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Tuesday, 15 July 2025

KTM

KTM sells over 100,000 motorcycles worldwide in first half of 2025


KTM says it delivered 50,286 motorcycles to dealers and importers in the first half of 2025, as part of total global sales to end customers of some 100,000 units.

Reporting that retailers and importers are saying that "demand for all brands is high globally, KTM claims it is "back on track for success" and "actively recruiting again."



In a July 08 news release, CEO Gottfried Neumeister says that KTM AG "exceeded its own expectations. The last six months have shown that the motorcycle community's support for the KTM brand remains unbroken. Our innovative spirit, our know-how, and our passion are responsible for our strong market position - over 100,000 motorcycles sold in the first half of the year give us confidence that our bikes are popular all over the world and that we are back on the right track."

The company says that it has "significantly" reduced inventory levels and "successfully reactivated its entire supply chain" with "qualified specialists and managers being sought throughout the company, particularly at the headquarters in Upper Austria.


"The last few months have shown us that we are only so strong thanks to our employees. KTM is back on a growth path and is therefore intensively looking for enthusiastic employees for all Austrian and international locations. Anyone who wants to actively shape the company around the KTM brand will find a place with us," emphasizes Gottfried Neumeister.

The company statement says that "KTM has its sights set firmly on the future. The focus is on customer satisfaction, quality, and sustainable success. This requires listening. With initiatives like 'Orange Blood' and the participatory 'Orange Board,' KTM aims to actively involve customers. 

"A 15-member panel was assembled from over 5,000 applications, where customers can provide feedback to management and openly discuss key topics. The goal is to drive practical innovations, further develop the brand, and address current industry trends early on.

"The newly established Dealer Excellence Center supports the global dealer network and contributes to even stronger customer loyalty. If we put the customer at the center of our actions and focus on quality and differentiation, this will be reflected in the economic success of our company in the future," Gottfried Neumeister concluded.

News Briefs



Honda appears to reach significant milestones at a dizzying rate, but by any measure this latest one is extraordinary. The company has reached and surpassed the 500-million-unit milestone in cumulative global motorcycle production. Their first motorcycle model, a Dream D-Type was produced in 1949. A super Cub was the 100 millionth, a Gold Wing marked 300 millionth and now, a Honda Activa was the 500 millionth, 76 years after the first. On its way to the historic milestone, the company now has motorcycle and scooter production facilities in 23 countries, having opened its first outside of Japan in Belgium in 1963. 


BRP President and CEO José Boisjoli has announced his retirement after 22-years at the helm of the Canadian powersports Industry major. On his watch BRP grew from a Bombardier spin-off to a publicly traded, leading global OEM. His tenure included leading BRP to market-share dominance in the snowmobile and personal watercraft markets. He also brought massive growth to BRP's ATV/UTV and off-road segment, introduced Can-Am Spyder three-wheel motorcycles, and made segment-defining moves in the marine market. "In 2003 we had two product lines that were profitable and two product lines that were not profitable," said Boisjoli. "Today, we have seven profitable product lines, and we have a diversified product portfolio and an international manufacturing footprint." That said, welcome to 2025. In common with other powersports industry and motorcycle businesses, the serenity above the water line isn't matched by the furious paddling going on below.


Sponsored by Nashville, TN, based Boswell's H-D (Bubba Boswell), Flat Track racing star Brandon Robinson has been named Grand Marshal of the 2025 Roof Systems AMA Flat Track Grand Championship. A proven contender with an impressive 16 National wins and 45 podium finishes, this brave new production bikes AFT era sees him racing aboard the all-conquering H-D XG-750R for the Mission Foods Roof Systems JCS racing Team (which is also supported by Ben Evans Racing, Liqui Moly, R&B, Arai, Vance & Hines, Underground Suspension, Wilwood, Motion Pro, Alpinestars, Saddlemen, ODI, CTI and WCHS).

Buell

Buell Super Cruiser and SuperTouring models

By Ben Purvis


It was back in 2023 that Bill Mevin's Grand Rapid, Michigan-based Buell revealed the prototypes for its SuperTouring and Super Cruiser motorcycle models. They were planned as bikes that each would do exactly what their names suggest by combining superbike-derived V-twin engines with touring and cruiser styles respectively. Now both models have been confirmed for production later in 2025 and Buell has confirmed the first of their technical details.


SuperTouring

Both bikes are built around the same 1,190 cc V-twin that's at the heart of all Buell's current bikes, but in different specs. The Super Cruiser is rated at 175 hp, with 100 lbft of torque, with the engine bolted into a steel tube chassis while retaining the typical Buell cast aluminium swingarm. The result is a weight of 225 kg, relatively light for a cruiser-style bike, and performance that should put the machine well clear of most rivals. In the USA, the price will start at $25,900.

The SuperTouring, by contrast, uses a cast aluminium, fuel-in-frame chassis closer in style to the design used on Buell's Hammerhead superbike and 1190SX roadster, tracing the roots of its construction way back to the Buell XB9R of 2002. 

