Brembo

Brembo announces acquisition of Öhlins Suspension

Leading Sweden based powersports industry suspension specialist Öhlins has been acquired by Brembo in a first major strategic buy into an 'adjacent' business sector for the Bergamo, Italy based global brakes products manufacturer and brand owner.

The deal is primarily being touted by Brembo as an automotive market play, with the October 11announcement saying that with this acquisition "Brembo expands its offerings for the automotive market."

Brembo stated that "this deal marks the largest acquisition in Brembo's history and further strengthens the Group's brand portfolio. Öhlins has a strong racing heritage and presence in major championships as a renowned supplier for MotoGP, Formula 1, Superbike, NASCAR, and others."

The deal (for a 100% stake in Öhlins Racing) was with US conglomerate Tenneco, which only acquired Öhlins in late 2018 from founder Kenth Öhlins some months after Tenneco's $5.4bn acquisition of Ferodo brake pads owner Federal Mogul earlier that year. Tenneco folded Öhlins into 'Driv' - a then newly formed division with Ferodo and other brands.

In turn Tenneco (described as a "portfolio company of funds") is managed by "affiliates" of New York based 'alternate' asset manager Apollo Global Management, Inc. Tenneco is also the owner of Monroe Shocks and former owner of Italian suspension manufacturer Marzocchi.

Matteo Tiraboschi, Brembo Executive Chairman said: "Öhlins is a strong fit for Brembo. It is a world-renowned brand, with a solid business and an unrivaled reputation - both on the racetrack and the road. 

"We welcome Öhlins to our Group as a great opportunity to expand our offerings for the automotive market. With this addition, we take another step forward in our strategy to provide integrated intelligent solutions to our customers, leveraging synergies across key technologies in the vehicle's corner."

Founded by Kenth Öhlin in in Upplands Väsby (Stockholm) in 1976, Öhlins Racing has a strong international footprint. It employs approximately 500 people across two production facilities and R&D centers located in Sweden and Thailand and four distribution and testing branches in the U.S., Germany, Thailand and Sweden.

In 1986 Kenth sold a majority stake in Öhlins to Yamaha, taking back 95% ownership from them in 2007. 

Öhlins Racing is projected to close 2024 with a turnover in the range of $144m, with an expected adjusted EBITDA margin between 21% and 22%. Brembo's purchase price put at $405m on a cash free/debt free basis. The deal is subject to the customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in early 2025.

The sale comes at a time when Tenneco is seeking to "streamline our business portfolio and strengthen our balance sheet" as it continues to "execute on our long-term vision."

Öhlins Racing CEO Tom Wittenschlaeger is quoted as saying: "As we join forces with Brembo, we are excited to unlock new growth opportunities and leverage our respective strengths and assets to drive innovation and deliver even greater value to our customers and employees. 

"Öhlins Racing is committed to developing the next generation of mechatronic suspension technology for both road and track. This innovation-driven approach will reinforce Brembo's mission to be a Solution Provider for future mobility."

The acquisition continues Brembo's investment in the motorcycle and motor racing area. In 2021 the Group acquired SBS Friction in Denmark and J.Juan in Spain. In February of this year, Brembo announced its entry into Thailand and also controls lightweight alloy wheel specialist Marchesini. 

Founded in 1961 in Italy, Brembo cites over 600 motorsport championship title wins in its history, presently employing 16,000 people across 15 countries, 32 production and business sites and 9 R&D centers.

The company's turnover was € 3,849 million in 2023. The two-wheeler business is said to be worth approximately 13% of total Brembo revenues. 

www.brembo.com

www.ohlins.com

LeMans NVP Product Expo Part 3

Making Milwaukee Great Again (part 3)

After many years at the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center "between the lakes" in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, LeMans finally completed a move for its summer NVP Product Expo to the newly refurbished and extended Baird Center in Milwaukee. Some two years in the planning, the move brought Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties' vendors, reps and dealers into an expanded space with no end of potential for future development.

