Drag Specialties Magazine - April 2023

★ 2023 Indian Catalog Cover Bike

★ New Vendors ★ Performance Products

1936-2023

GEN² NEIGHBOR HATERS: 4.5-INCH ROUND GEN² NEIGHBOR HATERS: 4.5-INCH

GEN² NEIGHBOR HATERS: 4-INCH ROUND (BLACK)

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Don Emde • don@emdebooks.com

Editor: Dennis Johnson • dennis@emdebooks.com

Art Director: Morgan Williams

Production Manager: Jen Rose • jen@emdebooks.com

Copy Editor: Tracy Emde

Digital Media Manager: Jeff Emde

Design Assistant: Kristina Nystul Breaux

Contributing Writers: Kevin Bailey, Beth Dolgner, Don Emde, Dain Gingerelli, Ari Henning, Dennis Johnson

Contributing

Photographers: Don Emde, Scott Hunter/American Flat Track, Dennis Johnson, Tim Lester, MIC/AIMExpo, Todd Olson

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 © 2023 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.

April 2023 ★ Vol. 30 #3

ON THE COVER

» 24 Ready to Ride: Cobra’s Spring 2023 Lineup

DEPARTMENTS

» 6 Emde Report

» 12 News & Events

» 84 Parts Department

SPECIAL FEATURES

» 8 Remembering Fred Fox: 1936-2023

» 18 2023 Indian Catalog Cover Bike

»

»

Looking Back: 30th Anniversary Series

Spring NVP Product Expo: Show Report

PRODUCT SHOWCASE »

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

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

Thanks to an Industry Giant

in Janesville. Fred also wanted to help me and agreed to run ads in my magazine for Drag Specialties. There was something about appearing in magazines that really appealed to him. He was a great salesman one-on-one, but I think what he liked was that one magazine ad reached thousands with his brand-building messages.

With Fred’s support I was able to continue along, but frankly Motorcycle Collector was expensive to print and just breaking even was becoming the goal. Some months I didn’t even do that. Then it hit me that if he liked running a couple of ads a month, maybe he’d really like to have a whole magazine with ads and editorials exclusively about the fast-growing list of companies and brands that made up LeMans Corporation.

Sometime during the summer of 1993, I worked up a proposal based on a major on-board airline magazine for a publication that Parts Unlimited would sponsor. The idea was that from cover to cover, all of the ads and editorials would be for LeMans brands and products, and it would be mailed to all of their dealers. We would sell the ads to their vendors, write the stories, and do the production work. LeMans would send in the artwork for ads, photos, and details for the stories, and provide the dealer mailing list.

After starting the conversation about the magazine on the phone, we had a dinner meeting one night in Newport Beach. I had all the details on one sheet of paper and there were just a couple adjustments that he suggested to make it work better. With that, his words were: “I can’t say right now how many issues we can do, but let’s give it a try.”

Ifirst got to know Fred Fox back in 1978 when I started a job selling ads for Motorcycle Dealer News. Fred became one of my accounts and we would talk every month about what new ad he was sending in. What was a given was that Parts Unlimited’s ad always needed to be placed on the first right-hand page of the magazine. He knew that every motorcycle dealer in the United States would get the magazine and he wanted them to see his ad before any other distributor. Fred wasn’t the biggest distributor yet, but he knew where he wanted to go and was already on the road to the top. Fast forward through the 1980s when I was at Bell Helmets for five years with Fred as one of our distributors, and then my return for five more years at Motorcycle Dealer News. Drag Specialties was now a part of LeMans Corp and Fred ran multiple pages of their ads with us for both Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties.

I went on my own in 1990 and was soon writing and self-publishing some motorcycle books. Then along came Motorcycle Collector Magazine, a magazine I started about the antique and vintage side of the sport. I stayed in contact with Fred and helped him buy most of the antique motorcycles that are still on display at the headquarters

So, with a simple handshake, Parts Magazine was born that night and to this day nothing on that sheet of paper ever changed. The first issue was published in March of 1994 and quickly turned into six issues per year. A year later Fred called and said that Drag Specialties wanted their own magazine, and we filled in the other six months with Drag Specialties Magazine. Then in 2010, the new Parts Europe warehouse opened in Germany and yes, he wanted us to produce a Parts Europe quarterly magazine for them. Thank you, Fred, for believing in me and for all of your support through the years.

In closing, along the way Fred called me more often than I called him. I never wanted to call in while he was working on something more important, and I knew we would be talking when he had something that needed to be discussed. When I’d answer the phone, he’d just say, “Hey, it’s Fred,” and we’d catch up on what was going on. Those are the words I’ll miss the most. ■

Respectfully,

by Don Emde Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

At the recent AIMExpo in Las Vegas, I gave a toast to Fred at the beginning of the industry reception. Photo courtesy of MIC/AIMExpo

FRED FOX Remembering 1936-2023

by Don Emde

Fred Fox, founder of LeMans Corporation, the parent company of Drag Specialties, passed away at age 86 in Orange County, California on Sunday, February 5th due to natural causes. Fred was an industry leader and pioneer of the modern era of powersports aftermarket distribution and promotion.

He was the only employee when he started his Parts Unlimited distributing business at his house in Janesville, Wisconsin in 1967. In the years to come, the business grew fast, and he incorporated as LeMans Corporation. He soon moved into a large warehouse and many brands were added along the way. Some became suppliers for Parts Unlimited and also Drag Specialties, which he acquired in 1988.

Fred was always a hands-on manager who oversaw every detail to make his organization grow into the industry leader that it is today. He made the decisions to buy the land, designed the facilities for the additional warehouses throughout the United States, plus Canada and Europe, built a National sales rep force, secured leading brands to carry, and invested heavily in promotion of Parts Unlimited’s

“We Support the Sport” campaign, which has been active since the 1990s. He also served on the Board of Directors of Motorcycle Industry Council from 1994 to 2007.

A multi-year personal project culminated for Fred in 2009 when LeMans Corporation opened the Parts Europe warehouse in Trier, Germany. An all-new warehouse was built there with state-of-the-art order filling technology that results in dealer order fulfillment speed never seen before in the motorcycle industry. In addition to the Parts Europe warehouse, LeMans Corporation currently has warehouses in Sparks, Nevada; Ballston Spa, New York; Flat Rock, North Carolina; Grapevine, Texas; and Janesville, Wisconsin, plus Calgary and London, Ontario in Canada.

Since 2021, I have been working on a biography of Fred’s life that we’ll publish later this year. The book, titled “Unlimited. The Fred Fox Story,” dates back to the years when his father and grandfather had a business in Janesville, building custom-made enclosed racks for trucks to transport cans of milk from dairy farms to the processing plants in Southern Wisconsin.

The 2004 V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati. Fred is in the center with other award recipients after receiving a V-Twin Lifetime Achievement Award.

For many years, LeMans’ suppliers attending the NVP looked forward to attending Fred’s Q&A session where he would answer their questions.

After graduating with an Engineering Degree from the University of Wisconsin in 1958, Fred went to work in the family business. The young college graduate saw a brighter future, however, for sport-related vehicles and when the go-kart craze exploded in America around 1960, Fred built a prototype kart in his spare time with a chassis made from light, but strong, chromoly tubing. Fox minibikes followed the go-karts, then Fred created the Fox Trac snowmobiles, which became nationally known when he drove one to victory at the first-ever Eagle River Snowmobile Derby in 1964.

Fred then went on his own and built the present-day company which is the largest privately-owned motorcycle distributing company in the world. Those who knew and worked with him had an appreciation for his work ethic, and especially one of his guiding principles of business that he referred to often: “Always be fair with customers, suppliers and employees.”

Fred named Paul Langley to succeed him as Chairman/CEO at LeMans Corporation in the fall of 2021 and retired from full time business activities. He is survived by his wife Paula, sons Steven, Brian and Craig, daughters Teri and Lori, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews and his former wife Gloria. He was preceded in death by his two brothers Bob and Stanley, sister Jeana and son Jeffery. At this time, funeral services are pending.

The staff at Don Emde Inc. extend our deepest condolences to the Fox family and the entire LeMans Corporation. ■

Whenever Fred would attend the Sturgis Rally, Tom Motzko would have a bike in his garage ready for him to ride.

2014 NVP Night of the Stars. Fred with Jim Matchette, Jayson Specht (2013 #1 Drag rep), Rob Bluma and Tom Motzko.

Drag Specialties Magazine publisher Don Emde with Fred at Sturgis in 2018.

