Drag Specialties

Drag Specialties - Additions

Caballero Seat
This Drag Specialties Seats Caballero seat has a dual-material finish, with solar-reflective leather in the seating area and automotive-grade vinyl on the sides. Solar-reflective is a patented process to reduce the surface temperature by as much as 25°F for a cooler seat, higher durability and longer life over conventional leather or vinyl. 

The molded polyurethane foam gives maximum comfort and styling, while the 3/16" ABS thermoformed seat base provides a perfect fit.  It is available in a diamond stitch style for '97-'07 FLHR and '06-'07 FLHX models.  

Compensating Sprocket kit

 
This Drag Specialties compensating sprocket kit will help reduce the torsional vibration from the motor and drivetrain shock. It comes complete with a high-quality 34-tooth sprocket, sprocket retainer, sliding cam, sprocket bolt and spring pack. This kit works with 17-21 M-8models (excluding FXBR/S, FXFB/S and FXDR/S models) and replaces OEM #40100076.

End Mount Single and Dual-Fire Ignition Coils

 
These Drag Specialties single and dual-fire ignition coils have a 30,000V output for all '70-'06 ignitions, and can increase the peak spark voltage by at least 20%. This helps improve starting and prevents high-speed misfires. The 3 ohm coils feature angled outputs with a black body.

Front Brake Caliper Kit

This OEM-style caliper comes in a chrome finish with all necessary mounting hardware and brake pads. This left-side caliper fits '00-'07 Dyna and Softail models along with '00-'03 XL single-disc models.

DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com

Freedom Performance

Another Aftermarket Exhaust Industry First for Indian Chief Models

Earlier this year Corona, California based Freedom Performance introduced what company CEO Martin Arteaga said at the time was "the first 2-into-1 aftermarket exhaust system for the Indian Chief."

In what he says is another industry first, Freedom has launched "the first Radical Radius aftermarket exhaust system for the Indian Chief." Featuring an exclusive performance collector that "gives maximum horsepower and torque, resulting in a hot California sound and performance, the Radical Radius system eliminates the catalytic converter, resulting in heat reduction of 30-40% and includes a 220-degree wrap-around full coverage heat shield than can be used or removed." 

 

The header and the heat shield are made of steel for "a massive performance-boosting 50% reduction in weight" compared to Indian's stock system for the Chief. The 2.5" OD "is made to fit our precision machined, interchangeable aluminum end caps - including our straight or slash tips - all of which come in a variety of finishes, including sculpted black, chrome, pitch black, sculpted gold and solid gold."
Described by Martin as "sleek and smooth", quiet mufflers are also available as an option if desired. Additional features include 12 mm and 18 mm ports and plugs, as well as complete mounting hardware and brackets. Pipes come in chrome or ceramic black. The system fits with rear pegs, so relocator brackets are not needed, and the installation process is said to be simple.  

FREEDOM PERFORMANCE EXHAUST
www.freedomperformexhaust.com

Zodiac International

Zodiac International - Additions

Blow Performance Exhausts
Australian made Blow Performance three-step exhaust systems are designed to work with the exhaust inertia pulse and give a broad power band on 80-131 CI Evolution Big Twin, 88-131 CI Twin Cam and 107-131 CI M-8 engines. 

Zodiac says that "three-step headers are not to be confused with straight drag pipes - these are true high performance exhaust systems for closed course competition. Blow Performance encourages having your engine dyno tuned after installation by a professional dyno tuner for maximum performance." Note that these exhausts do not fit hydraulic clutch equipped models.
They are sold as 'Kutbak' exhaust systems in chrome or ceramic black with ceramic black, chrome or rose gold copper plated heat shields for '84-'00 Evolution Big Twin, '99-'17 Twin Cam, '18 and up M-8 Softail, '21 and up M-8 Touring and '21 and up Trike models.
Accessories and replacement parts available include replacement heat shields, 'Kong' support bracket kits, flange and gasket kits, Pro Performance baffle kit, standard baffle kit and angled M18 to M14 O2 sensor adapter.