Magnum Shielding: The Pittsford, NY based brake line & control cable specialists have many new offerings for 2024 that uniquely make them the "go-to" company for stock and alternate length applications. Its DOT compliant handlebar installation kits always make for accurately fitting and easy installations. Don't forget the company's 'Viking' handlebars which feature a unique patented internal radius for no-snag wiring harness routing. Seen here are father and sons team Scott, Reese and Cameron Hurwitz; www.magnumshielding.com 

Klock Werks: The Mitchell, South Dakota-based custom parts specialist has 'knocked it out of the park' with its Flare brand windshields programs and recent news included the addition of three new Flare windshields for 2023.5-2024 FLH models - the Tinted, Kolored and Ice Series. "Our initial offering is an 8” variation," said owner and founder Brian Klock, "with significant improvements made to the windshield blocks." The popular, patented Flare design is said to "significantly enhance riding stability and comfort. The 'hips' at the outer edge reroute the air to create downforce on the front of the bike, improving stability compared to a stock shield. The 'flip' at the top directs air upwards and back, delivering cleaner and less turbulent air for both the rider and passenger"; www.getklocked.com

Darkhorse: New to the Drag Specialties program for this season, Darkhorse are based in Wisconsin at Newton, WI. Recent additions include an innovative universal TIR toolkit - designed as an additional level and stage over and above the original run-out tool that Darkhorse developed for sprocket shafts only. "This toolkit covers every Harley Big Twin model dating back over 50 years. It measures total indicated runout on either the pinion shaft or the sprocket shaft with the unique capability to accurately determine what the actual run-out the compensator operates with on '07 and later models"; www.darkhorsemoco.com

Le Pera: Freshly minted Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Famers Christine and Bob Le Pera's still family-owned boutique custom seat and design and manufacturing 'palais d'excellence' marked its 50th anniversary a couple of years ago and continues to innovate. A recent addition is a new 'Cordova' pattern stitch, as showcased on its 'TailWhip' for the '23 - '24 CVO Touring models (including the 2023 and 2024 FLHXSE, FLTRXSE, FLHX, FLTRX and FLTRXSTSE). All Le Pera seat designs feature an optimized rider seating area, powder-coated steel, carpeted base plate and specially poured high-density Marathon molded foam foundation with double stitched, handcrafted BikerTec custom cover; www.lepera.com

Alloy Art: Robbie Lane's updated geometry Track/Race edition Bagger swingarm is a "lighter yet stronger design." A new 'captive' modular brake system features adjustable rotor diameter mount and choice of radial or small 2-piston mount option. "Designed for performance, efficiency and being pit/mechanic-friendly; www.alloyart.com

Hawg Halters: The Dahlonega, Georgia based manufacturer has had a busy year, with 25th anniversary celebrations and a slew of important new product introductions. From a new bagger axle adjuster design to an M-8 Touring triple tree package, the highlights have probably been its mid-control conversion kit and advanced, lightweight, high-strength custom performance bagger billet swingarm design. That was formally introduced at Daytona in March this year, by which time there were already some custom baggers built on the platform by several leading builders in competition around Bike Week; www.hawghalters.com

BS Battery: French specialist BS Battery is offering V-twin dealers five new Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries for large displacement touring model applications, providing up to 20% more Touring model power. Part of the company's SLA Max range, these latest generation factory-activated BGZ batteries are designed specifically for the high cranking amp requirements of Harleys, Indian Big Twins and other high-power Touring models. Features include built-in torque boosting copper nuts on the terminal to enhance conductivity by up to 50% more than a standard terminal and taller plates for more starting power; www.bs-battery.com

Kellermann

Kellermann Relaunch

Kellermann, the internationally recognized Aachen, Germany based manufacturer of innovative, high-quality motorcycle lighting products, has repositioned itself following the successful completion of its reorganization. A new investor has stepped in and will continue the business as Kellermann Lighting GmbH & Co. KG. "This secures the business and creates a solid basis for continuity and economic success.

