Polaris

Indian Motorcycle Up "Low-Thirties" Percent in Q4; Polaris Sales +4% for 2020 Full Year

Polaris has reported fourth quarter adjusted sales increased by +24% to $2,156m, with full year sales +4% to $7,028m. North American retail sales increased +28% for the quarter compared to 2019, led by strength in Off Road Vehicles (ORV), Motorcycles and Snow. "Boats retail sales were also strong during the quarter."
Motorcycles segment sales, including PG&A, totaled $147m, up +23% compared to the fourth quarter of 2019, driven primarily from increased sales of Slingshot and PG&A. Gross profit for the segment in the fourth quarter of 2020 was $1m compared to a $5m loss in the fourth quarter of 2019. "The increase in gross profit margin was driven by improved quality driving lower warranty costs, along with a decrease in promotional costs offset somewhat, by negative product mix as more mid-sized vehicles were sold during the quarter and increased costs from supply chain constraints.

"North American consumer retail sales for Indian Motorcycle increased low-thirties percent during the fourth quarter of 2020 in a weak mid to heavy-weight two-wheel motorcycle industry that was down mid-single digits percent. North American consumer retail sales for Polaris' motorcycle segment, including both Indian Motorcycle and Slingshot, increased high-thirties percent during the fourth quarter of 2020, while the North American motorcycle industry retail sales for mid to heavyweight motorcycles including three-wheel vehicles, was down low-single digits percent in the fourth quarter of 2020.
 

"weak mid to heavyweight two-wheel motorcycle industry"

Interim Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Inc. Mike Speetzen is quoted as saying that "the Polaris team once again demonstrated its strength and agility to deliver a strong finish to an exceptionally unusual year. While 2020 brought many unforeseen challenges, we emerged from the abrupt shutdown of the global economy early in the year to leverage the surge in demand across the Powersports industry and outdoor recreation, growing full year adjusted sales and earnings +4% and +22%, respectively.
"Our highly innovative product line-up of ORVs, snowmobiles and boats brought in new customers and powersports enthusiasts to Polaris. Over the year, we introduced over 120 new products across our portfolio and over 900 new accessories in our PG&A business and Aftermarket segment combined.
"While supply chain challenges remain front and center for Polaris and most of the industry as we enter 2021, the operational track record of our team gives me great confidence in our ability to navigate those constraints, rebuild dealer inventories, and continue to bring to market the highest quality, most innovative products and services in the powersports industry."
Adjusted gross profit margin was 25.6%, up 95 basis points versus last year primarily due to positive product mix and lower promotional costs, offset somewhat, by costs related to supplier constraints. Full year operating cash flow finished at a record $1.019bn.
Polaris announced full year 2021 sales and adjusted earnings guidance with full year adjusted earnings in the range of $8.45 to $8.75 per diluted share, and full year sales up in the range of $7,950m to $8,150m, an increase of 13% to 16%.
Fourth quarter reported net income was $3.15 per share; adjusted net income for the same period was $3.34 per share. Full year 2020 reported net income was $1.99 per diluted share; adjusted net income for the same period was $7.74 per diluted share, exceeding the high-end of previously issued guidance.
"Retail demand and industry tailwinds remained strong during the quarter benefiting Company performance as both new and existing customers continued taking advantage of off-road vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles and boats to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining social distancing etiquette."
Gross profit increased 30% to $550m for the fourth quarter of 2020 from $423m in the fourth quarter of 2019. Reported gross profit margin was 25.5% of sales for the fourth quarter of 2020, up 112 basis points compared to 24.4% of sales for the fourth quarter of 2019. The improvement in gross profits was primarily driven by positive product mix and lower promotional costs incurred during the quarter, offset somewhat by costs related to supplier constraints. Adjusted gross profit for the fourth quarter 2020 was $552m, or 25.6 percent of adjusted sales compared to the fourth quarter of 2019 adjusted gross profit of $428m, or 24.7 percent of sales. Adjusted gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2020 and 2019 excludes the negative impact of $2m and $5m of restructuring and realignment costs, respectively.
Operating expenses decreased one percent for the fourth quarter of 2020 to $304m from $308m in the same period in 2019. Operating expenses were lower due to decreased compensation expense related to the CEO departure, in addition to lower non-essential expenses driven by the Company's ongoing cautionary approach to spending given the pandemic-generated economic uncertainty. 

 "Q4 Polaris profit increased 30 percent"

Off-Road Vehicles and Snowmobiles segment sales, including PG&A, totaled $1,468m for the fourth quarter of 2020, up 29% compared to $1,140m for the fourth quarter of 2019 driven by broad based strength across ATV and side-by-side sales. PG&A sales for ORV and Snowmobiles combined increased 35% in the fourth quarter of 2020 compared to the fourth quarter last year.
ORV wholegood sales for the fourth quarter of 2020 increased 33%. Polaris North American ORV retail sales increased low-thirties percent for the quarter with side-by-side vehicles up high-thirties percent and ATV vehicles up high-teens percent. The North American ORV industry was up high-twenties percent compared to the fourth quarter last year.
Snowmobile wholegood sales in the fourth quarter of 2020 were $183m, up four percent compared to $176m in the fourth quarter last year. Polaris snowmobile retail sales were up low-twenties percent during the fourth quarter of 2020 compared to the prior year while North American industry retail was up mid-teens percent for the fourth quarter compared to the prior year.
Global Adjacent Markets segment sales, including PG&A, increased 18% to $142m in the 2020 fourth quarter compared to $120m in the 2019 fourth quarter driven by increases in demand in North America and EMEA.
Aftermarket segment sales of $238m in the 2020 fourth quarter increased eight percent compared to $221m in the 2019 fourth quarter. Transamerican Auto Parts (TAP) sales of $186m in the fourth quarter of 2020 increased one percent compared to $185m in the fourth quarter of 2019. The Company's other aftermarket brands' sales were up 45% compared to the fourth quarter of 2019. Gross profit increased 33% to $65m or 27.4% of sales in the fourth quarter of 2020, compared to $49m or 22.3% of sales in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Boats segment sales increased 20% to $162m in the 2020 fourth quarter compared to $135m in the 2019 fourth quarter, driven by strength from all three brands, Bennington, Godfrey and Hurricane.
Parts, Garments, and Accessories ("PG&A") sales increased 31% for the 2020 fourth quarter with all categories and business segments growing sales during the quarter.
International sales to customers outside of North America, including PG&A, totaled $266m for the fourth quarter of 2020, up 24% from the same period in 2019.              
The Company announced its sales and adjusted earnings guidance for the full year 2021. Sales are expected to increase to the range of $7,950m to $8,150m, an increase of 13% to 16% over 2020 adjusted sales of $7,025m and adjusted net income is expected to be in the range of $8.45 to $8.75 per diluted share for the full year 2021 compared to adjusted net income of $7.74 per diluted share for 2020. The full year 2021 earnings guidance includes an increase in tariff costs of approximately $40m for the full year 2021 as exemptions and refunds received in 2020 are not contemplated to continue into 2021.

