December 1, 2017, 2:54 am
MAG’s capital and debt restructuring designed to allow it to “exploit growth opportunities”
By AMD Magazine Editor-in-Chief Robin BradleyThe news that the Motorsport Aftermarket Group (MAG) was eliminating approximately $300 million in debt through the Chapter 11 process (November 15, 2017) sent shockwaves around an already nervous industry. The Company’s release that announced the news was quite detailed and transparent, but that didn’t stop the rumor mill going into overdrive, with some online media outlets rushing to “false and dramatic conclusions rather than reporting the facts.” MAG is clear that it is “undergoing a balance sheet restructuring, not an operational one.” ![]()
I followed up on my February 2017 interview with MAG CEO Andy Graves a week later to add some context to the story.
Back in February, when I interviewed him at the Tucker Rocky/Biker’s Choice Dealer and Brand Expo in Texas, I did so in the context of industry rumors about the Group’s viability at that time following a round of cost control measures in the late summer of 2016.
In February one of the first questions I put to him was whether or not the company was trading profitably. He assured me that the business was profitable at that time. So, after the initial industry noise about the recent filings had calmed down somewhat, that was again the first questions I put to him.
“Absolutely,” was Graves’ immediate response. “In fact, if we were not profitable, then we wouldn’t have been able to put together this kind of capital restructuring plan at all.
“When Lacy Diversified Industries (LDI) bought MAG and merged it with Tucker Rocky/Biker’s Choice in early 2014, the motorcycle parts and accessory market had two or three years of growth under its belt. At that stage the motorcycle industry was one of many specialty leisure based consumer markets to have seen some recovery, and the widespread expectation at that stage was that, even if modest, there would continue to be at least some form of growth in the years ahead.
“Based on those judgements, LDI financed the transaction with a fairly high leverage. It is only ever with the benefit of hindsight that such judgements can themselves be judged. As everybody now knows, the three years since then simply have not seen that growth sustain.![]()
“This recapitalization of our balance sheet is designed to make sure that we are sufficiently well financed to ensure job security for out valued team members, and that the business can continue to pay its way and to exploit the undoubted growth opportunities that it has. We have a fantastic line-up of products, a very talented and dedicated team, and even in a down market, we will now be able to make the investments needed to help our brands, vendors and dealers prosper.
“The filing is based on a financial transaction that will reset our capital structure. It is one that will have very little effect on our day-to-day operations – certainly very little negative impact.
“There will be no layoffs arising from this, it is business as normal. The maximum possible level of vendor payables as permitted by the courts will be met, and that is something we are going to be petitioning the courts hard to allow us to maximize.
“The structure of the deal is a a debt for equity swap. This means that certain of MAG’s lenders will be trading our existing debt, the roughly $300 million, for equity in the reorganized Company. In other words, these lenders will be the new owners of MAG upon emergence. In addition, this same group of lenders is providing additional financing as a show of support and belief in MAG. Without this debt, our balance sheet is stronger and MAG is poised for growth.
“This means that LDI, Leonard Green & Partners (LGP) and the other legacy stake holders will no longer be a part of the ownership equation. In taking the hit, LDI and LGP are taking responsibility for the judgements they both made at the time of the merger.
“It is precisely because of the profitability of our trading position and the positive cash-flow generation position of the business that the new owners have been enthusiastic to provide us with this solution.”
“Moving forward, the business has the necessary capital to transition through the process and will have a substantially improved capital reduced debt position once it emerges.”
Graves thinks that the somewhat less than $50m of long-term debt that the company will be left with is a “perfectly manageable sum for a business of this size” and says it will form part of the asset backed revolving line of credit that the business has access to for funding day-to-day operations.
“In fact, the available line of asset backed credit we will have access to will go up to $115m, so we are well equipped to fund operations and make strategic decisions.
“Post restructuring we’ll have gone from $400m of debt, $350m of which was term debt, to less than $100m of debt in total. That is certainly a very manageable debt structure for us and it removes the burden that restrained us.
“In the meantime, we have access to $125m of court approved Debtor In Possession (DIP) financing to fund ongoing operations.”
Some of the wilder internet reports had suggested that MAG may have filed under the pressure of total indebtedness approaching $1 billion, but Graves is keen to assure the market that this is far from true and explains that a look at the petitions supports this fact.
