Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Don Emde • donemde@me.com
Associate Publisher/
Editorial Director: Dennis Johnson • dennis@emdebooks.com
Art Director: Morgan Williams
Production &
Accounting Director: Jen Rose • jen@emdebooks.com
Copy Editor: Tracy Emde
Editorial Assistant: Jaxon Emde
Digital Media Manager: Jeff Emde
Design Assistant: Kristina Nystul Breaux
Contributing Writers: Kevin Bailey, Beth Dolgner, Guido Ebert, Don Emde, Ari Henning, Dennis Johnson, Dale Spangler, Marilyn Stemp, Jean Turner
Contributing
Photographers: Flowing SJ, Richard Gergely, Scott Hunter, Brian J. Nelson, NVUS, Rod Olson, Marilyn Stemp
To our readers: Editorial space in this publication has been offered on an “advertorial” basis. While we have done our best to check the facts, our readers should be aware that the responsibility for accuracy rests with the manufacturers, vendors or sponsors who provided the information to us. – Publisher.
Publishing office: PO Box 6118, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607 Tel: 949-632-4668
Don Emde Inc. Directors: President: Don Emde
Vice President: Jen Rose
Secretary/Treasurer: Tracy Emde
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85th Annual Sturgis Rally: Drag Specialties rolls into the Black Hills of South Dakota for the 85th running of the legendary Sturgis Rally. Rod Olson photos
DEPARTMENTS
» 6 Emde Report
» 10 News & Events
» 81 Parts Department
SPECIAL FEATURES
» 26 2025 Bagger Racing League Rounds 5, 6 and AMA Bagger Championship
» 36 MotoAmerica: King of the Baggers Update
» 38 Sound Great, Be Seen: Audio & Lighting Products
My father, Floyd Emde, leads Bill Tuman on a hot 106-degree day at the Sturgis fairgrounds in August of 1947. Unfortunately, Floyd got very dehydrated after being out in the heat all day and he wasn’t able to hold off Tuman’s challenge for the lead on the final lap of the Main event. Floyd Emde Archive / Don Emde Collection
Our cover story in this issue features the highlights of this year’s Sturgis Rally. Known best as “The Rally,” this year was the 85th annual edition dating back to when local Indian dealer J.C. “Pappy” Hoel and his wife Pearl got it all started in Sturgis. The Hoels had more of an “open house” in 1937, but its success led to a collaboration with the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club the following year to create a regional rally that would include both racing events at the Fairgrounds, as well as much for the road riders to see and do in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Except for a necessary 4-year hiatus during World War II, that concept has never changed.
In 1947, my father, Floyd Emde, was in the prime of his racing career and he had driven from California to compete in the AMA National races at Springfield, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The flat track race at Sturgis was conveniently one week before Springfield and was the setting of a classic East-West confrontation for the spectators. Floyd was at the time the holder of the Pacific Coast Championship title, and his primary rival was Bill Tuman, an up-and-coming rider from Rock Island, Illinois.
After World War II, many people smoked cigarettes and match books were great advertising tools for motorcycle dealers. Floyd got this one at Pappy Hoel’s dealership in 1947. Floyd Emde Archive / Don Emde Collection
Mother Nature wasn’t on Floyd’s side that day. On race day, the mercury in the thermometers went as high as 106 degrees. Being from San Diego where the Pacific Ocean breezes keep the temps down in summer, the weather took its toll on him. After winning his Heat race that day, Floyd led Midwestern native Tuman until the final lap of the Main event when Tuman made a pass. Floyd said years later, he just didn’t have the energy left to try to retake the lead and had to settle for 2nd place.
Floyd never returned to Sturgis, but many years later I was able to keep our family tradition going and have enjoyed both business and fun activities, as well as many great rides out to places like Devil’s Tower, Deadwood, Mount Rushmore and all the other popular destinations. There’s no other event like the Rally. Check out this year’s event starting on page 18. ■
Ride Safe!
Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
NEWS EVENTS AND LeMans Returns to AIMExpo with Dealer Incentives, Customs Showcase, Free Coffee
Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited parent company LeMans Corporation is making a high-impact return to AIMExpo for the show’s 2026 debut in Anaheim, California. The company will sponsor free coffee for attendees, offer exclusive dealer incentives, and anchor its exhibit with the iconic Drag Specialties semi. The AIMExpo is taking place January 7–9 at the Anaheim Convention Center.
“A shared passion is one of the outstanding things that makes this industry great,” said Cinnamon Kernes, Vice President of Market Expansion at the Motorcycle Industry Council, which hosts AIMExpo. “When an event brings together the people, the brands, and the products of our industry, and adds the element of learning and networking, it’s an opportunity that can’t be missed.”
LeMans’s presence will be front and center at the show. Just inside the main entrance, The Starting Line will offer complimentary coffee, sponsored by Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited. Nearby, the LeMans exhibit will showcase custom motorcycles and new product displays.
“At LeMans Corporation, we’re stepping up to ensure the powersports industry thrives,” said Paul Devine, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, LeMans Corporation. “By partnering with AIMExpo and becoming the exclusive coffee sponsor, we’re not only fueling dealer engagement – we’re also amplifying our brand presence as Supercross kicks off just blocks away.”
The collaboration between the MIC, AIMExpo, and LeMans extends beyond Anaheim. At the 2025 North American NVP Product Expo now in Milwaukee, the organizations partnered to give away 10 free MIC Dealer Memberships, underscoring a shared commitment to dealer success and cross-industry engagement. The 2026 NVP Product Expo kicks off in Louisville just two weeks after AIMExpo.
“AIMExpo is a strong complement to our 2025 show and 2026 NVP Product Expo in Louisville,” Devine said. “The events give us a chance to support and bring together our dealers, a mission that’s at the heart of everything we do.” ■
Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited parent company LeMans Corporation will be front-and-center at the 2026 AIMExpo in Anaheim, California. Photo courtesy of the MIC
NEWS EVENTS AND Harley-Davidson Names Artie Starrs as New President
and Chief Executive Officer
Harley-Davidson, Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Artie Starrs as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2025. Starrs joins Harley-Davidson from Topgolf Callaway Brands, where he served as CEO of the Topgolf International, Inc. subsidiary.
“Artie is an accomplished business leader who brings extensive experience managing strong brands and global operations,” said Troy Alstead, Presiding Director. “His track record of delivering top and bottom-line growth, combined with his experience in franchise driven industries, are both huge assets for HarleyDavidson at this time in the Company’s history.
“Artie understands the special place Harley-Davidson occupies in culture and in the lives of our riders. I’m confident that Artie can further enhance this connection with current riders while bringing new people into the H-D community.”
As CEO of Topgolf, Starrs was responsible for delivering on the overall vision and growth of the brand and establishing it as one of the premier sports entertainment companies in the world. He managed a portfolio of over 100 global recreational venues with over 30,000 employees, with a track record of driving growth and financial performance. Under Starr’s four and a half years of leadership. Topgolf’s revenues grew over 50 percent, from $1.1 billion in 2021 to $1.8 billion annually, and the brand expanded into five additional countries across Europe and Asia.
Between 2013 and 2021, Starrs held leadership roles at Yum! Brands’ subsidiary, Pizza Hut, most recently as Global CEO. During his time at Pizza Hut, Starrs led the brand to over 18,000+ locations across 110 countries. Prior to this role, he was President of Pizza Hut U.S. and before joining Yum! Brands, he served as Chief Financial Officer for Rave Cinemas. Starrs began his career as an investment banker at Wasserstein Perella.
Artie Starrs will assume his new role as Harley-Davidson's President and CEO October 1, 2025.
Photo courtesy of Harley-Davidson
“It’s a huge privilege to be joining Harley-Davidson as President and CEO, and I am grateful for the opportunity to help steward this incredible company. I have long admired the unique position Harley-Davidson has in the hearts of its riders and fans; there is no brand that brings the same level of community and rebellious spirit as Harley-Davidson,” Starrs said. “I’m excited by the tremendous potential to both drive growth and further enhance the H-D experience for all, and I look forward to working with the dedicated Harley-Davidson employees and dealer network as we start this journey together.”
Mr. Starrs will join the Harley-Davidson Board of Directors upon assuming the role of CEO. Jochen Zeitz will continue in his role as Chairman, President and CEO until October 1, 2025, after which he will remain a senior advisor to the company through February 2026 to facilitate a smooth transition. The Board has appointed Troy Alstead to succeed Mr. Zeitz as Chairman of the Board effective October 1, 2025. ■
nlimited. The Fred Fox Story provides an in-depth look at the life of Fred Fox, a leader of the modern era of powersports product distribution. The newly released book written and published by Don Emde is a full-color, 324page publication, hardbound with an embossed dust jacket and 700+ photos. Price: $50.00 plus $10.00 shipping & handling – sales tax where applicable. Postage rates shown are for U.S. addresses only.
Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing’s Kyle Wyman on his way to his fifth King of the Baggers win at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Brian J. Nelson photo
quality cables, trusted name
OE Quality, High-Performance
Black Vinyl or Stainless-Steel Braided cables — including extended lengths.
See your Drag Specialties rep for more information.
NEWS EVENTS AND
Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Announced
NEW GLOBAL RACING SERIES LAUNCHES IN 2026
arley-Davidson and MotoGP™ have launched an exciting new championship series. It’s the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup, the world’s first global racing series dedicated to high-performance Harley-Davidson Bagger motorcycles.
This electrifying new series marks a pivotal moment in Harley-Davidson’s competitive evolution and global motorsport ambitions. Co-developed with MotoGP and Dorna Sports, the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup will debut in 2026, bringing the thunder of race-tuned V-Twin touring motorcycles to premier international circuits. Based on Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring platform, Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup race bikes will be radically transformed for speed, agility and spectacle, offering fans a visceral new kind of racing experience unlike anything currently on the MotoGP schedule.
The series will feature six rounds across North America and Europe, culminating in a championship-deciding finale in Austria.
The series kicks off in the United States, home of Harley-Davidson and the Bagger Racing League and the King of the Baggers racing series, before making its way across Europe and onto the global stage. From the hills of Mugello to the historic straights of Silverstone, the Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup will bring distinctive American performance and international competition together in a
MotoGP photo
thrilling, six-round championship as some of the most iconic race-tracks enjoyed by riders and fans across the globe.
Austria’s Red Bull Ring will host the final and championship-deciding round, honoring the country’s deep motorsport heritage and growing prominence on the global racing stage.
“The launch of Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup signals a bold new era for Harley-Davidson and for the sport of motorcycle racing,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, HarleyDavidson This series is about pushing limits, of our machines, our riders, and our brand, on a global stage. We’re proud to partner with MotoGP to bring this vision to life.” ■ •
2026 BAGGER CUP RACE CALENDAR
Circuit of the Americas (USA March 27–29
Mugello (Italy) May 29–31
Assen (Netherlands) June 26–28
Silverstone (UK) August 7–9
Aragon (Spain) August 28–30
September 18–20 Championship Round
Jaxon Emde
Joins Magazine Staff
Red Bull Ring (Austria)
Publisher Don Emde announced the addition of grandson Jaxon Emde as an Editorial Assistant on the staff of Drag Specialties Magazine. Jaxon and his father, Jeff Emde (Digital Media Manager of Don Emde Inc), are seen here with Don at the Trailblazers banquet last March in Carson, CA. Welcome, Jaxon! Kinney Jones photo ■
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RUMBLE
IN THE BLACK HILLS
South Dakota’s tourism motto “Great Faces, Great Places” is catchy and memorable, thanks to the clever rhyme and its reference to one of America’s rock-solid monuments. The saying also applies to the state’s – and the world’s – largest gathering of motorcyclists that traditionally packs the beautiful Black Hills with happy riders and tons of moto-centric fun.
The long-established Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, a favorite among riders for its stellar, scenic roads and the community it brings together, has seen both fat and lean times over eight decades. Wars, global economics, local frustration, and the fortunes of OEM manufacturers have impacted attendance. As the Rally’s 85th Anniversary approached and the buzz languished, watchers wondered how it would play out.
The first hint came at the City of Sturgis opening ceremony on Friday, August 1, the initial event on a markedly pareddown schedule of City happenings. As the Budweiser Clydesdales paraded down Main Street and 100-year-old Grand Marshall Gloria Struck reigned at Harley-Davidson Rally Point, energy swelled perceptibly. Friends gathered, bikes were parked end to end, and people were excited!
It was soon clear that excitement followed Gloria, one of the 85th’s great faces, everywhere she went, all week long. Her story and presence attracted and inspired riders of every stripe. Age, experience and persistence still inspire, as Gloria proved.
Another historic aspect of the Rally was showcased as the Jackpine Gypsies joined with Progressive American Flat
Story by Marilyn Stemp Photos by Rod Olson and Marilyn Stemp
V-Twin enthusiasts from around the world descended on the Black Hills of South Dakota for the 85th annual Sturgis Rally. Rod Olson photo
85 TH ANNIVERSARY STURGIS RALLY:
AUGUST 1-10, 2025
Track for three rounds of racing, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. Formed by Indian dealer and race promoter J.C. “Pappy” Hoel in 1938, the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club founded the Black Hills Rally & Races that same year.
Eighty-five rallies later, racing at the Gypsies’ club grounds brought the sport back to its historic roots in Sturgis. Short Track round II featured Lance Coury, Jr. and Lance Coury Sr. of THRASHIN Supply as grand marshals, and track engineers transformed the traditional club track into a TT course for Friday’s Super TT race.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, located at the iconic corner of Main Street and Junction Avenue, emphasized both legacy and unfolding history at the inaugural
Pearl’s Jam, celebrating Pappy Hoel’s wife, Pearl, and Gloria Struck. Also honored were racer Jessi Combs, a portrait of whom was unveiled by artist Ray Drea; and Hall of Fame inductee Lillian Farrow, the subject of “Iron Lilly,” an upcoming feature film.
The Museum’s annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony recognized and welcomed in the 2025 class of inductees, a group that included Drag Specialties vendor relations guru Tom Motzko and V-Twin marketing man Grady Pfeiffer. Also honored were Farrow, a co-founder of A.D. Farrow Harley-Davidson, Charlie Gilmore, Gary Gray, Michael Lichter, Darren McKeag, Berry Wardlaw, and Ray Tewksbury.
RETAIL AT THE RALLY
While amped up events at the Museum certainly increased activity on the east end of Main Street, there was also plenty of action at the totally transformed Sturgis HarleyDavidson dealership.
Operating under the same ownership as Black Hills HarleyDavidson (BHHD) in Rapid City, Sturgis Harley-Davidson got new life this Spring when a reconstructed wider entrance allowed for the display and sale of motorcycles for the very first time in Sturgis. That’s correct; the first-ever sale of a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Sturgis, South Dakota, happened in February of 2025! (It was a 2024 CVO Pan America.)
