Dealernews Issue#4 April 2021 by Dealernews

DN 2.0 #4

REVIVAL!

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER: Illustratrator Hector Cademartori outdid himself with this tribute to the incomparable Mary McGee. “The ‘Mary’ logo is what was painted on some of her helmets and I had to guess at some of the colors because most of the photos were black & white.” See more of Hector’s portfolio here: https://hectorcademartori.com/

22 4

OUR TEAM Bob Althoff World’s Luckiest Man

06 WORLD’S LUCKIEST MAN 08 EDITOR’S NOTE 10 LETTERS+ 14 NEWS+ 18 SHIFTING GEARS+ 22 INTERVIEW+ 26 INTERVIEW+ 28 INDUSTRY RESEARCH+ 30 INDUSTRY RESEARCH+ 32 INDUSTRY RESEARCH+ 36 INDUSTRY RESEARCH+ 38 DEALER PROFILE(S) 43 SHOWTIME+ 44 MOTOCROSS REVIVAL

Bob Althoff On Dancing With The One What Brung Ya Robin Hartfiel On Up In Smoke The Industry On Dealernews News Dealers Can Use Getting Back To Work

Mary McGee On Reviving The Industry

I’m Not Mary McGee… Jamie Pamintuan. Del Amo Motorsports Dr. Paul Leinberger On Revival Of The Roaring Twenties

Lenny Sims On NADAGuides Numbers Don Musick On TX Marks The Spot NPA’s Jim Woodruff On Pre-Owned Top Triumph Dealers In North America The Show(s) Must Go On

Bringing Back The Golden Era Of MX To Revive Its Future

48 CELEBRATION! 50 IMS OUTDOORS

Old Fashioned Revival Meeting For Women Riders

52 54 57 58 62 64 66 68 70 72 76 78 79 80

DIVERSITY+

Alisa Clickenger On The Importance Of Anniversaries

PERFORMANCE+

Mark Rodgers On The One Reason You Should Ignore Your 20 Group

eDEALERNEWS

EV Market Charges Ahead

CURRENTS+ Watts Up?

ADVOCACY+

Scot Harden On Reviving The Nevada 200 Tradition

PERSONNEL FILES

Alex Baylon On Undercover Boss

CONFESSIONS OF A CUSTOMER

Eric Anderson On Confessions Of A Renaissance Man

MIC RIDE REPORT

Gene Lydick On MIC BankCard

EDITORIAL Robin Hartfiel Editor Gus Stewart Creative Director Brenda Stiehl Production Manager CONTRIBUTORS Don Musick Genesys Technology Solutions Dr. Paul Leinberger Denny+Leinberger Strategy Eric Anderson Vroom Network Jim Woodruff National Powersport Auctions Lenny Sims NADA Appraisal Guides Scot Harden AMA Hall Of Fame/Harden Offroad Hector Cademartori Illustrations William Douglas Little Unique Powersports Charlie Williams Off Road Editor Marq Smith Holeshot Motorsports, Canada Alisa Clickenger Women’s Motorcycle Tours Don Amador Quiet Warrior Racing Joe Bonnello Joe B Photography Uncle Paul Wunsch Love Cycles The Anonymous Dealer

ADVOCACY+

Dealer Advisory Board Bob Althoff Chairman

GEAR+

Joey Belmont Big #1 Sports Jim Boltz Lynnwood Cycle Barn/WMDA Jim Foster Killeen Power Sports George Gatto Gatto Harley-Davidson Malcolm Hunter Deeley Harley-Davidson Robert Kay Star City Motorsports Bob Kee Destination Cycle Jerry Lenz Beaverton Motorcycles Kurt Mechling Performance PowerSports Don Owens Dothan Powersports Mark Peterson Southwest Superbikes Sandy Stroope Boat World Honda Polaris

Don Amador On A Rising Tide Revives All Boats

Gearing Up For Revival In 2021

PRESS PASS+

Wiseco Presents 2-Stroke World Championships

VALE+

Ave Atque Vale Dale Walksler

AD INDEX

This issue Brought To You By…

Parting Shot+

Harley-Davidson Revives The ElectraGlide

Reimagining & Reviving Consumer Show Series

ADVERTISING

Photo courtesy of FLY

Robin Hartfiel Publisher (949) 489-4306 robinhartfiel@gmail.com Blake Foulds Account Executive (760) 715-3045 Blakefoulds@dealernews.com John Murphy Publishing Consultant johnmurphydn@gmail.com

APRIL 2021

World’s Luckiest Man By Bob Althoff

DANCE WITH WHO BRUNG YOU

lthough everyone from Asleep At The Wheel (Dance with who brung you) to Shania Twain (Dance with the one who brought you) seems to have a song about it, the expression and the intent of the “You’ve gotta dance with them what brung ya” quote actually comes from football lore. Darell Royal, coach of the University of Texas football team from 1957 to 1976, is credited as the source of the saying.

In the sports context, it means “Don’t replace the players who have been winning for you.” But even former President Ronald Reagan used it. Reagan’s point was simple: In politics, as in life, you support those who support you. You are loyal to those who have made you... and that’s not just in good times, or when it happens to suit you. Same holds true in powersports. Often in this space, I will point out the important content Dealernews has been known for. Our talented editorial team; our Hall of Fame and PhD contributors; and the pivotal position we command in our industry — earned by serving the dealers for the past 55 years — all pretty much portend to the fact that every issue will be chock full of pretty important stuff. But I want to call your attention to another bunch of important content — that being the messages of our advertisers. It is they who pay the freight for all of us who are vitally interested in our industry. We, all of us, owe them a great debt of gratitude. They care about our industry, its health and its growth. They care enough to put their dollars into supporting Dealernews — and, importantly, you, our many thousands of Dealernews readers. Take notice of precisely who these advertisers are. We should actively consider how we can, in turn, support them by purchasing their goods and services whenever possible. These good folks are a part of the solution. For that, I am grateful. Their presence in our pages should never be overlooked. There are a lot of good guys and gals in our industry. These are among the best dance partners anyone could have. Bob

Editor’s Note By Robin Hartfiel

DID 2020 REALLY GO UP IN SMOKE?

s I write this on 4/20 Day, the second hand smoke had me curious as to how high the dirtbike sales were last year... and if they will be high enough to continue carrying the market past the pandemic? How did powersports fare compared to the ‘real’ world and how can we keep the momentum going despite the supply chain problems? Is NORML the new normal... And where are those Doritos? (Just kidding, no dope was smoked in the making of this column and I don’t really have the munchies). Actually, the National Retail Federation (NRF) says holiday sales were high and 2020 closed with a buzz. “Retail sales during the 2020’s November/December holiday season grew unexpectedly to a high of 8.3% over the same period in 2019... up to $789.4 billion, exceeding NRF holiday forecast despite the economic challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic,” NRF said. The numbers include online and other non-stores sales, which were up 23.9% at $209 billion. For the powersports industry it seems like this high has continued through Q1, despite increasing inventory issues on both the OEM and aftermarket side. “Despite unprecedented challenges, consumers and retailers demonstrated incredible resilience this holiday season,” explains NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “Faced with the rising transmission of the virus, state restrictions on retailers and heightened political and economic uncertainty, consumers chose to spend on gifts that lifted the spirits of their families and friends and provided a sense of normalcy given the challenging year.”

NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz adds consumers shifted into high gear in December, giving the holiday season a strong finish. The 8.3% holiday season increase was more than double the 3.5% average holiday increase over the previous five years, including 2019’s 4% gain. “There was a massive boost to most consumer wallets this past holiday season,” Kleinhenz claims. “Consumers were able to splurge on holiday gifts because of increased money in their bank accounts from the stimulus payments they received earlier in the year and the money they saved by not traveling, dining out or attending entertainment events. “Some families are still struggling, as are some retail sectors, but the promise of a new round of stimulus checks after a deal was struck before Christmas helped increase consumer confidence. Consumers were also encouraged by the news of COVID-19 vaccines becoming available, which helped offset concerns about increased infection rates and state restrictions on activity.” NRF had forecast that sales during the 2020 holiday season — defined as November 1 through December 31 — would increase between 3.6% and 5.2% over 2019 to a total between $755.3 billion and $766.7 billion. Instead, sales were up 8.3%! The forecast called for online sales to increase between 20% and 30% to between $202.5 billion and $218.4 billion. These numbers excluded automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants… and we already saw how the powersports market responded in 2020 and early Q1. Our own Dr. Leinberger adds that we are facing an inflection point. These holiday numbers could be the gift that keeps on giving throughout 2021. “Pent-up demand is driving much of the optimism. Many venture capitalist firms expect consumer spending to explode in the coming months. As consumers emerge from their cocoons, VC firms expect consumers to let loose this summer as we are about to experience the next “Roaring Twenties.” But be careful what you ask for, he cautions. “There is a danger that consumer spending might shift away from powersports and towards categories where pent-up demand is the strongest – like travel, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, live entertainment, fashion and selected retail. I am not predicting such a scenario, but if the data suggests a shift in that direction, you need to be ready to take decisive action. Alternatively, if the economy expands dramatically and powersports sales follow suit, you need to be sure that the supply chain issues that developed in 2020 will never happen again.” Supply shortages, the Suez shipping SNAFU and inventory issues are seemingly bigger limitations than consumer demand for powersports products. While it is not exactly the time for a chorus of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” it is time to step up and meet the demand. “Whatever the future brings, the message remains the same: change brings opportunity if you are ready to act decisively when circumstances change,” concludes Leinberger. Put that in your pipe and smoke it! Former Editor-in-Chief and publisher of Dealernews circa 19902003, Robin returns to the magazine. In addition to having been instrumental in creating the Dealernews Top 100 program (still the industry’s ultimate accolade for a motorcycle dealership), Hartfiel has worked for most of the B2B publications in the Powersports arena. Prior to the trade side, he worked as a beat reporter for a local newspaper and was an editor of publications ranging from All About Beer to VW Trends.

Outdoors on March 7th with the Joe Lloyd Memorial and finishes October 24th at Lake Sugar Tree MX. Adding in a new race location for 2021, the Graves Mountain Hare Scramble in Syria, Virginia. Also new for 2021, six of our race locations are holding twoday events. At these rounds, the Pee Wee, Mini and Tykes races will be on Saturday. The big bike events will be on Sunday. For information on the Virginia Championship Hare Scramble Series, visit www.vchss.org

DN 2.0 #3

THE BIGGEST, BADDEST TOY STORE IN THE COUNTRY

GAIL’S POWERSPORTS

LOVE LETTER TO MARK RODGERS & THE WOMEN’S PANEL I watched the Women’s Roundtable and Interview with Gail Worth videos this morning and wanted to tell you how much I really enjoyed and appreciated them! I’ve quietly felt and believed many of these things that Gail and the other ladies were saying and it was a great feeling to know that other women have the same views and I learned so much from hearing their perspective and experience! I took a lot of notes and glad it is recorded! Dealer Panel: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bng92gCMaXU&t=1409s Dealer Profile: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=c6qdyl8IXu4&t=450s I liked how Mark Rodgers facilitated the conversation and the great questions he asked during both interviews! Great job all around! Those women are really inspiring! Thanks for putting together Dealernews and for including great content on all aspects of motorcycling! Tigra Tsujikawa On The Go San Clemente,CA

DEALERNEWS HAS THE BEST COVERS… Dealernews always has the best covers, but Mark Kariya’s February cover shot from King Of The Motos was exceptional. Peggy Hartfiel Via The Internet Thanks Mom. Kato really is the best, and not just because he is from Fallbrook.

YOU CAN QUOTE ME ON THE KLR! Political rancor pales in comparison to the vitriol being spewed by the ADV crowd over the 2022 KLR 650. Now I know how Trump feels. I look at it like this: Instead of dumping your wife of 30 years for some hot young filly with twin 700cc tah tahs, get her a face lift and tummy tuck and a new outfit and take her out for dinner and dancing. And you can quote me on that. Cheers, Paul Golde, Retired Once & Future KLR Owner Rancho Relaxo, CA

THANKS! Thank you very much, we have been reaching out to many in the print media and online and have not had much success in getting our news releases published or even getting responses to our emails. Thank you again, Ted Marriner, 2021 VCHSS Media Coordinator Virginia Championship Hare Scrambles Series Happy to help get the word out on the VCHSS, Ted. https://www.dealernews. com/DN-Events The Virginia Championship Hare Scramble Series started at River’s Edge

ALL ABOUT BEER? I finally had time to listen to the full podcast, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Robin has been such a key figure in the development of communications for the dealers and our industry that I was sure it would be interesting, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. I was amazed by the breadth of his experience and knowledge in so many fields. So many things stood out. Fascinating discussion

it into what has become a “must” read for the powersports industry. of Robin’s All About Beer journey. The story of the KTM trip to Austria was great as well – loved the little inside story of Malcolm Smith. He’s always been an idol to me, and he still remembers my name even when I haven’t seen him in years. Love that man. Thank you both for putting this together. I’m also very positive that this will help the drive for the long-needed National Dealers’ Association. If you can think of any role I can play in that, please let me know. As a Dealer Advocate, it has been on my mind for many years. Scary discussion on the new direction that some newspapers are taking with compensation for journalists. So much for the future of truthful information and delivery of significant news… Hope the disease doesn’t spread. Best wishes and thank you, Steve Jones,President SJ Consulting, Inc. www.stevejonesconsults.com

BAD IDEA GAINS TRACTION I meant to respond last week but it’s been an incredibly hectic period of time for me for the past few weeks and months. Currently marking the course for the 37th Nevada 200 Trail Ride, I’m very grateful to be a part of the “bad idea” Bob Althoff, Eric Anderson, Robin Hartfiel, John Murphy and others came up with regarding relaunching Dealernews and I’m very glad to see you are gaining traction. I’ve enjoyed being a part of the team that has helped turn

Scot Harden, VP Business Development Best In The Desert/Harden Offroad/Dealernews

CALL AMERICAN HONDA! Why aren’t you covering the cargo ships with powersports products stuck for more than 3 weeks in the port of Long Beach, CA? This is having a huge adverse affect on dealers and national retail sales directly. Call American Honda. Julie Cedar Creek Motorsports Cedarburg, WI Prior to the Suez SNAFU really fouling things up, we did indeed call our friends at Honda and here is what Colin Miller, M/C Public Relations - Assistant Manager American Honda Motor Co. Inc. had to say: “Regarding the Port backup issue: It’s definitely causing problems in getting product off of the ships and to the warehouses. This is something that all supply chains are dealing with right now. It’s something that our staff are working on constantly, but there are limits to what they can do.

“When you look off-shore you can see just how many ships are sitting and waiting to unload. This mainly affects the 2-wheel products and any parts suppliers from overseas. As you know for touring our factory, Honda does have a benefit that many of our 4-wheel products are produced locally at the HSC factory in South Carolina. This has helped us provide products and keep things flowing for the ATVs and Talons. However, the port situation has caused even disruptions at local factories, especially if they are waiting on a part from a supplier. “There is quite a bit of info about the record increases of imports that the ports are dealing with right now. I hope this info helps.” According to The Maritime Executive which tracks these things for more in-depth than Dealernews, traffic through the Port of Long Beach was actually up, despite the pandemic (and prior to the Suez situation). The Port of Long Beach, California, ended 2020 with a string of records despite the challenges of a year impacted by the global pandemic. The port not only recouped the declines from the beginning of the year but ended 2020 with the busiest month in its history, the most active quarter, and a record container volume for the full year. “This record demonstrates the effort of our dockworkers and the port’s determination to collaborate with our partners to overcome the devastating economic challenges presented by COVID-19 and the trade war with China,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna. The port ended 2020, with an increase of 6.3% to a record of more than 8.1 million TEUs.” TEU = Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit is an exact unit used to measure cargo capacity for container ships and container terminals. “The port exceeded the previous annual record set in 2018 by 22,292 TEUs. Imports drove the increase for the year also being up more than six percent,” concluded Colonna.

SOUND OFF! Dealernews is indeed back. Join in the conversation via e-mail: Editor@dealernews.com Check us out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ dealernews/ Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DealernewsFan/ Follow along on Dealernews.com Tune into the new YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/ channel/UCZE6q4gQ5EIz0nOX4WaXw1w

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AMA REVIVES VMD!

And Salutes On Any Sunday While the whole COVID mess kept things in limbo for a lot longer than the American Motorcyclist Association planned, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is happening returning July 23-25 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. All the favorite features — the off-road and roadracing, the swap meet, the Hall of Fame activities and more — are all being revived! But more is being added to the docket. “This year’s VMD event will have a very special theme,” explains new AMA editorial director Mitch Boehm. “Bruce Brown’s epic moto-documentary On Any Sunday made its debut 50 years ago this July, and to celebrate we’ll be featuring some of the people, motorcycles and memorabilia that helped comprise what is arguably the best motorcycle movie of all time. We might even screen the movie during the weekend!” Boehm adds specifics are still coming together, so watch the AMA website and social media for updates. “A few things to keep in mind this year: One, we’ll all have to practice some social distancing, wear masks when in a crowd, and do our best to keep everyone safe. Let’s all work together to make this year’s event a big — and safe — success!” Note: If you purchased swap-meet space for the 2020 event, which was cancelled due to COVID-19, tickets and swapmeet reservations will be honored in 2021. You will receive correspondence from the AMA before the event containing details on how these swap meet spaces will be administered, etc. Contact AMA Director of Operations Steve Austin with questions or concerns at: saustin@ama-cycle.org

NOT ON ANY SUNDAY…

But Automatic Is Now Shipping Every Saturday

Effective immediately, Automatic Distributors is open and shipping orders on Saturdays. “Our trusted logistics partners will be accepting orders into their networks which will provide earlier delivery to you and your customers,” says Jeff Graham, President Automatic Distributors. “Now more than ever consumers are not just expecting, but also demanding fast fulfillment of their needs. That is why we are so excited to share that we have extended our normal operating hours to now include Saturdays! “The past year has been a whirlwind for many of us. While the world has seen its fair share of uncertainty, our focus has remained on you, our dealers. Without our incredible dealer network, we would not be able to play our part in getting more consumers outdoors and enjoying their choice of powersports activities,” Graham notes. “As we continue to navigate these extraordinary times, our dedicated team has been tirelessly working at delivering more value to you, our dealers, and elevating your experience with us.” As Automatic transitions to the new operating hours, they expect to provide same-day shipment of all orders received by 2 PM EST. This opens the door for delivery to your door as early as Monday! Automatic is also extending its customer service hours to include Saturday. The Automatic Distributors customer care team will be operating from 9 AM to 3 PM EST effective immediately. “This opens the ability for you to now be covered in the event you need to contact our customer care team through phone, e-mail, chat, or text messaging on Saturdays, one of the busiest days of the week for many of you,” concludes Graham.

