KTM

KTM AG Reorganization Plan Accepted by Creditors

KTM AG parent company PIERER Mobility claims it is "Back on track" with the announcement that the restructuring plan lodged as a result of its November 20, 2024, self-administration court restructuring proceedings (Austria, February 25, 2025) has been accepted by KTM's creditors.

The aim of the proceedings was to agree a restructuring plan with the creditors within 90 days, and the plan that has been accepted meets that deadline. 

KTM AG must deposit an amount of € 548m (a 30% quota of its creditor indebtedness) with the restructuring administrator by May 23, 2025, at the latest. The court will then confirm the restructuring plan at the beginning of June 2025 and the restructuring proceedings of KTM AG will end once it becomes legally binding.   

Further fresh capital of around € 800m will be required with the intention being to see production ramped up again from mid-March 2025. In this regard, no mention is made of what happens with the unsold inventory.

In accepting and adopting the restructuring plan, the creditors will see the cash quota of 30% paid to them in settlement of their claims as soon after it has been deposited with the restructuring administrator as possible.

Gottfried Neumeister, CEO of PIERER Mobility AG: "I am grateful and happy today. KTM is back on track. Our employees have done everything over the last three months to ensure that the race can continue. We have closed an important chapter today. But a single chapter never tells the whole story."

This outcome had been expected and differs from original proposals that would have seen creditors receiving 30% of what they are owed over an extended timeframe of up to 24 months.

In a statement that may well be met with a degree of cynicism, Gottfried Neumeister, CEO of PIERER Mobility AG, is quoted as stating: "I am grateful and happy today. KTM is back on track. Our employees have done everything over the last three months to ensure that the race can continue. We have closed an important chapter today. But a single chapter never tells the whole story. 

"Now we can continue the great story of KTM. We do it for the millions of KTM fans worldwide, to whom we are grateful every day. For our racers, of whom we are damn proud. And for our Austrian location, to which we are deeply attached in our hearts. KTM remains one of the top employers in the Upper Austrian industry."

The Pierer AG/KTM AG statement goes on to say that "in order to finance the cash quota and further production, the Group requires fresh capital of around € 800m. Citigroup Global Markets Europe AG ("Citigroup") was commissioned to support this investment process in a structured, transparent and efficient manner in the interests of all stakeholders.

"To enable production to be ramped up again gradually from mid-March 2025, KTM AG will be provided with financial resources totaling € 50m from the extended circle of shareholders. The planned full capacity utilization of the four production lines in single-shift operation is to be achieved within three months."

www.pierermobility.com

News Briefs

Drag Racer Dustin Lee, of Hard Times Parts and Service has bought the respected, previously Sanford, FL based Motorcycle Performance Specialties (MPS Racing) business from owners Dan and Beth Rudd. Long an electrical and component innovator in motorcycle drag racing, MPS is also a warehouse distributor for many top brands in the sport - including APE, Web Cams, Worldwide Bearings, DME, Vance & Hines, and many more. Lee has developed a respected distributing business of his own with Hard Times Parts and Service, and both of these brands will continue the goal of operating seamlessly as the transition to Lee's Tennessee shop occurs over the winter. Dan Rudd started MPS in 1980, "placing it on the forefront of the technological innovations that have transformed both drag racing and internet retailing," says Dustin. "From the first Mixture Control Unit EFI tuning device in '81 through the first ever autoshift in '85 and their leading edge of motorsports websites in '96, MPS has always been a leader of motorcycle drag racing technology;" www.mpsracing.com, www.hardtimesparts.com

Royal Enfield is returning as AFT Official OEM Partner for the sixth consecutive year in 2025. Additionally, the manufacturer returns as the event entitlement sponsor for the Royal Enfield Short Track at Daytona, scheduled for Thursday, March 6 and Friday, March 7, in Daytona Beach, Florida. Royal Enfield's "Build. Train. Race." (BTR) program will return to Progressive AFT events in 2025, kicking off with both days at the Royal Enfield Short Track at Daytona along with other select rounds in the season ahead. This initiative, which highlights and celebrates women in flat track racing, has become a cornerstone of Royal Enfield's involvement with the series. Utilizing customized Royal Enfield INT650 motorcycles, the program combines hands-on motorcycle preparation, skill development, and national-level competition; www.royalenfield.com

JCS Racing has announced the return of Brandon Robinson as its premier class rider in the now fully Production bike only AFT SuperTwins class for the 2025 season - this time aboard the H-D XG750R. Robinson boasts 16 career Mission AFT SuperTwins wins, 45 podium finishes, and numerous top five championship finishes. This marks a reunion of sorts with the H-D brand. He was a Harley factory rider from 2017 to 2018. Wrenching on Robinson's machines this season will be returning crew chief Ben Evans alongside suspension tech Kayl Kolkman.

BMW Motorrad has reported the strongest results in its history for 2024, selling 210,408 motorcycles in total. Germany remains its largest market (26,177 units), followed by France (20,693), Italy (16,617) and Spain (13,009). Total European sales of 118,727 units were up by +8%. Central European markets were +12% at 14,411 despite the economic and geo-political issues there. USA saw 17,272 units sold (essentially flat on 2023), Brazil 15,267, China 13,872 and India 8,301.