“Unfortunately, a blogger took all of the petitions and added the liabilities numbers together which is where the incorrect figure came from. That approach, is not how one get to the total liabilities number. What folks don’t understand is that this is a very transparent process, everything is public and accessible to anyone who is interested. The danger however, is assumptions made by those who are not versed in this legal process making incorrect assumptions,” says Graves.
With regard to vendor payables, Graves says that all orders placed since the November 15th petition must be paid in full pursuant to the bankruptcy code. “That is the law, and that is what we are well funded to ensure.
“In an effort to ensure our vendors are not impaired, we are asking the Court for permission to pay any outstanding amounts owed vendors prior to the filing. Any goods received by us in the 20 days prior to the petition being filed will be paid in full. Older debts are then subject to bands and percentages based on age and what the bills were for. However, we will be certain to make every effort to ensure that the maximum possible amount is paid within the limits of the law, and we will be working the discretion that the courts have. We will make sure that the courts understand that our vendor partners are critical to the interests of all concerned on a moving forward basis.”
Turning to the future, Graves is positive about the outlook. “We think the work we have done to restructure and refine our business in the past 18 months has put us in good shape in strategic terms.
“We believe we are well structured and will now be well financed for the current market environment and for that environment in the coming years.”
In which connection, Graves agrees that reasons for cautious optimism appear to be emerging. “It is impossible to put a timescale on it at this stage, but even if we are faced with a season or two of an essentially flat market, there are signs that we should have seen the worst of the decline by now. Tucker Rocky has weathered the decline in the ‘metric’ market, where we have been essentially flat in a down market. For everyone though I think the decline in the V-twin sector has reflected quite directly and quite quickly into parts and accessory sales.
“However, we are seeing some signs of improvement in some parts of the country and some parts of the market. Oil industry regional employment appears to be picking up, and farm prices have improved, so with rural areas being so important for the powersports industry, it may be that the national employment statistics and still very good macro-economic indicators point to some improvement coming soon.
“I think that Harley’s new product program will start to see their numbers improve, and that Indian will continue to grow well. There are some signs that some of the newly emerging customer groups may be going to start to migrate towards mainstream custom platforms before long too.
“I think there are more positive trends emerging in the V-twin market than we’ve seen in the past couple of years. Certainly, from our point of view, I think our brands and their product lines are well positioned for whatever lies ahead. We have great product for traditional cruiser riders, and we also have the brands that can speak to the emerging generations of consumers, too. I think we are uniquely well placed in that respect.
“That is more reason why the timing of our capital restructuring makes sense. We want to be sure that we are able to respond to whatever demand emerges and capitalize on the strengths the business undoubtedly has.”
A feature length version of Robin Bradley’s interview with MAG CEO Andy Graves will appear in the next edition of AMD Magazine.
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December 6, 2017, 4:48 am
‘Red Shift’ bolt-in M-8 cam boosts power “right where you ride”
Noted performance Elkridge, Maryland, based specialist Zipper’s has added to its popular ‘Red Shift’ performance cams program with their 468 bolt-in grind for 107” and 114” Milwaukee-Eights.
Said to deliver “significant power improvements and throttle response right where you ride, the ‘Red Shift’ 468 is designed to complement the M-8 heads’ high intake flow, while its unique design overcomes the restrictive exhaust port for big gains in both torque and horsepower.”
The 468 “provides instant acceleration below 2,000 rpm while pulling strong to 6,000, really shining in the 2,000-4,000 rpm cruising range. Cranking compression is unchanged for easy starting, and the proven proprietary ‘Red Shift’ cam’s ramp design delivers quiet operation and longer valvetrain life.”
ZIPPER’S PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS
www.zippersperformance.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:48 am
‘Shortshots Staggered’ for 2018 Softails
Available for the 2018 Softail Street Bob, Low Rider, Slim, Deluxe, Heritage and Fat Bob, Californian manufacturer Vance & Hines describes their ‘Shortshots Staggered’ as a “timeless classic” and that their ”clean, compact lines transform the Milwaukee-Eight Softail into a ready-to-go custom.”
With what the company describes as an “aggressive hot rod sound” and “sleek” one-piece full coverage heat shields, ‘Shortshots Staggered’ are available in blue-proof chrome or matt black, with two optional levels of quiet baffle available.
These exhausts will not fit the 2018 Softail Fat Boy or Breakout.