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

Dealers Can Find It, Now! In the early morning hours, a Motion Alert wakes up a FIN customer letting him know his bike is being moved. He runs outside and sees two bike thieves finish loading his GSX-R into a blue van and pull away. He then calls the FIN 24-Hour Theft Tracking Center and his local Police Department and takes off following the van. He uses his FIN GPS App to track the bike location as he eventually loses sight of the van. The bike owner then spots a police officer and gets him to help. The officer managed to pull the van over and both thieves were arrested. A total of 3 stolen bikes were recovered inside the van. Not only did FIN GPS recover his bike but the bike’s owner got the ride of his life in the back of the police cruiser as they chased the thieves down. Find It Now can’t guarantee your customers will get to star in their own episode of COPS, but they can provide peace of mind and a profit center for your store. For more details on FIN GPS theft protection and recovery program, dealers can Find It Here: www.FindItNowUSA.com

MIC BOARD OF DIRECTORS RE-ELECTED

The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) Board of Directors elected Paul Vitrano to continue serving as the association chair. Vitrano is the senior assistant general counsel for Indian Motorcycle and Polaris Inc. Also re-elected as vice chair was Chuck Boderman, VP, general administration business unit at American Honda Motor Co. and Jim Woodruff, CEO of National Powersport Auctions, as secretary/treasurer. “The MIC did a great job of leading the powersports industry through the tumultuous 2020, and now we are embarking on a new phase to build on our industry’s momentum,” Vitrano said. “The MIC Board of Directors has been an invaluable resource to me in my early tenure as president and CEO of the association,” added Erik Pritchard. “The MIC team and I are looking forward to what the industry can achieve in 2021.” Nine other directors round out the board, including: Nicole Allen with Akrapovič, Derek Brooks with Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.; Jeff Brown with EagleRider; Tim Calhoun with Quin Design Helmets; Kerry Graeber with Suzuki Motor USA, LLC; Robin Hartfiel of Dealernews; John Hinz of KTM North America, Inc.; Bill Jenkins of Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; and Rod Lopusnak of Triumph Motorcycles America.

industry.” Future plans include moving into a new, larger facility to house their rapidly growing team and securing new technology partnerships to grow and improve their offerings to dealers. Bottom line: DLP saves powersports dealers time and money, makes their sales teams more productive, and gives them peace of mind 7 days a week, according to Fischer. For more info call (833) 317-7333, email SellMoreBikes@sfe-us. com or click https://dlpspeed.com

TUCKER TAKES THE PLUNGE! BY DEALERS FOR DEALERS WITH A BETTER BOTTOM LINE TOP OF MIND

Digital Lead Performance (DLP) is a lead management system created by a veteran dealer with the express purpose of bringing more to the bottom line. “Digital Lead Performance is a project born out of my own experience as a Harley-Davidson dealer for more than 30 years,” says CEO Scott Fischer. “I’m proud to see it creating great results for other dealers across the country but even more excited about what’s to come.” Since its start in May of 2019 Fischer says DLP has helped their dealer clients sell more than 4,600 motorcycles to date, resulting in more than $81M in total revenue assisted. Dealers that partner with DLP are reported as achieving average results of 40-50% of leads converting to a set showroom appointment, 65-75% of appointments showing up, and 30-35% converting to a sale. Now just shy of its two-year anniversary, DLP is in 50 powersports dealers nationwide and employs 50 individuals. But that is just the beginning. “Our outlook for Digital Lead Performance is entirely positive,” adds COO Aaron Barney. “We’re making big investments in the future of the company that we believe are going to pay off in exciting ways, even looking to expand into other areas of the powersports

Back Onboard With PWC “Nearly 1500 of our current customers sell watercraft in their dealerships,” said Brad Turner, Tucker’s VP of Sales, marking the distributors’ return to the PWC market after a 15-year hiatus “Those dealers and their customers are demanding greater access to PWC accessories and gear, it’s only natural that Tucker will have the products they need.” The new Tucker Water catalog features a full range of watercraft products, including “wearables” like life jackets, fishing shirts and shorts, gloves, aqua socks, boots and sunglasses. Hard parts include marine-grade batteries, gaskets, filters, fuel pumps, regulators, starters, stators and bilge pumps. There is also a plethora of trailer parts and upgrades along with safety equipment, cleaners and waxes, anchors, lubricants and tools. Brand names found in the 132page catalog include Airhead, Gator Waders, West Marine, 100%, Yuasa, NGK, Motion Pro, K&N, ProTaper, Scott, Kenda, Red Line, Maxima and Motul. “This is an exciting and rapidly growing market segment,” concludes Turner. “We plan to expand this product line with more gear and more great brands. When a dealer needs products for on-road, off-road, two-wheels, four-wheels, e-bicycles, scooters or great gear for their watersports, Tucker will be there to help.”

APRIL 2021

BDR ON A ROLL!

NPA JOINS MRAA

Tucker is not the only powersports giant making a splash in the PWC pool. The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announces National Powersport Auctions (NPA) has joined as a Partner Member. NPA also partnered with MRAA to sponsor its weekly post-Dealer Week “Ask The Expert” Webinar series. “NPA is excited to partner with the MRAA in 2021,” said Damon Puckett, National Business Development Manager of RV & Marine. “We believe this is an invaluable partnership that will allow us to share with MRAA’s members the benefit of selling and sourcing used inventory through the auction. NPA offers boats and PWCs at all 10 of our nationwide locations, plus has specialists on hand at each facility to properly process each unit with our proprietary 100 pt. condition report.” NPA gives registered dealers the opportunity to buy and sell their pre-owned boat and RV units through its proven powersports auctions. “We are excited to gain NPA as a Partner Member with the MRAA,” adds Allison Gruhn, MRAA Director of Business Development. “A highly reputable name within the powersports realm, NPA’s expansion into the marine industry is both welcomed and ideally timed. Its expertise and knowledge of selling and sourcing used inventory will be a big benefit for dealers. We value its support and association with MRAA and look forward to generating resources for our members.”

“The pressure on public lands during the pandemic has been enormous due to people finding solace outdoors,” says Yamaha Motorsports marketing manager Steve Nessl. “Their adventures gave off-road enthusiasts a much-needed breather from the stress we’ve all experienced over the past year.” To offset this pressure, Yamaha’s Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI) granted an additional $90K in Q4. In total, Yamaha granted more than $350,000 in 2020 while supplying essential support to public lands providing vital access to outdoor recreation across the country. “Public land belongs to everyone and we all have a responsibility to take care of it,” adds Nessl. “Yamaha is proud to continue supporting our riders’ favorite outdoor activities, including OHV riding, hunting, camping and fishing, through the Outdoor Access Initiative.” The fourth quarter 2020 Yamaha OAI grants totaling more than $90,000 were awarded to the following organizations: Blue Ribbon Coalition – Pocatello, ID East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV Club – Medway, Maine Idaho Single Track Alliance – Idaho Falls, ID Reno Area Dirtriders – Reno, NV Swampsiders Snowmobile Club – Bigfork, MN “The need for funding and leadership for public lands increased exponentially in 2020 with more people engaging in outdoor recreation at the same time resources were being restricted. It was a relief to know we could reach out to Yamaha to help,” explains Ben Burr from the Blue Ribbon Coalition, which received $11,740 to develop a trail guide for Utah’s San Rafael Desert area to help visitors explore safely and responsibly. “The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is a trusted resource for the outdoor recreation community with a history of putting the funds where they are needed to make big improvements on the ground.” “The 2020 fourth quarter grant projects spanned the spectrum of powersports, with funds going to groups from all categories of Yamaha’s off-highway vehicles: Motorcycles, ATVs, Side-bySides and snowmobiles,” Nessl continues. “We prioritize those projects meeting the needs of diverse OHV riders to support their local riding communities.” For more than 12 years, Yamaha has issued quarterly grants to non-profit organizations supporting the needs of riding groups, outdoor enthusiasts, land stewardship organizations, and public land managers to improve access to public land for outdoor recreation. Since inception, Yamaha contributed over $4.5 million in aid to more than 380 projects across the nation. The deadline for submission to the second quarter 2021 funding cycle for the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is June 30, 2021, and applications must be postmarked by then. Submission guidelines and applications are available at: www.YamahaOAI.com

MISSION FOOD SPONSORS KING OF THE BAGGERS

No, this is not some sort of competition for grocery store clerks. The world’s leading brand of tortillas has stepped up with naming rights for MotoAmerica’s three round King Of The Baggers racing series. The opening round of the Mission King of the Baggers Series will kick off at the 2021 MotoAmerica season opener at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, April 30-May 2. Round two will take place at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, June 11-13, with the series finale set for WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, July 9-11.

“We are very excited to partner with MotoAmerica for 2021 and become the official entitlement sponsor of the King of the Baggers class under the name ‘Mission King of the Baggers,’” notes Juan Gonzalez, President and CEO of Mission Foods. “As a leading global food brand, it is a great opportunity to not only interact with our consumers in a fun and exciting environment but also support the motorcycle sport community. I strongly believe that our partnership will create unforgettable moments for all race fans.” In addition to King Of The Baggers, Mission is sponsoring everything from AFT to NHRA drag racer Angelle Sampey this season. The brand has also shown its commitment to motorsports with the release of its new “Racing Style” chips to be sampled to fans at all MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers events. “Mission Foods is a well-known brand in homes across the U.S. and a supporter of various types of racing,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “We are really happy to have them on board to help further the growth of the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers Series. It’s a great fit as camping, tailgating and eating are key activities for road racing fans. This season will feature the first three-round championship for King of the Baggers and it’s awesome that Mission will be the title sponsor.” Clean up on aisle 3!

Brought To You By MotorcycleIndustryJobs.com

Norton joins Triumph? No, this is not a reference to the old NVT (Norton Villers Triumph) days — USMC veteran Jack Norton is the new Marketing Communications Manager for Triumph Motorcycles America. Norton is an experienced marketing professional with an extensive background overseeing integrated marketing campaigns in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. During his 13+ years in the Marines he developed communications plans for recruiting campaigns, including one which debuted during the 2018 Super Bowl. He has also previously served at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation as the Communications Director, and most recently oversaw public relations and media outreach for the largest independent relocation firm in North America. “Jack will bring his valuable professional skills to this newly created position, where he will oversee the owned and paid media communications channels for Triumph Motorcycles America,” explains Triumph top kick Rod Lopusnak. “Associated responsibilities will be management of the web, social, CRM, and advertising strategies.” Jack recently relocated from Virginia to his home state of Georgia to join the Triumph Motorcycles America team in Atlanta.

“Getting Greg Blackwell on the team is another giant leap forward for HISUN,” says Jason Walling, National Sales Manager of HISUN Motors Corp., USA. “His market knowledge and professional relationships will help us expedite our efforts to continue developing our dealer network and provide a level of service to our customers that is second to none. We anticipate many great things from Greg and his future with HISUN.” Blackwell brings more than 30 years of sales and sales management experience to the position, having held executive roles at Metzeler/ Pirelli, LeMans Corporation, KTM North America, MTA and Tucker Powersports. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Jason Walling, JJ Pecsok and Jamie Cheek in the past and I’m very impressed with what they are accomplishing together with the HISUN team,” says Blackwell. “HISUN is definitely on the move and I want to work with the team to develop and grow the Southwest market.” In his dealer development role, Blackwell will work closely with Business Development Manager, Tyler Houghton.

Also taking on a new gig is former ThunderPress Managing Editor Joy Burgess joins new Editorial Director Mitch Boehm on the AMA magazine team (announced last month). “I’m lucky enough to have found ‘family’ in the motorcycle community, and I’ve

never forgotten how much this community has given to me,” Burgess said. “It’s always my goal to give back to the motorcycle industry, and I’m excited and humbled to have the chance to work with the AMA doing just that, working with Mitch and this amazing team to both promote and protect motorcycling through storytelling.” Burgess has more than 16 years of editorial and marketing experience. Most recently she served as the managing editor of ThunderPress and previously was the editor of Woman Rider. Burgess has spent much of her time in the industry focusing on women who ride two wheels (including a groundbreaking “Women in Motorcycling” issue for Thunder Press), telling their stories and helping other women find a community in motorcycling. Burgess lives with her son near Orlando, Florida.

Cool gig becomes even better: Chris Sebas, most recently Powersports Sales & Marketing Manager with Evans Cooling Systems, Inc is now a Field Service Representative at KTM Group North America, Inc. A onetime MTA Distributing rep, Sebas was a Matco Tools distributor before joining Evans in 2017. “Sad day but also really excited for my new adventures to come,” said Sebas. “Evans has been my family for the last 4 years and it’s been an incredible ride. I can’t thank Evans enough for the opportunity and would also like to thank all the dealers, distributors, racers, series, enthusiasts or just anyone I’ve dealt with in believing in me and the product. Really excited to watch the brand to continue to be successful in its growth.” Continued on page 20

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dealers in the Northern California/ Southern Oregon area. Donaldson’s background includes Supermoto racing on the amateur level and he currently owns a Yamaha WR250R and a YZ426. In his free time, Keith is a self-taught musician. Time to strike up the band.

Extend a little Southern Hospitality to Kyle Kelly, the newest Parts Unlimited sales rep for the Southeast region covering dealers in the North Georgia area. Kelly’s history features 35 years of motocross racing – including 12 years professionally in MX and Supercross. More important to the position with Parts, Kelly was the owner/operator of a powersports dealership for more than 20 years. Outside of work, he enjoys riding offroad and coaching baseball. Play ball!

Also joining the expanded roster for Parts Unlimited is Keith Donaldson as the newest sales rep for the Northwest region covering

Hail to the Chief… er, Chair. Kawasaki’s Croft Long is the new chair of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Robert Heilbron of American Honda was elected vice chair, and Jason Tolleson of HarleyDavidson Motor Company was elected secretary/treasurer. Trustee and former chair Joe Dagley has been replaced by Matt Potter as Yamaha’s trustee. “My expectation for MSF is to grow and share the excitement and joy of motorcycling by instilling confidence and competence in new riders, and to motivate experienced riders to brush up on skills through advanced rider training,” said Long. “I pledge to place as our number one priority the wants and needs of motorcyclists seeking state-of-the-art MSF rider training – developed by the professional MSF team in close partnership with research experts, supported by training centers and, most importantly, delivered by enthusiastic Rider Coaches every day on ranges across the U.S.”

Most recently with the AIMExpo team, COVID closures meant it was time to shift gears for John Simanovich. In an effort to keep moto thriving for the next generation despite the pandemic, he created Moto 4 Kids Racing, Inc. starting with a cadre of legendary SoCal tracks. “Whether you ride a 50110cc, 65cc or 85cc we have a class for you,” he explains. Moto 4 Kids celebrates both the future and former stars of our sport.” Central to Simanovich’s concept is working with dealers to foster the relationship and inspire the next generation. “The motorcycle dealership has always been about the experience, especially as a young rider/racer,” he says. “The cherished moments at the counter looking at the newest sticker or trying to get my hands on a pack of Hi-Flyer Motocross Trading Cards always stands out. That is why we partnered with a dealer from the beginning. During my time with TransWorld Motocross and through the many events we operated, the one SoCal dealer that supported those efforts was always Temecula Motorsports (TMS). I knew it was only fitting to partner with a great dealership like TMS. Immediately Codi Greene the Marketing Director for TMS, Fun Bike Center and East Bay Motorsports understood my vision to support our future stars, but also how important it is for the kids to have that same experience at the dealer level… It’s something you just can’t replace!” After proof of concept this season, Simanovich hopes to expand the program. More tracks, more dealer involvement and even beyond SoCal. Get more details at: https://moto4kids.racing/

CE LEB R AT ING 4 0 Y E A R S OF POWER BIKEMASTER.COM

REVIVAL

AMA Hall Of Famer Mary McGee Is Revved Up

hen the American Motorcyclist Association needed someone to help revive the Hall Of Fame and drive donations, they turned to one of their own — Mary McGee. Inducted into the Hall Of Fame in 2018, Mary is an icon, inspiration and the best brand ambassador motorcycling has ever had. “Mary is one of the most pioneering motorcyclists in history,” AMA noted. “She not only broke barriers for women riders, but all riders. Her accomplishments transcend gender and have impacted the sport in innumerable ways.” Despite the legendary Rolf Tibblin telling her brakes are the most important part of racing, Mary is showing no signs of slowing down any time soon! Eric Anderson interviewed this motorcycling legend about the challenges of being a woman in the powersports world and a pioneer advocate for our entire industry. The stories are amazing, including how she was never sponsored by a dealer, did the Baja 500 solo and was convinced by friend and fellow racer Steve McQueen to start riding dirtbikes in the desert... You’ve been instrumental in breaking down gender barriers everywhere inside what was and still remains to this day of a male-dominated sport and industry. One thing we’ve never heard from you is what your dealership experience has been in the 1960s, 70s and even the 1980s… How challenging was it for serious women riders at the point of purchase in those days?