Tim Sutherland, sales manager at both the Sturgis and Black Hills stores, oversaw the changes at the Sturgis location.
“Selling motorcycles from Sturgis Harley-Davidson for the first time was huge. We feel fortunate to have achieved our goal to go from zero to 277 bikes by the end of the rally,” he said. “And we were lucky to pull together the strong team it takes to sell that many bikes in so short a time.”
By week’s end, Black Hills had passed its prior record for motorcycle sales, totaling over 1,100 bikes sold between the two locations.
Long known as “The Rally at Exit 55,” Black Hills HarleyDavidson was ready to go on pre-Rally weekend and the
The parking lot at Black Hills Harley-Davidson (AKA The Rally at Exit 55) was home base for the Drag Specialties semi truck and its associated vendors. Business was more than brisk throughout the rally with sales and installations. Rod Olson images
steady stream of bikes turning in seldom let up. This is where Drag Specialties and select vendors setup for the rally. There was improved signage, plenty of parking and shuttles for guest convenience. A massive sales center with hundreds of bikes was adjacent to a large install and service center, plus a VIP lounge.
Better still, management re-vamped the main vending area, and the refinements mattered. “We changed the layout to improve the flow, said Operations and Rally
Manager Mike Maloney. “If we did it right, nobody will notice! The result is there’s more shoppable square footage and more brands represented.”
That was all true and it enhanced the experience. Plenty of Drag Specialties vendors were on hand to show, sell and install. On hand with the Drag semi were: Alpinestars, Arai, ICON, Khrome Werks, Klock Werks, Legend Suspension, PSR, Rekluse, Ride Power, Saddlemen, SP Connect, Vance & Hines, Wildass, and Z1R.
Ask the experts! A contingent of Drag Specialties employees was on-hand at the company’s semi. From left: April Knapp, Jerred Petcheny and Nick Stofle. Marilyn Stemp photo
As expected, Bagger bikes were the theme of the Rally and Drag Specialties was sure to have plenty of customs on hand to showcase parts and accessories. Rod Olson photo
Drag Specialties Seats knows that comfort sells, that’s why the brand makes seat demos an integral part of its sales program. Try it, ride it and you’ll likely buy it! Rod Olson photo
Drag Specialties Magazine contributor Marilyn Stemp (left) stopped in at Black Hills Harley-Davidson and snagged a photo with LeMans Corporation Chairman Paul Langley (center) and Drag vendor relations expert Tom Motzko (right). Marilyn Stemp photo
BETTER BUSINESS
Independent Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited dealers around the Black Hills kept riders rolling, too, among them: Backlash M/C Service & Repair, Buffalo Chip Garage, Dakota V-Twin, Deadwood Custom Cycles, Hill City Cycles, and Hose Clamp Customs.
S&S Cycle staged the inaugural Tunnels to Towers Charity Ride from their vending space at BHHD, wrapping up its 2025 Vintage Tour with custom builders Kevin Baas, Mike Beland, Chris Callen, Brian Klock, Xavier Muriel, Chip and Mike from San Diego Customs.
Other charity rides during the week included the Biker Belles Celebration, the Buffalo Chip Legends Ride, the Good Ride for Veterans, the inaugural Heroes Honor Ride, the Mayor’s Ride, and Ride with the Masters. In its 7th year, the Buffalo
Turns out the 85th anniversary was a sweet spot for the Sturgis Rally. State officials said the event drew record crowds. Out on the streets and highways, it was see and be seen.
Rod Olson photo
Marilyn Stemp photo
Marilyn Stemp photo
the 85th
Chip’s Rusty Wallace Ride, benefitting Special Olympics and the NASCAR Foundation, set a challenge to raise $500,000 in 2025 – and it did!
Paul Langley, LeMans Corporation Chairman, summed up the Rally well. “From my perspective, the 85th Sturgis Rally was a very successful event. Attendance appeared to be up, and sales for our suppliers were up significantly over the 2024 Rally at both the downtown Sturgis and the Black Hills H-D locations,” he said. “Despite tariff uncertainty, customers
were investing in their beloved machines or trading up for new or newer models and generally having a good time.
“I experienced generally nice weather, witnessed some great racing at the AFT Jackpine Gypsies races, and capped off the week by attending the HOF breakfast and seeing two good friends, our very own Tom Motzko and Gary Gray of Indian Motorcycle, inducted along with the other deserving inductees. The Sturgis Rally was thriving, and I am already planning for the 2026 Rally.”
Smoky burnouts were the name of the game at the Baker Burnout Cash Drags at the Iron Horse Saloon. Drag Specialties served as a sponsor for tires and installation with Metzeler. Rod Olson photo
Trask Performance founder Nick Trask (seated on bike) was on hand at his namesake Trask Invitational Bike Show at the Full Throttle Saloon. Marilyn Stemp photo
For
annual Rally, the Jackpine Gypsies joined forces with Progressive American Flat Track for three rounds of racing, rounds 10, 11 and 12 of the 2025 AFT season.
Scott Hunter photo
The hills were alive with the sounds of V-Twins, and Baggers and Trikes were in heavy use during the Rally. Rod Olson photos
That’s a whole lot of V-Twin history and horsepower packed onto one stage. A gathering of Hall of Famers, past and present. Marilyn Stemp photo
The historic town of Deadwood, South Dakota is a favorite spot for rallygoers. Rod Olson photo
V-Twin marketing legend Grady Pfeiffer was also inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025. Pfeiffer was recognized for his decades of work in the V-Twin aftermarket. Rod Olson photo
WAY TO GO TOM ! TOM MOTZKO INDUCTED
Each year the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame inducts a fresh class of honorees, all of whom are recognized for their significant contributions to the world of motorcycling and the Sturgis Rally. Chief among the 2025 class of nine individuals was Drag Specialties own Tom Motzko, the vendor guru who this year celebrated 51 years with the company. Congratulations, Tom!
INTO STURGIS HALL OF FAME
Tom and his wife Debbie at the Hall of Fame Inductee breakfast.
Tom Motzko giving his acceptance speech. Rod Olson photo
LeMans Corporation is in the house! From left: LeMans Vice President of Sales & Marketing Paul Devine; LeMans Chairman Paul Langley; Drag's Tom Motzko; Paula Fox, wife of late LeMans Corporation founder Fred Fox; and Drag Specialties National Sales Manager Greg Matter. Rod Olson photo ■
COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP 2025 BAGGER RACING LEAGUE UPDATE
When we last left the grassroots-fueled world of Performance Bagger racing, the Bagger Racing League’s Drag Specialties Battle of the Baggers presented by Memphis Shades had just knocked out Rounds 3 and 4 at Motorsport Park Hastings, in Hastings, Nebraska.
Over two days of raw V-Twin power, intense competition and the thunder of Big Inch motors, the series’ competitors delivered heart-pounding action to the assembled fans. They weren’t disappointed. As always, the riders put on a heckuva show in their race for the championship.
In the time since, the series thundered into South Haven, Michigan’s iconic GingerMan Raceway in late June, delivering a high-octane, tire- smoking spectacle for Rounds
5 and 6. The BRL also delivered an electrifying spectacle at the 2025 AMA Bagger Championships, held during the Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days on July 25-27.
Each BRL event celebrates the heart and soul of American motorcycle culture through high-performance track competition. Competitors across the classes all contribute to the experience, bringing fans in close to the bar-banging action.
Here’s a roundup of all the hot racing action.
BRL DRAG SPECIALTIES BATTLE OF THE BAGGERS PRESENTED BY MEMPHIS SHADES – ROUNDS 5 AND 6
The Bagger Racing League’s Drag Specialties Battle of the Baggers presented by Memphis Shades delivered a
Rounds 5 and 6 of the Bagger Racing League’s Drag Specialties Battle of the Baggers presented by Memphis Shades kicked off mid-summer at GingerMan Raceway in Michigan. Here, the competitors approach turn 1 on their race for the checkers. NVUS image
high-octane, tire- smoking spectacle for Rounds 5 and 6 at GingerMan Raceway.
America’s fiercest V- Twin and Bagger motorcycle racers unleashed raw power, razor-sharp skill, and unrelenting passion on the 2.2-mile, 11- turn circuit, leaving fans roaring with excitement. Under perfect Saturday skies for Round 5, and sweltering almost 90-degree heat on Sunday for Round 6, the weekend was a full-throttle celebration of motorcycle racing glory.
Nestled in the picturesque lakeside town along Lake Michigan, GingerMan Raceway has been a motorsport haven since its founding in 1995. Designed by Alan Wilson, this 2.2-mile road course is a rider’s dream, blending high-speed straights with technical corners that demand precision and courage. South Haven’s charm and GingerMan’s legacy as a testing ground for both amateurs and pros made it the perfect stage for the Bagger Racing
League’s high-stakes showdown, drawing fans from as far as Wyoming to witness the action.
The first day of racing’s ideal weather set the stage for a relentless battle in Round 5. The V-Twin and Bagger beasts roared to life, with riders pushing their machines to the edge across multiple classes. Fans packed the grandstands, buzzing with anticipation as the asphalt sizzled with competition.
In the Andrews Products Bagger GP class, Cody Gilmore stormed to victory, mastering the circuit with precision and power. For the Pirelli Pro-Stock Bagger class, Jake Masters held onto his point lead with a win ahead of Tony Tucker and Clayton Braun.
Brendan Foley blazed to the top of the Barnett Clutches & Cables Super-Street Bagger class, grabbing the checkers. Jake McGuire came in second place, followed by Nick Salmen in third. Other highlights included Tyler Elliot’s
The Bagger Racing League is a celebration of high-horsepower V-Twin culture. Competitors across the classes bring hard-hitting, redline-bumping track action to each and every round. Richard Gergely photo
Rider Carl Schlacht clinched the 2025 Zippers American Twins Unlimited class champion at GingerMan. Richard Gergely photo
Hey, that's Drag Specialties sales rep Mike Coury on #41 team Figurati Designs in the Barnett Super Street Bagger class. Coury made his inaugural entry into the series in 2025 and at press time sat at number four in the points run. Richard Gergely photo
victory in the American Twins Unlimited class with a commanding win. He was joined on the podium by Kurt Wilbur in the runner-up position, with Carl Schlacht in third.
In the Air Cooled Twins class, Anthony Bangma dominated with a masterclass in speed, earning his victory ahead of Jake McGuire, who placed second, with Robert Parker rounding up third. Finally, the DP Brakes Liquid Twins class was a blaze of excitement with David Lancaster powering through for the win. Vincent Wilson was second, and Drew Jankford placed third.
The next day saw sizzling action under scorching temperatures for Round 6. That Sunday dawned with South Haven alive and electric, with fans rolling into vendor row for a day of racing. With temperatures soaring near 90 degrees, the heat only amplified the intensity on the track.
Highlights include Cody Gilmore once again winning the premier Andrews Products Bagger GP. In the Pirelli ProStock Bagger, Jake Masters repeated his performance and continued his reign. Tony Tucker and Clayton Braun also went for a repeat, placing second and third, respectively.
For the riders in the Barnett Clutches & Cables SuperStreet Bagger class, the podium looked familiar with Brendan Foley on the top followed by Jake McGuire in second and Nick Salmen in third.
The Zippers American Twins Unlimited class welcomed a new winner to the top of the podium as Anthony Bangma stole the show with a precision-driven win. Tony Tucker followed shortly in second place, with Tyler Elliott in third.
While Bangma won the round, it was Carl Schlacht’s third place finish in Round 5 and seventh in Round 6 that helped him clinch the title. Schlacht is now the two-time Zippers American Twins Unlimited Champion.
2025 AMA BAGGER CHAMPIONSHIP
Suburban Motors HarleyDavidson/Slyfox rider
Jake Masters celebrates the first of two wins at GingerMan in the Pirelli Pro Stock Bagger class. Richard Gergely image
The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course roared with the thunder of V-twin engines as the Bagger Racing League delivered an electrifying spectacle at the 2025 AMA Bagger Championships, held during the Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days on July 25-27. Despite intermittent rain and humid conditions, riders showcased the power and precision of their modified touring motorcycles on the freshly resurfaced 2.4-mile, 15-turn circuit.
Marking its second year at the event, the BRL doubled its bike entries from 2024, cementing Bagger Racing’s rise. Renowned motocross and flat track rider Carson Brown made a thrilling appearance in the Production Stock class, adding star power to the 30th annual AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, which drew an estimated 40,000 enthusiasts.
“I’ve never ridden a bike this big, every lap I felt better, and I’m stoked to finish on the podium on the Suburban Motors HD and All Balls Road Glide,” said Brown.
LeMans Corporation Vice President, Sales & Marketing Paul Devine enjoys a day at the races at GingerMan Raceway. Richard Gergely image
From left: Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson/Slyfox rider Cody Gilmore has a post-race talk with BRL founder Rob Buydos. Gilmore celebrated back-to-back victories in the premier Andrews Products Bagger GP class for rounds 5 and 6. Flowing SJ image
Since 1962, Mid-Ohio’s 380-acre track in Lexington, Ohio, has been a motorsports icon. Its challenging layout – with corners like the Keyhole and Carousel – has tested riders’ skills, especially on the slick, recently resurfaced track, blending vintage motorcycling nostalgia with modern Bagger racing.
The 2025 Permco AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days was a vibrant celebration of two-wheeled heritage. Intermittent showers, high humidity and thunderstorms created slick track surfaces and muddy spectator areas, but fans remained undeterred, exploring swap meets, bike shows, and cheering on racers. Social media buzzed, with one attendee calling it “the ultimate motorcycle festival.”
In the Production Stock class, Cody Gilmore dominated aboard his Bridgestone/Suburban Motors Bagger, navigating the wet track with precision for a commanding victory. Jake Masters of Slyfox/Suburban Motors took second with steady control. Carson Brown (All Balls/ Suburban Motors),
a motocross and flat track icon, thrilled fans with a skillful ride to third aboard his flashy new Bagger.
“I came here last year, there was some good competition and I’m happy to come out on top. Cool vibes and it’s fun to be here,” Gilmore said.
In the Super Street class, Brendan Foley extended his unbeaten streak, clinching victory for Performance Machine/Suburban Motors despite a critical transmission failure during practice. The Suburban Motors team, led by Joe Houpt, worked tirelessly to replace the faulty transmission. Their efforts earned them the prestigious Top Tech Award from Motion Pro.
Jake McGuire of Death Metal Racing/Speed Farm pushed Foley for second, while Carl Schlacht of Hawg Halters Inc./ Speed Farm took third.
“Jake McGuire was determined to hold me off, he made me work for this one,” Foley said. “It felt good.”
The Bagger Racing League is all about V-Twin performance, and rider Cody Gilmore has plenty of that on display. Gilmore won the Product Stock Bagger class at the 2025 AMA Bagger Championship. Richard Gergely photo
The BRL’s second year at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days saw bike entries double, reflecting Bagger racing’s surge.