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle - FTR Line-Up "Tuned for Optimal Street Performance"

Indian Motorcycle claims it is "taking the beloved FTR platform to a whole new level with a host of enhancements to the 2022 FTR line-up" that includes new 17-inch wheels, a thoughtfully refined engine, street tuned suspension, 17" tires and wheels, Metzeler Sportec Tires and lower seat height to "deliver world-class handling and performance."
In a bold claim, the company says that it "redefined what an American V-Twin can be with the introduction of the category-defying FTR platform in 2019" and that the range was "born and evolved as the ultimate intersection of style and performance." 

Mike Dougherty, President of Indian Motorcycle said: "The FTR is unlike any other motorcycle in its ability to deliver superior performance while making a powerful statement of style and self-expression. The updates we've delivered further solidify that promise for even the most discerning riders. Indian Motorcycle has always pushed the bounds of motorcycling, innovated, and continuously improved, and I think the new FTR is another great example of that."
The company believes that "amidst the ever-popular neo-retro segment, the FTR stands out thanks to its American heritage, iconic silhouette, and class-leading fit and finish.  In addition to style, the FTR delivers an unmatched feature set including a 4.3-inch digital touch screen display and a 1203 cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that produces 120 horsepower and 87 ft-lbs of torque.  
"The FTR has a totally unique feel. Our aim was to preserve that DNA, while at the same enhance and refine the bike," said Ben Lindaman, Product Director for Indian Motorcycle. "The end result is a stunning, one-of-a-kind motorcycle that oozes retro character but still begs you to twist the throttle and get after it."
All new FTR models feature a retuned engine calibration "that refines cold start performance, and delivers a smoother, more predictable throttle response."

FTR, FTR S & FTR R Carbon    
Outfitted with 17-inch cast aluminium wheels and Metzeler Sportec street tires – "smaller wheels, along with the bike's front and rear suspension (which offer 120 mm of travel) contribute to a lower seat height by 1.4 inches. Additionally, the ProTaper handlebars were trimmed by 1.5 inches (40 mm).
"These three models offer fully adjustable front and rear suspension, a new feature added to the FTR base, as well as cylinder deactivation to manage engine heat when the motorcycle is idle.
"Additionally, each FTR model packs a host of standard features that carry over from previous FTR iterations. An inverted front suspension tuned for the street, along with radially mounted dual Brembo brakes provide riders with exceptional control and superior stopping power, while cruise control contributes to a comfortable ride."

King Of The Baggers

King Of The Baggers: Five Rounds In 2021

The King of the Baggers debut at the WeatherTech Raceway, Laguna Seca, California, in November 2020 is considered to have been such a rousing success that it will return in 2021 - with a five-round series held in conjunction with the 2021 MotoAmerica HONOS Superbike Series. "Naysayers be damned," says MotoAmerica! 

The series, which adds fuel to the fire of one of the oldest rivalries in motorsport, Harley-Davidson vs. Indian, will begin at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, April 30-May 2, in Braselton, Georgia, and conclude September 17-19 with the MotoAmerica season finale at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.
In between there will be rounds at Road America in Wisconsin, back at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in California and at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex.
While the debut of the King of the Baggers was an invitational, the 2021 series will be wide open to all qualified AMA license holders, with championship points being tallied at every round and a National Champion to be crowned at the season's end.
"Honestly, the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers debut race at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca went better than we even dreamed of," said race legend and MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. 

 

"The popularity of the event was crazy, so how could we not do more? We know there are plenty of Bagger fans out there as our videos of the debut Laguna event were watched by millions. Having five races gives us the opportunity to bring King of the Baggers to fans in several different areas of the country. We've also opted to make the series open to any qualified racer, which should bring new teams and new bike builds to the series from the aftermarket and motorcycle dealers who specialize in baggers."
The debut of the King of the Baggers at WeatherTech Raceway in November was won by S&S Indian's Tyler O'Hara over Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson's Hayden Gillim, with Roland Sands Designs-backed Frankie Garcia finishing third on his Indian.
Comment - Kudos to Drag Specialties for acting as the catalyst for the inaugural race in 2020 and setting in motion a program that could secure the viability of the burgeoning Performance Bagger market for years to some.

Progressive American Flat Track

AFT 2021 Schedule

Progressive American Flat Track has released a 17-event race schedule for 2021. The season will launch with a reprise of the Volusia Half-Mile I & II doubleheader on Friday, March 12 and Saturday, March 13 during Daytona Bike Week and will culminate at the racing mecca of Charlotte Motor Speedway on October 8.
“The schedule for 2021 has been eagerly and patiently awaited by everyone associated with the sport,” said Michael Lock, CEO. “We are delighted to be able to welcome back to the series some iconic venues, complementing the well-established fan favorites across the country.”

After a 2020 kickoff featuring an AFT Singles battle for the record books, Progressive AFT is thrilled to return to Volusia Speedway for another back-to-back exhibition of season-opening race action. "Progressive AFT will not be racing at Daytona International Speedway during its 2021 season but looks forward to returning in upcoming seasons."
New to 2021 is Progressive AFT’s premiere event at Atlanta Motor Speedway. "One of two TT events for 2021, the inaugural Atlanta Super TT will be an event unlike any other on the calendar, with a custom-designed TT track built inside one of the country’s premier sports entertainment facilities.
"A long-standing staple to the circuit, Progressive AFT roars back into the Lonestar State on Saturday, May 22 for the return of the Texas Half-Mile at Texas Motor Speedway. A particularly exciting weekend at TMS, the Texas Half-Mile will run in conjunction with a soon-to-be-announced motorcycle festival that will be a destination for two-wheeled enthusiasts from all across the nation.
"There are multiple historic favorites making their return to the circuit after popular demand. After nearly a decade and a half away, Progressive AFT will be bringing the thunder back to Dirt Oval Route 66 for the Chicago Half-Mile in Joliet, Ill. on Saturday, May 29 during Memorial Day Weekend festivities.