Well, first of all, you mentioned dealership, right? I did work for a dealership back them. I worked for Paul Collins at Continental Imports. He sold Hondas, Triumphs and Bultacos. Yes, it was great fun. I made commissions on those sales but it was a struggle with the two male salespeople. Paul said to just ignore them and I was selling motorcycles like crazy. Was it hard in the 1960’s? Did things get better? They eventually got better. When I started roadracing in 1960, they were slightly older guys. And they were pretty much accepting. I did have to try out at Willow Springs, they wouldn’t let me race, but a guy could just show up with his leathers, a helmet and a bike and race. After my try out at Willow Springs, that was no problem. They said, “You’re good. You can race the next race.” Now when I started motocross it was different. First of all, it was all desert guys at the first motocross — it started in the first week of December 1965, at Castaic Junction. When the kids came into motocross, they didn’t know what to do with me because I wasn’t their mother. I wasn’t their sister. And I was older… But you were a competitor. Mostly they were faster. But yeah, I was a competitor. I was there and I was definitely a participant. Back to the dealership for a second. Was it interesting being the only woman working at that dealership? Did you receive respect from the men when you outsold them? I kind of outsold them. They got a little upset because guys would come in and ask for me and they wanted to buy a motorcycle. The guys did complain to Paul Collins and he just said ‘deal with it.’ What was your advantage in selling? Riding! I rode a motorcycle. Oh, you know what else I did? Paul Collins’ shop was on Artesia Boulevard. And it was an angle. So I had a skateboard and I would ride down Artesia Blvd. on it. Everybody just laughed and thought it was funny… but they followed me to the dealership. You’re a daredevil? No, no, but it was fun. The dealership wasn’t busy all the time. Right? You cleaned the bikes, you straightened up the brochures — the guys never did any of that — so if there was nobody there, you had to do something. I rode my skateboard. There were a couple of guys that were very, very nice in the beginning. One was Mark Blackwell, his father and his younger brother, Greg, and John DeSoto, he’s such a great guy, and Jim Wilson. But it took a while for guys to get used to having a female out there at the track or in the shop. Were men who worked inside dealerships back then surprised at what motorcycle parts and accessories you were buying in the shop? In 1960 my husband and I went to see Joe Kubicek who’s from Czechoslovakia and had opened a tiny little CZ dealership in Redondo Beach looking to buy a 2-stroke. I had been riding

that CL 72 250 Honda four-stroke. And then the first two motocross races I raced my husband’s 500cc Triumph. And then in the summertime we went trail riding with a friend down to a place called Bixby Slough which was in the Long Beach area. And a friend loaned me a Greeves Challenger. Wow! That was an awesome 2-stroke and loud… with a leading link front end… It did have the leading link front end and I don’t know about the noise. But it was light compared to that CL72 Honda or the 500cc Triumph! I thought, this is great. A two-stroke is what I want so we went to Kubicek and he had a 360 and a 250 CZ. We bought the 250, but he kept the parts box. You were supposed to get this big wooden crate full of spares, but Joe kept that. Did any dealers ever sponsor you as a competitive rider? I never had a sponsor, ever. Nobody ever wanted to sponsor me. And of course, I never asked for anything. Everything I had, I bought. The only thing I ever got for free was from Rolf Tibblin — this jacket. And another jacket from Team Honda and the International Training Center. But that’s sitting in the AMA Hall of Fame right now. International Training Center… That was Rolf Tibblin’s and Mark Blackwell’s riding school. Remember when they used to suggest that you drink coffee before you go out and try and get the holeshot because your reaction time is a little better after a cup of coffee or two? I was at Rolf’s training sessions before Mark came on. And I even helped Rolf at a couple of his schools, one in Boise and one in Aspen, Colorado. When I went to his school it was not at Carlsbad, yet but it was in San Diego. One of the things I remember him being so adamant about was braking. And when I teach any school that’s one of the massive first things I talk about is to brake using both brakes! It’s not just about power. It’s about slowing down, too. Know how to slow down so you can make that turn. Then you got to get back on the gas! Take a breath and full throttle. Since being inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame, how has your life changed? Any difference? Or did you simply receive the recognition you deserved?

Well, I don’t know that I deserved it. But it was wonderful. What a great night. So awesome. So much fun. So exciting. And I loved every second of it… I forgot to wear my ring but I usually do. You got to stand on stage. Did Perry King make the introductions? Who is the master of ceremonies? Oh, yeah, it was Perry King and then we had a great talk over at the Museum the next day, because he’s quite the car guy, too. We got to talk about “S” turns at Riverside because I started racing cars at the Riverside track when it was first active. I started racing in 1957. In Phoenix, the first car belonged to George Rice. He asked me if I wanted to race a Mercedes 300 SL Gull Wing. Wow, those are collectibles now, aren’t they? Oh, everything I raced is worth millions now. None of them were ever mine, though. Too bad. Now, women are 19% to 20% of motorcycle owners — not riders or pillion passengers — but owners. Is there more room to grow that segment of women riders. How do we do that? I think so. When a woman walks into your shop, pay attention to her. And don’t just try to talk her into the biggest fastest bike there. Talk about motorcycling. Make sure that she gets to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation riding school. I think those are great. If you had one recommendation to the motorcycle dealers of America, either in general or about female customers, what would it be? Well, when women come in the door, be friendly. Don’t be aggressive, just be attentive. I think they have to be attentive for a moment and really listen to her, then gently make suggestions. And the suggestion should not be a bigger bike! Are there still some adventures to be had or new barriers to be broken? Continued on page 24

APRIL 2021

Continued from page 25

I don’t know about breaking new barriers. I’m 84 years old now and due to arthritis, I can no longer ride a motorcycle which I’m heartbroken about. But I have a little dog I go hiking with. And that’s about how my life now is going with hiking. Have you ever thought of going to four wheels you know with age comes a cage. I did four wheels already. Coming full circle back to Paul Collins, he called me up and said, ‘Mary, you want to do the first Mexican 1000 in a Datsun? He had a Datsun 510… not a rally car, just a regular sedan you could buy from a dealership. They put a roll bar in it and put on different shocks and tires. And we pre-ran in a Toyota Land Cruiser. The pre-run was more exciting than the race. The road was completely unknown. It was a damned exciting pre-run, I can tell you that… excuse my French. The race didn’t go so well… we only made it as far as El Arco, the halfway point. We chugged into El Arco and it was bitter cold… tires were burning and that’s how you got warm was walking around the burning tires. It smells bad but who cares when you are freezing? The ground was absolutely frozen. I just kept turning around that fire until I was so tired I was gonna fall in it. I looked around at everybody on the cardboard. And what did I see? Two motorcycle guys laying back to back. I made myself nice and warm. I walked over there and slithered right between them. They never knew I was there until the morning. And then this loud voice woke everybody up shouting, “I slept with Mary McGee!”

What was your most memorable race or event? They’re all memorable. They’re all exciting. I mean, I was a blessed and fortunate woman with all the racing I got to do for all these years. I can’t say one over the other because they’re all exciting. Some were more difficult. The Baja races were the most difficult thing I’ve ever done. Yet you finished the Baja 500 solo. So you’re an iron woman. It was the 1975 Baja 500 and I’m the first person to ride that solo. It was hot and it was rough, too. It was Rolf Tibblin’s fault, he told me I had to do that. He called me up and said you’re gonna do the 500 solo. I said I can’t do that. He said, “yeah, I’m sure you can do this.” What motorcycle was that? A 250 Husqvarna. My favorite bike of all was that 250 Husky! Anything else you’d like to say in conclusion? Get a motorcycle, and then ride! Go vintage racing — it is awesome and so much fun. If you can get to a vintage race, do it! Everybody is wonderful and helpful. And it’s so much fun. I think that all of the people that have a motorcycle should keep on riding. They should always take a breath, and then twist the throttle! Finally, how about a message to women out there who are thinking about riding a motorcycle? The best thing a woman can do is get a used 125 dirtbike and go trail riding. It is the most fun you can possibly have. I think you should talk to your friends who are riding… and don’t let anybody talk you into a bike that’s too big for you. Start out with a small used dirt bike. There’s always people who are going to take you out to the dirt to ride the trail ride, which is great fun. I go out to the dirt and learn how to spin that rear wheel out and dump that front end. And how to use that front brake… Yeah. All the brakes. All the brakes.

MARY McGEE AMA AMBASSADOR

ary McGee, who learned to ride a motorcycle on a 200cc Triumph Tiger Cub in 1957, was one of the first women motocrossers and road racers in the United States. She started her off-road career by riding a 1962 250cc Honda Scrambler in an AMA District 37 enduro. She began riding Baja events in 1967 and, in 1975, rode solo in the Baja 500. Also in the 1970s she competed with three men on a team in a 24-hour road race aboard a 650cc Suzuki. Today, Mary is asking for everyone who loves riding to join her in supporting the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises money for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. Join with Mary today and help tell the stories of amazing American motorcyclists! For her contributions to motorcycling, McGee has been inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. She supports the Hall of Fame and would like you to join her. “Today, our sport is more inclusive than ever, and I’m honored that I was able to play a part in that progress,” she says in a letter to AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame supporters.

“I’m confident that motorcycle racing will continue to grow and welcome racers from all backgrounds. “One way we can help that growth is by celebrating our heritage,” she says. “We do that by honoring the great men and women in the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. Their stories of perseverance, fortitude, conquest, talent, and ingenuity inspire new motorcyclists to test limits, break barriers and blaze new trails. “So I’m asking you today: Please consider making a taxdeductible financial contribution to the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, the 501(c)(3) that raises money to support the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame,” she says. “Your donation is not just an investment in the past. It’s an investment in the future of motorcycling in America.” The Hall of Fame works to preserve motorcycling’s history, educate the public and honor the great men and women of motorcycling through generous tax-deductible gifts from individual motorcyclists. It’s easy to support the mission. Just go to: https://americanmotorcyclist.com/join-mary-mcgeesupport-the-hall-of-fame/

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APRIL 2021

I’M NOT MARY McGEE

Jamie Pamintuan, Del Amo Motorsports By Rick Doughty

oving to America, racing motocross and being a pioneer in the powersports industry is part of the fabric that makes up Jamie Pamintuan’s life. Now a senior service writer for the largest family of dealerships in Southern California, she has overcome bullying, discrimination and RWA “Racing While Asian” before hate crimes were in the headlines, just a fact of life. While there were plenty of tears, Jamie kept her eye on the prize. World Minis, the legendary Mammoth Motocross and qualifying for the Women’s Motocross des Nations team were among the highlights that kept her coming back. After career ending injuries caused her to get into the business side, she applied herself to working in a dealership. However, something was missing and she recently got back into racing the American Retrocross series, just for fun. “My whole family is involved, so it put the fun back in racing for me.” However she doesn’t see herself as a pioneer: “I have met Mary McGee and have a lot of respect for her and all she has done. I am not Mary McGee! She is a real pioneer. All the women like me who ride and race today are following the trail she blazed. As for overcoming similar obstacles, well yes and no. There is nothing we face today that compares to what Mary was up against, but motorcycle racing is still a predominantly male sport and women are the exceptions. When you are the exception you are different. When you are different you are going to be perceived and in some cases treated differently. Gender aside, most people don’t ride or race motorcycles, so that in and of itself makes us all different from the norm.” So you are NOT Mary McGee, but you are a pioneer and role model. Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you born? Angeles City, Philippines How old are you? 42

You currently work at Del Amo Motorsports in Long Beach, CA. Yes I do. I have been there a long time. What is your position? I am the Senior Service Writer. Are you perceived differently than your male counterparts? Sometimes to most of the time but it doesn’t bother me. Sometimes a person will come in and want to talk to a guy, so I will hand them off to another employee. Then when they ask a question that the other employee can’t answer, they come ask me. Makes me laugh inside. When did you start riding and why? I was 11. After we moved from the Philippines to Long Beach, my Dad started racing at Ascot and it became a family thing. I saw kids racing, mostly boys, and I wanted to do it. Eventually my parents bought me a used YZ80 from the PennySaver, but my Dad wouldn’t let me ride it. Instead, he put it on a bike stand and let me sit on it. I would practice using the clutch and shifting. That just made me more interested. Soon I started asking questions about starting it, braking and how things worked. It was torture not to ride, but the garage practice paid off. One day I went out to the garage and took the bike off the stand and started it. I did all the things that I had been practicing and before I knew it, I was riding down the driveway and headed for the street. Luckily no cars were coming and I successfully turned right on to the road. I even executed a U-turn without crashing! However, on the way back to the house I veered into a metal fence and in the process ended up with some scars on my leg to mark my first ride. Years later, my folks said they watched me from the living room window to see how I was going to do. They could have run out

and stopped me but they didn’t, which was a precursor of how they would allow me to pursue my desire to ride. Oddly enough, they were more strict with my younger brothers than they were with me. When did you start racing and why? I think I have always been competitive in whatever I’ve done, whether it was school, BMX or motorcycles. I have that inner drive to do better tomorrow than I did today. It is just the way I am wired. I first attempted to race when I was 11 years and 11 months old. The problem was when I got to sign up, I was informed that the rules required competitors to be at least 12. I pleaded my case that I was less than a month away from being 12 but it was to no avail, they said no. I was broken hearted and in tears. Actually, tears were a big part of my early days of racing. When I was officially 12, I went back to the track and signed up to race. That was probably the best part of the day because I got lapped in both motos multiple times. That is where the tears came in again. I thought about quitting but I loved riding and racing too much to give it up. I was already addicted. Were there many opportunities for female racers then?

How many years did you race the Nationals? We chased the dream for four years. Unfortunately, I broke my back three times (T4, T5 and S1), collarbone and other less severe injuries. Motocross can be unforgiving on the body. The S1 break left me paralyzed for some time and lead to my decision to step away from racing. I have only recently gone back to racing for fun with the American Retrocross series. My whole family is involved so it put the fun back in racing for me. What is your take on how the powersports industry in general appeals to or dismisses females? Most certainly the marketing has been biased towards the male gender. I understand that, but it is changing slowly. What suggestions would you make to manufacturers and aftermarket companies to better address the female interests and needs?

Not when I first started. I just raced against the boys. How were you received when you had to race in the same class with the guys?

Well, more gear companies are making women’s apparel that is tailored to a women’s body so that helps. But there is a lot more that could be done with respect to female rider training, bike design and an overall attitude shift towards women being participants in riding and racing. You can see the car companies changing their strategies when it comes to women as drivers and decision makers, so it is only natural that will occur in powersports. What would you like to say to the other women that are reading this?

Not well to be honest. I got slammed into a lot. I did not get the same level of respect as the other boys. It seemed that they (the slammers) resented a girl invading their sport so they were going to make it as rough on me as they could. Plus, I was guilty of RWA, “Racing While Asian”, so it was a double whammy. They would tell me to go back to my own country and stupid stuff like that. More tears… Did that change as you started to beat them?

Follow your passion. If motorsports appeals to you, go for it! Don’t get hung up on it being a “guy’s sport” or what someone else might think. The bike doesn’t know or care what gender you are. The thrill that motorcycles can give you is unlike anything else. Add to that the sense of accomplishment you get from becoming a better rider or racer and it is easy to get hooked like I did. Got anything to say to the male readers?

To be honest, I stopped listening to them. Some of the parents had a problem with me racing like I had been raced, but I told them I was simply riding like the sons do. For the most part I kept to myself and let my riding do the talking. Is there any one race or incident that you had that exemplified that attitude?

If you see a female riding or racing be welcoming and encouraging. Help her feel like she has as much a right to be part of the sport as you do… Then offer to wash her bike when she’s done!

Not really, it was so common that I just got used to it. The World Minis in Las Vegas were pretty intense. You finally made it up to the Pro level in what year? I think it was ’91 or ’92. I got a chance to race Mammoth on a 125 and ended up beating Tami Rice. Afterwards she asked me if I would be interested in going to Italy to ride on the Women’s Motocross des Nations team. The only problem was I was not yet a Pro. My parents finally agreed to let me get my professional license and be a part of the team. I broke my collarbone prior in the race but still finished 12th overall and got a trophy for being the youngest competitor. It was an amazing experience to get to go to another country and race. Did you race in a national series? Yes I did. My parents drove me all over the country chasing the National series here in the US.

APRIL 2021

Dealernews Research By Dr. Paul Leinberger

REVIVAL OF THE ROARING TWENTIES

Have We Hit An Inflection Point?

ederal Reserve Chair Jerome H. Powell said recently (“60 Minutes” broadcast interview, April 11, 2021) that the U.S. economy is “at an inflection point” and poised for an extended period of strong growth and hiring. The Dow Jones industrial average is at record highs, 916,000 jobs were added to the economy in March, and unemployment edged down to 6% from 6.2% in February. “This growth that we’re expecting in the second half of the year is going to be very strong. And job creation, I would expect to be very strong,” said Powell. On the other hand, consumers remain cautious. A majority of Americans expect that it will be at least a year before life returns to the way it was pre-COVID (Pew Research, conducted March 1-7, 2021). Nearly six-in-ten (57%) believe it will be a year or more before things get back to “normal” including 14% who expect that it will take more than two years. Consumers are also pessimistic about job prospects. Almost eight-in-ten say they expect it will take one to

two years (46%) or more than two years (35%) for jobs to return to pre-pandemic levels. Only 19% believe the job situation will recover in less than a year. Since consumer spending represents over two-thirds of the nation’s economy, consumer attitudes and behavior will be critical to the nation’s recovery. What do you think? Are we headed into a boom or will the recovery be slow? Either way, what does it mean for the future of your dealership? If you ask venture capitalists – who make their money by betting on the future – they will tell you that the future looks bright. For example, the highly successful venture firm Sequoia told its clients (on March 18, 2021): “The U.S. is poised for stronger economic growth in the second half of 2021 than we’ve seen in decades (bold and italics not in original). Now is the time to start stepping on the gas. COVID accelerated the future: Now seize it.” Pent-up demand is driving much of the optimism. Many VC firms expect consumer spending to explode in the coming months. As consumers emerge from their cocoons, VC firms expect consumers to “let loose this summer.” Many VCs believe we are about to experience the next “Roaring Twenties.” Others in the financial community share their enthusiasm. The Wall Street Journal foresees the best era for manufacturing since the 1990s, the Financial Times projects “a once-in-a-century boom,” and even the staid Economist sees “a new period of economic dynamism.” Happy days are here again… Or are they? In mid-January, the World Bank released a forecast suggesting that the 2020s might end up being a “lost decade,” with annual growth rates averaging just 1.9%. “If history is any guide,” the report said, “unless there are substantial and effective reforms, the global economy is heading for a decade of disappointing growth outcomes.” Rising inequality (according to Fed data, the top 1% holds 15 times as much wealth as the bottom half combined and the gap continues to grow), a growing rural-urban divide, seemingly endless political gridlock, and predictions of a financial bubble forming, all point to potential trouble ahead. None of us can foresee the future. However, we can be prepared. Previous moments like this have taught us one important lesson: nobody ever regrets making fast and decisive adjustments to changing circumstances. Darwin was correct: those who survive “are not the strongest or most intelligent, but the most adaptable to change.” In the months ahead, the economy will begin to give us signs of where it is headed. Employment numbers will go up – or down. COVID numbers will continue to fall – or not. Consumer optimism will grow – or decline. Taken together, they will give us a clear picture of whether or

not we have reached an inflection point. Either way, what is most important is to focus on the numbers that reflect on how your core business is doing (in the context of the larger changes taking place in the economy) and then act decisively as circumstances change. If you are doing better than you did during the same period in 2020, ask yourself why. It’s important to understand the “why” because 2021 is NOT like 2020 and you can’t keep doing what you did in 2020 and expect similar results. Conversely, if you are not doing better than you did during the same period in 2020, it is critically important that you understand what has changed. Remember that in downturns, revenue and cash levels always fall faster than expenses. If the economy rebounds sharply – some economists are predicting a “J”-shaped rebound (where the bottom loop

of the “J” represents where we are now and the vertical line of the “J” reflects what will happen next – a dramatic expansion of the economy) – there is a danger that consumer spending might shift away from powersports and towards categories where pent-up demand is the strongest – like travel, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, live entertainment, fashion and selected retail. I am not predicting such a scenario, but if the data suggests a shift in that direction, you need to be ready to take decisive action. Alternatively, if the economy expands dramatically and powersports sales follow suit, you need to be sure that the supply chain issues that developed in 2020 will never happen again. Whatever the future brings, the message remains the same: change brings opportunity if you are ready to act decisively when circumstances change.