In 2012, Washington and Colorado became the first American states to allow cannabis to be sold for recreational use. Another 22 followed, creating a sizeable market: in 2024 Americans spent about $29bn on legal marijuana. But according to analysis by The Economist, the cannabis boom is losing strength. President Joe Biden did not, after all, federally decriminalise the drug, and reform at state level has slowed. The American Cannabis Operator Index, which tracks firms' market value, has fallen by more than 90% since February 2021.

Indian Motorcycle has already had to issue a recall on certain 2025 Scout and Scout Sixty motorcycles. The issue concerns the gear position display - it has been found to possible for it to falsely show that the motorcycle is in neutral. Dealers will update the Engine Control Module (ECM) software, free of charge. 

Supported again by Permco, the 2025 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days are set for July 25-27, at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a rider's paradise. The 2.4-mile road racing track features near-endless racing in various disciplines - including trials, motocross, hare scrambles, road racing and pitbike racing - North America's largest motorcycle swap meet and numerous recreational riding activities, and more; www.vintagemotorcycledays.com

Progressive AFT has announced a five-year partnership with Lincoln Electric to remain as the Official Welder of AFT through the 2029 season.

Parent company Race Winning Brands (RWB) has hired industry veteran Garrett Quinlan as Rekluse brand Product Manager. A drag racer and motorcycle rider Garrett has racked up 24 years of motorsports industry professional experience, 20 of them in powersports. He has spent a lot of time in various product and already had a working knowledge of the Rekluse product range from his time at Western Power Sports. Garrett has also spent valuable time in manufacturing at Pro Moto Billet. Garrett will be working with RWB Director of Product Innovation and Management Nick DiBlasi.

Harley-Davidson

New Pan America 1250 ST, Street Glide Ultra, Six Updated Softails, Updated Sportster S and Four Limited-Edition CVO Models

Described as a "diverse" line of bikes (!) the Street Glide Ultra is a fully equipped long-haul touring model, and the pavement-ready Pan America 1250 ST adventure sport motorcycle recognizes that harsh reality of the ADV sector that the European and Japanese manufacturers have realised from the get-go - namely that some 80% of the miles done on so-called 'Dual Sport' models are in fact urban, suburban and 'peri'-urban. 

The 2025 Softails see six models with "with significantly revised performance and technology features", the Sportster S model is updated with revised suspension for enhanced comfort, and the ever evolving and revolving collection of limited-production Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO) motorcycles includes four models, completing "the most-desirable portfolio of motorcycles ever offered by Harley-Davidson."

“higher demand and highly demanding opportunities hidden in plain sight”

Still with nothing so tawdry as a $10k brand starter (kudos the 2025 Indian Scout 1250s), these new H-D models "complete the collection of 2025 Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring, Cruiser, Sport, Adventure Touring and Trike motorcycles."

NEW 2025 Pan America 1250 ST

By far the most interesting and likely most strategically important of the 2025 offerings, the undoubted winner has to be Pan America 1250 ST - which sees Harley stripping back its good (very good!) but regrettably unpopular (stateside at least, so far) ADV model back down to the rugged basics that will likely make it a functional downtown survivor and highway mile eater.

"Built to lean, born to roam," the existing Pan America has been "reimagined for faster, more comfortable, and capable pavement performance, with lowered suspension, quick-shifting, 17-inch wheels, high-performance tires, and a slimmer, lighter profile."

Pan America 1250 ST

Being widely welcomed in the 'blogosphere', this "dynamic adventure sport motorcycle" is a "practical daily ride, an exciting back-road apex chaser, and a capable weekend touring mount."

The hyperbole further spins it as "designed to appeal to riders ready to exchange a sport bike or streetfighter for an agile bike with more comfort and longer distance capability." But the truth is that the 1,250 cc Revolution Max platform always was a versatile, modular platform with higher demand and highly demanding opportunities hidden in plain sight.

The 1,250 cc liquid-cooled 149 hp, 91 ft. lb torque suspension and braking components will be 'Premium', with a new exhaust that eliminates the mid-chamber found on the Pan America Special exhaust - reducing weight and improving sound quality.

This first entry by Harley-Davidson in the true Adventure Sport segment is "focused on pavement performance - designed to appeal to riders ready to exchange a sport bike or streetfighter for an agile bike with more comfort and longer distance capability, but who don't desire the off-pavement capability of a fully equipped Adventure Touring motorcycle."

The tires are swapped for premium Michelin Scorcher Sport (front 120/70ZR17, rear 180/55R17) street tires, and in addition to the lowered and recalibrated suspension additional features include a new lower seat, lightweight exhaust and a Screamin' Eagle quickshifter that follows the global trend towards clutchless up and down shifts without risking transmission damage. Precise shifts are accomplished in an instant to optimize acceleration and pace during aggressive riding.

The new suspension setting contributes to a lowered motorcycle height that enhances the center of gravity and even, speak it softly, introduces a hint of the kind of dynamic handling that would likely get you through traffic in a way that most ADVs van only dream of. Suspension travel is reduced by 0.75 inches from 7.5 inches F/R to 6.75 inches F/R, compared to the Pan America 1250 Special model.