Westland Customs Chicano Style Ape Hangers

 

Made in the Netherlands, these 1.5" (38 mm) diameter handlebars are for use with 1 1/4" (25.4 mm) handlebar controls and risers. The bars are dimpled and drilled for internal wiring and work with the electronic TBW found on '08 and up Harley Touring, '09 and up Harley Trike, '16 to present Harley Softail and selected CVO and Screamin' Eagle models.
All handlebars are TIG welded by hand. They are available with 11" (28 cm), 14" (35.5 cm) or 16" (40.5 cm) rise.

S&S Tuned Single Bore Induction
"Air flow is everything in a performance engine and naturally it begins at the air filter. Factory units are downright boxy and can be very restrictive. The S&S Cycle Tuned Single Bore Induction utilizes two laser cut and highly engineered tubes, merged into a single collecter that is fed by a pair of high flow air filters placed directly in the air flow. The end result is maximum performance and a stylish package." 

Zodiac says that this is "true bolt-on performance with more than twice the filtering area offered by the stock intake system for a 44% Increase in flow. The smooth intake tract of carefully selected tuned lengths increases performance and high flow washable and reusable cotton media filter elements provide performance, protection, and economy."
Available for Twin Cam models with TBW and all Milwaukee Eights. The Tuned Induction System will not fit on motorcycles equipped with fairing lower glove boxes or Twin-Cooled models. Complete Single Bore Tuned Induction kits for TBW Twin Cam fit '08-'16 Touring, '09-'16 Trike, '16-'17 Softail and '16-'17 FXDLS Low Rider S. M-8 kits fit '17 and up Touring, '17 and up Trike and '18 and up Softail. They are available in chrome, gloss black or brushed stainless steel.

Heat Shield Insulation Liners
"Heat from the exhaust system can become uncomfortable, especially when riding in slow traffic. These heat shield insulation liners are the solution for this problem. They provide increased riding comfort while maintaining the stock look."

Each insulation liner is precision cut to fit exactly inside the stock heatshield. They are invisible but block heat transfer and lower the surface temperature of the outer shield. Easy to install with no modifications needed, they are made in the USA by Design Engineering Inc. from a dual layer of aluminum and Dura 2000 insulating material and offer a more than 60% heat reduction.

Ciro Dryforce Luggage
American accessory designer CIRO says its DRYFORCE waterproof luggage was designed "for riders who demand the best. DRYFORCE luggage will keep gear dry and secure, no matter how intense the weather." Features include rugged adjustable straps, oversized handles, heavy-duty nylon attachment points, YKK zippers and T-handles for heavy-duty pull zippers. 

They have a custom 840d nylon TPU laminate, welded seams, reflective Ciro logo and 2 year warranty. The 24 liter capacity 23" (58 cm) wide x 11" (28 cm) tall x 13" (33 cm) deep Dryforce Quick Release Cooler fits Harley-Davidson's standard Tour-Pak luggage rack, and is also available as a universal Cooler with hard moulded top and bottom.
The range also includes a similar sized Tour-Pak rack compatible quick release waterproof case, a collapsible 40 liter duffel bag (20"/51 cm wide x 16"/41 cm tall x 12"/30 cm) and a 18"/46 cm wide x 20"/51 cm tall x 11"/28 cm deep 60 liter collapsible roll bag.

ZODIAC INTERNATIONAL BV
www.zodiac.nl

Tucker Powersports - Kuryakyn

Kuryakyn Adds High-End Audio and Travel Bags

In an expansion of its on-highway and off-road offerings, Kuryakyn has added its first new product since becoming an in-house brand at Fort Worth, Texas based Tucker Powersports.
Described as the "new king of the hill in mobile speakers," the Kuryakyn Wanderbar delivers "audiophile sound quality to motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides or a tailgate party or campsite. The Wanderbar's 35-watt dynamic stereo amp delivers power to two woofers and four tweeters while integrated passive radiators produce thumping mids and bass lines owners won't expect from a compact speaker. 

Wanderbar's 35-watt dynamic stereo amp delivers power to two woofers and four tweeters.