A perennial keynote speaker for the Motorcycle Industry Council's annual Communications Symposium, Dr. Paul Leinberger has become the powersports industry's de facto futurist/strategist. Dr. Leinberger is an expert in market/brand strategy and research with more than two decades of social trend forecasting, market strategy and strategic planning. Prior to joining TTD, he was Senior VP of GfK NOP, where he ran the company’s flagship consumer trend services, Roper Reports, as well as the company’s groundbreaking Global Visual Database. His client list reads like a Who’s Who of corporate America: Hewlett-Packard, Apple, Disney, Nordstrom, Microsoft, Levi Strauss, E.& J. Gallo Winery and Toyota, among many others. Prior to his global responsibilities at GfK NOP, Dr. Leinberger was the Corporate Manager in the Product Planning and Market Strategy department at Nissan North America. Dr. Leinberger holds a Ph.D. in organizational and social psychology and a Masters of Urban Planning (Highest Honors). He lives in Irvine, California, and his work can be seen at www.dennyleinbergerstrategy.com APRIL 2021 29

Dealernews Research By Lenny Sims

BY THE BOOK

J.D. Power Valuation Guide

alues continue to crush the previous two years. Interest in all segments of the powersports industry remains hot as new enthusiasts continue to enter the market and existing riders look for new bikes and side-by-sides. A lack of new unit inventory has caused a corresponding spike in look-up activity and Q4 2020/preliminary Q1 2021 lookups are higher than they have ever been! The numbers don’t lie! In fact, powersport vehicle values across the board had a strong year. In the 2020 Year-End Review Powersports Market Insights, analysts from J.D. Power Specialty Valuation Services noted that used powersports vehicle prices began increasing in the second quarter of 2020 as the pandemic shifted consumer focus to more outdoor recreational activities. Similarly, dealers said they experienced near-record sales despite having very little inventory. Lack of new units in the motorcycle segment caused cruiser values to increase steeply, and they are now running 2.2% ahead of last year’s 5.2% increase — a combined 7.4%

increase in the middle of the Pandemic is a pretty serious bump! And the surge is just beginning heading into the warmer summer months. Sportbikes saw an even greater uptick, finishing the year 4.8% over 2019 and 8.3% more than 2018. This bodes well for a strong summer selling season as vaccines increase and the world opens up. Inventory issues are the real limitation here, not pent up demand. Of course dirtbikes and side-by-sides continue to explode. UTVs stayed strong in the most recent period. The utility segment values came in a whopping 8.7% higher than the same period of 2019. The sport segment machines brought in 6.5% more money year-over-year in 2020, based on a strong second half of the year. Bottom line: The powersport industry continues to benefit from customers shifting their discretionary income from vacations to other forms of entertainment. Getting out on the trails and roads solo or with a few other folks will continue to be a low-risk, high-fun adventure as the world gradually emerges from its COVID cocoon.

J.D. Power Specialty Valuation Services (formerly NADAguides) is a leading provider of specialty vehicle valuation products and services to businesses. The team collects and analyzes tens of thousands of wholesale and retail transactions per month, and delivers a range of guidebooks, web service data, analysis and digital data solutions. J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world’s leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies.

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Dealernews Research By Don Musick

X MARKS THE SPOT! A HELICOPTER ON MARS? 184.67 million miles away in the 45 km-wide Jezero Crater, sits a tiny 1.8 kg (~4 lbs.) package of techno wizardry named Ingenuity. Designed to fly autonomously in the thin Martian atmosphere, Ingenuity relies on sophisticated surface recognition algorithms to navigate around its flight path (Fig 1). Ingenuity analyzes real-time imagery of the Martian surface to dynamically map out its environment. The data collected is used in subsequent flights to identify areas for further exploration as while optimizing flight times and landing security. So basically, Ingenuity is mapping out its territory (trade area) in order to discover where opportunities (customers) lie. Sound familiar?

BACK TO EARTH The good news is that you don’t need an $85 million drone to map out your territory! In our last “Finding Waldo” article we explored ESRI’s “Tapestry” data product with ArcGIS Online to examine the characteristics of its 67 neighborhood “LifeMode” and “Urbanization” categories (see this link). Since the free trial period of 21 days has likely expired since then, you can re-up for another trial on the following link (ArcGIS Online trial). This go-round we’re not interested in socio-demographic characteristics, but instead let’s take a peek under the hood at 1) Retail Goods Spending and 2) Spending Behaviors. In Fig 2 below, we’ve once again arranged a tandem view of Google My Maps and ArcGIS Online. My Maps includes layers for customer locations and drive-time contours while ArcGIS has a single layer named “2020 USA Retail Goods Spending”.

As a reminder, you can find this layer in ArcGIS Online by clicking on the “Add” icon (red circle), selecting “Browse Living Atlas Layers “then searching for “2020 USA Retail Goods Spending”. Click on the layer to add it to the map. This layer depicts the average amount spent per household on retail goods at the Census Block Group level. Clicking on a Block Group opens a pop-up that compares retail spending vs the national average. The inset bar graph compares 2020 annual budget expenditures (left) and retail goods spending (right). Seeing any correlations between customer distribution and retail spending? Interesting for sure, but we want more (more is better than less)! So the “Living Atlas” is much more than a one-trick pony. As mentioned in the last “Finding Waldo” article, it contains literally thousands of layers to choose from around the world. This time we’ll search for a layer named “2019 Esri Spending Behaviors”. Continued on page 34

APRIL 2021

Continued from page 33

The format for this layer is a little different from what we’ve seen so far (Fig 3.). First off, the geography in this layer is only available down to the Census Tract level rather than Census Block Group. Second, the map symbols are represented by both size and shading. The size of the circle is proportional to the number of households while the color intensity is a measure of the Retail Goods Index. Taken together, you can easily see both consumer volume and retail clout in a single layer. But we still want more!

From his first motorcycles (a Honda S65 and an S90) when he was 16 to 50 years later, Don Musick has never stopped twisting the throttle. Although his accomplishments in the research arena have surpassed his MX career Don has over 25 years experience with major manufacturers in the Powersports and Automotive industries specializing in e-business solutions for retail distribution networks. His solution portfolio includes the development and implementation of manufacturer/dealer extranets, consumer-direct commerce portals, manufacturer/dealer e-channel integrations as well as development of web-based sales force automation tools. For most of his career, Don has been fascinated (his wife would say obsessed) with geographic market analytics, dealer location planning and sales territory optimization. He founded Genesys Technology Solutions (GenesysTech) http://www.genesystech.com/ to develop new tools and market intelligence products to help manufacturers understand the competitive landscape of their industries, recognize opportunities and grow their businesses. A Spartan to the core, Don earned a B.S. in Physiology and PhD in Biochemistry from Michigan State University. Contact: dmusick@genesystech.com

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TOP TRIUMPH DEALERS

2020 Award-Winning Dealers

he worst of times brings out the best of people, particularly in the powersports market. A global pandemic, manufacturing suspended prior to the key selling season and shipping choked to a trickle, challenged all the OEMs. However, it was the lockdown of the North American marketplace and learning how to operate in an entirely new environment where dealers rose to the challenge and created contactless sales, concierge service appointments and literally kept the wheels rolling during these COVID-crazy times, says Rod Lopusnak, General Manager, Triumph Motorcycles America. “Our 2020 awards really mean something special. “On behalf of everyone at Triumph Motorcycles America, it is our honor to recognize our 2020 national award-winning dealers,” announced Lopusnak in absentia. “Singled out for their exceptional achievements in sales performance, customer service and brand representation, these dealers truly set the standard among our entire dealer network in 2020.” Triumph Motorcycles 2020 awards for North America raised the benchmark for dealer excellence. In addition to some perennial picks to click, like Tom Hicks, there were some new names on the list and even a new award honoring an old favorite for their passion and support of the Triumph marque.

2020 Dealer Of The Year, USA: Southern California Triumph Awarded to a dealer for their exceptional achievements in sales performance, customer service and brand representation. This is not dealer principal Tom Hicks’ first top Triumph honor, but he says it may mean the most because of the pandemic and the obstacles his team was able to overcome in the midst of California’s COVID lockdown. “It is with great honor and appreciation that I announce that Southern California Triumph has been given the award ‘Dealer of the Year’ by Triumph,” says the Top Triumph Dealer in North America. However he is quick to note the honors go to his team… and his customers. “This is the highest award given by Triumph and is awarded to the dealer that has the best customer support, sales and service performance, and that represents the brand in an outstanding manner. We are also the top retailing Triumph dealer in North America for another year! We have been the Top Triumph dealer for over 14 years of the 20 years we have been open, and our customers have made us the Number One Triumph dealer of all time in North America!” If anything winning again only makes the crew try harder. “It is very hard to fathom, and I could not be more honored! We strive to be the best dealer for our customers, and I am so privileged to have the best staff a dealership could have. We will continue to provide the best selection of motorcycles, parts and accessories while giving you the best customer service you could ask for.” It may not be possible to be all things to all people, but that hasn’t stopped Tom from trying. In the midst of everything, Southern California Triumph even stepped up as an e-bike pilot dealer for the Triumph Trekker: https://issuu.com/dealernews/docs/issue__6_june_2020/38

2020 Dealer Of The Year, CANADA: Triumph Of Langley Awarded to a Canadian dealer for their exceptional achievements in sales performance, customer service and brand representation, Triumph of Langley “triumphed” over all Canadian dealerships. Part of International Motorsports dynamic duo of dealerships, Triumph of Langley serves Vancouver and the lower mainland… and serves them well! The dealership is a multi-time “Twin-Ton Club” performer. “Triumph of Langley is the best place to see the latest Triumph motorcycles, all of which are steeped in a rich heritage of speed, style and performance,” notes “El Presidente” Zach Graham. “Our friendly, knowledgeable sales and service staff are passionate about riding.” Established in 2003, International Motorsports has grown to become a premier new & used powersports dealer in the greater Vancouver region. “Throughout our tenure, we have strived to include the best possible customer service with top-notch repair/maintenance work and comprehensive new and used vehicle inventories.”

2020 Flagship Dealer Of The Year, USA: Triumph Cleveland Awarded to exclusive Triumph dealers for their exceptional achievements in sales performance, customer service and brand representation, Cleveland rocks according to Triumph… make that Triumph Cleveland. Ohio’s premiere Flagship Triumph Dealership. “At Triumph Cleveland, we bring you nothing but the best in Triumph motorcycles for sale! Located in Cleveland, Ohio, we have a huge selection of new motorcycles for sale. We also carry used Triumph motorcycles from time to time. And if we don’t have it in stock we can order it for you. Check out all Triumph motorcycle models available and pick the motorcycle of your dreams! We also offer a fantastic onsite service department and parts department. Fill out our contact form, stop in or call (216) 920-2727 to schedule an appointment or order your parts and accessories. Our factory-trained team of technicians will keep your motorcycle up to snuff or customized just the way that you like it. We’re here to help! Did you know we also offer secure and competitive online financing? Get pre-qualified for a loan before you stop in to shop, and our finance team will create a personalized loan for you. Save time and money at the dealership when you complete our online finance application! Continued on page 40

APRIL 2021

Continued from page 39

2020 Flagship Dealer Of The Year, CANADA: Andre Joyal Motoneige Inc. Awarded to exclusive Triumph dealers for their exceptional achievements in sales performance, customer service and brand representation. In Quebec, that dealer is Andre Joyal Motoneige Inc. After 46 years of putting the customer first, the Joyal crew believes in complete customer satisfaction. “At Andre Joyal Motoneige, good service starts with a warm welcome and ends with a satisfied customer. Unrivaled vehicle inventory is combined with the biggest parts, clothes and accessories selection in the Quebec Market.” And then there is the Joyal privilege card sent out after the purchase of a new Triumph… like American Express used to say, “membership has its privileges!” 2020 Champion of the Year. Each Triumph dealership nominates one enthusiastic and Triumph-centric staff member to be designated as their Triumph Champion. This individual is in charge of staying up to date with all things Triumph from brand standards, to in depth product knowledge through extensive and ongoing training. The Champion of the Year Award goes to one of these individuals who went above and beyond their duties as a Triumph Champion to elevate the dealerships representation and presentation of the brand.

THE BONNEVILLE AWARD 2020 New for 2020, The Bonneville Award was awarded to the dealer who truly embodies the values of the Triumph brand and exemplifies the legendary spirit of the award’s namesake, which was born in the salt flats as a tribute to the passionate riders chasing glory, who continually strives to exceed in all areas of the business, and who encourages their staff and customers to live For The Ride. Hermy’s Triumph in Port Clinton, PA earned this special honor for repping the brand since 1963. Hermy’s has been the rider’s shop for all things Triumph since 1963! We are a 3rd generation family owned and operated rider establishment that understands the Triumph Motorcycle brand like no other dealer. We boast an enthusiastic sales, service and accessory staff that rides HUGE miles year after year. The result? The Hermy’s team can tell you what works and what doesn’t when it comes to your motorcycling apparel and accessory needs. Don’t waste your valuable time shopping sites with lesser know how - when you need authentic riding gear and accessories for your Triumph, come straight to the source that knows the brand, the passion and the enthusiasm for the British bike icon like no one else – Hermy’s Triumph! TOP RETAIL PERFORMANCE Awarded to dealers who accomplished the highest sales results, regionally and nationally, are recognized. Concord Triumph Barry Eisenberg & Nate Sanel Pembroke, NH GP Bikes, Inc. Jerry Ordanis Whitby, ON CHAMPION OF THE YEAR Ray Notarian Triumph Cleveland, Cleveland, OH Rick Lenglet Triumph Edmonton, Edmonton, AB THE BONNEVILLE AWARD Hermy’s Triumph Herman A. Baver, Port Clinton, PA REGIONAL TOP PERFORMERS USA Region 1 Triumph of Westchester Region 3 Triumph Dulles Region 4 Triumph of Seattle Region 5 Tampa Triumph Region 6 Freewheeling Powersports Region 7 Triumph San Diego Region 9 European Cycle Sports Region 10 Triumph of Utah CANADA Region 15 Triumph Edmonton In appreciation for their efforts all winners will receive a special plaque to commemorate their achievement.

Alisa Clickenger, one of Dealernews’ Top 100 industry leaders and our Diversity+ columnist, has just published her first book. Boost Your Confidence Through Motorcycling became an Amazon.com #1 bestseller in its first week. Boost Your Confidence Through Motorcycling contains ideas and inspiration for both experienced and inexperienced riders, and uses examples from Alisa’s own personal journey learning to ride.

SHOWTIME

MOTOCROSS REVIVAL

Bringing The Past, Present & Future Together Page 44

LADIES FIRST

LIVE Women’s Motorcycle Festival & Conference Page 48

IT’S A DATE!

IMS Outdoors Schedule Set Page 50

MOTOCROSS REVIVAL

Bringing The Past, Present And Future Together

ccording to Webster’s dictionary, “revival” is an act or instance of reviving: a: renewed attention to or interest in something. It is also a new presentation of something old and the restoration of force or validity. It even has a highly emotional evangelistic aspect… as in the old-fashioned revival tent meetings. The forthcoming Motocross Revival meets all of these definitions, and more! Renowned motojournalist David Dewhurst has teamed with Vintage Iron founder and American Retrocross impresario Rick Doughty to take a step back in time and offer a heartfelt tribute to a magical period when talented and outspoken riders raced the most exciting factory machines ever built, while acknowledging the current resurgence of the motorcycle industry and to welcome the future of our sport into the fold… And then there is the greater cause for this evangelism: to help combat depression via the #MaxMatters mental health initiative. Dealernews joined David and Rick at Glen Helen for an inside look at what the Motocross Revival really means. “David Bailey and I had long discussions about running an event that recreated a bygone era, we were looking at the 70s, trying to make an event where it was more than just a race, it was a real ‘happening’ if you will,” says English ex-pat Dewhurst, who launched Motocross & Trials Magazine in the U.K. before coming to America to work for Cycle Guide back in the day. “It took us a long time to figure out where we wanted to do it because all the places we really hoped we could host an event of this magnitude just aren’t available. Saddleback, Sears Point, Hollister… None of those were available.” It may have been a golden era of MX, but the historic tracks that defined the era are now more than likely housing developments.

“We ended up looking at some other tracks. But it just never worked out. David was frustrated by the whole thing and said he will continue to support the event, but didn’t have the time to deal with the logistics any longer and I kind of carried on with the concept. Rick and I have been friends for many, many years and we kind of took the concept a little bit further. It became “The Motocross Revival” and we ended up here at Glen Helen as the track of choice.” “Over the course of the last few months, it’s really starting to morph into a celebration of motorcycling,” adds Doughty. “We’re going to keep it in the dirt realm at this stage, but ultimately, we want to make this a celebration once a year of all things dirt motorcycle and I think it’s going to be a lot of fun. It would be great for people that don’t even know a lot about motorcycling to come out and walk around and see all the different disciplines and bikes. “We’re hoping to have new models introduced here. If it’s got two wheels and it goes into the dirt whether it’s a STACYC bicycle or the new EV dirtbikes, we want everything here,” proclaims Doughty. “Old and new, we want all the people here and we want all the bikes here. We want it all inclusive. “It dovetails really well with what’s happened with COVID,” Doughty notes. “You know, everybody had all this free time and started buying motorcycles… you can’t even buy a used bike anymore because everybody has bought them up. They all need a place to all come together right and share that commonality. That’s exactly what this event is and what it will be in the future. “American Retroross is a club that that we’ve had going over the past 20 years and we’ve seen a big spike in participation in both 2020 and 2021. Again, having to do with the COVID effect, who would have thunk it, right? Something so horrible was so good for

the industry, but we’re counting our blessings in that regard.” To streamline logistics, the racing classes for the Revival will follow American Retrocross’ “something for everyone” format. “Our Retrocross approach is kind of like this event in that it’s all inclusive, we have classes for any kind of motorcycle. You can show up with any age rider. We just want to pull people in, put them on a track that’s safe for them, and let them have a great time. The vibe at our races is probably the best part of it. People come, they’re happy, they go home happy. And that’s what we want them to do. “We don’t want them to go home feeling like, ‘Hey, I’m too old for this sport’ or ‘I’m not skilled enough’ or whatever. We have had a lot more families coming out in the last two years than we ever had before, and it’s just awesome to see because they’re all in their groups and their barbecue, and they’re having a great time. It just doesn’t get any better. Part of what this Revival event will facilitate is that coming together, that reaffirming of how great motorcycling is for the whole family and what a great sport it is. “If you don’t have these events, then I think the drop off is going to eventually occur,” cautions Doughty. “We want to do all we can to hold on to those people and then bring more people in as a byproduct of being introduced to motorcycling. It’s our first foray, but it’s going be a great event. I think with our three-year plan, we’re going to see a lot of expansion. “I don’t think there’s any manufacturer that isn’t interested in learning to ride programs that create new riders and create new buyers. We want to work with them, and maybe have some on site activities here at our event next year and the year after that. I think that’s really important.

