AFT Race Series

Mees in Springfield Mile Win Double

Defending AFT Twins presented by Vance & Hines Champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) made it four for four in AFT Mile competition in 2019 when he scooped fiercely contested wins in both the season's Springfield Mile Labor Day weekend races at the Illinois State Fairgrounds on August 31st and September 2nd.

His last-corner 0.239 second victory in the Springfield Mile I saw him see off the 2018 Springfield Mile I winner Jeffrey Carver Jr. (No. 23 Roof Systems of Dallas/Indian of Metro Milwaukee FTR750), following a two-rider duel for the win from the start. The pair immediately broke free from the pack at the start and subsequently waged a 25-mile test of skill and tactics.

Mees Overcomes Carver in Springfield Mile I shootout

Championship leader Briar Bauman (No. 14 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) finished in third 0.122 seconds ahead of brother/teammate Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) in fourth, and Bryan Smith (No. 4 Crosley Brands/Howerton Motorsports Kawasaki Ninja 650) finished fifth.
In the AFT Production Twins, fresh off his clutch victory in the previous night's Springfield Short Track Singles, Dalton Gauthier (No. 122 Black Hills Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X) steamrolled the competition for a second successive class win, with Kolby Carlile (No. 136 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07) second and Lima Half-Mile winner Chad Cose (No. 49 Parkinson Bros Racing/Ritchie Reynolds Kawasaki Ninja 650) third.
Second ranked Ryan Varnes (No. 68 Varnes Racing/RoyBuilt Kawasaki Ninja 650) took fourth by 0.002 seconds from fifth placed Kevin Stollings (No. 999 Roof Systems/Motion Pro/Hinson Clutches Kawasaki Ninja 650).
Two nights later (after a 24-hour weather delay) Mees won a final lap dash for the checkered flag in a Springfield Mile II thriller that saw ten riders in contention for victory at the final corner. The multi-time defending AFT Twins Champion had started in last position from Row 4 following bike issues in his Semi and in the end outlasted title rival Briar Bauman (No. 14 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) by just 0.083 seconds for the 14th Mile win of Mees, tying him with Jay Springsteen for sixth all-time on the big tracks. It also brought him within a single race of Bauman in the evolving 2019 AFT Twins championship race, as he's now just 25 points back (280-255) heading into the season's final three races.

Mees stuns in Springfield Mile II thriller

Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) came through in third to lock out the podium for the Indian Wrecking Crew for the first time in 2019. In a race that saw the entire top ten finishing within 0.653 seconds of the win, Rookie Brandon Price (No. 192 Roof Systems of Dallas TX/DPC Racing Indian FTR750) took fourth, with Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Kennedy Racing/Armbruster Racing Indian FTR750) fifth.
Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Harley-Davidson Factory Flat Track Team XG750R Rev X) was sixth, with factory Harley-Davidson teammate Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Harley-Davidson Factory Flat Track Team XG750R Rev X) eight, with Henry Wiles seventh (No. 17 Bandit Industries/DPC Racing/Wilco Racing Indian FTR750). Davis Fisher (No. 67 Bob Lanphere Beaverton Motorcycles/Dick Wall 60 Indian FTR750) and Jeffrey Carver Jr. (No. 23 Roof Systems of Dallas/Indian of Metro Milwaukee FTR750) rounded out the top ten.
With three rounds to go, Briar Bauman (4 wins) heads Jared Mees (6 wins) by 25 points, with Bronson Bauman (1 win) 40 points behind Mees, but 31 points ahead of fourth placed Jeffrey Carver Jr., with Brandon Robinson currently 5th in the championship standings to give the FTR750 a top five lock-out at this stage, with the Indian Wrecking Crew teammates populating a potential top three sweep for Indian Motorcycle Racing.
Having already wrapped up a third consecutive Manufacturer's Championship this year, team operations for the Bauman brothers have been masterminded by S&S Cycle President Paul Langley, with Dave Zanotti as their crew chief, Kenny Tolbert as Mees' crew chief and Dean Young as Wrecking Crew team manager.
In the second 15-lap AFT Production Twins class race of the weekend, Kolby Carlile (No. 136 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07) materialized from the pack late to claim his first-career AFT Production Twins Main Event victory in dramatic fashion.
In a race that saw a restart for Dalton Gauthier (No. 122 Black Hills Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X), who had to start on the back row when his bike expired in his Semi having mechanical problems again with three laps to go, teammate James Rispoli (No. 71 Black Hills Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X) took second just 0.111 seconds behind Carlile.
Cody Johncox (No. 196 Sunnyside Cycle/Luczak Racin' Yamaha MT-07) was next in line in a pack of riders that saw five men take the checkered flag within 0.554 seconds of the win. He finished 0.082 seconds behind Rispoli to complete the podium, with Cory Texter (No. 65 G&G Racing/Holeshot Powersports Yamaha MT-07) fourth and Morgen Mischler (DPC Racing, Racing Unlimited     Kawasaki Ninja 650) fifth. Texter's advantage has now been reduced to 23 points (148-125) over Carlile with three races remaining.
The quest for all three American Flat Track championships resumes in less than a week's time with the Williams Grove Half-Mile presented by Appalachian Harley-Davidson in Mechanicsburg, Pa., on Saturday, September 7.
The series then heads for the Minnesota Half-Mile at Minneapolis on September 21st before the season's finale a week later at East Rutherford, NJ., with the Meadowlands Mile on September 28.
www.americanflattrack.com