VANCE & HINES
www.vanceandhines.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:49 am
Magnum XR handlebar installation kits
Upstate New York based specialist Magnum Shielding Corporation unveils its new XR Handlebar Installation Kits, which feature a great fit and excellent quality at an economical price. Magnum offers the “convenience of easy to order part numbers (by application and handlebar heights) with everything needed for installation included right in the kit.”![]()
XR installation kits are available for popular ABS and non-ABS Harley-Davidson motorcycles with 12” to 17” ape-hanger style handlebars installed and can be ordered either through Drag Specialties or directly from Magnum.
Two color combinations are available - OE black vinyl or clear coated stainless steel - with both featuring highly polished, chrome plated fittings.
All XR (which stands for ‘extreme response’) brake lines use an enhanced construction of heavy gauge stainless steel embedded in a tough, abrasion resistant nylon outer jacket that provides “outstanding durability and a superior braking response for safe riding.”
Magnum says that these brake line assemblies are not generic or universal style plumb together lines, but rather complete brazed assemblies that duplicate OE style fitments’ optimal appearance and easy no hassle professional installations. They are designed to exceed all DOT FMVSS-106 requirements for safe on-road use.
The stainless steel braided control cables are coated with a clear PVC non-yellowing jacket. As with the OE style black vinyl cables, both styles offer “exceptional protection” for paint or chrome. All cables have a low-effort, high-efficiency design that meets or exceeds all OE specifications for fitment, construction and endurance.
The kits include throttle and idle cables or throttle-by-wire extensions, clutch cable or XR hydraulic clutch line, XR brake lines, copper crush washers, hardware, turn signals and switch wiring extensions.
Noted in the market for premium Sterling Chromite and Black Pearl braids, Magnum’s General Manager, Tom Vierthaler, told AMD that “these new XR Installation Kits are the first economically priced kits we have ever offered, and given our reputation for accurate kit length fitments, this is nothing short of a home run for the industry.”
Company Founder and Owner Scott Hurwitz added that “while the pricing is easy on the wallet, there’s no compromise on quality. These kits offer all the performance, function and fitment attributes that our popular ‘Designer Series’ kits are known for, and are backed by the same warranty policy.”
MAGNUM SHIELDING
www.magnumshielding.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:49 am
XL racing style swingarmGerman customizer Fred Kodlin has introduced a large range of Sportster styling parts, including a Cafe Racer style rear fender and racing style rear fender. Added to his racing line for Sportsters, this racing swingarm accommodates 200 rear tires on Sportsters from 2004 and up. It comes black powder-coated with rear stainless steel axle, axle adjusters and TÜV approval.
Custom Chrome Europe, Germany, www.custom-chrome-europe.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:49 am
‘Reaper’ Chubby bars for Baggers
Those looking for the “ultimate custom 1.25” handlebars for their Bagger” should check out Wild 1’s Chubby Bagger ‘Reaper’ bars.![]()
Combining maximum comfort with a flatter wrist angle and attitude, these Chubbys ”not only make your bike look badass, but you sit up straighter and feel way better riding,” says Nate Schultz. The Chubby Bagger ‘Reapers’ come in sizes of 10, 12, 14 and 16” and, like all Chubbys, are drilled for internal wiring.
“They are made with the same double wall construction as all our other Chubbys with 1.25” diameter tubing. We take special care in the manufacturing process to make sure the inside corners are smooth, so the electrical doesn’t get hung up during installation (no shredding wires!). They are designed to lean you back on your ride and give you a much more comfortable wrist angle than stock.”
The 10” works with stock cable lengths on 2014 and up Baggers. They’re available in show chrome, satin black powder-coat or a raw finish. The Bagger ‘Reaper’ Chubby has been designed to fit all H-D Bagger models. All Wild 1’s products are 100% made in the USA since 1996.
WILD 1 INC.
www.wild1inc.com
www.chubbyhandlebars.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:50 am
Twin Power V-twin lubricants
Manufactured, blended and bottled in the USA from 100% U.S. sourced components, this new line of Twin Power lubricants is “ready for the demanding performance of American V-twin motorcycles.”![]()
The new line includes a 25W60 premium engine oil, 20W50 synthetic engine oil, Sportster transmission fluid primary chain lube, semi-synthetic transmission oil, transmission gear lube and fork oil.
