American Flat Track

2026 AFT Schedule

A sixteen-round AFT season in 2026 will usher in an expanded class structure, a "rebuilt amateur-to-pro talent ladder, and new marquee events as AFT realigns with modern Class C principles.

"Fresh off one of the most compelling Grand National Championships in recent memory, the series is leaning into what made the '25 campaign great and building upon that momentum via some spectacular additions, including new events, venues, classes, and initiatives." 

The 2026 season will again launch with a string of five successive Short Tracks. The run begins during DAYTONA Bike Week with the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA, back-to-back nights of AFT Nationals at Daytona International Speedway, with the opening round on Thursday, March 5.  

"However, the excitement actually arrives in earnest a day earlier, with the launch of the Road to AFT and the first of seven Mission Foods CTR Showcase Events held in conjunction with American Flat Track Nationals."

Operated by Cory Texter Race Promotions, these AMA-sanctioned events will showcase amateur flat track racing on the day prior to select Progressive AFT Nationals. This strategic alliance around the Road to AFT will anchor the sport's talent pipeline in premium amateur racing events "and provide a clear path from amateur to pro competition."

The AFT AdventureTrackers class returns with an expanded slate for 2026. The quick success of the production-based class found immediate support from motorcycle manufacturers and paved the way for an all-new category: AFT StreetTrackers. "Built around lightly-modified, production-based twin-, triple-, and four-cylinder motorcycles, the new class draws inspiration from the sport's Class C roots by creating a clear, retail-connected platform for motorcycle manufacturers and dealers to re-engage with the sport." 

Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing is quoted as saying: "These additions are intended to realign the sport with the core principles that powered the growth and success of the Grand National Championship for decades. The Road to AFT reestablishes the critical link between amateur and pro, reinvigorating the feeder system for the professional ranks. The introduction of AFT StreetTrackers will open marketing lanes for the motorcycle industry to invest in the sport with clear, measurable ROI. The 2026 schedule will be a showcase for what the sport truly is: the authentic American motorcycle racing product built on Class C values: approachability, availability and affordability." 

Along with the series' annual stops at such storied events as the Lima Half-Mile and the 79th Peoria TT, the 2026 calendar includes a pair of novel entries. On Saturday, May 16, the fabled Budds Creek Motocross Park in Mechanicsville, Maryland, will host ThrottleFest, a "combined moto-and-music festival with four days of motorcycle racing. Featuring pro-am hair scrambles, motocross, endurocross, pit bike racing and Progressive American Flat Track headlining the show, ThrottleFest will set a new gold standard in two-wheel entertainment." 

On Saturday, June 6, the series makes its long-awaited return to Tennessee with the inaugural Nashville Short Track at Billy Lane's Tennessee National Raceway. The event will also host the public debut of the Northern Tool + Equipment Legends Build: Student Challenge motorcycle - a nine-month project where high school CTE students are transforming a 2025 Harley-Davidson Nightster into an XR750-inspired flat track racer under the mentorship of Scott Parker, Chris Carr, Kenny Coolbeth Jr., Billy Lane, and other icons of the sport. 

The Triple Challenge - AFT's escalating endurance and points-intensity format - returns after its 2025 debut. The format will be featured at the opening night of the Lima Half-Mile doubleheader on Friday, June 26, and again at Springfield Mile I on Saturday, September 5. Each race increases in distance, difficulty, and points value, testing riders' race-craft and stamina. 

The Springfield Mile Doubleheader on Saturday, September 5 and Sunday, September 6, will again close the season, restoring the sport's crown jewel as the decisive weekend for the Grand National Championship. 

www.americanflattrack.com

Indian Motorcycle

Indian Motorcycle MY2026

In what will be the last model year update under Polaris' ownership, and in what is a return to the conventional 'Fall' model year update timing, the headline news is of a new Sport Scout RT, fresh paint/graphics and a bunch of new accessories "across its cruiser, bagger and touring lineup."

Aaron Jax, the present Vice President of Indian Motorcycle is quoted as saying that "Scout is a market-leading, globally recognized icon, and with the debut of the Sport Scout RT, we're redefining what it means to ride an Indian Scout." 

"Through a host of new updates across the lineup, we're not just holding our ground as the best cruiser on the road - we're raising the bar by offering riders around the world an unrivaled way to experience the open road."

The Sport RT addition to the Scout line-up gets the same 1,250 cc, 60-degree liquid-cooled, 105 hp 60-degree V-twin engine as used in the 2025 Scout Classic, Bobber and existing Sport Scout," tucked into a next-generation steel tube frame."

Described as "featuring a modern design and adding a more aggressive and capable spirit to the Scout lineup" it features a host of accessories, including locking rigid saddlebags with over 10 gallons of weatherproof storage that are capable of fitting an entire set of riding gear, including boots, pants, a jacket and gloves." 

Additional features include gloss black 5.5-inch moto style risers with machine highlights, machined triple trees, moto handlebars and 19-inch front wheel. US MRSP starts at $16,999.