Super Cruiser

Paired to side-mounted radiators that help keep the wheelbase short, it makes for a more compact bike than most sports tourers. In this bike, the engine is tuned to 185 hp and 102 lbft of torque, while weight is just 199 kg wet without the luggage fitted. At a US-market MSRP of $23,995, it's priced above the $19,995 1190SX and $20,995 Hammerhead, but below the Super Cruiser.

Buell has also confirmed that it's returning to the European market for the first time several years, initially teaming up with Rainbow Moto in Devon, England, to put the Buell brand back on sale in the country for the first time since the original version of the company that was closed by then-owners Harley-Davidson back in 2009.


2025 Mission King of the Baggers Road Racing series

Wyman and Rispoli in Laguna Seca Double Header Wins

Race report, results & pictures from Harley-Davidson


The Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Race Team rider Kyle Wyman continued his domination of the 2025 Mission King of the Baggers Road Racing series. He set a new lap record to lead qualifying - going on to win the Mission Challenge and both championship series 'main event' races in a double-header race weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Salinas, California (rounds 7 & 8, July 12 & 13, 2025).

James Rispoli scores two Mission Super Hooligan victories

His #33 race-prepared Road Glide has propelled Wyman to six victories in eight King of the Baggers races this season, and a massive 76-point lead in the standings as the series heads to the Mid-Ohio circuit next, rounds 9 & 10, August 16 & 17, 2025.


Kyle Wyman doubles to dominate King Of The Baggers at Laguna Seca

Also at Laguna Seca, KWR Harley-Davidson rider James Rispoli rode a race-prepared Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 ST motorcycle to a clean sweep in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship Presented By Roland Sands Designs and powered by Harley-Davidson. Rispoli topped qualifying and won both races in the double-header event, his first victories in the series.


KOTB - Laguna Seca Race 1

1. Kyle Wyman (H-D) Harley x Dynojet 

2. Loris Baz (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle

3. Rocco Landers (H-D) RevZilla/Vance & Hines H-D

4. Troy Herfoss (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle

5. Bradley Smith (H-D) Harley x Dynojet 

6. James Rispoli (H-D) Harley x Dynojet 

7. Cory West (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development

8. Max Flinders (H-D) Lyndall Brakes/M3

9. Tyler O'Hara (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle


KOTB - Laguna Seca Race 2

1. Kyle Wyman (H-D) Harley x Dynojet 

2. Rocco Landers (H-D) RevZilla/Vance & Hines H-D

3. Tyler O'Hara (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle

4. Loris Baz (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle

5. Troy Herfoss (Ind) S&S/Indian Motorcycle

6. Cory West (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development

7. Cameron Petersen (Ind) SDI Racing

8. Bradley Smith (H-D) Harley x Dynojet 


Super Hooligan - Laguna Seca Race 1 (Top 10)

1. James Rispoli (H-D) KWR Harley-Davidson

2. Cory West (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development 

3. Cody Wyman (H-D) KWR Harley-Davidson

4. Hayden Schultz (H-D) KWR Harley-Davidson

5. Travis Wyman (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development

6. Andy DiBrino (Tri) Competition Werkes Racing

7. Jason Waters (Tri) Edge Racing

8. Corey Alexander (Arch) ARCH Racing

9. Hunter Dunham (Yam) Fighting Charlie's/HDR

10. Hawk Mazzotta (Yam) Strack Racing


Super Hooligan - Laguna Seca Race 2 (Top 10)

1. James Rispoli (H-D) KWR Harley-Davidson

2. Cory West (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development

3. Hayden Schultz (H-D) KWR Harley-Davidson

4. Travis Wyman (H-D) Saddlemen Race Development

5. Andy DiBrino (Tri) Competition Werkes Racing

6. Corey Alexander (Arch) ARCH Racing

7. Jason Waters (Tri) Edge Racing

8. Hunter Dunham (Yam) Fighting Charlie's/HDR

9. Hawk Mazzotta (Yam) Strack Racing

10. Josh Baird (Tri) 210 SpeedLab Racing

NAMZ Custom Cycle Products

Instrument Extension Harness for Pan America and Sportster S


NAMZ Custom Cycle Products (NCCP, Oreland, PA) celebrated its 25th anniversary last year by adding to the existing NCCP, Badlands and Letric Lighting product brand programs with NOS - NAMZ Original Stuff. Everything NAMZ does is dedicated to helping you to "Do It Right", and this new brand concept is a small but passionately dedicated, personally curated line of "parts that have been overlooked for too long," says CEO and founder Jeff Zielinski. 



Seen here is an additional fresh new NAMZ product from "The Ideas Man", a 100% plug-n-play, 15” PVC jacketed replacement speedometer and instrument extension harness - a classically simple solution for all 2021-2025 Pan America and Sportster S Models.


NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS

www.namzccp.com 

Legend Suspensions

Legend REVO-ARC Extended Coil Touring Shocks


Sturgis, South Dakota based Legend Suspensions has released details of its REVO-ARC remote reservoir shock absorber upgrades for FL applications from 1999–2025.

Featuring adjustable rebound and compression damping, a touring-specific extended coil has been designed to deliver a "plush, performance-driven experience. The extended coil increases control and resists bottoming out - without changing the overall shock length."