 

"Fans can also mark their calendars for the OKC Mile I & II, a mid-June doubleheader at Remington Park. A consistently sold-out race, this Father’s Day weekend doubleheader will certainly be an unmissable event for any race fan.
"One of the longest-running races on the schedule, the Lima Half-Mile will once again draw sold-out crowds to Allen County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 26.
"2015 was the last time Progressive AFT put on a show for its diehard fans in DuQuoin, Ill. 2021 brings back the DuQuoin Mile on Saturday, July 17. Winner of 2015 Bryan Smith and second place finisher Jared Mees will take to the track in hopes of defending their reign over a circuit many of their competitors have yet to race upon.
"Port Royal Speedway, a venue with deep roots in dirt track racing, welcomes Progressive AFT for its first event – the Port Royal Half-Mile – in Port Royal, Penn. on Saturday, July 24.
"The Series will continue its run in the northeast with the New York Short Track at Weedsport Speedway on Saturday, August 14.
"The Peoria TT, a race with true historical significance, returns on Saturday, August 21 bringing back the opportunity to score one of the most coveted victories for riders in Progressive AFT competition.
"Additionally, the famed Springfield Mile will once again run as a back-to-back Labor Day Weekend doubleheader, providing fans the unique opportunity to see rivalries unfold over two-days of the fastest dirt track racing in the world.
"A season-long battle for championship rights will close on Friday, October 8 in the sanctuary of American motorsports, Charlotte, North Carolina with the finale Charlotte Half-Mile. This event will begin an epic race weekend as the NASCAR Cup Series takes to the track at Charlotte Motor Speedway the following Sunday."
Progressive AFT will continue to implement its precautionary race-day procedures and COVID-19 safety protocol. These guidelines will continue to be examined and updated to follow specific guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local event area authorities.
www.americanflattrack.com

2021 Progressive American Flat Track Schedule:

1. March 12: Volusia Half-Mile I – Volusia Speedway, Barberville, FL
2. March 13: Volusia Half-Mile II – Volusia Speedway, Barberville, FL
3. May 1: Atlanta Super TT – Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton, GA
4. May 22: Texas Half-Mile – Texas Motor Speedway, Fort Worth, TX
5. May 29: Chicago Half-Mile – Dirt Oval Route 66, Joliet, IL
6. June 18: OKC Mile I – Remington Park, Oklahoma City, OK
7. June 19: OKC Mile II – Remington Park, Oklahoma City, OK
8. June 26: Lima Half-Mile – Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima, OH
9. July 17: DuQuoin Mile – DuQuoin Fairgrounds, DuQuoin, IL
10. July 24: Port Royal Half-Mile – Port Royal Speedway, Port Royal, PA
11. August 14: New York Short Track – Weedsport Speedway, Weedsport, NY
12. August 21: Peoria TT – Peoria Motorcycle Club, Peoria, IL
13. September 4: Springfield Mile I – Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
14. September 5: Springfield Mile II – Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
15. September TBD: TBA Doubleheader I, California
16. September TBD: TBA Doubleheader II, California
17. October 8: Charlotte Half-Mile – Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, NC

News Briefs

 

The Italian motorcycle market was down by 'just' -6.33% (90,070 units sold) for the period January to November 2020, with recovery continuing after a dismal first five months of the year. November saw growth of +41.41% compared to last year. Adding in mopeds and scooters, the total of all PTW sales there for the period was down by -6.58% at 210,981 units in total. The top selling motorcycles were the Benelli TRK 502/X, the BMW R 1250 GS and Honda's Africa Twin.

The UK motorcycle market was down by -6.68% (89,497 units sold) for the period January to November 2020 as the 'second wave' of COVID-19 started to affect showroom traffic and general economic activity there. The UK motorcycle industry trade association (MCIA) says that as of 2019 there were 1.27 million motorcycles in use there in total.

H-D claimed 6th place in market share terms in Germany at a modestly increased 8.35% for the period January to October 2020 with 9,855 units sold. Its best sellers were the Street Bob in 31st place (1,027 units sold so far in 2020), the XK 100 X (997 units sold YTD), and the Sport Glide (697 units). Indian Motorcycle was in 12th spot with a best so far market share of 1.48% (1,714 units sold YTD).

The German motorcycle market continues to recover strongly and was +8.83% in new motorcycle registration terms (117,979 units) for the January to October period and +23.37% in total PTW terms (including mopeds, scooters etc - 94,950 units sold YTD). BMW remains top dog in its home market with a 20.80% market share.

H-D was in 8th spot in market share terms for new motorcycle registrations in Austria for the January to September period - 703 units sold for a 5% share. Indian Motorcycle was in 13th spot with 138 units sold YTD for a 1% share. Not surprisingly KTM is market share leader in its home market. The Austrian market was essentially flat for the first nine months of 2020 at -0.42% (13,333 units sold).


The battle lines for the middle ground continue to be drawn up - Triumph's new Trident 660 is described by MCN in the UK as "triple treat," achieving that much sought after "balance between performance and usability" that is becoming the price-point holy grail as the back-to-basics "motorcycles of character" ethos matures.

For 2021, Ducati has abandoned the primary design signature that informs thirty years of Monster worship with the signature trellis style frame jettisoned in favor of a lightweight stressed member aluminum monocoque, similar to the one developed for the Panigale. Also gone is the equally emblematic 90-degree 821 cc engine in exchange for an updated Euro 5 version of the higher hp 937 cc Testastretta 11-degree engine.

The new incarnation of Norton Motorcycles (TVS, India owned) is inviting official 'registrations of interest' for two versions of the long-planned 84 bhp and 650 cc parallel twins - the Atlas Nomad and Atlas Ranger - modern iterations of two old Norton model names that were first announced by 'Old Norton' in 2018. In other news, 'New Norton' is about to abandon its idiosyncratic Castle Donington, England home for a new facility at Solihull, Birmingham, England - less than ten miles from where 'Pa' Norton started it all in 1902.

Legendary wheel maker Roberto Marchesini passed away in Italy after a long illness. The former Campagnolo man started his own business as an aluminum and magnesium foundry in 1988 with his lightweight, high-strength magnesium wheels famously being adopted first by Ducati, then by dozens of race teams, privateers and OEMs worldwide. The company he founded became part of the Brembo Group in 2000.