“The fans’ energy and riders’ skill made this unforgettable,” said BRL founder Rob Buydos.
“Mechanical challenges like those faced by Foley and Wurz highlight the grit of our teams.”
Canadian photographer Richard Gergely braved the elements to capture the action.
The AMA Bagger Championships thank their sponsors: Alpinestars, Andrews Products, Barnett Clutches & Cables, Bridgestone Moto USA, Burns Stainless, Drag Specialties, DP Brakes Racing, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, Figurati Designs, FDR Foundation, Hogtunes Inc., Lifestyle Cycles, Memphis Shades, Motion Pro, Newcastle Harley-Davidson, Pirelli Moto USA, Rox Speed FX, Suburban Motors HarleyDavidson, UltraCool, and Zipper’s Performance.
Next up for the BRL is the final double-header September 19-20 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The weekend will featuring epic rides, plenty of parties and an awards ceremony for the victors and competitors. ■
Brendan Foley won the Super Street Bagger class title at the 2025 AMA Bagger Champions at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course during AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Richard Gergely image
It's Cody Gilmore at the top of the podium for the Production Stock Bagger class at Mid-Ohio. Joining him was Jake Masters in second place, followed by Carson Brown in third. Richard Gergely image
Brendan Foley celebrates his win in the Super Street Bagger class at Mid-Ohio, Jake McGuire came in second place with Carl Schlacht rounding out third. Richard Gergely image
Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson's Joe Houpt (center left) receives the Top Tech Award from Motion Pro's Chris Carter (center right). Houpt and company jumped into action during practice to replace the transmission in champion Brendan Foley's motorcycle. Richard Gergely image
From left: Six-time AMA Motocross Champion and Hall of Famer Broc Glover, BRL founder Rob Buydos, Motion Pro founder and ISDT gold medalist Chris Carter, and AMA chief operating officer James Holter. Richard Gergely photo
A Racing-Derived Carbon Fiber Line From Competition to Customers
Rdecided to get into V-Twin roadracing back in 2020, the company pulled out all the stops to put together a competitive program. Now, street riders can benefit from that all-in approach with the new line of Saddlemen Performance Carbon Fiber.
Dealers at NVP Milwaukee got a first look at the front and rear fenders, dash consoles, side covers and other components available in the new carbon fiber collection. As expected, there are fitments for the most popular Harley-Davidson models, including Dyna, FXR, Softail and Touring applications. And, most notably, there are Touring fitments for the most popular models all the way back to 2008. That means riders on older bikes can still go for the performance look.
“If you look at Harley’s top-of-the-line models, they now include carbon fiber parts on them,” says Saddlemen’s Tom Monroe. “Our carbon fiber brings that technology to anybody’s 2018 and later Softail or older Dyna or FXR. They can now have some of that high-end, top-of-the-line performance look and feel.”
For the most part, the carbon fiber components are direct replacement, meaning it’s easy to swap out the OEM parts for a custom part that’s stronger and lighter.
Saddlemen’s Racing Development arm initially set out to design carbon fiber parts solely for the racing effort. When MotoAmerica announced a one-off King of the Baggers race, Saddlemen was focused on building the best V-Twin race bike it could.
Working on a Road Glide platform, Saddlemen entered the King of the Baggers race with a bike that pushed the rulebook to its absolute limits. The rules for that first event were somewhat vague, so the Saddlemen Road Glide debuted with all the high-power, low-weight mods possible. In fact, when the race was such a hit that it was turned into a full series the following season (and launched the Performance Bagger movement), the Road Glide had to have weight added to it in order to fit the guidelines of the new, more specific rulebook.
One of the reasons the Road Glide was so lightweight was the extensive use of carbon fiber, developed for the fairing, saddlebags and many chassis components. The
Your Softail customers can upgrade their bikes with a suite of Saddlemen’s Performance Carbon Fiber products in a gloss finish, including a rear fender, a front fender, side covers and a dash console (fits Low Rider S/ST and Breakout).
GLOSS FINISH
parts, making the bike tough as well as fast.
and took the 2024 Super Hooligan championship with rider Cory West on board a highly customized Harley Pan America. This year, Team Saddlemen riders scored both second and third in the championship.
“A lot of that stuff just didn’t exist,” Monroe says. “We have a talented staff of engineers, designers and motorcycle builders who were able to make it all happen.” Saddlemen needed more than just the team to design and build it all, though. The company acquired an autoclave to facilitate production of the new carbon fiber parts and got to work making new molds.
“Little by little and piece by piece, we developed parts that we realized would work well and look good on a street bike, too,” Monroe continues. For the past few years, Saddlemen’s carbon fiber development has branched out to include private label parts for other companies, including OEM manufacturers and other racing teams. And, more recently, Saddlemen has introduced its own line of custom parts for Harley-Davidson street bikes.
Combining racing technology with a long history of showwinning custom bikes, Saddlemen has created a line that blends light weight and strength with show-quality looks.
Team Saddlemen has continued to grow, expanding into a multi-bike effort. After MotoAmerica introduced the Super Hooligan series, Team Saddlemen jumped in
Motorsports has been a cornerstone of Saddlemen for decades. From sponsoring teams and riders to developing specialty parts, the Saddlemen name has been a part of flat track and other forms of racing for more than 20 years. Saddlemen’s fiberglass parts for flat track are still popular in that segment of racing.
Over the years, Saddlemen had occasionally ventured into roadracing, which helped the company develop its sportbike seats. “Then when the Bagger thing hit five years ago, it was a natural progression for us,” Monroe says. “We’d been involved in some roadracing here and there, but this was a chance to get directly involved on a global stage, and that was exciting.”
Now, with a championship to the Saddlemen name and the new carbon fiber line for street bikes, things continue to get more exciting – for on-track competition, dealers and customers. ■
» Learn more about the new Saddlemen Performance Carbon Fiber line from your Drag rep, and check out all of Saddlemen’s products in the FatBook and OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
The Saddlemen Performance Carbon Fiber line also includes products in a matte finish, offering a slight styling tweak to those go-fast Softail products. Whether gloss or matte, your customers are assured a nice performance and style upgrade.
2025 Mission King of the Baggers Update
WYMAN ON VERGE OF BAGGERS CHAMPIONSHIP
Brian J. Nelson photo
With a 97-point lead, and only 100 points available in the final two rounds (four races) of the Mission King of the Baggers Championship, Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing’s Kyle Wyman will likely clinch his second championship in the big V-Twin class in race one at Circuit of The Americas in September.
Wyman’s points lead was already massive when the series rolled into Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for the sixth round of the eight-round championship. Wyman finished third in race one and second in race two – wait, no he didn’t.
On track it was defending Mission King of the Baggers Champion Troy Herfoss and his S&S/Indian Motorcycle Challenger who crossed the finish line first with Wyman second. But that result wouldn’t stand. Herfoss’ Challenger was found to be in violation of Section 2.3.19 of the MotoAmerica/AMA Road Racing/FIM North America Regulations. Herfoss appealed the decision, but that appeal was denied.
The win was Wyman’s seventh of the season, and the 25th of his Baggers career, and he will arrive in COTA with one hand on the number-one plate.
Herfoss’ DQ drops him to third in the championship, one spot behind his class-rookie teammate, Frenchman Loris Baz. Baz is 97 points behind Wyman and six ahead of Herfoss.
While Harley-Davidson looks set to win the all-important Mission King of the Baggers Championship, thanks to Wyman’s
dominant season, its rival Indian Motorcycle looks set to lock down three of the top five in the championship.
The third of the Indian Challengers ridden by Tyler O’Hara is fourth in the championship, with the Californian ending up second in race two at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course following his teammate’s DQ. O’Hara is 10 points behind Baz and 20 ahead of Mid-Ohio race-one winner Hayden Gillim.
Gillim and his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson were impressive in Ohio, winning race one and battling with Herfoss for victory in race two until running off track on the final lap. He would end up fifth.
Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing’s James Rispoli is sixth, just five points behind Gillim and three ahead of RevZilla/ Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson’s Rocco Landers.
Brit Bradley Smith was knocked out of the two races at Mid-Ohio when he crashed his Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide during qualifying, breaking four ribs in the process.
SDI Racing’s Cameron Petersen went from fourth to third in race two at Mid-Ohio with Herfoss’ DQ and his second podium finish of the year placing him in a tie with Saddlemen Race Development’s Cory West for ninth.
While it looks like the battle for the 2025 Mission King of the Baggers Championship is basically done and dusted, the war between Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle will rage on. ■
Harley-Davidson rider Kyle Wyman (#33) leads Indian's Loris Baz (#76) and teammate James Rispoli (#43) into a turn in Race 2 at Mid-Ohio.
SOUND GREAT, BE SEEN
AUDIO AND LIGHTING PRODUCTS FOR V-TWINS
When it comes to customizing a HarleyDavidson motorcycle, there’s usually a heavy focus on horsepower and torque. However, there’s a whole other aspect of a custom build that deserves your customers attention
Drag Specialties Brand
The FatBook and the OldBook are chockful of suppliers and products designed specifically to improve the sound systems and visibility on your customers’ bikes. The range includes everything from wiring harnesses and speakers
When out on a motorcycle, visibility is the name of the game. These rear LED turn signal inserts are an excellent way to upgrade bulb-style stock turn signals. The results are turn signals that are bright and highly visible. This plugand-play design comes in amber or red lighting and one option functions as a dim red running light, with full intensity brake and/or turn signal function.
DEI
When your customers are updating their speakers, let them know about the Boom Mat speaker baffles from DEI. These install behind the speakers to maximize speaker performance by isolating correct frequencies. They also provide a water-tight protective shell and help dampen vibrations in fairings and saddlebags.
look features bright, piercing LEDs for great visibility and style. The GOAT-E light is a simple installation, plugging into the OE wiring in the fairing.
Klock Werks
Installing a Dynamat® Sound Control Kit from Klock Werks will help reduce wind, engine and vibration noise so your customers’ music, GPS and calls come through loud, clear and crisp. There are saddlebag and fairing kits for HarleyDavidson and Indian models that require no measuring or cutting, and are easy to install.
Custom Dynamics
Your customers can upgrade their bikes with the Custom Dynamics ProBEAM Taillight, available in sleek low-profile or classic squareback styles. They feature quick plug-and-play installation, multiple tag illumination options, and smoked or red lenses for any model or style.
Koso’s new Zenith plug-and-play LED headlight for HarleyDavidson features a built-in mounting ring for an easy installation. It is a great upgrade for a motorcycle’s style and visibility. look and safety. It has a lightweight, durable die-cast housing that is a direct fit, and it is DOT/SAE certified.
KICKER Audio
KICKER Audio offers a onetwo punch for upgrading a Harley-Davidson’s sound system. The company’s KMXL speakers are designed for fairings or saddlebags. Their rugged design gives them smooth sonic performance, even at high volumes.
The KPX300.4 4-Channel Amplifier is designed to deliver tremendous audio power from a true, tiny, weather-resistant
NAMZ offers a big range of electrical and audio components and supplies. The range includes the AM/FM aluminum stubby antenna with carbon fiber insert. It’s a plug-and-play part that fits any HarleyDavidson model with an existing audio antenna. The company also offers an OEM-style Tour pack rear speaker harness for 2006-2010 models with Harmon Kardon radio and a factory speaker equipped Tour pack.
Badlands
Badlands’ Run, Brake and Turn Signal Module is a plug-and-play device that turns stock or custom turn signals into running lights and brake lights, while still maintaining turn signal functions. It’s a great addition for increasing a Harley-Davidson’s visibility from the rear. A built-in load equalizer works with stock signals and can run the smallest custom signals, even LEDs.
RidePower
Smartphones are as much a part of a customer’s riding kit as gloves and sunglasses, and with Ride Power’s wireless phone mount those devices can stay charged while out on the road. A great addition for using a smartphone as a GPS or audio device, the mounts feature inductive wireless charging and a highly adjustable mounting system.
NAMZ
KOSO
Taillights on Tour
Checking out Lighting Upgrades at Sturgis
When you ride somewhere, you never know who might be checking out your bike. The Custom Dynamics team was at Sturgis this year, and they had fun spotting the company’s lighting solutions on bikes at places all over town.
The Custom Dynamics crew took notice at not just the number of bikes running the ProBEAM Taillights, but also at what a wide variety of models had them. These plug-and-play lights, available as Low Profile, Squareback and CVO-style versions, are designed to fit the look of any bike, whether it’s a stock model or a full custom.
Bikes in both of those categories – and everything in between – were spotted at Sturgis with the ProBEAM Taillights on them. What was especially notable were the Harley-Davidson TriGlide models running the taillight setup. Dealers can accommodate these trikes by ordering two of any “no tag illumination window” options for the ProBEAM Taillights.
“We’re super proud of repping Custom Dynamics and seeing all our stuff out there,” says Custom Dynamics Chief Sales Officer Rob Bluma. “The feedback we get from customers when we encounter them is how much they like it, how easy it is to install, how bright everything is and that it flows with their bikes.”
Bluma is quick to add that spotting Custom Dynamics products “in the wild” is about more than enjoying the praise. It’s also about planning for the future. He says, “Getting feedback from the real users is how we determine where we’re going next.”
Installation of the ProBEAM taillights is easy enough that a rider can tackle the project in their home garage. Just two screws and a single connector are all that goes into swapping from a stock taillight to the LED light pipes that provide a big upgrade in both style and brightness.
Many riders at Sturgis went a more convenient route, getting the taillights installed by dealers who were on site to provide service.
“Riders were not just getting the taillights installed this year, either; many riders commented on running the ProBEAM taillight for years,” says Bluma. “Due to the highquality components, Custom Dynamics products stand the test of time when it comes to lighting and electrical items. We also offer a lifetime warranty so dealers and riders can have confidence in our durability and service.”
The ProBEAM taillights provide both running lights and full-contrast brake illumination. A red or smoked lens helps a rider get the look that suits their bike best, whether it’s got a modern look or a vintage vibe. ■
» Learn more about the versatility of ProBEAM taillights from Custom Dynamics by talking to your Drag rep. Find the three styles and all the applications in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
At the Sturgis Rally this year, the Custom Dynamics crew took notice of the bikes running the ProBEAM Taillights, and the wide variety of models that had them. Of note were the Harley TriGlide models – a setup that features a pair of the plug-and-play lights with the “no tag illumination window” option.
The ProBEAM taillights provide both running lights and fullcontrast brake illumination. A red or smoked lens helps a rider get the look that suits their bike best.
Keeping Sturgis Rolling Tire Installs were a Brisk Business
Plenty of the riders who attended Sturgis cruised home with a new set of Metzeler tires, thanks to on-site installations happening at J&P Cycles throughout the rally. The Metzeler team came away from the 85th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally feeling excited, if a little exhausted, after an incredibly busy event. Busy is good, and the crowds who packed Main Street were consistent, showing that this year’s Sturgis rally was strong. Metzeler had a presence at both J&P Cycles and Buffalo Chip, and in addition to the great attendance, the team also noticed a nice mix of Sturgis veterans as well as first-time attendees.
