Simonelli says: "This is strictly a bolt-on kit, as the special gaskets eliminate the need to weld or otherwise modify oil or water passages. Machining of the crankcase is also not required. Gasket kits are available with either .030" or .040" thick head gaskets based on the builder's preference."
The cylinders are offered in a factory style black textured powder-coat finish with highlighted fins. Cast-in iron liners ensure strength, durability and quiet operation. Cylinders are sold in pairs and include cylinder head dowels.
"The M-8 has shown incredible performance potential, and this kit really wakes up a stocker," says James. "On a 107" dresser with no headwork, TTS 250 cam and valve springs, 62 mm throttle body, a performance intake and 2:1 exhaust, we achieved 139.63 hp and a whopping 142.65 ft. lbs. of torque with a tabletop flat torque curve."
Crankshaft Position Sensor
Twin Power offers a crankshaft position sensor with exact OEM fit, form and function. Endurance tested to 60,000 miles to ensure sensor longevity; OEM-style connector.
O2 Sensor
"Twin Power oxygen sensors are precision-made for outstanding performance. They feature extra-high temperature dual-shield ends and are direct fit. No modifications are needed. Made in the USA, they meet OEM specifications.
Cam Change Gasket Kits
Kits include all gaskets, seals and O-rings necessary for a camshaft change.
34T Compensator Eliminators
Twin Power 34T compensator eliminators eliminate slipping, reduce noise and improve starting and starter life and reduce spinning weight by 4.8 lbs. Machined from 4140 tool steel and heat-treated, they do not require alternator rotor replacement. Available for a wide range of M-8 Touring/Softail and Twin Cam Big Twins as appropriate.
TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin
www.twinpower-usa.com
EICMA/'Milan' Show Canceled for 2020