“We had the lubricants evaluated using four industry standard tests, and the final results showed that our oils tested superior to other competitive oils on the market,” said James Simonelli, Brand Manager for Twin Power. The four tests were the Falex Pin & V Block Test, Four Ball Wear Test, NOACK Volatility Test and Viscosity Index Test.
The new range comes in heavy gauge, wide mouth bottles that feature foil sealed caps and color-coded labels and caps for easy product identification. “Each lubricant has been manufactured from superior base stock that provides more consistent viscosity, extreme wear resistance and increased stability at high temperatures.”
The engine oils exceed JASO MA2 specification, providing increased shear stability, film strength and clutch performance, which allows them to be used in wet clutch and transmission applications if desired.
BIKER’S CHOICE
www.twinpower-usa.com
www.bikerschoice.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:50 am
‘Monster Sucker’ kits with patented ‘Hidden Breather’ technology
Available with or without forged billet covers, Arlen Ness ‘Monster Sucker’ air cleaner kits feature their patented Big Sucker ‘Hidden Breather’ technology and more filter surface area for maximum performance.
The ‘Hidden Breathers’ are O-ringed at the heads and exit out of the mouth of the throttle body to provide efficient engine breathing, eliminating the need for any external hoses or hardware.
The filter features a built-in inverted top to pull in air not only from all sides of the filter but also from the front, “which results in more performance-gaining airflow”. Each re-usable filter is constructed from synthetic material that is water resistant, which in most cases eliminates the need for a rain sock and does not require oil – just rinse and re-use.
They fit with fairing lowers and are available in a choice of finishes - 10-Gauge, chrome or black, beveled chrome or black and Deep Cut chrome or black, with optional forged covers to match.
DRAG SPECIALTIES
www.dragspecialties.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:52 am
Avon Tyres: The leading custom motorcycle tire manufacturer has added to its ever-popular Cobra range of touring tires with two new fronts (130/60B19 and 130/60B21) and two new rears (160/70B17 and 180/55B18). A firm favorite with custom shops and custom bike builders, Avon’s Cobras were introduced in 2007 as a replacement line for the venerable Venoms. Described as delivering “style and performance for cruisers, customs and tourers,” they are backed by Avon’s Road Hazard warranty program and 15,000-mile warranty; www.avonmoto.com
Beringer: Noted worldwide for its manufacturing quality, French made Beringer brake calipers and rotors, 6-piston Aerotec and 4 and 6-piston radial calipers are sold to leading custom shops and bike builders worldwide; www.beringer-brakes.com
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December 6, 2017, 4:56 am
Bigger Barber
The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and Barber Motorsports Park at Birmingham, Alabama, has made major facility improvements.
An additional 85,000 sq ft of space has been added to the Barber Museum, making it more than a quarter of a million sq ft in total – said to be the largest motorcycle museum in the world, housing the largest collection of motorcycles in the world (over 1,400 and counting), the museum drew 270,000 visitors last year.![]() |
| The 880-acre Barber Motorsports Park, housing the 2,300 sq ft Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum |
Two new pedestrian bridges give access to the infield areas within the 16-turn, 2.38 mile, 45-foot wide race track, and a newly constructed Barber Proving Grounds complex includes a multi-configurable track, classrooms, wet/dry skid pad, obstacle course and 50-acre off-road course.
With its creative architecture and great attention to detail, the museum showcases over 100 years of motorcycle production. More than 650 bikes can be seen on any given day, and 200 different manufacturers from 20 countries are represented in the collection—from Harley-Davidson, Honda and Indian to Showa, DSK and Cagiva.![]() |
| Facilities include 25,000 sq ft of meeting space and a 74-seat multimedia theatre |
The motorcycle collection started with the first acquisitions in 1988 and includes around 100 Harleys, with 99 percent of all the bikes in the collection said to be able to run within an hour of prep; the only machines that do not run are the wood and unattainable replicas.
Efforts are made to restore each machine to its original specifications. Some machines bear period modifications – “with the diversity of the collection, some inconsistencies are inevitable, yet we continuously add to our research library and discover and correct inconsistencies.![]() |
| The 2.38 mile, 45-foot wide road racing track |
At any one time, more than 600 motorcycles are on display in the museum – “we have many bikes in storage, and museum guests can view this area of the collection during large events and when purchasing a Premium Museum Tour, which includes the Restoration Level.