Adaptive Ride Height (ARH) automatically transitions the motorcycle between a low stopped position and optimal ride height when the motorcycle is in motion. The system allows the rider to mount the Pan America 1250 ST model with ease, and to confidently put feet down to the ground at a stop, by lowering the seat height approximately 1 inch.

Front suspension is a Showa 47 mm balance free fork with electronic preload and manually adjustable compression/rebound damping. Rear suspension is a Showa balance free shock with electronic preload and manually adjustable compression/rebound damping.

The one-piece two-up seat is formed to support the rider during aggressive cornering, the new slim profile makes the motorcycle appear and feel athletic and reduces weight to enhance performance. The radiator shroud is reduced in size and brush guards deleted. A low-profile smoked windshield reduces the motorcycle profile and adds sporty style. The windshield is not height-adjustable though.

Dual front Brembo monoblock, radially mounted four-piston front calipers grip 320 mm hub mounted rotors to optimize high-speed braking performance. There's a Brembo single-piston caliper with 280 mm rotor at the rear.

Five selectable ride modes electronically control the performance characteristics of the motorcycle and the level of technology intervention. The rider may use the hand control mode button to change the active ride mode while riding the motorcycle or when stopped. Ride Modes include Road, Sport, Rain, and two custom modes. 

The 1250 ST is equipped with an extensive suite of Harley's Rider Safety Enhancements - the systems are electronic and utilize the latest chassis control, electronic brake control and powertrain technology, including Straight Line/Cornering electronically linked brakes, ABS, traction control with modes, drag torque slip control, enhanced front wheel lift mitigation (which can be turned off), vehicle hold control and TPMS.

NEW 2025 Street Glide Ultra 

The second new model, the new 2025 Street Glide Ultra "elevates the long-distance touring experience. This new model combines the comfort, technology, performance and design elements introduced on the 2024 Street Glide with new features intended to support two-up, long-haul travel for riders seeking freedom and adventure." 

Street Glide Ultra 

Additionally described as "the most capable regular-production Grand American Touring motorcycle offered by Harley-Davidson," the 2025 Street Glide Ultra is a perfectly valid and worthy addition to Harley's 'top-end' range. It is definitely an evolution rather than a revolution though.

NEW 2025 Cruiser Models

The "reinvigorated" 2025 Cruiser collection "includes six very distinctive motorcycles", each "infused with new technology, elevated performance and refreshed styling", each based on the 117" M-8, and "each representing a specific stylistic personality, from nostalgic to high performance to boldly custom" - Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, Breakout, Heritage Classic, Fat Boy and Street Bob.

Low Rider ST

NEW 2025 Sportster S Model

Underpinned by newly revised suspension, the Sportster S model is "designed to deliver an extraordinary riding experience rooted in the thrill of unleashing on-demand torque for an exhilarating blast of thrust and adrenaline. Its light weight, technology features and bold design appeal to experienced riders, new riders and those ready to step away from the crowd on a motorcycle that discards traditional styling tropes."

Sportster S

Newly revised front and rear suspension offers a 60% increase in rear wheel travel without impacting seat height to improve rider comfort on some pavement conditions. Both front and rear suspension are fully adjustable for compression/rebound damping and preload.

2025 CVO Models

For its 26th annual installment, Harley-Davidson CVO models offer discerning riders four "super-premium, limited production motorcycle models. Each makes a bold statement of power and prestige and represents the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson style and design with new finish and design details for 2025."

CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models "elevate design, technology and performance to meet the expectations of the most demanding and discerning bagger rider."

CVO Road Glide ST 

CVO Road Glide ST model  "inspired by the Screamin' Eagle Factory Team Road Glide bikes competing for the MotoAmerica Mission Foods King of the Baggers championship, combines an exclusive Milwaukee-Eight 121 H.O. engine with a host of high-performance components with attention to custom detail to create a bagger that's quick, fast and sophisticated."

CVO Pan America model, "the program's adventure touring (ADV) motorcycle, is outfitted with a host of rugged Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor accessories designed to enhance the journey. The CVO Pan America model is capable of seeking adventure where any paved and unpaved route leads its rider."

Indian Motorcycle

Indian 2025 Chieftain and Roadmaster - Bigger Engines, Fork Mounted Fairings

For 2025, Indian Motorcycle says it is "pushing American V-twins forward" with new Chieftain and PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus and PowerPlus 112 ci engines - the "fork-mounted fairing models expand the PowerPlus family, building on the performance-oriented, American V-Twin style originally established with the Indian Challenger."

With Big Twin sales still softer than Indian needs them to be, leveraging the popularity of the versatile 'Challenger' platform is a healthy sign that Polaris prepared to be, and capable of being responsive and in a position to embrace 'track to street' trickle-down.

The new PowerPlus 112 ci engine is the one that powered Indian's 2024 King Of The Baggers Championship efforts, one that "delivers both high horsepower and high torque. Powered by our steadfast commitment to innovation and driving the V-Twin category forward, Indian Motorcycle's expansion its PowerPlus family with the Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus. In addition, the company is introducing a 112 ci version of the PowerPlus engine after two years of developing and refining it through the Indian Motorcycle Racing program en route to the team's 2024 King Of The Baggers championship."