There are external knobs for precision rebound and compression tuning - no tools are needed as the design means easy hand-adjustments with the ACME threaded body. Legend says that minimal preload changes are needed across varying weights and loads.

The high-performance build features billet aluminum monotube dampers, PTFE bearings, and low-friction seals.

The adjustable rebound allows riders to fine-tune how their bike responds after hitting a bump - controlling how fast the shock returns, which can be tuned according to riding preference to make the ride feel either more or less "bouncy".

The compression is built into the reservoir - this lets riders adjust how firm or soft the ride feels by controlling oil flow during compression, resulting in customizable suspension performance. Precision-installed spherical bearings allow the shocks to pivot side-to-side, preventing chassis binding and ensuring smooth, stable cornering. 

REVO-A shocks are also available as piggyback shocks for selected Dyna, FXR and Sportster fitments.


LEGEND SUSPENSIONS

www.legendsuspensions.com

Kraus

Kraus - KR8 Inverted Bagger Front End Kit


Kraus KR8 Inverted Front End Kits, designed specifically for performance Bagger upgrade include Öhlins inverted front forks, known for their superior handling and ride quality, as well as new KR8 triple trees, Kraus radial brake mounts, and KR8 fork guards to protect the fork seals. 

The kit is also compatible with the Kraus Isolated Riser system, allowing for a customizable riding position. This kit is the result of a partnership between Kraus Moto and Öhlins racing technology, ensuring top-of-the-line quality and performance. Choose between performance valving for a refined ride or touring valving for a plusher feel.

Benefits are said to be improved handling and ride quality for a better overall riding experience, a customizable look and riding position, increased braking power for added safety and high-quality components for long-lasting durability. There is a choice of +1" (standard) and (+2") fork length options.

The KR8 triple trees deliver a custom look and improved stability; Kraus 108 mm radial brake mounts deliver increased braking power and, importantly in performance applications, the KR8 fork guards protect the fork seals. The kit is compatible with the Kraus Isolated riser system for customizable riding position.

Touring Valving means the upper part of the stroke provides a comfortable, plush ride. As the stroke deepens, the valving manages the forces, allowing the fork to adapt to the road surface for optimal traction and road-holding capability, even with a fully loaded bike. "This fork is specifically designed and recommended for long-distance riders seeking the ultimate touring experience."

Performance Valving is "developed tuning" of the kind used by track riders and those who ride hard. The length option is +2" which is especially suited for aggressive riders looking to maximize their lean angle. This option raises the ride by 2 inches, boosting ground clearance - "perfect for high-speed twisties and track use."

Fitment includes 2008-2013 Harley Touring Models (1" Stem) and 2014-Up Harley Touring Models (30 mm Stem). Note - the 21" front wheel will not fit "Standard Length (Touring Valving)." Fender clearance is limited on 21" front wheel and fender. Outer tube tops must be flush with top of tree during install; 08 mm Radial Brake Fitment Only. 2024 models will require purchase of KR8 Fender Adapter Brackets or 23' and below year model fender; CB-FFN-19MD-210 & CB-FFN-19SH-205 are compatible. 

2024 Street Glide fitment is coming soon; see also SX5 Inverted Front End Kits for Softails.


KRAUS MOTOR CO.

www.krausmotorco.com


Kodlin

Kodlin USA Ascent Pro Pullback Risers and Gauge Bezel Kits


Precision CNC-machined from billet aluminum, these Kodlin designed risers feature 1.5" of pullback in 8" or 10" height with a 1 1/4" bar clamp size.

Drilled for internal wiring, they are available in choice of black anodized or chrome finishes, and ship with all necessary hardware for all Harley models with 3-1/2" on-center handlebars (including 2024 and 2025 Road Glides without the need to extend cables).


Also seen here, the matching CNC billet aluminum machined Digital Gauge Bezel Kit for the Kodlin Ascent Pro risers uses the OEM/aftermarket instrument cluster of Street Bob MY18-24, Lowrider ST MY22-24, MY18-24 Breakout and Softail Standard MY20-24 models. They are also available in a choice of black or chrome.

Finally, Kodlin also offers a CNC machined billet aluminum Round Gauge Bezel Kit for the Ascent Pro risers, that uses the OEM/Aftermarket instrument cluster of round speedo, used on MY22-25 Lowrider S models and all MY25 Softail models.


KODLIN USA

www.kodlinusa.com

Tuesday, 8 July 2025

AFT

Daniels Wins Memphis Shades DuQuoin Mile 

DuQuoin State Fairgrounds, Illinois

R-8 July 05-07-25


Mission Supertwins

Dallas Daniels won the DuQuoin Mile by the narrowest of margins, official 0.037-second margin of victory following a hectic five-rider showdown to the very end. Riding the Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT, an early eight-rider scrap whittled down to six after a few minutes of fighting. 

It then took its final form of five - which included Daniels, title rival Briar Bauman (No. 3 RWR/Parts Plus/Latus Motors Harley-Davidson XG750R), James Ott (No. 19 G&G Racing Yamaha MT-07), Declan Bender (No. 70 Memphis Shades/Corbin/OTB Racing Yamaha MT-07), and Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) - after Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere's BMC Racing KTM 790 Duke) was forced out due to mechanical issues. 