“There have been over 2,500 bike manufacturers around the world since 1900. We have purchased from as far away as Australia, New Zealand and Sweden, and we have 216 different manufacturers represented from 20 different countries.![]() |
| Proving Grounds track with wet skid pad and classroom overlooking the track |
“The vision for the museum began as a car collection and then took on the role of motorcycle collection. But cars were never forgotten. The museum has focused primarily on Lotus race cars, although other cars are exhibited.”
The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit, with proceeds going to local and national charities, to generate positive publicity for the region and to attract visitors to Birmingham, Alabama, from across the country and around the world.
www.barbermuseum.org
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December 6, 2017, 4:57 am
Biker Fest 2018 to host AMD World Championship affiliate custom bike show
The 32nd annual Biker Fest (aka Italian Bike Week) at Lignano Sabbiadoro, on the Adriatic coast of Italy, north of Venice, will be staged from 10 - 13 May 2018, again hosting the Italian Custom Bike Championship finals, the official affiliate round of the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building for Italy.![]()
This year saw thousands of bikers descend on Lignano Sabbiadoro for one of Europe’s oldest custom bike events, the brainchild of father and son team Moreno and Micke Persello, creators of the original Chopper and Custom Show at Padua back in the 1990s and publishers of leading Italian custom lifestyle magazine Biker’s Life.
Next year will be the seventh time the ever-popular Biker Fest will play host to the climax of the 12 city/event Italian Bike Championship with no less than four builders winning 1,000.00 euro each of expenses to compete at ‘AMD XIII’ at INTERMOT ‘Customized’ in Cologne, Germany, in October 2018.
Over 100 bikes in total were on display at the impressive Terrazza Mare, and classes will again include Freestyle, Modified Harley-Davidson, Metric, Streetfighter/Sportsbike, Cafe Racer, Scrambler, Bagger and Old Style, with the three ‘Best in Show’ winners and ‘Public Vote’ pick scooping the ‘AMD’ prize money being put up by the show organizers.![]() |
| Best in Show, Italian Motorcycle Championship, 2017 |
With a larger vendor presence at the event this year, an expanded additional “customizer” vendor area was set up opposite the Terrazza (in addition to the usual vendor lot at Luna Park) where there were opportunities for builders and custom shops to present their work - a new feature in 2016 that is developing into a popular opportunity for custom builders to connect with the over 35,000 riders who attend.
Exhibitors backing Biker Fest in 2017 included Custom Chrome Europe, Motorcycle Storehouse, Free Spirits, Italian suspension specialists Andreani and Bitubo, Asso Special Bike and motorcycle manufacturers such as Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycle, BMW, Honda, Aprilia, Ducati (Scrambler) and Moto Guzzi.
www.bikerfest.it
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December 13, 2017, 2:46 am
W&W Cycles – always attending
to the details
Samwel Flathead frames
The European made reproduction 45” Flathead style frames seen here are from Samwel Supplies of the Netherlands – a well-known and leading old style parts manufacturer. They can be used as a stock replacement or as a basis for a scratch build bobber or chopper and fit 45”/750cc solo models from 1941 to 1952. Made in steel and drop-forged steel and available in black powder-coated finish.
‘Slant’ RSD exhaust systems
These ‘Slant’ 2:1 exhaust systems are designed by Roland Sands Design (RSD) in satin finish stainless steel with race style spring secured muffler connections. Manufactured for RSD by Vance & Hines, they have drilled heat shields and slash-cut carbon end caps; suitable for 2004 and up Sportsters (not homologated in Europe yet), they have a 1 ¾” header.
LED inserts and spotlights
As LED based lamps are get more popular, these E1 approved 12v 5 ¾” LED inserts allow traditional optics to be maintained with all the durability and benefits of bright LED technology. Features include clear polycarbonate lenses, chrome-coloured edging and shade borders.
Also seen here, these steel, ECE approved 12v custom LED spotlights are similar to the classic 1962 and up spotlights, but with updated technology. They feature E13-approved LED inserts for a state-of-the-art lighting performance. Available chromed or black, with tinted LED lamp insert and mounting block.
Daytona indicator lights
Daytona Beta 12v indicator light units are precision made micro LED indicator light units which feature a durable, strong billet aluminum housing with five LED indicators for turn signals, oil, high beam and neutral; they come with a stainless steel bracket for universal installation; available chromed or black.
