Drag Specialties Magazine - August 2021 by Drag Specialties Magazine

B A G G E R

R A C I N G

L E A G U E :

R A C E

R E S U L T S !

AUGUST 2021

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VOL. 28, #7

HANDLEBAR HOT SHOTS THREE DECADES OF AFTERMARKET EXCELLENCE

$3.95

Thresher Bars

★ V-Twin Industry News ★ Deadwood Customs Police Bike Project ★ Jim Matchette Tribute

TRACK TE R

ESTED RACE PROVEN

CARBON FENDER

PRO SERIES SEAT

TOP TRIPLE CLAMP

RACE RISERS

CARBON SIDE COVERS

CONTENTS August 2021 H Vol. 28 #7 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Don Emde • don@emdebooks.com

ON THE COVER

Editor: Dennis Johnson • dennis@emdebooks.com

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Art Director: Morgan Williams

LA Choppers: Handlebar Hotshots – Three Decades of Aftermarket Excellence

Production Manager: Jen Rose • jen@emdebooks.com Copy Editor: Tracy Emde

Webmaster: Jeff Emde

Design Assistant: Kristina Nystul Breaux

Contributing Writers: Kevin Bailey, Beth Dolgner, Don Emde, Dain Gingerelli, Ari Henning, Dennis Johnson, Joe Kress Contributing Photographers: @caliphotovideo, @cvr_lorax, Scott Hunter/American Flat Track, Buck Lovell, Brian J. Nelson To our readers: Editorial space in this publication has been offered on an “advertorial” basis. While we have done our best to check the facts, our readers should be aware that the responsibility for accuracy rests with the manufacturers, vendors or sponsors who provided the information to us. – Publisher. Drag Specialties Magazine is published by Don Emde, Inc., PO Box 6118, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607. Copyright © 2021 by Don Emde, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system without permission from the publisher. Unsolicited photos or manuscripts cannot be returned unless SASE is provided. Don Emde Inc. cannot take responsibility for lost or misdirected mail. Don Emde Inc. assumes no liability for any material published herein. All statements and information are the responsibility of the authors and/or sponsors. Drag Specialties Magazine, Parts Magazine, Parts Europe Magazine and Parts Magazine Online are trademarks of Don Emde Inc.

Publishing office: PO Box 6118, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607 Tel: 949-632-4668 Don Emde Inc. Directors: President: Don Emde Vice President: Tracy Emde Secretary/General Manager: Jen Rose WE’RE ONLINE! Parts Magazine and Drag Specialties Magazine are available free online in an easily downloadable format. You can also check out the very latest news from the world of motorcycling in our online Newsroom. See it all at: www.partsmagazineonline.com

Printed in the USA NOTICE: Drag Specialties does not sell direct to the public. To purchase products seen in this magazine, please see your dealer.

DEPARTMENTS

» 6 » 10 » 84

Welcome Letter News & Events Parts Department

SPECIAL FEATURES

» 20 » 40

Bagger Racing League Inaugural Deadwood Customs Police Bike Project

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

» 26 Barnett » 28 Bel-Ray » 32 Mustang Seats » 34 Vance & Hines » 38 Custom Dynamics » 44 Drag Specialties Seats » 46 Drag Specialties LED Lighting » 48 Kuryakyn » 50 S&S Cycle » 52 THRASHIN Supply Co. » 54 LIQUI MOLY » 56 Michelin » 58 Maxima » 60 Saddlemen » 64 Biltwell » 65 Fat Baggers Inc. » 66 Drag Specialties Starters » 67 BDL » 68 Performance Machine » 69 Magnum Shielding » 70 Accutronix » 71 Feuling » 72 Wiseco » 73 OptiMate » 74 Rekluse » 75 Nelson-Rigg » 76 Motion Pro » 77 LePera » 78 KB Pistons » 79 Holley/ACCEL » 80 Galfer » 81 Avon Grips » 82 DP Brakes » 83 Continental Tires

E M D E

R E P O R T

Jim Matchette 1956-2021 by D on Em de

he passing of Jim Matchette on June 9th has been a tough one for so many of us in the motorcycle sport and industry. You’ll never hear a critical word spoken about Jim. He had worked for LeMans Corporation (parent of Drag Specialties) for more than 25 years and made so many friends along the way, including me. He started as a sales rep on the Parts Unlimited side of the company, then worked his way up thru the organization until becoming National Sales Manager for Drag Specialties. Leading the charge with the sales team and the promotional activities of the Drag brand was his dream job. Whenever he got to the big rallies like Sturgis, or the Drag dealer rides, he was really in his element; Riding, talking business and hanging out with his friends…and getting paid for it. I don’t think I ever saw him when he wasn’t smiling like a kid in a candy store. Jim played guitar and I will forever carry with me the great memory of him on stage at the Majestic Theatre in Madison, rocking with fellow members of the industry at the annual Michelin NVP Power Jam. The passing of Jim Matchette is a big loss for LeMans Corporation, Drag Specialties, the motorcycle industry at large, and his many friends and family. We were very lucky, though, to have had the chance to know him and work with him for the time that we did. He’ll be long remembered. ■

Godspeed my friend,

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

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MICHELIN Commander III Tires ®

The newest MICHELIN® tire for all types of V-Twin Cruisers and Touring bikes MICHELIN® Commander® III tires are available in two models: Cruiser and Touring. MICHELIN® Commander® III Cruiser tires offer the best wet grip and the shortest stopping distances in wet conditions among leading competitors.1 MICHELIN® Commander® III Touring tires offer an average of 25% longer tread life among leading competitors.2 Both models offer enhanced wet grip AND exceptional longevity, distinctive tread patterns, and patented velvet sidewall designs that enhance the styling of V-Twin motorcycles.

michelinman.com/motorcycle @michelinmotorcycle #MichelinOnMyMoto (1) Based on internal test conducted in Fontange, France using a 2016 Harley-Davidson Forty-Eight tted with 130/90 B 16 front tire and 150/80 B16 rear tire comparing lap times and stopping distances of MICHELIN® Commander® III Cruiser tires with METZELER® Cruisetec™, METZELER® M888 Marathon™ Ultra, and DUNLOP® Elite 4 tires. Actual on-road results may vary. | (2) Based on third-party test in Dallas, Texas on surface roads using a 2017 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic tted with 130/80 B 17 front tire and 180/65 B16 rear tire comparing wear rates of MICHELIN® Commander® III Touring tires with METZELER® M888 Marathon™ Ultra, and DUNLOP® American Elite tires. Actual results may vary. Copyright © 2021 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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NEWS EVENTS R.I.P. Jim Matchette 1956 – 2021

hen it comes to personalities, Jim Matchette had the type that would leave people feeling like they’d been good friends forever within minutes of meeting him. Always smiling, always positive, the gregarious Drag Specialties National Sales Manager made an immediate impact on every single person he came into contact with. Boss. Mentor. Business advisor. Life advisor. Role model. Beloved colleague. Jim’s presence loomed large in his 25 years at LeMans Corporation, and his passing on June 9, 2021 at age 64 has left the motorcycle sport and industry missing a man they also considered a dear friend. “Jim worked for the company for over 25 years, played an important role in the company and was integral to the success of Drag Specialties,” wrote LeMans Corporation President and CEO Mike Collins in a release. “Jim was a loyal employee, considerate colleague, and a caring and thoughtful friend. This loss will be felt deeply within our company and industry. “Our hearts go out to Jim’s family at this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts.” Jim first joined LeMans in 1994 as a Parts Unlimited sales representative in Florida before working his way up the organization and moving to Janesville, Wisconsin to take on the role as Head of Dealer Development. In 2004 he was named Drag Specialties National Sales Manager.

From left: Jeff Derge, Tom Motzko and Jim Matchette.

Rocking with his fellow workers and vendors at the Michelin NVP Jam in Madison.

Jim was a great leader of the Drag Specialties sales team. continued on page 12...

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

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NEWS EVENTS ...continued from page 10

On the lake, on the road or in a motorcycle store, Jim Matchette loved it all.

Over the past few months, Jim was looking forward to and planning his retirement, and was working with LeMans on a succession plan for his position. As such an integral member of the Drag Specialties team, he wanted to make sure he could offer his input on what the role would look like after he was gone. LeMans Corporation VP of Sales and Marketing Jeff Derge recalled that it was Jim who first hired him into the company, where he proceeded to help and support him through all the years they worked together. He said Jim was a great friend and co-worker. “Jim made an impact on every person he talked to. He was a great mentor for people on our team, our vendors, our dealers and in his own personal life with his friends,” Derge said. “He cared for the Drag Specialties brand as if it was his own. He cared for LeMans. He cared for the people within the company, and he was an incredible father. He raised two beautiful and successful children that he was really proud of. We lost a really good man.” Whether he was giving a presentation to the Drag Specialties sales force at the annual NVP Product Expo in Madison, or talking with vendors and friends at the Performance Alley before hitting the road at the Drag Dealer Ride, Jim was always passionate about the V-Twin industry. Tom Motzko, Drag’s vendor development person, worked with Jim for 17 years and remembered him as a genuine and positive personality who’s influence on the industry and his friends will be felt for years to come. Working together on a daily basis, Motzko said he and Jim really shined as a team, be it palling around in Sturgis or Daytona or in conversations with vendors at the NVP.

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

The two met in Janesville shortly before Jim’s passing for one of the first in-person meetings following the year-long work-from-home arrangement due to the Coronavirus. Motzko noted that Jim was an incredible cook and that after the meeting, he went over to Jim’s house for a killer ribeye steak and baked potatoes, before settling in for cigars, beers and a long overdue face-to-face conversation. “I was fortunate to spend that time with him at his house,” Motzko said. He added that it’s going to be hard to pinpoint the impact of Jim’s passing will have, especially given the closeness of the motorcycle industry, and the unique nature of the LeMans Corporation family. “It’s like losing a family member. Because of Jim’s personality, I feel like we should all take away something extremely positive from our relationship with Jim,” Motzko said. “It’s a loss that is felt by everyone, by the entire industry and his friends.” Jim is survived by his daughter, Jessica (Brandyn Frye) Matchette; son, Jared (Alysa Straub) Matchette; brother, Dave (Theresa) Matchette; his beloved dog/best friend, Blaze; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and step-father, Robert Reisdorf. ■

Make Your Mark.

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AND

NEWS EVENTS Bauman Wins Lima Half-Mile INDIAN/DRAG SPECIALTIES/PARTS UNLIMITED RIDER NAILS 18TH CAREER WIN

ndian/Drag Specialties/Parts Unlimited rider and two-time Grand National Champion Briar Bauman scored another victory at the Lima Half-Mile at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio.

The defending AFT Grand National Champion came into the Lima weekend ahead in the points, and was determined to keep it that way. In the main, Bauman battled it out with riders Brandon Robinson and Jarod Vanderkooi before ultimately claiming victory. “This is the same track I secured my first Twins win on back in 2017, so to be able to come in tonight, in front of a sold-out crowd, and take the podium after a dramatic battle is pretty special,” said Bauman. “We knew we were going to have fierce competition, so to have bar-to-bar action and come out on top means a lot to our team and gives us a boost of confidence as we look to the second half of the season.” Sitting at about the halfway point of the 2021 season, Bauman controls the standings with 139 points, while Indian/Drag Specialties/Parts Unlimited teammate Jared Mees sits in third with 116. The two Indian riders find themselves with two wins apiece after seven races. Bauman has recorded six total podium finishes, while Mees has five. ■

Indian/Drag Specialties/Parts Unlimited rider Briar Bauman celebrates a decisive victory before a sold-out crowd at the Lima Half-Mile. The two-time Grand National Champion sits at the top of the points standing at just about the half-way mark of the 2021 season. Scott Hunter/American Flat Track photos

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

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MotoAmerica’s King of the Baggers in Full Swing WYMAN LEADS HARLEYDAVIDSON SWEEP IN ROUND 2

wo races into the MotoAmerica’s three-event Mission King of the Baggers series and the HarleyDavidson/Indian wars have reached a fever pitch.

Kyle Wyman gave Harley-Davidson its first KOTB victory at round 2 at Road America, topping a podium that also included factory Harley teammate (and brother) Travis Wyman in second and Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson rider Hayden Gillim in third place. The championship leader coming into the Road America weekend was S&S Cycle Indian rider and reigning KOTB champion Tyler O’Hara, who had started the season with a win aboard the S&S Indian Challenger at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Wyman started from the pole and led every lap of the race all the way to the checkered flag. Indian-mounted O’Hara was in hot pursuit of Wyman for most of the race until he was sidelined with a mechanical issue, which handed second place to Wyman’s brother Travis, with Gillim claiming third. “It’s amazing. We got (Harley-Davidson’s) Bill Davidson congratulating me in victory lane. The who’s-who of the motor company is here,” Wyman said shortly after the race. “There were people that came out specifically just to watch this race, so to get it done here in Harley’s backyard is just an incredible feeling.” ■

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

Harley-Davidson factory rider Kyle Wyman leads Indian mounted Tyler O'Hara at Elkhart Lake. Wyman went on to victory with his brother Travis moving up to second when O'Hara dropped out. Brian J. Nelson photo

AND

NEWS EVENTS

Quality Cables, Trusted Name D

Spring NVP Product Expo is Back! LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — JANUARY 29-30, 2022

OE Quality, High-Performance Black Vinyl or Stainless-Steel Braided cables - including extended lengths. See your Drag Specialties sales rep for more information FROM OUR GARAGE TO YOURS

DRAGSPECIALTIES.COM

rag Specialties announced the return of their in-person Expo to Louisville after two years! The NVP Expo held at the Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) is scheduled for January 2022 and will kick off the spring premier selling season.

The Expo runs two full days beginning on Saturday, January 29th. Exciting new brands and products will be unveiled along with opportunities to connect with the industry’s leading brand representatives. Dealers attending the expo will receive expo discounts and additional incentives. Dealers should plan to attend both Saturday and Sunday, as it takes two days to see the entire show. Enjoy Happy Hour Saturday on the show floor then head to that evening’s iconic Meet & Greet taking place at The Sports & Social Club in the heart of downtown Louisville’s 4th Street Live Entertainment District. For two days in January, Louisville is the place to be! Located only a day’s drive for over half the U.S. population, it’s one of the most walkable downtowns and a premier dining and entertainment destination. ■

» Save the date and talk with your Drag Specialties sales reps for details on how to attend.

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

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BLACK HILLS HARLEY-DAVIDSON DRAG SPECIALTIES’ HOME IN STURGIS

ome this August, the Black Hills will be alive with the sound of V-Twin music when the 81st annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally roars into the region for that storied celebration of motorcycling.

Attracting riders from all over the world, the Sturgis run is an annual tradition for V-Twin riders eager to get out and ride, party DRAG SPECIALTIES WILL and meet up with friends from across the globe. It’s a party that spreads its way across Sturgis and Rapid City, and up to the Wild West setting of Deadwood and over into Spearfish, and of course, all the way up to the Mount Rushmore National Monument. Sturgis is, and always has been, a riding rally and those in attendance make sure to get out and about the picturesque Black Hills. For 2021, Drag Specialties will set up shop August 6 to 15 at the massive vendor village located in the parking lot of Black Hills Harley-Davidson, where many of its popular brands and vendors will open for business. The “Rally at Exit 55” is always a popular spot for rally goers looking for upgrades. The gathering will include a number of those highly skilled vendor product specialists and Drag sales reps. Drag Specialties will also have its truckload of FatBook bikes on display, showcasing products from the company’s extensive lineup of vendors. ■

» For more information talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep.

BE WORKING WITH THE FOLLOWING VENDORS FOR THE PARKING LOT EXTRAVAGANZA: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Custom Dynamics Dunlop Icon Khrome Werks Klock Werks Michelin Progressive Suspension Rekluse S&S Cycle Slyfox Vance & Hines Wild Ass Z1R

AMERICAN V-TWIN – BRAKE PADS FOR ALL RIDING STYLES

81st Annual Sturgis Rally

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AUGUST 2021

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

E V E N T

R E P O R T

2021 INAUGURAL DRAG SPECIALTIES

Bagger Racing League

Showing the immediate interest in the new Bagger Racing League, an impressive list of 57 entries made the trek to the Utah Motorsports Campus near Salt Lake City for the inaugural event.

t’s official – Bagger racing is serious and is serving up some extremely close competition for spectators. The inaugural Drag Specialties Bagger Racing League’s Battle of the Baggers left no doubt. With four main events completed in the course of the day, Bagger and American V-Twin race fans enjoyed watching some of the best road racing in America.

Meanwhile, mid-field positions weren’t decided until the final laps; as FITE TV commentators (and event organizer) Rob Buydos and former Supercross champion Ryan Villopoto pointed out, the quality of racing was proof that the level of engineering that the race teams have put into their bagger racers led to tight competition on the track.

The highlight was the finale, the eight-lap Custom Dynamics Bagger GP main featuring the world’s top bagger racing teams. But that happened only after winners were decided in the three support-class Main events – the Metzeler Pro Stock Bagger GP, the ICON Hooligan GP and the NAMZ Big Twin GP.

The third support-class Main also happened to include the largest field of bikes. About two-dozen modified V-Twin racers lined up on the grid for the NAMZ Big Twin GP main, and after six laps of hard racing, Rennie Scaysbrook and his RSD Indian Chief was first to the finish line.