“One of the things that I think has been a great development for new riders is that electric STACYC bicycle. When I watch Supercross and they have the ads for those little kids… tykes, two, three years old, and they’re out there ripping it up on it… you know that they get infected with the motorcycle virus at that age. And then they’re hooked. They’re in it. And we want to give everybody the opportunity to get hooked on motorcycles.” ROAD 2 RECOVERY There is also a Road 2 Recovery aspect of Motocross Revival. “We’re going to have a silent auction, raffles, and we’re going to have a lot of different ways that people can participate in donating to Road 2 Recovery. All these funds are earmarked for the #MaxMatters Mental Health Initiative, which is going to be working with the riders and, and the racers to help them navigate some of the hardships that they go through like depression and anxiety. “We take care of the bones and the muscles and all that kind of stuff, but we forget about what controls at all, which is the brain and especially with concussions added to that whole mix. It’s something that needs more attention. I had a phone conference recently with Road 2 Recovery and several doctors and they actually were thanking us for putting this together so they could participate. It was very humbling to hear a doctor say thank you for laying the groundwork to where we can really get something done. “Last October we did an event where we raised $7500 so that money is already in the pipeline. It is going towards setting up some initial treatments, an 800-hotline and some peer groups where guys can get together and talk about some of their struggles. Continued on page 45

Continued from page 44 VINTAGE BIKES? Because the original concept was to recreate the Golden Era, there will be a display of Works bikes and maybe even some of the original box vans. “We have support from both Honda and Kawasaki so far,” promises Dewhurst. “They’re going to be bringing out some of their vintage factory bikes and their old championship bikes. We hope to have Marty Smith and David Bailey bikes from Honda and Jeff Ward bikes from Kawasaki on display. “We’re going to have a huge display of vintage bikes around the track here. We also are going to have some vintage box vans and we’re going to try and set up a retro looking pit area with some of these old bikes with the box vans. Again, trying to take us back a little bit to a bygone era and recreate the feel of 1970s and 80s motocross.

“We’re also lucky enough to have Langston Motorsports sponsoring a full bike show. We’re going to have manufacturers bringing out bikes, but anybody that has a bike they want to put in the bike show, there’s tons of categories that, you can enter and it’s only $20 per bike. Bring them in and sign up. Easy as pie!” “After 20+ years of developing our formula for fun racing. we have it down to an amazing program that is challenging but family friendly, safe but exhilarating,” concludes Doughty. “Old bikes, new bikes and everything in between!” Click on the Revival poster for entries and more information: https://americanretrocross.org/

REVIVAL

he Motocross Revival event is much more than a vintage race or showing some old bikes. It is an opportunity to make a real difference in the world, through motocross, explains co-visionary Rick Doughty. He launched the #MaxMatters mental health initiative after his son lost his battle with depression. “Max was the impetus behind this event. It’s another fundraiser for Road 2 Recovery and their #MaxMatters mental health initiative.” Doughty gives credit to Racer X Publisher Davey Coombs. “Davey said ‘hey, there’s a video that you really need to see… it’s called Revival and it was done by Fox Canada, Husqvarna Canada, Oakley, Shift MX and some other folks up there.’ “It is a story about a father and a son — not unlike my son and I — as he was battling depression. He attempted to take his life, but his father luckily was able to intervene at the last minute. Revival is his story of coming back from all that. And it was obviously near and dear to my heart and very emotional. The fact that it was called Revival and David had mentioned this whole revival concept that he and David Bailey were working on, I thought, thanks Max, you put those two things together for me. And now we’re going to do something with it.” “Mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide,” notes filmmaker Joel Kim. “There was a time when Greg thought his own issues may bring his life to an early end. Fortunately, through sport, family, and a lot of hard work, Greg has moved on and found the light at the end of a long tunnel of darkness. Come along for a ride as one man finds his happiness again through the sport of motocross.” Check out REVIVAL | A Motocross Video with a Message for Mental Health Awareness here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NIX__XlZvM

MOTOCROSS THE GOLDEN ERA

avid Dewhurst has spent the past year writing a book on it, Motocross The Golden Era, “It’s coming along slowly, but I can see light at the end of the tunnel. I’m hoping to have it out ready for Christmas this year. I have finished 12 chapters, I’ve still got eight or nine more to go. But we’re well on the way.” You can check the progress at the website, he adds. “If you go on there, you can subscribe and I send out a monthly newsletter and give away T-shirts and photographs… everything keeps you up to date on what’s happening with the book and motorcycling in general is there.” Between the twin labors of love with the book and the Revival event Dewhurst is in his happy place. “We really love what we’re doing right now. I appreciate the opportunity to do this. It sounds a little pompous maybe, but it really is an opportunity to give back to the sport which has given both of us so much. I mean, it’s given us everything basically.” “As Rick says, it is such a broad aspect of motorcycling, not some little narrow focus thing. And we hope we can generate this new enthusiasm for a sport which is almost split. We’ve got all these bikes in the background, brand new modern bikes and we’ve got all the vintage guys. We’re hoping to bring everybody together and just make it into a giant event every year.” Get the updates here: https://www.motocrossthegoldenera.com

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“Before COVID-19, Tigra Tsujikawa and I traveled around the USA scouting and promoting the Centennial Ride and talking to other female motorcyclists.” The Crystal City district in Arlington, Virginia, was where they landed on for the The Women’s Motorcycle Festival & Conference. Attendees will be able to participate in four full days of education, inspiration, professional development, seminars, connection sessions (networking), as well as a historic ride through Washington, D.C. and an outdoor ride festival, claims Clickenger. “The idea for a LIVE Women’s Festival & Conference grew out of those conversations on the scouting trip. Even then women were craving the opportunity to connect with other women passionate about the motorcycle lifestyle in a meaningful way.” COVID clinched the deal, even if it meant postponing the Suffragists Ride. “I am convinced that the need for this sense of community and connection has only gotten stronger over the past year. And now that the world is opening up once again, we are perfectly poised to deliver a memorable event in the perfect time and place.”

LADIES FIRST

LIVE Women’s Motorcycle Festival & Conference Launches

n addition to wrapping up her second book, doing double duty as Dealernews’ Diversity Editor and hosting a successful series of virtual events, Alisa Clickenger decided she needed to do something… something BIG. So, after hosting three highly successful online conferences for lady motorcycle riders, Clickenger is producing her first LIVE Women’s Motorcycle Festival & Conference on August 19-22, 2021. The theme for this event is CELEBRATION. This conference is specifically for female motorcycle riders, motorcycle passengers and women interested in learning more about the motorcycle lifestyle. As if this isn’t ambitious enough, LIVE coincides with the culmination of the Suffragists Centennial Motorcycle Ride - a cross-country women’s motorcycle ride event from July 31- August 20, 2021. “I am incredibly excited about hosting my first live Women’s Motorcycle Festival and Conference,” stated Clickenger.

“The evolution of this event has been such a wonderful process, with Tigra and I building upon each other’s ideas and inspiring each other to generate more and more colorful ideas for the conference. By sharing our mutual enthusiasm for supporting lady motorcycle riders and the sport of motorcycling, it’s been an absolutely amazing experience crafting this innovative and inclusive event.” Synergy has enabled the concept to expand logarithmically, she adds. “This event is a great example of the magic that can happen when passionate women motorcycle riders come together and share,” says Clickenger. “This is the exact reason why the both of us create and lead these experiences for women.” This is the first Women’s Motorcycle Festival and Conference hosted by Alisa Clickenger and Women’s Motorcycle Tours. The event kickoff is Thursday, August 19, 2021, with Clickenger hosting a morning of professional development for Women in Powersports. Thursday afternoon the cross-country Centennial riders and New York Historical Route riders, plus conference attendees arrive and join in a celebratory dinner. Interested participants can learn more about the conference at: http://bit.ly/wmcLIVEtix

ABOUT US

lisa Clickenger is a motorcycle traveler, bestselling author, speaker and community builder. Alisa is celebrating a decade of global engagement after starting her company Women’s Motorcycle Tours in 2011. With the COVID clamp-down she diversified her efforts by creating the Women’s Motorcycle Conferences in 2020. In her spare time, she serves as our Diversity editor. Alisa’s first book Boost Your Confidence Through Motorcycling: A Woman’s Guide to Being Your Best Self On and Off the Bike became an Amazon.com #1 Bestseller. She just wrapped up her second book and has sent it off to the publisher… all while hosting three virtual events and handling the logistics of the Suffragists Centennial Ride across country. However bumping off the rev limiter is nothing new for Clickenger. In 2019, Alisa was named a Dealernews Top 100 Leader in Powersports and was also named to the Women Riders Now Leadership Board. Despite running WFO her personal mission remains the top priority: to support and empower other riders, particularly women, to become their best selves and create confident, kickass lives they love. www.AlisaClickenger.com Tigra Tsujikawa is another Dealernews alumnae who always seems to be in the middle of the action. A powersports marketing consultant, she is a highly skilled technical off-road rider, seasoned on-road rider and community and experience marketer in the motorcycle industry. In fact. Tigra has two decades of marketing leadership working with OEMs, aftermarket manufacturers, rider associations and clubs, as well as show production and race program marketing.

Tigra is a leader in women’s motorcycling in the United States, serving as the driving force of both the 2009 and 2012 AMA International Women And Motorcycling Conferences. She handled the AMA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies (2009-2012) as well. More recently she brought gains to the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, managed world product press launches and customer experiences for a couple of OEMs. Well respected throughout the leadership ranks of the powersports industry, Tigra’s passion for the sport and deep understanding of the needs of riders is widely known. Her keen insights into the concerns of motorcycle brands, aftermarket manufacturers and motorcycle dealers has helped her myriad clients build successful marketing campaigns and creative customer activation and programs. #ByWomenForWomen Women’s Motorcycle Tours (WMT) is a female-owned motorcycle experience company exclusively focused on women. WMT offers life-changing motorcycle experiences, moto mindset coaching and bespoke motorcycle tours throughout the United States and the world. With years of event planning experience and hundreds of thousands of miles behind them, the team at Women’s Motorcycle Tours understands the power and excitement that epic journeys offer. The camaraderie and friendships that form over the course of their tours have proven to change lives, establish life-long friendships, and bring families together in a way that only riding motorcycles can: www.womensmotorcycletours.com

APRIL 2021

IT’S A DATE!

2021 IMS Outdoor Schedule Set

fter five years in the making, it is time to take it outdoors, literally. International Motorcycle Shows (IMS) has released this year’s show schedule and venues, including a 10th stop in Texas. IMS Outdoors is an evolution of the IMS brand that brings more qualified riders into the industry – the largest and only industry-wide effort to do-so – by introducing existing riders to alternative forms of entertainment and transportation that naturally compliments the motorcycle lifestyle and enabling new riders to test their balance on electric bikes, four-wheeled machines, and more in a welcoming and safe environment. “The IMS family cannot wait to bring the Powersports community together at our shows, including both returning and new members,” says IMS Senior VP Tracy Harris. “Each venue across our tour allows our IMS team, alongside our sponsors, including title sponsor Progressive, and exhibiting OEMs and aftermarket brands, to offer incredibly unique experiences to our attendees. No matter who walks the grounds, there will be something geared toward your liking.” The festival-like experience has expanded from the initially announced schedule with the addition of Fort Worth, Texas to the list of markets it will reach during the upcoming tour. Slated for October 1-3, Texas will be the seventh of 10 total stops along the inaugural outdoor version of the historic tour, a decision that has been made alongside the industry’s leading OEMs and key partners. The transition to new outdoor venues, especially with the recent addition of Texas, offers enthusiasts and prospective riders the opportunity to engage with products across varying terrains, topographies, and weather, as attendees

will find each venue offers hands-on, demo-oriented experiences unique to its surroundings. The outdoor arenas also support the motorcycle community’s renewed interest in market adjacencies as the nationwide tour will feature added engagement with on- and off-road products spanning two and four wheels, electric bicycles, and more. “We are delighted to reach the expansive state of Texas, bringing Progressive IMS Outdoors to an additional market for its inaugural year,” adds Harris. “We have deep roots in this region, having stopped in the Dallas market for nearly 30 years, and look forward to producing a new experience for our former attendees in the area as well as opening up our community to a wider range of eager enthusiasts.” While this isn’t exactly IMS’ first rodeo, Harris notes there will be some diverse new components. “While many of the traditional aspects of our previous IMS shows still hold foundational to the new IMS Outdoors format, we are so excited to incorporate a number of fresh and exciting activities from various demo opportunities to camping, electric mobility, RVing, and so much more, making our tour truly more experiential than ever.”

The newly rebranded tour, previously known as the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows (IMS), features three-day festivities in major markets across the U.S. this summer and fall: FivePoint Amphitheater (Irvine, CA - July 9-11) Sonoma Raceway (Sonoma, CA - July 16-18) Goebbert’s Farm (Pingree Grove, IL - August 20-22) Brooklyn Army Terminal (Brooklyn, NY - September 3-5) Carlisle Fairgrounds (Carlisle, PA - September 10-12) Texas Motor Speedway (Fort Worth, TX – October 1-3) James L Ward Agriculture Center (Lebanon, TN - October 8-10) SUN n’ FUN Campus (Lakeland, FL - October 15-17)

Georgia International Horse Park (Conyers, GA - October 29-31) Returning OEMs include Indian, Royal Enfield, Yamaha, Zero and Harley-Davidson, which will be showcasing its Pan America, as well as first-timers like Beta and FLX Bike, as well electric skateboards from Miles Board and eBikes from Giant Bicycles. The tour will also welcome back a number of returning tour-wide exhibiting brands including Arai, Cycle Gear, Enginehawk, Explorify Rentals & Tours, HJC, J&P Cycles, LiquiMoly, Michelin, National Cycle Inc., Ruroc Helmets and Yuasa, among others. Show dates are subject to change, as we closely monitor local government guidelines surrounding COVID-19. Tickets go on sale May 13th. Click here for more details: https://outdoors.motorcycleshows.com/

By Alisa Clickenger

CARRYING A TORCH A Decade Of Exploring Boundaries With Women’s Motorcycle Tours

nniversaries are Important. Whether we are marking years, decades, or centennials, these ticks of time remind us of significant events, bringing to mind something that otherwise might pass unnoticed. Anniversaries put a mark on the calendar to not only make us stop and remember, but also to pause and reflect on a particular event that has shaped us. Maybe even serve as a concept that should be revived? For a business, anniversaries are a good business strategy. Anniversaries are something everyone can relate to, and they have the ability to cut through the noise and carve a sharp focus for us to get our message across. This year is my 10th Anniversary of starting Women’s Motorcycle Tours. I have been empowering women and building confidence for women through motorcycling since 2011, when I led my first motorcycle tour under my own banner, the Women’s Empowerment Motorcycle Tour. It was a brand new concept for touring at the time: teaching women to tour on motorcycles… while touring. We offered pre-tour coaching and instruction, on-tour demonstrations every day and post-tour inspiration to keep riding. The name might feel a bit dated now, but whatever I chose to call it back then, every time I see my 10th Anniversary logo it gives me a little tickle. It skips over the ten years of toil and brings me back to the very reasons I set out to start exploring boundaries… and pushing past them! The goal of inspiring more women to ride while empowering and encouraging them to ride more.

I started Women’s Motorcycle Tours with that one tour ten years ago when there weren’t nearly as many female riders as there are now. In fact, we were somewhat of an anomaly. I wanted to reinvent the way women motorcycle riders came together and give a voice to all women riders on all brands of bikes and from all disciplines of riding. Novel concept! As far as I know, Women’s Motorcycle Tours was the first motorcycle tour and event company that focused exclusively on women motorcycle riders. From our modest beginnings, Women’s Motorcycle Tours has evolved into a motorcycle experience company offering life-changing motorcycle experiences, moto-mindset coaching and bespoke motorcycle tours around the world. We’ve added epic events like the 2021 Suffragists Centennial Motorcycle Ride (July 31 - August 22 of this year), Women’s Motorcycle Festivals & Conferences — both virtual and in-person — and we’ve survived a year of nobody attending in-person events. Can you see how easy that was? That 10th Anniversary gives me a new narrative in my marketing. Anniversaries stand for something strong and powerful, and signal to our previous customers that they were part of something great. The 10th Anniversary also adds credibility for our future customers, so they know that they are part of something enduring and strong. You’re not limited to just your brand anniversary in your marketing. In fact, you’re probably already been using them a bit in your Memorial Day marketing and in your Labor Day marketing. Reach into the archives of your community and commemorate the positive things that stand out. Get creative with your research and spice up your marketing. Bottom line: Create a new narrative that helps you leverage public sentiment, capitalize on emotions, and helps you draw customers in. Anniversaries can be a really powerful tool in your marketing toolbox when you leverage them correctly. If still you don’t think anniversaries are important, just ask your partner or spouse. No doubt they’ll confirm my point.

Alisa is a two-wheeled world traveler, author, tour operator, and event producer. She has been featured in a variety of media outlets as a woman pursuing a life of adventure and helping others to access their inner wisdom and be free to lead lives they are passionate about. Her book Boost Your Confidence Through Motorcycling: A Woman’s Guide to Being Your Best Self On and Off the Bike became an Amazon.com #1 Bestseller. In 2019 Alisa was also named to Dealernews TOP 100 People in Powersports. Her personal mission is to empower women through motorcycling and adventure while being a strong advocate for the powersports industry at large. Alisa’s motorcycle touring company is www.WomensMotorcycleTours.com.