Ott was eventually second, ahead of Bender in third, with Robinson fourth and Bauman fifth. It was an all Yamaha lock-out of Podium spots for the Yamahas with the two Harleys in fourth and fifth followed home by five more production bike brands, to make seven in the top ten in total - the Kawasaki Ninja 650 (Dalton Gaulthier) , KTM 790 Duke (Jared VanDerkooi), Honda Transalp (Trent Lowe), Suzuki GSX-8S (Dan Bromley)and Royal Enfield 650 of the Moto Anatomy X Royal Enfield team in tenth (Max Whale).


Picture from - AFT/Tim Lester


AFT Singles presented by KICKER 

In just over the span of a week, Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) took a protracted wins drought and vulnerable AFT Singles presented by KICKER championship position and transformed it into a three-race victory streak and a commanding 20-point advantage. 

The Australian did so in an intense Main Event that saw an eight-rider lead freight train storm past the checkered flag separated by a combined 0.342 seconds. As it went, the heated rivalry between Drane and Chase Saathoff (No. 88 RWR/Parts Plus Honda CRF450R) got that much hotter - Saathoff came up just 0.020 seconds in claiming second.

Eventual third-place finisher was Trevor Brunner (No. 21 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) with Hunter Bauer (No. 24 Vinson Construction/Reel Medics Yamaha YZ450F) fourth and Evan Renshaw (No. 65 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) fifth. 

There were two Yamaha Yz450F riders (Drane and Bauer); four Honda CRF450Rs (Saathoff, Brunner, Tarren Santero eighth and Jared Lowe ninth); two KTM 450 SX-Fs (Brandon Pfanders sixth and Tyler Raggio tenth) with two Husqvarna FC 450 badged KTM's in fifth (Evan Renshaw) and seventh (Chad Cose).

Next Up: The Lucas Oil Speedway hosts an AFT debut Short Track on July 18 (Wheatland, Mo.) before the series heads to the Black Hills of South Dakota. During the 75th Rally, production manufacturers will be competing for attention in the midst of a captive audience of some 500,000 or more riders. From a tentative single race first outing two years ago, Sturgis is now a three-race residency - two Jack Pine Short Tracks on August 4 and 5 (the August 5 race will feature a second outing for the AFT's Mission Triple Challenge format concept) before wrapping the Rally up with a downtown TT on August 10. 

Straight after Sturgis it's the Peoria TT in Illinois on August 16, then the Springfield Miles I & II on August 30 and 31( the August 30 Springfield Milke I will see the final of the three experiments the AFT has been trialling this year - the Mission Triple Challenge format concept) before the season finale, a Short Track at Ozark, Missouri on September 13. 

www.americanflattrack.com


News Briefs



BRP has reported fiscal year 2026 Q1 results with revenues of $1,846.9m, down by -7.7% compared to last year; net income of $161.0m, an increase of 278.8%; EBITDA of $200.8m, a decrease of 34.7%. Diluted EPS of $0.47 was a decrease of $1.11 per share, and diluted earnings per share of $2.19 was an increase of $1.63 per share, compared to last year. North American retail sales were flat compared to last year, resulting from strong end-of-season retail in Snowmobile, offset by a decrease in Year-Round Products retail mainly due to the industry's slowdown. BRP has agreed to sell Telwater Pty, Ltd. (Australia), and closed the sale of Alumacraft's assets.


The MRF reports that the US House of Representatives has passed two bills crafted to overturn regulations approved by the Biden Administration, allowing California to mandate more electric trucks and cars be sold in the state. "The bills received bipartisan support and will help to protect the internal combustion engine, a top legislative priority for the MRF."


The AMA has added three established racing series to its schedule - J Day Off Road in New York/New England, the Grassroots Off Road Series in Nevada, Idaho and Utah becomes a new AMA Featured Grand Prix Series and the 10-round plus Grand Prix event American Woods Racing Championship Series in Pennsylvania and Ohio all joining the AMA's racing slate this year.


Brembo has released Q1 results showing revenues at € 957m (approx $1,088m) down by -4.7% compared to Q1 2024. EBITDA was € 153.3m at a 16% margin; net profit was € 51.1m. Its net financial debt was € 778.6m, which was up by € 249.1m due to the € 362m Öhlins acquisition. Executive Chairman Matteo Tiraboschi: "Our Q1 results reflect an extremely challenging market context, as we had expected."


Shock absorber manufacturer Fox Factory Holding Corp. (NASDAQ:FOXF) has reported Q1 2025 net sales of $355m, up by $22m or 6.5% over prior year. Net sales increased over prior year across all segments, with Aftermarket Applications Group (AAG), which includes its aftermarket motorcycle shock absorber business, saw net sales up by $10.1m (+9.9%).


BRP

BRP Flagship Store


Canadian powersports vehicle manufacturer BRP Inc. has opened its first European flagship store in partnership with its new dealer, Canadian Motors. Located in the heart of Paris at 8 Boulevard du Montparnasse, the new store is set to offer "an innovative and immersive brand experience in an exclusive setting." 