Fred and Paula Fox at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame in 2018.

Fred had sons and daughters, grandkids, nephews and his sister join him and Paula on stage when he received the Sturgis Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018.

Drag Specialties/Parts Unlimited

Welcome New Dual Sales Rep

Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited announced the newest dual sales rep for the Central region covering Iowa and South Dakota, Trey Crouch

Crouch’s industry experience includes parts and sales representation at the dealer level. He is also an avid rider of Harley-Davidsons and trail dirtbikes in the summer, as well as mountain snowmobiling in the winter.

In his spare time, Crouch enjoys hunting, fishing and trail riding horses. Drag Specialties Magazine congratulates Crouch on his new position! ■

Eric Bondy Joins S&S Cycle as

VP of Sales and Business

Development

S&S Cycle announced Eric Bondy has joined the leadership team as Vice President of Sales and Business Development. In this role, Bondy will lead S&S Cycle’s global sales and business development efforts.

S&S Cycle has recently expanded into the UTV space with the launch of its off-road division, and added several million dollars in new manufacturing capabilities. The company has seen substantial growth across the last five years.

Bondy joins S&S Cycle after a successful stint with Malibu Boats and before that executive roles with Textron, Kymco and Arctic Cat. “Eric is a seasoned powersports leader who brings with him a deep understanding of our space,” said Paul Skarie, President and CEO. “The S&S team is particularly excited to have him join our organization and help write the next chapter of this storied brand.” ■

Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited Return to AIMExpo

Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited returned to AIMExpo in February 15-17, 2023 in Las Vegas. In addition to showcasing the company’s brands with a full complement of catalogs, including the worldfamous FatBook, the LeMans global leadership team was on hand to meet with dealers and attending Drag vendors.

The event’s highlights included a show-wide toast to LeMans Corporation’s late founder Fred Fox, who passed away February 5 at the age of 86. The toast was led by Drag Specialties Magazine publisher and editor-in-chief Don Emde.

The show also featured a MIC (Motorcycle Industry Council) Symposium session called the “Future of Powersports from the Distributor’s Perspective,” a panel that included LeMans Corporation Chairman and CEO Paul Langley.

According to AIMExpo organizers, the 2023 event was one of its most successful shows yet, attracting 1,676 dealers/retailers. ■

LeMans Corporation Chairman and CEO Paul Langley, second from left, participated in the AIMExpo’s “Future of Powersports from a Distributor’s Perspective” panel discussion. Dennis Johnson photo

Get twisted!

NAMZ replacement twist grip sensors

AMA Pro Racing Names

Gene Crouch as Chief Executive Officer

These are the only two names you need to remember when it comes to working on your ride. NAMZ & Badlands have all the electrical supplies and lighting modules you will ever need. Proudly made in the USA, our products are trusted worldwide by the industry’s finest. So don’t waste your time with anything less than the very best.

AMA Pro Racing announced that its board of managers has named Gene Crouch as Chief Executive Officer. Crouch, who has served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer since 2020, brings a wealth of multidisciplinary expertise and leadership capabilities gained from nearly two decades of motorsports experience.

“Gene has proven himself as an experienced and forward-looking leader,” said Mike Helton, Chairman of the AMA Pro Racing Board. “His knowledge of the motorcycle industry combined with his ability to balance all the stakeholders in AMA Pro will be important to the company’s future success.”

Crouch has played an instrumental role in shaping the direction of AMA Pro Racing since joining the company when it was founded in 2008. He’s spearheaded several critically important initiatives, including developing AMA Pro Racing’s industry-leading timing & scoring as well as the innovative FansChoice.tv livestreaming service.

Crouch has also played a critical role in securing major sponsorship and media rights agreements for the series brands that are operated out of the company’s Daytona Beach headquarters, including Progressive American Flat Track and American Hillclimb.

“I’m deeply honored and grateful to the Board for the opportunity to lead this incredible organization,” said Crouch. “The motorcycle racing industry has entered an unprecedented era of cooperation and collaboration. I look forward to working closely with the Board and our strategic partners as we usher in the next chapter of growth for the sport.”

Crouch takes the baton as CEO from predecessor Michael Lock, who led the strategy to revitalize Progressive American Flat Track after taking the helm in 2016. Lock will now transition to the role of Executive Consultant for AMA Pro Racing. ■

Photo by Tim Lester / AMA Pro Racing

QUALITY CABLES, TRUSTED NAME

Final 2023 Progressive American Flat Track Schedule Announced A

MA Pro Racing has confirmed its finalized 18-round schedule for the upcoming 2023 Progressive American Flat Track season. The final schedule features five Miles, five Half-Miles, four Short Tracks, and four TTs.

It also confirms the return of the Arizona Super TT and the West Virginia Half-Mile. The Arizona Super TT returns following its 2019 debut, joining the entertainment options planned during the weekend of the 29th annual Arizona Bike Week on April 1.

On July 1, Progressive AFT will compete in the state of West Virginia for the first time since 2006 with the West Virginia Half-Mile.

The final 2023 Progressive American Flat Track series kicked off in March with the Daytona Short Track I & II at the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Florida. The remainder of the schedule is as follows:

April 1, 2023 — Arizona Super TT, Chandler, Arizona

April 22, 2023 — Mission Dallas Half-Mile, Devil’s Bowl Speedway, Mesquite, Texas

May 6, 2023 — Ventura Short Track, Ventura Raceway, Ventura, California

May 13, 2023 — Sacramento Mile, Cal Expo, Sacramento, California

May 27, 2023 Red Mile, the Red Mile, Lexington, Kentucky

June 17, 2023 DuQuoin Mile, Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Du Quoin, Illinois

June 24, 2023 Lima Half-Mile, Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima, Ohio

July 1, 2023 West Virginia Half-Mile, West Virginia Motor Speedway, Mineral Wells, West Virginia

July 8, 2023 Orange County Half-Mile, Orange County Fair Speedway, Middletown, New York

July 22, 2023 — Bridgeport Half-Mile, Bridgeport Speedway, Swedesboro, New Jersey

July 30, 2023 — Peoria TT, Peoria Motorcycle Club, Peoria, Illinois

August 6, 2023 — Buffalo Chip TT, Sturgis Buffalo Chip, Sturgis, South Dakota

August 12, 2023 Castle Rock TT, Castle Rock Race Park, Castle Rock, Washington

September 2, 2023 — Springfield Mile I, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, Illinois

September 3, 2023 — Springfield Mile II, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, Illinois

» Tickets for select rounds are on sale now, and the remainder of the rounds will be made available for purchase in the weeks ahead at https://www.americanflattrack.com. ■

The 2023 AFT season includes the return of the Arizona Super TT and the West Virginia Half-Mile. Scott Hunter/ American Flat Track photo

Drag Specialties/Parts Unlimited/Indian rider Jared Mees will defend his 2022 AFT #1 plate this year. Tim Lester photo

FRONTLINE FLAT TRACKER

2023 INDIAN CATALOG COVER BIKE

They say timing is everything. And, timing certainly played a key role in the creation of what is perhaps the 21 Century’s first-ever Indian flat track racer – the gold Indian Scout that’s featured here and on the new 164page 2023 Indian catalog.

For simplicity’s sake we’ll refer to the Scout as Bike 01 in reference to the numbers painted on its front number plate. Visually and mechanically the bike, created by Rob Schopf, Eric Stach and their crew, checks all the boxes for a frontline flat tracker, essentially beat ing Indian’s own FTR 1200 to the line. Here’s the bike’s backstory, which, begins about the same time – 2011 – that Polaris acquired the storied Indian Motorcycle brand. By 2012, while Polaris was developing all-new Indian models for the brand’s resur rection, Rob Schopf was moving his tools and assorted motorcycle tuning equipment into a building for his new business, 2 Boss Performance.

Rob had recently retired after working 30 years for a Harley-Davidson dealership, much of that time spent tuning race bikes and special projects. His credentials stretched from earning AHDRA Wrench of the Year in 2002 and 2003, to tuning one of the first NHRA Pro Stock bikes to break into the 6-second field.

“After 30 years, it was time for me to retire,” says Rob. “I wanted to start my own business.” Originally established to focus on performance products and projects, 2 Boss Performance grew in size and scope, forcing a move to a larger location. The next stop was a spacious building that previously housed a Polaris dealership in the Milwaukee area. Soon, Rob partnered with Dave Davis to open their own dealership, Indian Motorcycle of Metro Milwaukee.