Backed by Triumph Motorcycles, The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride was a solo riding effort in September 2020, but still managed to raise over € 2m for charitable causes; over € 20m has been raised since 2012. For 2021 the date has been brought forward from its usual end of September date and will now be staged in May each year - Sunday, May 23 in 2021.


Sources: AMD, IDN, FT, Reuters, PSB, MPN, B&B, BDN, MCN, AP, Bloomberg, MSNW, Electrek, electricmotorcycles.news, RideApart.com, Motor1.com

Biker's Choice

Manual Primary Chain Tensioner

This manual primary chain tensioner (and replacement shoe) is newly available from Biker's Choice and allows manual adjustment of the primary chain for performance use. 

It also helps prevent premature engine and transmission bearing failure by allowing proper chain tension of 5/8" - 7/8" when cold, and is said to be "perfect for use with the 34-tooth compensator eliminator - just remove the outer primary cover to check and adjust."
It replaces the factory automatic primary chain adjuster on 2006-17 Dyna, 2007-17 Softail, 2007-2016 Touring and 2009-2016 Trike models. Due to the high-performance nature of this product, some increased primary chain noise may be experienced.

TUCKER POWERSPORTS
www.tucker.com
www.bikerschoice.com

Feuling Parts

Feuling Race Series 472 Camchest Kit

Oceanside, California based Feuling Parts' complete camchest kits "include all the necessary components from top to bottom of the camchest, conveniently packaged under one part," says Drag Specialties.
"These combination kits not only ensure each individual part is designed to work and function together, but to do so in total harmony - they take the guesswork out of the ordering process and provide the engine builder maximum reliability, peak performance and the coolest engine/oil temperatures obtainable".

These complete camchest kits include Feuling high volume oil pump, high flow camplate, 472 Reaper Series camshafts, hydraulic roller lifters, fixed length pushrods, Timken/Koyo cam bearings, rocker arm studs/nuts, gaskets, O-rings, ARP cam/crank fasteners, washers, moly paste and Loctite.
Race Series kits include a Race Series oiling system, Race Series lifters, high flow billet 7075 aluminum camplate and billet 7075 aluminum oil pump, which is 50% harder and stronger than the factory pump, holding tighter tolerances under temperature and deeper scavenge kidneys over Feuling's HP+ oil pump (deeper scavenge kidney ports over the HP+ series for even more scavenge flow volume).
Feuling Race Series hydraulic lifters have a full .200" of total travel designed with a slower bleed-down rate to handle heavy valve spring pressures, increase engine rpm before valve float and feature increased roller clearance for steep ramped camshafts and clearance for the M-8 front exhaust camshaft lobe flange.
The kits deliver +30% more pressure gear volume, +53% more scavenge gear volume and +27% more pressure and scavenge gear volume over stock in M-8 twin-cooled motors.
They deliver +2% more scavenge volume with port sizing, matched passages and holes to the engine case for M-8 twin-cooled motors and M-8 oil-cooled motors with +68% more oil volume to the crankshaft and connecting rod bearing and 15-25/15-30 degrees cooler engine temperatures for M-8 twin-cooled motors and M-8 oil-cooled motors (plus 10-30 more psi of oil pressure).
The increased oil pressure, scavenge volume and engine oil flow mean a quieter and smoother engine operation, reduced wet sumping, blowby and oily air cleaners - magnets in the oil pump help protect gears and pressure relief valve.
Feuling says that test results show +2 hp gain and 2 ft/lbs of TQ gain to the rear wheel on M-8 models and a -50% reduction of engine sump oil level.

DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com
www.feulingparts.com

Le Pera

'Silhouette' Deluxe Solo for Dyna

New from legendary Californian custom seats specialist Le Pera, the 'Silhouette' Deluxe Solo for 2006 - 2017 Dynas "offers the same flowing lines as our classic 'Silhouette' but with a bit more Cush for your customer's Tush!"

It has a 12.5" wide driver seating area and is available with or without pillion. Available options include Biker Gel, leather seating and full leather.

Still handcrafting all its seats at the company's North Hollywood, California headquarters after more than 45 years as the market's design leader, all Le Pera seats feature a powder-coated steel base plate, a specially poured high density "Marathon" molded foam foundation and double-stitched, handcrafted cover with bonded polyester thread for durability.

LE PERA ENTERPRISES
www.lepera.com

Kraus Motor Co

Kraus Floorboard Options, M-8 Softail Digital Gauge Mount

New products from St George, Utah based Kraus Motor Co include two versions of 'The One' ERG floorboards - full size (seen here) and mini.
Designed for "aggressive comfort," they are adjustable 1" forward and to the rear so the rider can get his or her legs and feet in the correct position, depending on body and riding style. In their rear position, the rider "gets the feel of mid-controls, but still retains the comfort of a full size board."

Made in lightweight aluminum, the boards have replaceable slippery Delrin sliders on the outermost edge, "so you won't destroy your boards on the tarmac when you're digging deep in the corners." Available in machine black anodized or polished finishes for all Harley Bagger models 1982 to 2020 and Softail models 1986 to 2017 with factory floorboard mounts, they are 4.75" wide x 12" long x 1.75" thick.
Kraus ERG mini floorboards are 3.5" wide x 6" long x 1" high. Available for models with H-D male mount footpeg supports and passenger location on Bagger models, Softail up to 2017, Dyna, FXR and Sportsters.
Also seen here, this Kraus Softail digital gauge mount is a lightweight billet aluminum housing for the M-8 Softail digital gauge - the housing completely encloses the digital gauge and creates a clean finished look. They mount directly to the top of the Kraus isolated riser top cap or onto the riser legs with the company's T-Bar and riser clamp. 

 

Available in machine black anodized or polished finishes for Softail models 2018 and up with factory digital gauge - Standard, Street Bob, FXDR and Breakout - and all Harley Softail models 2018 and up with the H-D digital gauge.

KRAUS MOTOR CO
www.krausmotorco.com

W&W Cycles

Bates Baja Tires

"Gravel, rocks and roadkill – here's an awesome tire knowing no fear," say those aficionados of righteous retro at W&W Cycles.
Described as a "family of scrambler tires right on the tracks of the legendary Goodyear Grasshopper, capable of doing it all," W&W says they offer "ample grip on the road with a tread pattern that will get you out of the deepest ruts off the road.