Now, I’ll be honest, my ego was bruised for a moment. For just a bit I kind of hung my head and said to myself in a sad sack, pity party voice, “Man, even that old lady is running faster than me.” And then I considered my options: I could either be out here running, or I could be back at the hotel not getting any exercise. And I thought, I may not be running as fast as that person, but I was running faster than I had last week at this time. I picked my head up and finished my run. Down, Up, And Neutral See the performance problem is this, when you compare your performance to others you often demotivate your performance, stall your performance or stunt it through false confidence. Let’s take one key measure F&I PPRV (Finance and Insurance Profit Per Vehicle Retailed). Let’s say you’re doing $1200 a copy and you go to your performance group meeting and there’s a dealer in that group who’s doing $2700 a copy. Well, look at the variables, you could:

® THE SALE!

A) be comparing yourself with a dealer in a market where they are getting over list for their motorcycles (which affects the total amount finance ergo influencing reserve). You might be in a market where if you tried to sell at list you would carry this inventory forever.

The One Reason You Should Ignore Your Performance Group By Mark Rodgers

B) be comparing yourself to a dealership who is charging a $1395 doc fee, and you’re charging $75. (Even if controls are set accounting like this can lead to an apples-topears comparison.)

t has never been experientially proven that your performance is improved by comparing yourself to someone else. So, you know, stop it! Hey, wait a minute, isn’t that what 20 Groups do? Yes… and no.

C) they may be charging $1500 over MSRP for the service plans, and you are selling yours for retail. They might be selling a $4,000 dealer planned maintenance plan, and you’re not even offering a PM program.

There are really two ways of evaluating something: ipsative (of the self) and normative (of the group). The only way you can improve the performance of yourself or your business is to evaluate your own performance relative to yourself.

D) be comparing yourself with a market that holds 2.5 points above buy rate on every deal. If you’d try to do that in some credit union strongholds in the “rust” belt, I’ll buy you a mirror and you can watch yourself starve to death.

Many years ago, I was running alongside of Madison, Wisconsin’s gorgeous lake Mendota. When behind me I heard the measured breaths and rhythmic footfalls of a trained athlete. I smiled as I thought to myself, “Man, I’m really doing it. I’m out here with one of the University of Wisconsin’s Track Team, man, am I proud of myself.” Moving slightly to my right I made way for this young athlete to pass.

E) be comparing yourself with a completely different ownership structure, GM skill level, or sales manager skill level. They may have a Bill Belichick for a GM and you’re currently working with a Bert Bell. (You’ve never heard of Bert? With good reason. Known as the worst NFL coach ever was the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles from 1936 until 1941 where he won 10 games and lost 48. How do you think that went over in the City of Brotherly Shove?)

Like I was standing still, a 70-year-old woman shot past me like a gazelle on the Serengeti!

You get the point. But see if you’re doing $1200 a copy it doesn’t matter what someone five states away is doing. The only issue that matters is you focusing on ethically and legally getting your performance to $1250.

It is a part of the human condition to want to compare yourselves with others. It would be very difficult to not do it. All I’m saying is don’t obsess over it. Spend a few moments, and then get back to working on the things you can control that influence your performance. Yes, Or No? Do I think you should participate in performance groups? What, are you crazy?! Of course you should! It could be said that performance groups were first started by Ben Franklin back in Philadelphia (Cue groans from all who know my affinity for Franklin examples.) In 1727, Ben and 12 other tradesmen – ingenious men – founded the Junto Club AKA the Leather Apron Club (tradesmen often wore leather aprons to work). They got together to discuss business, politics and philosophy. It lasted more than 38 years. (If you’d like the meeting structure, just email me. <Grin>) Now, here’s the other danger with normative comparisons. I’ve seen dealers who had obvious areas where they could improve their processes. When those issues were raised their response was, “Yeah, well, we’re number one in our performance group so, we think we’re just fine.” This is an example of false confidence bred through normative comparisons. I love the quote in the book Change Anything by Kerry Patterson. “At first,” the executive explained, “we were worried by the downturn in the economy. But when we learned we were doing about as well as our chief competitor, we stopped fretting. Then one day our competitor went bankrupt, and it wasn’t long until we followed suit. I can’t believe how stupid we were. It was as if we were measuring ourselves against a corpse – and feeling pretty healthy by comparison.”

I absolutely think there is value in performance groups. Sharing ideas, commiserating with others, harnessing the collective brainpower to brainstorm, problem solving and accountability are just some of the great uses of getting together with other smart people. Just don’t obsess over comparing your numbers. What you should do is lace up your sneakers and get back to work. And that’s what I’m going to do right now. I’m going to lace up my sneakers and see if I can run just a bit faster or just a bit farther than I did yesterday.

It can also paralyze action. Several years ago, I asked about outbound prospecting calls with a sales manager. “We haven’t started yet,” came the reply. “What’s the hold up,” I inquired. “We don’t know the national averages for daily calls and their success rates.” “How many calls did you guys make yesterday?” I asked. “None.” Was the response. Doing my level best to harness my ever-present sarcastic tone: “So one would be a dramatic improvement for you.”

Be sure to tune into: SALES SUCCESS IN 60 SECONDS OR LESS as sales expert and award-winning Dealernews columnist Mark Rodgers shares how to accsellerate® your sales. Watch Mark explain the guiding principle of how to succeed in the motorcycle business even in these stormy times. (FYI, Mark only counts the content after the whizbang video open in his time limit, so start your stopwatches then!) Mark Rodgers is an award-winning speaker, best-selling author, and sought-after consultant, who has spent 33 years working in the Harley-Davidson industry. Check out his 60-second sales tips twice a week at Dealernews social media channels or contact him via e-mail: Mark@RodgersPC.com

APRIL 2021

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BATTERY CONSORTIUM

Positive News From OEMS -

Page 58

TUCKER ENTERS eBIKE ARENA

Launches 100-page ePower Catalog -

TIME TO SCOOT

eSkootr Championship Update-

POLARIS + ZERO

Ready To Charge Ahead! -

Page 60

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CURRENTS+

EV RANGER RESULT OF ZERO+POLARIS PARTNERSHIP

A full-size RANGER will be the first electric vehicle as part of the previously announced Polaris’ “rEV’d up” strategy in collaboration with ZERO Motorcycles. The vehicle will launch in late December; targeting delivery to dealers in early 2022. “Our rEV’d up strategy positions Polaris to help define yet another chapter in powersports innovation,” said Polaris interim CEO Mike Speetzen. “With the rising interest in electrified vehicles, we are investing in electrification in order to meet the needs of current customers as well as appeal to tomorrow’s powersports riders. The all-new electric RANGER is our latest effort aimed at leading the industry forward in electrified powersports vehicles.” As part of the Polaris rEV’d up strategy, the all-new full-size electric RANGER spearheads the company’s long-term plan to accelerate its leadership in powersports electrification. Design and development efforts for the all-new electric RANGER are underway in Wyoming, MN, with manufacturing for North American vehicles to take place at Polaris’ facility in Huntsville, AL. “The strength of our partnership with Zero Motorcycles and our own investments in electrification R&D enable us to leverage advancements in electric powertrains and performance to drive the off-road industry into the future,” added Mike Donoughe, senior VP and chief technical officer, Polaris Inc. “This will be one of the most technically advanced off-road vehicles on the market and reinforces Polaris’ position as the innovation leader in powersports.” “As our top-selling off-road vehicle brand, RANGER has continually set the benchmark as the hardest working, smoothest riding UTV, leading the market in rider-inspired innovation,” said Steve Menneto, president of Polaris Off Road. “The new electric powertrain will elevate the RANGER platform to a whole new level of capability, durability and performance.” “We’ve actively engaged our RANGER customers, and without a doubt, there is significant demand for even higher levels of performance and capability,” added Menneto. “They’ve expressed some very specific unmet needs, and our new electric full-size RANGER will effectively address them, unlocking a truly enhanced off-road experience.”

BATTERY CONSORTIUM TOGETHER

BRINGS

OEMS

Honda Motor Co., Ltd, KTM AG, Piaggio & C SpA and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd have come together to create a Swappable Batteries Consortium for Motorcycles and Light Electric Vehicles. Part of the Paris Climate Agreement and with an eye “electromobility” in the future, the founding members believe a standardized swappable battery system will promote widespread use of light electric vehicles. Battery standards will also reduce vehicle and infrastructure costs and contribute to a more sustainable battery life-cycle management. “Sustainability is one of the key drivers to the future of mobility and electrification will play a major role in achieving this goal,” says KTM CEO Stefan Pierer. “The constraints of electric drivetrains regarding range, charging time and initial cost are still evident. To overcome these challenges and provide a better customer experience, a swappable battery system based on international technical standards will become a viable solution.” “Considering customer convenience, standardization of swappable batteries and wide adoption of battery systems is vital, which is why the four member manufacturers agreed to form the Consortium,” adds Noriaki Abe, managing officer, motorcycle operations, Honda Motor Co. “Honda views improving the customers’ usage environment as an area to explore cooperation with other manufacturers, while bringing better products and services to customers through competition. Honda will work hard on both fronts to be the ‘chosen’ manufacturer for customer mobility.” Set to kick off in May, standardized technical specifications for swappable battery systems for mopeds, motorcycles, trikes and quadricycles. The OEMs are working with interested stakeholders and National, European and International standardization bodies. “Considering the entire lifecycle, a widespread application of batteries compliant with a common standard will support secondary use as well as circular economy. We are glad to be part of the Consortium as we strive towards our goals in the e-mobility sector.”

battery consortium, CEO Stefan Pierer was strengthening ties with Austrian neighbor VARTA AG. Already Europe’s leading Lithium-Ion battery manufacturer, VARTA has been expanding at an electrifying rate. Focus of the VARTA/KTM tie-up will be development of low-voltage battery platforms for vehicles from 250 W to 20 kW peak power. “With VARTA Innovation in Graz, we are strongly positioned for VARTA AG’s materials research and development in Austria,” explains CEO Michael Tojner. “The site is being massively expanded to drive the development of large battery cell formats for electromobility.”

KTM DOES DEAL WITH VARTA

Two Austrian Firms Set To Take eMobility Industry Lead Charge! At the same time as the KTM Group (GasGas, Husqvarna, KTM) was signing on as a founding member of the

KTM is ready to take the lead. “We see ourselves as a technology leader in the two-wheeler sector in Europe and want to set the tone especially in the development of two-wheeled electric vehicles,” adds Herr Pierer. “We will cooperate more closely in the e-mobility sector and thus send a strong signal in and from Europe with highly efficient battery systems in the electric two-wheeler sector.”

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CURRENTS+

FANTIC FOR USA

Tucker Charges Into e-Power Arena E-Power is here! Tucker Powersports has taken on a range of electric mountain bikes from Fantic. To lead the charge the distribution giant turned to Fantic’s 50 years of engineering expertise and focus on the customer experience. “At Fantic there is no room for shortcuts, excuses or compromises,” the historic Italian motorcycle and bicycle maker claims. “We are all-in, dedicated to our ambition, guiding our industry to a new era.” The worldwide electric bike industry has experienced tremendous growth and is expected to grow by more than 50% and reach nearly $35 billion in 2026. “We are taking steps to help our dealer network broaden their product offering which will draw in a new audience looking for fun-to-ride bikes and scooters, along with the clothing and gear that make the experience even better,” said Brad Turner, Tucker’s VP of Sales. “Our launch of the e-Power line with over 200 products makes it one of our largest new product programs ever.” Leading Tucker’s foray into e-Power are Fantic’s XEF1.9, XTF 1.5, XTF 1.5 Carbon, XMF 1.7 and XMF 1.7 Carbon. All five new bikes feature name-brand components, full suspension and disc brakes. Each bike is available in several frame sizes and the premium models come with carbonfiber frames. All Fantics feature 36-volt, 250W mid-drive motors from Brose. Tucker advised their dealers of their new e-Power program and has provided a full digital catalog of products that include hard-to-get electric mountain bikes, electric scooters, helmets, gloves, apparel, elbow and knee pads and braces, tires, lubricants, cleaners, tools, locks, alarms, handlebars, carriers, and straps. Several of the new products are sourced from current Tucker partners like 100%, Muc-Off and Strider, along with bicycle tools and equipment from Tucker’s BikeMaster brand. Tucker will also implement training and support programs for their e-Power dealers, including additional point of sale supplies and digital marketing materials. Check out the entire Tucker eCatalog: https://catalogs.tucker.com/view/247094049/2/

TUCKER READY TO SCOOT

The Fantic eBikes are not the only electrifying news from Tucker Powersports. Everything is bigger in Texas, including 16 models of electric scooters! A good part of their nearly 100-page e-Power catalog is devoted to “kick” scooters… although with capabilities that run from a fun commuter platform to serious off-road performer, and ranges of up to 80 miles per charge, there really isn’t anything to kick about. Dualtron and Minimotors Speedway models include options ranging from hydraulic disc brakes, ABS and no-puncture inflatable tires to LED lights and swappable 72volt battery packs. Once considered just for kids, electric scooters have evolved to meet the needs like the emerging “last mile” commuters. With capabilities that run from a fun commuter platform to serious offroad performer, and ranges of up to 80 miles per charge, these are a far cry from your kids toys. Retail prices run from $1029 to $4690. Tucker’s trained sales reps will assist dealers in ordering a product mix that meets the needs of their customers. “This is just a start,” explains Marc McAllister, President and CEO of Tucker Powersports. “Electric vehicles are a big part of the world’s future transportation and recreation. The mission of our e-Power line is to help our dealer network take advantage of this tremendous opportunity to expand their business and bring in a whole new segment of customers.”

SPEAKING OF SCOOTERS…

eSkootr Championship Ready To Charge! The eSkootr Championship (eSC) has officially unveiled the cuttingedge S1-X model designed by legendary Williams Advanced Engineering that will contest the series’ first races in 2021. Carbonfiber chassis, fully adjustable front and rear suspension and the Williams motor make these racers capable of speeds in excess of 100km/h (60mph) and cornering angles of 50 degrees. “We’ve been developing a series of prototype race eSkootrs for the past year, so it’s a great feeling to finally reveal the S1-X,” says

eSkootr Championship CEO Hrag Sarkissian. “What’s been most rewarding is just how many different elements have successfully come together to make it all happen – we’ve been pioneering new technology across every step of the process. We already know the S1-X is an extremely fast and fun machine – now we want to get as many racers as possible to try it as we push towards our first race.” Formed in 2020, the Electric Scooter Championship is the world’s first micromobility motorsport series. Formula E champion Lucas Di Grassi and ex-Formula 1 driver Alex Wurz are founding stakeholders in the organization. Stay tuned for updates: https://esc.live/

THE 2021 MOTION PRO NEVADA 200 TRAILRIDE An Old-Fashioned Revival Meeting By Scot Harden, photos by Miguel Santana

ith the theme of this month’s issue focused on “Revival” and the post-COVID outlook for powersports, I thought I would share a story about an event that I co-founded 37 years ago that continues to have an enormous impact on the sport, the Motion Pro Nevada 200 Trailride. The post-COVID “Revival” of powersports will be all about enthusiasts coming together to share their passion for outdoor recreation in groups, both large and small. It’s about the common bond and experiences that bind us together. It was 37 years ago. My motorcycling career was taking off. Everything I had dreamed of accomplishing as a young boy, including winning Baja overall, medaling at Six Days, racing rallies in Africa and starting a business career in powersports had come to fruition. The year was 1985, a year that I would experience success in both racing and business. I won the Baja 500 overall that year along with a couple of other major races and I was entering my third year as a District Sales Manager for Husqvarna Motor Company on the business side. This highly respected OEM distributor was staffed by some of the best and brightest our industry ever produced. My boss was industry legend Mark Blackwell, who, like Dick Burleson, Terry Cunningham, Mike Melton and Larry Roeseler, was a colleague. They were joined by a talented and dedicated group of sales, parts, technical and administrative professionals. And then there were the Husqvarna dealers. Some of the best, and indeed some of the proudest and passionate powersports retailers I have ever known. Husqvarna Motor Company in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s was a very special place. It was like one big family,

still basking in the glow of On Any Sunday. I was living the “California Dream,” as they say. Kristi and I purchased our first home that year, and just two years prior, we had our first son, Brent. I was indeed highly blessed, and life would have been perfect… except for one small thing. I missed home. I missed my friends, family, and most important of all, my riding buddies from my native Las Vegas, the city where I had spent my youth, met my wife and went to college. Since moving to California in 1982 to work for Husqvarna, I yearned for the long weekend trailrides I would frequently go on with my friends, especially my good friend Casey Folks. Many will connect Casey’s name with Best In The Desert, the world-class off-road racing organization he established; but he was also the owner of Sportsman Cycle, the first Husqvarna and Penton dealership in Las Vegas. Sportsman Cycle was one of my early sponsors, a mecca for local racers and my home away from home as a teenager growing up in Las Vegas. Between the two of us, there is a mountain of personal history, a deep connection to Southern Nevada and the special moments and experiences we shared exploring the mountains and desert surrounding Las Vegas. Out of this longing, the Nevada 200 Trailride was born. You see, the event was a trick I played to make sure Casey and I (no matter how busy or full our schedules got), always set aside time to get together and go riding at least once each year. It forced us to set a date and time where we would meet to ride. By inviting others, it ensured that we couldn’t back out at the last minute or cancel. So, we invited 20 or so friends that first year to meet and ride with us in Caliente, our favorite riding area north of Las Vegas in remote Lincoln County. In May 1985, the Nevada 200 Trailride was officially born. Over the 37 years since, it has grown to become one of the most anticipated events of the year on the off-road calendar. For many its achieved “bucket list” status, drawing riders from all over the US and even overseas. One of my favorite images from this year is with Ron Williams of Beta Motorcycles, Grant Langston, Kevin Schwantz, Rodney Smith and me at the Area 51 Scenic Overlook on Day 1.

Photo by Simon Cudby

The 37th Annual Motion Pro Nevada 200 Trailride was held April 16th – 18th, 2021. I’m thrilled to report that it’s still fulfilling its original mission — raising. money for the local community, opening new trails and putting a hard date on the calendar for like-minded friends, family members and industry associates to meet and ride. The only difference now is that approximately 160 riders showed up to share in the camaraderie, along with a number of the industry’s leading manufacturers and aftermarket companies, as well as many racing legends. Since Casey’s passing in 2017, I copromote the event with Casey’s son Daryl and his company TRACON as my partner.