Fork Mounted Fairing PowerPlus Chieftain and Roadmaster

As with the Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit chassis-mounted fairing models, the new PowerPlus fork-mounted fairing models "combine a classic muscular American V-Twin style with rider-assist technologies never before offered in an American V-Twin motorcycle. 

"Meanwhile, the new PowerPlus 112 engine expands on the unparalleled performance of its 108ci predecessor – going beyond the power limitations of traditional V-Twin motors to deliver more consistent, sustainable power, with instant acceleration and effortlessly sustained high speeds within every gear throughout the range."

Pursuit Dark Horse

Aaron Jax, Vice President, Indian Motorcycle is quoted as saying: "More than a decade ago when we relaunched Indian Motorcycle, we made a commitment to innovation, just as our original founders did back in 1901. Innovation powered their success, and it is still driving us today; and the expansion of our family of performance-oriented PowerPlus models is a perfect example.

"From liquid-cooled motors and mono-shock rear suspension to the advent of modern performance baggers with the Indian Challenger, we were first to market in the V-twin category with these advancements. It's all part of our ongoing commitment to innovating with features and options that enhance the riding experience for our customers and for generations of riders to come."

'Chiseled Lines'

The new Chieftain PowerPlus and Roadmaster PowerPlus are described as wearing "aggressive and chiseled lines that are a visual representation of their high-performance hearts. Their compact stance makes each model look smaller, lighter, nimbler and more athletic. The new fairing's design is sleek and aerodynamic, offering improved handling and stability at high speeds to provide superior control when compared to previous Chieftain and Roadmaster models." Additional new features include a new LED headlight with integrated daytime running lights around its center.

New PowerPlus 112

The PowerPlus 112 delivers a claimed 126 horsepower and 133 ft-lbs of torque in a contemporary design of high revving, liquid-cooled engine with overhead cams and 4 valves per cylinder with optimized acceleration across the rev range. It is claimed the engine reduces the perceived need to keep constantly changing up that push rod V-twins ask of the rider, with "unrivaled passing power in every gear." 

PowerPlus 112 engine

Powering the Indian Motorcycle factory race team, the PowerPlus 112 helped deliver the 2024 King Of The Baggers championship and is now available across the PowerPlus family, including Chieftain, Challenger, Roadmaster and Pursuit.

Technology

For 2025, the PowerPlus lineup will debut a host of new Rider Assist features that are aimed at improving rider awareness and enhancing rider convenience. These new Rider Assist features will be bundled with previously offered SmartLean Technology and come standard on vehicles with the PowerPlus 112 engine and include bike hold control, electronic combined brake system, blind spot warning, tailgate warning, rear collision warning, 7" display powered by Indian's RIDE COMMAND software and features suite and advanced infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. 

Select PowerPlus models also include RIDE COMMAND+ connected services, offering GPS navigation with turn-by-turn mapping, Apple CarPlay, live traffic and weather overlays, intuitive destination search and more (including next-level bike information sharing, control and connectivity with features such as Bike Locator Bike Health). Three Ride Modes, keyless ignition, USB charging and remote locking saddlebags are standard.

Challenger Limited

Roadmaster PowerPlus and Indian Pursuit offer electronically adjustable rear suspension preload via the in-dash seven-inch, a stitched ClimaCommand heated seat and grips are a luxury that spoils riders when in extreme weather conditions. 

There is a slew of accessory upgrades that emphasise rider and passenger ergonomics. Riders wanting to improve performance out-of-the-crate can do so with an all-new PowerPlus 112 factory kit that includes high-performance pistons, cylinders, head gaskets and premium badging; there is also a PowerPlus Air Intake and heavyweight stage 1 slip-on exhaust (and exhaust tip options) - "all of which is designed to unleash additional power and enhance mid-range throttle response."

S&S Cycle

S&S Piston Cooling Jet Kit

Whether it's a big-inch project or rebuilding a stock Twin Cam, S&S Cycle recommends replacing the OEM single-jet design with the company's new dual-jet oilers.

Designed to reliably and uniformly cool both sides of the pistons, these S&S Piston Cooling Jets are made from 6061-T6 billet aluminum and anodized Performance Blue. This S&S patented design (US Patent #11927127) also includes a shortened nozzle, offering more clearance for performance builds.

Delivering equivalent oil flow to stock, revised spray locations mean more effective cooling and being shorter than the OEM part they replace means greater rod clearance. They ship with all the needed gaskets and hardware. As with all custom installations and builds, S&S recommends checking clearance before final assembly.

S&S CYCLE INC.

www.sscycle.com

Klock Werks

New Flares for Indian Big Twins

Mitchell, South Dakota based Klock Werks has these new Kolor and Ice Series Flare windshields for 2014-2024 Indian Chieftain and Roadmaster models. "These new windshields add vibrant color and striking style options, complementing the already popular tint selections we have for Indian models," said Brian Klock, Founder of Klock Werks. 

The Kolor Flare Windshields offer "bold, eye-catching hues, while the ice series features a light-catching effect that enhances any custom motorcycle build." Designed with Klock Werks "hips and flips," these windshields are said to improve air management, reduce buffeting, and provide a one-of-a-kind look.