It hosts the Corporation's Can-Am brand with its full range of on-road vehicles, namely the recently introduced Can-Am Pulse and Can-Am Origin electric motorcycles as well as Can-Am Canyon, the newest addition to Can-Am's three-wheel family.


This flagship store is the first one in Europe in BRP's 22-year history. Designed as a retail, experiential, and demo centre, the store is over 144 square metres. Canadian Motors already operates three motorcycle dealerships in France and has a strong experience of selling electric bikes. In addition, BRP will "support Canadian Motors with a diverse range of marketing activities, ultimately helping to bring more foot traffic in the door". BRP currently has a network of more than 450 dealers and distributors across the EMEA region.

www.brp.com


Tecmate

Pro Battery Care Redefined


Battery preparation can become a time-consuming hassle unless you have the right equipment readily available. That applies for new battery activation and recovery of batteries that may have been stored for a long time.


TecMate CEO/CTO Martin Human says that they "have the right, professional battery chargers that make it easy - guaranteeing that those new batteries will work right and last long."

The OptiMate PRO DUO series includes a 4-bank (4-station) and a single bank/station diagnostic battery charger. Both products are global use rated, accepting 100 - 240V 50-60Hz through an IEC-C8 socket that accepts an exchangeable IEC-C7 power cord. 

"The OptiMate PRO4-DUO (p/n: TM670) is the ideal new battery activator. Each of four stations deliver up to 5 amps, with current automatically regulated by the AmpMatic processor to match the selected battery chemistry and the battery's capacity, that is smaller batteries get less current, bigger batteries get more." 

There are three selections per station, Pb (lead) for all 12V lead-acid batteries including standard flooded and sealed (valve-regulating lead-acid) AGM and GEL batteries, LFP for all 12.8V 4-cell-in-series Lithium Ferrous Phosphate (LiFePO4 / LiFe) and the 60' (sixty minutes) for quick activation of any power sport battery. 

'easy for dealers to save time and money'

"The 60' mode allows speedy activation of 'dry' charged AGM back to full charge before being fitted to a vehicle, or bring a factory activated AGM or LFP Li-Ion battery delivered at below 30% charge level (as mandated for shipping,) to full charge before fitment."  

A dead-flat powersport battery can be recovered and then tested, with result displayed on a 3- LED (red-yellow-green) panel.  Each station can save a 'dead flat' battery from as low as half a volt for Pb (lead-acid) and from zero volts for LFP (Lithium) - the LFP mode also includes a manually activated BMS reset to bring new smart lithium batteries out of sleep mode or reset the over-discharge protection and safely recharge the battery. 

"OptiMate PRO-1 DUO (p/n: TM650) is the ultimate technician's battery charger. With selection for Pb (lead-acid) and LFP (Lithium Ferrous Phosphate) batteries, it can activate or 'wake up' all new power-sport batteries or recover a neglected battery. 

"The powerful OptiMate PRO-1 DUO delivers up to 10 amps of charge to get even the biggest powersport battery ready quickly, but charges small batteries equally well as the AmpMatic processor automatically regulates charge rate to match battery size." 

A key feature is the PS (power-supply) mode that provides stable battery support at 13.6V to the vehicle's battery and system during diagnostic service or troubleshooting. A removable hanging hook allows for portable use at the vehicle, with the integrated rubber feet and side bumpers preventing damage to vehicle surfaces.

Martin says that "the OptiMate PRO DUO range has redefined professional battery care and makes it easy for dealers to save time and money."


TECMATE

www.tecmate.com

www.optimate1.com




Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties - Additions


Short Lever Sets

Measuring 2.5" in length (which is 2.27" shorter than OEM levers) these Short Lever Sets feature die cast aluminum construction and are available in chrome or matte black. They are sold in pairs and include anti-rattle clip and clutch lever pivot bushings. Available for '14-'22 XL (except RH Sportster). 


Quick Connect Braided Upper Clutch Cables

Quickly and efficiently replace the OE upper clutch cable with this quick connect braided upper easily with its quick-connect OE lower clutch cable section fitment to significantly reduce installation time - and there is no need to drain the transmission fluid. Cables also come pre-lubricated for smooth, consistent long-lasting action. 

The design meets or exceeds the OE specifications, and the OE cable cover and housing can be re-used. They are available with stainless steel, black/chrome or black/black cable housing and fittings in stock cable lengths for 24 FLHX and 23-24 FLHXSE models. Replaces OEM# 37200574A


Drag Specialties Seats - Predator III Extended Reach 2-Up

For the driver, this seat extends the seating area back 2" and features a 6.5" tall driver support with a narrower design at the front for better leg clearance. For the passenger, the rear portion of the seat measures 9" wide and is contoured for maximum comfort. 

The 3/16" thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers protect the bike's paint. The seat fits with most Drag Specialties and H-D sissy bars. 

It is available in Smooth high-quality automotive-grade vinyl or Smooth solar-reflective leather for 23-24 FLHXSE, FLTRXSE and 24 FLHX FLTRX, FLTRXSTSE models. 


Adjustable Passenger Footpeg Mounts

These Drag Specialties Adjustable Passenger Footpeg Mounts are designed to fit existing passenger peg mounts and come with all necessary mounting hardware. Available in both chrome and gloss black finishes, they provide a sleek look to match any bike's style. 