"The Bates Baja tires are the product of Bates' long experience on diverse gravel, dirt and mud pistas, highways and Autobahns on several continents. For continuous quality control, we use them on our daily rides.
"We're having these low profile section tires produced to the highest technical standards for newer bikes. The available wheel sizes can be freely combined. Certified by the German TÜV for speeds up to 190 kph, so you can legally 'scramblerize' your 1200 Sportster or Softail or any other scrambler project, late model or otherwise, that needs to be off-road capable and on-road durable - these Bates Baja tires can handle it all."
Available in the United States through Lowbrow Customs, Brunswick, Ohio.

W&W CYCLES AG
www.wwag.com
www.lowbrowcustoms.com

R&R Cycles

R&R Cycles - M-8 Cylinder/Piston Kits

"They say there is no substitute for cubic inches," says Reggie Ronzello of Manchester, New Hampshire based R&R Cycles fame, "and if you agree, then our new kit is just what you need."
This R&R Cycles kit means that the stock 107 inch M-8 can be "pumped up to 117 or 124 cubic inches and the bigger 114 inch M-8s can be massaged to either 120 or 128 cubic inches." 

Each R&R kit includes CP forged pistons with piston pins and rings and Cometic head and base gaskets. Available in black and black granite finishes, "the new aluminum cylinders come to you bored and honed to match the pistons (raw, unsized cylinders also available).
For those who want more than just an increase in cubic inches, R&R also offers a Stage II performance package including ported heads (requires your heads as a core), an aftermarket camshaft and additional necessary gaskets.

 

Reggie Ronzello Jr. - "the bigger 114 inch M-8s can be massaged to either 120 or 128 cubic inches."

"With our kits you can build a Softail or Bagger with a modest boost in power, or combine those extra cubes with a more aggressive cam and ported heads for a motor with torque and horsepower numbers that were never so easy to achieve. It all starts with an R&R big bore kit," says Reggie.

R&R CYCLES
www.rrcycles.com

Harley-Davidson

Harley MY21 - Playing it Safe with Chrome, Paint, Audio, Accessories; Some Models Dropped, Nothing New at This Stage

In what is a massive outbreak of playing it so safe it is taking a huge risk, Harley-Davidson's 2021 Global New Model Year announcement event was heavy on hyperbole and light on initiative - despite what one assumes was its best efforts, inspirational, motivational and aspirational it wasn't.
Recycling 1980s style corporate promo video values and techniques, the presentation was entirely devoid of the kind of authenticity that new generations of consumers live for. The 'Grand Unveil' was basically just a 60 minute promo video that was clearly thrown together in November and December last year - not the kind of interactive live experience that contemporary marketing techniques require.

Which was probably just as well, because the Harley site serving the film had crashed, coming to life on a classic 'Just in Time Inventory' basis.
Carefully trying to annotate the number of times chrome, paint and audio were mentioned, it was simply impossible to keep up with the diet of lightweight, superficial cliches - in fact it is unclear if the word 'engineering' actually got used at all. If it did, then it was only a handful of times at best, and in connection with design, sound and finish, not in connection with actual, you know, making metal things.
The use of the English language deployed was grammatically poor in several places, with employees who look scared to death reading from scripts that had come straight out of the school of writing by people who have no idea what they are writing about - not the kind of scripts that one would expect from an institution with nearly 120 years of motorcycle industry institutional knowledge and empathy.
 

"devoid of authenticity"
 

The highlights of the announcement (if they can be called that) centered on the "new" Softail Street Bob 114, though actually the only thing that does appear to be really new about it is the upgrade from the 107" M-8 it should never have been on before.
In fact, the Street Bob aside, the elevation up the engine capacity ladder is virtually non-existent - and Harley still appears to think that leaving the burgeoning middleweight market unserved is still a smart play.
Okay, the new 1250 cc engine that will be in the Pan America will debut towards the end of February, and it is known that there are 750 and 950 versions of it 'in-play' at various stages of gestation, but the Sportster line-up is down one model (the 1200 cc Roadster), leaving the Forty Eight and 883 and 1200 cc iterations of the Iron - and by all reports these may only survive for one more year and have already been dropped in Europe - Harley has not been prepared to invest in making the existing XL engines Euro 5 (or BS6/India) compliant.
The other so-called big news is the audio upgrade with Rockford Fosgate now the branded Tier 1 audio vendor of choice and yes, the over-bloated number of Softails has also been trimmed with three 114" models dropped - the Low Rider (the Low Rider S is still in production), the FXDR and the Softail Deluxe. The less than stellar Street and Street Rod 750 have also gone, just leaving the Street 500 cc as a learner platform.
There are still three CVO models at the top of the range, and a CVO and two other Trikes, but when CEO Jochen Zeitz talked about cutting the model range offer by 30% or more, it had been widely expected that there would be fewer still Softails, fewer (not very many) 'Specials' and there certainly need to be fewer than the (still) nine Tourer options - three of which are described as 'Hot Rod Baggers'.
With the Pan America coming to market in a few weeks, it is to be hoped that there will be more mid-cycle initiatives to build some genuine momentum and excitement if the kind of dealerships and dealer groups that Harley is hanging its hat on are to prosper.
Time is short for The Motor Company, and failing to act convincingly and quickly could be a big mistake. In a chronic failure to "speak millennial", Harley remains steadfastly tone deaf. It continues to demonstrate that it wouldn't know an edge if it fell off one.

H-D Street Bob 114

2021 H-D Street Bob 114 "Adds Gritty Performance to Cruiser Line-Up"

Harley is describing its 2021 Softail range as motorcycles that "combine modern power and technology with authentic American styling to offer a pure riding experience."
The headline news in Softail terms centers as much on the models that are not now in the line-up as on those that are - at least in terms of anything new for dealers to be able to raise pulses with. It has been a necessary trimming, but one that maybe hasn't gone deep enough yet.