“Revival” would be an appropriate word to describe the Nevada 200 Trailride because that’s just what it is. A “revival” of the shared experience that makes off-road motorcycling such a vital part of my life and the lives of countless others. I expect that we will see ‘revivals’ of all sorts take place this summer as COVID sinks further and further into our rearview mirror. In the end, a great ride is best shared with a friend, or in the case of the Nevada 200, 160 good friends! Scot Harden scot.harden@harden-offroad.com

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Scot Harden has enjoyed a nearly 40-year career as one of the world’s top off-road racers and compiled a set of records that few can match. From 1971 until his final professional race in 2007 — at the age of 51 — Harden mastered a wide range of off-road disciplines. He also has compiled an impressive executive management resume within the motorcycle industry as a brand builder, race team manager, sales professional and product planner with such companies as Husqvarna, KTM, BMW, Zero Motorcycles and Best in the Desert. Harden also is owner of Harden Offroad, a business consulting practice. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2008. APRIL 2021

Personnel Files By Alex Baylon

LIKE A BOSS… Undercover Boss

o you remember when the Undercover Boss TV show came out? When the show first launched in 2010, I remember thinking it was the coolest concept ever. What a great way for company leaders to not only understand their business, but to see it through the eyes of the employees and customers. Because it feels like we all are doing more with less these days and we need to refocus on our business after the past year. What do I mean by that? Well… since the Pandemic started, we have dealerships lay off employees, make due with skeleton crews, do business by appointment only, make vehicle delivery and pick up viable options, provide curbside pick-up and more. Now that things have started to go back to somewhat normal, we all need to do a little undercover work. What policies and who do we bring back? If the new normal is having records sales month after month while slashing employee overhead, it is time to see what is necessary. What I’m talking about is how this overwhelming amount of business is being handled by most shops with less than 100% staff. We all know units are flying out the door and the sales department is selling everything they can get their hands on. With that said, how are all these new customers being treated? How is your sales staff handling the incoming call when a customer is asking for a new unit? Hopefully they are not saying, “good luck finding one,” and hanging up! Is your staff educated on how to handle these calls and customers? This is where you come in as Undercover Boss. You can call yourself or ask a friend to call for you but make some inbound calls to your sales department. Have a plan in place and know exactly what you’re asking for. Be prepared with follow up questions and anything else you want to know since you know your own process the best (or should know it best).

On a side note, after visiting a few dealerships and talking to the dealer principals about the boom, I have a couple different answers that are worth sharing. I asked if they are outfitting the units with accessories since customers are buying just about anything you put in their face. One dealer said “No, we don’t have time — we are selling faster than we can get them, and we have about 21 deposits waiting for units.” Certainly understandable. But when I asked the next dealer the same question about accessorizing, his answer was 180-degrees opposed: “Absolutely! Especially right now when the demand is so high. We don’t make any units live until they are accessorized with a minimum of wheels and tires, maybe a windshield, and lightbars on our UTVs.” I felt it was important to share that gem with you because in my opinion Dealer #2 is doing it right. Especially if you are having to pay close to retail to source scarce units. Ok let’s get back on track. The Parts Department Here is another place you can go undercover and learn the processes that your team has in place and find out if it’s to your satisfaction. While it’s much more involved and time consuming to find a disguise to fool your employees, you or your friend (not working at the shop) can simply pick up the phone and check inventory on a non-popular item you have in stock. See if they take the time to look for it and verify inventory. Ideally, they find it and invite the customer to come down to the shop and pick it up. Are they putting a sense of urgency to the retail customer to come pick it up? Are they asking to pay for it over the phone to be ready for pick up when they get there? Whatever your process is, are they following it? Also call a few days later and check inventory on item(s) you don’t have in stock and see how your employees respond. A little undercover work now can pay off in aboveboard dividends down the road. Some customers have been out of dealerships for more than a year and we all need to find ways to bring them back! Service Suggestion Service Department is another place to check in with. Have a plan on the exact conversation you want to have with the service department, be prepared with questions that might be a curve ball to them. Are they following company policy? Are they offering excellent customer service? Are they answering your questions / problems with acceptable solutions? Finding techs has always been problematic… to the point where we just say “that is why we keep them in the back with the machines rather than interacting with customers. So what if you can use your time as an Undercover Boss to make some changes in the service department?

I saw this snippet posted on LinkedIn this morning is it really makes sense… if a tech has too much baggage and is keeping your service department from being shipshape consider this from the Marine Retailers Association… hey, I’m not too proud to learn from other success stories: “We pay the tech’s next month student loan payment for each successful month they complete in our shop.” – From “Golden Nuggets to Developing Marine Techs” TechForce Foundation. Student loan debt can be a burden for many in the workforce. Did you know it’s possible for you to help your developing techs — especially those within an apprenticeship program — in this area while they are contributing at your dealership? For more MRAA workforce resources and other “Golden Nuggets” like this, created in partnership with TechForce Foundation, go to: https://lnkd.in/e7WYXqT

Bottom Line When was the last time you spun some wrenches in the service department or worked frontline sales? Have you ever pretended to be the customer? Have you called other dealers with the same questions? These are great ideas to catch a glimpse of a company’s organizational culture. Engage with your employees and show them your results, like they have done on the TV show for the past 11 years. This is not an exercise to give owners and managers a pass to come down on employees, but rather to learn how to improve. Right now, more than ever, it is a critical time to offer the best customer service you possibly can as we want/need all these new customers to stick around powersports… and to bring our old customers back to “normal” and into our stores again. #PROfile

MIJ Industry #PROfiles

Dealernews is honored to work with Motorcycle Industry Jobs to recognize the people who make up this great industry. “When you start reading the Industry #PROfles, you will notice that 80-90% of them get their start at a motorcycle dealership,” says MIJ founder Alex Baylon. “The dealers are on the front lines and have always been the heart and soul of the industry. Without motorcycle dealerships, most of us wouldn’t be where we are today, so part of our message is always going to be ‘support your local motorcycle shop.’” In addition to recognizing industry pros, Dealernews is also working with MIJ to create a job ticker tape of the latest positions opening in the industry at the Dealernews.com site. Check it out at: www.dealernews.com/Industry-Jobs “Tell us your story,” adds Baylon. “We would love to feature you! Click here to fill out the questionnaire: www.motorcycleindustryjobs.com/industry-profiles/

MotorcycleIndustryJobs.com founder Alex Baylon has been hiring and firing people in the powersports industry for 25 years. Currently with a major distributor, he has also been with Dragon Alliance, Ceet Racing, MX GP Services in Europe, Acerbis USA, Motonation/Sidi Boots and Scott USA. He started MIJ as he saw a need in the industry for people who are passionate about the motorcycle industry to have an employment outlet. The motorcycle industry like many others has always recycled employees from one company to another and it has always been done by word of mouth. MIJ allows companies in the industry to post their openings and give others in and out of the industry a chance to apply and insert new blood and fresh ideas in the many opportunities in the motorcycle industry.

APRIL 2021

Confessions Of A Customer® By Eric Anderson

Confessions Of A Renaissance Man The Revival Of 21st Century Powersports

fter the Fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, a 900-year “Dark Ages” period in history followed. Now referred to as the Middle Ages, the reference to “dark” referred to the lack of control and a stagnation of culture… that bout with the Black Plague also colors the reference. The unifying power of the Romans was now gone, leaving behind somewhat of a cultural vacuum and a population decimated by the bubonic plague pandemic. Gradually academics, humanists, philosophers and mathematicians in Italy began to re-kindle ancient knowledge combined with an influx of new ideas promulgated by the silk trade with Asia. The Renaissance was born out of darkness. Fortunately things move faster nowadays as we look forward to a powersports revival after emerging from somewhat of a dark time for the past 14 years. Let the pandemic and the recession now give way to a renaissance in powersports, leading us into a new era of fresh ridership, economic growth and renewed adventuresome spirits. If we get the concept right, the money will come.

It is all too often however the venture capitalists, outside investors and money lenders get that backwards making it about the “money first” then getting the concept right… later. Many of the dealers out there had a terrific 2020 sales years if you had dirtbikes, watercraft and UTVs on the floor. However, it remained a tough year with new sales protocols, delivery mechanism delays, inventory gaps, curbside pickups and Zoom selling. It is now time to look ahead while we are enjoying having a breather. As I inhale clean outdoor air this April, I look around at the spring flowers, blue skies, my new grandson, and a growing vaccinated population. I have confident feelings for growth and adventure coming out of our own recent version of Dark Ages. A Renaissance of sorts is now beginning. There will be challenges, too. One of them will be to understand the newly sprouted shopping habits of the American consumer. Are more people really shopping on Amazon? I also hear an equal number of rebellious consumers are boycotting the E-comm giant for monopolistic reasons. Where else will they obtain their goods—elsewhere online or in old-fashioned stores? I suspect door swings to brick & mortar retail establishments will bounce back quickly, but likely not to pre-pandemic levels immediately. Let us hope being pent up for a year indoors becoming “zoom zombies” may have a springboard effect to get people back out grazing in stores and restaurants because we all have missed the interactive, social aspects of “getting out.

More challenges will likely come from lack of supply. Companies who pulled the plug on production during the pandemic will not be able to turn on the spigot quickly so be prepared to look elsewhere for products to sell. The container ships anchored in Long Beach harbor serve as a visual reminder of the fact that “on the water” doesn’t always equate to “being delivered.” There will also be the ripple effect of the Suez SNAFU which further clogged a crippled shipping system. Consider alternative suppliers, brands, distributors and manufacturers when you are planning your own business renaissance. It is not only a chance to renew old supply chains, but to explore new ones whether it is a e-bike line or a secondary UTV brand which you never previously considered. On the aftermarket side, it is worthy to note the watercraft, e-bike and apparel expansions of Tucker, Parts and WPS indicate a rebound. Out of darkness comes light! Since my world-history teaching father challenged me to become a “Renaissance Man” in college, I have continually pursued as many disciplines as possible in the short time I have on Earth. I had never thought of it, but the word “university” comes from the Renaissance quest to gain a diverse and “universal education” as a base on which to begin living a more productive life. Leonardo da Vinci was the original R-Man because he had what was labeled an “unquenchable curiosity” and “feverishly inventive imagination.” That is what it is going to take for all of us to emerge into the growing “light” in front of us — curiosity and imagination! Some of the emerging light sources are brighter than others or at least closer. Without sounding too evangelical here, be sure to look toward those illuminating success stories from peers and learn from them. Emulate them, adapt them and absorb them into your constantly evolving brand culture. Remember that a “jack of all trades” is a master of none—a Renaissance Man is a master of all. What obviously cannot work for any of us any more is doing business the same old way we used to. After all, those last 14 years were the Dark Ages of our powersports past. It is now time to step into the new role of becoming your own reborn Renaissance Men and Women of Powersports. Catch another gear and throttle up!

The ABCs Of A Renaissance

magine how da Vinci, Pythagoras or Galileo began to explore where no man had explored before. It had to have been considered odd, for example, to think the world was round while surrounded by flat-Earth believers. Time to expand your world view… NOW! You now must be able to break your old business traditions and become more curious and imaginative. A Renaissance Man knows how and when to relax, but also how and when to focus. Seriously concentrating on these fundamental drivers of human behavior will get you down the road toward beginning a new future in powersports retailing. Fill in your own definitions of what each of these ABCs means to you and your business: CURIOSITY (unquenchable) A) Learn B) Ask questions C) Study parallel industries and join other dealers. IMAGINATION (feverishly inventive) A) Be creative B) Think different C) Experiment

APRIL 2021

INTERCHANGE RATES No April Fools Joke! By Gene Lydick

very time you process a credit card transaction at your dealership, it comes with interchange fees. The very same banks that issue the cards are responsible for setting those fees, and interchange rate changes happen every April. Don’t be fooled, fee hikes are coming, and the complicated nature of interchange is still not easily understood. That is why in 1995 the MIC established a program to oversee this issue. Understanding the factors that influence interchange, the MIC BankCard team was formed to help powersports dealers in America achieve the lowest possible interchange cost. Guiding dealerships towards processing behavior that overcomes soaring rates, the dealer is instructed on how to mitigate the extra expenses that plague our industry. Many issues plague the powersports industry. One of the biggest challenges is finding quality companies to service this industry. From selling goods and services to ensuring you remain in control of your dealership, the vendors and companies that serve Powersports dealers must have a vested interest in promoting the health and wealth of the industry and the dealers that make up the industry we all love. The Big Bank processors are not in a position to generate the needed funding to help the powersports industry’s growth initiatives. Your business relationship with processors is one you have very little control over. It shouldn’t be this way. You should be able to determine the terms of your processing relationship like you do with other products and services you offer at your dealership.

This is the reason the MIC BankCard Program exists — acting as the dealers’ watchdog, understanding the ins and outs of payments and negotiating terms in favor of you, the dealer. In short, we keep the hounds at bay. While the big processors may not invest in the powersports industry, the MIC BankCard Program does. This program generates vital funding to help the powersports industry grow. Public land access is a key component to growing the industry, especially having safe environmentally friendly areas to ride our dirt machines. For 25 years, the MIC BankCard Program has generated much-needed funding for public land access. MIC Bankcard was recognized with MIC Chairman’s Award in 2016. We also have the honor of making funding available to the new Ridership Initiative. However he MIC BankCard Program doesn’t do this alone. Dealer activism is a key driver towards success, so our program provides dealers with MIC membership at no cost. This grants you access to the critical data that you need on a day-to-day basis to help steer your dealership in the right direction. You can also review the state and federal legislative reports that the Government Relations Professionals work so hard to provide so that dealers can stay informed on legislative matters in our industry, both positive and negative. Bottom line: MIC BackCard is here as an advocate for the dealers.

Gene Lydick, SVP MIC BankCard Program Gene Lydick is a 25 year veteran of the Motorcycle Industry Council BankCard Program. Prior to his current role as a Senior Vice President of the MIC BankCard Program he has held positions in sales, operations, finance and client management. Gene has spearheaded the design, development and rollout of national integrated payment platforms for GE Capital, Transamerica, ADP Lightspeed, DX1, Custom Chrome, Parts Unlimited, NAPA Automotive and the Motorcycle Industry Council. He brings a wealth of knowledge from his diverse experience and a unique expertise on PCI Security, Interchange Rate Optimization and Fraud controls. In his current role he also spearheads MIC Dealer Membership enrollment and dealer participation in local and national Legislative affairs.

A RISING TIDE LIFTS ALL BOATS By Donald Amador

evival is a noun often used to describe a process where a person, activity, or other interest is reenergized after a period of dormancy or inaction. That is what the powersports community and the nation as a whole is experiencing as we emerge out of this hole. While it seems to be a centuries-long COVID-19 “dark ages,” it is vital to remember – if you are not still suffering from pandemic-induced depression, brain fog or economic ruin – what contributes to the revival of our sport and people. During the early months of the COVID shutdown, offroaders and other recreation enthusiasts were told to stay home and avoid most all forms of outdoor activities, including the use of OHVs. The soft tyranny of what seemed to many as extended and arbitrary government mandated closures challenged the rugged individualism and independent character traits shared by many in the powersports industry and recreation community. On the other hand, powersports dealerships were deemed essential businesses – a very good thing – and many saw a marked increase in vehicle sales. Unfortunately, almost all of the nation’s local, state and federal land agencies were forced to shutter their office doors and relegate staff to working from home.

During the summer of 2020 while public land managers were operating at a significantly reduced capacity, the nation experienced a massive explosion in all forms of outdoor recreation due to a pent-up demand by people who wanted to escape the COVID madness. We essentially had no place to legally recreate, even though our industry was deemed essential — yet another COVID-created paradox. Even in the areas that were able to stay open, albeit on a limited basis, there were unforeseen consequences. In many cases, public land OHV riding areas, facilities and essential recreation staff were overwhelmed by the masses. This flood of new riders included newbies with little, if any, outdoor experience or acquaintance with land-use or trail ethics. However, we are experiencing a revival of sorts as COVID restrictions ease and land agencies staff up in preparation for outdoor recreation activities this spring and summer. Non-government partners including clubs, non-profits and dealers, have a responsibility to ensure they are doing their part in supporting responsible use on designated roads, trails and areas so that we don’t screw up the recovery. We also have a duty to sync our outreach endeavors with the land manager’s capacity to participate. For example, some park units will be able to host large-scale volunteer efforts while some areas will only be able to work with a limited number of volunteers on smaller/ low hanging fruit-type projects. Just as was the case with COVID, we are all in this revival together. The powersports industry is well-poised to continue its pivotal role in the comeback of public land adventure for both street-legal and non-street legal OHV recreation through its various grant initiatives and other support programs. However, as the recent loss of Oceano Dunes demonstrates, we are more vulnerable than ever! President John F. Kennedy coined the phrase, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” The late Don Brown applied it to powersports in particular as a bellwether. I think that idiom still holds true. It gives hope to a lot of us as we emerge from this pandemic stronger than we were before. It is time for a powersports revival!

Don Amador has been in the trail advocacy and recreation management profession for almost 29 years. Don is President of Quiet Warrior Racing/ Consulting. Don served as a contractor to the BlueRibbon Coalition from 1996 until June, 2018. Don served on the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission from 1994-2000. He has won numerous awards including being a 2016 Inductee into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame and the 2018 Friend of the AMA Award. Don currently serves as the government affairs lead for AMA District 36 in Northern California. He may be reached via email at: damador@quietwarriorracing.com

Please tread lightly and travel only on routes and in areas designated open for motor vehicle use. Remember, Respected Access is Open Access.

THIS PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT IS POWERED BY

GEARING UP FOR 2021 REVIVAL

What’s old is new again? Certainly the revival of perennial favorites like Giant Loop’s Fandango tank bags and the expansion of Hippo Hands to a true three seasons riding essential would bear this out. However, the pandemic has forced a reset on how products come to market. Bridgestone expanding distribution to Automatic is an example of the changing dynamics of the 2021 reboot. ODI going from the dirtbike market to get a grip on the V-Twin market demonstrates the status quo is anything but static while REV’IT revamps its offerings for the expanding women’s market and FLY is set to take flight for 2021’s revival!

Photo courtesy of FLY

APRIL 2021

COME FLY WITH… FLY KINETIC MESH

Okay, so the soundtrack is more techno than Sinatra but that is appropriate for the launch of FLY’s Kinetic Mesh collection 2021.5. Technical features include integrated dual-mesh construction which allows for more airflow while filtering out dirt and without sacrificing durability. The multi-panel construction makes for max performance while the multi-directional stretch-rib panels offer full flexibility. And like Goldilocks might say the standard fit is not too tight, not too loose, but just right! Jerseys start at Youth Small and go up to 2XL for the bigger kids, pants range from 22-40. MSRP $38.95 for Kinetic Mesh jerseys and $119.95 for matching pants. Contact your WPS rep for dealer specials. Click here to see the gear in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXwYK95W4R8

SHE HAS GOT SOME SAND!