"I've truly enjoyed seeing the Indian motorcycle line grow over the years," says Brian. "Our team is passionate about offering riders more customization choices. This series of windshields have been incredibly popular, and we're excited to continue expanding in ways that inspire creativity and enhance the ride."

Available in a "stunning array of colors", the Kolor and Ice series windshields provide riders with endless options for personalization. Riders can choose from Kolor Flares available in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, and bronze along with Ice Flares in pink Ice, orange ice, yellow ice, green ice, and blue ice. They are made from high-quality acrylic.

KLOCK WERKS

www.getklocked.com

Arnott Air Suspension

Arnott 'Ultimate Ride' for Indian Big Twins

Florida-based Arnott's Ultimate Ride Air Suspension Kit has been specifically designed for Indian's 2014-2024 Touring, Cruiser, and Bagger series. This kit "enhances riding experience with exceptional control, comfort, and adjustable height". At its heart is a custom-built, Nitrogen-charged FOX shock absorber, complemented by a rugged Goodyear air spring using a unique patent-pending design. This combination ensures an unparalleled balance of performance and comfort on the road. 

The kit comes with a compact but powerful ViAIR compressor, an application-specific mounting bracket, and an air distribution valve block equipped with a muffler to manage descent speed. Arnott has included everything needed for a seamless installation: a detailed, colored installation manual, a fused wiring harness, a billet handlebar-mounted inflation switch, and all necessary tubing and mounting hardware. 

Every kit is meticulously crafted and rigorously tested in Arnott's Florida manufacturing facility. Each component is backed by Arnott's Limited Lifetime Warranty.

ARNOTT AIR SUSPENSION

www.arnottcycles.com

NAMZ Custom Cycle Products

NAMZ Original Stuff

Launched by NAMZ Custom Cycle Products (NCCP), Founder and CEO Jeff Zielinski at the time of marking the 25th anniversary of his Oreland, Pennsylvania business, NAMZ Original Stuff.

This new brand concept is a small but passionately dedicated, personally curated line of "parts that have been overlooked for too long," says Jeff.

Throttle body cover

Initial product lines included an NOS polished stainless steel FXR-style coil cover for 1982 through 2000 FXR models. It features a unique 180-degree radius design, a highly polished and extra deep top mounting flange to allow for custom spacers, and a NOS polished stainless steel speedometer drive block-off kit for 1936 through 1984 models when not using the transmission mounted speedometer drive.

­Oil sending unit over

Newly added are a NOS Throttle Body Cover for OEM M-8 or aftermarket throttle body that  includes replacement polished stainless Allen screws to replace OEM T-20 security Torx screws; a 'clean look' NOS horizontal or vertical milled Oil Sending Unit Cover to fit over the sensor and connector for all M-8 Touring 2017-Up and Softail 2018-Up models, and a Neutral Switch Cover that fits over switch and wiring for 2007-Up Dyna, Softail and Touring models for that clean, finished look.

Neutral switch cover

All of these aluminum covers are machined from billet aluminum, tumble polished before anodizing or professionally hand polished when sold as polished. Unlike most other brands, NAMZ uses stainless steel hardware to prevent rust or corrosion. Designed, finished and packaged in the USA.

NAMZ CUSTOM CYCLE PRODUCTS

www.namzccp.com

Comment by Editor-in-Chief, Robin Bradley

Getting To The Root Of The Problems at Harley?

This is the time of year when Harley and Indian unveil their new models for the 12-months and years ahead. As has been the case in recent years, Harley has opted for a two part unveil strategy again.

The first part sees Harley running home to the paint booth it calls 'Mama' in an attempt to camouflage the paucity of its offer with pretty colors. I hope I am wrong, but from what I have been hearing for the past few months, Part Deux, slated for later in January, will just be fine-tuning of the present offer. Tinkering at the margins.

That early January news was mostly of returning models and paint jobs, which in theory leaves the field clear for a second stage of Harley's staggered model year announcement to 'wow' us all. But as far as I have been hearing it will mostly involve mods to existing platforms. It does not appear that it will involve entirely and fully new model concepts - just variations on existing themes - and certainly no new platform.

The irony is that Harley does have new platforms relatively readily available to them. As discussed last month their Chinese and Indian-made models are excellent 'for the money', they hit-the-sweet-spot of where the market's zeitgeist is at present, and they are outstanding doorswing bait.

The most recent news from Hero MotoCorp in India is of a second model on the X440 platform that, as expected would be the case, starts to make it look like an evolving portfolio - following the BMR R nineT and Ducati Scrambler playbooks in strategic terms at least. The Nightster X440  is a single of course, but it looks convincing and even with tariffs, imported into America would give the Royal Enfields, Triumphs, Hondas, Benellis, CFMoto and now, Indian Scout Sixty offerings of this world something to worry about in price-point and brand buy-in terms. 

"yes, I said that out loud"

Which brings me onto my primary 'compare and contrast'. In contrast to what Harley appears to be doing, the new unit vacuum that Harley's dealers have in terms of an offer below $15k bears no comparison with what Indian Motorcycle has just dropped.

Indian's re-imagined three model Scout Sixty lineup is absolutely the right product at the right time and being able to offer such Made-in-America design and build value is a lesson that Harley appears utterly immune to. It would appear that Harley is deaf to the message that the market is sending.