"The chargeable lithium battery packs power for hours of music, for charging other electronics or powering the built-in task light. It's available in 14 inch or 10 inch versions.
"If smaller size and permanent mounting is important to a rider, the Road Thunder Sound Bar Plus includes a solid mount to a motorcycle or ATV, while using less handlebar space. It has two full range speakers and four tweeters, is available in satin silver and black, and mounts to 1 1/2" handlebars."
Kuryakyn's Torke line of waterproof carrying cases for ADV and overlanding gets four new waterproof RF-welded PVC construction additions.
The Momentum line of bags also gains four new styles - the Wanderer touring seat bag; the Road Warrior bag; the Vagabond bag, and the Freeloader bag. All are constructed from UV-rated weather-resistant 1200 denier textile material. The Wanderer is a 60-liter capacity do-it-all bag with a huge center storage area. The 60-liter Road Warrior features eight separate storage areas; the Vagabond is a 46-liter "weekender," with the 33-liter/39-liter expandable duffle style Freeloader mountable to any sissy bar or backrest.

 

Torke line of waterproof carrying cases.

"Kuryakyn continues its mission of delivering great products that make a better experience for all riders," said Kuryakyn Brand Manager Tyler Anderson. "Our new products are designed to meet the needs of motorcycle riders, ATV and side-by-side owners and their 'faithful companions.' This brand continues to innovate and improve the riding experience for all of our customers."

TUCKER POWERSPORTS
www.kuryakyn.com

Galfer

Galfer Floatech Brake Disc System

One of the new product highlights at EICMA in November 2021 was to be found at the Galfer booth.
The internationally respected Spanish brake components manufacturer's in-house R&D and Innovation team have an established record of developing solutions for problems that the motorcycle brakes industry didn't even realize it had, and kudos to the Galfer team for their latest innovation.
Floatech is a high-tech system of improvements that looks closely at the interaction between the brake disc track and the carrier and answers several weaknesses that are built-in to most conventional floating disc designs.

Ivo Bristot, Galfer's International Sales and Marketing Director, is a long-time motorcycle brakes industry innovator - his fingerprints are on several design advances that the industry and riders take for granted now, including the classic Disc Wave design.
One of the main features of the Floatech system is improved thermal behavior. Ivo explained that "at high temperatures (above approx. 200 °C) the brake rotor tends to expand in all directions. The new GALFER Floatech system makes it possible to control this growth and avoid potential problems caused by the rotor surface becoming locked-up in relation to the hub."
He went on to explain that "the system allows the rotor to expand freely and avoids the loss of floatability by incorporating a set of parts that consists of washers and a pre-loaded spring. The spring presses on and fixes the brake rotor so that it maintains the same position at all times and is correctly aligned with the brake pads in any situation.
"This eliminates the free movement that occurs with the majority of racing disc brakes on the market and avoids the problem of the brake pads being applied in an uncontrolled way and causing braking difficulties - even when faced with the strong vibrations or gyroscopic forces that occur at high speeds.

"The new Floatech system ensures perfect self-alignment between the brake discs and pads at all times so that the caliper pistons always maintain the position set by the brake manufacturer and braking is far more stable."
Having studied the braking forces and the possibility of being able to design specific directional discs (left/right), Galfer says it has additionally been able to determine the key points for optimizing the design of the disc hubs (the carriers), providing greater rigidity with the minimum weight possible. Galfer has innovated the design of directional brake discs that are specific for each side of the wheel - delivering an optimized left/right structure.
Also improving the heat management of the rotor/carrier system, Galfer has improved the thermal break between the two components by using a new gold-nitrided pin design to join the two parts of the disc brake.
It is made out of titanium and improves the thermal barrier between the two parts due to its low thermal conductivity. Other materials such as aluminum are more conductive and transfer heat more directly.

The new GALFER Floatech system allows the disc brakes to exhibit "improved and more stable behavior in any position and at any temperature. What is more, they reduce weight, which provides better bike handling and increased rider confidence."
"Several world-class MotoGP and WSBK riders have already used the new Floatech disc brakes during the 2021 season, including Italian rider Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing), who took five victories and five podiums in Moto3, and South African Steven Odendaal (Evan Bros), who achieved five victories and six podiums in Supersport 600.
"They all say they experienced the effectiveness of braking with the new Floatech disc - with real improvements and differences to their braking and cornering feel."
GALFER plans to extend this exclusive technology to all teams by the 2022 season and to make it accessible to the general public on medium to high-capacity motorcycles in the medium term.