Street Bob 114

The two 'hero' initiatives are the Street Bob receiving a displacement upgrade with the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine ("in addition to its stripped-down styling and no-nonsense performance") and, entering its 31st year, "the 2021 Fat Boy 114 kicks sand in the face of its historically tamped down, mean streets, big and bad positioning with a "brilliant chrome" bling restyling.
"With its steamroller stance, the Fat Boy remains one of the most physically imposing motorcycles in the Harley-Davidson portfolio. Refreshed styling for 2021 brightens its look as brilliant chrome replaces the satin chrome finish on the powertrain and exhaust, the front end, the rear fender struts and the console.
"The Harley-Davidson Softail chassis offers the look of a classic hardtail frame but is underpinned by modern [monoshock] suspension for a smooth ride and outstanding handling." All the Softails feature the Showa dual bending valve front suspension.
"The chassis design is optimized to reduce weight without sacrificing stiffness. The rigid-mounted [twin counter-balancer] Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine further stiffens the entire chassis and contributes to a platform that delivers strong acceleration and responsive handling and braking performance."
Eight Softail models "range in style from classic to custom to gritty, and each is ready to roll the boulevard or chase backroad adventure."
There are four 114" Softails, one (the Heritage Classic) that is available with either the 107 or 114" M-8 and three with 107 inchers only - the Standard, the Slim and the euro-centric Sport Glide.

Fat Boy 114

Being heavily hyped by Harley as a new model (!), the "NEW" Street Bob 114 is described as a "tough looking bike that was intended to be ridden hard. The lightest-weight Softail model equipped with a Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, the Street Bob 114 motorcycle is a quick and nimble ride with power to spare - 9 percent quicker 0-to-60 mph and 13 percent quicker 60-to-80 mph in fifth gear than the previous Street Bob."

The additional 2021 Softails:
Standard: "The essential Harley-Davidson cruiser experience: a lean Bobber profile steeped in attitude; classic Vivid Black paint highlighted with gleaming chrome and polished finishes; the most-attainable entry point to Harley-Davidson Big Twin ownership."
Low Rider S: "High bars and horsepower define this performance-first cruiser; premium suspension components are tuned for aggressive riding stoked by the power of the M-8 114 engine; styling cues inspired by the coastal build scene."
Slim: "A stripped-down, low-slung Bobber brings old school styling into the modern era; black steel laced wheels, tuck-and-roll seat cover, Hollywood handlebar, bobbed fenders."
Sport Glide: "Power, performance and versatility; an aggressive factory-custom cruiser outfitted with a detachable fairing and rigid clamshell saddlebags; ideally suited for light touring, cruising or commuting."
Fat Bob 114: "A burly street-eating muscle machine; inverted race-style forks, dual front disc brakes, 2-1-2 performance exhaust, M-8 114 power; a cruiser that thinks it’s a sport bike."
Heritage Classic: "All-American vintage style with modern performance; locking vinyl-covered saddlebags, detachable windscreen, chrome steel laced wheels and front hub covers; choice of M-8 107 engine with chrome styling or 114 with dark styling."
The Low Rider, Deluxe and FXDR 114 models will not be produced for 2021; the Breakout 114 will be available only in some international markets.

H-D Hot Rod Baggers

New Style Choices and Features for H-D Hot Rod Baggers

A trio of Hot Rod Baggers "with fresh swagger and new features is part of the collection of special motorcycles for 2021. With a slammed stance and muscular M-8 114 power, the  Road King Special, Road Glide Special and Street Glide Special models combine commanding street presence with the long-haul capabilities of the H-D Touring chassis. These bikes are designed to rule the boulevard on Friday night and run for the border at daybreak."

Road Glide Special

For 2021, the Street Glide Special and Road Glide Special models are offered with new two-tone paint options, and with a choice of a blacked-out or bright chrome styling treatments, "giving the customer a choice of a look that’s dark and sinister, or brilliant and more traditional." All Special models are now equipped with the high-performance ventilator air cleaner with a washable filter element and a new low-profile engine guard.
Each Special model is powered by the 10.5:1 compression ratio 114 inch (1,868 cc) M-8. In the Touring chassis, the rubber-mounted and counter-balanced engine "delivers inspiring performance and classic Harley look-sound-feel. Engine features include four-valve cylinder heads, dual spark plugs, single camshaft (to reduce mechanical noise), advanced cylinder head design and dual knock sensors."
The Tourers feature Harley's 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, but the troublesome hydraulic clutch has been dropped in favor of a traditional cable design - Harley has had no end of problems and recalls with the hydraulic clutch. The Tourers also use the Showa dual bending valve internal technology front suspension "for linear damping performance and a smooth ride"; emulsion technology rear shocks "are calibrated for touring and feature a single-knob pre-load adjustment that does not require tools or maintenance."
The lowered rear suspension gives the Special models a "slammed stance" and Prodigy cast-aluminum wheels (19-inch front, 18-inch rear) are exclusive to Special models; the Specials have standard reflex linked Brembo brakes with ABS.

CVO Models

CVO Models "Combine Exclusive Performance, Style and Luxury"

With two models giving a debut to new Harley-Davidson Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate, Harley's Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) models "represent the pinnacle of Harley style and design. 

CVO Limited

"Created for the most discerning customers [aka the ones with the deepest pockets], the 2021 CVO models offer show-stopping finishes, advanced technology, exclusive components and attention to detail that borders on obsessive, engineered and assembled to factory-quality standards and backed by the Harley-Davidson limited warranty.
"The M-8 117 powertrain - the most displacement and power offered in a motorcycle straight from the Harley-Davidson factory - is exclusive to four limited-production, premium CVO models - the CVO Limited, CVO Street Glide, the CVO Road Glide and CVO Tri Glide Trike.
"Each 2021 CVO model features new paint and graphics. The CVO Road Glide and CVO Street Glide models introduce high-fidelity Stage II Harley-Davidson Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate.
"Harley-Davidson and Rockford Fosgate have worked together to create all-new components that produce legendary sound - an advanced, high-performance audio system that pushes the bounds of technology, featuring speakers and amplifiers designed specifically for Harley. H-D Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate with Stage II tri-axial speakers is the exclusive featured audio system for the 2021 CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models."

H-D LiveWire, Street 500 & Sportsters

LiveWire
 

The rumors are that unless there is a big uptick in demand or a good strategic reason to keep it in production, 2021 may well be the last year for "Project LiveWire". Maybe the fact that the MY 2021 text for the LiveWire is the 2019 launch press release tells its own story!


Street 500
 

The 500 cc Street is the only one of the three models to remain in production - mostly as a Harley-Davidson rider training platform; both the 750 cc Street models are history.