The day looked as if it might morph into the ‘Benny Carlson Show’ as the Wisconsin-based rider put his Slyfox Road Glide across the finish line first in the Metzeler Pro Stock Bagger GP race before following that with a win aboard his Suburban H-D entry in the ICON Hooligan GP 6-lapper.

The support races completed, former Daytona 200 winner and top qualifier Michael Barnes and his Hoban Bros HarleyDavidson Road Glide led a strong field of Bagger GP bikes to the starting grid. Alongside him was Tyler O’Hara riding his S&S Indian Challenger. Barnes hole-shot his Harley perfectly off the line to take the lead as O’Hara contended with a wheelie

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

JUNE 26-27 UTAH MOTORSPORTS CAMPUS

Left: Bagger GP winner Michael Barnes leads runner up Tyler O'Hara. Right: Big Twins class winner Rennie Scaysbrook led from the start.

Left: Drag Specialties' Tom Motzko (seen here) presented the Jim Matchette Cup to Alex Fox of Slyfox. Right: Bagger GP winner Michael Barnes (middle) celebrates with class sponsor Megan Barrett from Custom Dynamics and 2nd place finisher Tyler O'Hara on his right and 3rd place Cory West on his left.

aboard his Challenger. Nobody knew it at the time, but that was when and where the race was decided; for eight tough laps the two riders remained nose-to-tail until the checkered flag deemed Barnes the winner. The post-race celebrations included the presentation of two unique Drag Specialties awards. Saddlemen’s Michael “Woolie” Woolaway was awarded a unique tool box as Mechanic of the Event. And, as part of a special team award, Drag Specialties’ Tom Motzko presented Slyfox/Suburban HarleyDavidson with the Jim Matchette Cup, in memory of Drag Specialties’ National Sales Manager, who sadly passed away only weeks before the Bagger Racing League event. ■

» Look for a complete report and more photos of the event

RACE RESULTS (Top three) RACE 1: METZELER PRO STOCK BAGGER CLASS 1. Benny Carlson – Slyfox H-D 2. Oleg Pianykh – Performance Machine H-D 3. Logan Lackey – H-D

RACE 3: NAMZ BIG TWINS CLASS 1. Rennie Scaysbrook – RSD Indian 2. Sean Ungvarsky – H-D 3. Tony Sollima – Speed Merchant H-D

RACE 2: ICON HOOLIGAN CLASS 1. Benny Carlson – Suburban H-D 2. Alfonso Vasquez – H-D 3. Greg Stinnett – H-D

RACE 4: CUSTOM DYNAMICS BAGGER GP CLASS 1. Michael Barnes – Hoban Bros H-D 2. Tyler O’Hara – S&S Indian 3. Cory West – Slyfox H-D

SPECIAL AWARDS: JIM MATCHETTE CUP (TEAM AWARD): Slyfox / Suburban H-D MECHANIC OF THE EVENT: Michael Woolaway

in the next issue of Drag Specialties Magazine.

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

S TO R Y

COVER STORY

CO V E R

The demand for performance-oriented bars for Touring bikes is growing stronger everyday. Not only do they mount up nicely, they look fantastic.

hen it comes to modifying a Harley-Davidson, chances are handlebars are one of the first modifications your customers consider. Not just because an aftermarket handlebar looks better than stock, but all riders are built differently. That is why LA Choppers offers more than 800 different sizes and styles of bars, guaranteeing that there is a fit for everyone. Comfort, style, and support are the main priorities for LA Choppers. From massive ape hangers to narrow T-Bars, LA Choppers has something for everyone. But it doesn’t stop there, LA Choppers also offers a wide variety of other aftermarket V-Twin products. Among the vast lineup, this includes (but is not limited to) risers, riser bushings, cable kits, wire extensions, lowering kits, air cleaners, foot controls, grips, exhausts, and axle spacers. You can say that LA Choppers is a one stop shop when it comes to modifying a Harley. The company has been in the V-Twin game since the early 1990s, when LA Choppers was a small custom chopper shop that specialized in aftermarket handlebars for HarleyDavidson models. Fast forward 30 years and LA Choppers is a big player in the aftermarket V-Twin parts world, offering products in almost every segment of the business.

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

One thing that really makes LA Choppers stand out is the company’s extensive manufacturing capabilities. Located in Huntington Beach, California, LA Choppers designs, prototypes and manufactures its products in-house. In addition to its own product line, the company also manufactures products for other brands, making it one of the largest handlebar producers in the country. Because of this extensive experience in the aftermarket, the company has accumulated decades of experience and knowledge when it comes to producing handlebars and motorcycle accessories. This goes beyond simply bringing its customers the latest, high-quality products to meet American V-Twin handlebar twins. The company is also always thinking beyond the factory floor. This means LA Choppers not only wants its end customer pleased with the products they’ve mounted on their bikes, it also wants the front-line technician’s seal of approval. Many of the company’s manufacturing procedures and practices will never be noticed by those consumers, but they certainly are appreciated by Drag dealer technicians. Those who are installing LA Choppers’ products will notice the clean welds, the laser-cut and beveled wiring inputs

THREE DECADES OF AFTERMARKET EXCELLENCE

LA CHOPPERS

HANDLEBAR HOT SHOTS

Thresher bars are comfortable and allow for agile control. They're also sturdy enough to muscle around a fully-built Bagger.

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S TO R Y

COVER STORY

CO V E R

LA Choppers designs, prototypes and manufactures all of its handlebars in-house at its facility in Huntington Beach, California.

PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS

and outputs – you’ll find no sharp, wire fraying edges here. They’ll definitely like that LA Choppers makes it easy to thread a wiring harness through a set of its bars. In fact, the company gives those skilled technicians tools like the Hero Kit, which is designed specifically to make a handlebar swap a snap. The crew at LA Choppers understands that time is money when it comes to product installation, so they work hard to keep things easy on a customer’s wallet, but profitable and less timeconsuming for the dealership. All of this begins and ends right there in that 50,000 square foot Southern California manufacturing facility where the company’s entire team is completely handson. From acting company President Eric Ison working the factory floor, to VP of Marketing Dustin Boyko testfitting and installing product on bikes, they’re all involved daily with the production process. Everyone at the LA Choppers facility wants to be 100 percent sure the company’s high-quality products are designed well, built right and sit at the leading edge of ever-evolving handlebar trends. This approach also includes a clear line of communication from the factory to Drag Specialties sales reps, dealers and their customers should they need assistance or education with regards to product. This team lives and breathes the V-Twin life. If you ever want to find the LA Choppers booth at the NVP Product Expo or at an event, just look for a crowd of dealers getting an in-depth education on handlebars, risers and other great products. No doubt LA Choppers Brand Manager Marshall Tucker and Boyko will be found at the center of it all. It’s readily apparent this team of experts loves what they do and truly shine when spending time with their customers.

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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AUGUST 2021

When it comes its specific product line, the LA Choppers team not only offers up such tried-and-true classes as the Twin Peaks and Prime Ape bars, but also pays close attention current demands and trends. The V-Twin motorcycle world includes a wide range of customer styles and LA Choppers knows it has to cater to everyone from the H.O.G. Chapter riders to the booming Performance Bagger market. In response, LA Choppers has cranked out a big lineup of new products over the past couple years. While pointed bars on Baggers are still hot, the demand for performance-oriented bars for those hopped-up touring bikes is growing daily. Always up to the task, LA Choppers released its Hammerhead and Thresher bars for Road Glides. The company introduced these bars with both performance and styling in mind. These bars have an aggressive design and offer the same dimensions of a T-bar set up much like the LA Choppers Kage Fighter line. The Thresher bars seen on the cover of this magazine have become a big seller for Road Glides for a number of reasons. For one, they are super comfortable. They have a perfect 30½-inch width that allows for agility in traffic, but also have the heft to finesse and control a fully-built Bagger. They also allow for the use of stock gauges, and let riders view the gauges clearly without having to make a single modification to the bike. In addition to that comfortable design and multipurpose styling, they are easy to install thanks to that handy Hero Kit. The Thresher bars are available in 10inch, 12-inch and 14-inch heights so there’s definitely a size for that “perfect fit.” They come in a Chrome or Gloss Black finish. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep for all the details on LA Choppers’ big range of products, including the popular Thresher bars. Learn more in the FatBook and OldBook.

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

CABLES

Cable Upgrades

Custom Sized and OE Replacement

Motorcycle cables are always in demand and Barnett has a full range of options for a wide range of models from HarleyDavidson, Indian and Victory.

Barnett also offers a full assortment of plug-and-play throttle-by-wire extensions when they’re needed.

otorcycle cables are always in demand. Stretched and sloppy cables need replacing, as do stiff and sticking cables or cables that are worn, frayed and ready to pop. Riders swapping handlebars or chasing a custom look will want new cables, too, in either longer or shorter lengths or with something other than an OE casing. Barnett has offered solutions to Harley-Davidson riders since 1948, and today’s cable lineup covers all those bikes from the early years right through to the latest 2021 bikes. Included in this mix are high-performance Barnett cables featuring traditional, midway adjusters, which are replacements for the factory self-adjust cables. It isn’t just Harley-Davidson with Barnett, either. Barnett also has options for most Indian and Victory models. The whole range of V-Twin cables is offered in those OE and custom lengths, with the choice of four different casing styles with four distinctly different looks. The lineup includes Traditional Black Vinyl, Classic Stainless Braid, a bright silver-plated braid Platinum Series and a Stealth Series black-on-black cable. All the braided cables feature a protective clear coat that is guaranteed not to discolor.

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But more than just being the right length with the right look, Barnett cables are a true performance upgrade over OE. All the wire is strong stainless steel, and all the cable assemblies are made and assembled in-house by Barnett. Additionally, all 1987 and later-year clutch cables come standard with Barnett’s High Efficiency nylon-coated and silicone-lubed inner wire. These HE cables deliver an extremely smooth pull with reduced lever effort. Long Lay – longitudinally wound – casings and stainless-steel wire rope eliminate cable flex or stretch. To ensure long-life durability, Barnett cable housings are lined with Teflon, Nylon or HDPE. Barnett also offers a full assortment of plug-and-play throttle-by-wire extensions when they’re needed. Applications cover all the Harley-Davidson FLs (except SE/CVO models). The extensions are available in 8-inch 12-inch, 15-inch and 20-inch lengths, with the 20-inch versions coming with a bare bottom end for easy routing through sharp handlebar bends. For more than seven decades Barnett has supplied riders with the USA-made upgrade-performance cables they need. Whether it’s a factory-look cable to replace an OEM unit with something better or it’s a custom-sized, customlook cable that’s needed, Barnett has it. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details and take a look at the FatBook and OldBook.

CHEMICALS & LUBRICANTS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Smooth Operator

Lubrication Designed for V-Twin Engines

Bel-Ray’s V-Twin Synthetic 10W-50 oil is a multi-grade synthetic formula developed to meet the demands of large displacement V-Twin engines.

Your V-Twin-riding-customers will appreciate Bel-Ray’s Big-Twin Transmission Oil, which is designed to provide smoother shifting, reduced gear whine and helps lessen 1st gear clunks.

rom stock form to fully custom builds, your customers are not only constantly relying on their V-Twin engines to get them to their destination, but they’re putting those engines to the test almost every time they swing a leg over the bike. Long rides and warm weather can easily increase operating temperatures, especially on V-Twin engine models that rely entirely on ambient air for their cooling system. Throw in riding up steep grades and additional weight, such as a passenger, and riders are putting their engines to work likely more than they know. Regardless of the make and model of a V-Twin engine, oil is the lifeblood responsible for keeping engine, transmission and clutch internals performing optimally and protecting against detrimental wear. With more than 70 years of experience in lubrication technology, the Bel-Ray team understands the specific needs of V-Twin engines to keep them performing for miles to come. The first in this line of defense is Bel-Ray’s V-Twin Synthetic 10W-50 oil, a multi-grade synthetic formula developed to meet the demands of large displacement V-Twin engines. This oil combines the benefits of fully synthetic base oils with high-performance additives, which Bel-Ray engineers designed and tested specifically with air-cooled V-Twins in mind, promoting better cooling performance in hotrunning engines. Boasting the highest viscosity index, superior film strength and exceptional sheer stability, this oil is able to reduce operating friction while maintaining consistent lubrication, even as running temps increase.

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Bel-Ray’s Primary Chaincase Lubricant is an 80w, mineral-base gear oil developed for primary chains and wet clutches of all big-twin motorcycles.

Despite smooth, cool-running engines, many Harley riders may be stuck in a never-ending chase for smoother shifting and a quieter gearbox. Through in-lab and onroad testing, the team at Bel-Ray developed their Big-Twin Transmission Oil to address these problems and more. This transmission oil was formulated specifically for the sliding contacts of gears in heavily loaded, big-twin air- and liquid-cooled V-Twin transmissions. With a viscosity rating of 85w-140, this mineral-based oil delivers improved gear lubrication over motor oil along with superior anti-wear characteristics for extended gear life. Your customers will be pleasantly surprised with smoother shifting, reduced gear whine and lessened 1st gear clunks, all of which are common Harley transmission complaints. Being riders themselves, Bel-Ray knows clutch feel and modulation can make or break a ride. The clutch assembly and primary chain of a V-Twin engine carry the responsibility of transferring power between the engine and rear wheel, a crucial task that justifies a specially formulated lubricant. Bel-Ray’s Primary Chaincase Lubricant is an 80w, mineral-base gear oil developed for primary chains and wet clutches of all big-twin motorcycles. Ideally suited to stand up to high pressures created through common riding conditions, its exclusive Bel-Ray anti-wear chemistry ensures long service life for the primary chain and prevents clutch slipping and chatter for consistent engagement. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and get more information in the Tire & Service catalog.

1L - 3604-0003

1L - 3603-0031 1L - 3601-0253

NEW COBRA FREEWAY BARS. TO TAKE YOU FURTHER ON DOWN THE ROAD. We’ve expanded our line-up of Freeway Bars for Baggers. Now in addition to a traditional hoop shape we have the more aggressive V-Bend and our all new case guard with its smaller profile than a traditional freeway bar. Both are heavy-duty 1.25" round steel in gloss black or chrome finishes. Like all Cobra products these are made here in So Cal.

WWW.COBRAUSA-VTWIN.COM

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

SEATS

Setting a Standard

A Seat for Touring and Around Town

on’t let the name fool you. Mustang named one of its seats Standard, but the comfort, craftsmanship and available seat options are anything but standard. These solo and passenger Touring seats are designed for 2018 and newer Softail models, giving riders the stock positioning they’re used to, but with a big upgrade in style and comfort.

Standard Touring Solo and Passenger for 2018-2021 Fat Boy

With the Mustang Standard seat, riders can easily get two looks and riding style setups with just one seat and its optional components. The Standard seat is great for long-haul rides, especially with the optional back rest added to the mix. Driver seat widths ranging from 15 inches to 16 inches add to a rider’s ability to really settle in for the journey. However, the passenger seat and backrest can be removed easily once the trip is over, turning a bike back into its stripped-down, aroundtown look. With fitments for so many Milwaukee-Eight Softail models, there are a number of varying width measurements and stitch patterns available for the Standard seat, but there are also a lot of shared attributes across the range. For one thing, they all have Mustang’s Max Profile classification. That means these seats are designed for long-haul touring comfort. The bucket seat styling is made so a rider feels like they are sitting in the motorcycle, offering a relaxed, comfortable stance that’s perfect for road trips.

Standard Touring Solo and Passenger for 2018-2021 Heritage

Other things all Mustang Standard seats share in common are the company’s signature construction methods and materials. A marine-grade fiberglass seat pan is topped with Mustang’s proprietary controlleddensity polyurethane foam. It is pliable enough that no break-in period is required, but resilient enough that it will retain its shape and support for years of riding. Mustang seats are designed for even weight displacement to avoid pressure points and ensure proper blood flow, allowing riders to stay in the saddle longer without numbness or fatigue. On top of everything is a premium expanded vinyl cover, which has a true leather look but offers the durability of high-quality expanded vinyl. The seams are reinforced for even more durability, and the hemmed bottom edges are hand-riveted to the baseplates for a clean finish. Each seat cover is hand stitched to top off Mustang’s craftsmanship. ■

Standard Touring Solo and Passenger for 2018-2021 Street Bob

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

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» Learn about the premium features in every Mustang

Standard seat by talking to your Drag rep. You can check out all of the fitments and stitch options in the FatBook.

World Class Motorcycle Seats

HANDCRAFTED in the U.s.a.

P/N 0802-1058

STANDARD TOURING SOLO

P/N 0802-1057

Standard Touring Solo and Passenger Seats for Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 2018-'21, Trapezoid, Black

WWW.MUSTANGSEATS.COM

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P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

PERFORMANCE PARTS

Executive Orders

50-State Emissions-Compliant Performance Parts

Vance & Hines’ VO2 series of air intakes are designed to be both a performance piece and a style enhancer. Each VO2 fitment includes a washable reusable filter, backing plate, breather assemblies and installation hardware.

ance & Hines specializes in three key performance areas – air, fuel and exhaust. That is why the brand has worked hard to create performance parts for Harley-Davidson Touring bikes that are emissions compliant in all 50 states, giving customers the performance, style and sound they want without stepping over the line. Maybe instead of saying that Vance & Hines is 50-state emissions compliant, it makes more sense to simply say the company’s parts are good to go in California. Everyone knows that state has the toughest regulations, so getting a thumbs-up from regulators there means a lot. Vance & Hines has plenty of air, fuel and exhaust solutions that have the green light in California, letting Touring riders there – or in any state – pick the right combination of performance parts.