Starting at just $10k, the level of sophistication, ergonomics, electronics, creature comforts and technology these Scout Sixties are equipped with - as standard - is just off-the-scale.

Bear in mind that in terms of affordability, $10,000 isn't what it was even as recently as just four years ago. In real terms an equivalent to that price-point now might have been around $9,000 (at most) in 2022 or 2023, and although it didn't exist back then, the equivalent spec is comparable to bikes that would have cost twice as much. 

Of course, I'd love the whole world to be buying and riding zillions of lovely big fat V-twins at hugely inflated prices, then seeing their owners spending as much again on them in the first three years of ownership. 

But despite the 21st Century having dawned as a 'bright and shiny' thing 25 years ago, full of 'vim and vigour' with a horizon populated by the promise of ever-increasing sales, ever-increasing profits and an ever-increasing and ever-increasingly fun motorcycle industry to be a part of, the world neither feels or looks like that right now. 

Manufacturers like Harley, especially, need to get real. Arrogance has been at the root of KTM's problems, fuelling an imperious sense of self-worth and a deluded motorcycle industry world view.

Sad to say, Harley has now fallen back into much the same mindset that trapped it in the 'noughties'. Even if, in its case, reducing unit numbers was seen as the solution - whereas KTM's assumption was that if they made them, the people would come.

Two very different 'orange and black' stories but, alarmingly, two very similar potential outcomes. The details maybe different, and the motorcycles of both are great, to be fair, but both are in trouble regardless.

In 1998 Harley and KTM came within 48 hours or merging, or of KTM being bought out by Harley (depending on whose version of history you buy into) and now, fast forward little more than 25 years and you have two motorcycle businesses that could indeed end up on the same balance sheet - though now it could, possibly, be one that will be under Chinese ownership.

If anyone thinks I am being alarmist, yes, I am. I am quite deliberately exaggerating this as a possible outcome expressly because even if unlikely, it is still more likely that it should be - besides there are no Chinese manufacturers that would be foolish enough to buy both.

We'll know within a relatively short time frame just what future awaits KTM, but based on my reading, falling under Chinese (or other Asian) ownership is at least a 50/50 proposition.

In Harley's case it remains less possible, though the likelihood is growing. Surely the responsibility of any management team is to make such an outcome IMPOSSIBLE. In and of itself, whether or not Harley ends up as a Chinese-owned brand isn't actually the primary issue here. The primary issue is that there is any kind of hostile take-over danger at all.

Allowing that to be the case represents an egregious abrogation of primary responsibilities by any company management, but in Harley's case successive managements have utterly failed to understand fully the industry they are a part of, and to grasp the realities of the real-world circumstances in which its dealers are having to trade. Yes, I really did just say that, and out loud too. 

It is to be hoped that the promotion of CFO and former HDFS man Jonathan Root to President 'Commercial' is the start of a series of management changes that, whether or not destined to trigger a complete change at the top of Harley, will, either way and for sure, trigger a series of massive changes in direction.

News Briefs

The 39th Biker Fest International (an AMD Approved Custom Bike Show host event) is slated for May 15-18, 2025 at its traditional Lignano Sabbiadoro (Udine) venue on the Adriatic coast of northeastern Italy; www.bikerfest.it

Dynojet has signed up as a new title sponsor of the H-D factory race team for the 2025 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers road racing season. Dynojet joins a Harley team sponsor roster that includes Rockford Fosgate, Mission Foods, Brembo, Ohlins, Akrapovic, Protolabs, SYN3 lubricants and Sreamin' Eagle Performance Parts and Accessories.

MotoAmerica has confirmed that global powersports distributor Parts Unlimited will be the title sponsor of the new MotoAmerica Parts Unlimited Talent Cup. Designed to prepare young North American racers who have the desire and talent to compete on the world stage of MotoGP, the Championship will make its debut at the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas at COTA, March 28-30. 

Chennai, India based Royal Enfield reportedly sold 944,000 motorcycles in 2024, a +4.7% increase over 2023, making it the tenth largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world by unit volume. Originally a small arms manufacturer in 1893, Royal Enfield started making motorcycles at Redditch, England in 1901. Production ceased there in 1967, ending in England completely four years later but continuing as a manufacturer in India. Present owner Eicher acquired the brand in 1994.

December 19, 2024 saw the F1 owner Liberty Media's plan to additionally acquire Madrid, Spain based MotoGP and WorldSBK rights holder Dorna Sports S.L. entered a more detailed and in-depth EU Phase II investigation into its proposed takeover. As a result, all parties have had to agree to an extended review process. It had been quite apparent as long ago as April 2024, when the deal was first announced, that Liberty CEO Greg Maffei and his board were underestimating just how much scrutiny the plan, Liberty's history with the Formula 1 acquisition, and the less than robust status of the funding for the deal was likely to trigger.

Triumph has scored a nice piece of product placement with a vintage 1964 Bonneville T140 prominent as Dylan's 'Ride du Jour' in the critically acclaimed Bob Dylan BioPic "A Complete Unknown". The movie stars Timothée Chalamet as a young Bob Dylan. The period-specific T100 was sourced for the film, as a faithful representation of the bike Bob Dylan himself rode in his Greenwich Village years. Directed by James Mangold the movie delves into the transformative early years of Bob Dylan's career. The film captures Dylan's relationships with key figures such as Joan Baez, Woody Guthrie, and Pete Seeger, and explores the cultural movements that inspired his music. Though Oscar hype has cooled, the movie had been nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture.