‘Zeus’ USB charger socket
From Pangea Speed, this 5v/1.5A 60mm ‘Zeus’ USB charger socket and switch has a strong, durable billet aluminum housing with built-in bracket and stand-off spacer to make them easy to mount nearly anywhere. A rubber lid keeps out dirt and water when the charger is not in use; comes with 120 cm wires, mounting bolt and wire terminals.
Brillman accessories
W&W have added a number of USA made Brillman accessories, including these 7mm vintage ignition wires with old school style braided cotton 16-gauge spark plug wire for custom cable fabrication. It contains modern PVC insulation and stranded copper for top performance – note though that copper core wires should not be used with electronic ignitions other than Dyna “S”; 12 color versions available. Brillman’s vintage ignition wire terminals for vintage style braided cotton spark plug wires are available in a wide selection of fittings and terminals – including fork, ring, snap and hook types. ![]()
Also seen here, Brillman’s 24mm old style 180-degree coil boots protect plug cables’ connectors from the elements and the hands from electric strikes; made in black rubber. Brillman 6mm brass spark plug thumb nuts connect the ignition wires to the threaded studs of the stock spark plugs when using vintage style terminals, while their 13mm magneto thumb nuts are in classic bakelite to connect the ground wire that comes from the kill switch to the magneto’s interrupter housing.
Bates handlebars
New W&W handlebar options include these German made Bates 77cm wide by 35.5 cm high ‘Long Beach’ and 91 cm by 16.5 cm high ‘Big Sur’ designs in chromed or black powder-coated or bare finish 3mm wall thickness steel. Available with W1 plain or W2 cable routing, with or without dimples, for 1981 and 1982 and up applications.
DBBP Wave Bars
These 67 cm DBBP Wave Bars by Dutch based customizer Mark van der Kwaak feature “distinctive design and meticulous craftsmanship” with a cast center piece low mounting on the upper triple tree - directly bolting to the upper crown without risers for a sleek look.
Biltwell ‘Utility’ mirrors
These 98mm stem length ‘Utility’ mirrors by Biltwell are made in die-cast aluminum with a stainless steel ball joint. The threaded base accepts a 5/16-18 stainless steel button cap Allen bolt for easy mounting on a wide range of stock and aftermarket hand controls; available chromed or matt black.
W&W CYCLES AG
www.wwag.com
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December 13, 2017, 2:47 am
Stock replacement rising rate springs
Internationally well known for their sportbike and streetbike suspensions, Dutch specialist Hyperpro has had Harley-Davidson (and more recently Indian Motorcycle) model-specific suspension applications in its line-up ever since the company began in business in 1993.
Their range includes stock replacement and performance upgrade rear shock absorbers and rising rate/progressively wound shock absorber springs, front suspension springs, full front end suspension kits and one of the best known and most widely used steering damper programs in the market.![]()
Hyperpro rising rate progressive front fork springs “provide your bike a lot of comfort while riding, a shorter braking distance and prevent the bike from bottoming out,” says International Sales and Marketing VP Jan Belder.
“Together with the specially formulated oil that comes with the springs – an oil that is blended to our own precise requirements – we create better controlled damping, which results in a much more comfortable feeling while riding on the straight and while cornering. It is all about confidence and consistent, reliable and predictable response.
Our rising rate progressive rear spring sets can be mounted on the original shocks for a hugely noticeable and immediate improvement. Due to the rising rate design of the springs, they also give a comfortable feeling in all conditions and riding circumstances, from the wet to the dry, solo, two-up, with or without luggage, the spring rate will automatically adjust for every need of the suspension. Together with a set of progressive front fork springs, it gives the bike its needed balance and much more stability.
Hyperpro front fork and rear shock absorber springs are available for Sportster, Dyna, Touring, VRSC, XR and Street models. The company has 25 employees, a 10,000 sq ft (1,000 sq m) facility at Werkendam in southern Holland, and is exporting to more than 40 countries around the world.
HYPERPRO
www.hyperpro.com
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December 13, 2017, 2:48 am
Authentic premium quality lights
Designed by award-winning custom bike builder Mario Kyprianides, Chopper Kulture E-approved H4 headlights and LED taillights and turn signals are available in a selection of polished or black body with brass or polished bezel combinations.