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The CARB EO covers the entire range of VO2 Harley Touring fitments. Designed to be both a performance piece and a style enhancer, the VO2 covers are CNC machined from billet aluminum. Each VO2 fitment is a Fuelpak FP3

complete kit, with a washable, reusable filter as well as a specially-designed backing plate and breather assemblies. Even installation hardware is included.

Vance & Hines actually calls Southern California home, and all of the company’s air intakes are produced at its headquarters in Santa Fe Springs. The VO2 series of air

intakes for Touring models are included in CARB EO D-632-4, the executive order issued by the California Air Resources Board that declares these air cleaners meet emissions standards. It’s a short little addition to a product description, but it’s a big deal for California riders and dealers.

For riders who want to maintain a stock look, the VO2 Naked is the intake to go with. This design is intended to refit the original cover, giving a Touring bike a stealthy boost

VANCE & HINES

Vance & Hines has a broad selection of slipons for Harley-Davidson Touring models, and all of them are 50-state emissions compliant. The lineup includes the Torquer 450.

in airflow and power. The VO2 Cagefighter is ultra-light for riders who want to save weight, and the VO2 X, Blade and Rogue are for those looking for the ultimate in premium style with beautifully machined billet covers and standoffs fastened with race-spec ARP hardware.

Vance & Hines 4-inch slipons like the Eliminator 400 and Twin Slash Rounds sound good without breaking the bank.

Vance & Hines also offers its popular Fuelpak FP3 tuner in a California-compliant version. With its CARB EO D-632-2 designation, the Fuelpak FP3 California is ideal for tuning 2014 and later Touring bikes as well as other Harley models. Tuning a bike has never been easier, since the Fuelpak FP3 California connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to an iPhone or Android, allowing users to make adjustments by app. With this version of the tuner, adjustments will not increase vehicle emissions. The included maps either qualify as CARB replacement parts or have gotten one of those CARB EO numbers. Users can easily tune features like throttle progressivity for throttle-by-wire models and engine rev limit. Other tuning parameters are only limited to adjustment in higher rpm and throttle position ranges. Other features of the Fuelpak FP3 California include the ability to view rpm, engine temperature, battery voltage and more. Fuel economy is automatically calculated, as are horsepower and torque estimations. Diagnostic trouble codes can be read and cleared, too.

Vance & Hines has a broad selection of slip-ons for Harley Touring models, and all of them are 50-state emissions compliant. The Torquer 450 has a huge muffler size of 4½ inches. M8 riders who can’t choose between chrome or black can go for both with the new machine-cut black finish. Maximizing horsepower and giving a Touring bike a deep, throaty sound is another option thanks to the Hi-Output slip-on. The stepped muffler and aggressive lines of this option amp up both style and performance, but it plays nice with saddlebags and extended skirts. Harley riders know that a bike’s sound is important, no matter what state you’re in. Vance & Hines designed 4-inch slip-ons like the Eliminator 400 and Twin Slash Rounds to sound good without breaking the bank. Then again, it’s also nice to hear the stereo during a ride, so sometimes a smoother sound like the one generated with the 4-inch Monster Round slip-on is better. It’s all about what a customer wants to hear on the road. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep about all of the Vance & Hines

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50-state emissions-compliant performance products for Harley Touring models or take a look in the FatBook.

AUGUST 2021

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

HORNS & LED LIGHTING

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Designed for Decibels An Attention-Grabbing Air Horn

the factory antenna is removed or relocated. Each unit contains 40 red LEDs behind a faceted lens, resulting in a smooth, bright red glow. Custom Dynamics includes a dual-intensity option, pairing a dim red running light with a highintensity function. By installing the Plugz lights with a model-specific wiring adapter, customers can get their grommet glowing in no time.

Custom Dynamics’ ProBEAST is a direct replacement for the HarleyDavidson “cow bell” horn, and it cranks up the volume with an attention-grabbing 104.9dB rating at a two-meter distance.

t’s common for companies to inject new technology and design features into older products, reintroducing them to the market as something that’s more attractive than ever to customers. In the case of the ProBEAST dual-tone motorcycle horn from Custom Dynamics, the product isn’t just better – it’s a lot louder, too. The ProBEAST is the next level of sound and style, following the success of the Custom Dynamics MiniBeast. The ProBEAST is a direct replacement for the Harley-Davidson “cow bell” horn, and it cranks up the volume with an attentiongrabbing 104.9dB rating at a two-meter distance. The dual-tone air horn, like most Custom Dynamics products, is a simple plug-and-play design with an included wiring harness. Just mount the ProBEAST via the heavy-gauge bracket, make a few wire connections and let everyone hear the beast roar. The ProBEAST is completely enclosed in its durable ABS plastic cover, available in a black or chrome finish. Custom Dynamics offers a three-year warranty on the ProBEAST for sound that won’t give out. Custom Dynamics has been busy giving other products a makeover, too, with a big focus on lighting. Thanks to the latest in LED technology, products like the Plugz Antenna Grommet Lights, Plasma Rods and a series of front fairing products have gotten an update in both lighting technology and style. The Plugz Antenna Grommet Lights are a direct OEM replacement, ideal for using when

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Custom Dynamics designed the Plug-and-Play Plasma Rods to mount just about anywhere, on any type of motorcycle, but they are ideal when mounted between Harley Touring-model saddlebags and the fender or filler panel. Not only do they close the gap, but they provide a big visibility upgrade to the back end of the bike. The patented LED technology produces a bright, smooth light output when on, but the rods with a smoke lens are nearly impossible to spot when the lights are off. Custom Dynamics has four sizes available, including the 8-inch option for standard Harley saddlebags, all the way up to 14 inches. Custom Dynamics has four upgraded dynamic LED lighting solutions for the front fairings, including the AllIn-One Batwing Fairing Vent Insert, Road Glide Vent Insert, Road Glide Windshield Trim and Batwing Windshield Trim. These products have all been redesigned with dual-color amber and white Genesis 4 LEDs for enhanced running light and turn signal functions. These high-performance LEDs provide outstanding brightness and visibility. Customers can pick a gloss black or chrome finish, and the parts are all plug-and-play. ■

» Learn more about the amped-up products from Custom Dynamics by talking to your Drag rep and by checking out the FatBook.

The Plugz Antenna Grommet Lights are ideal for using when the factory antenna is removed or relocated. Each unit contains 40 red LEDs for a smooth, bright red glow.

Everything to Light Up Your Ride!®

ProBEAM® Bullet Ringz™

Road Glide Vent Insert

ProBEAM® Adaptive2 Headlamp

Fascia Panel Lights

Saddlebag LED Latch Lightz™ ProBEAM®

LED Halo Fog Lamps

Low Profile Bags

Youngsville, NC 27596 . Toll-Free: 1.800.382.1388 . Phone: 919.554.0949

www.customdynamics.com

@customdynamics

ProBEAM® Taillight

Vector 3d Logo on Black

DRAG SPECIALTIES DEALER BUILD

S P E C I A L

F E AT U R E

Deadwood Custom Cycles owner Jason Mook (center) presenting the customized 2007 Electra Glide FLHTP police model to the Deadwood Police Department. The ceremony not only featured many Drag Specialties vendors who contributed to the project, but also Deadwood Police Chief Ken Mertens and Big Kenny from the band Big & Rich. The whole event was filmed for a future episode of Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage.

New Recruit

Deadwood Custom Cycles’ Top-Secret Project

P hotos by B uck Love ll

f you were to stop by Deadwood Custom Cycles earlier this year, you might have suspected one of two things: The crew at DCC was playing cops and robbers, or there was a top-secret custom-bike project in the works.

Truth is, you would have been right on both accounts. DCC owner Jason Mook and his team were, indeed, in the midst of a secret build, but to see it through they also had to keep the whole project on the downlow. Here’s the back story, and Drag Specialties and many of its vendors also played a role as this unforgettable scenario played out in Deadwood, South Dakota.

Once a decommissioned police bike with a salvage-title, the 2007 Electra Glide will now cruise the streets of Deadwood thanks to Jason Mook and his crew at Deadwood Custom Cycles.

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The story begins at an obscure estate sale during autumn of 2020 where Mook acquired an assorted collection of aging Harley-Davidson parts intermixed with some decommissioned bikes. Among the loot was a salvage-title 2007 Electra Glide FLHTP police model. Later back at the shop, a quick examination of the 13-year-old retired cop bike revealed the only real damage was found in its floorboard mounts, dinged and banged up enough that an insurance company had previously written the bike off as a total. It’s frame, otherwise, was as straight and tidy as a Kansas horizon.

For the minimal investment that Mook had in the salvaged Harley, the retired police bike was practically a steal. However, Mook realized that no matter how nice a revived and customized bagger he could make from the bike, its salvage title meant this FLHTP would hardly be worth the sum total of its parts. Then, one morning while enjoying a cup of Joe, Mook tuned in to the daily news as a television reporter gave an update about various protest groups calling to defund the police. That struck him as a shortsighted demand for America’s diverse society. An ex-Marine and ex-policeman himself, Mook understands that first responders such as local police departments defend members of our communities, so why defund them? “We should defend the police, not defund them,” said Mook. “We depend on them to help keep our communities safe.”

Ta king Actio n So, he decided to take action. As one thought unfolded to another, he concluded that he’d not only rescue that old 2007 FLHTP, but DCC would give the bike a new lease on life as well, restoring it to its former glory. Deadwood Custom Cycles would then donate the finished bike – complete with authentic Feniex police-response equipment such as the red and blue emergency lights and a blaring siren – to the Deadwood Police Department. However, Mook knew it had to take place on his terms. “Now this is Deadwood Custom Cycles we’re taking about,” he explained, “so it just couldn’t be a stock, generic police bike.” His plan began to percolate.

“Up here in South Dakota, and especially in Deadwood, we respect and appreciate our police departments,” Mook said. He added that the finished Bagger would have to be special in and of itself. “It had to be something that represents the level of motorcycles that Deadwood Custom Cycles produces, while still being able to execute its police duties,” he said. In short, the bike would be capable of performing all daily police work, ranging from such mundane tasks as parade escort duty and traffic control to participating in crime scene investigation if necessary. This bike was going to be more than just a pretty face – it was destined to be an equal member of Deadwood’s proud and historic police unit with a heritage dating back to 1877 when Seth Bullock served as the town’s first sheriff.

DEADWOOD CUSTOMS POLICE BIKE

Left: A large contingent of Deadwood police officers were on hand for the surprise unveiling of the custom Harley-Davidson. Right: When DCC’s Jason Mook put the word out about his plans to donate the custom bike to the Deadwood Police Department, Drag Specialties and a number of V-Twin vendors responded in droves. The rallying cry from Mook? “We should defend the police, not defund them.”

“I reached out to Deadwood’s mayor, Dave Ruth, to discuss the plan,” Mook said. “He told me that it had been years since there had been a Police Service Motorcycle in Deadwood’s police vehicle fleet.” That was about to change. Mook immediately reached out to members of the V-Twin community for support. “The response was incredible,” Jason said. In no time brand names like Dakota Digital, Feuling Parts, Paul Yaffee’s Bagger Nation and others began responding, confirming that they’d like to be a part of this project. Next Mook presented his idea to his Drag Specialties rep, Jayson Specht, and to Tom Motzko, product development expert for the iconic V-Twin parts distributor. Both men agreed the project certainly had merit; the flood gates were about to open. Drag Specialties’ family of vendors immediately and generously – and with no prompting – volunteered their products and services. Those vendors teamed together to put this once-forgotten first responder’s bike back on the front line. History was in the making.

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

DRAG SPECIALTIES DEALER BUILD

S P E C I A L

F E AT U R E

The revived 2007 Electra Glide is now practically a rolling FatBook. Take a look at the build sheet on page 43 for a complete rundown of all the parts involved in getting this police bike back on the road.

After m ar k e t Res p on ds During the coming weeks the delivery trucks made routine stops to drop off packages containing some of the hottest custom Bagger components on the planet. Boxes bearing names such as Arlen Ness, Badlands, Bagger Nation, Baker Drivetrain, Bassani, Dakota Digital, Drag Specialties, Dynojet, Feuling Parts, Hawg Halters, Kicker, Klock Werks, Lectric Lighting Company, Legend Suspension, LePera, Michelin Tires, NAMZ Custom Cycle Products, Open Throttle Customs, and Revolution Performance began appearing at the shop’s delivery door. They were quickly hustled into the back room and out of sight. The plan was to not let anybody in the police department know about the build. Mook and the DCC crew wanted to present the bike to Deadwood Police Department during a special ceremony later in the Spring. This focus on absolute secrecy prompted DCC to go undercover; nobody, with exception of Police Chief Ken Mertens (who, himself wasn’t informed about the project until 30 days prior to the reveal), within Deadwood Police Department would know anything about the bike’s construction. Much of the work took place after shop hours, making this a true sacrifice of labor and time among DCC employees who unselfishly transformed the bike to a true front-line Police Special in the course of months. The DCC Blue Crew, if you will, consisted of Jason “JD” Bauman, who was responsible for electrical; Kevin Moore to expertly fabricate and weld special subassemblies, adaptors, and such; Josh Stafford and Tyler Hartl teaming to painstakingly complete all preparation and final assembly; and local painter Greg Robley. The bulk of the custom, yet police-like paint work was done by Eric Malotke’s paint shop, Open Throttle Customs, in Muskegon, Michigan. The final look features Deadwood PD’s proud and traditional colors of brown and black.

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B i g U n v ei l i n g Through select channels, members of the Harley-Davidson Museum’s restoration staff got wind of the project, and after some careful and methodical research decided that this was probably the first time a retired Harley-Davidson police bike was ever to be put back into frontline service. The museum staff wanted to help with the bike’s dedication when the time arrived, and so Karen Davidson, great-granddaughter of co-founder William Davidson, graciously volunteered to represent The Motor Company at the planned unveiling. Suddenly the bike’s reveal was snowballing into something extraordinary. Yet despite all the attention the project was gathering, DCC succeeded in keeping a lid on the actual build in terms of anybody at Deadwood Police Department learning about it. In the meantime, Mook shared word about DCC’s Top Secret Project with his friend Big Kenny from the band Big & Rich. Big Kenny, who also hosts a new cable television show, Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage that features some wild and crazy builds, told Mook that the Deadwood PD and the restored custom bagger was a natural fit for his gearhead show. That’s when the plan for the bike’s unveiling took a new twist. Big Kenny and Mook agreed that DCC should make its official reveal during filming for a future episode of Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage (scheduled to air September 2, 2021, on Circle Television). With the air date confirmed, the television show’s production crew ramped up to film the reveal, scheduled for the last weekend of May 2021 at DCC in Deadwood.

What started as a simple gesture of thanks towards the historic city’s long-standing police department had metastasized into something really big, even monumental in terms of returning a former police bike back to duty. Of course, the entire police department was invited to attend, but they were told only about a special announcement during this Memorial Weekend ceremony that they should hear in person. And, still, only Chief Mertens knew the full story about the rescued FLHTP Bagger. The bike’s reveal officially took place at 2 p.m. that afternoon, when a proud Jason Mook fired up the bike’s old, but fully rebuilt and modified Twin Cam engine for its maiden ride before members of Deadwood PD, who had gathered at DCC for “something special,” as Mook simply told them. “They (the police officers) had no idea what they were about to see,” recalled Mook. “When we told the officers that this was the department’s new bike, their jaws just dropped.” Several of the department’s officers who actually hold motorcycle operator licenses took it a step further – this was their motorcycle, and each of those experienced riders expressed a desire to christen the bike into daily duty. In truth, this revived Police Special belongs to the entire community of Deadwood. To show their gratitude and pride, several citizens who ride have already donated funds towards new helmets for the officers, and communications equipment and service maintenance for the bike. Think of it as Deadwood Strong. No doubt, Deadwood PD’s new recruit will become a Black Hills fixture, especially when the annual Rally rolls into town each August. Above all, though, this special FLHTP’s presence shows what happens when an enthusiastic custom bike shop, teamed with the world’s largest American V-Twin parts distributor and its committed and patriotic vendors, steps up for a community and its dedicated police department. Clearly, civic pride survives and thrives in the town of Deadwood, South Dakota. ■

Deadwood Custom Cycles owner Jason Mook.

