Drag Specialties/Parts Unlimited NVP Product Expo
Louisville, KY, January 24-25, 2026
With 140,000 sq ft of exhibit space, plus Vendor Education Sessions space for dealers and sales reps, this annual event coincided with the 'Snowmageddon' that stormed its way across the south and up the east coast the same weekend.
Yes, the result was a somewhat lower dealer (and exhibiting vendor) head count than expected, but it did not supress attendance enough to dampen the enthusiasm of all those who did make it to Louisville.
Vendors talked about the visitors they met as being serious about speaking with them, asking all the right questions and being seriously interested in the products displayed and show offers available.
In fact, personally I didn't hear a single complaint about the attendance. The overwhelming sentiment of was of appreciation for the extra time vendors were able to spend with dealers and Drag Specialties reps and buyers.
The performance of the market in 2025 and likely business levels for the year ahead were primary topics of conversation and concern, but most were sanguine about their prospects. The answers to my informal, verbal and entirely unscientific survey appeared to suggest a median 2025 market performance outcome among Drag Specialties Dealers at around 17-23 percent down. There were some who reported worse, but some too who still saw growth.
"You make your own luck in this kind of market," one stated and "people still want to ride and enjoy their motorcycles," said another. In which connection, service items and wear and tear based replacement and upgrade components appear to still be selling well - and that is always a 'tell'.
Of note, any Drag Specialties dealers who have not yet checked out what the new LeMans Dealer Academy could hold for them should do so. Down the years many vendors (manufacturers/brand owners and distributors) have invested in such programs but early results from an H2 2025 Beta Test suggest that the LeMans formula has the concept nailed.
Bagger Racing League: The 2026 Bagger Racing Schedule kicks-off a pair of 'double headers' on May 23-24 at the Motorsport Park Hastings in Nebraska. Round three and four will then be at the Gingerman Raceway, South Haven, Michigan on June 27-28. July 25 (Round 5) then sees a repeat of the AMA Bagger Championship at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (Super-Street Bagger, Pro-Stock Bagger and Bagger GP). The final two round will again be at the Las Vegas Speedway (October 17-18, Rounds 6 & 7) which, having been a replacement date and venue in 2025 for the Willow Springs race in California turned out to the surprise package last year with great crowds and even greater enthusiasm "roar of the Big Boys"; www.baggerracingleague.com
DP Brakes & Clutches: The DP brake pads brand is unique in the motorcycle industry as the only aftermarket manufacturer focusing exclusively on developing and producing sintered metal brake pads. Sponsor of the Liquid Twins Class in the BRL Bagger Racing Championship, DP pads are available as OE replacements and upgrades - a complete product line offers fitments for every riding application, including racing, sport, touring, and cruising; www.dp-brakes.com
Drag Seats: The Minnesota based manufacturer's Predator III line of two-ups are designed for H-D Touring (2008-2024) and Softail (2018-2026) models. Features include a 3/16" ABS thermoformed base, molded polyurethane foam, and a 6"-7" tall driver support and auto grade vinyl. Options include smooth, double diamond stitch and forward-positioning styles - manufacturing since 1972 "other colors are available"; www.dragspecialties.com
Vance & Hines: Full exhaust systems for the newly independent Californian manufacturer in 2026 include 304 stainless steel mid-length Supersport 2-1s, short length Hand Tig Welded Hi-Output RRs, 2-1, stainless 2-1 Hi Outputs with laser etched logo badge and their popular Big Radius 2-2 with full coverage heatshields. Described as "more than a tuner", check out the latest generation of Vance & Hines FP4 technology - the FPX - this latest iteration engine management program iteration is "the future of connected riding. With seamless tuning, real-time engine data, smart navigation, and built-in safety features"; www.vanceandhines.com
SBS Friction: The Danish Brake components manufacturer has 'stepped' up to add horsepower to its US sales and dealer support operations with the appointment of Angel June Hacker as Aftermarket Sales Manager for North America. "Hacker brings extensive experience from the powersports retail and dealership landscape, giving her a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing today's motorcycle businesses." Her role will include onboarding of dealerships into the SBS Brake Academy, helping shops position themselves as specialized brake experts; www.sbsbrakes.com