The headlights have an outer diameter of 5” (125mm with 4.8”/122mm depth) and headlight unit visible diameter of 3 5/8” (92mm). Made from 7075 billet aluminum in a polished, gloss black or flat black finish, with a matching aluminum or polished brass bezel, the bottom-mount bracket enables them to be installed on virtually all lower triple tree plates.
The taillights are in billet aluminum in a polished, gloss black or flat black finish, with a matching aluminum or polished brass bezel. They are mounted with a single 1/4” bolt and bundled wiring by drilling two holes in the fender and are 2” (50mm) in overall diameter and 2” (50mm) deep.The turn signals are also available in a variety of anodized finishes and blend a combination of aluminum and brass bodies with the kind of bezel detail normally found on much larger headlight trims; they measure 2 1/4” (57mm) long, 1 1/8” (28,5mm) deep and have a diameter of 27,6mm. Sold in sets of two, they are a simple bolt-on install for almost any motorcycle.
CHOPPER KULTURE
www.chopperkulture.com
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December 13, 2017, 2:49 am
Windzone puts you in the tool zone
Austin, Texas based tool specialist Windzone, a motorcycle garage and roadside emergency tool manufacturer, has improved its tools and expanded its line.![]()
“We’re the oldest motorcycle tool manufacturer in the world, and our brand has been recognized by riders for a long, long time - over 25 years,” says Chip Thomson, the President of Windzone.
“The line has continued to be popular, but it’s now time to give Windzone a fresher look with improved products and an opportunity for many thousands more riders to enjoy the unmatched quality that can save them when they’re in need on the road,” Chip says.
Chip went on to explain that Windzone has always been known for having a solid line of toolkits, at various price points, but, regardless of cost, every one of their tool sets comes with a “Forever” guarantee, something that’s almost unheard of these days. “We don’t care if you break one of our tools with a breaker bar, or run over it with a forklift. It’s a tool, it’s not supposed to break. Kind of worthless if it does, so ‘Forever’ is the kind of warranty we think tools should have.”
The line runs from a choice of ‘Economy’ essential kits through to a ‘Road Doctor’ set that anticipates the vast majority of roadside needs that any rider might encounter. “Though all high strength,” Chip went on to say, “we have also focussed on making sure that our kits are lightweight enough to be truly portable and unobtrusive, as well as comprehensive enough to be truly practical and worth their small footprint.”
Available through Biker’s Choice, other selected distributors, and direct from Windzone which ships worldwide.
WINDZONE
www.windzone.com
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December 13, 2017, 2:49 am
Weld-free drive side brake kit for Softails
German wheel manufacturer TTS has added to the range of matching parts and accessories they offer with this drive side brake kit for Softail models 1989-2017.
With no welding to the swingarm required, the fully reversible install can re-use the original belt guard, greatly increasing the durability of the belt and the belt pulleys.
This kit is currently available in versions for 1989-1999 and 2000-2017 five-speed Softails, 2008-2017 six-speeds, and 2008-2017 six-speed Rockers and Breakouts.
TTS MOTORCYCLES
www.wheelspoint.de
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December 13, 2017, 2:53 am
Kibblewhite compression release valves
These new KPMI branded compression release valves manufactured by Pacifica, California based specialist Kibblewhite Precision Machining reduce cylinder compression at initial start-up, and with 5-7 newtons of resistance force, they won’t close early, and when they do close full compression is restored, which is ideal for high-demand applications. ![]()
Featuring custom molded knobs to ensure a cool touch and easy operation, they ship in pairs, have 0.350” M10 x 1 thread lengths for EVOs and Shovelheads (1.050” upper body) and Twin Cams (1.380” upper body), so they are easier to install than the OEM items they replace; also available with 0.500” (1.250” upper body) for OE replacement.
KIBBLEWHITE PRECISION MACHINING
www.kpmi.us
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December 13, 2017, 2:57 am
Davida KOURA full-face – modern standards, retro styling, multiple approvals
British helmet specialist Davida has followed up on last year’s well received and extensively updated V3 ‘Speedster’ half shell helmet with another step in the direction of worldwide approvals for its designs and a first entry into the full-face market.![]()
Certified to ECER22-05 and shortly to be followed by DOT FMVS 281 and ACU Gold, the new Davida KOURA will be available in early 2018 in both road and race versions.
Davida's first full-face helmet is a result of the enhancement of their technical team with the very best expertise of Italian MotoGP and F1 racing helmet designers who delivered the smallest-profile road-legal Davida Speedster V3 in 2016.