INDUSTRIAS GALFER S.A.
www.galfer.eu

Vance & Hines

Vance & Hines on FTC Action Against H-D

In what, ostensibly, sounds like a remarkable move by the United States Federal Trade Commission, a complaint has been issued against Harley (June 23, 2022), ordering the company to "fix warranties by removing illegal terms and recognizing the right to repair."
The complaint goes on to urge Harley to "come clean with customers and ensure that dealers compete fairly with independent third-parties." 

Mike Kennedy, President & CEO of Vance & Hines "This action taken by the FTC is a huge win for motorcycle riders."

A similar complaint was issued against Westinghouse, and it is assumed that the two companies have been selected for sample action as the FTC seeks to clamp down on warranty policies that illegally restrict customers' right of repair.
Kennedy, President & CEO of Vance & Hines and himself a former senior Harley executive issued the following statement: "This action taken by the FTC is a huge win for motorcycle riders.
"While we still need to see how this plays out, we anticipate that riders will have more choices in how they repair and update their motorcycles during the warranty period, which is clearly a big deal for companies in the motorcycle aftermarket, too.
"I hope that the 'it will void your warranty' threat for someone who just wants a better sounding or smoother running Harley is a thing of the past."

Polaris Industries

Polaris in Transamerican Auto Parts Sell-Off

Polaris Industries continues to roll-back loss-making or non-fit former CEO Stott Wine era acquisitions, with the announcement of a definitive agreement to sell its Transamerican Auto Parts (TAP) business to Colorado based Wheel Pros.
A designer, manufacturer and distributor of proprietary branded aftermarket vehicle enhancements for light trucks, SUVs, passenger cars and ATVs/UTVs, Wheel Pros is backed in the acquisition by Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. in partnership with management.
The transaction includes TAP's full portfolio of operations, including all brands, product lines, manufacturing operations, distribution facilities, more than 100 Four Wheel Parts retail locations, and more than 1,700 TAP employees.

"We have a clear vision to be the global leader in powersports," said Polaris CEO Mike Speetzen. "Our decision to divest TAP better positions us to capitalize on growing consumer interest and demand for our powersports offerings, while enabling Polaris to focus our time, people and resources on our core On-road, Off-road and Marine businesses, along with the parts, garments and accessories brands that support those customers.
"In addition, it supports our long-term financial targets and is expected to have a positive impact on EBITDA margin. TAP remains a leading omni-channel player in the Jeep and truck aftermarket space, and we appreciate the contributions the team has made to Polaris."
The news comes after January 2022 saw Polaris divest itself of two other Scott Wine era investments - GEM (the formerly GM owned Fargo N.D. based Global Electric Motorcars business) and factory and airport truck manufacturer Taylor Dunn.
Those businesses were sold to Waev Inc., a start-up created by a group of ex Polaris managers and based at Talyor Dunn's Anaheim, CA., offices. GEM was bought by Polaris in 2011 and made low-speed campus style electric vehicles; they bought Taylor Dunn and TAP in 2016.
Polaris recorded a $37m loss on the GEM/Taylor Dunn sale - the two businesses had combined sales of less than $100m. However, the TAP disposal is of a more significant scale and is expected to cost Polaris a net of tax impairment charge in the region of $140m.
The transaction is expected to close early in the third quarter, subject to customary closing conditions, and is estimated to drive $135m of additional cash inflows for Polaris in the second half of 2022. This includes the purchase price from the buyer and realization of cash tax benefits related to the sale, minus estimated transaction fees.
The sale price, net of cash, debt, and other costs is estimated at $50m. In 2021, Polaris' Aftermarket segment generated $930m in revenue, of which the Compton, CA. based TAP business accounted for nearly $760m - which must now leave a question mark over the long-term fit of the other brands included in its aftermarket segment; brands such as Kolpin, Pro Armor, Klim, 509 and Trail Tech.