Sportsters
 

Canned for Europe altogether (for reasons of Euro 5 emissions), the Sportster range is down to three models - the Iron 883 and 1200 and, seen here, the 1200 cc Forty Eight - and is also touted as likely on the chopping block for 2022 or 2023 latest. Reports of the imminent demise of the venerable model have been doing the rounds ever since Harley celebrated the 60th anniversary of the 1957 introduction of the XL ("Extra Light") three years ago. Those rumors are gathering pace now, though it looks like the remaining three iterations are a strictly time limited offer.

Electra Glide Standard

Electra Glide Standard

There is an argument to be said in favor of those who think that Harley shouldn't be continuing with the M-8 107" on Touring platform models - for 2021 there appear to be four of them, with the Electra Glide Standard as an "entry level" Tourer, if there can be said to be such a thing. While Harley continues in its "hunker down" conservative approach to re-establishing a survival platform from which to build out, that policy is not likely to change any time soon - and to be fair, survival is the worthiest of business objectives, the pathway to growth described as the “Dressed down Dresser” that provides a "raw, fundamental riding experience inspired by Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring roots," the Electra Glide Standard is "designed for the traditional touring customer, for the rider seeking through riding to disconnect from all the noise of the day-to-day - no screens, simply a motorcycle that provides and heightens the experience of the journey. This fundamental experience is a key element in the design and engineering of the Electra Glide Standard."

FLRT Freewheeler

FLRT Freewheeler

Along with the CVO TriGlide and the TriGlide Ultra, the 114 inch Freewheeler with easily adjustable rear suspension and the Showa dual bending valve 49 mm front forks makes it a three-Trike offer from Harley again for the year ahead - and if there can be said to be such a thing, is the "Entry Level" three-wheeler. Enhancements for 2021 include cornering-enhanced reflex linked brakes with ABS and traction control. Features include bobtail style fenders, slash-cut pipes, 12-inch mini apes, Enforcer aluminum wheels and enough cargo space to hold two full-face helmets plus extra gear.

S&S Cycle

Paul Langley to Depart S&S Cycle Spring 2021


Innovative president Paul Langley is to leave Viola, Wisconsin based S&S Cycle after six years of successful service in which he has had a huge impact on the fortunes of the company and the direction that the industry itself is taking.
"This company has been my #1 life priority and I have dedicated most of my waking hours to its success," said Langley. 

Credited with bringing Indian Motorcycle back into Flat Track racing as well as winning four championships, Paul has been a key driver for reviving the company's dominance in multiple racing efforts.
"During Paul's tenure, the company has seen strong growth, including the addition of an exhaust manufacturing facility, an industry first focus on emissions compliant performance parts and a product diversification that now includes parts for Indian and Royal Enfield machines," stated S&S Chairman of the Board Mark Platt.
Langley joined S&S Cycle in 2015 and brought with him decades of experience in both the high- performance parts space as well as multiple racing disciplines. "My family has been incredibly supportive of my non-stop work life and it's now time to give back to them. It saddens me to leave the company, but I'm at a point in my life where I need to focus on their priorities first," stated Langley.
Working with top level recruiters, S&S says it plans to consider internal as well as external candidates and will immediately begin looking for a successor. "I would like to thank all of the S&S team for their commitment and I feel the company will continue on the road to success for many decades to come," Paul said.

Polaris Industries

Polaris Appoints Michael Speetzen as Interim CEO

Following the departure of long-time Chairman and CEO Scott Wine to pastures new, Polaris Industries has played it safe initially by appointing Executive VP and CFO Michael Speetzen to serve as interim Chief Executive Officer, with John Wiehoff, the company's Lead Independent Director, as Chair of the Board.
Additionally, Bob Mack, Polaris' senior VP of Corporate Development and Strategy and president of their Global Adjacent Markets and Boats divisions, appointed interim Chief Financial Officer.
"We appreciate Mike and Bob taking on these expanded roles while we progress our CEO search," said Wiehoff. "Mike and Bob have made significant contributions to Polaris' success during their respective tenures.

Michael Speetzen

"In addition to leading the company's finance organization and expertly managing the liquidity of Polaris during this global pandemic, Mike has helped shape and drive key growth initiatives, including Polaris' digital transformation and productivity enhancements. Bob's operational accomplishments and financial experience leading Polaris' M&A and corporate development strategy are well suited to advance Polaris' strong financial foundation. We are confident that Mike and Bob, and the deep understanding they bring of both the business and the industry, will enable a seamless transition during this interim period."
"I have witnessed time and again the Polaris team's passion and commitment to delivering for all of our stakeholders," said Speetzen. "I am excited to lead the continued execution of our strategy and accelerate the positive momentum underway across the organization."
Speetzen was hired to Polaris by Scott Wine in August 2015 as Executive Vice President, Finance and CFO. Prior roles included Sr VP and CFO of Xylem, Inc. (since 2011, when the company was formed from the spin-off of the water businesses of ITT Corporation); Executive VP and CFO for the StandardAero Company (owned by the private equity firm Dubai Aerospace Enterprise) and positions in the finance functions at Honeywell and General Electric. 

Bob Mack

Mack joined Polaris in April 2016 from Ingersoll Rand. Wiehoff has served as a member of the Polaris Board of Directors since 2007 and as Lead Independent Director since 2013 and serves as the Chair of the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee. Wiehoff also served as Chairman of the Board and CEO for logistics specialist C.H. Robinson (Eden Prairie, Minnesota), retiring in May 2020 and May 2019; prior roles include at Chicago based former 'Big Five' accounting firm Arthur Andersen LLP. Wiehoff also serves on the Board of Directors of industrial filter business Donaldson Company, Inc and U.S. Bancorp.

AFT SuperTwins

H-D to Back Latus/Rispoli for AFT SuperTwins Effort

In race team terms, the first outcome from Harley's decision to part company with Vance & Hines (in favor of direct factory support for dealership AFT and other race endeavors) comes in the shape of confirmation that Gladstone, Oregon based Latus Motors H-D and James Rispoli will follow-up their 2020 Production Twins Championship win by campaigning with factory backing in the senior AFT SuperTwins class in 2021.

"During this past season James showed grit, determination and skill in winning the AFT Production Twins Championship," said George Latus.
"Additionally, he provides great rider feedback, which will be extremely helpful as we move up to the ultra-competitive AFT SuperTwins class. The entire team is really excited to further develop the Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R. James is a big part of our program and we're pleased to have him return as our rider for the 2021 season." 