Internationally recognised Italian helmet manufacturer Airoh has established an all-new Airoh USA facility and team. Dennis Bloch, affiliated with SEVEN MX, James Stewart's apparel company, is heading up the new distribution, marketing and sales teams in America. 

H-D has announced July 10-13, 2025, for the latest iteration of its (now) annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival. Musical acts Chris Stapleton and Hank Williams Jr are among artists slated to perform at the Veterans Park, Milwaukee event HQ.

Renowned race leather repair specialist Anthony's Leatherworks is to continue its sponsorship of MotoAmerica for a fifth straight season in 2025. With 25-years of experience, the Corona del Mar, California based craftsmen have become a trusted name in leather repair, alterations, and restoration services and is the preferred leather repair center for Dainese, Alpinestars, REV'IT!, Spidi, AGV Sport, Mithos, and its newest addition to the list of "authorized alterations partners", Bison.

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties - Over $75,000 Contingency For King Of The Baggers

The original backer of the Bagger Racing concept, as devised by Fred Fox and Rob Buydos, Drag Specialties is putting up over $75,000 in contingency cash prize payouts for the 2025 Mission King Of The Baggers season - its fourth straight year as a major backer of the MotoAmerica race series.

Drag Specialties' support has consistently represented over 65 percent of the available contingency prize fund and marks the distributor's ongoing commitment to "Support The Sport".

The program will pay the top five finishers, with first place earning $2,500. Second place will pay $1,200, third place receives $750, and fourth and fifth place finishers each take home $200. The 2025 Mission King Of The Baggers Champion will receive an extra $5,000 for winning the title.

The $75,700 total is an $8,500 increase over the 2024 program and includes a payout of $10,100 per race weekend for the seven-round, 14-race championship.

"Everyone loves MotoAmerica's Mission King Of The Baggers class, and we're excited to be a part of it for the fourth straight year," said Paul Langley, Chairman/CEO LeMans Corporation. "The on-track action is awesome, and there's a real buzz about the series as it continues to grow and get better and better. We're excited to get to Daytona for the first round."

Hylton Beattie, Global Motorsports Director for Drag Specialties, added, "Our V-twin customers are part of the same passionate customer base as MotoAmerica, and our growth in this market reinforces our sponsorship of the Mission King Of The Baggers."

www.dragspecialties.com

www.motoamerica.com

Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield Returns as AFT Official OEM Partner

Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, has confirmed the continuation of its partnership with Royal Enfield (RE) for the 2025 season. For the sixth consecutive year, Royal Enfield will serve as an Official OEM Partner of Progressive AFT. 

Additionally, the manufacturer will return as the event entitlement sponsor for the Royal Enfield Short Track at Daytona, scheduled for Thursday, March 6 and Friday, March 7, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

"Royal Enfield has been a key supporter of AFT since 2020, contributing to the growth and excitement of the series. The brand's involvement has been marked by achievements on and off the racetrack, including the development of the Twins FT racebike, which has showcased its competitiveness at the highest levels of the sport while fostering the growth of motorcycle dirt track racing in North America at a grassroots level."

Royal Enfield's "Build. Train. Race." (BTR) program will return to Progressive AFT events in 2025, kicking off with both days at the Royal Enfield Short Track at Daytona along with other select rounds in the season ahead. 

This initiative, which highlights and celebrates women in flat track racing, has become a cornerstone of Royal Enfield's involvement with the series. Utilizing customized Royal Enfield INT650 motorcycles, the program combines hands-on motorcycle preparation, skill development, and national-level competition.

www.royalenfield.com

www.americanflattrack.com

HardDrive

2025 HardDrive Catalog 

The Boise, Idaho based HardDrive V-twin parts and accessory distribution brand from WPS (Western Power Sports) has announced its new 2025 catalog.

"In a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, HardDrive remains driven to provide innovative brands and products to their global dealer network. The 2025 HardDrive catalog is in full swing with over 700+ new items that span across all product categories and can be viewed online or in print.

"HardDrive strives to bring its dealer network top quality service items, while holding a competitive market value and this year its expanded into carburetion, rear drive belts and mechanic service covers. The portfolio will continue to expand its vast variety of products and applications."

Krys Brown, Segment Director for V-Twin and Street at WPS said: "We are proud to announce our new exclusive partnership with Cerwin-Vega / Daimond Audio and excited to offer our dealer network an elite brand with decades of deep seeded roots within the audio industry. They’ve come to the market with a top-tier level of innovation that will be hard to compete with. 

"New to the family of brands this year are industry leaders such as Cobra USA and Wild-Ass Seat Cushions. Cobra brings years of experience with their classic designs and quality level that is second to none. Our 2025 catalog pages are filled with exhaust systems, slip-on mufflers, sissy bars, luggage racks and freeway bars. 