The plan was to have the dealership share the same complex with 2 Boss Performance, although both businesses would remain separate entities. Among the dealership’s first employees was Eric Stach to serve as their first lead Indian

Specially designed for flat track racing, Maxxis tires anchor Bike 01, front and rear.

mechanic; now he is shop foreman. Stach also happens to be a top-notch fabricator, and as you’ll see, he was a key player in the creation of Bike 01.

Meanwhile back at Polaris headquarters in nearby Minnesota marketing management was considering unique ways to promote the company’s fledging Indian Scout platform. Their decision was to promote a global styling contest, dubbed Project Scout, which was open to custom bike builders to showcase their talents. All entries were based on Indian’s new lightweight Scout model. Among the participants was 2 Boss Performance/Indian Motorcycle of Metro Milwaukee.

“Eric had a vision that flat tracking was going to boom, so we took that approach for our design,” recalls Rob. It helped that Rob and Eric had recently masterminded a Scoutbased ice racing bike shortly before the Polaris styling contest. Given the similarities between Midwestern ice racing and dirt-born flat track racing, Rob and Eric elected to base their show bike on that earlier ice racer. “That bike was, in hindsight, a mule for the contest bike,” adds Rob. Among the early lessons learned from that ice-bound mule was that the Scout needed more ground clearance if it was to be a bona fide candidate for flat tracking. However, according to the contest rules, the bike had to retain its stock frame and engine.

Eric set to work, giving a fresh Scout all-new suspenders; the front fork made way for a pair of Showa inverted legs held in line by a modified Buell Ulysses triple-tree, while the Scout’s rear shocks gave way to a pair of longer 15-inch shocks by Progressive. Indeed, many of the aftermarket products found on the bike today are available in the 2023 Indian catalog, such as the tires; 19-inch Maxxis flat track rubber wrapped around Performance Machine wheels. However, further modifications were necessary, among them replacing the Scout’s standard belt drive with a more conventional (by flat track standards) roller chain.

“Nobody had a chain drive conversion for the Scout at this time,” said Rob, so he and Eric paid a visit to nearby Cam Tech for advice. The result was a design based on a custom sprocket with correct pitch and offset. Modifications included a special rear sprocket for the PM hub, and a roller-chain driveline that linked to a custom front sprocket with correct pitch and offset.

Careful measuring was essential to align the rear suspension travel and ride height with the new drive chain. As Eric recalls, “Everything had to be made, measured and checked to make sure the chain drive conversion would line up and work correctly.” Frame clearance was critical, taking into account sprocket offset so the frame wouldn’t interfere with swing arm travel.

As various engineering hurdles were overcome, Troy Storch and the crew at Midwest Industries, a Wisconsinbased maker of tactical weapons, got involved with the project. The more Troy learned about the custom flat track racer, the more sense it made that the bike might make a suitable marketing prop for the company’s display booth at gun shows, so he signed on as sponsor.

Eric, who also happens to be a firearms enthusiast, realized, that Midwest Industries’ inventory might offer tactical value to the project. The closer he examined MI’s inventory of tactical weapons components, the more convinced he became that certain gun parts and accessories could be the perfect addition to the bike’s character. Eventually Midwest Industries jumped on board, and the project gained even more traction in terms of progress to its styling theme.

For instance, Eric concluded that a set of Midwest Industries hand guards destined for use on assault rifles shared the same basic shape and dimensions as the Showa fork legs’ lowers; the hand guards created the perfect fork protectors for Bike 01. By chance what became the bike’s rear foot brake pedal was pirated from a rifle’s muzzle brake, and modified to fit the bike. As for the handlebar clamps, they originated from a rifle scope mount. “It all works,” explains Eric. “These parts serve a purpose on the bike. They aren’t just for looks.” Bike 01 was gaining its identity.

Meanwhile, work continued on the bike’s body panels. Foremost, the skilled hands at CGS Premier Fabrication and Engineering in nearby Muskego, Wisconsin, formed the stylish solo seat out of aluminum, its tail section shrouding the two exhaust tips that Eric fabricated. The complete exhaust system routes up and over the engine to retain the bike’s compact lines.

Eric fabricated the bike’s special hydraulic clutch covers, too, right down to the system’s slave cylinder. Sticking with the tactical weapon theme, he also incorporated spent ammo shells into the engine fasteners and various other assembly points.

For paint, Rob and Eric both agreed only one man should be enlisted and that was Jason @ Artistimo. “His name is attached to many Drag Specialties project bikes so we figured let’s go with him!” says Rob. Indeed, Jason is considered a master with color tones, and he was able

to match the bike’s body panels perfectly with the engine’s powder coated cases. A special candy base coat did the trick, and silver leaf trim accents the front number plate so that all the world knows that this bike is number 01 (a tribute to Indian’s 1901 founding date).

A bold image of the bike appears as a wrap-around photo on the 2023 Indian catalog’s front and back covers. Additional images are found within the catalog’s opening spread. Clearly, a lot of work went into creating this flat tracker, including many hand-fabricated components mixed with over-the-counter wares from Drag Specialties. This and all the custom Scouts that participated in the original Project Scout contest are proof that the sporty Indian model is a prime candidate for custom treatment.

Rob and Eric point out, too, that their dealership has become a central hub for Indian Motorcycle enthusiasts in Wisconsin looking for aesthetic and performance parts for their bikes. And, here’s a little insight for Drag Specialties dealers everywhere: currently the most popular model for attracting their owners to Indian Motorcycle of Metro Milwaukee’s custom parts trough is the new Challenger performance bagger.

“Without a doubt, it’s the Challenger that commands the most activity at our aftermarket parts counter,” says Rob. As for custom parts? Just look through that 2023 Indian catalog. There are plenty. ■

While some of the bike parts are custom oneoffs fabricated by the builder, many of items used on Bike 01 can be found in the 2023 Indian catalog.

Take Control

Handlebar Control Kits for Function, Style

Some parts on a motorcycle are all about function. Things like seats are designed for comfort, and other parts are added just to look good. Some parts, though, have to do all of that, and do it well. Handlebar controls have to function well, be comfortable for the rider and, while it’s not a must that they look good, it does make a big difference in a bike’s aesthetics.

Luckily, Drag Specialties comes to the rescue when customers need a new set of handlebar controls. The latest additions to the lineup include two new handlebar control kits for Harley-Davidson Road Glides plus brake/ clutch lever assemblies in two finish options.

The handlebar control kits for Road Glides include one option for 2015-2016 models and another for 2017-2020 bikes. Both of these kits will work with a mechanical or hydraulic clutch setup, and they come with a brake master cylinder assembly as well as a clutch control assembly. The master cylinders accept OEM-style rebuild kits, and OEM switches or something built to those specs will work with these control kits. That means these handlebar control kits are a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in style and functionality. To top it all off, the aluminum pieces are chromed to make sure they look great and hold up ride after ride.

Drag Specialties has another brake/clutch lever assembly that is now in stock and ready to ship in two finish options. Available in chrome or matte black, this combo features a master cylinder that accepts OEM-style rebuild kits, and the design has clearance for 1¼-inch handlebars. Matching switch housings are available separately.

And speaking of switch housings, Drag Specialties now has a chrome switch cap set to fit 2016 and newer Road Kings, 2020 and newer Road Glides and 2015-2018 Freewheeler models (with the exception of CVO models).

A look at the FatBook will show just how many options Drag has for brake/clutch control kits and switch housings, allowing riders to get the right fitment for their bike as well as the right look. The switch housings are beautifully designed, with radiused edges and smooth tops, and they accept all OEM-style switches and wiring. Drag Specialties offers handlebar controls separately or as a kit in both chrome and matte black, and there are kits for both hydraulic and mechanical clutch setups.

» Talk to your Drag rep to get details on the latest handlebar controls from Drag Specialties. Find all options in the FatBook and OldBook, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Drag Specialties has brake/clutch lever assemblies in stock and ready to ship in two finish options. Available in chrome or matte black, this combo features a master cylinder that accepts OEM-style rebuild kits.

Drag Specialties’ handlebar control kits for Road Glides will work with a mechanical or hydraulic clutch setup, and they come with a brake master cylinder assembly as well as a clutch control assembly.