Photos: Scott Hunter/American Flat Track

AIMExpo, Cycle Volta E-Pavilion

Cycle Volta E-Pavilion to Power AIMExpo’s Electric Footprint 

Columbus, Ohio, September 26 - 29

Bonnier Motorcycle Group and the MIC have teamed up to create the Cycle Volta E-Pavilion, a dedicated area at AIMExpo presented by Nationwide for all electric two-wheelers, from bicycles to motorcycles.

Cycle Volta is Bonnier's recently established media brand, and in conjunction with AIMExpo’s three newly-minted neighborhoods (The Shop, The Alley and The Camp) will showcase the culture, lifestyle and experiences that affect users' buying decisions through major market segments.
The Cycle Volta pavilion will feature vendor booths, test rides and TED-style talks on how e-bike riders can become new motorcycle enthusiasts. Media and industry dignitaries are also invited to an exciting after-hours e-bike dirt race on Friday, September 27, hosted by Bonnier Motorcycle Group and AIMExpo.
"With the evolution of electric-powered bicycles and more powersports manufacturers entering the e-bike arena, more retailers are looking to add e-bikes to their showrooms," said Andre Albert, Director Sales and Marketing, MIC Events.
"These products create an opportunity to introduce new riders to powersports and are creating a positive impact on the greater powersports industry. It makes sense that our show evolves to showcase this new and growing segment of the market," Albert said.
Cycle Volta (cyclevolta.com) is a new digital, video and social media brand established by Bonnier Motorcycle Group "to cover the freedom and fun of the e-bike, micro-mobility and the electric motorcycle landscape."

Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles Returns to AIMExpo

Scotts Valley, California based electric motorcycle manufacturer Zero has announced that it is to exhibit at AIMExpo, Columbus, Ohio, September 26 - 29.
On show will be 2019 additions to its line-up, including the "Fully Smart2 Zero SR/F" - the well-received take on streetfighter styling on an electric powerplant platform with a 3 kw rapid charger that starts at $18,995.00.

At the time of its launch earlier this year Zero described the SR/F as its "most innovative and powerful" motorcycle yet, incorporating a "revolutionary" new operating system - Cypher III - and delivering 40 ft-lbs of torque and 110 horsepower." Powered by Zero's ZF75-10 motor and ZF14.4 lithium-ion battery, a single charge is said to give riders up to a 200-mile range with the addition of Zero's Power Tank (available fall 2019). The Rapid Charge System works on Level 2 charge stations and provides a platform that allows for up to three independent charging modules, with charge from 0 to 95 percent capacity in one hour.

"We're thrilled to be showcasing the 2020 Zero Motorcycles product line at AIMExpo in September," said Sam Paschel, CEO, Zero Motorcycles. "AIMExpo attracts the most influential and successful powersports dealers in North America, and we're fortunate to count many of our most valued business partners among those who will be in attendance."
Since 2006, Zero Motorcycles has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers of electric motorcycles and has built a "thriving business with a global supply chain and extensive distribution network. Utilizing the most powerful and energy-dense EV technology in the powersports industry, these powerplants provide riders with an effortless delivery of power while reducing the emissions."