2 007 Har l ey- Dav i d son F L H T P CUSTOMIZED BY DEADWOOD CUSTOM CYCLES • DEADWOOD, SOUTH DAKOTA CHASSIS Bagger Nation 1˝ Dresser Yaxle with Black Yafterburner Caps Bagger Nation 2 X Wedgy Shift Peg, Black Bagger Nation Wedgy Footboard, Black Bagger Nation Wedgy Brake Pedal, Superbling with Black Rubber Bagger Nation Yafterburner Saddlebag Latch Kit, Black Bagger Nation Yafterburner 6.25˝ Slider Covers, Black Bagger Nation OEM Fuel Tank & Fuel Pump Assembly Drag Specialties FLT ’99-08 Saddlebag to Fender Support Bracket, Black Drag Specialties FLHX ’04-08 Saddlebag Support Brackets, Chrome Drag Specialties FLHT ’96-13 Outer Fairing Shell Drag Specialties FL ’93-13 OEM Style RH Saddlebag Lid Drag Specialties FL ’93-13 OEM Style LH Saddlebag Lid Drag Specialties Touring ’93-13 RH Extended Saddlebag, Black Drag Specialties Touring ‘93-13 LH Extended Saddlebag, Black Drag Specialties Touring ’96-13 Saddlebag Hardware Kit for Hard Bags Drag Specialties BT ’80-08 RH Saddlebag Rail Support Drag Specialties BT ’80-08 LH Saddlebag Rail Support Drag Specialties 41mm Fork Slider Rebuild Kit Drag Specialties BT ’60-19 Neck Post Bearing & Race Kit Drag Specialties BT ’00-07 Wheel Bearing Kit Drag Specialties BT ’02-20 Swing Arm Bearing Set Drag Specialties 2 X BT ’86-08 Swing Arm Isolator Mount Klock Werks Benchmark Frenched Rear Fender - Steel, Black Klock Werks Benchmark Bagger Front Fender Blocks, Satin Klock Werks Benchmark Front Fender, 16˝-18˝ - Steel, Black Klock Werks Lower Saddlebag Filler Panel - Smooth, Steel Klock Werks Curvaceous Upper Fillers Smooth Klock Werks FLHT ’96-13 Flare Windshield 6.5˝, Smoke Klock Werks Benchmark Stretched Rear Fender Lighted License Plate Frame, Chrome Legend Suspension Standard 41MM Axeo Fork Spring Cartridge Legend Suspension Revo-A 12˝ Black Rear Suspension LePera FLHX ’06-07 Bare Bones Solo Seat Michelin Commander III – Front MT90B16 72H Tire Michelin Commander III - Rear MU85B16 77H Tire

Bassani B4 2:1 Road Rage Megaphone Exhaust System, Black Bassani Road Rage Mega Power Left Side Pseudo Muffler, Black DynoJet PowerVision License Feuling Parts Reverse American Flag Points Cover Feuling Parts HP+ Camchest Kit w/Reaper 543 Chain Drive Revolution Performance Stage 2 Heads Revolution Performance Rebuilt Flywheels Revolution Performance 107˝ Cylinder & Piston Kit Revolution Performance Custom Powder-Coating TRANSMISSION AND DRIVETRAIN Bagger Nation Wedgy Shift Linkage, Black Baker Factory 6-Speed Tapered MDG Roller Bearing Kit (TC ’07-17) BRAKES Hawg Halters, Inc. Dual Disc 4 Piston Calipers, Black Anodize HANDLEBAR AND CONTROLS Bagger Nation Racing Hand Control Levers, Black Bagger Nation 1˝ Super Riser Clamp Bagger Nation 8˝ Monkey Bagger Bars Dakota Digital MLX 6 Gauge Kit with Black Bezels LIGHTING/ELECTRICAL Badlands Original Illuminator Run-Brake-Turn with Load Equalizer, Static Bagger Nation Yafterburner Ignition Switch Cover, Black Bagger Nation Lightning Boltz Super Bright Amber LED, Black Bagger Nation 3 X Lightning Boltz Super Bright Red LED Running/Brake Lights, Black KICKER 2 X 6.5˝ Weatherproof Speakers KICKER 2 X Amplified Bluetooth Controllers Lectric Lighting Company Royal Flush 9/16˝ Red LED, Black Housing X 15 Lectric Lighting Company Royal Flush 9/16˝ Blue LED, Black Housing X 15 Lectric Lighting Company 7˝ Premium LED Halo Headlamp with Adapter, Black Lectric Lighting Company 4.5˝ Premium LED Spotlamp Kit, Black LLC-PLB-BB

MOTOR

PAINT/CUSTOM POWDER COAT BY: Open Throttle Customs, Muskegon, Michigan MSI

Drag Specialties TC ’04-17 Pinion Sprocket Shaft Roller Bearing Drag Specialties FL ’00-07 Motor Sprocket Shaft Spacer Drag Specialties 2 X BT ’99-11 Trap Door Retaining Ring Drag Specialties 2 X TC ’06-16 Transmission Trap Door Bearing Drag Specialties BT ’06-07 Inner Primary Mainshaft Bearing Drag Specialties BT ’06-07 Inner Primary Mainshaft Race Drag Specialties FL ’07-20 Kickstand Bumper Drag Specialties BT ’07-20 Kickstand Spring, Gloss Black Drag Specialties BT ’80-08 Front Heavy Duty Motor Mount, Black

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT (NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH DRAG) Feniex 4 X LED 4X Flasher Modules Feniex 4200 Mini Controller Feniex Titan 30W Siren Feniex Triton 100W Speaker Feniex Hammer 100W Siren Feniex 2 X T3 Surface Mount Blue Light Feniex 2 X T3 Surface Mount Red Light

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DEADWOOD CUSTOMS POLICE BIKE

There’s more: In addition to featuring Karen Davidson on the marquee, South Dakota’s Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden, would attend to make a brief presentation speech on behalf of the state. The reveal itself took place at Deadwood Custom Cycles on Lee Street in historic Deadwood. Many Drag Specialties vendors and affiliates – Corey Ness (Arlen Ness Customs), Christine LePera (LePera Seats), Paul Yaffe (Bagger ation), Brian Klock (Klock Werks), Rodney and Melissa Shrum (Revolution Performance) and Tom Motzko and Jayson Specht (Drag Specialties) were among the gathered crowd.

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SEATS

Selective Seating

Quality Never Goes Out of Style

Drag Specialties’ Predator III 2-up seat is a stylish seating upgrade that not only looks fantastic and cuts a clean profile, but also provides miles of rider and passenger comfort.

he now-infamous 2020 pandemic taught Americans many lessons, and one of the takeaways revealed the resiliency about our nation’s strong economy. Even a national lockdown couldn’t put a damper on how Americans spent their disposable incomes, and that fact was especially apparent within the enthusiastic American V-Twin community. Clearly, Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle owners love their bikes, and with the FatBook, OldBook and Indian catalog, Drag Specialties shoppers had plenty to choose from during and after the lockdown. Among the top sellers have been custom seats made by Drag Specialties Seats. Everything from affordable Solo Seats to the stylish Predator III line to full-on custom-made seats became hot-ticket items during the pandemic. The result of that year-long buying spree? In the case of Drag Specialties Seats, more than a few warehouse shelves eventually were laid bare, awaiting restocking once the lockdown was lifted, allowing production to be fully ramped up and in top gear for the 2021 summer buying season. The word from Drag Seats management to dealers big and small is simple and straightforward – place your orders as soon as you can to assure earlier, rather than later, delivery of seats for anxious customers. Of course, a strong work ethic has been a part of Drag Specialties Seats since the early days when the custom motorcycle seat maker was formed in the late 1960s.

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Originally known as E&S Coach & Saddlery Extraordinaire, the Minnesota-based motorcycle seat company offered a wide range of products, ranging from solo bobber seats to those unforgettable king-and-queen seats for longneck choppers. Business prospered, and in nearby Minneapolis, another motorcycle aftermarket company was growing at an even faster pace. That, of course, was Drag Specialties, a company selling a wide range of motorcycle products, among them seats made by E&S. By the early 1970s Drag Specialties gained ownership of E&S, and the range of these American-made custom seats expanded even more. It was during the 1990s that innovation using new and cutting-edge technology and manufacturing techniques began filtering into what eventually became known solely as Drag Specialties Seats. Seat construction methods changed over the years as did composition and mounting techniques. Soon, pre-formed polyurethane foam padding assured rider and passenger comfort. Perhaps one of Drag Specialties Seats’ more welcomed features was the Solar Reflective leather that, almost magically, minimizes heat build-up on a seat’s upholstery when the bike is left parked in the warm sunshine. No doubt, all of those features help sell seats, but the main mover is a seat’s styling. If a component looks stylish on a Harley or Indian, then, as far as the bike owner is

concerned, on it goes! And one of the most stylish seats for late-model Harley and Indian models is Drag Seats’ Predator III and Predator III 2-Up Seat variations. Both Predator III models come with all mounting hardware, 3/16-inch ABS thermoformed seat base with carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers, and molded polyurethane foam that’s covered in high-quality automotive-grade vinyl. Both seat designs include driver support – 5½ inches high for Predator III, 6½ inches for Predator III 2-Up. And, as the name suggests, the 2-Up model has a slightly larger rear seating section for passenger comfort.

Drag Specialties Seats offers both Predator III models for current-model Harleys as well as for Indian Chief, Chieftain, Roadmaster and Springfield models. They’re available in smooth or diamond pattern with single- or double-stitching using black, silver or red all-weather thread. Of course, additional coverings, thread colors and stitch patterns are available through the Drag Specialties Seats Custom Order Program. ■

DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS

Drag Specialties Seats also has solo options for both Harley-Davidson and Indian models.

» Talk with your Drag sales rep for details and check out the whole line in the FatBook, OldBook and Indian catalogs.

Originally known as E&S Coach & Saddlery Extraordinaire, Drag Specialties Seats has been manufacturing high-quality motorcycle seats since the late 1960s.

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

LED LIGHTING

Bright Idea

LED Turn Signals for Style, Visibility

hen it comes to new technology in the world of aftermarket parts and accessories, it is hard to beat the impact that LEDs have had. For such tiny little pieces, they sure do pack a big punch. LED lighting has transformed the possibilities for motorcycles, adding new ways to customize a ride and get noticed. Swapping out stock bulbs for LEDs can give an old bike a fresh, modern look that can be spotted in the daytime as well as at night. Even better, LED lighting has the rare ability of hitting three important aspects in motorcycling at once – they add style, sure, but they also increase a rider’s ability to see what’s coming, and they make a bike much easier to spot by other drivers and riders. As if these attributes weren’t enough, LED bulbs also have an incredibly long lifespan, so frequently burned-out bulbs are a thing of the past. With all of those things in mind, it’s easy to see why riders appreciate having options like the LED inserts and conversion kits available from Drag Specialties. A quick swap can result in a brighter ride and a better-looking bike. The Drag Specialties LED turn signal conversion kits are everything needed to update a conventional-style turn signal to a bright, modern LED one. The forty amber LEDs clustered on each board provide the bright light to let other drivers know exactly where a rider is heading. The front turn signal kits are dual-function, while the rear lights are single-function. Each kit includes a rubber insulating gasket and a DOT-compliant clear honeycomb lens. Customers who would rather swap the inserts rather than the whole assembly can opt for the Drag Specialties front dual-ring turn signal inserts. These LED clusters have a two-inch diameter featuring an outer ring of 24 white LEDs for a driving light and an inner ring of 24 amber LEDs for the turn signal. These lights are already exceptionally bright, but to make the turn signal even more visible, the white ring turns off completely when the signal is activated. Drag offers these inserts in both bullet and flat designs, and the inserts just need to be paired with a separate clear or smoked lens.

Drag Specialties has a range of LED inserts and conversion kits. A quick swap can result in a brighter ride and a better-looking bike for your customers.

Drag also has LED inserts that upgrade conventional 1156 or 1157 bulb-style turn signals. Available with amber or red LEDs depending on the placement, the lights are designed for maximum viewing angle, making them even more visible to others. Both bullet and flat styles are available. ■

» Learn more about the benefits of Drag Specialties LED lighting from your Drag rep and look for them in the FatBook.

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Insert Lighting Front to Back Increase visibility with Drag Specialties front dual ring turn signal inserts. Newly designed with 2” diameter GEN 300 Series LED clusters that are even brighter than the original. Available in bullet or flat lens style styles, these inserts feature an outer ring of white LEDs driving lights and an inner ring of amber LED turn signal lights. The white LEDs turn completely off for the entire turn signal cycle, providing greater visibility to the amber turn signal. The inserts fit signals with an 1157 bulb base and must be used with a clear or smoked lens (sold separately). Also available are amber or red LED inserts for OEM flat- or bullet-style turn signals. These inserts are a plug-and-play design and give a wide viewing angle when activated. 1156-style inserts are available in amber or red; 1157-style inserts are available in red.

FROM OUR GARAGE TO YOURS

Contact your Drag Specialties sales rep to learn about the entire line or log on to dragspecialties.com

DRAGSPECIALTIES.COM

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

AUDIO PRODUCTS

Traveling Tunes

An Audio System that Goes Anywhere a golf cart. Kuryakyn has two mounting kits available so customers can select the right fitment for their lifestyle. For example, a V-Twin owner who also likes to get off-road on an ATV can purchase just one sound system, plus Motorcycle and Recreational Mount Kits, then easily swap the WanderBar from one vehicle to the other. While it’s mounted on a vehicle, the WanderBar is plugged in via the wiring harness integrated into the mounting kit. Not only does it keep electricity flowing to the WanderBar, but it also charges the lithium battery inside. The battery allows approximately six to 10 hours of listening when the WanderBar is being used off the vehicle in wireless mode.

On or off the vehicle, Kuryakyn's WanderBar Portable Soundbars by MTX deliver an immersive audio experience.

The WanderBar Portable Soundbar is powered by an internal 35W dynamic/ stereo amp (2 x 27W RMS) that feeds six total speakers: two neodymium woofers and four teteron dome tweeters. Integrated passive radiators produce thumping mids and lows not typically achieved in a compact soundbar.

The WanderBar Motorcycle Mount Kit fits 7/8-inch to 1½-inch diameter handlebars or tubing, and can be used with or without the included plug-and-play wiring harness.

aking music along for the ride just got a lot easier thanks to Kuryakyn, which recently introduced the new WanderBar Portable Soundbar by MTX. It can be wired or wireless, making this compact audio system easy to take from one place to another, like from the bike to the campsite. Kuryakyn introduced this portable audio solution after the success of its Road Thunder line of hard-wired audio products. And when the team at Kuryakyn says the WanderBar can go anywhere, they mean it. The 10-inch and 14-inch options both mount easily to any kind of vehicle, whether it’s a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, boat or even

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One of the biggest features of the WanderBar is the Digital Signal Processor (DSP) inside. A DSP optimizes the performance of the speaker and delivers crystal-clear sound, despite the WanderBar’s compact size. The DSP also helps make sure that music can be heard easily, even at highway speeds.

As one would expect, the WanderBar is built for tough use. The all-weather construction is in accordance with IP65 rating guidelines. That means the tunes get out, but water doesn’t get in. For such a small audio system, the WanderBar has a lot of features. Of course, an internal Bluetooth receiver allows audio to be streamed from any Bluetooth-enabled device, but there is also an integrated USB charging port so those devices can stay powered up. Thanks to back-lit buttons, the WanderBar is easy to operate, even at night. ■

» Get the latest on Kuryakyn and the WanderBar by MTX from your Drag rep, and check it out in the FatBook.

AUDIOPHILE MEETS WANDERLUST • A rugged, go-anywhere portable speaker designed to match active lifestyles • WanderBar™ Motorcycle & Recreational Mount Kits sold separately (P/N 4405-0820 or 4405-0821) • Digital Signal Processor (DSP) for peak performance at all volume levels & any environment • Powered by 2 x 27W RMS, 2x 35W Dynamic stereo amp • Passive radiators for distortion-free mid & low range • Six total speakers: Four 1” teteron dome tweeters; dual 2” x 3.2” woofers • IP65 all-weather construction for safe use on a variety of vehicles

P/N 4405-0819 | 10”

WWW.KURYAKYN.COM

P/N 4405-0818 | 14”

PERFORMANCE PARTS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Deep Breathing Boost New, High-Flow Air Cleaner

S&S Cycle’s Tuned Induction Air Cleaner is designed to provide more than twice the filtering area over an OE intake system. Bolted onto a bike it will increase horsepower and torque across the rpm range.

odern V-Twin engines want to breathe, and they want to breathe deeply. In the quest for building a high-performance V-Twin powerplant, airflow is everything. It starts with a high flow air filter and ends with a higher-flowing exhaust system. However, when it comes to the factory versions of both, hot-rod hooligans and horsepower junkies are usually left wanting, well, more. Those stock air filters are downright boxy, and can be very restrictive. As with all things related to performance, S&S Cycle has a premium solution to those choked-off-airflow blues. The S&S Cycle Tuned Induction Air Cleaner certainly looks the part, and performs even better. The stylish unit features two laser-cut and highly engineered tubes that merge into a single collector that feeds right into the throttle body. The setup is fed by a pair of high-flow air filters that are placed directly in front of the unobstructed air stream. The end result is maximum performance for that engine and an aggressively attractive air filter that also happens to offer plenty of leg room. The Tuned Induction Air Cleaner is bolt-on performance that is easily installed and is designed to provide more than twice the filtering area over an OE intake system. Bolted onto a bike, it will increase horsepower and torque

across the rpm range using air column inertia and carefully time gas dynamic pressure waves – a 44 percent increase over stock. Its smooth intake tract of carefully selected tuned lengths help with that performance boost. The S&S Cycle Tuned Induction Air Cleaner kit comes complete with high-flow, washable and reusable cotton filter elements, as well as all the necessary hardware for installation. The Air Cleaner is available in Chrome, Gloss Black Powder Coat or in a Brushed Stainless Steel finish. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep for more details and check out the S&S Cycle product range in the FatBook.