READY TO RIDE

HIGHLIGHTS OF COBRA’S SPRING 2023 LINEUP

All it takes is just a hint and hope of warmer spring weather to get enthusiasts to believe in the promise that good riding days are coming. Cobra Engineering reminds dealers that now is the time to prepare for those riding days. And, to help you in that preparation, Cobra is ready with a full catalog of functional accessories, and an exhaust line that currently has more than 45 products that are 50-state legal.

Let’s start with those accessories, which range from a great selection of updated freeway bars for the front of the bike to detachable backrests and racks to fit on the rear.

The Cobra Case Guard displays a sleeker profile than its more traditional hoop-style freeway bar. Cobra took a minimalist approach but left enough room for super-sized feet around the foot controls. The height of the 1¼-inch mandrel bent steel bar sits just above the top of the rear brake pedal, and with the width a bit outboard of the floorboards. A gentle

curve arcs the case guard back to join the frame at the front floorboard mounting locations. Fitment includes 20092016 Harley-Davidson FL Touring models and 2017-2021 FL Touring models. The Case Guard will work on Road Glides or models equipped with fairing lowers.

Cobra’s full line of detachable back rests and racks fitments for Baggers also includes four-point docking hardware, two backrest sizes and enough racks for customers to find the perfect fit. Dyna, Softail and Sportster riders have it even easier with back rest fitments because everything comes in one box – docking hardware, side plates, backrest and pads are one part number. It could not be easier.

Cobra leads off its 50-state legal products with its recently introduced Gen2 Neighbor Hater line. Those 10 new mufflers complement the original Neighbor Haters, the 909, the 909 Upper Cuts and the Dual Cuts. These GEN2 models are an extension of that popular line, and each is a qualified

manufacturer declared U.S. 50-State legal replacement part on all 2017-2022 Harley-Davidson FL Touring models. And, they all have a customer friendly price point.

The GEN2 versions with a dual-grooved tips use either a 4-inch, or 4½-inch round body available in chrome or black. Both versions have a machined aluminum black outer tip with dual grooves. The chrome version uses a chromed inner tip and the black bodies use a gloss black inner tip. Those inner tips echo the original Neighbor Hater form, creating a strong visual resemblance between the original and GEN2 options. The 4-inch uses 2½-inch louvered cores to deliver that same popular NH sound while the 4½-inch uses a 2¼-inch louvered core.

FAR LEFT: The Case Guard is quite an elegant piece, one that integrated nicely into the stock mounting locations. Unobtrusive in its simplicity, sturdy in its construction.

LEFT: The front of the Case Guard angles forward to increase clearance around the rear brake pedal.

The 4½-inch slash cut GEN2 Neighbor Haters have all the same features as the 4½-inch dual groove muffler, including the 2¼-inch louvered core. It has a rolled slash cut end with a gloss black inner tip.

So it looks like Cobra is ready for spring riding, and you can be ready when those customers come calling. Now it’s just up to the weatherman. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details on Cobra’s spring lineup. Learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

*****Manufacturer Declared Qualified Replacement Parts for 2017-2022 Harley-Davidson FL Touring models and are therefore available for sale in California*****

The 4½-inch Upper Cut has a rolled end with a gloss black inner tip. The 2¼-inch louvered core gives it a deep rumble and makes solid power with the stock head pipes. It fits nicely with extended bag applications.

The Premier issue of Parts Magazine was published in March of 1994. Now with 29 years under our belts, we have finally begun work on Volume 30. Since it will take the whole year to get us to our actual 30th birthday, we’ll be looking back all year long at how the publications for LeMans Corporation got started and highlights along the way.

Since we only published one magazine title in 1994, Drag Specialties participated that first year in a way that many LeMans vendors do today with a full-page ad and an editorial page. As we began our second year, Fred Fox contacted us with a favorable report that the Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties sales reps were finding the magazine to be a very useful sales tool with their dealers.

He only had one request, but it was a big one. He explained how the Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties dealer networks were separate, as were the sales forces and participating manufacturers. That discussion led to an agreement to launch another magazine dedicated specifically for the V-twin market. Drag Specialties Magazine was born, and the Premier issue published in mid1995. To this day, both publications are published six times a year, rotating monthly. ■

LEFT: When Parts Magazine began in 1994, the content and distribution of the magazine was combined for both Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties.

Drag Specialties’ editorial in the Premier issue of Parts Magazine was about a collectible desk top truck bank. It was used as a promotion of the 25th anniversary of Tom Rudd and his partners opening Drag Specialties in 1969.

The back cover of Parts Magazine featured a Drag Specialties ad with lots of cool stuff for Harley riders.

Our pick for the cover bike for our first issue of Drag Specialties Magazine in 1995 was this custom Drag-Ness Harley custom. What had started a few years earlier with a joint venture with Arlen Ness to manufacture the Drag-Ness mirrors was turning into a whole line in the Drag Specialties catalog.

LookingBack

1. The big news in the Premier issue of Drag Specialties Magazine was this ad from Vance & Hines announcing their entry into the V-twin market. At that point, they had been exclusively racing Suzukis and building metric exhaust systems.

2. Jim Betlach never had a specific title in the years that he worked at Drag Specialties, but after LeMans acquired Drag in 1988 and Tom Rudd left, Jim became the new ambassador of the brand and travel extensively to motorcycle rallies and events.

3. Tom Motzko, who today manages vendor development, has worked at Drag Specialties since 1974, 14 years before the company was sold to LeMans. Tom’s relationships not only with vendors, but the entire V-twin community have been a major factor in Drag Specialties’ success.

4. This ad from 1995 was typical of the types of highend custom products that were making their way into the Drag Specialties catalog.

Louisville NVP JANUARY 21-22

With the world slowly returning to what is considered the new normal in this postpandemic era, there’s one constant in the powersports world perfect for guiding the collective group back to full operating steam – the Drag Specialties Spring NVP Product Expo.

After all, this is the show that signals the beginning of the new sales season and serves as the first look at all the parts, products, accessories and apparel jam-packed into those new Parts Unlimited catalogs. These are the very products driving customers into dealerships as they get ready to rip into 2023.

As such, of those attending the Spring NVP Product Expo in Louisville, Kentucky in January – the show’s first return to the Derby City since 2020 – there was a palpable joy among showgoers eager to get together again to kick off the spring riding season. And, as always, the NVP was as much a homecoming and reunion of friends and colleagues as it was a business opportunity. With all that going for it, the show was a huge success.

In fact, the NVP was the best attended Expo to date, hitting its highest attendee numbers with 2,121 dealer attendees and an overall attendance of over 2,800. With a 40 percent increase in exhibit space, there was more room for the record number of attendees as well as many new vendors to the Expo.

For two full days, dealers poured into the Kentucky International Convention Center to scour 140,000 square

feet of exhibit space and meet with a myriad of vendors showcasing everything from the latest riding apparel and service equipment, to cutting-edge hot rod parts and tires of all types.

This season’s show also highlighted just how diverse that Drag Specialties product lineup is, showcasing the company’s growing bicycle parts lineup – centered around the INTENSE Tazer MX eMTB range – and including such products as performance supplements and a big increase in helmet offerings.

Dealers should also note that their Drag Specialties sales reps also received two days of in-depth product education from 6D Helmets, Arai, Ciro, Cobra, Custom Dynamics, Hogtunes, ICON, Khrome Werks, Klock Werks, Kodlin USA, LA Choppers, Legend Suspensions, Muc-Off, S&S Cycle, Trask Performance and Vance & Hines.

Saturday’s show ended with a dealer happy hour before the whole show moved over to the Sports & Social Club in the heart of Louisville’s 4th Street Live! district for the now-iconic LeMans Meet & Greet. Attendees enjoyed food, drinks, games, robust camaraderie and a variety of sports programming on the establishment’s more than 60 televisions.

With all signs pointing to ‘GO’ as the world’s economy reawakens, dealers can now set their sights on the return of the Fall NVP Product Expo, August 19-20 in Madison, Wisconsin at the Monona Terrace. Talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep to get details about attending the show.

Todd Olson photos

Showgoers were given a sneak peek at the coming biography of LeMans Corporation founder Fred Fox. Written by Drag Specialties Magazine publisher and editorin-chief Don Emde, the book, Unlimited: The Fred Fox Story, recounts the incredible story of Fred Fox and his journey to build his worldwide powersports distributing empire. Don Emde photo

Feuling’s Luke Leatherman (left) and Alex Fox of Slyfox proudly showcase the 2023 FatBook cover bike. The 2018 Road King Performance Bagger, finished off with the same white paint and brightred No. 9 that were the trackfavorites of Alex’s late father Stan Fox, is headed for the 2023 Bagger Racing League.