During his storybook 2020 season, Rispoli seemed in a class of his own at times as he dominated the Production Twins class with a five-race win streak and total of seven victories. "His lap times showed him to be consistently performing at a premier-class level." Based on their best laps in their respective Main Events, "The Rocket" proved to be the fastest H-D-mounted racer in any class in six of the season's final nine races.
"I am very excited to continue with Latus Motors Racing for 2021," said Rispoli. "The team is like a family to me, I am pumped that everyone is staying on board for this year. We know racing in AFT SuperTwins is going to be a huge challenge, but I feel like we can be competitive if we keep on the gas. I am very excited to get to work."

www.americanflattrack.com

Tucker Powersports

Tucker Dealer Training and 2021 Road Show Stops

Tucker Powersports has launched what it describes as a "major dealer training initiative" as part of its Road Show program.
The free online dealer training culminates in the series of live Road Show events at major racing venues around the country - the program runs through May 2021.
"The key to a retailer's success is great customer experiences delivered by knowledgeable dealership staff," said Marc McAllister, Tucker President and CEO. "The Tucker Road Show is based on supporting dealers and their staff so that they can represent great products from dozens of the manufacturers we work with."
Tucker dealers are given free access to online training via Tucker U, a custom-designed training portal, which features interactive training programs addressing all types of powersports products. 

Dealership staff members earn points for completing levels of training, which translate into preferred pricing programs for their dealership and ultimately an invitation to participate in one of the four Tucker Road Show tour stops.
"Tucker's Road Show events are an opportunity to take a deep dive into the newest and coolest products in the industry," said Brad Turner, Tucker's VP of Sales. "All of the industry's biggest companies have committed to participating in the four events with displays and experts who can speak to their product's features and consumer benefits. We'll also include lots of opportunities for socializing with other dealers and chances to experience NASCAR speeds on the paved racetracks."
The company's events will take place at Texas Motor Speedway (March), Las Vegas Motor Speedway (April - previously slated for February), Charlotte Motor Speedway (April) and Kentucky Speedway (May). Each event takes place in the speedway’s infield in both open garages and outdoor displays. Product manufacturers will showcase their latest products and dealers will be able to order with special pricing, based on the points earned through online training.
Tucker and participating vendors will encourage COVID safety and will operate within each region’s prevailing safety protocols.
One of the largest display areas will be the Tucker house brands, which are created and distributed exclusively by Tucker for their dealer network. The product range includes parts, accessories and consumables for virtually every on-road and off-road motorcycle, 4x4 and UTV.  
Tucker U is available to dealers immediately and is set up to log dealer training points for the program.

Biltwell

The Biltwell Motorcycle Luggage Backstory - "By Riders, For Riders"

Biltwell was one of, if not the first, to bring tactical-style MOLLE-equipped motorcycle gear to market with their universal-fit EXFIL-7 back in 2014. "I came back from Iraq in '05 and used the machine gun ammo pouches from my gear to hold stuff on my bikes for years," says co-founder Bill Bryant.
"Those pouches were way tougher and more universal than anything on the market, but not really meant for motorcycles. So, we designed the EXFIL-7 to be a moto-specific, but universally mounted utility bag." 

The EXFIL-65 is Biltwell's latest offering - 100% waterproof and just the right size for nearly any adventure, it straps on to a sissy bar or luggage rack and offers a myriad of tie-down and attachment points.

Now, nearly a decade after first launching it, Biltwell's EXFIL line of motorcycle luggage has expanded to nine different bags for a wide variety of 'missions'.
Not ones to sit back and design gear from behind their desks, Bryant and crew log plenty of miles, and not just riding to the local bar either. This year the Biltwell gang was slated to ride old bikes to the top of the world - Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, but COVID-19 had other plans and the adventure had to be postponed.
Not ones to give up easily, a "back-up plan" was initiated. Remote camping through Utah, Idaho, Montana, Washington and Oregon meant social distancing was easy to do and the group used the opportunity to shakedown final prototypes of the new EXFIL-65 bag, fine-tune future design modifications on the other gear and maybe sneak in just a little bit of fun and call it work.

Putting their money where their mouth is - the Biltwell crew puts down many adventurous miles each year in search of good times and thoughtful product designs. It ain't bad work if you can get it!

From the hugely successful EXFIL-80 sissy bar bag to the thoughtfully designed EXFIL-11 tank bag, all of the gear is meant to be universal fit.
This makes it particularly easy for dealers to stock and simple for riders to buy and install. "There's plenty of traditional, complicated and ugly luggage out there for baggers and touring bikes," says Bryant, "but we wanted something much more rugged that worked on any motorcycle and was built for the way our customers ride."
The numerical naming convention? Simple. "Conventional luggage is measured in liters. That's an odd measurement that doesn't connect with our customers." So, the model names are derived by determining how many 12 ounce beer cans can fit in each one. Something nearly every Biltwell customer can identify with immediately - one more clever example of this company's empathy with the younger and more adventurous modern-day rider.

BILTWELL INC.
www.biltwellinc.com

Bagger Nation

Deep-Drawn 14-Gauge Steel Café Style Front Fender

Paul Yaffe's Phoenix, Arizona based operation has more information about its burgeoning Café style fender range for many Harley-Davidson models.
In the November edition, we gave a debut to the new 3-D formed, hand laid composite front fender - weighing in at just over 1 lb, it is a "super strong, laser straight" direct bolt-on for 1999 and up Touring models, performance Baggers, FL Softails, Dynas, FXRs and XLs.

All-new tooling has now been built for this steel front fender - tooling that allows the fender to be "deep-drawn" from one indestructible piece of 14-gauge steel, as with all of Bagger Nation steel fenders.  Each stamped fender is then precision laser-cut for perfect symmetry.  
"We've even drilled the mounting holes, so you won't have to touch a tool when you choose our fenders," says Paul. "No spinning, no welding, no seams or grooves that need to be body-worked. Each fender is meticulously coated, so you can rest assured your fender will arrive and remain corrosion-free.

"These fenders are perfect! Seriously, they are perfect - you can pull them right out of the box, scuff them, paint them, and mount them. No drilling or shaping of any kind is required. Painters will love these."
Each real steel 14-gauge fender includes satin CNC-machined billet spacers and all the needed hardware for installation. Easy to follow install instructions can be found in the support section of the Bagger Nation website.

PAUL YAFFE'S BAGGER NATION
www.baggernation.com