The mounts are fully adjustable, allowing approximately 2" of movement up/down and fore/aft, ensuring a comfortable fit for almost any passenger. Available for H-D models with standard male-mount passenger footpegs (repl. OEM #50763-09).


Predator III 2-Up Seats 

These Predator III 2-up seats feature a 6.75" tall driver support with a narrower design at the front for better leg clearance. For the passenger, the rear portion of the seat measures 9" wide and is contoured for maximum comfort. The 3/16" thermoformed ABS seat base gives the perfect fit while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers protects the bike's paint.

The seat fits with most Drag Specialties and H-D sissy bars.  It is available in Smooth high-quality automotive-grade vinyl or Smooth solar-reflective leather for 23-24 FLHXSE, FLTRXSE and 24 FLHX FLTRX, FLTRXSTSE models. 


Pan America Mechanical Clutch Lever and Brake Lever  

Featuring a lightweight aluminum construction, these Drag Specialties mechanical clutch and brake levers are direct replacements for stock levers for 21-24 RA1250/1250S models. They are available in a matte black finish; sold individually. 


High Efficiency One-Piece Clutch Cables 

The Drag Specialties High Efficiency (H.E.) Clutch cables have a low effort, maximum efficiency cable design that meets or exceeds OEM specs for fitment, construction and endurance. Their chrome-plated fittings, tempered steel inner wire and nylon inner sleeve provide smooth operation while the non-yellowing clear coated braiding offers abrasion resistance. 

These high-performance cables use the latest technology of longitudinally winding the outer housing lengthwise rather than spiral winding.  This allows the cable to bend in a more natural arc and eliminate spring compression.  They are available in stock length with a braided or black vinyl outer housing for 21-24 FLHR/FLHRXS models. 


DRAG SPECIALTIES

www.dragspecialties.com


S&S Cycle

S&S Cycle M8 VPP Clutches


S&S Cycle has added a line-up of Variable Pressure Plate Clutch options on M8 Softail and Touring Models with cable or clutch actuated hydraulic controls.

Available for cable or hydraulic operated clutches

Described as an easy and cost-effective way to upgrade the stock H-D clutch in a Touring or Softail model, they are said to providing 40-50% more clamping force while retaining the stock clutch lever feel at lower RPMs.

Available for M8 Touring and Softail models

"The S&S Cycle Variable Pressure Plate Clutch works like a lock up clutch with increased torque capacity," says Howard Kelley. "The strength of engagement increases with the RPM. They are a simple, modification free, fully reversible installation and fit behind the stock derby and primary cover."


S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com


Paul Yaffe

Yaffe Has the Clamps


Paul Yaffe, of Paul Yaffe Originals (PYO) and Bagger Nation Fame has a super selection of super clamps with style choices and tech specs optimized for a wide range of applications and model styles.

The all-new Super Digital Riser Clamp is CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum anodized in a choice of black or gold. These clamps work with 1" bars and OE Harley-Davidson or Koso Digital Gauges.

Weld wing super riser clamp



The patented Bagger Nation Weld Wing Super Riser Clamp is a practical front-end tidy-up that protects and adds detailing for a custom look. The patented "No-Slip" Weld Wing Super clamp covers the unsightly welds and steps up 1.25″ handlebars. Available in black accent cut or chrome their performance style looks great on Softails, Dynas, FXRs, Sportsters and V-Rods.

A must when installing internally wired custom handlebars, this incredibly strong design is CNC-machined from a solid block of 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum - with an innovative design that incorporates a series of three locking set screws that virtually lock their ever-popular tall Monkey Bars (or any bar) in place. 

The Weld Wing Super Clamp also covers the unsightly welds and steps on 1.25" handlebars with a 1" clamp area (note - will not fit 2015 to present Road Glides/FLTR or 1.25" bars). This easy bolt-on Super Clamp design eliminates bar slippage the factory engineers never considered.

Super riser clamp

Finally, for this selection, the NO SLIP Super Riser Clamp all but eliminates the potential for handlebar slippage that is common with tall bars and big riders. 

A must when installing internally wired custom handlebars, "our incredibly strong design is CNC machined from a solid block of 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum. This innovative design incorporates a series of three locking screws that virtually lock tall bars in place."

Options include 10", 1.25" or 1.00" handlebar center section, with 2023 and later "Next Gen" Road and Street Glide coming soon.



Additionally, 2007-Earlier HD Touring models have a 2-piece top clamp system that can create a safety problem when handlebars are used with internal wiring. A large wiring exit hole is required on handlebars designed for internal wiring. This design factor can create a stress riser or breakage point where the handlebar is weakest at a point where the leverage is greatest at the same time. "The use of our Super Riser Clamp practically eliminates this stress area and makes the wire exit of the handlebar the strongest, not the weakest point.

"The Bagger Nation Super Riser Clamp and its 1-piece design, with bar-locking set screws machined into the clamp, will prevent inferior handlebars with poor knurling from slipping. Our Super Clamp has a wire relief incorporated into its design specifically for internal wiring applications. This design displaces pressure off of the center of the handlebar, making the handlebar stronger and more secure. This becomes especially important when using 1" handlebar styles and internal wiring."