The 2026 Indian Motorcycle accessory catalog offers a "curated" range of accessories for "added comfort, expanded storage, and enhanced audio." The Indian Scout lineup "introduces new ergonomic, audio and storage options alongside a full category of new accessories for 2026 including PowerBand Audio Bluetooth Speaker, the locking rigid saddlebags used on the RT, adjustable brake and clutch levers by Gilles Tooling and 8" pullback handlebar risers.

New Indian Chief accessories include two-up, two-tone high bolster seat, 'Syndicate' reduced reach seat, 2" pullback handlebars, the 8" pullback risers, and 'Spirit Lake' branded liner travel and trunk saddlebag bags, and sissy bar or back rest attachable wheeled touring bag. 

www.indianmotorcycle.com

Cardo Systems

Cardo BEYOND - Carbon Full-Face with Integrated Comms

Cardo Systems has launched BEYOND GTS and BEYOND GT, the brand's first-ever DOT and ECE 22.06 certified fully integrated motorcycle helmets. 

The BEYOND line of helmets "deliver the convergence of two decades of innovation in rider connectivity and four years of R&D, focused on creating the most advanced integrated helmet on the market. More than just a helmet, Cardo BEYOND delivers a new generation riding companion engineered to protect, connect and elevate every ride."

BEYOND GTS

Cardo claims that the BEYOND helmets debuts the world's first 53 mm helmet speakers, "precision tuned by Cardo Sound Labs for unmatched clarity and power".

BEYOND GTS features a lightweight carbon fibre shell paired with a multi-density EPS liner, extensive wind-tunnel-tested aerodynamics and a precision ventilation system that reduces fatigue and keeps visibility clear in any weather.

The big news though is the "powerful communications suite" built into the helmet, with "Cardo's Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) technology, 2 km intercom range, Bluetooth integration, and hands-free voice control and integrated Crash Detection alert function.

BEYOND GT

Additional rider-centric enhancements include retractable sun visor, Auto On/Off functionality, replaceable battery and serviceable components, upgradeable tech package, moisture-wicking premium fabrics, motorcycle specific Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, a 1000mA battery and Pinlock 120XLT anti-fog lens.

The BEYOND GT maintains most of the same or similar features and tech but in a lightweight fibreglass shell equipped with a rear reflector for enhanced visibility. BEYOND GT retains compatibility with comfort padding for long-lasting rideability. It's a "smart choice for riders who want the full experience of integrated safety and communication without compromise".

The BEYOND GTS and GT are slated to be available in summer 2026.

CARDO SYSTEMS

www.cardosystems.com

2026 WorldWCR

Provisional 2026 WorldWCR schedule

The provisional calendar for the 2026 third season of FIM Women's Circuit Racing World Championship has six rounds and in the interests of 'spreading the gospel' continues to rotate venues to reach new fans. 

True to its goal of showcasing women's racing on the world stage, for 2026, two iconic circuits rejoin the schedule, returning to host WorldWCR after featuring in the inaugural season - adding fresh challenges for the riders and new stories for fans to follow. The pioneering single-make series features the Yamaha R7.

The season gets underway at the rollercoaster Autodromo Internacional do Algarve on the 27-29 March, one of two returning venues on the calendar. After Portimao, the Championship heads to the historic TT Circuit Assen on the 17-19 April. The visit to Hungary has an earlier date this season, across the 1-3 May, at the Balaton Park Circuit.

Then it's time for a trip to Italy as the Misano World Circuit "Marco Simoncelli" hosts WorldWCR again, which returns to the calendar for 2026, before Donnington Park in the UK from the 10-12 July. The season concludes at the Circuito de Jerez - Angel Nieto from the 16-18 October.

Easyriders Magazine

Easyriders Magazine Acquired by Former Editor Keith Randall Ball

Former Editor-in-Chief and Editorial Director Keith R. Ball has acquired Easyriders Magazine, the legendary "voice of biker culture", and plans to bring the iconic publication back to prominence in the motorcycle riding community. 

In September 2025, Ellen Teresi, widow of publisher Joe Teresi, signed over the magazine's rights, trademarks, and archives to Ball in a moving ceremony at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum.

For decades, Easyriders Magazine defined the freedom, rebellion, and outlaw spirit of the open road. In recent years, the magazine struggled through publishing shifts before being reclaimed by Joe Teresi, who passed away in April of this year.

'Brand HQ to Move to Main Street in Sturgis'

Ball, an accomplished writer, editor, builder, Bonneville racer, and author, intends to re-establish Easyriders as the definitive voice of custom motorcycling. He is also the owner and publisher of Bandit's Bikernet (www.bikernet.com), a news and entertainment site targeting the biker audience.

"Easyriders connected the world to the biker lifestyle for hundreds of thousands of readers," said Ball. "It created admiration for custom-built motorcycles and brought the craft of bike building into the homes and shops of riders everywhere."