"We are relieved and proud that we have been able to secure the future of our company and the jobs of our employees. This has only been possible thanks to the close cooperation of everyone involved. We would like to thank our team, our customers and our business partners for their patience and trust during this challenging time," said Marion Wölki, Head of Marketing and Sales. 

The relaunch is accompanied by a modernization and focus on Kellermann's proven strengths. "The company's extensive and unrivaled engineering expertise will in future form the basis for a passionate manufacturer of high-quality motorbike lighting. At the same time, Kellermann's proven set of values will continue to point the way.

"More than ever, Kellermann will listen to the wishes of its customers and offer products with which motorcyclists can specifically refine their bikes.

"The aim is to recognize trends more quickly, shape them into unique products with the legendary Kellermann touch and bring them to market. Aachen will remain the location of the manufacturing headquarters in the future and will continue to produce high-quality motorbike headlights with passionate employees."

Harley-Davidson

Pedrero Takes 'Maxi Trail' Class Win at Baja Espana Aragon 

Although Harley is struggling for sales of its Pan America ADV (aka 'Dual Sport') in the United States, in Europe it continues to win friends and influence races.

Last month, we reported on H-D Europe's certified off-road instructor Ralf Wiesenfeller's 'Big Raid Aventure' class win in the Bosnia Rally. This month, news of Dakar veteran Joan Pedrero's 'derring-do' on his almost stock 152 bhp RA1250 - taking the win in the 'Maxi Trail' category at the Baja Espana Aragon Rally in Spain in July, placing an excellent 21st out of 83 bikes in the overall standings. 

The legendary Baja Espana Aragon is admired and feared for its challenging tracks in equal measure and took place as an even more demanding edition this year. The 'Maxi Trail' category is for motorcycles over 600 cm3 displacement, which pitted the Pan America against many of the leading ADV models in the world.

Pedrero has had several opportunities to push his Pan America to the maximum this year - in the Africa Eco Race and the Bassella Enduro and Baja TT Dehesa Extremadura, both in Spain - securing another 'Maxi Trail' class win in the Dehesa Extremadur. 

Klock Werks

Challenger and Pursuit Kolor Flares

Mitchell, South Dakota based Klock Werks has announced the final addition to its easy-install Kolor Flare windshield collection for the 2020-2023 Indian Challenger and Pursuit models.

"With a growing number of Indian Challenger bikes on the road, we are thrilled to offer this complete lineup, representing our commitment to delivering a full range of stunning, performance-enhancing windshields for these popular motorcycles.

"The Kolor Flare windshield has revolutionized motorcycle accessories with its advanced aerodynamic design and striking color options. As the Indian Challenger models gain momentum, this expanded lineup allows riders to personalize their bikes at a cost-effective price, combining high performance with affordable customization and a smoother, more comfortable ride.

"Featuring Klock Werks' proprietary aerodynamic technology, this Kolor Flare windshield for Indian Challenger and Pursuit expertly manages airflow and reduces buffeting, resulting in enhanced stability and control. The final collection boasts an array of eye-catching colors.

"The creativity of Indian motorcycle owners is truly inspiring," said Brian Klock. "As they push the boundaries with custom fenders and unique paint jobs, the Kolor Series offers a vibrant way to enhance both stock and custom builds. It's the perfect finishing touch that adds a burst of personality and flair."

KLOCK WERKS

www.getklocked.com

S&S Cycle

MK-Series B Crankcases for M-8 Softail Models

On the basis that Baggers aren't the only M-8s pushing massive performance numbers, S&S Cycle has "gone the next stage" with its new B crankcases for Softails.

"Designed specifically for the big power that the lighter and more agile M-8 Softail chassis are being asked to handle, these Softail-specific B crankcases are engineered for the requirements of the latest generation of 'built' engines being installed into M-8 Softails.