The Legend Suspensions booth was a buzz of activity all show. Product specialist Brian Burris (left) showcases some suspension products for the Shadley brothers, Paul (middle) and Mark. Dennis Johnson photo

Photo courtesy of Alex Fox

The NVP is always a great time to catch up with old friends and colleagues.

Pierce Rodriguez (left) and Joseph “Buzzy” Teson (right) pose for a pic with

Drag Specialties RSM Adam Alberghine (middle).

Dennis Johnson photo

Drag rep Kevin Hughes (left) checks out the latest and greatest from DP Brakes with the company’s Larry Mills. Todd Olson photo

BDL always has the belt drive, clutch and other associated products dealers seek out. Scott Murley (left) goes over the lineup with Rick Hayden (right) of R&D Cycle Works. Dennis Johnson photo

Our photographer saw LePera Seats’ Bob LePera Jr. (left) and Drag Specialties vendor relations guru Tom Motzko (right) having a talk at NVP and got them to pose for a great picture. Todd Olson photo

The ICON booth is always a hotbed of new products and good old fashioned fun. Product specialists

Nean Kiskela (left) and Kat Foster (right) try their hand at the brand’s newest booth game. Todd Olson photo

INTENSE Cycle’s product marketing manager Chappy Fiene gives a Tazer MX a spin though the test ride area at the show. Dealers had the chance to pedal a few laps on the eMTBs while attending the NVP.

Todd Olson photo

S&S Cycle’s Scott Hakins (left) goes over the company’s latest go-fast parts with Drag rep Jimmy Orrick. Todd Olson photo

Denise Welton (right), GM of Indian of Albuquerque gets the full scoop on the Saddlemen lineup from the company’s own sales expert, Dylan Jones. Dennis Johnson photo

How’s that for an impressive lineup? Drag Specialties rep Jon Olson (right) checks out the PSR offerings with the company’s Charlie Hon. Todd Olson photo

Feuling’s Evan Kleen (left) goes over a range of the company’s parts with Drag rep Mike Coury (middle) and his dealer Phil Sudduth of California Phil’s. Todd Olson photo

Nelson-Rigg’s Deb Drinan (left) showcases the company’s expanded luggage lineup for Brian Gruhn, parts manager at Black Hills Harley-Davidson. Dennis Johnson photo

Drag Specialties Sales Rep Training:

The two days before the show opened were dedicated to intensive, hands-on sales rep training for the Drag Specialties sales force. Not only did this include classroom-style instruction from a host of select vendors, it also included a half day on the show floor, giving reps the chance to meet one-on-one with the vendors at their booths.

RIGHT: New to the Drag Specialties lineup, Arai offered sales reps in-depth fitting sessions for its helmet line. Armed with this knowledge, the Drag reps can take that fitting information into dealerships to help dealers better serve their customers when setting them up with an Arai helmet. Dual Drag Specialties/Parts

Unlimited sales reps Trey Crouch (left) and Gary Gibbs (right) check out the lineup of helmets. Todd Olson photo

RIGHT: Vance & Hines had a lot to talk about at the Louisville NVP and the company’s own Tom Trobaugh was there to fill in the details for a roomful of Drag Specialties reps. Todd Olson photo

LEFT: Nick Trask introduced Trask Performance’s new Trask Tornado bolt-on turbo kit, a product that proved to be wildly popular with showgoers. As tested on a new HarleyDavidson Softail ST with a bone stock 117”, the Turbo Kit can achieve a 57 percent increase in horsepower and 35 percent increase in torque, while running a modest 8 pounds of boost on 91 octane pump gas. This equates to a healthy 142 horsepower and a solid 147 foot-pounds of torque, all from a completely bolt-on kit. Don Emde photo

The Drag reps all had a chance to get some in-depth product education from Hogtunes’ Scott Hooper in the days before the show opened. Todd Olson photo

Dual Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited sales rep Greg Matter checks out ICON’s ripping new range of helmets and riding apparel. Todd Olson photo

introduce the Drag sales reps to the company’s growing line of street, off-road and bicycle helmets, all of which are now available through Drag Specialties.

The gang’s all here. Given that the NVP is as much a get-together as it is a business meeting, the crew at Legend Suspensions took the opportunity to pose with attending Drag reps and LeMans management Don Emde photo

Once the show opened on Saturday, a huge number of Drag Specialties dealers took advantage of the exclusive vendor training from such popular brands as (left) Custom Dynamics and (right) S&S Cycle. Todd Olson photos

Jose Tanchez (left) and Bob Weber (right) of 6D Helmets

Todd Olson photo

2023 NVP Product Expo Meet & Greet: The Sports & Social Club

Powerhouse Quartet!

Four of the dynamos who make the NVP possible take a break from the show and enjoy the Meet & Greet. From left: Amy

Metzeler/Pirelli Go-Karting and Axe Throwing: Full Throttle Adrenaline Park

The Friday night before the show started, Metzeler/Pirelli put together an event for the Drag Specialties and Parts Unlimited reps to help kick off the 2023 selling season. The night featured a lineup of activities that guaranteed a good time: Axe throwing, go-kart racing and bench racing!

Todd Olson photo ■

Pittman, Event Department; Teresa Reilly, Dealer Services; Kathy Sommervold, Events Manager; and Lisa Reif, Event Coordinator.

Todd Olson photo

A Racing Program Fit for a King Bagger Battles

From Flat track to MotoGP, Saddlemen has been involved in almost every form of motorcycle racing. Until the 2020 season, though, the company had never gone Bagger racing. Now in its fourth season, MotoAmerica’s Mission King of the Baggers class is still growing in popularity, and Team Saddlemen is back for another season of racing. This time around, the team is twice as big, and Saddlemen is eyeing the top spot in both King of the Baggers and the Mission Foods Super Hooligan National Championship.

When Bagger racing started in 2020, it was a new platform, and everybody was learning what it took to build a competitive Bagger. Fast forward to 2023, and Team Saddlemen is still on the gas. The team continues to build momentum. This season, Saddlemen has teamed up with Harley-Davidson and primary sponsor Mission Foods, and the team will have an entirely new look. Not only will the bikes and team gear have unique designs, but Saddlemen continues to upgrade all aspects of its program to keep the team and equipment clean and organized as they travel to each of the eight rounds on the schedule.

Expanding the team means having more riders in contention for a championship. Cory West and Patricia

Fernandez-West are returning to Team Saddlemen, where Frankie Garcia and Jake Lewis will join them.

All four Team Saddlemen riders will compete in King of the Baggers on race-prepped 2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited motorcycles. The bikes will be outfitted with Saddlemen carbon fiber race bodywork, and powered by a Twin-Cooled 131R Milwaukee-Eight motor.

Cory and Patricia will pull double duty on race weekends since they will again compete in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan Series. They will ride highly modified HarleyDavidson Pan America 1250 motorcycles for that class. Like the Team Saddlemen Baggers, the Pan Americas will have Saddlemen’s carbon fiber race bodywork.

Cory West earned a trio of top-10 finishes in the 2022 King of the Baggers championship and won the Super Hooligans race at Road Atlanta. However, his racing history dates back well beyond the beginning of Bagger racing. He turned pro in 2001 and was the 2004 AMA Superbike Rookie of the Year.

Patricia Fernandez-West has raced worldwide on traditional road courses and street circuits. At the Ulster Grand Prix in Northern Ireland, she set a blistering lap at the Dundrod Circuit, averaging 118.264mph on a 600cc motorcycle.

Saddlemen/Harley-Davidson rider Patricia Fernandez-West (left) and John Sanders (right) discussing ergonomics at a preseason Pan American fabrication and rider fitting session at Saddlemen’s Long Beach, California location.

Flat track, Supermoto, road racing, X Games – you name it – and Frankie Garcia has raced it. Frankie was the youngest rider to compete on a motorcycle at the X Games, racing Supermoto at just 15. Frankie is no stranger to King of the Baggers and already has plenty of top-10s.

In 2011, Jake Lewis received the AMA Horizon Award. In addition, he was the AMA Pro Road Racing Rooke of the Year one year later. More recently, Jake has been notching wins and podiums in virtually every MotoAmerica class there is, and he won the 2021 Stock 1000 championship.