PAUL YAFFE ORIGINALS

HOME OF BAGGER NATION

www.baggernation.com




Super digital riser clamp

American Prime Manufacturing (APM)

Comp Master - Extra Plates for More Power


For those who don't have the budget to upgrade from the lacklustre performance of the stock Big Twin clutch with a complete replacement clutch, performance replacement clutch packs are a tried and tested way to go.

TPP variable pressure clutch assist

Harley's clutch designs have simply not kept pace with the extra power that late-model Big Twins are capable of pushing out. Replacement clutch packs have become an increasingly popular alternative to complete replacement performance clutches – especially for those dealers who want to be sure they are able to cater for riders who are "on a budget."



Stock replacement clutch packs

American Prime Manufacturing (APM – Ben Kudon) has a wide range of Comp Master options, starting with this springs-inclusive extra plate stock replacement clutch pack. They install using all the stock components and are available for a wide range of H-D Big Twins from 1990 up.

Also seen here, APM's TPP Variable Pressure Clutch Assist to the Comp Master clutch increases the amount of power the clutch will hold and further decrease wrist strain. It is available for hydraulic and cable actuated applications. 


AMERICAN PRIME MANUFACTURING

www.americanprimemfginc.com

Wednesday, 2 July 2025

Comment by Editor-in-Chief, Robin Bradley

Floating On a Sea of Debt - Mk. 3.0


Remember the 2007-2009 Financial Crisis? When unregulated credit swaps and derivatives trading brought global capitalism to its knees? Well, high-risk securities are back.

The Shadow Banking Sector is a newly emerged and almost entirely discrete and unregulated variation on the madness of 2008. The sector is trying its hand at trading in debt-based products such as Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs - see also Broadly Syndicated Loans/BSL).

In this era of deregulated interconnected and interdependent systems controlling markets there is no available framework, no lens, through which these risks can be analysed.

Some 16 years on from the chicken-into-steak smoke and mirrors of sub-prime domestic mortgage-backed securities, increasingly alarming reports and forecasts are emerging that point to the potential triggers for the next great financial industry meltdown. Government malfeasance aside, the most likely such source is widely thought likely to be Wall Street's latest bonus machine du jour - bundled loans that are linked to highly indebted companies backed by private equity firms.

A major part of the growing but opaque portion of the financial system, the Shadow Banking Sector is populated by financial businesses that face little to no regulation (compared with traditional lenders) that have been engineered from the ground up to be able to 'prosper' outside the reach, competency, capital and security reporting requirements of financial regulations.

It's a game of whack-a-mole. You regulate stuff, but the financial system finds ways around the regulation very quickly. 

Every time any of us hear or read about someone in the financial services industry (or a politician) suggesting that they should be freed from the capital and liquidity requirements of systems such as Basel 1, 2 and 3 (or others, such as the already gutted Dodd Frank Act) you are hearing someone lobby in favor of increasing risk and reducing protection for 'Main Street' savers, pension investors and consumer or commercial borrowers. 


"chicken into steak again"

Those Shadow Banking Sector businesses include entities such as hedge funds, private credit providers, money market funds and private equity firms and funds. 

One of the indisputable common denominators between them is that these are financial intermediaries that provide credit and liquidity transformation, similar to traditional banks, but that are more closely aligned to the chicken into steak of 16 years ago, and who operate outside of standard banking regulations. 

Theoretically, these institutions, often referred to as "non-bank financial intermediaries," offer potential benefits like increased credit availability and a more diversified financial system, but by definition, due to their lack of transparency, regulation and oversight, they also offer increased risk and reduced stability.

So, try this on for size - spoiler alert: reading on could seriously ruin your day. The lowest estimate I found of the value of today's global securitization market (more jargon designed for deflection) is some $6.4tn of assets, of which (as at September 2024) $3.128tn was owned in the U.S. The median estimate of Private Equity held AUM is $10.8tn. Some metrics place the figure way, way higher.

As an aside, as of May 2025 total global debt is put at $324tn, against total global 'GDP' of only $106.43tn to produce the capital to fund that debt. U.S debt is some $36tn on a GDP of around $26tn. How smelly is that?

The 'CLOs' I mentioned are types of securities that are backed by a pool of debt. They include loans to companies with low credit ratings (namely subprime borrowers - ringing any bells?) or capital constrained, start-up or mature and often family or founder owned small to mid-cap businesses (up to $1bn revenue) that generally have a low debt-to-asset ratio, or no debt at all. Namely, they are 'healthy' businesses that have been snapped up by private equity firms with the help of big loans - known as leveraged buyouts - which those businesses will have to repay to the private equity investor. Which means they can never, ever, be as 'healthy' again. 

If anyone ever tells you that such deals are good value, good for the seller, good for the community or good for the economy - run away. Quickly. This is debt-as-product. Debt as civic duty. Debt as fiscal drag. Debt is the enemy of business performance and robs business of the capital resources needed to continue organic growth or M&A activity. None of this is rocket science.