Denis Manning and BUB 7 Team

Denis Manning and BUB 7 Team Announce Trev Richter to Lead Quest to Regain World's Fastest Motorcycle Title

When it comes to Motorcycle Land Speed Record setting pedigree, it doesn't come better than multiple record setting streamliner designer and performance engineer Denis Manning. New rider Trev Richter will ride to beat current two-way average mile record of 376.156 mph.

Formerly of BUB Exhausts fame, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame member and former Sportsperson of the Year, and his BUB 7 Team, are pleased to announce lifelong rider Trev Richter of Hunter Sills Racing will take the seat of their new BUB 7.1 motorcycle streamliner this fall. 

Richter (48) has been on two wheels since childhood, first as a BMX racer, then graduating to dirt, sport, adventure, and land speed motorcycles. Currently, Richter works as a professional adventure riding motorcycle coach and holds multiple AMA, FIM and SCTA land speed records in both faired and unfaired 1,000 cc motorcycle classes.
"Trev was the perfect choice to bring the record back for the BUB 7.1 streamliner," says Denis Manning, owner of the BUB 7 team.
"Since starting in land speed racing in 2017, his natural riding talents have propelled him to earn five top speed world and national records in a very short time. He possesses the innate abilities we have been searching for; abilities that have been honed further as a successful off-road rider, dirt and land speed racer, and adventure riding coach. We are confident he has the necessary talent, wisdom, and the will and determination to make it happen."
The streamliner, named the BUB 7.1 to distinguish it from the prior BUB 7, mimics the design of its predecessor with a unique aerodynamic shape Manning says is inspired by the Coho salmon - delivering an incredibly low coefficient of drag measured at 0.08. All components of the bike are custom designed by Manning and his team, including the purpose-build turbo-charged V-4 engine and full carbon fiber monocoque framed chassis.

BUB 7.1 rider Trev Richter (Photo: Jean Turner)

Manning has been designing and racing streamliner motorcycles for over 50 years, first setting the record with Cal Rayborn at 265.492 mph in 1970. He and his team held the record from 2006 to 2008 at 350.884 mph and again in 2009 when Chris Carr piloted it for a two-way average mile speed of 367.382 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.
The current average mile record in Manning's sight was set in September 2010 at 376.156 mph by Rocky Robinson riding the Mike Akatiff designed Ack Attack.
"It's an honor to work with a veteran land speed champion like Denis Manning. His knowledge and experience are unmatched, and he knows how to win in the extreme sport of land speed racing," says Richter.
"To win in land speed racing, one needs optimal power, traction, and aerodynamics. The BUB 7.1 brings all these factors together in the perfect combination. I look forward to following in the footsteps of Cal Rayborn and Chris Carr who've put Denis' designs in the record books."
Denis Manning, nicknamed "BUB" since childhood, began his motorcycle career as part of the USA Drag Racing team in England at the age of 19. Ever since he saw Mickey Thompson run at Bonneville, Manning has spent his life trying to do with motorcycles what Mickey did with cars. 

BUB 7 testing at the A2 wind tunnel

In the process he has set more land speed records than anyone. He and his team first set the all-out motorcycle record in 1970 with a Harley-Davidson, followed by the world's fastest Triumph, world's fastest Norton, world's fastest single-engine motorcycle, world's fastest single-engine conventional motorcycle, and world's fastest all-out motorcycle.
Manning is founder of the International Motorcycle Speed Trials by BUB (now Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials), was named AMA "Sportsperson of the Year" in 2004 for his contributions to the sport and was inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame in 2006.
Hunter Sills Racing is a female-owned professional land speed racing team founded in 2004 whose lead riders (Erin Sills, Trev Richter, and the late Andy Sills) have collectively earned over 45 World and National records, 2 Guinness World records, Mojave Mile 200 mph Club membership, Mojave Magnum 200 mph Club membership, BUB 201 mph Club membership, Bonneville SCTA 200 mph Club membership, El Mirage SCTA 200 mph Club membership, top average mile speed to-date of 238 mph, and title of World's Fastest BMW.