DISCLAIMER: NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA ON ANY POLLUTION CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLES 50

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Tuned Induction Air Cleaner Kit for most HD models ®

• Gain horsepower and torque across the rpm range with a 44% increase in flow over a stock air cleaner • Available in chrome, gloss black powder coat, or brushed stainless steel finish • High flow washable and reusable cotton media filter elements provide performance, protection, & economy • Fits most Harley-Davidson ® models from ‘01-current

Scan for more info Made in the USA • sscycle.com • @sscycle • #sscycle DISCLAIMER: NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA ON ANY POLLUTION CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLE *Qualified Manufacturer Declared 49-State Federal Emissions Compliant Part

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

GLOVES

Heavy Hitter

Protection and Style

THRASHIN’s new Boxer glove features a full leather chassis, flexible armor and padding across the knuckle and double leather on the palm.

ince the day THRASHIN Supply opened up shop back in 2014, founder Lance Coury and his team has been hard at work thinking up innovative and original parts for your customers and their bikes. Along with a great selection of handlebars, foot controls and other quality made-in-America components, THRASHIN also has a growing catalog of riding apparel. The latest addition to the lineup is the Boxer glove, and it’s a knockout.

The Boxer is also available in black, white and tan.

THRASHIN’s Boxer glove was born from the desire to offer a robust, yet stylish glove for riders who are after a bit more protection. To that end, the Boxer is hewn entirely from genuine cowhide – both leather and suede – and features internal PVC knuckle armor to defend against impacts. To ensure the glove stays put and to extend its protective coverage to the wrist, the Boxer has a mid-length cuff with extra-long hook-and-loop closure system.

Leather has been a go-to for riders for ages, and for good reason. It’s durable enough to keep asphalt away from your skin, yet supple enough to be all-day comfortable and capable of breaking in to offer a custom fit. All this was in mind when THRASHIN designed the Boxer, which is why the team utilized a full leather chassis built from multiple panels for a precise, pre-curved fit. With a flexible PVC armor panel and light padding integrated into the glove across the knuckles and double-layer leather on the palm, the Boxer can take a beating. Brickhouse construction aside, the Boxer has style, too. The matte tone of suede paneling offsets the sheen of

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leather to create a timeless appearance. Meanwhile, details like the accordion panel at the cuff, the embossed THRASHIN logo and lighting bolt on the middle finger, and TPR logo badge on the back of the palm give the Boxer a premium appearance that’s immediately identifiable as a THRASHIN Supply product. To top it all off, the index finger is touchscreen compatible, so your customers can operate their smartphones without ditching their gloves. If black isn’t your customers’ thing, the Boxer is available in white, red and tan. Whichever color they choose, the Boxer is bound to be a hit. THRASHIN also has a variety of lightweight and breathable synthetic gloves like the Covert and Stealth glove, as well as insulated and perforated versions of the leather Siege glove. ■

» To order the Boxer or any of THRASHIN Supply’s other

products, reach out to your Drag Specialties sales rep and check them out in the Helmet & Apparel catalog.

THE BOXER GLOVE ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED FOR A COMFORTABLE FIT AND TOUGH ENOUGH TO TAKE A HIT. DRAG PART NUMBERS: #3301-4257 SMALL, #3301-4258 MEDIUM, #3301-4259 LARGE, #3301-4260 X-LARGE, #3301-4261 XX-LARGE

• GENUINE COWHIDE LEATHER • INTERNAL MOLDED FLEXIBLE PVC KNUCKLE PROTECTION • TOUCH SCREEN COMPATIBLE • SUEDE ON IMPACT AREAS FOR EXTRA DURABILITY • HOOK & LOOP WRIST CLOSURE ENSURES A CUSTOMIZED FIT • TPR LOGO, EMBOSSED THRASHIN LOGO & BOLT ON MIDDLE FINGER • LIGHT PADDING ON TOP OF HAND

www.ThrashinSupply.com

800-222-3400 I orders@dragspecialties.com

CHEMICALS & LUBRICANTS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Custom Blend

Oil and Additive Formulas for V-Twins

The synthetic Motorbike HD Synth 20W-50 Street oil is designed for newer Harley-Davidsons, including air-cooled and water-cooled motors.

LIQUI MOLY Motorbike 4T Synth 10W-60 Street Race oil is a highperformance, full synthetic oil delivers on both protection and performance, and is a perfect option for Indian Scouts and FTRs.

ot all V-Twin motors have the same needs. Since engines can be very different from each other, LIQUI MOLY offers different oils and additives, allowing customers to choose the right combination for the particular needs of their V-Twin. LIQUI MOLY has two oils designed specifically for HarleyDavidsons, the Motorbike HD Synth 20W-50 Street and, for older bikes, the Motorbike HD Classic SAE 50. The synthetic Motorbike HD Synth 20W-50 Street oil is designed for newer Harleys, including air-cooled and water-cooled motors. The formula is a blend of select base oils and high-quality additive components, which results in an oil that provides optimum lubrication, outstanding engine cleanliness and excellent friction in all operating conditions. The oil gives Harley motors a break from some of the normal wear and tear while also reducing operating temperatures. The motor on a vintage Harley might still be running strong, but that doesn’t mean it should be treated like any other motor. LIQUI MOLY designed its HD Classic SAE 50 oil for classic bikes that need a higher level of care. The single-grade motor oil is designed for high wear resistance and outstanding corrosion protection. In addition to extending the life and performance of the engine, HD Classic SAE 50 oil also helps quiet the engine noise for a more pleasant riding experience. When it comes to Indians, the big-bore models run well with LIQUI MOLY Motorbike 4T 20W-50 Street oil, which has

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the brand’s highest-quality additive package for a mineral oil. This formula provides reliable lubrication to protect the engine components and provide smooth operation in all conditions. It also helps the engine run more quietly. Indian Scouts and FTRs, on the other hand, will run at their optimal level with LIQUI MOLY Motorbike 4T Synth 10W60 Street Race oil. This high-performance, full synthetic oil delivers on both protection and performance. The excellent friction, cleanliness and minimum wear characteristics are ideal for motors that need to perform flawlessly in even extreme operating conditions. LIQUI MOLY has added larger sizes to its popular additives, which come in one-dose packages, to better suit the larger V-Twin oil circuits. The 250ml Motorbike Engine Flush is effective at removing deposits from a motor before an oil change, so the fresh oil will be able to perform at its best. The Motorbike 4T Bike Additive is now available in a 125ml can, efficiently removing deposits in the combustion chamber. After the deposits are cleaned out, the additive continues to provide corrosion protection to the fuel system. The 150ml LIQUI MOLY Motorbike Speed Additive is a high-tech combination of acceleration-enhancing, cleaning, dispersing and material-protecting additives. Motors will start easier and run smoother with this additive, and throttle response will be improved. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep about specialized LIQUI MOLY oils and additives, and read about each option in the Tire & Service catalog.

LIQUI MOLY USA, INC. 1801 E Edinger #255A Santa Ana CA 92705 E-Mail: info@liquimoly.us

Call us toll free: (888) MOLYOIL (888-665-9645)

www.liqui-moly.com

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

TIRES

Ready to Rally

Tires for Touring and Adventure

Michelin will be attending Sturgis this year, showcasing the Michelin Commander III Touring and Cruiser tires. There will be multiple booths setup throughout the area giving the highlights of these two tires built specifically for North American V-Twin riders.

nyone who has been to Sturgis knows that the weather in that region can be a bit unpredictable. That means riders heading to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will want tires they can trust to perform in any type of weather conditions. Michelin will be attending Sturgis again this year, bringing along its range of tires for attendees to check out. Among the many tires available from Michelin, the stars of the show at Sturgis will be the Michelin Commander III Touring and Cruiser tires, as well as the Michelin Scorcher tire range, which includes the OE tire for Harley-Davidson’s new Pan America, the Michelin Scorcher Adventure. Michelin will be setting up multiple booths throughout the Sturgis area, discussing the benefits of Michelin’s range of motorcycle tires for V-Twins as well as other segments of motorcycling. The company will also be promoting the sales and installation of its tires at area dealerships, allowing Sturgis Motorcycle Rally attendees access to special event pricing. Spending time at rallies and talking to the very riders who use Michelin tires is nothing new for the company. The Michelin Commander III tires were designed only after Michelin conducted extensive interviews with dealers and riders, spending time at shops, shows and other events to learn exactly what V-Twin riders in North America want in a tire. All of that feedback went into the performance and

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longevity characteristics that have become the hallmark of the Michelin Commander III tire range. The Michelin Commander III tire range is designed to provide both long tread life and outstanding grip in the wet. That makes the tires, available in both Cruiser and Touring styles, ideal for that erratic Sturgis weather. Wet-weather performance is achieved in part with the silica used in the tire compound, providing chemical grip to help tires stay put, even when the weather is bad. The tires also feature optimized tread designs that are excellent at dispersing water. To ensure confidence at any lean angle, Michelin designed the Commander III tire with a more rounded profile compared to its predecessor, the Michelin Commander II. That new profile optimizes the contact patch across the entire profile for a more planted feeling, even during cornering. In addition to its technical features, the Michelin Commander III tire range also keeps style in mind. The tires have Michelin’s Premium Touch Technology, a patented sidewall design that enhances the styling of V-Twins. The Michelin Commander III Cruiser tire is designed for even more wet grip and durability than its predecessor. Germany’s Motorrad magazine gave the Commander III Cruiser tire top marks for wet grip in its June 2020 issue after the test riders were impressed with the performance and stability the tire offered in wet conditions.

MICHELIN Rallygoers in Sturgis will also get a first look at the Michelin Scorcher Adventure, which was co-developed specifically for the new Pan America, Harley-Davidson’s first Adventure motorcycle. The Scorcher Adventure will be OE on that new bike.

For those long-haul enthusiasts – like a lot of the riders who will be traveling cross-country to Sturgis – the Michelin Commander III Touring tire is designed for Baggers. Even fully loaded, a Touring rider will enjoy enhanced wet grip and longevity that sets a new bar for Michelin’s cruiser tire offerings. Riders at Sturgis will also be able to get a firsthand look at the Michelin Scorcher tire range. This range first came about in 2007, when Michelin collaborated with Harley-Davidson to produce its first co-developed and co-branded tire. Today, the Michelin Scorcher tire range is a popular sight on Harleys, with many models rolling off the factory line with them. The latest tire in the range is the Michelin Scorcher Adventure, which was co-developed specifically for the new Pan America, Harley-Davidson’s first Adventure motorcycle. The Scorcher Adventure will be OE on that new bike. As its name implies, the Michelin Scorcher Adventure is capable of going off-road and on, allowing Pan America riders to go wherever the route leads. The rear tire has Michelin’s 2CT+ Technology, which features harder rubber

in the center of the tread as well as underneath the softercompound shoulders. That design offers better rigidity at lean, which translates to more stability when cornering, especially under strong acceleration. The front tire has Michelin’s 2CT dual-compound technology, with the harder rubber in the middle of the tire and the softer rubber on the shoulders for a blend of wear resistance and grip. This technology is combined with a new tread pattern and optimized profile to give Adventure riders the mix of precise handling and long-lasting performance necessary for that style of riding. Silica in the specially-formulated compounds boosts wet grip. On-road, the tread’s built-in Michelin Bridge Block Technology includes thicker tread blocks that are “bridged” with rubber to increase cornering stability. When it comes to off-road riding, the fully-grooved geometric tread pattern delivers excellent traction. ■

» Your Drag rep can fill you in on the innovative design and technology

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in the latest tires from Michelin. Find both the Michelin Commander III tire range and the Michelin Scorcher tire range in the Tire catalog.

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LUBRICANTS & CHEMICALS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Premium Performance

Oils and Lubes for V-Twin Engines

he riding season is in full effect, and as your customers rack up miles it’s important that they stay on top of their oil and filter changes. That’s where Maxima comes in with three different grades of V-Twin engine oil plus gear and chaincase oil, as well as complete Oil Change Kits that include everything needed for a fluid and filter swap in one box. Oil is an engine’s lifeblood, and Maxima has three V-Twin formulations to choose from to match your customers’ needs. The most economic option is Maxima’s V-Twin Mineral oil, which is refined from oil stock that’s pumped out of the ground. Maxima takes this purified stock and incorporates its own recipe of additives to ensure optimal engine protection. V-Twin Mineral oil

V-Twin Sportster Gear/ Chaincase oil

Maxima offers its V-Twin Sportster Gear/Chaincase oil that bathes the transmission gears and primary chain in a robust lube that ensures optimal clutch engagement, smooth shifts, and reduced wear. Oil may be the primary ingredient in an oil change, but your customers will also need an oil filter and a fresh drain-plug O-ring. That’s where Maxima’s V-Twin Full Synthetic Oil Change Kits come in. These model-specific kits include the appropriate quantity of 20W-50 Full Synthetic oil as well as a new O-ring and one of Maxima’s Pro Filters in chrome or black, all in one convenient box. To make oil changes even easier, Maxima’s Pro Filters have a nut welded to the end for easy removal.

V-Twin Syn Blend oil

Maxima’s V-Twin Full Synthetic Oil Change Kits include the appropriate quantity of 20W-50 Full Synthetic oil as well as a new O-ring and one of Maxima’s Pro Filters in chrome or black.

For added performance and protection, Maxima’s V-Twin Syn Blend oil integrates a quantity of synthetic, lab-produced, ester-based lubricant to the mineral base stock to enhance it. These esters help the oil stick to surfaces for better lubrication at high engine speeds and temperatures, while a shear-stable polymer system provides excellent film thickness and viscosity stability across all operating temperatures. On the top step of the podium is Maxima’s V-Twin Full Synthetic oil, which is mixed entirely from lab-made molecules for the purest and most refined lube possible. Synthetic oils are crafted with specific characteristics in mind, and V-Twin Full Synthetic oil is made to perform in the hardest-working Harley-Davidson engines on the road, including long-haul Touring rigs and high-performance builds. V-Twin Full Synthetic is Maxima’s best option for engine protection, even under the harshest running conditions. The crankshaft, pistons and cams aren’t the only engine parts Maxima’s lubes keep moving smoothly. For Sportsters,

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To keep your customers’ engines running strong, make sure they understand the importance of on-time oil changes. And for riders that appreciate premium products, Maxima’s V-Twin oils are an excellent option, with the Full Synthetic Oil Change Kits an even easier choice. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details, and check out the Tire & Service catalog.

OEM APPROVED SAFE FOR USE IN ALL MOTORCYCLES

Maxima 4-stroke engine oils meet or exceed the requirements set forth in your Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners manual. Guaranteed by Maxima Racing Oils / Made in the USA / MaximaUSA.com

SEATING

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Saddlemen is no stranger to racing or touring bikes, so jumping into Bagger racing was a perfect fit. Now the company is using the competition to develop new, performance-oriented products.

Lean Angle to Long Distance DEVELOPING BAGGER PARTS ON THE TRACK

hen Saddlemen first got involved in racing 30 years ago, it’s doubtful anyone thought that one day, the company would be fielding two Baggers in a new road racing series. But times change, and so do motorcycles: Baggers have evolved to become true performance motorcycles, and Saddlemen is determined to prove it on the race track. After testing the waters during 2020’s King of the Baggers race at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Saddlemen is diving right into the 2021 Drag Specialties Bagger Racing League (BRL) with two entries. The Saddlemen team will field a 2021 Indian Challenger, as well as the Harley-Davidson Road Glide it ran in last year’s event. The BRL kicked off its season on June 27 at the Utah Motorsports Campus.

Saddlemen's 2019 Harley-Davidson Road Glide is heading back into Bagger racing competition, this time with rider Cory West.

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While racing Baggers might be something Saddlemen couldn’t have predicted several decades ago, these days there is a lot of enthusiasm for the concept. As the performance capabilities

SADDLEMEN

for Baggers has increased, so has the desire to put them to the ultimate test to see who comes out on top. “What happens at the track counts for a lot in the performance world,” says Rob Schlueter, vice president of Saddlemen. “A lot of companies are interested in seeing what they can get out of these platforms, so naturally we’re looking forward to seeing how our bikes perform in Utah.” And, of course, it’s about more than simply testing the limits of a machine. “For some of these riders who aren’t from the sportbike side, it’s a chance to finally get on the track,” Schlueter adds. “More and more V-Twin track days are cropping up. There’s a group of people who are very interested in it – not just what the brands are doing, but also what they can do.” To help facilitate those tests of both rider and motorcycle, Saddlemen is using the BRL as a chance to develop parts for both the Challenger and Road Glide, including the Saddlemen Carbon Solo Seat. Since solo performance seats for Baggers just haven’t been an option in the past, Saddlemen’s is using its race bikes as test machines for future seating fitments. “It’s the first of its kind because it’s a solo seat that truly puts you in a position to better control the motorcycle,” says Schlueter, “so when you move to mid controls, it’s a far better riding position. We’re really excited about that.” The Carbon Solo Seat joins a host of other mods on the Indian Challenger, which comes ready to rumble with a 122-horsepower PowerPlus motor. It is also outfitted with an inverted front fork, a hydraulically-adjustable rear shock and carbon fiber parts that Saddlemen is developing specifically for its BRL entries. As with so many other parts that begin life on the track before winding up on a dealer’s shelves, the carbon fiber parts are being fine-tuned for a new line. “We make so much out of fiberglass that working with carbon fiber has been a natural transition for us,” Schlueter notes. “We’re changing a lot of our existing products to carbon fiber. It’s going to be quite a big line, and a lot of it is driven by being involved in racing.” While running both an Indian and a Harley is great from a development perspective, allowing Saddlemen to create parts for both fitments in tandem, it also presents its own challenges. Parts can’t be swapped from one bike to the

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Rider Patricia Fernandez is the newest addition to the Saddlemen Bagger racing team. For the BRL, she'll be aboard a 2021 Indian Challenger.