Zero's range also includes the off-road Zero FX, the stealthy Supermoto FXS, the naked street Zero S and SR, and the versatile DS and DSR.
"As the powersports industry introduces more alternative-powered vehicles to the market, it is one of AIMExpo's top priorities to showcase these products and highlight the latest innovations within the industry for dealers and consumers," said Andre Albert, Director, Sales and Marketing, MIC Events. "Electric motorcycles are not just an evolution of the current market, but also represent the opportunity to reach potential new buyers."
Ironically, just as Harley is finally launching its 'Livewire', at the time of writing Harley-Davidson had not announced an intention to exhibit at AIMExpo despite having supported the show at Columbus, Ohio, in the heartland of its core market, in 2017 and Las Vegas in 2018.
zeromotorcycles.com

zeromotorcycles.com

AIMExpo

AIMExpo Dealer Seminars

The Powersports Dealer Seminars at AIMExpo "are designed as a great benefit for dealership owners and staff attending September's big show in Columbus, Ohio" (September 26 - 29).
"The theme of this year’s show is 'Together We Rise,' and we're taking that same approach to providing dealerships with the type of educational training that can simply help them grow as they return to their businesses," said Powersports Business Editor-in-Chief Dave McMahon, who has strategically formulated the presentation line-up for the seventh straight year. 

All of the sessions will run during the exclusive trade days on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27 (the consumer portion of the show runs Saturday and Sunday). Dealers may choose whichever sessions they would like to attend, and attendance is free for registered dealers thanks to a number of industry sponsors. 

The curriculum, with 18 interactive and instructive sessions, was developed to improve the powersports retail business model across three key tracks: sales and marketing, sponsored by Torque Group; powering profits, sponsored by Aegis Powersports; and leadership plus, sponsored by McGraw Powersports Western Service Contract. The premier seminar sponsors are National Powersport Auctions and Synchrony.
Returning to the seminar line-up for 2019 are the Dealer Roundtables. Scheduled just before the show's general session on Thursday afternoon, the roundtables allow dealers to collaborate with their peers about challenges they face as operators. Multiple 30-minute discussions on various topics will run concurrently, allowing dealers to take advantage of knowledge and experience from a number of industry colleagues.
To address the evolving marketplace, completely new subject matter is being added, such as an ROI vs ROE seminar - how customer experience will soon overtake price and product as the key brand differentiator.

Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties Additions

Engine Oil Spout Kits

This engine oil spout kit features a custom oil spout design for selected Touring models that allows the use of any starter (provided it will clear the frame) as well as any style bearing door and side cover on the market - a must-have when using aftermarket hydraulic clutch actuators. Constructed of 6061-T6 billet aluminum, the kit features a one-piece dipstick that threads in, eliminating dipstick blowout on acceleration. The kits are available for '99-'01 H-D FLHT/FLHR/FLHX/FLTR in show chrome or black.   

Low-Profile Solo Seats

Drag Specialties Seats now offers a double diamond pattern for its popular low-profile seats. Featuring solar-reflective leather in the seating area and automotive-grade vinyl on the sides, this patented process is said to reduce surface temperature by as much as 25°F for a cooler seat, higher durability and longer life over conventional leather or vinyl. Underneath is a flexible urethane foam interior to provide maximum comfort. The 3/16" ABS thermoformed seat base has a carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers; a handy EZ-Mount system requires no tools for taking seat on and off. Seat geometry places the rider 2" further back and up to 1" lower (depending on model) than the stock seat for a better rider position and improved styling. The seat also covers the two seat fender studs for a low, clean look. Can be used with Drag Specialties solo rear seats (sold separately) and includes mounting hardware. Available with choice of black or silver double-diamond stitching for '97-'07 FLHR and '06-'07 FLHX H-D models.

Crank Position Sensors

A crank sensor is critical to a bike’s performance because it monitors the rotational speed and position of the crankshaft, passing that information to the EFI management control, and Drag has added two new crank position sensors to its line. A failing or non-functional sensor could create engine performance problems, even leading to engine damage. These high-quality Drag Specialties crank position sensors are now available for '04-'05 and '10-'12 XL, replacing OEM #32804-04B and for '95-'98 FLHT/FLHR/FLTR, replacing OEM #32447-95.