The new headquarters now stand on historic Main Street in downtown Sturgis, SD, near the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame. Ball, a longtime officer and committee chairman, continues to serve, volunteer, and reside on numerous Sturgis Museum boards and committees.

Ball previously worked with Ellen Teresi and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum to deliver the Easyriders Streamliner to the Museum - forever the fastest Harley-Davidson on the planet. The signing ceremony for the transfer of ownership featured a historic gathering of Streamliner crew members, past Easyriders staff, museum board members, and local riders celebrating both the Streamliner legacy and its new exhibit.

"In recent years, the audience changed, and the print magazine business faced the impact of the internet and digital technology," Ball continued. "We'll embrace today's riders while celebrating the past - delivering spectacular content in print, online, and on YouTube for those who love freedom, getting their hands dirty, and chasing the adventure of the open road."

Founded in 1970, the Easyriders brand is more than a magazine. Ball intends to relaunch the brand as a global lifestyle powerhouse through publishing, merchandise, licensing, events, partnerships, and immersive experiences for riders around the world.

AMD Comment – Hurrah! Big fat Hurrah with bells on!!

S&S Cycle

S&S Cycle – Passing of Tim Osterberg

The end of October saw S&S Cycle regretfully announcing the passing of Tim Osterberg on October 28. Tim started with S&S Cycle in November of 2021 as Vice President of New Product Development & Methods and in that role made significant contributions to new and current products. 

Tim was a leader, serving on the S&S Senior Management Team and as a mentor to many of the engineers in Product Development and Core Product Engineering. His long-standing involvement with the motorcycle industry made him an incredible asset to the departments he worked within. 

While suffering with cancer, Tim would show up in the office or on video calls to ensure his team was being supported, his dedication was apparent to all he connected with. 

"I had the pleasure of collaborating with Tim over the past several years and he was dedicated to his passion of product development through his last moments.  As recently as last week he was fully engaged in strategic planning conversations," said Brett Smith, who then said: "Tim will leave an indelible mark on S&S through his efforts to create new opportunities for the company - many of which will come to fruition in the next 12-18 months."  

Before passing, he actively identified a potential successor, Scott Cain. Tim will be sorely missed not only by the S&S team and family, but also by the many others' lives touched throughout his time on Earth.

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties Partners with Gilles Tooling 

­Parts Europe has announced an exclusive collaboration between Drag Specialties and noted Luxemburg based parts and accessories manufacturer Gilles Tooling for a new advanced ergonomics P&A line with. 

An all-new collection of premium motorcycle components created for the latest Harley-Davidson models, "this collaboration brings together two respected industry leaders and combines Drag Specialties' strong presence in the V-Twin aftermarket with Gilles Tooling's engineering expertise."

Among the newly launched products, the adjustable floorboard allows easy adjustment ensuring an optimized ergonomic position for any kind of journey. Crafted from CNC-milled 6082 T6 aluminum, the construction delivers "exceptional strength and durability while maintaining a refined, high-quality appearance. It features a replaceable peg slider for extended product life.

"The mirror is designed with clean lines for optimal functionality. It offers a clear, wide field of vision with a long stem for an ideal balance of reach, stability and excellent positioning across various riding setups."

Known for being the strongest of the 6000 series aluminum alloys (thanks to its manganese content), 6082 is an engineering 'go-to' alloy for highly stressed, heavy duty industrial use (such as bridges, trusses, and transport applications). 

"Every piece in this new premium range is FEM-optimized (Finite Element Analysis) for a collection of rider-focused upgrades that offer fully Adjustable Designs, pre-assembled kits, European Homologation and choice of sleek Black or a bold Black/Gold finish."

The floorboard is adjustable in height, width and length; the kit includes shift and brake levers and ships pre-assembled. The brake arms pad length is adjustable in 3 positions with the height adjustable in 3 flat angles; the double ball bearing design eliminates free play. Additional options include heel/toe shifter arms. 

www.dragspecialties.com

www.gillestooling.com

Arlen Ness

Clear Air

These new Method Carbon oval intakes from Arlen Ness feature an oval shaped carbon fiber cover and an open-faced filter design for increased performance by bringing in air from all directions.

The low-profile design improves legroom, and a specially coated clear polycarbonate top adds a performance look by showcasing the advanced, washable and re-usable, black, pre-oiled high flow pleated perimeter performance air filter. 

Stage 2

The radius design backing plate is engineered for horsepower and torque through unobstructed airflow. Each kit includes the backing plate assembly, air filter, carbon fiber outer cover assembly, and necessary hardware. The filter cover and spacers are all CNC machined from billet aluminum.

The finish is in carbon fiber and black anodize. and fitment includes 24-25 Touring and 25 Softail, 2017-2023 M8 Engines, 08-16 FLT and 16-17 FBW models and 00-17 Twin Cam.

ARLEN NESS ENTERPRISES

www.arlenness.com