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SEATING

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

LATE BREAKING NEWS! Saddlemen tapped iconic builder Michael “Woolie” Woolaway to build its bikes. He ended up being named “Mechanic of the Event” at the BRL’s June 27th inaugural race.

other, for one thing. Another challenge of the team setup is that Saddlemen needed to grow its network of experts since a specialist for one marque may not be an expert with the other. At the same time, though, that need for an expanded contact base creates new opportunities and ideas that will help drive future development, which is why Schlueter views it as a positive. “Probably one of the most exciting challenges has been in developing an expanded network of people who specialize in the fabrication or understanding of both platforms,” he says. “Innovation requires strong working relationships within the industry and it’s been fun for us to meet new people as we work through the Indian build.” Of course, finding someone who is up to the challenge of tackling both platforms at once isn’t easy, but Saddlemen has proven that it’s not impossible. The company has tapped iconic builder Michael “Woolie” Woolaway to build the bikes. This is far from the first time that Saddlemen and Woolaway have teamed up. Saddlemen has worked with Woolaway on about ten of his custom builds, with Saddlemen creating a one-of-a-kind seat to fit the style of each build. Woolaway tends to go for a performance edge in his customs, making Saddlemen the perfect choice for

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a seat partner. In fact, racing has often been a theme in the builds that Saddlemen has participated in, including a bike that Woolaway himself rode at Pikes Peak in 2018 and a Honda-powered custom that was presented to Dani Pedrosa in honor of his retirement from MotoGP. With two bikes and a builder in place, that still left two very important roles to be filled – a rider for each bike. Patricia Fernandez will pilot the Indian, while Cory West will be on board the Harley. Since the Indian is the new bike in the Saddlemen racing stable, Fernandez is also spearheading the testing leading up to the first race, fine-tuning the Challenger as both the motorcycle and its custom parts are further developed. Fernandez got her start in racing in 2010, and during the next two years she won multiple championships, first in the amateur classes and then in the expert ranks. Toward the end of 2012, Fernandez made the leap to AMA Supersport, racing her first full season in that series in 2013. Just one year later, she received the SUNOCO “Go the Distance” award for the series. As the series made the change to MotoAmerica Supersport, Fernandez continued to compete. In 2015, she finished 16th in the Daytona 200 and was the sole female racer on the grid. She finished the race in 13th a year later.

SADDLEMEN

Not content to race just in the U.S., Fernandez began competing internationally in 2017. She has raced at Phillip Island in Australian Superbike and she has broken the lap record several times at the Ulster Grand Prix in Northern Ireland. In addition to her road racing, Fernandez is also a coach and Mad Dog off-road competitor. West found himself in the right place at the right time – he happened to be at a track day the Saddlemen team was attending during the off-season. Saddlemen offered West the opportunity to put the Harley through its paces, and he readily agreed. Not only did he impress Saddlemen with his speed, but he also started setting lap times that have been turning heads because they’re so close to those set by sportbikes – motorcycles actually intended for the race track, unlike Baggers. It’s no surprise that West was up to speed on the Harley so quickly after climbing aboard. As a longtime test rider, he’s used to getting acclimated to a new bike in no time. West actually started his career in dirt track, but after transitioning to road racing in 2000, he hasn’t looked back. West was the AMA Superbike Rookie of the Year in 2004, and he has seven national championships to his name. West has also broken several track records, including the Pikes Peak record for production electric motorcycles.

The Saddlemen Bagger Racing Crew. From left: John Sanders, Kris Echert, Michael “Woolie” Woolaway, David Echert, Rob Schlueter, and Tom Seymour.

During the past thirty-plus years, Saddlemen has been a recognized name in motorsports, participating in everything from Flat Track racing to MotoGP and even freestyle competition. For all of the performance insight that racing provides, there are other aspects that are equally important, like comfort and convenience. While racers may not spend a whole lot of time in the seat, most motorcyclists do. And although the BRL competitors aren’t packing their saddlebags before the green flag, touring riders need luggage options that are practical, durable and attractive. Most Bagger riders won’t be dragging a knee through the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca, but they will be putting their equipment through the rigors of cross-country trips, unpredictable weather and any of the many surprises that can affect a ride. Just as Saddlemen develops products on the race track, the company also develops products in the lab, where innovations like Gel-Core technology are created. SaddleGel is the integral element in Saddlemen’s Gel-Core Technology, which is engineered to dampen, divert and deflect energy from the road. Each Saddlemen seat is designed to conform to the rider’s body, reducing pressure points and eliminating the “hot spots” that cause discomfort. When compared to a stock foam seat, a seat with Gel-Core Technology enables a rider to comfortably stay on the road up to 400 percent longer while generating up to 92 percent less road shock and 50 percent less road vibration.

Saddlemen is using the BRL as a chance to develop parts for both the Challenger and Road Glide.

It’s important to road racing because you can’t go fast if you’re not comfortable, and it’s important to the many Saddlemen customers who want ultimate comfort on every ride. For Saddlemen, track time and technology go hand-in-hand to create outstanding products. ■

» Get up to speed on Saddlemen by talking to your Drag

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Specialties rep and find the company’s wide range of seats and luggage in the FatBook and OldBook.

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PARTS & ACCESSORIES

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Desert Hooligans

Racing Hogs at the Biltwell 100

fter finishing the grueling NORRA 1000 desert race in Baja, Mexico, aboard a well-equipped, bone-stock Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster in 2018, the ambitious optimists at Biltwell decided to host an off-road motorcycle race in the Mojave Desert near their SoCal home.

The Biltwell 100 was definitely a “run what you brung, and hope you brung enough” soiree.

Why would a company that makes hard parts, riding gear and luggage for Harley-riding customers endeavor such an outlandish thing? When your company’s motto is “Ride Motorcycles, Have Fun,” it’s easy to talk yourself into anything. It’s also helpful that Biltwell offers a range of products that can help convert an XL into a bike more suited for off-highway use. The Punisher and Mushman foot pegs offer a little more bite and traction for a pair of boots when things get dirty. Up top, a set of 1-inch Moto handlebars certainly look the part for building a desert sled. Tools and accessories are easily packed into Biltwell’s Exfil-7 and Exfil-0 bags – both ruggedly built for tough use.

If you don’t think Harley-Davidson desert sleds are a thing, think again. Ten percent of the nearly 200 men and women who competed at the inaugural Biltwell 100 were mounted on Sportsters. Pay attention, V-Twin shop personnel – the Hooligan desert movement is in high gear.

So, back to the races. Forty-eight hours after announcing the Biltwell 100 on social media, 150 riders pre-registered for the event. Eighteen motivated racers entered Novice and Expert divisions of the Hooligan class—an exclusive category reserved for Harley-powered desert sleds. The balance of the field included a range of bikes from vintage British enduro bikes to a number of motocross machines. On April 10, 2021, 184 riders and nearly 750 friends, family and spectators converged on the Football Field OHV Park outside Ridgecrest, California, for a weekend of racing and relaxing, Biltwell style. The course was a 25-mile loop over a wide range of terrain. Biltwell enlisted desert race-management specialists DP4 to handle scoring, provide on-site EMTs, secure federal land use permits, and do everything else required to keep racers and spectators happy and healthy all weekend. Depending on the bike class and rider skill level, each race was comprised of one to four laps. Competitors lined up behind a rubber band for a mass start, with the fastest men and women going first. The attrition rate was high in many classes, especially the Harley Hooligans. Five hours later, sweep teams were deployed to pick up stragglers. By sundown Saturday night, everyone was back in the pits for the podium presentation and post-race party. Biltwell’s mission statement for its first-ever desert race was “Good times, not lap times,” and the Biltwell 100 certainly lived up to its hype. ■

» If the success of previous Biltwell events is any indicator, more outlaw Harley desert races will pop up in no time. Talk with your Drag rep about the company’s product line, and see more in the FatBook and OldBook.

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New Bars, Clutch Cable Extensions

Fat Baggers, Inc. now offers hydraulic clutch extension lines that will work with its EZ Install Handlebar kits for a range of 2021 Harley-Davidson Touring models.

PARTS & ACCESSORIES

Complete Control

Drag Specialties is now carrying FBI’s new Flat Top handlebars in 10-inch, 12-inch, arley-Davidson updated several of 14-inch and 16-inch rises. Additionally, your customers can purchase the new its Touring models for 2021, replacing Flat Top handlebars with model-specific install kits included. hydraulic clutch lines previously found on several popular models with mechanical clutch cables. Doing so caught some aftermarket Like all EZ Install handlebar kits, the new Flat Top is available companies off guard, requiring all-new part numbers for in 1¼-inch 1½-inch tubing, both with 0.120-inch wall items such as replacement extended clutch cables that thickness. Finishes include Chrome or Black, and each kit includes all the necessary components to install the precise often are necessary for high-rise handlebar conversions. height for each particular model of motorcycle. According “There was a period of overlap from when Harley’s new to Fat Baggers, these kits lengthen the existing hydraulic 2021 models were released to when we were able to lines/clutch cables, cutting the installation time in half. respond with our EZ install kits for those new models,” said The new Flat Top joins two existing EZ Install handlebar Fat Bagger Inc’s Gary Chipp, explaining why the new part conversions – the Round Top and the Pointed Top. numbers aren’t yet featured in the FatBook. “Although it took time to gear up for our clutch cable extensions, what Perhaps the EZ handlebar’s most unique feature, though, we now offer Drag Specialties dealers easily fits into our is the large internal machined cavities at the top junctures of each bar, making it easy to pull the wiring harness popular EZ Install program.” through the bar bends. These large cavities allow for Chipp explains that it takes less than five minutes to install easier – and quicker – installations. the EZ clutch cable extension that is sold separately, and is also available in complete handlebar installation kits. The handlebars themselves are made using a patented two-piece construction so the bars bolt together via a They come in 4-inch, 6-inch and 8-inch lengths. solid clamping area for a strong connection. The twoIndeed, Fat Baggers, Inc. added about 125 part numbers piece interlocking design also means that the EZ bar’s this year. Among the additions are FBI’s all-new Flat Top dedicated and attractive packaging is tidy and compact, handlebars in 10-inch, 12-inch, 14-inch and 16-inch rises. further reducing space and shipping costs. ■ Additionally, your customers can purchase the new Flat To learn more about the EZ Install handlebars, talk with your Top handlebars with model specific install kits included Drag Specialties rep and check out the FatBook and OldBook. with the bars.

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Off to a Good Start

Replacement Electrical Components

lectrical components can sometimes be the most frustrating part of a motorcycle. It almost seems unfair that the smallest parts can cause the biggest problems. Take an ignition sensor assembly, for example. It’s such a tiny little part, but it’s so important to getting a bike up and running. Starter motor acting up? Relay switch gone bad? So much for the ride that was planned, at least until it’s fixed. Drag Specialties has a huge range of starter motors and related components. While some are direct OEM replacements, most give riders an upgrade over the stock system for more reliable starts. To make it even better, Drag has these items available for a full range of fitments. A quick glance at the OldBook proves it, with items like a high-torque starter available for bikes dating back to 1965. These starters have 15 percent more power and torque than an OEM starter.

rectify the problem. The high-quality components Drag uses help take care of a common issue, so instead of one little part leading to a big problem, one little part comes to the rescue. Having the starter working properly means nothing if the battery isn’t able to deliver. While Drag Specialties has several replacement batteries to choose from, healthy battery cables are just as important. Drag’s battery cable kits are another way to give a V-Twin’s electrical system a boost since the cables increase the starter performance by supplying maximum battery current to the starter motor. Each kit has all of the cables needed to replace the OEM cables, and they come ready to go with ¼-inch and 5/16-inch terminals. ■

» Get started with Drag Specialties electrical components by talking to your Drag rep and checking out the FatBook and OldBook.

Drag Specialties has a wide range of battery cables and cable kits that are a great upgrade over the stock cables.

A Drag Specialties high-performance starter motor, available for both old and new models, is another part that upgrades the electrical system from its stock setup. The 1.4kW version is technically an OEM replacement for stock and slightly-modified engines, but it generates more power. The 1.7kW high-performance starter is for highly-modified engines in Touring bikes, making hardstarting bikes a thing of the past. Another upgrade is the Drag Specialties starter jackshaft kit, which delivers more torque to the primary and is more tolerant of misalignment problems. Even with the benefits, the price tag still comes in lower than an OEM replacement. If the jackshaft is salvageable, a starter jackshaft repair kit avoids the need to do a complete replacement.

Drag Specialties’ 1.7kW highperformance starter motor is built for highlymodified engines in Touring bikes.

If a Harley-Davidson starter is acting up, a Drag Specialties starter drive clutch might be the exact thing needed to

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AUGUST 2021

High-Quality Primary and Rear-Drive Belts

BDL is now offering genuine Gates carbon X3N material for its rear-drive belts. It’s the same material that HarleyDavidson has used for decades. BDL also has an extensive lineup of primary belts.

elt drives have been part of a Harley-Davidson since 1981 when the Motor Company switched from a chain rear drive to a belt on the FXB Sturgis. Over the decades, belts have more than shown themselves strong enough for the job while also being cleaner, quieter and more efficient. All that’s also true with a Harley’s primary drive. But nothing lasts forever. Eventually a belt will need replacement and, especially with the rear drive, it’s not exactly a simple service. Changing a rear-drive belt can be a complicated, time-consuming job. For that reason alone, it’s important that any replacement-belt be equal to or even better than OE. Belt Drives, Ltd. has exactly that. BDL is now offering genuine Gates carbon X3N material for its rear-drive belts. It’s the same material that Harley-Davidson has used for decades. And with BDL there’s a full selection of lengths, widths and tooth-counts available to fit all the Harley models with a rear-drive belt. The BDL belts have high tensile strength and a robust construction built to last. Not only does BDL use the same, proven quality Gates material that Harley has used since the 1980s, the teeth on the belts have a slick surface that’s easy on pulleys and the outer surface of the belt is ribbed

DRIVE BELTS

Made to Perform

to help keep the belt flexible. The belts also have a high resistance to deterioration from humidity, further aiding stability and ensuring a long, strong life. When swapping in a new drive belt, it’s highly recommended to carefully inspect the rear-drive pulleys for wear. If signs of wear are noted – common on bikes with 30,000 to 40,000 miles on the odometer – the pulleys must be replaced. A new belt won’t seat properly into worn pulleys causing the pulleys to develop sharp spots that will quickly cut the brand-new belt. BDL also has all the quality primary drive belt replacements here. When choosing a proper primary belt, along with all the strength, length and longevity issues, for a correct fit the tooth pitch and profile must also be an exact match to the pulleys, which can come from different manufacturers with different specifications. BDL has all of that covered thanks to its extensive lineup of primary-belt replacements. No one looks forward to changing a drive belt, especially for the rear drive. Choosing a replacement here is no place to skimp. Quality and longevity count and BDL is a trusted source with a huge range of drive belt options. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep about the BDL replacement belts, and

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learn more by checking out the FatBook and the OldBook.

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HANDLEBARS

Reach for Something Good

New T-Bars for Dynas, Softails and Sportsters

The Burly Brand Dominator T-bars are available in straight or raked options, and in three available heights – 10-inch, 12-inch and 14-inch.

ome areas on your customers’ bikes are better candidates for customization than others. Sure, exhausts and foot controls are prime targets, but so is the bike’s cockpit. Custom bars help a bike fit the rider better, and just as importantly, make the machine stand out from the crowd. Good thing Burly Brand has such an extensive offering of edgy and high-quality bars, including the all-new Dominator T-bars. If those stock handlebars aren’t putting your customers’ grips in a comfortable position or maybe just don’t fit the style they’re after, then the new Dominator T-Bars from Burly Brand are a great option. The Dominators add a classic, yet aggressive, look to your customers’ Dyna, Softail and Sportster models. The Dominator T-Bars don’t just make a bike look good, they also help tune the fit and responsiveness of your customers’ bikes. At 29-inches wide the T-Bars offer excellent leverage for quick steering without being so wide as to cause maneuverability or cause problems when the steering is at full lock. That sturdy bar sits atop your customers’ choice of straight or raked risers that provide 4 inches or 5 inches of pullback, respectively. The T-Bars are offered in three available

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heights – 10-inch, 12-inch and 14-inch. That amounts to six different height and pullback options, so you’re more likely to find a perfect fit for your customers. Made from beefy, laser-cut and welded 1¼-inch steel tubing, the Dominators have a stout appearance that lends a sense of strength and weight to a bike’s front end. The bars are stepped down to 1 inch at the grips, so your customers can transfer their stock hand controls. They feature laser-cut slots to accommodate internal wiring for a clean appearance, and careful deburring ensures easier wire routing. The throttle side of the bars is crowned for electronic fly-by-wire throttle applications, but works with cable throttle setups as well. The 3½-inch on-center mounting means the Dominator T-Bars will fit 1996 to current Harley Davidson Dyna, Softail and Sportster models. Offered in a durable powder-coated gloss black and flat black finish, the Dominators are destined to become the centerpiece of your customers’ bikes, improving both the rider’s comfort and the look of the machine. ■

» For more details on fitments and to learn about all the other Burly Brand reach out to your Drag Specialties sales rep and check out the FatBook and OldBook.