So why should we in the motorcycle (or any other) industry care about this? The amount of assets managed by private equity businesses globally grew at an annual rate of about 13% from what now seems like a modest $2tn in 2012, to around $8tn in 2023. Then by the end of last year, Private Equity AUM hit an all-time high of $10.8tn, reflecting an 11.6% increase in just 12 months.  

This is insane. This is out of control, and it is deregulated. Private equity's long-term expansion has seen market values surging 636% since 2009 and more than doubling since 2019. Which means those market values are themselves castles built of sand.

Many observers, analysts, economists and even many bankers, traders and politicians are now adding to the crescendo of siren voices warning that we are fast, and ever faster, approaching a tipping pint whereby business indebtedness grows exponentially, becoming a runaway train racing downhill in the dark with no brakes and no lights.

Just as was seen in 2008 this train has the potential to sweep away all before it, crashing through all guardrails and burying western economies under a tsunami of debt that will take not just 3-5 years but decades to start rebuilding from. That's why we in the motorcycle industry, all industries, need to be afraid. Very afraid. 


Sources referenced in the research for this piece include but are not limited to: WSJ, FT, The Economist, New York Times, London Times, Reuters, Bloomberg, CNBC, OECD, IMF, Word Bank, IIF, Statista, The Guardian


News Briefs



Reports suggest that promising Vancouver based electric sportbike manufacturer Damon Motorcycles will likely be removed from the NASDAQ stock market as its shares have "lost all value". Another example of an over optimistic EV start-up finding out the hard way that going public probably wasn't the best idea. Having lost one of its co-founders (Jay Giraud) its CEO, CMO and CTO Derek Doresteyn, the brand is now back in the hands of the other co-founder Dominique Kwong as CEO. Doresteyn was the man behind SF Bay Area Alta Motors and its much-admired Redshift MXR electric off-roader - before Harley screwed that pooch (having previously done much the same to Mission Motors - another Bay Area WV start-up). Damon has stated that it was back, and that it is moving into the mobility space, as well as open to licensing its safety and electric powertrain technology to industry partners. 


BRP's Design and Innovation Team has been recognized with the coveted Red Dot Design Team of the Year 2025 award. Presented since 1988, prior recipients include Ferrari, Thule, Apple and Porsche.


In a pre-emptive move ahead of likely tariff impacts, Garland Tx. based price-point UTV', off-road, on-road and marine manufacturer Massimo (NASDAQ: MAMO) has moved its MVR Golf Cart Production to the U.S. to "enhance quality control and market positioning." Founded in 2009, Massimo is a manufacturer and distributor of internal combustion engine and electric powered powersports vehicles and pontoon boats. The company's 376,000 square foot factory is in the heart of the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas in the city of Garland; www.massimomotor.com


Pirelli is to become the Official MotoGP tire supplier from 2027 - Michelin will remain the exclusive supplier for MotoGP and MotoE until the end of the current technical regulations, at the close of the 2026 season. Pirelli is already the 'spec-tire' for Moto2, Moto3 and much of the Road to MotoGP. A new five-year contract will run thru 2031 inclusive; www.motogp.com


RideApart reports that Indian manufacturer Royal Enfield sent a year's worth of bikes to the US to beat tariffs - that's a 9,000-motorcycle stockpile, which is said to be well above its usual annual North American sales volume.


With the Progressive AFT Racing Series switching to an all-Production model formula for 2025, manufacturers, sponsors and race teams need to keep a close eye on whether the change will improve or reduce the effectiveness of their investments. The AFT Viewership & Metrics Dashboard delivers downloadable and up-to-date numbers that show exactly who's tuning in and how fast the audience is growing; www.amaproracing.com


AMA will award multiple racers with prestigious AMA National No. 1 Plates during the Roof Systems AMA Flat Track Grand Championship, which runs June 29-July 5 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds in Du Quoin, Ill. There will also be a slew of special awards also up for grabs, such as the Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award, the Bill Werner AMA Fast Brain Award, and the Youth Racer and Vet/Sr. Racer of the Year Awards. Prior winners of the Nicky Hayden Award have included Jared Mees, Briar Bauman, Kody Kopp and Dallas Daniels; www.americanmotorcyclist.com


SEMA has welcomed the end of EV Mandates in the US. A successful bipartisan effort to end EV mandates are said to have marked "the result of a monumental, years-long effort to educate voters and lawmakers on the importance of preserving vehicle choice in the U.S. By halting a California-led effort to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles through EV mandates for 40% of the nation's population, the Senate, and, before it the House of Representatives, has shown courage in the face of radical policymakers and exhibited confidence in American innovation and ingenuity borne out of the automotive aftermarket industry." California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation "jeopardized a significant sector of the American economy. A third of the specialty automotive aftermarket is based on ICE technology. The Senate vote to end California's national EV mandate and ICE vehicle ban protects $100bn of annual economic impact to the nation's economy and the more than 330,000 American jobs that these policies threatened."


AMA has applauded Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) for signing Act 312 into law on March 18, establishing inherent risk for off-road motorcyclists and enhancing protections for event organizers throughout the state. The Act offers greater protections for private landowners who provide access to their land for off-road recreation and competition.