A storm swept through the Black Hills just ahead of opening weekend, but after that, it was blue skies and warm summerriding weather. Riders were eager to take in the bike shows, concerts and vendors, but it was also a great opportunity to get out and ride through the spectacular scenery.
“The vibe at this year’s Sturgis Rally has been amazing — Main Street has been crowded, the weather has been great, and riders have had a lot of positive feedback,” said Brian Davenport, Metzeler Tires during the Rally.
The 2025 Sturgis rally is in the history books and Metzeler reports that the vibe was strong and business was good with both Rally veterans and newcomers. One highlight was installing a Metzeler ME888 in a rare 180/5021 front size on a custom built by Southern Country Customs, the North Carolina-based shop co-owned by NASCAR legend Rusty Wallace.
The Metzeler booth stayed busy throughout the rally, and plenty of riders were able to do their sightseeing on a brand-new set of Metzeler Cruisetec or ME888 tires. The on-site installations were a great way for riders to ensure they had nothing but smooth sailing for the trip home.
Luckily, the Metzeler team planned ahead and packed more than just the standard tire sizes for V-Twins.
“One of the highlights was installing a Metzeler ME888 in a rare 180/50-21 front size – a fitment that’s tough to find but increasingly common on custom builds,” Davenport said. “Metzeler is proud to provide a tire that looks great and performs well. For dealers, it’s also good to know these tires, along with the entire Metzeler lineup, are easily available through Drag Specialties.”
Word is getting around that Metzeler offers the ME888 in this unusual size. One of the more notable custom bikes that features the 180/50-21 size is one built by Southern Country Customs, the North Carolina-based shop co-owned by NASCAR legend Rusty Wallace.
Tires and parts for custom bikes were the norm at J&P Cycles, where Metzeler’s custom partners, like Arlen Ness Motorcycles, were also doing a brisk business throughout the rally. That vendor area was a hot spot, and plenty of riders wanted to upgrade their bikes before heading out on a ride or hitting the Buffalo Chip to watch a concert. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep about Metzeler tires for V-Twins, including unusual sizes ideal for custom bikes. You can find all the options in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
METZELER CRUISETEC
Upgrade Your Ride with the Metzeler Cruisetec, the ultimate V-Twin tire engineered for unparalleled performance. Whether cruising through winding roads or navigating city streets, the Cruisetec’s dualcompound rubber and advanced carcass construction ensure maximum grip and stability in all conditions. Elevate your riding experience and confidently conquer the road, knowing that the Metzeler Cruisetec has your back. Available from Drag Specialties dealers nationwide.
Design Flash Custom Street Glide Fairing Light
Iconic design is ingrained in the Harley-Davidson name. Designers have been walking the line between next-gen style and heritage with every new generation model released. It’s truly impressive that riders can see a 1985 or 2025 Street Glide and almost immediately recognize it as an FLHX, despite the 40-year time gap.
Ciro has followed in Harley’s footsteps, bringing the same design attributes while helping new-model Street Glide customers leave their mark with its Quill™ LED fairing lights.
Quill fairing lights will turn heads and grab attention with bold but sleek placement right on the front of the legendary Batwing fairing. True customization involves creating things that were never there, and that’s exactly what Ciro envisioned for new Street Glides with Quill lights. When asked about them, Chris Lindloff, Product Designer, explained, “A bold new bike requires bold new lighting and that’s exactly what the Quills are.”
Ultra-bright white running LEDs let other road-goers know riders are there day and night, plus, integrated amber turn signals add seamless functionality. Ciro supports its dealers and customers to the fullest effort with
abundant product support, including detailed installation instructions, installation videos and an overall design that delivers plug-and-play functionality.
Your customers can take ultimate control of their Quill lights with Ciro’s Lightstrike COMMANDER™ and corresponding app, Ciro Central Hub. This free app and COMMANDER module act as a smart controller for Quill lights, unlocking seemingly endless programming options, including power and run animations, color temperature control, brightness and frequency adjustments and more. This functionality allows customers to double down on customization without interfering with any of their bike’s OEM electronics.
If they’re more interested in the custom light look with simple functions, customers can use Ciro’s standard wire adapter designed to provide essential lighting functions, including running lights and turn signals for a quick and seamless connection.
Quill fairing lights are available in black or chrome bezel finishes to complement whichever look your customers are running. They feature Ciro’s GHOST lens technology for consistent and smooth light disbursement and are supplied with pre-installed, high-strength adhesive to make mounting easy and painless, shaving even more time off the install job.
Ciro really nailed it with the design of Quill lights, tailoring them specifically for Batwing fairings. It’s a look that your Street Glide customers likely wouldn’t have envisioned themselves, but once they see it, it’s a look they just might want to have. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details on these and many other accessories from Ciro, and check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Ciro Quill LED fairing lights offer an attentiongrabbing upgrade for the legendary Harley Batwing fairing.
Ciro’s Quill fairing lights feature ultra-bright white running LEDs and integrated amber turn signals. Ciro offers further customization for controlling the Quill lights with the Lightstrike COMMANDER module and corresponding app.
No Slip Grip
Sure-Footed Stainless Steel Cleats
The THRASHIN’ Aggressor Foot Controls are designed to provide maximum traction, and a marked upgrade from the rubber-clad stock floorboards. Stainless steel cleats make your customers’ feet stay planted during spirited riding.
The stock, rubber-clad floorboards on stock Harley-Davidsons have their place. For some riders the rubber’s vibration damping is appreciated, and the smooth surface has enough grip for relaxed riding. Crank up the speed and intensity, however, and those stock boards are just too slippery. Aggressive riders need to get rid of the rubber and get THRASHIN’ Supply Company’s new Aggressor Foot Controls so their boots don’t slip.
The THRASHIN’ Aggressor Foot Controls are designed to provide maximum traction. The entire lineup, which includes floorboards, mini boards, footpegs and brake and shifter pads, all feature stainless steel cleats that stick to boot and shoe soles. The added grip gives your customers improved feel and control, whether they’re attacking corners or just cruising across town.
From the Aggressor Floorboards to the Mini Floorboards to the Foot Pegs, your customers can choose the size that
suits their bike and riding style. “These parts are designed for your customers’ Harley-Davidson models, and they’re milled from 6061 billet aluminum and offered in anodized gold, black, red, and chrome,” says THRASHIN’ owner Lance Coury.
The full-size Floorboards use THRASHIN’s 12-inch by 4½-inch foot-shaped platform and have 24 stainless cleats per board, which means there’s no risk of slipping on these decks, no matter how forceful the input. Super-detailed milling leaves these boards with an attractive stepped taper, and the thin overall design helps increase cornering clearance on Touring models such as the Road Glide, Road King and Street Glide.
Moving down the size scale and into models like the Dyna, FXR, Softail and Sportster models, the Mini Floorboards provide a smaller platform that still has outstanding grip thanks to 20 cleats per floorboard. These Mini Floorboards measure 4¾-inches long by 3½-inches wide and have a cutaway design that boosts cornering clearance. The Minis also work well as passenger pegs on Touring models.
The Aggressor Footpegs are an even smaller option for maximum maneuverability, and measure 3½-inches wide by 2¼-inches long while still offering 12 cleats per footpeg.
Completing the Aggressor lineup and rounding out your customer’s grip upgrade are the Brake Pad, Brake Pedal and Shifter Tip. The Brake Pad works with the OEM Touring brake arm and measures 4¾-inches wide by 2¾-long, with a total of 14 cleats. The Aggressor Brake Arm Pedal is 3¼-inches wide by 1.675-inches long and is specifically designed to work with THRASHIN’s Adjustable Bagger Brake Arm. Finally, there’s the Aggressor Shifter Tip, with its cleats on top for downshifts and a smooth surface on the bottom to preserve boots and shoes during upshifts. ■
» To learn more, call your Drag rep and check out the FatBook and www.dragspecialties.com.
The Aggressor lineup also includes mini boards, footpegs and brake and shifter pads, all featuring the same hold-fast cleat design.
Police Special Restoring Harleys with a History of Service
For Luke Harms, restoring a Harley-Davidson police bike is like being an archaeologist. Every police bike, he says, was customized by its rider, and his job is to discover why the changes were made, and what it can tell him about that person. Most recently, Harms restored a 1967 FL police bike equipped with an Avon Safety Mileage rear tire.
Like all of his projects, Harms wants to maintain those personal touches when possible. He enjoys the challenge of figuring out why something is no longer stock, even if it’s as simple as bolts that aren’t OEM.
“I try to keep the original nostalgia to the bike,” Harms says. “No two police bikes are the same. The lore is that policemen would customize the bike to themselves. So, each one is unique and has its own accessories that cater to the rider.”
Harms inherited his appreciation for vintage police bikes from his dad, who owned one and helped Harms learn to do his own restoration projects. Harms has been restoring 1960s police bikes now for about 25 years, but he’s been riding for a lot longer than that.
“I’ve been motorcycling since I could walk with my dad and mom,” Harms says. “So, it’s always come natural to have this hobby and to build bikes, restore bikes, sell bikes – and to keep bikes.”
The ’67 FL is one Harms plans to keep. He names each bike he restores, and this one has been dubbed Police Donnie in a nod to a friend. The bike was an exciting find
When builder Luke Harms set out to restore this 1967 HarleyDavidson police bike, he opted for an Avon Safety Mileage rear tire for their quality, performance and classic styling.
for Harms; he lives in Columbus, Ohio, and even though the seller was local to him, it was originally a California police bike.
“California police bikes were very well documented,” Harms explains. “There’s a lot of historical photos and historical knowledge, so having one is a little more special. Being able to restore one has been a true joy.”
Harms chose to use an Avon Safety Mileage rear tire on the ’67. It was his first time using an Avon tire, but it’s not likely to be the last. “I’ve always wanted to put an Avon tire on a bike,” Harms says. “This recent build, I put one on, and I think they’re good tires, good quality, and really good styling.”
Like many builders (and motorcyclists) there’s always that one bike you want to keep. For Luke Harms, this 1967 Harley police bike is the one. It’s a classic California police bike by way of Columbus, Ohio and it prominently features an Avon Safety Mileage rear tire.
The Safety Mileage has a timeless style that looks right at home on the police bike, and it will let Harms ride confidently on it. And, chances are, he’ll be riding this bike to go check out future restoration projects. Police bikes can be hard to find, but for Harms, that’s a part of the thrill. “It’s the hunt for the bike, it’s the hunt for the parts,” he says of his continued passion for police bike restorations. ■
» Learn more about Avon Safety Mileage tires by talking to your Drag rep. You can find them in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
TO STAND OUT
With their snakeskin-effect tread, Avon Cobra Chrome tyres certainly stand out. And with a 5% larger tyre footprint you can expect better traction and shorter stopping distances, even in the wet. Available in a wide range of sizes including WhiteWalls, Avon Cobra Chrome can help you make your mark.
Going It Alone
New Front and Rear Solo Seats
Installing a solo seat gives a bike an instant classic look. The solo seat never goes out of style, and now, Drag Specialties Seats has new options for Touring/Dresser riders who want to go it alone or have the option to take along a passenger.
With the new Drag Seats solo seat with an optional EZ Glide II Backrest and two solo rear seat options, riders have added flexibility when it comes to the seat configuration.
The new solo seat and two rear seats are all made from a molded polyurethane foam for outstanding comfort and styling. That foam is topped by a high-quality, automotive-grade vinyl cover. Underneath, the 3/16-inch ABS thermoformed seat base ensures a perfect fit on the bike, while the carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers provide a protective barrier between the seat and the bike’s paint job. The wide range of fitments aren’t just for newer bikes; plenty of older-model applications can be found in the OldBook.
And, like every product available from Drag Specialties Seats, these new solo seat options are made in the USA.
The new solo seat has a deep 5½ inches of driver back support for plenty of comfort on the road, and the unique styling keeps this solo seat from being boring. The optional EZ Glide II backrest is available in both small and large sizes, and it further adds to a rider’s comfort.
In addition to the backrest, the new solo seat is also compatible with the narrow and wide solo rear seats that are now available from Drag Specialties Seats. These rear seat options work with FL solo front seats that feature plug-in
backrests. A big perk of this setup is that it’s quick and easy to go from a single-rider setup to a two-up configuration.
“Many riders enjoy the nice clean look of our solo front if they are riding alone, but then they can easily add the rear pad any time they have a passenger,” says Garen Altman, Drag Specialties Seats. “Another cool benefit is the narrow or wide pad can be stored in their saddlebag for easy access.”
Riders who want to upgrade their seat can opt for Drag’s exclusive Solar Leather cover. “The major benefit of that, unlike other seats, is it doesn’t get as hot in the sun,” Altman explains. “We like to say it is like parking your bike in the shade.”
Drag Specialties Seats offers Touring/Dresser solo seats and pads to suit a wide range of different models as well as riders’ varying tastes. These newest options add to the already robust list of possibilities. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep about the latest solo front and rear seats from Drag Specialties Seats. Explore them all in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Drag Specialties Seats new solo seat not only features the brand’s wellknown comfort and style, it can also be paired with an options EZ Glide II backrest for miles of rider comfort.
The new Drag Specialties Seats solo seat is also compatible with the company’s new narrow and wide rear solo seats.
to precise standards with
PREDATOR III 2-UP SEAT WITH EXTENDED REACH FOR FL MODELS
The new Predator III 2-up Extended Reach seat moves the rider back 11/2" compared to the stock seat, for those with a longer inseam. It also features a 61/4" tall driver support and solar-reflective leather in the seating area with automotive-grade vinyl on the sides. The molded polyurethane foam provides maximum comfort and has a narrow driver’s cut for better leg clearance.
Available in Smooth solar reflective leather, Smooth vinyl or Double Diamond Stitch vinyl with black, silver or red thread. See the complete selection at seats.dragspecialties.com.
Additional coverings, thread colors and stitch patterns are available through our custom order program.
Ride the RUFFIAN Legendary Traction, Supreme Comfort
The RUFFIAN grip range from ODI has reached icon status in the two-wheel pedal bike world among many disciplines of cycling. A proven performer for downhill mountain bike rippers, the RUFFIAN is also a go-to choice for BMX blasters of all stripes.
Now ODI is taking aim at spirited V-Twin riders looking for that legendary grip and comfort by introducing its iconic RUFFIAN grip pattern into the patented Lock-On grip system. That means when your customers are twisting the throttle and letting it all hang out, their hands will be firmly planted.
Constructed of ODI’s proprietary Medium Compound TPE material and featuring the company’s legendary RUFFIAN Full-Knurl diamond pattern, these grips provide exceptional feedback and traction. ODI has taken its classic RUFFIAN pattern and made it specific for V-Twin performance with that slim feel riders and racers have come to love!