Unique New Cables and Brake Lines

CABLES & LINES

The New Black

All Magnum KarbonFibr brake line and control cable coatings offer exceptional protection for paint and chrome. Magnum Shielding’s premium KarbonFibr brake and clutch lines incorporate PTFE tubing braided with DuPont Kevlar Aramid Fiber reinforcement, Signature Magnum braid, and a clear PVC outer jacket that will never discolor. Aramid Fiber reinforcement greatly reduces line expansion for high-performance braking. Every Magnum brake line is pressure tested and fully DOT FMVSS-106 compliant.

Magnum Shielding’s new Signature braid – KarbonFibr – is metallic wire with distinct black tone colors, blended and interwoven to imitate the distinct look of carbon fiber.

ntroducing KarbonFibr, a new Signature braid from Magnum Shielding designed to mimic the appearance of carbon fiber. The novel design is created from metallic wire with distinct black tone colors, blended and interwoven in such a way the braid imitates the distinct look of carbon fiber. This unique new black alternative braid complements black or blackout color scheme motorcycles and will catch your eye, even from a distance. Including Handlebar Installation Kits, excellent coverage is provided for late model Harley-Davidson Touring and Softail applications, as well as popular cables and brake lines for older models including Dynas and Sportsters. KarbonFibr braid products come with polished, black chrome fittings and all lines and cables match perfectly. Feel confident that the brake lines, hydraulic clutch lines, and control cables provide your customers with a precise, OE fitment. Their high-quality factory-style construction uses fittings, tube assemblies, and manifolds that provide trouble-free installations with professional looking results.

Premium KarbonFibr braided control cables feature matching Signature braid, durable clear coating, and are manufactured with components that meet or exceed OE specifications. The high efficiency cables are constructed with anti-friction inner liners, nylon adjuster inserts, and are factory lubricated for smooth, consistent, long lasting operation. Clutch cables also incorporate a waterresistant adjuster and a rubber seal in the transmission fitting to eliminate any fluid leaks. All cables have the built-in quality for which Magnum is known. In addition to the selection of individual brake lines and control cables that allows your customers to create a fitment tailored to the bike, the KarbonFibr product line is also available in complete handlebar installation kits. Each kit includes everything for a handlebar replacement – DOT brake lines, throttle and idle cables or terminated throttle-by-wire extensions, clutch cable or hydraulic clutch line, hardware, plus fully terminated turn signal and switch wiring extensions. The fully terminated wiring makes life easy when completing handlebar installations. In many applications the extensions are plug-and-play. These new products will really make a bike stand out in the crowd. Plus, for handlebar changes, Magnum’s easyto-install kits with DOT compliant lines are a real winner, saving the installer and customer time and money. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep for details, and check

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out the products in the new Skinny.

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PARTS & ACCESSORIES

Parts and Accessories A Big Lineup of Custom Products

ome may categorize innovative products separately from those boasting creative flair, but companies like Accutronix Motorcycle Parts have been fueling Harley-Davidson riders’ passion with an impressive blend of form, function and style for more than 35 years. Since 1985, Accutronix has been manufacturing high quality, functionally designed parts for Harley-Davidson right here in the U.S.A. Your customers don’t just love the freedom of riding, they embrace the opportunity to treat their motorcycle like a blank canvas and make it a reflection of themselves. The Accutronix team is familiar with this mindset because they’ve been thinking up product designs and styles sparked from that same drive since day one. If you look up Accutronix in the index of the FatBook or OldBook, the breadth of products listed is impressive. Among those items are forward controls and triple trees, which have been Accutronix’s bread and butter for years. Made in-house from 6061-T6 aluminum, the forward controls are an easy-to-install package meshing unique style with improved rider usability.

Made in-house from 6061-T6 aluminum, Accutronix forward controls are an easy-to-install package meshing unique style with improved rider usability.

Details do not go unaddressed under the Accutronix roof, incorporating specific design elements such as radius point caps to cover pivot bolts and using flat-head bolts for backing plates, all in effort of maintain a clean look. Accutronix forward control kits are offered for many model year Softail, FXR, Dyna, Sportster and FL Harley models. Well thought-out, stylistic function is evident throughout the entire Accutronix lineup. For example, their triple tree conversion kits put customization in the hands of your customers with several different combinations of rake, fork tube diameter and fork spacing width and finish across FXD, FXST, FXR and XL machines. Whether riders want to go with standard or extended rake, mid-glide or wide-glide, and want it wrapped in a chrome, polished or black-anodized, Accutronix certainly serves up options. The crew at Accutronix carries their rider-focused design throughout the range of products offered for V-Twin motorcycles. Many additional items are available in the controls department, including pegs and grips, shift linkages and levers, floorboards, adjustable steering stops and handlebar risers and clamp kits, to name a few.

Accutronix offers a range of triple tree conversion kits that offer several different combinations of rake, fork tube diameter and fork spacing width and finishes.

From brake master cylinders to saddlebag components to LED lights and license plate frames, no one bike will look like the other when given the Accutronix treatment. ■

» For further details on the complete Accutronix lineup talk with your

Drag Specialties rep, and take a look in the FatBook and the OldBook.

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AUGUST 2021

Performance Engine Oiling

A Must-Do V-Twin Modification

amshaft swaps are high on the V-Twin hop-up list, right after pipes, air filters and computer re-mapping. However, fitting new cams without upgrading the oil pump, camplate and lifters is doing half the job. Oil is the lifeblood of an engine, especially an air-cooled one, and increasing the flow, pressure and scavenging efficiency of a Harley-Davidson’s lubrication system will pay big dividends. The results are cooler running temperatures, a quieter, smoother engine, a marked decrease in blow-by and oiling air cleaners and, in Milwaukee-Eight engines especially, the virtual elimination of wet sumping.

Feuling has some great options here, a trio of Oiling System Kits to fit any budget. The OE+, HP+ and Race Series kits are available in Twin Cam and M8 applications, and starting with the OE+, the billet aluminum oil pump and When it comes to upgrading the oil system for Harleymatched billet camplate here are Davidson V-Twin engines, Feuling Parts has some great definite upgrades. It’s a combinaoptions that are a marked upgrade over the stock setup. tion that’ll deliver significantly increased oil pressure, flow and scavenge volumes. If it’s a pre2007 Twin Cam, Feuling’s Hydraulic Cam-Chain Tensioner Conversion can be part of the update. The OE+ kit finishes off with upgraded lifters to optimize oil flow to the top end. Moving up to the HP+ and Race Series Kits gets 6061 billet aluminum for the HP+ oil pump and hard-anodized 7075 billet in the Race Series. Both kits use 7075 aluminum for the camplates, a material 50 percent harder and stronger than OE. The kits come with HP+ or Race Series lifters, the Race Series featuring a full .200-inch travel with a slow bleed-down. All three kits include all the required gaskets, seals and hardware for a full installation. Riders contemplating a cam swap would be well served to improve their Harley and extend its life with a Feuling Oiling System Kit upgrade. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details and get more information in the FatBook and OldBook.

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P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

PISTONS

Affordable Performance Tracker Series Forged Pistons

As the name suggests, Tracker Series pistons are for engine builders seeking performance and reliability. Friction, a major cause in piston wear, is controlled using Wiseco’s ArmorGlide skirt coating to improve scuff resistance, making Tracker Series pistons a favorite among Hooligan and sportsman flat track racers, and street riders alike. Wiseco also addressed oil consumption by equipping each Tracker Series ring pack with a 3mm oil ring to improve oil control.

Wiseco’s Tracker Series pistons for Twin Cam, EVO and Sportster models, have brought affordable forged pistons to the Harley-Davidson market.

orged pistons, such as Wiseco’s Black Edition line for Harley-Davidson models, have always been considered high-ticket, high-quality items. Manufacturing forged pistons (as opposed to cost-effective cast pistons) is generally a more expensive endeavor. However, Wiseco’s Tracker Series pistons for Twin Cam, EVO and Sportster models, have brought affordable forged pistons to the Harley market. By incorporating proprietary near-net forging – a method that simultaneously forms features such as valve pockets and oil drain backs when the piston itself is forged into shape – Wiseco can produce high-quality pistons at a low cost to engine builders. A Tracker Series two-cylinder kit, complete with rings, pins and circlips, starts at an MSRP of $195.95.

Tracker Series pistons come in various over-bore sizes and compression ratios, too. EVO compression ratios range from stock 8.5:1 to 10:1, and Twin Cam pistons go as high as 10.5:1. It’s best to check with your Drag Specialties rep when fitting pistons for a modified engine rebuild, although standard upgrades are typically available using Tracker Series replacement piston kits for many projects. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for further details about Wiseco’s

Tracker Series forged pistons for EVO, Twin Cam and Sportster models and learn more in the FatBook and OldBook.

Contact your Drag Specialties rep and visit Wiseco.com or call 1-800-321-1364 for more info

Series Pistons

Forged Performance, Hooligan Price

• Proprietary Near-Net Forging technology reduces the amount of finish machining required, offering lower cost without sacrificing strength and longevity • ArmorGlide skirt coating reduces operating friction and increases wear resistance for a better performing, longer lasting part • Supplied in kits:contains pistons, rings, wrists pins, & circlips all under one part # • Ring sets include 3mm oil ring assembly, providing better oil control for consistent cylinder lubrication & reduced blow-by improving durability and performance • Available for Sportster, EVO, and Twin Cam models in various bore sizes and compression ratios

RaceWinningBrands.com

Smart USB Chargers

harging a phone, camera or Bluetooth audio device is now a big part of any motorcycle trip. While riding, it’s usually the phone that’s on charge as it often doubles as a GPS, but when parked other devices also need charging, all without killing the motorcycle battery. OptiMate’s smart USB chargers have your customers covered. The built-in battery protection makes sure they will be riding away with a charged device. OptiMate USB chargers shut off one hour after the engine has stopped. When the engine fires up again, the USB charger senses the rising battery voltage and turns back on, confirming your motorcycle’s charging system is in good shape. The battery protection works equally well on Lithium (LFP / LiFe) and all lead-acid batteries, including AGM. They charge fast as well – the O-100 portable USB charger delivers 2400mA and plugs right into a battery lead with SAE connector. The USB socket has a perimeter sealing system that seals around the inserted USB charge lead, guaranteeing your customers can charge in any riding weather.

With OptiMate’s smart USB chargers, your customers can always keep their portable electronics charged. They’re designed to shut off one hour after the engine has stopped to keep from draining the battery.

The fully sealed O-108N delivers 3300mA and is designed for permanent fitment. The 40-inch SAE lead can be routed directly to an already fitted SAE battery lead, and a 40-inch USB charge lead can be routed to a convenient access point. The zip tie loops on the USB socket makes for easy mounting to a bar or other cables. The O-108KIT includes a battery lead. ■

» Talk to your Drag Specialties sales rep about stocking OptiMate’s USB chargers. More information can be found in the FatBook.

BATTERY CHARGERS

Stay Connected

CLUTCH PRODUCTS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Smooth Operator

Clutch Basket for Milwaukee-Eights The Rekluse clutch basket for HarleyDavidson M8 engines is rated up to 200 ft-lbs of torque, and offers smoother operation, less drag and reduced clutch noise over OEM units.

arley-Davidson owners often share information about performance equipment they install on their bikes. High-performance cams and pistons, intake throttle bodies, and of course exhaust systems, generally dominate their dialogue. Seldom, though, do they mention the clutch basket of choice for their engines. After all, what’s exciting about clutch baskets? Plenty, if it’s a Rekluse basket for Milwaukee-Eight engines. Made of strong billet aluminum that’s hard anodized for a perfect fit, the Rekluse clutch basket is rated up to 200 ft-lbs of torque, and offers smoother operation, less drag and reduced clutch noise over OEM units.

The Rekluse basket is a rather straightforward removeand-replace item using proprietary hardware (provided) so there’s no drilling required of the OEM ring gear before installation. Moreover, the basket is compatible with OEM and other clutch plates, or it can be paired with Rekluse’s unique TorqDrive friction technology, a system that further improves the clutch’s overall operation. Indeed, owners equipping their Harleys with a Rekluse clutch basket can expect smoother and snappier throttle response because the clutch plates themselves operate in a smoother, more precise manner. In addition, the replacement clutch basket is lighter, creating less rotating mass. Even a simple thing like shifting into neutral becomes easier with the Rekluse clutch basket, confirming that a precise fit can result in quieter and smoother overall operation. The Rekluse clutch basket fits all Milwaukee-Eight engines from 2017 to 2020. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep for details, and get more info in the FatBook.

Luggage That Even has Space for Rover

t’s the season of road trips and rallies, which means riders need a way to haul along everything from overnight essentials to the pet dog. Nelson-Rigg offers plenty of Route 1 luggage options for Cruiser and Touring riders going on everything from a day trip to a long-haul destination adventure. The 11 pieces in the Route 1 luggage collection will stand up to the elements with no problem. Each piece is made from Nelson-Rigg’s proprietary Ultramax® material, which has such outstanding UV fade resistance that Nelson-Rigg even includes no color fading in its Lifetime Warranty. The Route 1 luggage pieces come with 100 percent waterproof rain covers, too. Other features of Route 1 luggage include reflective piping, convenient inner and outer pockets, and rigid construction so bags hold their shape when empty. Most pieces have expansion capabilities, too. For short distances, the 20-liter Daytrip backrest rack bag is perfect. For longer getaways, there are larger rear rack bags and saddlebags, all the way up to the expandable, 73.5-liter

Nelson-Rigg’s Rover mobile pet carrier features rigid construction and plenty of airflow for your customers’ furry friends.

Traveler tour trunk bag that launched the Route 1 line. Riders can pair their luggage with the Journey tank bag, which has a tapered magnetic fit ideal for Cruiser tanks. The Rover carries the most precious cargo, since it is designed as a mobile pet carrier. Rigid construction and a solid base panel are combined with strong mesh panels to provide airflow for a cozy, cool environment. When off the bike, pets can relax in the expandable mesh porch. ■

» Get your customers ready for the ride by talking to your Drag rep and by checking the FatBook for all of the Nelson-Rigg Route 1 luggage.

LUGGAGE

Take the Right Route

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Get Your Bearings

Specialized Tools for Tricky Tasks Motion Pro’s Steering Race Tool and Steering Steam Bearing Tool are designed for quick and easy service.

f your customers are complaining about heavy or notchy steering, there’s a good chance their bike’s steering-stem bearings may be worn. And while the bearings themselves are easy to come by, replacing them can be difficult. Make the job easier for your DIY customers or your shop techs with Motion Pro’s American V-Twin Steering Race Tool and Steering Stem Bearing Tool for Harley-Davidsons.

Drag Specialties 2021 Half Page Template

eed: 8.625 x 5.5˝ Motion Pro’s Steering Race Tool works to remove and rim: 8.375 x 5.25˝ install outer bearing races from the steering head using afety: 7.875 x 4.75˝

an expanding mandrel that grabs the race, a threaded rod that applies steady, strong pressure, and an aluminum cup that protects the steering head from damage. Rearrange the tool and it serves to press the new outer race squarely into place – no hammer required.

The harder part of steering-stem service has always been getting at the inner race on the stem itself. Put away the torch and chisel and pick up Motion Pro’s Steering Stem Tool and the job will go a lot smoother, with a lot less potential to scratch or gouge the stem. Like the Steering Race Tool, the Steering Stem Tool is designed to both remove and install those pesky inner races with a simple reorientation of the tool. As with all Motion Pro equipment, these bearing tools are made from high-quality materials that make them suitable for both home and professional use. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties sales representative for details and learn more in the Tire & Service catalog.

THE RIGHT TOOLS Easily Remove or Install Your Steering Outer Bearing Race Without Damaging Your Frame

STEERING RACE TOOL

REMOVING

INSTALLING

BEARING RACE

FOR AMERICAN V-TWIN Part art No. 3850-0488

2-in-1 design precisely removes and installs outer bearing race

Distributed by

www.dragspecialties.com

www.parts-unlimited.com

CONTACT YOUR PARTS UNLIMITED REP FOR MORE INFORMATION

@motionpro

@motionprofans

@motionpro84

Get equipped at MOTIONPRO.COM

Classic and Modern Meet in a Softail Seat

ome bikes make an ideal platform for customizing, and the Harley-Davidson Softail is one of them. The Milwaukee-Eight Softail blends old and new traditions seamlessly, offering riders a classic look combined with modern, capable components. The KickFlip seat by LePera shares that same mix of old and new, combining classic styling cues – like deep back support – with contemporary touches designed for modern riding styles.