Rev’It doesn’t believe in the “shrink it and pink it” approach to women’s apparel. “With a host of female designers and product developers under our roof, as well as our very own Women’s Adventure Riding Team, we can gather the necessary information and feedback to point our adventure travel clothing in the right direction; helping to create the ideal tailored gear for the female riding community,” explains Paolo Bacchiarello, President REV’IT Sport USA. New for Spring/Summer ‘21 is the Sand 4 H2O jacket; the product of four generations of consistently improving on the best-ofthe-best. “When we introduced the original Sand jacket back in 2009, we set out to build an ADV garment that addressed all the wants and needs of adventure riders. Since then, the world of adventure riding evolved, and so has our flagship ADV jacket.” The Sand 4 H2O Ladies not only comes with updated features like a detachable and separately wearable waterproof liner, a detachable thermal liner for multi-season use, CE-level 2 SEEFLEX armor at the shoulders and elbows, and much more. Not to mention its lightweight and highly abrasion-resistant outer shell and a refined waistline cut to improve comfort and fit, both on and off the bike:https:// www.revitsport.com/en/explore/ridertype/motorcycle-clothingadventure-travel/womens-motorcycle-clothing-sand-4

AUTOMATIC ADDS BRIDGESTONE

Automatic Distributors has partnered with Bridgestone for 2021… and beyond. The new distribution agreement opens the doors for Automatic’s dealer network to supply Bridgestone’s entire line of motorcycle tires. “We are excited to come aboard with Automatic Distributors,” said Jared Williams, general manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire Business in the United States and Canada. “Jeff Graham and the team at Automatic have built an awesome culture focused on personalized dealer service in the powersports industry, and we couldn’t be happier to be a part of the team now.” With models ranging across multiple riding disciplines, Bridgestone offers a solution for every level of rider. The RS11 and S22 will deliver unmatched performance for track days… Customers cruising canyons on baggers? The Battlecruise H50 and Exedra MAX will keep them grounded for those long runs. Doing it in the dirt? That is where Battlecross X series fits into Bridgestone’s range. For more information on how to become an Automatic dealer, click here: www.autodist.com

ODI GETS A GRIP ON THE V-TWIN MARKET

“When I ride any motorcycle, the feel at the handlebars is crucial to me,” says FMX hero Carey Hart on collaborating with ODI HART-LUCK Full-Waffle Signature lock-on grip sets for V-Twins. “Having a background in motocross, I have become accustomed to a grip set-up that is very specific. With the growth in performance V-Twin, I thought it only made sense to merge my background in motocross with my future in V-Twin.” ODI’s Lock-On technology was used to provide a secure mounting system while facilitating easy installation and removal. Each set is manufactured with an in-The molded-in throttle tubes are model specific and the billetaluminum clamp system is available in anodized colors to match custom builds. Click here to get a grip: https://www.odigrips.com/collections/v-twin-grips

FANDANGO BAGS

Although the Bümer air deployment bag released by Giant Loop on April 1 may have been a prank, the redesigned Fandango tank bag it was depicted housing it is no joke. The Fandango’s slightly taller profile delivering an additional 2 liters of packable volume. It keeps essentials handy without interfering with rider’s body position, whether seated or standing on the footpegs. The harness mounts over fuel fill, with concave shapes on the bottom of the tank bags to allow air vents to breathe. And for fill-ups, just zip it and flip it – no need to remove or remount anything! Made from rugged Bomb Shell coated fabric with hybrid RF-welded and sewn construction, the Fandango bags are designed to be completely waterproof, mudproof, snowproof and dustproof when used with included Tank Bag Dry Pod inner liner. “Giant Loop sells dealer direct, and we are distributed in the USA by WPS and Tucker,” explains brand founder, Harold Olaf Cecil. “I think there’s some confusion, as some of our rivals sell consumer direct only. This has never been Giant Loop’s strategy - we support dealers and always have.” Check out the resigned Fandango here:https://www. giantloopmoto.com/product/fandango-tank-bag/

GET YOUR MITTS ON HIPPO HANDS

“We’ve beefed up the design all around to hold their shape while riding seated or standing on the pegs, explains Hippo Hands president, Bryan Miller, “These new Hippo Hands are warmer and more repellent to adverse weather, but still protective against chilling winds and rain in any season. Everyone who has tried the newly designed product loves them and ends up using them more often than first realized and in lieu of heavier, clunky gloves.” The redesigned range has expanded into three models, transforming the functional namesake into a more engineered and stylish necessity to be used for 3-season riding. No longer only made for wet winter riding, the newly designed Hippo Hands enable riders to wear lighter-weight gloves in cooler weather permitting a more controlling, tactile grip on the bars and levers. Miller adds. To get your mitts on Hippo Hands, click here:www.HippoHands.com

APRIL 2021

THAT SMELL!

11th Annual Wiseco 2-Stroke MX World Championships Photos by Aliceje Keyburn & Anthony Wellington

lthough the Easter Bunny was a no-show at the 11th Annual Wiseco 2-Stroke MX World Championships hosted by Fasthouse, Ronnie Mac showed up Easter Weekend at Glen Helen, CA, as did a host of kids, big and little for all the fun. Normally held early-April, last year’s event was postponed into October due to COVID, cutting the time between events in half, but effectively doubling the fun for pre-mix people. A perfect day for racing, a packed vendor midway and even a couple of food trucks made this the perfect Easter party. “Glen Helen is honored to have Wiseco on board as the title sponsor of the Wiseco 2-Stroke World Championships,” said Lori Wilson, Events and Sponsorships Director for Glen Helen Raceway. “The event has grown every year, and with Wiseco’s support for 2021, the event was the largest ever.” Wiseco used the event to celebrate its 80th birthday and found the setting perfect. “Wiseco was founded by grassroots racers on a passion for 2-stroke competition and performance 80 years ago and has been developing and racing two-strokes of all disciplines ever since,” says Scott Highland, Director of Powersports for Wiseco. “We are all avid racers and share a passion for the sport, so we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to continue our support of the iconic 2-Stroke Championships at Glen Helen. Long live the Ring-Ding-Ding!”

Similar to last year, the 2021 event offered a combined pro purse of $10,000 which drew some top tier talent. However, with 40 classes covering everything from 50cc to Open displacements, youth to 70+ age ranges, and beginner to pro skill levels, there literally was something for everyone. Additionally, actor Pasha Afshar brought back the Pasha Racing 125cc Pro classes. Serious money made for some serious racing… well, with the exception of a certain overall wearing lunatic. Fan favorite Ronnie Mac put down his PBR long enough to grab a monster holeshot from the outside and led the first lap by a country mile before stopping for a beer break (haters gonna hate claiming he jumped the start and cut the course, but the camera never lies). Meanwhile Robbie Wageman went from selling jerky on the packed vendor row, to winning when Josh Grant came up short in Open Pro practice. While Grant was suffering six broken ribs, his wadded bike was left sitting there. After Wageman asked if he could race Grant’s bent bike, the Twisted Development Team did what they could to straighten the wadded YZ. “We went to town repairing cases with JB Weld and straightening the bars and pipe,” said the team on social media, noting they had to leave the bent subframe — somehow Wageman was able to roll with only one practice lap.

Beta USA’s Dare DeMartile didn’t have much more time on his Beta 300 RR than Wageman, only spending a couple of days on it before heading to the race. “It was my first-ever race and fourth time ever riding the Beta 300 RR,” claimed DeMartile. “I’ve been learning the motorcycle since I got it last week and I’m very impressed with it. I think it’s a great bike…” the Beta was good enough right out of the crate to net DeMartile second overall with 2-3 finishes. As usual the 50+ 125 Pro class was a barn burner between Dr. D Doug Dubach and the ageless Kurt Nicoll. After going hammer and tong the former GP racer beat the journeyman pro with Nicoll going 1-1 to Dubach’s 2-2. Alan Jullien passed Dirt Bike OG test pilot Pete Murray in the second moto to clinch 3rd on the day. While the old guys were battling on the big track, Glen Helen was facilitating the next generation of smokers by giving 50cc/65cc beginners and first-time racers a unique experience at this year’s 2-Stroke Championships. The completely redesigned Peewee Track gave up-andcoming riders a fun racing experience. The two-moto 50cc/65cc race saw all finishers score trophies and prizes. Hopefully it worked and the next generation of 2-Smokers is hooked!

Open Pro Results Robbie Wageman (Yam) 1-2 Dare DeMartile (Bet) 2-3 Trevor Stewart (Yam) 7-1 Brandon Ray (Yam) 5-4 Griffin Dexter (Hus) 6-6 Jerry Robin (Yam) 3-9 Sean Collier (Yam) 9-5 Josh Mosiman (Hus) 4-10 Jason Potter (Hon) 8-8 RJ Wageman (Yam) 10-7

APRIL 2021

AVE ATQUE VALE Dale Walksler 1952-2021

ulti-time Dealernews Top 100 winner, perennial “Best Use Of A Theme” winner, moto historian, museum curator and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Dale Walksler died at home February 3 after battling with cancer for four years. An entrepreneur as a teenager, Walksler was a wheeler and a dealer from the beginning. He bought and sold Harley parts during high school before launching Dale’s Hogs motorcycle store in 1973 when he was only 18. He opened his second shop, ‘Custom Works’ in 1975. In 1977, when the opportunity to buy a franchise opened up, young Dale seized the chance. With a loan from his father Bernie, Walksler became one of the youngest Harley-Davidson dealers in the history of the Motor Company at 22, when he bought Harley-Davidson of Mount Vernon, Illinois. As his business grew, Dale moved his motorcycle collection into the dealership to attract customers. The draw was unmistakable as the dealership immediately differentiated itself… and began decades of dominance in the annual Top 100 awards recognizing retail excellence. His larger-than-life personality and marketing prowess allowed him to turn a small rural dealership into one of the most successful Harley-Davidson franchises in the country. He renamed the dealership “Dale’s Harley Davidson” in 1982 and began his ascent to his status as a treasured motorcycle icon. In 1997, Dale rode a 1917 Henderson motorcycle coastto-coast and beat Alan Bedell’s old transcontinental record, ending in New York City with an appearance on The Today Show with Al Roker.

One of our favorite dealerships, Dale’s Harley remains the only 4X winner of the Best Use Of A Theme award in the Dealernews Top 100… but that was just the tip of the real excellence juggernaut this operation was. Dale was a 14X Top 100 winner before he sold the dealership. When he sold the dealership in 2000, Dale toured the country scouting out a new location for his Dale’s Wheels Through Time Museum. He settled on Maggie Valley, NC adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway where he built a world-class facility to house his burgeoning collection of 350+ vintage American-made motorcycles. Although the Dale’s Wheels Through Time Museum is only open six months a year, more than 100,000 visitors tour its exhibits annually… a lasting legacy from a legendary dealer. From December through April, the staff restores bikes and arranges new exhibits. While we are biased and believe his accomplishments as a dealer stand out, it is the museum’s popularity that earned Walksler real fame, including appearances on American Restoration, Chasing Classic Cars, American Pickers and his own show What’s in the Barn? Even after becoming an icon, Dale remained true to his love for Harley-Davidson. When asked what drew him to the brand, Dale stated, “It was the panache of the company and the idea that four young men, working out of a shed behind their dad’s home, could change the world.” Dale’s legacy continues to change the world 100,000 visitors a year and millions of viewers on re-runs. Walksler was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2019. His biography can be found at motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/detail. aspx?racerid=514 Visitors to the museum often asked Dale what’s his favorite motorcycle, and invariably he answered, “The last one I just rode.” Here is to that last ride.

A HISTORY OF RETAIL EXCELLENCE

t 18 Dale Walksler opened his first motorcycle shop, “Dale’s” in 1973. His second shop, ‘Custom Works’ was opened in 1975, but things really clicked in 1977, when the opportunity to buy Mt. Vernon Harley-Davidson arose. With a loan from his dad Bernie, Dale became one of the youngest dealers in the history of The Motor Company. He renamed the dealership Dale’s Harley Davidson in 1982 and ran it through 1999. Gary Surdyke acquired Dale’s Harley-Davidson in 2000. Even after Dale shifted to his Museum full time, the dealership continued to generate nearly $20 million in sales annually for a decade. Later

American Landmaster............................................. 37 Best In The Desert Racing Association................ 81 Beta USA.................................................................. 47 Boost Your Confidence Through Motorcycling.... 41 Digital Lead Performance...................................... 25 DX1............................................................................ 35 EZ Rider Demo......................................................... 45 Find It Now GPS Security....................................... 11 Fuel Capital Group, Inc........................................... 59 Marine Retailers Association of the Americas.... 56 MBA Insurance......................................................... 51 Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC)........................ 69 Motorcycle Industry Jobs (MIJ).............................. 19

Gary and Linda Surdyke offered the dealership to one of their 10 children, daughter, Rebecca and her husband Matt Waterkotte who changed the name to Waterkotte Harley-Davidson in 2014. The Waterkotte Family then sold the store to Rodney Cabaness in June 2017 and it is now known as Roadhouse Harley-Davidson. Dale’s Harley-Davidson (Mount Vernon IL) Dealernews Top 100 Wins: 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998, 1997, 1996, 1994, 1993 Special Merit Awards: 2000 (Store Theme), 1999 (Store Theme), 1998 (Store Theme), 1997 (Store Theme).

Motocross Revival................................................... 42 National Powersport Auctions (NPA)................... 13 Piloteer Agency....................................................... 53 Royal Enfield.............................................................. 7 The Speed Kings................................................ CVR4 Torque Off-Road...................................................... 31 Tread Lightly............................................................ 71 Triumph Motorcycles America............................... 17 Tucker Powersports................................................ 21 Unfiltered Marketing..................................................61 Vanderhall....................................................................... 9 Western Power Sports.......................................... 2-3

Shameless Plug – For the most up to date dealer news, check on the news feed at Dealernews.com, be sure to like us on Facebook and click on Dealernews’ monthly digital editions: www.dealernews.com

APRIL 2021

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN Electra Glide Revival Released

ust in time for our Revival issue Harley-Davidson has announced the Electra Glide® Revival™ model. Billed as a “retro-classic motorcycle for the nostalgist who longs to ride a bike with style both distinctive and timeless,” the Revival is the first of The Motor Company’s new Icons Collection. The plan is to bring back one or two models annually for a limited run. “With The Hardwire, we made a commitment to introduce a series of motorcycles that align with our strategy to increase desirability and to drive the legacy of Harley-Davidson,” said Jochen Zeitz, chairman, president and CEO HarleyDavidson. “With that in mind, I am proud to introduce our new limited production Icons Collection, a series of extraordinary adaptations of production motorcycles which look to our storied past and bright future.” Icons are quite literally that: “an annual program offering very limited-edition motorcycle models designed to elevate traditional forms and celebrate Americana, either by revisiting classic Harley-Davidson design themes or by exploring ideas that represent the future of motorcycle style.” According to Zeitz, there will be a single production run for each model. Production of that model will never be resumed or repeated. Each Icons Collection motorcycle will be serialized, and the purchaser will receive a certificate of authenticity. “The look of the Electra Glide Revival model is inspired by the 1969 Electra Glide, the first Harley-Davidson motorcycle available with an accessory ‘batwing’ fairing,” explains Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson VP of styling and design. “The fairing became an iconic – and often imitated

– Harley-Davidson styling cue, its shape an instant on-theroad identifier of many Harley-Davidson models and the foundational design of the fairing featured on current models.” In 1969, the accessory fairing and saddlebags were only offered in white molded fiberglass, so the Electra Glide Revival replicates that look with a Birch White painted finish. The period-inspired tank medallion and Electra Glide script on the front fender complete the look. The Electra Glide Revival will be offered in a single color scheme inspired by the original 1969 colorway: The two-tone fuel tank in Hi-Fi Blue and Black Denim bisected with a Birch White stripe, with Hi-Fi Blue paint on the fenders and side panels. “We live in a very dynamic time, each of us experiencing constant change,” adds Richards. “The Electra Glide Revival model is an oasis in this daily turbulence, a way to reconnect with the fundamental Harley-Davidson DNA that created Grand American Touring.” Design highlights of the Electra Glide Revival model include a solo saddle with a black-and-white cover and a chrome rail, mounted over an adjustable coil spring and shock absorber, also a nod to Harley-Davidson FL models from the 1960s and a functional feature that adds rider comfort. Chrome steel laced wheels and wide whitewall tires add to the nostalgic look, as do brilliant chrome on front fender rails and saddlebag rails, front fender skirt, Ventilator air cleaner cover, fork covers, and auxiliary lights. Old school cool never looked so good. Global production of the Electra Glide Revival model will be limited to a one-time build of 1,500 serialized examples, scheduled to reach authorized Harley-Davidson dealers in late April, with an MSRP of $29,199.

• Classes for All Riders - Pro / Expert / Amateur / Family / Women / Adventure • Full Schedule of Youth Races – Watch The Champions of Tomorrow • 3 Years in the Planning • Throwback to the Early Days of Hare & Hounds • Neutral Race Site – Tonopah, NV • Amazing All New Rarely Used Race Course • World Hare & Hound Men’s & Women’s Champion to be crowned • 110+ Miles of Fresh Desert Not Used in Over 15 years For information contact: Best In The Desert Racing Association (702) 457-5775 • Website: www.bitd.com • Email: bitd@bitd.com

BY DON EMDE

Don Emde presents the birth, evolution and eventual demise of motordrome racing with amazing illustrations and rare historical materials. The Speed Kings: The Rise and Fall of Motordrome Racing includes 600 illustrations and 40 chapters over 372 pages. Four-color sepia tone throughout, and printed right here in the United States of America! Foreword by Kenny Roberts. An imprint of Don Emde Inc.

Order today. Email to: don@emdebooks.com Price options for mailing to UNITED STATES ADDRESSES ONLY:

List price: $75.00 + $10.00 postage

DEALER PROGRAM: Dealer Price: $45 each (Shipping included) Books come only in 5-packs for dealer orders (Total per case $225).

Contact Don Emde at don@emdebooks.com or call 949-632-4668 for information about international orders or other questions.

Dealernews Issue#4 April 2021

Articles inside

GEAR

PARTING SHOT

ADVOCACY

VALE

CONFESSIONS OF A CUSTOMER

PERSONNEL FILES

CURRENTS

IMS OUTDOORS

INDUSTRY RESEARCH

MOTOCROSS REVIVAL

DIVERSITY

DEALER PROFILE S

CELEBRATION

INDUSTRY RESEARCH

INTERVIEW

INDUSTRY RESEARCH

NEWS

WORLD’S LUCKIEST MAN

SHIFTING GEARS

LETTERS

INTERVIEW

EDITOR’S NOTE