"They allow for the installation of larger bore kits, they scrape more oil and offer improved reliability, all while still fitting into the stock Softail frame. These beefed-up cases feature a machined stock deck height, close-fitting oil scraper (stock is as cast) and large volume sump.

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com

Biltwell

Biltwell Moto Grips

Temecula, California based Biltwell says it "likes MX grips on more than just dirt bikes. These performance-oriented grips work great on Harleys, but most 'hogs' have 1" bars. Our new Moto Grips solve this problem since they are available in traditional size for 7/8" handlebars, but also in 1" diameter for most H-D-sized bars. 

"Ergonomic, durable and comfortable, the choice of two Kraton rubber compounds mean you can pick between soft (in grey) or medium (black), depending on your preference."

BILTWELL INC.

www.biltwellinc.com

Baker Drivetrain

Baker Drivetrain - Transmission Upgrades

Baker Drivetrain (Haslett, Michigan) is internationally recognized as a leading Harley transmissions engineer - one where reliable power, durability and manufacturing excellence come together.

Throughout the past couple of years, AMD has been publishing regular updates from the comprehensive Baker product range. Recently the Haslett, Michigan based manufacturer pulled together some of the best-selling premium components it offers for upgrading the primary for a smoother, more dependable ride.

"Our top-of-the-line primary components are designed to replace stock parts with innovative, high-performance upgrades. Proudly made in the USA, these components offer unmatched quality and reliability, ensuring you get the best performance out of your motorcycle."

34-Tooth Comp Sprocket

Engineered for enhanced durability and smoother operation, this kit reduces vibration and compensates for crankshaft variations, ensuring a more stable and enjoyable ride. "The kit offers a significant improvement over stock components, delivering superior reliability and longevity for dedicated riders."

Armored Attitude Adjuster

Designed to eliminate chain slack and prevent costly repairs, this robust adjuster ensures precise chain alignment and tension. "Built to withstand the toughest conditions, it delivers consistent and reliable performance, giving riders a smoother and more responsive ride."

Primary Rebuild Kit

One of the simplest ways to revitalize a motorcycle's performance is with the Baker primary rebuild kit. This comprehensive kit includes all the high-quality components needed to restore the primary to peak condition. "Each part is crafted to exceed factory specifications, ensuring enhanced reliability and longevity." 

Heavy Duty Primary Oil

Spectro Heavy Duty Primary Oil ensures optimal component performance and longevity for your motorcycle. Specifically formulated to handle the demands of heavy-duty primary drives, this high-quality oil provides superior lubrication, reducing wear and heat. 

BAKER DRIVETRAIN

www.bakerdrivetrain.com

Mission King Of The Baggers

Troy Herfoss Crowned King Of The Baggers

S&S/Indian Motorcycle's Troy Herfoss removed any drama from the title decider in the Mission King Of The Baggers finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park on September 29 as the Australian made the race his own, crossing the finish line as the 2024 Mission King Of The Baggers Champion.

Although he and Kyle Wyman were separated by just two points at the start of Sunday's season climax, the winner-take-all thriller between Herfoss and the Harley-Davidson Factory Racing's rider never materialized. Wyman got the start he wanted, led briefly, but was soon passed by Herfoss.

It didn't take Wyman long to realize he didn't have the same race pace as his Indian-mounted rival, and it ended up being a tough day at the office for the winningest rider in Mission King Of The Baggers history.

It didn't get any easier for Wyman when he was attacked from behind by RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson's Rocco Landers, with the 19-year-old eventually taking second from the New Yorker. Wyman held on for third, and he and Herfoss ended the season just 11 points apart.

For Herfoss it was his seventh win of the year and his 14th trip to the podium out of 18 races, and he adds the King Of The Baggers title to his three Australian Superbike Championships. He crossed the line 1.7 seconds ahead of Landers after fist pumping his way through the final set of corners.