Saddlemen Vice President Rob Schlueter says the team didn’t necessarily have plans to expand. Instead, the growth happened rather organically. “Saddlemen loves competition, and right now, Bagger racing is one of the most competitive aspects of the V-Twin industry,” notes Schlueter. “Plus, as the team has evolved and we’ve become more competitive, we find it’s easier for sponsors to get behind the program. We have the best partners supporting our race program, so ’23 will be a really exciting season for us.”

In addition to partnering with Harley-Davidson as part of the team’s growth, Team Saddlemen will also be partnering with Hoban Brothers Racing. The road racing veterans will provide all the trackside and technical support, keeping the motors going strong and running things in the pits. Racing can’t exist without sponsors. Team Saddlemen has many on board for the season, including Mission Foods, Drag Specialties, K&N, NAMZ Custom Cycle Products, and Motul. (With Mission Foods involved, Saddlemen’s trackside hospitality is shaping up to be something the team’s guests won’t want to miss out on.)

The carbon fiber bodywork for the Road Glides and the Pan Americas proves why racing is about so much more than who crosses the finish line first. Racing is one of the best places to test new products since nowhere else are motorcycles and parts thrown into such intense situations. The parts have to hold up lap after lap, under hard acceleration and braking, and – sometimes – a little nudge from a competitor.

Saddlemen loves building bikes for this kind of testing and development opportunity. Every trip to the race track is a chance to further refine the products that eventually end up lining the shelves of Drag Specialties warehouses and dealerships across North America. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep to learn more about the 2023 Team Saddlemen racing program. In addition, you can find all of the company’s products in the FatBook, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

For the 2023 King of the Baggers season, Saddlemen has teamed up with Harley-Davidson and primary sponsor Mission Foods. Teammates Patricia Fernandez-West, Frankie Garcia, Jake Lewis and Cory West will compete on race-prepped 2023 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Limited motorcycles in Saddlemen’s new livery.

All of the Pan Americas and Road Glides ridden by the Saddlemen riders will feature the company’s specially fabricated parts and bodywork.

HANDLEBAR BAG

• 3510-0103

EXPEDITION SADDLEBAGS

• 3501-1963

PASSENGER BAG

• 3515-0237

HARD MOUNT BRACKETS

• 3501-1962

Designed, & Tested By Riders

LANCE ROCKING THE ALL-NEW PASSENGER BAG AND EXPEDITION SADDLEBAGS. THESE BAGS FEATURE CORRESPONDING BUCKLES WHICH ALLOW FOR MODULAR ATTACHMENT. NO SISSY BAR NEEDED.

New and Improved Saddlebags Latest Luggage LUGGAGE

THRASHIN’ Supply’s lineup of luggage is evolving and expanding. The popular 10-liter Essential Saddlebags and 18-liter Escape Saddlebags have been updated and improved for 2023, and THRASHIN’ has just launched the all-new, 21-liter Expedition Saddlebags for even more capacity on longer trips. That’s on top of existing accessories like the MultiUse Pouch, Bottle Holster, Handlebar Bag, Tool Roll, and Mission Duffle Bag.

“Bags have been a part of THRASHIN’ Supply since we started the company in 2014,” says owner Lance Coury. The Essentials were launched about seven years ago, and serve as a quick and easy way to carry an extra layer, a bottle of water, and other smaller items. For trips that span several days, THRASHIN’ has the Escape bags, which offer 18 liters of storage in a compact and sleek toploading design. Both bags work with most stock tail lights and blinker assemblies and will fit fenders up to 12 inches wide, and they’ve proven incredibly popular for riders.

“We use what we make and we pay attention to how others are using the bags,” Coury says. “We’ve seen some guys put too much in the Essential and Escape bags, which makes them slouch and sag.”

These customers are technically overloading the bags, but Lance and his product designer, Jake Webber, viewed it as an opportunity. “We figured out a way to make a onepiece backing system that’s molded into an L-shape and integrates into the bottom of the bag,” says Webber. “This one-piece frame is in the new Essential V3 and Escape V2 and increases the bags’ rigidity so they keep their shape better when fully loaded.”

While Lance and Jake were tweaking the structure of the Essentials and Escapes, they also implemented some other changes that had been swirling around in their heads. “We created the Essentials back when Dynas were really popular, so the design used the bike’s shocks as a mounting point, with straps that looped through vertical MOLLE webbing on the bags,” says Coury. “Then, when the new Softail came out, we adjusted the bags to mount to struts, but we left the old Velcro straps and MOLLE webbing just in case. After a couple years of using that style and shape we’ve decided to revise the exterior of the bags and put the MOLLE in the traditional horizontal direction to make it more useful.”

With the conventional, horizontal MOLLE webbing on the Essential V3 and Escape V2, the door is now open to a massive array of readily available accessories that can

The 21-liter Expedition Saddlebags are the latest additions to the THRASHIN’ luggage line. They have a number of features including MOLLE webbing, a secure zipper closure and waterproof liners.

easily be attached to the THRASHIN’ bags, making for a modular and versatile luggage system.

“We have the Multi-Use Pouch and Bottle Holster and other stuff that will fit perfectly,” says Lance. “However, riders can buy any MOLLE stuff that fits their needs and it’ll mount to our bags.” And, with the increased structural rigidity brought about by the new interior frame, the Essential and Escape bags are readier than ever to support whatever gear and accessories your customers want to throw at them.

These updates are exciting, but the big news is the launch of the new 21-liter Expedition Saddlebags. “As we were figuring out how to improve the structure of the Escapes and Essentials, and designing the new molded frame, we realized we could add a third, larger size to the lineup,” says Coury.

The result is the Expedition Saddlebags. Besides the increased capacity, the Expeditions are appealing thanks to a number of innovative features. The lids are fairly rigid and offer two options for entry – quick and easy G-hooks, or more secure zipper closure. Beneath that, the Expeditions have layered compartments for toolbox-like organization. There’s also a charging port, plus horizontal MOLLE webbing like the other bags. Included interior waterproof liners keep gear dry in crummy weather and help with organization, while various straps and buckles open the door to mounting more gear on top of the Expeditions, if needed. THRASHIN’ has also launched a drop-in insulated cooler bag that fits perfectly into the Expeditions.

“The Expeditions are for somebody that wants to carry a lot, but still wants a minimalist look that doesn’t hide their

fender or wheel,” says Coury. “They’re great for Softails and Dynas, but also work well on FXRs and Sportsters.”

As with the Essentials and Escapes, the Expeditions are made to last and built from 1680-denier nylon and quality YKK zippers. No matter what bags your customers choose, they’ve all been road tested and approved by Coury and his crew and will offer useful cargo space that won’t ruin the look of their ride. ■

» For more information, reach out to your Drag Specialties sales rep and take a look at the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Your customers can keep their devices charged up and ready to roll thanks to the pass-through grommet for a charging cable.

The redesigned Essential features a one-piece frame that helps keep the bag’s shape better when fully loaded. The horizontal MOLLE allows for attaching a range of accessories.

Your customers can be locked, loaded and primed for a road trip thanks to the luggage and accessories available from THRASHIN’.

Lasting Luster

Chrome Never Goes Out of Style

all heights and pullback options will now be available with a chrome finish. To add to that, even the complete Performance Riser gauge mount offerings will be available in chrome.

To keep things consistent, LA Choppers is also offering its County Line of accessories in chrome as well. This includes the company’s moto-inspired floorboards, footpegs, brake pedals, derby covers, shifters, and shift linkage. Help your customers pair the County Line together with some Performance Risers and they will have the coolest bikes on the block.

That classic chrome finish is the perfect complement to LA Choppers high-quality, American-made parts and accessories. Designed, tested and manufactured in-house on the company’s fleet of CNC mills and lathes, these are handlebars and parts built to not only last, but look great out on the road. That added glint of chrome just makes them that much cooler. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep about LA Chopper’s new range of chromed hard parts, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Trends come and go. Back in the 1990s you couldn’t pass a bike that didn’t have tribal graphics on the grips, floorboards, or even the paint! In the 2000s billet aluminum took over, and anyone who could afford it had non-functional billet parts all over their bike. In the 2010s everyone wanted that murdered-out black look. Now, in the 2020s, all the cool kids are building performance-oriented HarleyDavidsons.