The RUFFIAN full-knurl diamond pattern looks subtle, but offers more than the sum of its parts in a thin profile grip that delivers amazing control and finesse. Not only does it perform, the RUFFIAN Lock-On grips’ proprietary compound improves overall comfort and durability. This means more miles and more smiles.
The RUFFIAN Lock-On in-molded throttle tube features integrated, application-specific throttle actuation. Over on
Popular with riders in many forms of two-wheeling, the legendary Ruffian grip from ODI is now available for V-Twin riders.
the clutch side, that Lock-On feature provides simple installation and removal, and once locked-in, it’s locked on.
There are exact fitments for a range of new model throttleby-wire Indian and Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as well as for 1984 and new cable-actuated Harley models.
The RUFFIAN Lock-On grip system joins ODI’s family of Lock-On grips, which includes the ever-popular Vans and Hart-Luck full-waffle V-Twin grips.
That classic Vans waffle pattern has been an integral part of the action sports world since the beginning and ODI teamed up with the famous footwear company on a grip featuring an updated version for supreme comfort and control.
ODI also teamed up with freestyle legend Carey Hart to launch V-Twin Lock-On Full-Waffle grips. The grips provide amazing traction and comfort and provide a good amount of vibration dampening. They also look fantastic.
The V-Twin Lock-On System quickly installs and delivers a grip that is completely secure on the handlebars. Instead of using set screws, the Lock-On Collar clamps – essentially the grip’s flange – directly to the handlebars via T15 Torx bolts. The system has the same molding process for both clutch and throttle-side. ■
» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for more details about the new RUFFIAN Lock-On grip system, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
NO GRIP – NO GLORY! The 5-Time National Motocross and Supercross champion has outdone himself again. Redeveloping the all-time favorite to make it even better and produced to give you an even more amazing riding experience!
Full-Knurl diamond pattern, these grips
specific for V-Twin Performance
Our newest addition to the ODI v-Twin collection brings in our iconic RUFFIAN Grip pattern into our patented Lock-On™ grip system. Constructed of our proprietary Medium Compound TPE material and featuring our legendary Ruffian Full-Knurl diamond pattern, these grips provide exceptional feedback and traction. Taking our classic RUFFIAN pattern through all lines of powersports and now made specific for V-Twin Performance with a slim feel riders and racers have come to love!
Proprietary MediumCompound durometer improves overall comfort and durability.
Moto inspired grip designed for performance V-Twin
Legendary RUFFIAN Full-Knurl Diamond Pattern
Full Stop
Re-Imagining
the Brake Buying Experience
From performance pads and premium laser-cut rotors to its recently
GBrakes has set out to re-imagine the buying experience for both end users and dealers seeking a reliable source for American V-Twin brake components. From performance pads and premium laser-cut rotors to its recently introduced Custom Rotor Configurator, the company continues to define its product lineup and simplify the purchase experience.
Giocar America, Inc., was formerly doing business as Galfer USA and serving as the master distributor for Galfer Spain. It has evolved its strategy to focus solely on developing its own brand of braking systems, GBrakes, a new high-performance line of brake products. This exciting initiative brings in a new era in motorcycle braking performance with race-proven technology and custombraking solutions for customers, builders and dealers.
popular product is its HH friction-rated Sintered Brake Pads. These pads use advanced composite materials to tolerate higher friction temperatures better than semi-metallic carbon units. The result is more feel at the front lever or rear pedal, and more modulation under heavy braking. This is ideal for more aggressive riding and handling the heavier loads inherent with larger V-Twin motorcycles. HH Sintered Brake Pads are a popular choice with HarleyDavidson Dyna, Softail, Sportster and Touring owners.
On the rotor side, the brand offers a host of OEM replacement and oversized options for V-Twin owners, including its original game-changing Wave® design. These discs lower operating temperatures and promote more uniform pad wear while saving weight over stock. The rotors are laser-cut, heat-treated and precision ground
“ Ask your Drag Specialties sales rep about participating in the GBrakes Custom Rotor Program.”
With an accumulated braking expertise of over 70 years, spanning three generations in the Milesi Family, the GBrakes team includes riders and racers who use their collective knowledge and experience to define product lines, model applications, and ensure each product fits and functions flawlessly.
“Beyond delivering quality products, we maintain strong U.S.-based tech support, industry-leading customer service and a commitment to helping dealers win customer loyalty and confidence,” adds Sandro Milesi, CEO of GBrakes. “For builders, restorers and one-off projects, we offer custom solutions built to spec for a perfect fit and beautiful finish. Ask your Drag Specialties sales rep about participating in the GBrakes Custom Rotor Program.”
for flatness in Spain, then shipped to the USA where all components, including U.S.-made carriers and buttons, are fully assembled.
With the introduction of its Custom Rotor Configurator, GBrakes makes it easier for dealers and their customers to create one-of-a-kind, bespoke brake rotor designs. Users choose a disc size and style and complete the look by selecting a color and finish for the rotor’s aluminum buttons and carrier. The result is a personalized rotor for your customer. Users complete a simple process to place the order, and the rotor is manufactured and shipped. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and check out the FatBook, the OldBook and go to www.dragspecialties.com.
One
With its Custom Rotor Configurator, GBrakes makes it easier for dealers and their customers to create one-of-a-kind, bespoke brake rotor designs.
introduced Custom Rotor Configurator, GBrakes continues to refine its brake product lineup and simplify the purchase experience.
FMake It a Combo
Windshield and Protectant Pair Nicely
or almost 20 years, the Flare® Windshield has turned heads and transformed rides. Designed by the Klock Werks Krew for fit, function and style, the Flare is more than just a good-looking upgrade, it’s a triple threat.
First, it complements the curves and stance of today’s motorcycles with a sleek, purposeful design. Second, its original patented shape reduces turbulent air by directing it up and over riders for a smoother, more comfortable ride. Third, it adds bug and rain deflection, tossing road debris and weather over the top so riders can stay focused.
If anything does manage to land on the bike, there is an easy solution. Shine Werks is Klock Werks’ signature Flare care-approved cleaner, formulated for windshields, paint, chrome and powder coat. While avoiding windshield damage to protect UV coating and avoid peeling, it cleans, shines and protects a variety of surfaces including plastic, leather, acrylic, plexiglass, Lexan, chrome, fiberglass and paint.
The invisible protective coating repels almost everything, helping the bike stay cleaner longer. It is scratch and mar resistant and leaves a streak-free finish safe for all surfaces, plus, it prevents fogging and repels water for crystal-clear visibility.
For dealers, pairing these two products together makes for an easy win. A Flare installation immediately upgrades
the overall look and performance of a customer’s bike, while Shine Werks helps them protect that investment. Stocking both products in the same display area tells a complete story. Demo windshields and trained staff allow customers to feel the ride difference firsthand, and a bottle of Shine Werks right beside the Flare makes the add-on sale almost automatic. Sales people love to sell what they know and trust.
The versatility does not stop there. Shine Werks works on everything from motorcycles to cars, trucks, boats, helmets, and even kitchen stainless appliances. It is gentle enough to protect premium finishes, yet tough enough to tackle the grime of the open road.
A customer once asked Brian Klock, “Why are there so many cleaning products at Sturgis this year?” Brian didn’t just shrug it off, he broke it down. “This one’s decent for dark paint, but it’s too greasy. That one works in the sun, but not everywhere. And when you’re taking care of a $30–40K investment, it has to be right.”
So, Brian’s response was simple: “Let me make you what you really need.” After more than 20 variations, Shine Werks was born; the product that finally delivered the results Brian had been chasing. Tested, refined, and built for riders who demand the best, Shine Werks hits the mark every time.
» Talk to your Drag rep about these products, a demo program and more, and check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
■
Pairing up a Klock Werks Flare Windshield with a bottle of Shine Werks cleaner ensures your customers get a tried-and-tested product that formulated to keep that windshield clean with crystalclear visibility.
Shine Werks is formulated for windshields, paint, chrome and powder coat. When used on a Flare Windshield, it is scratch and mar resistant and leaves a streak-free finish. It also prevents fogging and repels water.
The Trask Tornado Turbo System
Dealer-Ready Horsepower
The Trask Tornado Turbo Kit was built with one goal in mind – to deliver reliable and repeatable power that your customers can access through their local dealer. Designed specifically for Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Touring and Softail models, the Tornado Turbo is available exclusively through Drag Specialties. That means it can be ordered and installed through one of the largest and most trusted distribution networks in the industry.
This is the first time Trask has offered a full turbo system in a true dealer format. There is no guesswork or piecing together parts. The kit includes larger injectors, upgraded spark plugs, a boost gauge with mount, custom cam cover with oil feed and drain lines, ThunderMax tune files, and all required gaskets and hardware. Everything
The Trask Tornado Turbo Kit was built with one goal in mind – to deliver reliable and repeatable power that your customers can access through their local Drag Specialties dealer.
is engineered to work together, and built to handle the heat and pressure of real-world boost.
The Tornado is designed for Milwaukee-Eight engines 117 cubic inches and smaller. If your customers are running a big-bore setup or have plans to go larger, contact your Drag Specialties sales rep who can work with Trask Performance for a custom-fit turbo solution.
Everything in the Trask Tornado Turbo Kit is engineered to work together, and features everything needed to get it installed and up and running to deliver that power to your customers’ Milwaukee-Eight engines 117 cubic inches and smaller.
At the core of the system is Trask’s proven turbo technology. It captures exhaust gases and converts them into compressed intake air, dramatically increasing air volume and fuel delivery. The result is more horsepower, more torque and a broader powerband. The Tornado delivers that performance without compromising the feel or sound that riders expect from a Harley.
Boosted bikes require the right mix of airflow, fuel and tuning. The Tornado Turbo Kit is designed to bring all of those pieces together in one package. It is responsive and powerful but still smooth in traffic and on long runs. Whether your customers ride hard on the weekends or load up for cross-country miles, the Tornado adds power without sacrificing comfort or reliability.
It also includes smart details that matter over time. Heat management, oil routing and system efficiency have all been carefully engineered. Riders still need to follow regular maintenance and ride responsibly, but the components are built to last and made to be ridden.
The Tornado Turbo System is the most accessible turbo kit Trask has ever released. It delivers real horsepower gains, a clean installation, and proven durability. And now that it is available through Drag Specialties, getting one is easier than ever. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and check it out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
*Products with EMIS Code 1 are emission compliant in all states, including California. Products with EMIS Code 2 are emission compliant in all states except California. Products with EMIS Code 3 are “Competition Use” only, and not legal in any state for street use on any pollution-controlled vehicles. Products with EMIS Code 4 have no U.S. territory restrictions. See FatBook, pages 5, 6 and 7, for detailed Emissions Regulation information.
Clean, Protect and Shine Aerosols
Designed for the Task At Hand
Maintenance, cleaning, ride prep, repairs – the motorcycle to-do list can stack up quickly, but having the right materials in the shop helps. Just like having the right tools, quality chemicals can make a night-and-day difference tackling the job at hand. On top of its legendary oil lineup, Maxima’s line of aerosols are a welcome addition to any garage or shop cabinet.
We’d need a whole book to get into every product out of Maxima’s catalog. Let’s home in on how the brand can help customers start clean, protect and maintain performance, enhance and shine their ride, and finally, add the finishing touch.
First things first, starting with a clean bike makes all the difference. Miles on the road can bake on the dirt, road grime and bug guts that are tough to remove, but harsh cleaners can harm certain parts and finishes. Maxima’s Bio Wash is an all-purpose, biodegradable cleaner that can lift oil-based deposits and other grime while still being gentle enough for delicate surfaces like plastic, chrome, anodizing, carbon fiber and more.
Despite Bio Wash’s verstatility, certain parts of the bike need special attention, like the chain and sprocket. As the literal connection between the engine and the rear wheel, keeping chains clean and properly protected and lubricated is critical.
For this, Maxima’s chain-care combo kit is a no-brainer. This trio of chainfocused aerosols includes CleanUp, MPPL, and Chain Wax. CleanUp is an emulsion-type degreaser that works excellently for lifting oil and dirt out of the chain, washing out easily with water. Customers can use this while washing the rest of the bike, then follow it up with MPPL. Short for Multi-Purpose Penetrant Lube, MPPL is a penetrating lubricant that displaces water and leaves a layer of corrosion protection, which is especially important for steel chains.
Finally, Chain Wax can be applied before the ride. This proven chain lubricant uses a proprietary Parafilm formula that sprays on as a liquid, penetrates the surfaces and joints of the chain, then sets up as a soft, waxy film, leaving a layer of protection and durable lubrication that protects chains from the elements and helps them perform as intended.
“With highly popular products in all categories, it’s hard to overlook the strength of Maxima’s aerosol line,” said Trevor Reis of Maxima. “Our wide aerosol product line offers award winning SC1 high-gloss coating – with seemingly endless possibilities – to our market-renowned chain lube, Maxima Chain Wax.”
While that sums it up nicely, there’s still another step in the clean and prep process: shine. Widely known as “new bike in a can,” SC1 is a high-gloss coating that restores the factory shine and is formulated to protect every surface on your customers’ bikes, from plastic to rubber to paint and everything in between. ■
» Whatever the job of the day is, there’s a Maxima product designed to help. Talk to your Drag rep today and check the line out in the Tire & Service catalog and www.dragspecialties.com.
CLEAN: Maxima’s Bio Wash is an all-purpose, biodegradable cleaner that can lift oil-based deposits and other grime while still being gentle enough for delicate surfaces.
PROTECT: Maxima’s chain-care combo kit includes CleanUp, MPPL, and Chain Wax. Each product does its part to get a chain clean, give it a layer of corrosion protection and provide essential lubrication.
SHINE: Known as the “New Bike in a Can,” Maxima’s SC1 is a high-gloss coating that restores the factory shine and is formulated to protect every surface on your customers’ bikes.
V-TWIN OIL CHANGE KITS
Maxima Oil Change Kits are designed to ease the oil change process in your H-D® motorcycle. Each kit comes will all necessary products to complete a full oil change. Available for most modern V-Twin motorcycles.
PEAC additive system was developed by Maxima and tested with factory teams like Monster Energy Kawasaki & Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki. GUARANTEED BY MAXIMA RACING OILS / MADE
MMore Power
High
any people reading this already know S&S Cycle, Inc. offers nearly everything related to American V-Twin powerplants. Among the company’s popular product line are its carb rebuild kits, plus-size pistons, pushrods, lifters, and kicker covers as replacement parts offered for engines from Knuckles all the way to Twin-Cam models.
Performance
for V-Twin Powerplants
Perfect to reassemble carbs taken apart for inspection and cleaning after years of use, S&S Cycle’s *(EMIS Code 3) Carburetor Master Rebuild Kit fits S&S carbs for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The kits contain both gaskets and seals for Super E and G carbs.