Landers, in turn, was just .119 of a second ahead of a disappointed Wyman. Landers late-season burst of speed moved him all the way to fourth in the championship. He actually tied his teammate Hayden Gillim (fifth in the final race) in the points tally, but the spot went to Gillim via the tiebreaker.

Fourth place in Sunday's finale went to Herfoss' teammate Tyler O'Hara, just a few tenths ahead of Gillim.

LeMans NVP Product Expo Part 2

Making Milwaukee Great Again (part 2)

After many years at the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center "between the lakes" in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, LeMans finally completed a move for its summer NVP Product Expo to the newly refurbished and extended Baird Center in Milwaukee. Some two years in the planning, the move brought Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties' vendors, reps and dealers into an expanded space with no end of potential for future development.

TecMate: It's celebration time for TecMate as CEO/CTO Martin Human celebrates the 30th anniversary of the business this Fall. Recent product range news included TecMate's OptiMate 6 Select and OptiMate 7 Select, which come with a power supply (PS) mode that provides stable support power to the battery. This mode is pre-selectable prior to battery connection or can be selected whilst charging a battery. Originally it was meant to support the battery during troubleshooting or setting up of a motorcycle by the vehicle owner (e.g. electronic suspension, Bluetooth connectivity, sound system and the like). However, this power supply feature has also gained popularity in showrooms where new electronic/electrical features are demonstrated by dealers and at exhibitions where manufacturers demonstrate their electronic aftermarket products on a non-running motorcycle - such as LED lighting, a battery support on the showroom or expo floor, diagnostic tool or sound equipment. The powerful OptiMate 7 Select delivers up to 9 amp, at a voltage of 13.6V. Additional features include a charge mode selection of 14.4V or 14.7V (default at 20°C/68°F), which covers the charge requirement of any SLI/engine start Pb/lead-acid battery - from standard flooded batteries to high performance AGM; www.optimate1.com

Hogtunes: Recent new products fron the Canadian 'Wild Boar Audio' specialist include an award-winning new audio cut-in lid kit. "The market didn't need another cut-in lid kit," says Hogtunes CEO and life-long audio specialist 'Pez' Pesdirz, "but it does need a good one. Our new kit easily allows speakers to be added to your lids without the need for paint. Featuring our powerful new 6 x 9" lid speakers, carbon fiber woofer cones, titanium tweeters and studio-grade crossover parts result in an exceptionally clean sound and incredible bass response"; www.hogtunes.com

Feuling Parts: Harley may have dispensed with the cylinder head breather on the new design of VVT CVO heads, but, in all likelihood, it will be some time before its new engine tech makes its way into the mainstream Softail and Touring models (if at all). Enter Feuling Parts. Its new cylinder head breathers for M-8 engines are CNC-machined from billet 6061 aluminum with square surfaces, promoting excellent umbrella valve sealing; breather exit nipples with dual O-rings to promote better breather system sealing and properly sized breather inlets and location for optimum engine breathing. The unique design maximizes breather volume and allows for easy serviceability. The breather bodies have multiple chamfered drain ports on the inside floor; www.feulingparts.com

Andrews: The Mount Prospect, Illinois based performance cams specialist is sponsor of the Premier Bagger Racing class in this year's Bagger Racing League series again in 2024. Its choice of M-8 camshafts has been engineered specifically to meet the needs of Harley's four-valve heads. Performance gains with its 465B make it an "excellent choice for baggers and heavyweight bikes because of the low 1,200 to 5,000 rpm range" - producing 135 ft. lbs. torque and 116 hp in a 114 cu in engine; www.andrewsproducts.com

CruzTools: Seattle based CruzTOOLS' award-winning new AW36X narrow profile and highly ergonomic axle wrench design solves the age-old problem of accessing the rear axle nut without having to remove the exhaust on Harley-Davidson Touring models. "It's an essential tool for belt/chain adjustments or road-side tire repair. This innovative 36 mm axle wrench has a lightweight aluminum extension to boost leverage while keeping it compact for easy storage on the bike." Lightweight at only 7 oz, it is a high-strength steel wrench with chrome finish and aircraft-grade aluminum extension and finger-friendly rounded edges with non-slip finish for solid grip - ideal for Harley Baggers, Pan America and Indian FTR motorcycles; www.cruztools.com