The KickFlip seat by LePera combines classic styling cues – like deep back support – with contemporary touches designed for modern riding styles.

In other words, the KickFlip seat for Softails is ready to shred. That ample back support and a sizable seating area make sure riders are comfortable when they’re sitting, but the design also provides a platform for more adventurous riders. Whether a rider is putting on the kilometers or putting on a show, the KickFlip is up for it. The LePera KickFlip comes in Basket Weave, Diamond, Pleated Stitch and Gripp Tape finishes. That last choice is for riders who need an extra level of traction. Just like the Milwaukee-Eight Softail blends old and new traditions, so does the way LePera builds the KickFlip. LePera

ensures a modern level of comfort with Marathon Foam, which provides just the right blend of stability and comfort. Underneath, things are more old-school: the handcrafted steel base is powder-coated and carpeted, providing a precise fit that won’t damage the bike. LePera has been building seats that way since its inception in 1972. ■

» Learn more about the KickFlip’s capabilities from your Drag rep and check out the fitments for MilwaukeeEight Softails and other models in the FatBook.

SEATS

Styled to Shred

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

PISTONS

More Power

Pistons Kits for Twin Cams expect 11:1 compression ratio. When used with engines sporting 96cc MVA or Screamin’ Eagle Tear Drop heads, final compression ratio will be 10:1.

KB Performance Pistons’ slip-in piston kits feature everything for a bolt-in installation. They’re designed to increase displacement in Harley-Davidson Twin Cam engines.

arley-Davidson owners with 96-inch and 103inch Twin Cams looking to increase displacement to 110 cubic inches now have a quick solution, KB Performance Pistons’ slip-in piston kits.

The kits are available in Standard 110 TC 10:1 STD and Super Duty 110 STD configurations that work with aftermarket slip-in 4.00-inch-bore cylinders, with minor case modification required. When matched with an 85cc Bathtub cylinder head for 96-inch and 103-inch engines,

All piston kits come with instructions, pistons, rings, wrist pins, and circlips for a turnkey installation. Standard pistons are made of forged 4032 alloy and feature KB’s long wearing M42 skirt coating. The included instructions describe how to remove the small raised boss section below the bottom point where each cylinder seats. Removing this boss is necessary, allowing room for the longer piston skirts that each KB piston uses for superior piston rock control. Super Duty pistons have upgraded wrist pins and come with KB’s Type 3 Hard Anodized top ring groove and crown. To further improve sealing, and to control piston rock, the Super Duty pistons have KB’s unique LINE2LINE abradable polymer-based skirt coating. This coating lightly hones piston skirt clearance during initial break-in, resulting in permanent and ideal oil-film thickness. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep for details, and learn more about KB’s whole lineup in the FatBook and OldBook.

Here’s a way to make any 107” M-8 engine bigger and better.

Complete Super Duty M8 piston kits include pistons, UEM rings, pins and lock rings

KB’s new piston fits all M-8 models from 2017-up and easily adapts using drop-in cylinders, available separately from Drag Specialties, which means there’s no need to machine the engine case for additional clearance. Kit Part No. KB576LCA.STD

KB 124” Super Duty Pistons feature LINE2LINE coating with AST (Adaptive Skirt Technology) for proper skirt clearance at all times

• • • • •

Reshaped piston crown valve pockets to accept intake and exhaust valves up to 4mm larger Compression ratio of 11.4:1 using stock cylinder heads Type 3 hard anodizing on the piston crown resists corrosion from alcohol-blend fuels Anodized top ring groove eliminates micro welding of the top ring itself Improved wrist pin oil lubrication with direct oil feed from the oil control ring groove to the wrist bore • Heavy-duty .9270” wrist pin diameter fits stock connecting rods NEW KB Motorcycle Pistons 124” Super Duty M8 Pistons Kits are available now from Drag Specialties. For more information, contact your Drag Specialties rep, or visit

www.uempistons.com

KB Performance Motorcycle Pistons Division of United Engine & Machine Co. 800-648-7970

Low-Resistance Plug Wires

t’s no secret your Harley-Davidson customers love their motorcycles, but situations in which they leave them stock are few and far between. Common, bolton performance mods such as intake and exhaust are great options, but spark is often treated as an afterthought. Harleys are standard equipped with carbon core spark plug wires that are simply constructed of carbon crushed into cord. While not easily affected by heat and vibration, their conductive ability diminishes over time. The team at Holley Performance has recognized the shortcomings of these OEM wires and set out to design and produce a performance solution with their ACCEL spark plug wires. During development of these plug wires, Holley’s R&D team found through testing that resistance in OEM Harley wires roughly doubled after just 10,000 miles of riding. Simply, increased resistance negatively affects an engine’s power because the amount of energy required to fire the spark plug increases. Over time, this continuous resistance increase translates to more workload and damage-prone heat on the coils.

ACCEL plug wires are designed from the inside-out to provide highly improved, durable conductivity and wear-resistant strength.

ACCEL plug wires are designed from the inside-out to provide highly improved, durable conductivity and wearresistant strength. A fiberglass and Kevlar-stranded inner core is surrounded by carbon graphite semi-reactive element, wrapped in heavy-gauge, stainless steel conductor with a conductive coating, all protected by a triple-layer of high-durometer silicone, fiberglass braid and 8.0mm silicone outer layer. This carefully engineered and tested combination of materials helps maximize energy with optimum resistance for efficient spark that promotes lasting performance. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for details and learn more in the FatBook and in the OldBook.

PLUG WIRES

Spark Specialists

BRAKE ROTORS

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Science, Steel and Stopping

A Show-Worthy Rotor for Performance Braking

here is a lot of science that goes into a brake rotor, but Galfer is the brand that actually shows off the science. The CUBIQ® rotor for V-Twins has eye-catching hexagon styling that was designed like that for a lot more than just the dramatic look. For one thing, the rotor resembles the crystalline structure of a steel molecule. The angular design of the CUBIQ rotor is also carefully engineered to provide optimal braking performance. Using the latest technology, Galfer engineers created a rotor design with an ideal mass-heat dissipation ratio to enhance cooling. The result is Galfer’s lightest, highestperforming rotor to date. V-Twin riders are already familiar with the popular Galfer WAVE® rotor, and the CUBIQ rotor is the next step in that style’s evolution. The CUBIQ rotor is designed to be just as capable as the modern V-Twins they are built for, meaning it is a high-performance, predictable rotor that gives V-Twin riders ultimate confidence in their braking setup. Of course, the CUBIQ rotors don’t just resemble steel molecules, they’re actually laser-cut from a proprietary alloy

Galfer’s dramatically styled CUBIQ rotors are designed for optimal performance and a unique look. It is the company’s lightest and highestperforming rotor.

of unrecycled 420 stainless steel and parallel double-disc ground to ensure absolute precision. The design and the steel combine to create a rotor with outstanding cooling properties as well as reduced weight compared to OEM rotors. In all, the CUBIQ rotor is a high-performance brake rotor that stops precisely and consistently, while also improving maneuverability thanks to the reduced weight. ■

» Get more details about Galfer CUBIQ rotors for V-Twins from your Drag rep and check the FatBook for all applications.

Heated Grips for Toasty Hands

lthough we’re in the heat of the summer riding season, prudent motorcycle dealers look down the road towards the chilly riding days of autumn and winter that await. Next order of business is to shift their inventories to include cold-weather gear and accessories, and among winter’s hot-selling items are Avon Grips’ stylish heated handgrips for Harley-Davidson models. In fact, most of Avon Grips’ popular conventional styles, including Air Cushion, Custom Contour and Velvet Air models, are available in heated versions, too. Finishes come in either anodize or chrome, with end-cap choices that include the popular Boss, Excalibur, Gatlin, Rival, Spike, and Super Sport models. Installation is simple, and every Heated Grips kit includes an easy-to-follow wiring diagram. Power for all Heated Grips is routed through a bike’s accessory circuit to prevent the heating pads inside the grips from remaining turned on when the bike’s electronics are shut down.

Avon Grips’ range of heated grips offer a nice touch of style and comfort. They come in a variety of styles.

As most dealers know, many of their customers also treat autumn and winter as downtime for replacing old or worn parts, or to change-out some of their bike’s styling cues such as handlebars. That downtime, especially when changing out handlebars, is also an ideal time for installing easy add-on items like heated handgrips, because labor costs can essentially be shared between the two products, keeping costs low for customers. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details, and check out available fitments in the FatBook and OldBook.

HEATED GRIPS

Cold Comfort

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

BRAKE PADS

Better Braking

The Sintered-Metallic Upgrade From Dynas to Touring bikes, and Softails to Sportsters, DP Brakes has high-performance, long-lasting, sinteredmetallic pads for them all.

P Brakes has been a major player in the motorcycle aftermarket for decades, ever since the British government commissioned the company to bring the all-weather performance of their aviation application sintered-metallic brake pads to motorcycling. Over the years DP has focused on sintered-metallic brake pads, too, and the performance, benefits and features of those pads have jumped by leaps and bounds. Applications have expanded, as well, with coverage for virtually every Harley-Davidson model. From Dynas to Touring bikes, and Softails to Sportsters, DP Brakes has high-performance, long-lasting,

sintered-metallic pads for them all. Upgraded DP brake pads are also available for all popular aftermarket calipers, a range that includes GMA/BDL, Hawg Halters, and Performance Machine. DP is even OEM with Arlen Ness, Hawg Halters and Performance Machine. By switching to DP pads stopping distances get shorter, brake feel becomes more controlled and the pad’s ceramic heat shields protect against fade. There’s also no squeal and, because they operate as cleanly as they do, there’s no messy dust on the wheels and calipers. The most popular pick, the DP Standards, deliver their DP performance with an extended service life – up to three times longer than OE. For aggressive, sport-oriented riders there are the SDP pads, the Drag Specialties Premiums by DP and the RDP Racing pads, recommended for track use only. Also long lasting, they all feature HH+ frictionmaterial for a strong initial bite with consistent, powerful, controllable performance with low lever effort. ■

» DP brake pads are always in stock at Drag Specialties. Talk with your

rep for details and get more information in the FatBook and OldBook.

The Official Tire of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip

his August, thousands of V-Twin riders will load up and ride to Sturgis, with many of them making the Sturgis Buffalo Chip their target destination. Continental Motorcycle Tire Division has renewed its partnership with the legendary venue, making the ContiTour tire for V- Twin bikes the Official Tire of Sturgis Buffalo Chip. “Continental Tire brings passion, innovative products and comprehensive vision to their marketing within the V-Twin motorcycle community,” said Sturgis Buffalo Chip President Rod Woodruff. “All of us at the Chip are proud to help quality brand partners like Continental achieve their goals of reaching millions of well-qualified motorcycle consumers during our festival and on a year-round basis.” The ContiTour has been completely redesigned, and the compound now includes Continental’s MileagePlus technology, which offers improved durability while

Thanks to the 60-day Rider Satisfaction Guarantee, now is a great time for your customers to try a set of the redesigned ContiTour tires.

maintaining exceptional handling. Designed for heavier models and high mileage, the ContiTour features Continental’s MaxComfort for a smooth ride while maintaining the correct tire shape and balance over long distances, even when the bike is fully loaded. If it rains, the tread pattern provides efficient drainage for continued grip.

All of that means packing up and heading to Sturgis will be no problem for a rider on ContiTour tires. Amid the concerts, racing, and other heart-pounding events at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, Continental will be on the scene to introduce riders to its tires and the 60-Day Rider Satisfaction Guarantee for the ContiTour. Customers who purchase a new set of ContiTour tires from an authorized dealer and aren’t completely satisfied with their tires can return them within 60 days or within 2/32-inch tread use for a refund. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep about ContiTour tires and find them in the Tire & Service catalog.

TIRES

Getting Riders to the Show

PA R T S

D E PA R T M E N T

DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS LARGE SMOOTH CONVERTIBLE EZ GLIDE II™ BACKREST WITH BUILT-IN RAIN COVER Fits in a Drag Specialties Seats internal EZ Glide system that features no metalto-metal contact with the backrest detent bars; bars are securely suspended in place using synthetic composites that virtually eliminate corrosion and wear Features a detent bar with multiple detents on lower portion for adjustability up and down within the seat Chrome-plated hardware that allows up to 2˝ of forward-rearward adjustment Backrest includes a built-in rain cover that pulls out of the pouch on the backside of the pad and covers the entire seat Rain cover is secured in the pouch by two snaps and can be removed for cleaning or to use the oversized pouch for additional storage Rain-resistant black cover is 300 x 300 denier polyester fabric with a urethane coating and WRMR (water-resistant, mildew-resistant) finish All exposed hardware is polished with a chrome finish; internal base is 14 gauge steel Pad pivots to the angle of your back and adjusts fore and aft up to 2˝ Measures 10˝ W x 7½˝ H Made in the U.S.A

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PART # SUG. RETAIL

0822-0460 $259.95

DRAG SPECIALTIES PISTON KITS OEM-quality cast aluminum alloy construction Feature pistons with a coating that extends piston life, reduces friction and allows for cooler running engines Ideal for OEM replacement Economical with great performance, all in one package Kits include two pistons, wrist pins and clips Accept OEM or Hastings rings (must be ordered separately)

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PART # DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL FOR 17-20 M-EIGHT 114˝ MOTORS (COATED PISTONS, 10.5:1 COMPRESSION RATIO; 4.000˝ BORE) 0911-0053 Std. $115.95 0911-0054 +.005˝ 115.95 0911-0055 +.010˝ 115.95 0911-0056 +.020˝ 115.95

MATTE BLACK SWITCH HOUSING KIT Die-cast aluminum switch housings have radiused edges, OEM-style clamps, smooth tops and a matte black finish Accepts OEM style switches and wiring Switches available separately Master cylinders accept OEM-style rebuild kits and have clearance for all 1 ¼˝ handlebars

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NOTE: Models with dealer-installed cruise control may require different or additional lower switch housings. Upper and lower switch housings are not compatible with OEM housings. PART # 0616-0353

DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL For 82-95 Big Twin (except Dresser models w/ audio controls) and 82-85 XL $67.95

DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

★

AUGUST 2021

DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS HEAVY-DUTY INNER FAIRING SUPPORT BRACKETS Made with thick 13-gauge steel for increased strength Zinc-plated for superior rust resistance Ideal for use on bikes with upgraded speakers and/or amps Sold as a set

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PART # 2330-0238

DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL For 96-13 FLHT/FLHX; repl. OEM #s 58938-96C, 58939-96C $39.95

KHROME WERKS SISSY BAR SIDE PLATES Steel side plates available with a chrome-plated or gloss black powdercoated finish Docking hardware is not included; uses standard H-D detachable docking hardware Accepts any round or square 11˝ W Khrome Werks sissy bar Made in the U.S.A.

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PART # DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL FOR 09-21 FLHT/FLHR/FLHX/FLTR W/ DETACHABLE DOCKING HARDWARE 1504-0104 Chrome $179.95 1504-0105 Black 179.95

LOS ANGELES CHOPPERS ULTRA T-BAR ADAPTERS Machined out of solid billet aluminum Bolts directly to triple tree, allows for the installation of taller risers in addition to T-bars Adapter moves the handlebar 2.5˝ towards the rider and raises the handlebar up 1˝ No modifications to the screen are necessary Available in raw aluminum or black anodized

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NOTE: Requires removal or relocation of ignition switch and removal or modification of front dash panel. PART # DESCRIPTION FOR 95-20 FLHT/FLHR/FLTR/FLHX MODELS 0603-1032 Black 0603-1033 Raw aluminum

SUG. RETAIL $164.95 164.95

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AUGUST 2021

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DRAG SPECIALTIES MAGAZINE

PA R T S

D E PA R T M E N T

CUSTOM DYNAMICS DYNAMIC AMBER/WHITE LED MIRRORS Two rows of forward-facing bright white/amber LEDs behind a smoke lens White DRL LEDs automatically deactivated when the turn signal lamp or hazard warning lamp is activated Built-in rear-facing red LEDs, also behind a smoked lens, can be wired to illuminate as turn signal or brake light Mirror head dimensions: 5 1/8˝ wide x 2 9/16˝ tall Mirror stems position heads 2 1/2˝ out and 5 1/2˝ above mounting location Wires concealed in mounting stem Requires 5/16˝ mounting hole Mounting hardware included DOT compliant mirror glass

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PART # DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL 0640-1456 Chrome $199.95 0640-1457 Black 199.95

SADDLEMEN DXT SADDLEBAGS Dual-compartment bags provide ample packing room for short and long rides Expandable, sleek design UV-, water- and weather-resistant 1680D construction Classic sport touring look and shape Each bag expands from 1,890 to 3,150 cubic inches of storage space Sold in pairs

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PART # SUG. RETAIL

3501-1776 $400.00

PREDATOR III SEAT FOR SPORTSTER MODELS

The Predator III seat features a 6˝ tall driver support with unique styling covered in automotive-grade vinyl. The molded polyurethane foam provides maximum comfort and has a narrow driver’s cut for better leg clearance.

Available in Smooth, Classic Stitch or Double Diamond stitch with black or silver thread. See the complete selection at seats.dragspecialties.com. Additional coverings, thread colors and stitch patterns are available through our custom order program.

Manufactured by Drag Specialties in the U.S.A.

seats.dragspecialties.com