Throughout all these recent trends, what’s the one thing that never went out of style? Chrome, of course. Chrome parts have been a part of the custom V-Twin scene since the beginning and for good reason. Over time, some super cool looking finishes have joined the ranks of color anodized, ceramic finished and powder coated parts and accessories. However, holding fast as the go-to look for everything from a Café classic to a Vicla style cruiser is a brilliant, hard-chromed shine. That is why LA Choppers is making its entire Performance Riser and County Line of billet accessories available in 100 percent USA-made, hard chrome.

This means the entire Performance Riser line, including

Chrome never goes out of style. As such, LA Choppers is now offering its range of Performance Riser and County Line billet line of accessories in 100 percent, USA-made hard chrome.

Your customers can also now find LA Choppers’ County Line floorboards and footpegs in chrome.

THE COUNTY LINE

BILLET ACCESSORIES

Our new San Diego County floorboards are made with high-performance riding in mind. Featuring a motocross-inspired tread pattern that not only looks great, but also allows the rider to feel planted and secure while ripping down the road.

The matching brake pedal is designed to easily mount up to all Harley-Davidson® touring bikes. Available in three finishes! Bright Chrome, Black Anodized, or Natural Machined.

Classic Refresh

Updated Moto-Style Handlebars

saw some opportunities with its moto bars and came up with an entire new lineup. Introducing the Moto 2.0 handlebars from Todd’s Cycle.

The original idea of a simple 1-inch bar was the basis of the project. However, the team at Todd’s thought it could improve what the company was already offering. The brand’s design gurus went back to the drawing board (or computer monitor!) and drew up various 3D models of the bar’s new iteration. The team factored in how much rise the bars should have, what angle and length of pullback and how they would fit with a rider in the cockpit. After multiple sets of designs, the Moto 2.0 started to take shape. With blueprints in hand, the team rushed over to the engineering department for samples. A few tweaks and turns here and there and those samples made it onto a range of bikes for fitting and real-world testing.

Once the design was set, it was fullspeed ahead. Todd’s Cycles’ new Moto 2.0 handlebars are available with 1-inch and 11/8-inch clamping areas. They also feature a trick bit of design on the 11/8-inch version, that transitions to 1-inch at the grip area. With the addition of the Moto 2.0 to the Todd’s lineup, the company now offers a range of moto styles for fitment with 1-inch and 11/8-inch risers.

Todd’s Cycle has been at the cutting edge of handlebar and accessory development for more than 20 years. An early part of moto-style handlebars designed for Harley-Davidson models came from Todd’s back in 2008. Some might say that company namesake Todd Silicato was ahead of his time, because fast forward 15 years and moto-style bars are all the rage for dialed-in bike riders.

As with anything, there is always room for more research, development and improvement. The team at Todd’s Cycle

The end result is a righteous set of handlebars that look just as banging fresh as those originals that Silicato rolled out back in 2008. It’s a design destined to always be in demand. And, those bars not only add a nice hit of style, but they are also supremely functional, offering great comfort and leverage for hustling a V-Twin through the twisties or simply going for an afternoon cruise. ■

» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

The Moto 2.0 is a revamped version of Todd’s Cycle’s popular moto-inspired handlebar. The new style comes with in a fitment for 11/8-inch risers, which joins the original designed for 1-inch risers.

BIG KAHUNA RISERS

The Big Kahuna risers make you look and feel like the boss! Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum in sunny Southern California, these race-inspired risers exude quality and comfort. Available with a 1" or 1-1/8" clamping area, as well as straight or 2" of pullback. And to top it all off - you can choose from bright chrome, or beautiful anodized black. Pair any big Kahuna risers with a Todd’s Cycle Moto 2.0 bar! Also available in 1" or 1-1/8" varieties.

Power Flow Air Intake Kits

for Harley-Davidsons

billet mounting bracket and a stainless steel intake tube hand-welded with pie cut style pieces – craftsmanship typically seen with custom-built pieces.

If stainless isn’t exactly your customers’ style, the VO2 Falcon is also available with a matte, forged carbon intake tube for a sleek combination of style and power. Complete with 12-point, stainless hardware and a V&H logo stamped air filter, the VO2 Falcon intakes are the ultimate complement for riders looking to maximize their machine on all fronts.

Rooted in racing and evolved over decades of two-wheel development, Vance & Hines has fine-tuned its motorcycle performance craft. With air, fuel and spark as the core ingredients to internal combustion engine power, Vance & Hines takes a precise approach to optimizing those basics of power for Harley-Davidsons.

Appropriately named a Stage 1 upgrade by Vance & Hines, air cleaners and air intake kits are responsible for delivering the air necessary for fuel ignition into the engine. Achieving efficient performance means it’s not as simple as just sucking air in, the air needs to be free of even the finest dust and debris that cause internal engine damage, and that airflow should be optimized to complement the engine’s tuning.

Thankfully, Vance & Hines offers air cleaners for Harley-Davidson models that check all boxes, applying extensive performance and durability experience in a design that meets emissions requirements for specified models. In fact, Vance & Hines offer a full line of these intakes, allowing your riders to choose the look and feel they want without worrying about potential emissions issues.

Called the VO2 line, this range of intake systems covers the complete spectrum, from an affordable and effective upgrade with the VO2 Naked kit to the full-style, fullperformance VO2 Falcon Stainless.

The VO2 Falcon Stainless air intake kit features a forward-facing, 90-degree design achieved through a CNC-machined,

Splitting the difference and adding unique flair in Vance & Hines intake line is the VO2 Insight. This intake looks as good as it performs with a clear, polycarbonate top embossed with the Vance & Hines logo surrounded by a precision-machined, billet aluminum cover complete with stainless hardware.

The Insight uses V&H’s patent-pending Force Velocity Stack, a proprietary design element that helps accelerate air into the engine for improved performance. This contributes to the notable horsepower and torque increases the VO2 Insight delivers, as proven by Vance & Hines’ dyno testing. In fact, each intake in the VO2 lineup has had their performance dyno-proven by Vance & Hines, available for everyone to view on their website. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for more information about the Vance & Hines lineup, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

& Hines’ VO2 Falcon air intake kit in the matte, forged carbon finish, offers a sleek combination of style and power.

VO2 AIR INTAKES

More air means more power. Vance & Hines offers the widest selection of high performance air intake kits for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. All 50-state emissions compliant. Go to vanceandhines.com to learn more.

EXEMPT FROM EMISSIONS TAMPERING REGULATIONS UNDER CARB EO# D-632-6 AND D-632-7 FOR 20072022 HARLEY-DAVIDSON TOURING, SOFTAIL, DYNA AND SPORTSTER MODELS.

VO2 INSIGHT

VO2 RADIANT V

VO2 STINGRAY

VO2 FALCON STAINLESS

VO2 CAGEFIGHTER

VO2 AMERICA

A Decade With Biltwell

Time Flies When You’re Having Fun

This year marks the 10 anniversary of LeMans Corporation’s distribution partnership with Biltwell Inc., the scrappy hard parts and riding gear brand from Southern California. When the brand entered the market in the mid-2000s, Biltwell utilized burgeoning social-media tools to lead a quantum shift in the way brands, distributors and retailers communicate with a new breed of tech-savvy enthusiasts.

The affordable, high-quality products Biltwell introduced in those days were designed for blue-collar and home-based

builders and bike riders—people who used web-based communication and grassroots events to grow and share their passion for custom motorcycles. Biltwell led the charge to help grow this new custom motorcycle ecosystem, and the scene they identified two decades ago continues to thrive today.

In 2013, after building its brand with a striking line of high-performance handlebars, risers and hard parts for V-Twin riders and customizers, Biltwell diversified into helmets and riding gear—no easy feat for an established player, let alone a company just seven years old. Success in the helmet space with LeMans’ distribution weight behind them was immediate, with Biltwell Bonanza, Gringo and Lane Splitter rocking the two-wheeled world with the company’s well known “less-is-more” aesthetic.

EXFIL luggage from Biltwell is the go-anywhere, hold-everything gear system for two-wheeled adventure. Every piece in the broad range is engineered and ride-tested by Biltwell co-founder Bill Bryant, a man who knows how to live on two wheels.

Secret Sauce

Ten years on, Biltwell continues to attract and satisfy a huge number of modern riders worldwide—everyone from chopper freaks and hooligan dirt trackers to the café crowd, Dyna bros and Bagger daddies.