NAMZ Custom Cycle Products: Never one to stand still, Jeff Zielinski brought his NAMZ Custom Cycle Products (NCCP) business into this world in 1999 - the year that Harley-Davidson made a decisive step further down the pathway to its fuel-injected future with the debut of the 88" Twin Cam. Jeff marked his first 25 years in business with the introduction of another new brand concept to sit alongside his Badlands, Letric and NAMZ branded products. A hard parts line called NOS or NAMZ Original Stuff (not to be confused with what everyone knows as new old stock (or Nitrous Oxide Systems!), NOS by NAMZ will be a small but passionately dedicated, personally curated line of "parts that have been overlooked for too long," says Jeff; www.namzccp.com

Dymag Wheels

British Dymag Wheels Brand Sold

The British Dymag Wheels brand, previously operated by CSA Performance subsidiary Dymag Racing, has been sold to Dortmund area German lightweight alloy wheel manufacturer Borbet GmbH.

Borbet has acquired the Dymag lightweight magnesium and carbon car and motorbike rims brand IP, product designs and technology, all patents and UK production facilities with the immediate integration of all Dymag Racing employees. 

The deal was executed via Dymag Technologies Limited (DTL), a newly established prepack acquisition vehicle, established expressly for the purposes of the sale. DTL will remain based at Chippenham in England and operate as an independent subsidiary of Borbet GmbH.

Renowned as a manufacturer of high-performance, high strength and lightweight race and street wheels for OEM, race team and aftermarket customers, Dymag is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year - it was founded in the UK in 1974.  Established as Dymag Racing UK Ltd. in 2009 and under the ownership and management of Chris Shelley as Chairman since 2011, Dymag has been funded by Puma Private Equity - with a recent funding round completed in 2020.

Chris Shelley, Director of Dymag Technologies Limited

As a DTL Director, Shelley is quoted as saying: “We are delighted to be part of the Borbet family. This partnership is a significant step for Dymag branded products and will position Dymag Technologies as a leading supplier to premium car manufacturers worldwide. We thank Puma Private Equity for its long-standing commitment and support in the development of Dymag branded world-class carbon wheels.”

Burkhard Plett, CEO of Borbet GmbH, said: "With the acquisition of the Dymag assets by Dymag Technologies Ltd., we are expanding our portfolio to include carbon and magnesium rims. This strategic decision underlines our aim to be a leader in all key wheel technologies for the automotive industry."

Dymag will continue to produce and supply BX-F wheels to aftermarket customers in the USA and Asia as well as Tier 1 wheel manufacturers worldwide. In addition, the company will continue to develop and market its successful motorbike wheels.

In May this year, AMD reported on the introduction of Dymag's 'Sector' race wheels, designed in collaboration with Roland Sands. Earlier this year, Dymag announced a partnership with MotoAmerica for the 2024 season, "reinforcing its commitment to the North American racing championship." Having been a longtime supporter of MotoAmerica in the 2023 season, Dymag-backed teams - including in Hooligans and Bagger Racing - achieved standout successes by fiercely competing on Dymag wheels, demonstrating the exceptional performance and reliability of the brand’s high-tech innovation."

Available in a range of colors, 'Sector' wheels are initially being offered in 17 x 3.5 front and 17 x 5.5/6.0 rear.

www.dymag.com 

Bajaj

Bajaj Reveals First CNG Motorcycle By Ben Purvis

While Japan's big four are working on projects to develop hydrogen-fueled motorcycles, India's Bajaj has turned to another gas and beaten them all to mass production with its CNG-fueled Freedom 125.