Plus-size pistons are another S&S upgrade to use in refurbing an engine. As with the new over-bore stroker piston, the modern metallurgy and advanced skirt profiles allow a close piston fit delivering low engine noise and longer engine life. Your customers can fit these pistons to their existing cylinders or, if also purchasing new cylinders, S&S can supply them already sized.
S&S Cycle’s Quickee pushrods can be both installed and removed easily. The S&S design permits a simple, troublefree installation that does not require removal of the gas tank, rocker assemblies, or even the rocker box cover.
The threaded adjuster screws into the pushrod until the threads disengage and the adjuster simply slides in or out of the pushrod tube, making installation or removal a snap. Once the pushrod is installed and adjusted, the locknut prevents the adjuster from moving. It’s adjustable to accommodate all tappets and cam base circle diameters and engine height.
Speaking of tappets, S&S Cycle Precision Tappets are a high performance replacement for both the company’s previous standard and premium lifters for M8, Twin Cams and late Sportster applications. Each Precision Tappet is hand assembled to exacting tolerances and designed for reduced valve train noise, close tolerances for low leak-down rates, fast pump up, and superior high rpm performance.
Finally, S&S Cycle’s reproduction covers for 1940 - 1986 Big Twins are as close to original as you can get without
actually stealing one from a factory museum bike. While externally authentic to the smallest detail – they feature imperfections in the casting meticulously duplicated to represent the casting capabilities of the era – these covers are cast in 356-16 aluminum and CNC machined to achieve the quality standards for which S&S is known.
The inside of the cover is an all-new design, with additional material added around the kicker boss for strength and stability, a single bushing used for added rigidity, and a stealthy modern small-diameter seal hidden after assembly to prevent outer dry bushing seizures.
“S&S Cycle has always been about proven performance, but we also want to make sure you can keep older bikes on the road for years to come,” states Howard Kelly, Vice President of Marketing at S&S Cycle, Inc. “And, if our parts can make that older bike a bit fast, that is a good thing!” ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and learn more in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
S&S Cycle has Carburetor Master Rebuild Kit fits S&S carbs for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The kits contain both gaskets and seals for Super E and G carbs.
S&S Cycle’s Quickee pushrods can be both installed and removed without having to take off the gas tank, rocker assemblies, or even the rocker box cover.
Check out these reproduction kicker covers for 1940 - 1986 Big Twins. They are externally authentic, yet feature an updated design with modern features.
Introducing the next generation of Proven Performance for your 2018-2024 H-D® Softail® Models; the MK136B Engine. This is the newest version of the complete crate engines S&S is known for, ready to install in your M8 Softail. We took our MKB-Series Crankcases, married them to the 136” cylinders and flywheels, and then fit high-flow cylinder heads with +1mm Valves and .605” springs.
This is everything your customer needs to have the largest, most powerful, and most reliable balanced crate engine on the market today.
FULL SERVICE, ALL HORSEPOWER
It’s never a slow moment at Kelly’s Performance Specialists, with customers coming from near and far.
KELLY’S PERFORMANCE SPECIALISTS: KINGMAN, ARIZONA
Thomas “Kelly” Kelly spends every day at the business that he founded back in 1969 in a space that was the size of a two-car garage.
Now, Kelly’s Performance Specialists of Kingman, Arizona operates as a six-person team inside an 8,500 sq. ft. space specializing in Harley-Davidson service, engine building, parts procurement, specialty machining and motorcycle customization. Despite Kingman’s relatively remote desert location (positioned 75 miles south of Las Vegas along historic Route 66) Kelly attracts customers locally, from over state lines and even from across the country.
A HISTORY IN MOTORCYCLES
As with many of the motorcycle sales and service providers we document in these pages, Kelly’s love for two-wheelers came from his father. “My pops and I built our first motorcycle when I was 10 years old, and it just kind of mushroomed out from there,” he tells Drag Specialties Magazine. “We had a Knucklehead, and I put it together with my dad in his barn. He taught me how to ride it, and my first riding experience was through the front gate and the barn door. I tell you; it gave me a real good understanding of motorcycling. So, aside from a couple of English bikes, it’s basically been Harleys ever since.”
Although Kelly got his start being paid to wrench on bikes in Tucson, Arizona in 1969, quickly thereafter he was assigned to the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area of Florida to serve in the United States Navy. Forty years went by. During that time, Kelly attended the St. Petersburg Vocational Technical School and learned the finer points of becoming a machinist, became a Machinist Third Rank in the Navy, went to the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute, did dyno training with
Performancebuilt V-Twin motors are an integral part of Kelly’s business model, that means they’re front-andcenter for all to see.
Dynojet, and continued to gain experience wrenching on bikes. It was during that period that business flourished for Kelly’s Performance Specialists there in Florida.
“Then, 23 years ago, after I retired from the military in Florida, I felt it was time to move back to Arizona,” Kelly says. “We’re in a building that Debby and I custom-built ourselves. Now we have about 8,500 sq. ft. within a 5,000 sq. ft. footprint on almost three acres. We have a full machine shop, a repair shop, 11 service lifts, two dynos, an electronic diagnosis machine for all of the new bikes, a parts department that covers approximately 2,000 sq. ft. and is filled with both Harley OE parts as well as aftermarket parts, and a warehouse with more than 200 tires. We’re also a dealer for Confederate Motorcycles as well as Big Dog Motorcycles.
“Our building is really very complex,” he says. “When you walk through the front door, the first thing you see are 10 performance-built motors, six transmissions and a halfdozen primary systems for sale right on the counter, so you know we sell motors. Next to the counter is the customer waiting room that also serves as the galley. You’ll also see
five service lifts surrounded by all of the shining HarleyDavidson commemorative Snap-On toolboxes, and the 3,000 sq. ft. machine shop beyond that area. We also have a viewing room for the Dynojet 250i dynos.”
WHAT THEY DO
Kelly says servicing motorcycles entails about 65 percent of his business while about 20 percent is engine building. The remainder of the work comes in the form of custom builds and new motor installs. The shop does all of its machining in-house. “We do our own flywheels, our own CNC heads, our own crankshafts, our own engine balancing, etc. And an important aspect to that is that we warranty everything,” he says.
Kelly is also involved in building Frankenstein Trikes, and has constructed 42 examples. “There are a lot of older people who don’t want to give up their bikes,” he explains. “So, they’ll take their $50,000 investment and spend another $25,000 to make it into a Trike. It’s amazing.”
The operation typically has a dozen bikes in every day of the week. “We’re rolling all of the time,” Kelly says. “There are no slow days here, and there haven’t been for over 10 years.”
Another unique offering by Kelly’s Performance Specialists comes in the form of teaching dyno classes and HarleyDavidson instructional classes for dealers and technicians from all over the country. “We teach tuning. We teach all of the different options that Harley-Davidson offers, and we certify all of our students with a Performance Specialists certificate,” Kelly says.
How many employees does it take to keep the shop humming?
The shop has an intimate team of six people, including three technicians, two part-time fellas that pick up and deliver bikes and clean parts, and Debby Frain who oversees everything and helps with parts procurement and phone appointments. “Also, all of our technicians are certified,” Kelly says. “In fact, nowadays as a PhD-certified technician, I still keep all of my certifications updated and I’m currently working on this new 121 VVT motor.”
CUSTOMERS FROM NEAR AND FAR
The shop’s customers range from entry-level enthusiasts to “platinum riders. “All of the new bike riders are interested in the latest and greatest,” he says. “We also take care of our early-model clients, servicing bikes from Flatheads right on up to Milwaukee-Eights.
Kelly’s customers come from everywhere, and they are also close to Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The shop also offers mail-in service for machining, pre-builds and motor work, so business literally comes from all over.
Despite advertising on the radio as well as in magazines, Kelly says 80 percent of his business comes from word-ofmouth. “We have a very strong repeat business because people know they’re getting their bike done right by a quality technician.
With such a strong reputation, and such a busy schedule, the shop doesn’t do many events. “We used to do a Bike
At Kelly’s Performance Specialists, all the technicians are certified. From left: Billy, Kelly and Mike.
From left: Debby Frain and Thomas “Kelly” Kelly are the owners of Kelly’s Performance Specialists.
Night … but nowadays we’ll do a swap meet now and then,” Kelly explains. “We also do events at the Laughlin River Run like a bike smash where we round up a bunch of donated Japanese motorcycles, tie them together and use my friend’s crane service to drop them from 100 feet. Then we put the sledgehammers and safety glasses out and turn everyone loose on them.”
XAs with any career built on passion, Kelly also finds time to enjoy the motorcycles he’s made a living off of. While his favorite personal ride is a 2005 Confederate Hellcat, he also splits his time atop a turbocharged 1989 FXR, a 2000 Road King, and a 2003 CVO Road King.
PARTS PROCUREMENT
Charged with keeping both classic and new motorcycles on the road, and stocking a 2,000 sq. ft. parts department, how important are Drag Specialties vendors to Kelly’s Performance Specialists?
“Drag Specialties is my number one go-to source,” Kelly says. “Years ago, I used to have to call 20 vendors a week. Drag has really brought the vendor market to a spectacular level because I can now make only one call to my guy and get everything I need from one source.
“So, with Drag Specialties being my business partner, I can order up and get my stuff from their Nevada warehouse within two days or less. Which saves me a ton of time in getting customer bikes out. … They are so instrumental in keeping my business running.
“They’re also incredibly strong in giving us vendor education. We attend all of their technical seminars that they put on here in Arizona as well as in Las Vegas. For instance, in June, we learned Custom Dynamics Lighting just came out with these TSMs that go all of the way back to 2000 and that’s a huge plus for my clients to get their old bikes back on the road.
“So, every time we go to one of those seminars, I bring all of my gentlemen so that they can get the [skinny] on what’s cooking in the vendor market.”
Kelly’s Performance Specialists is served by Drag Specialties Sales Representative James “Woody” Wood.
“Woody is the best,” Kelly says. “He covers a big territory, but every month that guy is here like clockwork. He brings in all of the new products and helps me out significantly by playing a huge part in my business. He knows what he has in-house, he knows what’s up-and-coming to the market on his side, and he has always got a report for me. That guy’s on it, he’s on it like a hobo on a ham sandwich, so I never have to worry about getting good intel from Woody.”
As Kelly’s Drag rep for the past 10 years, Woody has gotten close to him and the business, the operation of which often leaves him amazed.
James “Woody” Wood (center) has served as Kelly’s Performance Specialist’s Drag rep for the past 10 years works closely with Kelly, Debby and the crew. Here he is with tech Mike (left) and owner Kelly (right).
The 2,000 sq. ft. parts department at Kelly’s Performance Specialists features products covering decades of V-Twins, many of which come from the FatBook and OldBook. “Drag Specialties is my number one go-to source,” says Kelly.
“Wow, what a first impression this shop has when you walk in the front door,” Woody adds. “From several freshly completed motors to choose from to the specialty tools and equipment to the very well placed and organized toolboxes that run throughout the entire place, Kelly runs a tight ship and so clean you almost wonder where he finds the time to keep it in this condition 24/7. Especially for as busy as the shop is with every lift always being occupied.
“Kelly is also as meticulous about the parts he uses as he is about the condition of the shop, which I learned very quickly. He calls on me often for Drag Specialties’ wide range of offerings and keeps me on my toes and in the game by testing my experience, understanding and knowledge of the industry. Sometimes I wonder if he is just testing me!
“We got pretty close pretty quick when I first started calling on him back in 2015. Kelly’s passion, knowledge and love of the V-Twin industry and the motorcycles that he has dedicated himself to was very apparent from the very first moment talking with him.
He is very dedicated to his work and customers alike, so it is always a pleasure having the opportunity to call on Kelly’s Performance Specialists and spend time with Kelly, Debby and the crew.” ■
WWindshields for Harley-Davidson Touring models Getting Screen Time
indVest Motorcycle Products has new windshield applications for select 2023-2025 Harley-Davidson Touring models, including the CVO and Road Glide.
Like many brands within the powersports segment, WindVest began as a problem-solving product when the late Norm Dober took a long and windblown ride from Northern California to Sturgis, South Dakota. The experience led Norm to design and build his own windshield and eventually launch WindVest out of his garage in 1989. After Norm’s passing in 2008, the WindVest legacy passed on to his son, Doug, and daughter, Tami, who today oversee all design and business operations.
As one of the most common add-ons for motorcyclists, a windshield enhances rider comfort by protecting against wind and the elements, especially on long days in the saddle. Vehicle wind turbulence – from tractor-trailers and other road vehicles – can often result in buffeting, where the rider’s head and upper body get tossed about in a chaotic and uncomfortable manner.
Buffeting is extremely unnerving at higher speeds, and something no rider enjoys experiencing. An aerodynamically tuned and properly fitted windshield not only eliminates buffeting, but also allows the rider to relax their grip on the handlebars for a more enjoyable ride. WindVest windshields are designed for a relaxed and stress-free experience.
The secret sauce? A WindVest-devised flip-top design that generates smooth airflow in the critical 3 to 4 inches above the top of the screen to reduce buffeting. Each windshield is manufactured from high-impact GE Plexiglas Acrylic for rigidity, clarity and reduced vibration at higher speeds. WindVest screens automatically sit at the correct angle, so no adjustments are required; just bolt it on and start rolling the throttle.
To cover the broadest range of rider preferences, WindVest offers height options and three lens tints: clear, light smoke and dark smoke. Installation is simple using the OEM hardware. In addition to the new part numbers for the 2023-2025 Harley Touring models, Drag Specialties warehouses over 65 part numbers across both early and late model applications. Every windshield is DOT-approved and proudly made in the USA. WindVest includes a one-year manufacturer’s warranty on all of its products.
“WindVest windshields was and still is designed by riders for riders,” says Tami Dober, Chief Financial Officer for WindVest. “We take pride in the design, quality and performance of our windshields. Customer satisfaction is one of our top priorities. We’ve been family-owned and operated since 1996.” ■
WindVest Motorcycle Products’ range of windshields for Harley-Davidson Touring models features a fliptop design that generates smooth airflow in the critical 3 to 4 inches above the top of the screen to reduce buffeting.
» For more information about WindVest Motorcycle Products, speak to your Drag Specialties sales representative, check out the FatBook and visit www.dragspecialties.com.
Saddle Showcase
An Updated Seat Discount and Display Program
The Drag Specialties Seats display program allows your customers to get a hands-on look at a variety of Drag seats. Dealers can also offer demo seats for customers to get a real seat-of-the-pants feel.
That means the hardest part of the process might be deciding which four seats to display, but Drag Specialties National Sales Manager Greg Matter has some advice on that. He says the Predator III seat is the most popular seller, and the new Freedom seat is creating a splash. “It has a sleeker look than our very popular Touring seats, but doesn’t give up comfort,” Matter notes.