Solid Primary Sprocket Kit

This solid primary sprocket kit has a springless design that is much quieter and smoother than stock compensators or diaphragm spring-style compensators; it eliminates the need for a complete compensator assembly. The 34-tooth sprocket features a sturdy, solid steel one-piece design and includes washer, spacer and instructions; it retains and uses the stock installation bolt. Available for '17-'19 FLHT/FLHR/FLHX/FLTRX/FLTRU and '18-'19 FLHC/FLDE/FLSB/FLSL/FXBB/FXFB/FXLR models.

4" OEM Electronic Tachometers

This high-quality plug-n-play OE replacement tachometer features a 0-80 RPM x 100 scale and redline indicator. It is design-matched to Drag Specialties' line of 4" speedometers to keep the same great look across all gauges. Available with choice of black or white dial face for '04-'13 FLHT/FLHR, '04-'11 FXD/FXDL and '04-'13 XL models.

DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com

Biltwell

Biltwell "Problem Solvers"

New in what Californian parts-to-G&A specialist Biltwell describes as its "Problem Solver" series, this new billet dash panel provides a home for the digital module on 2018 and up M-8 Softail models such as the Street Bob and Super Glide. 

CNC machined from T-6 aluminum, the included reducer shims allow use on 1" or 1.25" upright handlebars or risers. Hand polished before being black electroplated or show chromed, it ships with 5/16-18 stainless steel socket cap hardware for mounting the gauges - "the 1 or 1.25" clamp size makes them a universal mounting point and problem solver for any number of custom cockpit challenges on M8 Softails" - especially when changing to taller handlebars. The stock wiring, digital display and indicator lights can be reused.

Also seen here, Biltwell's hinged design straight or angled speed clamps also use removable shims to fit around the uprights on 1 and 1.25" outer diameter uprights. "Our speed clamp's super-clean hinged design fits around the uprights on our standard or oversize 'Tyson' riserless handlebar and 'Murdock' risers to provide a rock-solid mount for most stock H-D and select aftermarket speedometer brackets. 

"The threaded hole on the leading edge of each clamp accepts a 5/16-18 t.p.i. allen cap bolt (included), which passes through the holes on the speedo bracket to create a strong, clean mounting point across the front of the handlebar."

BILTWELL INC.
www.biltwellinc.com

Letric Lighting Co

Letric G2 'Royal Flush' LEDs

Oreland, Pennsylvania based Letric Lighting Co caused quite a stir in the powersports LED lighting aftermarket since making its debut at the Tucker dealer expo in Texas in January this year.

Owner Jeff Zielinski (of NAMZ Custom Cycle Products fame) says that "we have certainly hit the ground running and it's not all about new products, we're already finding ways to make our existing designs even better and brighter. This is a sector that doesn't stand still - our technology and production techniques continue to develop at a rapid pace."
Letric is now introducing G2 Royal Flush LEDs that are said to "pack serious ultra-bright COB [Chip on Board] LEDs into a tiny 9/16" or 1" all aluminum housing - we are making them available in OE match and custom upgrade install friendly silver or black anodized finishes.
"Our commitment to our dealers and their customers is to always be at the cutting edge, and these second generation 'Royal Flush' LEDs are way brighter than our originals. The G2s are completely sealed from the elements, come pre-wired with OEM color wire - blue for the running light, violet for the turn signal and black for the ground. They offer high and low intensity for run/brake or run/turn functionality and white to amber/off SWITCHBACK technology for front lighting applications."
Rear 'Royal Flush' signals are sold in 6 packs and can be used with Badlands sequential flashing run/brake/turn signal modules with built-in load equalizer; they are backed by a limited 2-year warranty.

LETRIC LIGHTING CO.
www.letriclighting.com

Tucker Powersports

XKGlow Light and Turn Signal License Plate

Tucker Powersports' new XKGlow motorcycle license plate with turn signal is a triumph of "function meeting form" according to the company, with the exterior line of LEDs functioning as both running and brake lights. 

"Hit that turn signal and the entire left or right side of the frame flashes with your turn signal as well. The unique design makes the uninterrupted LED glow possible while at the same time, maximizing visibility. The white LEDs are fully integrated into the frame keeping the aesthetics simple and sleek."
Available in a dark semi-gloss black or chrome finish, it features 18 white 1.5W max output white LEDs and 200 6W max output reds, using 12vDC input. It can be used in addition to the factory lights or exclusively "to clean up that back end."

TUCKER V-TWIN
www.tucker.com/v-twin