CNG, or compressed natural gas, is largely made of methane and doesn't offer the same environmental benefits as hydrogen. It's still a hydrocarbon fuel, so there are CO2 emissions, for example. But it's also a gas that's much easier to use with a relatively standard combustion engine that's been designed to run on petrol. It is also far easier to source and to store than hydrogen, while offering a reduction in emissions and lower running costs compared to conventional liquid fuel. Compared to petrol, CNG offers a 26.7% reduction in CO2 emissions and 43% less NOx.

Bajaj's Freedom 125 uses a fairly conventional 125 cc four-stroke single, which can run on petrol as well as CNG. Indeed, the bike has its own on-board reserve petrol tank, able to carry 2 liters of fuel, to act as a backup. In most of Europe, it's not easy to find CNG, but India is developing a robust network of stations, and a growing number of vehicles are turning to cheaper CNG instead of petrol as a result.

The Freedom's CNG is stored in a cylinder that carries 2 kg of the gas, compressed to 200 bar of pressure. The cylinder sits lengthwise in a purpose-designed steel trellis frame, running under the rider's seat, and the engine has been developed to fit underneath it with a near-horizontal cylinder. The engine airbox and the auxiliary petrol tank wrap around the front part of the gas cylinder. 

The seat is a little higher than rivals, thanks to the cylinder underneath it, but it's also longer than most, because there's no need for a large fuel tank in front. In India, that extra seat length is a selling point as despite laws banning more than two occupants, it's still not unusual to see more than that on a single bike, and it's common for children to sit in front of their parents.

While 2 kg of CNG might not sound like much, it's enough to give the Freedom 125 a 200 km range, and the 2-litre auxiliary petrol tank adds another 130 km of range, for a total of 330 km between them. 

Although there's also a growing market for electric bikes in India, the Freedom 125 has the advantage of a long range and rapid refueling. The CNG tank can be filled in around two minutes, using a nozzle at the front next to the petrol filler.

Arnott Suspension

Arnott - Motorcycle-Specific 'TrueAIR' Suspension Design

Our thanks to Merritt Island, Florida based Arnott Suspension for a reminder about its TruAIR suspension technology and how it differs from many of the other aftermarket motorcycle air suspension options on offer.

Simply put, Arnott says that "the technology used in our designs has been developed to create a true adjustable air suspension, not simple air cylinders, 'air-assisted' shocks or automotive castoffs.

"Hence the name. Arnott TruAIR onboard adjustable air suspension technology provides superior comfort, adjustability and great looks. Arnott kits offer fast, on-the-fly adjustable air spring firmness using a powerful onboard compressor."

Arnott motorcycle air suspension kits are fully adjustable and based on height and weight, "so riders can rest flat-footed while stopped and enjoy a more comfortable ride on long-distance runs, especially when riding two-up or with luggage."

2020 - Current Indian Challenger Series

Arnott emphasizes that its kits are designed and tuned specifically for motorcycles. Even if the air spring sleeve is fully deflated, the fender won’t touch the tire, unlike automotive-designed shocks installed on motorcycles. "Since Arnott’s TruAIR suspension is true onboard adjustable air suspension, it helps to significantly reduce issues seen in air cylinders or ‘air-assisted’ shocks such as bouncy rides and the danger during evasive maneuvering or hard riding."

2020-2023 BMW R18 Series Ultimate Ride Kit

Conventional spring and shock tuning can be "tedious and time-consuming - taking days or even weeks." With Arnott’s onboard adjustability, tuning air suspension to the rider's individual taste and needs is often reduced to just a few minutes. Setting the suspension to specific drive conditions is therefore also quicker and faster, improving the overall ride.

"By adjusting air pressure and shock valving, the ride can be smooth and comfortable, firm and rigid, or somewhere in the middle. What makes Arnott air suspension unique is that you can alter the motorcycle’s ride performance based on desired settings, all with existing components."

2009-2022 Harley-Davidson Touring Series Ultimate Ride Kit

Features of Arnott's CNC-machined components and patented design include a multi-ply Goodyear sleeve, urethane bump stop, motorcycle-specific bushings, a protective aluminum can, mototube damper and optional rebound damping adjustment.