“The intensification of this collaboration, utilizing access to the latest helmet design technology and expertise, has created another stunning, high quality, modern Davida safety product.
“Integrating the clean contours and compact proportions of the 70s and 80s full-face designs, together with key race-bred features, we have achieved an uncompromising fusion of innovative design, exceptional ergonomics and superior comfort that is as authentic in its aesthetics as it is in its advanced technology. ![]()
“Achieving road safety standards is the start of our design process, it's not the finishing line. We always work to extend the design boundaries above and beyond conventions, and consumer and industry reaction at EICMA, in the heartland of style, was exceptional.
“Introducing a full-face helmet marks a new era for us. The Davida KOURA delivers everything you'd demand from a high-performance motorcycle helmet together with the level of quality and integrity Davida helmets are known for: compact and close fitting, exceptional ergonomics, high quality paintwork, supremely luxurious interiors and unrivalled fit and product durability - it's beautiful, yet aggressive.”
Featuring an advanced 'orbital laminated' GPR composite shell construction for exceptional strength, or even lighter, stronger T700 grade racing carbon fiber, the shell shape is designed to give optimal weight-balanced ergonomic performance.
Gradually sculptured upwards from front to rear to eliminate clothing interference, six chin air vents provide airflow to a superior optic grade 3 mm ECER22-05 approved F1 performance level anti-scratch, anti-fog visor, with clear and smoke tint replacements available, and optional 3 mm superior optic grade tear-off enabled visors offered for race track or road.
Additional features include secure visor lockdown and easy-release mechanism, multi-density EPS shock absorption liners, additional cheek pad inserts for closer optimal customized fitting. It is supplied with a removable, washable, fast drying, anti-bacterial fabric liner that is interchangeable with aftermarket leather liner kits in five colors.
Secured using traditional webbing strap and a double-D ring, KOURA is available in the Davida 20 core color range as standard, in two shell sizes, two EPS liner sizes and six different comfort liners in six helmet sizes from XS (54) to XXL (61).
DAVIDA (UK) LTD
www.davida-helmets.com
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December 13, 2017, 2:58 am
Thunder Stroke Stage 3 116” Big Bore kit
Indian Motorcycle has announced what it describes as the “next evolution of its performance accessory offerings with the Thunder Stroke 116-Cubic-Inch Stage 3 Big Bore kit - compatible with all Indian Motorcycle heavyweight models powered by the Thunder Stroke 111 engine.”![]()
The kit is said to deliver a 15 percent increase in torque and a 20 percent increase in horsepower when compared to the stock Thunder Stroke 111.
“The bagger landscape is seeing more and more emphasis on performance, with more riders looking to get on the throttle and carve corners as they would on smaller bikes, and that’s exactly what the Stage 3 kit is about,” said Derek Meyer, Sr. Category Manager, Indian Motorcycle Accessories.
“Indian’s roots are in performance, innovation and pushing boundaries, and this 116” kit is but one of a variety of new products riders will see from us moving forward, grounded in and driven by Indian’s performance DNA.”
This kit joins a line-up of performance upgrade kits that includes Indian’s Stage 1 performance air cleaner and Thunder Stroke high flow air cleaner, Stage 1 slip-on exhaust kit and Stage 2 performance cams that “enhance throttle response and increase greater power across the powerband.”
www.indianmotorcycle.com
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December 13, 2017, 3:00 am
Motion Pro: Founded in 1984 by 6-day ISDT gold medal winner Chris Carter, his Loomis, California based specialty tools and accessory enterprise marked the reboot of the AFT Twins Presented by Vance & Hines series this year by being the official cable, tool and controls vendor and brand for the series. Under the guidance of V-Twin Product Planner Joe Fratis, the company continues to grow its specialty V-twin program of tools, cables, throttles and accessories; www.motionpro.com
Cardo Systems: The “global market leader in communication systems for motorcyclists” recently launched the Q-solo – a Bluetooth headset for single riders who are primarily in the market for an easy-to-use and highly reliable communicator equipped with a high quality, noise-cancelling microphone for optimal phone communications; www.cardosystems.com
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ASA Jensen: Recent new products from the Elkhart, Indiana based manufacturer include a follow-up to the award-winning HD1BT525 H-D replacement stereo package by adding “over an inch more of booming sound” with all-new 6.5-inch speakers; www.asaelectronics.com
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