In addition to the discount on the seats and the free display, the Drag Seats program also includes the No Stress Exchange offered through the brand.
“The display allows a customer to see and feel the seat, and the no hassle exchange allows for customers to demo a seat without the shop having to worry about the seat getting damaged and being unsellable,” Matter says.
“ In addition to the discount on the seats and the free display, the Drag Seats program also includes the No Stress Exchange offered through the brand.”
There are some parts a rider can view in a catalog or see on a shelf and know it’s a good fit. When it comes to seats, though, there’s a little more to it. Being able to touch or even try out a seat can make all the difference between browsing and buying, and the updated Drag Specialties Seats display program makes it easier than ever to get those sales.
The Drag Seats display program starts with an order of four seats. From there, you get a free seat display (p/n 9903-0650) plus 10 percent off that four-seat order.
The display is designed to turn heads without taking up a lot of floor space. Its footprint is only 36 inches x 36 inches. Standing 79-inches tall, it’s tough for a customer to miss the header sign, which is printed on both sides for visibility from any direction.
The hooks on the four-way, powder-coated steel frame are adjustable, and the vertical display style means the seats mount via the rear seat tab. Those are found on about 95 percent of Drag seats, so just about any seat can be displayed.
Typically, riders who demo a seat are sold on the looks, comfort and quality, and the dealer has a sale. “However,” Matter says, “if the seat remains unsold and sustains wear during demo rides, the dealer can contact the Drag Specialties Seat Company directly for an exchange. This is also the case if a display seat has gone unsold for some reason. The shop can, again, contact the Drag Specialties Seat Company and exchange it for another model.”
All Drag seats are made in the USA, and there are styles to fit every rider’s taste and needs. The display is a great way to show customers what a wide variety of options there are.
“Having a floor display in your shop makes all the difference if you want to sell seats,” Matter says. “It can take your business from hundreds of dollars in annual seat sales to thousands of dollars.” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep about the Drag Specialties Seats discount and display program. You can explore the FatBook, the OldBook and www.dragspecialties.com to see all the seat options.
USimple Setup
Grab Ahold of EZ Install Handlebar Kits
nderstanding the wants and needs of motorcycle customers relies heavily on one thing; being a rider yourself. Being surrounded by the business, other riders, and getting your hands dirty with your own bikes can translate to a company that connects with riders. This is the story of Gary Chipp and Fat Baggers.
Evolving from offering customization kits, Gary recognized a need for handlebars that were less hassle to install, but didn’t sacrifice the design people were after. As one of the most modified parts on Harleys, there’s no shortage of customers looking for quality and convenience with a new set of bars. Enter Fat Baggers’ EZ Install line of handlebar kits. With more part numbers now added to the 2025 Mid-Year Update, your customers have a range of options with varying styles and sizes across 1½-inch and 1¼-inch diameters. Pointed top, flat top and rounded top styles each deliver their own unique, custom look and are designed with rise, width and pullback dimensions that give riders the ability to find their exact fit.
All the options are great, but what makes these EZ Install bars easy to install, anyway? First, they come pre-wired for OEM handlebar controls. Fat Baggers did the tough work and created harness extensions that are pre-installed in the bars and ready to simply plug in.
Additionally, these are two-piece handlebars, using a patented design to marry two bar halves together and secure them with a set bolt. Not only can this make it easier
on the customer, but it means these bars take up half the space on your dealership shelf and reduce shipping cost.
“Our two-piece center section on our handlebars has a straight knurling design that’s very aggressive, providing a lot more contact surface for the handlebar in the clamp. Our design is engineered to be stronger than the OEM handlebars,” added Chipp, President of Fat Baggers.
EZ Install handlebars show up with everything needed to complete the installation, hardware and all, translating to roughly half the install time of many standard bars. Each style and size have chrome and gloss black finish options, each supplied with brake line/cable extensions to match.
While Fat Baggers strive to improve convenience every step of the way, the brand never sacrifices quality. Each handlebar is manufactured in the USA using CNC mandrel-bent, thick-wall tube and features a billet steel machined top corner with a smooth internal cavity to avoid any wire damage.
Part numbers added to the Update cover riders on HarleyDavidson 2023-2025FLHX(SE) and FLTRX(SE) models with rise options ranging from 11 inches to 16 inches and pullback from 8 inches to 12 inches. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep today and check them out in the 2025 Drag & Parts Unlimited 2025 Update and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Fat Baggers Inc. now offers more fitments of its EZ Install Handlebar Kits in the 2025 Mid-Year Update. The range includes varying styles and sizes across 1½-inch and 1¼-inch diameters. All of them come pre-wired for OEM handlebar controls fo plug-and-play installation.
Fat Baggers Inc.’s two-piece handlebars feature a patented design that joins the two bar halves together and secures them with a set bolt. Straight spline knurling holds everything fast and secure in the clamp.
WThe Art of Performance Go-Fast
Products for Touring Bikes
After developing this front link through their Bagger Racing efforts, Alloy Art decided to make it available as a stand-alone part. Available in black anodized, gold anodized or machined aluminum finish, the link features a reverse thread rod end and improved adjustability. It comes with ARP stainless bolts and is made in the USA.
on a Harley-Davidson, it all comes down to expression and freedom on two wheels.
The crew at Alloy Art invite you to challenge your customers to look at their motorcycle like a blank canvas, and help them explore ways to turn it into something truly unique.
“There’s so much individuality, and creativity that goes into a bike to make it yours,” says Robbie Lane. “That’s what I love about the Harley aftermarket world. It’s your bike, and everybody gets to build out their bike just how they want it.”
The passionate team behind Alloy Art knows all about unique builds, from their show pieces to their race bikes, and their collective experience is what continues to fuel their product line. Check out what’s new from Alloy Art.
For a more precise handling feel, look to the Competition Adjustable Front Stabilizer Link from Alloy Art. Making sure the driveline is centered and balanced with the chassis is an essential aspect of V-Twin performance. Replacing the non-adjustable OEM part on 2009 and newer Touring frames with the adjustable front stabilizer link can help improve overall handling not only on the track, but also on the road.
When it comes time to boost stopping performance, look to the Multi Caliper Rear Brake Mount. These mounts allow your customers to run 108mm radial calipers or supersport-style brake calipers. The caliper brackets can be adjusted with spacers to accept rotor diameters from 8 inches to 11.8 inches. They are CNC-machined from aluminum and made in the USA.
Also from the racing development side come new Alloy Art Race Stem steering stems. At less than half the weight of the stock Harley Touring stem, the AARS is a quick way to drop more than a pound. CNC-machined from nickel-plated chromoly, the stem is designed with a much smaller hex head than stock – a smaller sockets means less chance of dinging the tank. The sleeve is made from 6061-T6 aluminum, and all parts are made in the USA.
Back down to the motor, the new Alloy Art Comp Cam Cover is more than just a pretty face. This CNC-machined 6061 T-6 billet aluminum cam cover not only looks slick in the new black finish, but features a low-profile design that enables larger diameter headers to run closer for extra ground clearance. A larger breather fitting allows for greater crankcase venting and the finned surface helps increase cooling. As always, it is made in the USA. ■
» Talk to your Drag Specialties sales rep for details, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Your customers can shave off more than a pound of weight by swapping out the stock Harley steering stem with Alloy Art’s Race Stem steering stem.
CWrapped for Speed Carbon-Fiber Fork
ustom Cycle Engineering (CCE) has introduced new 49 mm Carbon Fiber Sleeve Fork Tubes for Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Touring Softail and Fat Boy models, as well as for select Sportsters. CCE has manufactured upgraded aftermarket fork tubes since 1967, leveraging nearly six decades of experience in designing and building each product in-house at its North American location.
The new carbon wrapped tubes are comprised of a durable inner DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) 1026 steel tube wrapped with a carbon fiber outer sleeve. The result is a product that combines the beauty and strength of carbon fiber with the durability and structural integrity of steel. These are beyond the average fork tube and more in the realm of sculpted art.
CCE offers them in two colors – standard Rich Black carbon fiber or in Deep Red carbon fiber. Both options are designed to fit a variety of models as direct replacements
In addition to carbon, Drag Specialties also carries CCE’s original fork tube offerings in various diameters, lengths and finishes for a range of Harley applications. Finishes include Diamond-Like Carbon Black, Gold Titanium Nitride, Hard Chrome and Ultra Chrome. Each of these smooth, polished finishes not only looks beautiful, but also creates less fork drag and improves seal life.
Beyond fork tubes, CCE’s product lineup includes select niche components for Harleys. A few examples include engine alignment and stabilizer links, motor mounts, footpeg elevator blocks, swingarm retrofit kits and solenoid end covers.
Tubes for American V-Twins
The line also features original designs from CCE Founder and aftermarket Harley parts pioneer Randy Smith, including his Tweek Bars for extended fork tubes, finned rocker covers and Narrow-to-Wide Glide Wheel Conversion Kits. All of CCE’s products are precision-machined and manufactured at its facility in San Diego, California.
“Our mission at Custom Cycle Engineering is to introduce products with new concepts while maintaining the thoughtful traditions of our founder, Randy Smith,” adds Ron Linville, President of Custom Cycle Engineering. “All of our products are made here in America, and we’re proud to continue CCE’s long history of innovation and function.” out
Custom Cycle Engineering’s new Carbon Fiber Sleeve Fork Tubes for Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Touring Softail and Fat Boy models offer a good-looking, go-fast upgrade for your customers’ front ends.
In addition to the Black colorway, Custom Cycle Engineering also offers its new Carbon Fiber Sleeve Fork Tubes in Deep Red, offering an ultra-custom look.
HFrosty Flow Coolant Hose Upgrades for Harley-Davidsons
arley-Davidsons are engineered to do a lot of things well, but running cool is not one of them. The classic V-Twin engine design, large-bore displacement and heavy engine load characteristics of Harleys don’t create a recipe for efficient cooling, which is why it’s critical to pay attention to one of the most overlooked components of the cooling system – coolant hoses.
Coolant hoses (or radiator hoses, if you prefer) are responsible for running coolant to and from the engine through the cooling components in effort to reduce engine temperatures. However, OEM coolant hoses are
typically constructed from a rubber-based material that checks the box on affordability, but not always on durability or performance.
Samco Sport is a manufacturer that knows a thing or two about thermal management, having been in the game for three decades now. This UK-based outfit manufactures high-performance silicone hose upgrade kits – among other complementary products – that are a direct improvement over OE Harley hoses, both on paper and noticeably on the bike.
Silicone construction is a big improvement over OE rubber, maintaining a higher temperature tolerance, more stable resistance to pressure and an overall longer lifespan preventing cracking, hardening and fatigue. Plus, they allow coolant to flow more freely, dropping temps and making the cooling system’s job easier. These benefits are a welcomed improvement for Harleys, especially for riders logging long miles or riding in hot weather.
“We’re delighted to enter the V-Twin and Harley market with Drag Specialties,” added Richard Murphy of Samco Sport. “We have worked with Parts Unlimited for almost 15 years and have been manufacturing hoses in-house for twice as long, so this feels like a natural evolution of serving the powersports market.”
Samco Sport’s new highperformance silicone hose kits for Harley-Davidson models are a marked upgrade over the stock hoses. These robust hoses offer an overall longer lifespan preventing cracking, hardening and fatigue.
A hose upgrade should be strongly considered by your customers with performance upgrades, too. Upping compression, tossing in a more aggressive cam, or even a hotter tune can all create more heat in and outside the engine, meaning the cooling system is under more pressure, literally.
A wide range of Harley riders are covered with Samco Sport hose options, including FLT and FLH Touring models from 2017 – 2022, and even Pan America ADV models from 2021 – 2025. With a silicone hose upgrade, don’t let your customers walk out without new stainless-steel clamps to match too. Samco Sport’s hose clamps are proven over countless miles and hundreds of applications, adding insurance to this upgrade job.
Samco Sport backs its products 100 percent, offering a lifetime warranty with no mileage cap on all its products, proving there’s confidence in quality.
“Making a silicone product with a lifetime guarantee as we do takes experienced hose builders and extensive quality control,” added Richard. “All our hoses are handmade to a level that can be trusted by elite racing organizations and your customers alike.” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details and complete applications, and check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Samco Sport’s radiator hose kits for the Harley-Davidson Pan America provide improved flow for better cooling, increased durability and high burst pressures.
Power Transfer Competitor Clutch Kits for Early Big Twins
BDL now has fitments of its Competitor Clutch Kit for early-model Big Twins. Your Knucklehead, Panhead and Shovelhead customers can now have that legendary BDL performance for their bikes."
Belt Drives Limited now offers its CC-100-S Competitor Clutch Kit for 1936-1947 Harley-Davidson Knuckleheads, 1948-1964 Panheads and 19701983 Shovelhead models. These kits come with a BDL clutch hub, hub adapter, 40mm roller bearing, clutch plates and aluminum pressure plate with coil springs and shoulder bolts. Everything needed for seamless installation is in one complete package.
The CC-100-S Competitor Clutch is tunable for a variety of use case scenarios. With nine coil springs and shoulder bolts included, users have the option to run six or nine springs and bolts to set the pressure plate adjustment level. Fewer springs (six) will deliver less clutch pack pressure and a lighter lever pull at the handlebar. For high-horsepower and competition builds, users can run all nine of the springs and bolts to dial up a higher clutch pack pressure for a more durable and reliable setup when subjected to repeated abuse.
BDL states the kit does require a slight press-fit during installation on older, early-style Big Twins with the threestud basket. The hub adapter simply presses into the basket to mimic a modern style one-piece clutch setup.
The basket will no longer float on the hub but is instead fixed together as a one-piece assembly. The hub can either be pressed into the OEM basket or one of BDL’s earlier clutch baskets. A double-row hub bearing is included for added strength and durability under heavy loads.
The included polished aluminum pressure plate adds a touch of custom style and sparkle to machines running open belt drives. BDL includes its race-proven aramid clutch pack in each kit, with replacement steel and friction plates available but sold separately.
Proudly manufactured in the USA, the CC-100-S Competitor Clutch Kit (p/n 1130-0177) delivers smooth clutch operation and positive engagement, resulting in increased horsepower to the ground while eliminating the shifting problems inherent with older three-stud Harley clutch hubs. “This is the kit to solve those old and unreliable clutch issues on the early style clutches,” says Scott Murley, Head of Tech and R&D for BDL. ■
» For more information about BDL, contact your Drag Specialties sales representative, and check out the FatBook, the OldBook and www.dragspecialties.com.
WNeedles in a Haystack Hard-to-Find
Parts, Easily Found
hen it comes to repairing and rebuilding motorcycles, there are few hangups more frustrating than simply not being able to find the right part. But even rare and hardto-find bits and bobs can still be found in the pages of the FatBook and the OldBook – companies like Cycle Pro LLC and Cycle Craft are proof of that. Knowing where to look when your customers need to find unique, specific parts is what can elevate you into the Parts Guy Hall of Fame.