"The team over at Wild-Ass have taken the inflatable, medical grade seat cushion selection to a whole new level. They are passionate about bringing pure comfort to riders and if you hit a rally this year, please stop by and see them out there having fun and educating the masses." 

www.hdtwin.com 

Zodiac International

Zodiac International - Additions

Electric Bar Mount Speedo and Tacho combo

This programmable electronic instrument with tacho shows speed, total distance and trips, in miles or km. It includes warning lights, fuel level indicator, clock, gear position, voltmeter, selectable backlight color and intensity. 

It fits 2004-2013 Sportster, 2008-2010 FXCW & FXCWC and 2004-2011 Dyna with fork mounted speedo. There is a choice of black or gray face.

RSD M-8 Sector Cam Cover

Featuring precision machined detailing to complement the design of the engine, the lower portion of this cam cover is low profile to ensure exhaust clearance. The specialty black coating does not allow oil and grease to adhere, and a proprietary abrasion and UV resistant film protects the surface from yellowing, marring or breakage. 

All mounting hardware and gasket is included. It fits 107 and 114 CI in Touring 2017 to present, 2018-2023 117 CI Touring, all 2017 to present Trikes and all 2018 and up Softails.

RSD Sector Risers 

Available for 1 1/8" handlebars, the RSD Sector Rider System is an "innovative solution for riders looking to elevate comfort and control by dialing in their choice of hand controls position. Machined from 6061 Aluminum with a black anodized finish, they are available with individual or one-piece top bar clamps with a 1 1/8" (28.6mm) bar clamp size. Black stainless riser system hardware is included. 

Designed, engineered, and manufactured in Long Beach, California, they fit any H-D with 3 1/2" on-center riser holes in the triple tree. Riser bolts are not included. The one- and two-piece clamps are both available in 2" (5.1cm), 3" (7.6cm), 5" (12.7cm), 8" (20.3cm) and 10" (25.4cm) rise; 6" (15.2cm) and 12" (30.5cm) rise available as one-piece top clamps only. Instrument housing kits are available for select Touring and Softail applications, details on request.

PM Drifter Floorboards

These slim Drifter floorboards bolt right up to the factory locations to enhance ground clearance while retaining the convenience of using OEM brackets. Machined from billet aluminum and coated with PM's proprietary two-tone Black OPS, they match Harley's stock black engine finish. They are available for a wide range of Touring, Softail and Trike models, 1980 and up.

S&S M-8 Billet Fuel Rail

These replacements for the crack-prone plastic OEM rails offer a durable and performance fuel delivery solution. Crafted from premium grade 6061 aluminum and finished with a sleek black anodized coating, "this fuel rail is built to last. Its direct replacement design ensures a seamless fit, eliminating worries about the cracks and leaks commonly associated with the plastic OEM rails." 

They also offer increased fuel capacity to dampen fuel pulses, resulting in smoother engine operation and improved performance - enhanced fuel flow means optimized fuel delivery for maximum power output. Fits all 107 and 114 CI Touring 2017 to present, all 117 CI Touring 2017-2023, all Trike 2017 to present and all Softail 2018 to present.

Tuck & Roll Spring Solo Seats

This black vinyl covered solo seat has a steel base. It features two 5/16"-24 UNF threaded inserts in the rear to mount it on the seat springs, with two front inserts to mount the seat on the seat hinge. Mount kit or springs and seat hinge must be ordered separately. It is available in small, 10" (25 cm) wide and 11 1/2" (28 cm) long, or large 11 1/2" (28 cm) long and wide.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV

www.zodiac.nl

American Prime Manufacturing

It's All About Control, Right?

American Prime Manufacturing (Santa Fe Springs, California) says it has its "almost world famous" mini handlebar controls back in stock - "they sell so fast, it's frankly exhausting trying to keep them in stock," says company President and industry veteran Ben Kudon.

"These controls are small in size, but very large in stature." They come in 9/16", 11/16" and 7/16" master cylinder bores for all types of different applications. Also available in show chrome, polished or black powder-coated finish. Features a sight glass in the master cylinder for visual inspection of the amount of brake fluid, and every kit includes a mirror stem.

"Whether you're building a minimalist chopper, old school sled or a bobber, these controls will definitely round out the look," says Ben.

AMERICAN PRIME MANUFACTURING

www.americanprimemfginc.com

Two Brothers Racing

TBR 2-1 Chief and Challenger Options

With over 40 years of experience in the motorcycle industry and inspired by its deep-rooted racing heritage, Riverside, California based Two Brothers Racing has a choice of three 2-into-1 full system performance exhaust options for Indian Chief and Challenger models.

Comp-S

Megaphone Gen II 

With 100% stainless steel construction Two Brothers Racing (TBR) say they are "designed for maximum torque and increased horsepower" and deliver an impressive 24 lbs weight saving - that is 10 lb lighter than the 34 lb stock exhausts that they replace and upgrade.

Shorty Turnout

The three 2-into-1 design options are the Comp-S, Megaphone Gen II and Shorty Turnout. The TBR designs includes stainless steel heat shields, accept the stock O2 sensor, are fully hand TIG welded and available in stainless or Ceramic Black finish, with steel or carbon fiber end-caps on the Comp-S and Shorty Turnout.

TWO BROTHERS RACING

www.twobros.com