ARNOTT AIR SUSPENSION

www.arnottcycles.com

Arlen Ness

Arlen Ness - Additions for 2018 and up Softails

Rear 6-Piston 'Diff-Bore' Brake Caliper Kit for M-8 Softails

Available in chrome or black anodized, with black anodized bracket, these six-piston differential-bore rear brake caliper kits "drastically improve braking performance on 2018-later M-8 Softail models. 

"Our innovative design allows you to keep factory brake lines, eliminating the need to replace troublesome factory ABS lines (only kit on the market)." 

Each kit includes billet caliper bracket, brake caliper, jumper brake line, banjo bolt and any necessary installation hardware; the rear bracket kit properly locates the brake caliper for use with factory diameter rear brake rotors (11.5" brake rotors). 

Rear Brake Caliper Bracket Kit

The separately available CNC-machined black anodized rear brake caliper bracket kit allows performance brake calipers to be installed on the rear of M-8 Softail models. Designed to accept Arlen Ness performance brake calipers (4 and 6 piston), the bracket properly locates Arlen Ness brake calipers to the proper position on the rear of '18-up M-8 Softails.

Big Brake Rotors

Said to "drastically improve braking performance" and upgrade the style of the factory or aftermarket front wheel, Ness floating 420 stainless steel 'Jagged' rotor "is engineered for optimum performance and heat dispersion." CNC-machined billet brake caliper adapters are included in each kit to relocate the factory caliper for use with the 15" oversized brake rotor; matching 'Jagged' factory sized rotors also available. Fitment is for Bagger, Dyna, Sportster and Softail models (five-bolt hub mount), and available sizes include factory, 13", 14" and 15". 

Also seen here in "Standard" style for Dyna, Softail and Sportster models equipped with factory hub mounted rotors; they will not work with inverted forks or Springers. 

49 mm Fork Tubes

These gold and black finish 49 mm M-8 Softail fork tubes are available in a choice of factory/stock (23-3/4) and +2” extended length. The +2" length adds additional height to the front end for riders looking to increase ground clearance. They will work with both factory and aftermarket front suspension internals and fork legs. Fitments are for '18-up FXBR/FLDE/FXLR/FLHC/FLSL/FXBB/FLHCS/FXST.

Brake Arms and Billet Foot Control Kits

Ness offers a choice of custom brake arms in a range of finishes and styles such as Deep Cut, 10-Gauge, Radius and, seen here in billet foot control kits, as part of the popular Ness 'Speedliner' styled accessory range.

Offered in solo or heel/toe shifter arm configurations, 'Speedliner' foot control kits are performance-based foot controls that include a shift arm, brake arm, inner shift lever and shift rod. Their 3D knurled billet design drastically enhances foot control styling while keeping an overall clean look. 

"The shift rod features specially designed spherical bearings hydraulically pressed in for an ultra-clean look, eliminating the need for heim joints; each component is CNC-machined from billet aluminum; finishes include chrome red, blue and gold anodized. Fitments are available for Bagger and Softail models. 

Stage 2 Oval Performance Filter - 50% More Surface Area

Ness' Stage 2 oval performance air filter kits for factory oval H-D air cleaners both increase performance and add style to the engine. They feature a performance filter made in a high-flow, black, pre-oiled cotton media with pleated top - to take in air from the sides and top of the filter for maximum airflow - offering almost 50% more air filter surface area than paper filters found in factory oval air cleaners.

The increased filter height is specially designed to increase airflow without reducing leg room. Filter cover, spacers and clamps are all CNC-machined from billet aluminum. The available finishes include black, contrast, red and gold anodized finish and chrome; fitments are for oval Screamin' Eagle ventilator air cleaners and M-8 special/ST models equipped with H-D oval ventilator air cleaner backing plates.

ARLEN NESS ENTERPRISES

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