For more than 20 years, North Carolina-based company Cycle Pro LLC has been designing, developing and distributing aftermarket parts for Harley-Davidsons, British Motorcycles and other powersports vehicles. As for Cycle Craft, they’ve been at it since 1979, adding up to many decades of experience.
“We’ve been filling a niche market for years,” says Thom Mendola, Founder/CEO of Cycle Pro LLC. “Manufacturing high-quality replacement parts for motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles is what we aim to do, especially the unique and hard-to-find products.”
Here’s a look at some of the best-selling products from Cycle Pro and Cycle Craft: If your builder customers are looking for an oxygen sensor for a Harley-Davidson, Cycle Pro has both 12mm and 18mm option available for an assortment of models. Each one meets or exceeds OEM specifications and fits easily with stock components, no modifications needed. They are precision made in the USA with high temperature dual shield ends.
An assortment of throttle position sensors can also be found under Cycle Pro LLC for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. For Dyna, Softail, Sportster, Touring and V-Rod models, you can find the right fit all the way back to 2001. These sensors provide a direct replacement from the OEM design, and help optimize power from the engine.
For customers running carbureted Harley-Davidsons, help them keep the fuel flowing with the Cycle Pro EZ Quick Tuner Kit. This is an easy and inexpensive way to freshen up performance, with Cycle Pro flow jets made from high-quality brass and a replacement needle jet.
From the Cycle Craft pages, also find an assortment of Keihin pilot jets and main jets. Builders can also order an entire Master Pilot Jet Kit complete with nine five-packs of jets, all precision-made in Japan.
If it comes down to a full carburetor rebuild, Cycle Craft also has Keihin rebuild kits for both Butterfly and CV-type carbs. The kit is complete with gaskets, O-rings, and Viton (not neoprene) needle valves. ■
» Talk to your Drag Specialties sales rep about the unique parts available from Cycle Pro and Cycle Craft. Find out more in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
If your builder customers are looking for an oxygen sensor for a Harley-Davidson, Cycle Pro has both 12mm and 18mm option available for an assortment of models.
Cycle Pro has an assortment of throttle position sensors for a variety of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including Dyna, Softail, Sportster, Touring and V-Rod models.
Cycle Craft and Cycle Pro have a variety of replacement parts for carburetors, including the EZ Quick Tuner Kit and complete rebuild kits.
Pure Power
Introducing the BGZ Series Batteries
Are your customers planning a road trip across the USA or gearing up for everyday heavy-duty riding?
When it comes to big engines and big expectations, BS Battery’s BGZ Series delivers the power and reliability V-Twin riders demand, all at a competitive price point.
Part of BS Battery’s SLA Max range, these five new models are built to serve the needs of big touring bikes, cruisers and heavyweight V-Twin motorcycles. Whether your customers are riding an Indian, Harley-Davidson or other American V-Twin, the BGZ Series has been engineered for maximum performance.
Thanks to built-in copper terminals, BGZ batteries ensure enhanced conductivity and improved torque performance, offering up to 50 percent better connection than standard terminals. Their taller internal plates are designed to boost starting power, while their rugged construction increases vibration resistance for more durability over time.
The series also features both front and top connections, making installation easier, especially on custom V-Twins where space and access matter.
These maintenance-free, non-spillable, factory-activated AGM batteries come ready to ride straight out of the box. These powerful lead-acid models deliver up to 20 percent more starting power and capacity than standard SLA batteries. They’re ideal for fully loaded bikes and long highway miles.
BS Battery also offers the Lithium Max range for riders who demand maximum performance. With highly reduced weight, low self-discharge, and extended battery life, these high-end batteries are specially developed for big machines, and built to meet the superior needs of powersport enthusiasts and professional riders alike. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for details and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
BS Battery’s new BGZ Series are engineered for maximum performance.
Cool Your Jets
Testing Tool for Piston Cooling Jets
FPiston Cooling Jets
Pressure Tester is a must-have for service techs and custom builders when servicing
euling Parts is keen to inform Drag Specialties dealers about its new V-twin Piston Cooling Jets Pressure Tester for assembled engine cases. Mechanics and experienced DIY builders can use this specialty tool to pressure test piston cooling jets after installation, ensuring proper engine performance. This is a must-have for service techs and custom builders when servicing Harley-Davidson Twin Cam and M8 motors.
Piston cooling jets are small, precision nozzles (jets) located inside the engine’s crankcase that spray a fine
mist of oil on each piston. Nozzles that fail to spray during operation cause reduced piston lubrication, resulting in increased heat and premature wear. Leaking or prematurely releasing jets can cause high engine case oil levels (sump) and lower oil pressure in the engine block lifter bores. Feuling’s Cooling Jet Pressure Tester allows one to quickly diagnose issues and verify cooling jets are operating correctly before start-up.
For hardcore V-Twin mechanics, this is a functional diagnostic instrument worthy of adding to their specialty tool arsenal. Not only will it save labor costs, but it also provides peace of mind to customers and service departments, knowing each motor is tuned to the optimal mechanical operating parameters. “Feuling is committed to producing quality American-made parts and tools to increase engine and service department performance,” adds Harry Free, Tech & Sales Manager for Feuling Parts. ■
» For more information about Feuling Parts, contact your Drag Specialties sales representative, check out the FatBook and Tire & Service catalogs and www.dragspecialties.com.
BA
• Convertible backing plate with optional external venting
• Lengthens intake runners and increases air velocity
• Features HIGH FLOW billet aluminum velocity stack
• One piece cage for easy install
• 50 State legal M-Eight fitments C.A.R.B. EO #D-881
• Available for M-Eight, Twin Cam and EVO
Feuling’s V-twin
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam and M8 motors.
CIt’s All in the Details
Contrast Seat Stitching for a Custom Look
onvenience meets custom with the TailWhip seat from LePera Motorcycle Seats. The company’s best-selling seat is now available with updated stitch colors, making it easy for riders to get a custom-looking seat right off the shelf – no waiting required.
It’s easy to give a Bagger an upgrade with one of these TailWhip seats with color stitching. Riders at Sturgis got to check out all the new stitch colors in person. Color options include Red, Blue, Gray, Orange and Black, and more are on the way.
“The new color options are designed to complement a wide range of bike color schemes without overpowering the overall look,” says Christine LePera. The TailWhip seat is already a bold style statement, and the color stitching gives it just the right amount of additional panache.
LePera adds, “The TailWhip stands out with a unique style that sets it apart from other options on the market.”
That unique style makes the TailWhip seat more than just a head-turner. It also provides deep back support for the driver as well as plenty of space for a passenger. For
riders who want to show off their skills, the TailWhip is also a great choice for pushing the limits, since its design ensures maximum control.
Underneath the “whipped-up” styling is LePera’s signature powder-coated steel base plate with a carpeted bottom. Each handcrafted seat includes high-density Marathon foam for outstanding comfort. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep about the TailWhip seat for Baggers. You can find it in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
LePera’s popular TailWhip seat is now available with updated stitch colors, perfect for customers looking to color-match their bike build.
AComfort and Style
The New K25 Grips
von Grips’ new K25 grips for 1-inch diameter handlebars come in six versions, all made of billet aluminum and Kraton rubber featuring a super soft, tacky and durable surface designed to help reduce hand fatigue.
For cable-operated throttles, the K25-CH grips feature a closed end, diamondknurled, no flange design with a chrome finish while the K25-ANO grips are similarly designed but with an anodized black finish.
For throttle-by-wire applications, the K25-CH-FLY grips feature a closed end, diamond-knurled, no flange design with a chrome finish while the K25-ANO-FLY grips are similarly designed but with an anodized black finish. Also designed for throttle-by-wire applications, the K25-CH-F24 is a closed-end, diamond-knurled, no
flange grip in a chrome finish while the K25-ANO-F24 is a closed-end, diamond-knurled, no flange grip in a black anodized finish.
Known for their comfort, durability and unique designs, Avon Grips have long been a popular choice for motorcycle riders. Over the years the company has introduced innovative features such as air cushioning to dampen vibrations and heated grips for cooler riding conditions. Today, Avon offers a wide array of grips for various types of motorcycles.
Avon’s motorcycle grips are handcrafted in the U.S., with the company based in Kingwood, Texas. Talk to them in person at the Milwaukee NVP. ■
» Ask your Drag rep for more details, and learn more in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Avon Grips’ K25 grips are built to reduce hand fatigue and provide a nice touch of style for your customers’ Harley-Davidson models.
Inside Job Internal Throttle Cable for a Custom Look
Anyone who has customized a bike knows how important even the smallest details are. One of those details is cleaning up the look of the controls with a hidden throttle cable. Müller Motorcycle’s internal throttle cable ensures a sleek look for the handlebars, and the company’s throttle mounting kit makes installation precise.
The internal throttle cable assembly comes with a Tefloncoated Bowden cable that can accommodate a variety of handlebar lengths. The cable operation is smooth and precise thanks to the double-sided ball bearing design, and its accuracy is within hundredths of a millimeter to minimize play. Riders get a clean, cable-free look that doesn’t compromise performance.
Handlebar end turn signals can be used in conjunction with the internal cable, and the system can accommodate any aluminum grips. A throttle adjustment screw gives the rider their desired amount of throttle play.
Installing the internal throttle cable requires the handlebars to be cut and holes to be drilled. The throttle
Müller Motorcycle’s unique internal throttle cable assembly, and drilling and cutting guide for a clean, precise installation.
mounting kit takes the guesswork out of the process. A drilling and cutting gauge can be clamped securely into place to provide a clean cut in just the right spot, and the correct size drill bit is included.
“You don’t need to measure and rack your brains about where to place the hole for the screw, and so you are safe that everything is in the right position,” notes Eva-Maria Daferner, Marketing, Müller Motorcycle. ■
» Get details on Müller Motorcycle’s internal throttle cable and mounting kit by talking with your Drag rep. Find both in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
for all inch handlebars with cable entry
THorsepower Helper Piston Kits for M8 Engines
he horsepower and torque on an M8 engine get a big boost with a KB Pistons Super Duty piston kit. These pistons elevate a 114 inch or 117 inch M8 engine to 120 inch for an instant performance upgrade that retains the factory cylinders that have thick liners.
KB Pistons offers two different versions of this kit, including the standard one and a 0.020” oversize kit. Both include the pistons, rings and clips.
KB Super Duty pistons feature a Type 3 hard-anodized crown and top ring groove. This combination creates the ideal flat surface for the ring to rotate on while also providing an extra line of defense against corrosion, especially if alcohol-added fuels are running through the system.
The pistons are also made with KB’s state-of-the-art Line2Line abradable skirt coating. This coating reduces piston rock and noise, and it contributes to the best possible ring seal. The Line2Line coating abrades on startup to create a precise, custom fit for the cylinder.
“These Super Duty series pistons offer a great value as they include Type 3 hard anodized crown and top ring groove, Line2Line abradable skirt coating, and a 1.2/1.2/3.0mm ring set for good oil control,” says Marko Glush from KB Pistons.
Glush adds that the Super Duty pistons are great for high-mileage riders thanks to their durability. Riders can install these pistons in their M8 engine and know they will go the distance. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about KB Pistons Super Duty piston kits for M8 engines and find them in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
KB Pistons’ Super Duty piston kits offer an instant upgrade for your customers’ Harley-Davidson M8-powered bikes.
DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS
TOUR PAK® FILLER PADS
» Fills the open area between the rear of the passenger seat and the Tour Pak® when using the Tour Pak relocator kit
» Mounts to the stock holes on the Tour Pak
» Pad features smooth cover material for a clean look
» Made in the U.S.A.
SPECIALTIES
» High-quality replacement sensor
OEM-STYLE FUEL GAUGE
» Chrome finish
» Direct replacement for the stock fuel gauge
12 MM NARROW BAND O2
SENSORS
» Isolated ground for added robustness
» Enables closed-loop control for better emissions control
» Precision made for outstanding performance
» Improved fuel economy and longer sensor life
» Manufactured to meet and exceed all OEM specifications
» Direct plug-in replacement for the stock sensor
» Sold each
HOPPE
BRL BELLY PAN
» Hoppe Engineering partnered with the Bagger Racing League (BRL) to produce lightweight, cost-saving racing parts
» Same technology allows you to have the ultimate racer look and performance
» Helps direct air to engine
» Lightweight fiberglass construction PART
RWD
CUSTOM RETRO FRONT FENDER
» Beautiful design that gives a retro look
» Heavy 14-gauge raw steel
» Stamped construction
» Laser-trimmed for accuracy
» Dimensions: 6˝ W (for use with 19˝ front wheel)
» Made in the U.S.A.
ALLOY ART
CAM COVER
» Low profile design brings in larger diameter headers even closer for extra ground clearance
» Large breather fitting option allows for greater crankcase breathing
» CNC machined from 6061 T-6 billet aluminum with a finned design
» Black finish
» Made in the U.S.A.
SUG. RETAIL 0940-2222 For 17-24 M-Eight (except 23-24 FLHXSE/FLTRXSE) $444.95
FEULING
BA AIR CLEANER KITS WITH CLEAR OUTER COVER
» Developed and designed on the flow bench, and dyno-tested
» Impressive horsepower and torque gains on any engine
» One piece design, creates a clean look and eases installation
» Feature lengthened intake runners for increased air velocity, added volume and balanced dynamic flow
» High flow billet aluminum velocity stack with optimal opening diameter, outer lip and internal (ID) taper
» High flow washable/reusable 2.5˝ wide air filter with one-piece billet cage
» Fits standard OEM 58 mm throttle bodies
» Replacement filters and optional rain sock sold separately
» Made in the U.S.A.
DISCLAIMER: NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA OR ON ANY POLLUTION-CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLES.
PART # DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL FOR 24 FLHX/FLTRX/FLTRXSTSE, 23-24 FLHXSE/FLTRXSE
JOKER MACHINE
NO. 1 RECTANGULAR MIRRORS
» Mirror head can be locked in place or adjustable
» 3.5˝ x 1.5˝ rectangle convex mirror glass
» Mirror head swivels on a corrosion-free stainless steel ball joint that provides super-smooth action and longevity
» CNC machined from 6061 billet aluminum
» OEM-style stem (dimensions 4.3875˝ L x 1.5˝ W x 4.5˝ H)
» Hard black anodize or chrome-plated finishes
» Sold each
» Made in the U.S.A.
0640-1770
0640-1768
LE PERA
KICKFLIP UPFRONT SEATS
» The seat every freestyler would be stoked to own
» UpFront design moves the driver 2˝ closer to the handlebars than the stock seating position
» Top-grade black vinyl cover
» Baseplate is powdercoated steel and carpeted to protect painted surfaces
» Featuring Le Pera’s Marathon Foam for maximum stability and comfort
» Handcrafted with Le Pera’s iconic attention to detail