How does a now mature brand—the company will turn 17 this summer—remain so popular across so many different product categories and consumer niches? According to Rob Bluma, Drag Specialties Midwest Regional Sales Manager and long-time fan of the brand, “Every motorcycle company sells parts. Biltwell sells fun. Whether it’s riding choppers to Baja, moto camping in the High Sierras or crossing the Arctic Circle on Panheads and Pan Americas, Biltwell knows the secret sauce for good times. Few brands of any size know how to grow and share custom motorcycle culture like Biltwell.”

The Next Decade

At the NVP in Louisville, Kentucky in February, Biltwell’s product and marketing team met with LeMans staff to set a course for the next 10 years of their partnership. Plans for growing Biltwell’s already impressive brand reputation and market awareness include the company’s newest products. Among them are helmets, 7/8-inch and 1-inch AlumiCore grips for TBW Harleys, a broad range of riding gloves, EXFIL luggage and, of course, the handlebars and risers that made the brand famous. ■

» The latest shiny things from Biltwell can be seen in the FatBook, and on www.dragspecialties.com. For more info immediately, please contact your Drag representative today.

Biltwell’s Lane Splitter combines clean, aggressive motorsports-inspired style with proven manufacturing and material technologies to create a great helmet for high-performance HarleyDavidson riders.

From Harley Panheads to Pan Americas, Gringo S looks right at home on every two-wheeled machine you can imagine.

Biltwell AlumiCore grips feature one-piece, CNC-machined aluminum core construction. This technology adds both precision and performance.

Cruise in Comfort

Highway Peg Mounts Provide Finish and Function

Comfort is a complex subject. It may seem simple, but it can present itself in so many ways, both mentally and physically. However, at its core, sometimes it just comes down to getting home after a long day at work, kicking your feet up and taking a load off. For riders, comfort doesn’t end at the recliner, an idea that Ciro embraced with its Frame Mounted Adjustable Highway Peg Mounts.

Why should riders have to wait until they get home to kick their feet up in the name of comfort? The concept of highway pegs was born from riders putting in substantial hours and miles on their cruisers looking to achieve the most comfortable riding position possible. The crew at Ciro knew maximizing comfort is something riders everywhere can agree on, so they went to work optimizing a highway peg mount design that prioritizes both riding pleasure and style.

Ciro’s design began with the frame, creating a new, stronger mounting system that’s optimized to provide extensive adjustability without sacrificing strength. The Highway Peg Mounts integrate into the floorboard area in sleek fashion, maintaining a clean and custom look. These peg mounts use the factory bolt locations both for OEM and aftermarket footpegs using the Harley-Davidson style ½-inch male mount. Of course, riders can also use these in conjunction with many of Ciro’s footpegs, footrests and floorboards as well.

Additionally, the design of these mounts allow them to fold up and out of the way when they’re not being used, a feature that maintains functionality especially for riders running fairing lowers on their bikes.

Ciro Frame Mounted Adjustable Highway Peg Mounts are designed to be versatile in both finish and compatibility. They are available in a standard, 4-inch length or an extended, 5½-inch length to deliver cruising comfort for riders of all sizes. Plus, customers can easily complement their custom look, as these peg mounts are available in both chrome and black finishes.

Ciro’s Frame Mounted Adjustable Highway Peg Mounts are supplied in kits, including left and right floorboard mounts, arms, clevises and all necessary hardware for completing installation. ■

» Whatever the destination may be, riders will appreciate the riding comfort and classic style of these latest peg mounts from Ciro. For more information and products from Ciro, contact your Drag rep and check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Ciro’s Highway Peg Mounts integrate into the floorboard area in sleek fashion, maintaining a clean and custom look. They also provide extensive adjustability without sacrificing strength.

Ciro’s Frame Mounted Adjustable Highway Peg Mounts include left and right floorboard mounts, arms, clevises and all necessary hardware for completing installation.

Fog Fighter Yellow

and Amber Lights for Bad Weather

The latest products from Custom Dynamics feature yellow or amber lenses to help riders see, no matter what kind of weather conditions crop up. Why yellow or amber? Studies have shown that the wavelengths for yellow hit the eye’s retina at the sweet spot for processing. In simpler terms, it’s easy to see. Additionally, yellow light doesn’t reflect off water and dust particles in the air the way white light does, so glare is reduced. This not only helps a rider see better, but it can also reduce eye fatigue.

Custom Dynamics designed the High Power LED Driving Light for Harley-Davidson Dyna Softail and Sportster models. This auxiliary light bar is made from aluminum and has six high-power LEDs, and customers can choose a yellow lens for the setup. An included mounting bracket connects the driving light to the triple tree, and Custom Dynamics offers a plug-and-play wire harness for power. All in all, it’s a great way to get better visibility without needing to make big mods.

For riders who want dedicated fog lights, the ProBEAM Fog Lights are available with a yellow lens for maximum efficiency in bad weather. The lens is combined with Cree LEDs, which produce a superior beam pattern with a bright halo. The beam is adjustable, so it can be mounted vertically or horizontally and aimed for the best view of the road ahead.

Each fog light lens is 2.36 inches in diameter, and the beam fills in the dark area between the bike and the lowbeam headlamp. There are two fitments for the fog lights, including a universal one and another for 2014 to current Harley Touring models.

Another option for 2014 and newer Touring models are the Amber Run/Turn Lower Fairing Inserts. Custom Dynamics designed these inserts as a direct replacement for the Harley-Davidson lower fairing radiator grills or filler plates. Each side features 53 amber LEDs, and in addition to the amber running light, the inserts also act as full-contrast amber turn signals. The unit simply snaps into place, and the open honeycomb grill allows air to keep flowing.

When the weather is clear, bright white running lights are great for illuminating the road ahead. As we all know, though, the weather isn’t always great. Yellow or amber running lights can make a big difference in both visibility and eye fatigue when riding in fog, rain or dust.

Custom Dynamics also offers the ProBEAM Front Halo Turn Signals with an amber lens. These bullet-style front turn signal bulbs replace the stock one to provide an extra punch of light. The brilliance comes from 24 white LEDs in a halo design, which are enhanced by the patented reflector. The white LEDs function as a running light, while a cluster of 12 amber LEDs in the center act as the turn signal. ■

» Talk to your Drag Specialties rep to learn more about the latest yellow and amber lights from Custom Dynamics. Find them all in the FatBook and OldBook, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Custom Dynamics’ High-Power LED Driving Light has six bright LEDs. An included mounting bracket connects the driving light to the triple tree, providing great visibility.

For riders who want dedicated fog lights, the Custom Dynamics ProBEAM Fog Lights are available with a yellow lens for maximum efficiency in bad weather.

The Amber Run/ Turn Lower Fairing Inserts are a direct replacement for the Harley-Davidson lower fairing radiator grills. Each side features 53 amber LEDs.

Going Up Clubstyle Risers and Lift Kits for M8 Softails

The clubstyle look is popular in both Germany and North America, so it’s no surprise that one of the companies leading the way in that look is Kodlin USA.

Company co-founder Len Kodlin designed the new Fastback risers, and they add a big statement to any Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Softail. They are CNCmachined from billet aluminum and topped off with a black anodized finish. Riders can choose Fastback risers in heights of 6 inches, 8 inches or 10 inches, and all versions have a 1-inch bar clamp size.

The risers ship with all needed hardware and fit all 2018 and newer M8 Softails fitted with Harley-Davidson digital gauges (such as Softail Standard, Street Bob and Lowrider ST). These risers also work with the Koso D2 LCD Meter for riders who want to keep things sleek and high-tech.

The Kodlin Fastback risers look great on clubstyleoriented M8 Softails. To support this trend and for better ground clearance, Kodlin has launched another lift kit. In addition to the popular 1-inch lift kit, Kodlin designed a new lift kit for M8 models.

This latest design is ideal for the OEM M8 Softail extended shock used on 2022-2023 Lowrider S and Lowrider ST models as well as 2018-2023 Fat Bob models. The lift kit extends the shock mounting points by 15 mm (approx. 9/16-inch), which is the max lift for these models without hitting the swingarm.

Just like all Kodlin M8 Softail lift and lowering kits, these newest additions to the line come with pre-installed bearings and are very easy to install with a Kodlin M8 Softail shock compression tool. The steel shock compression tool is designed to ease installation of Kodlin lowering and lift kits, and it can be used to disassemble M8 Softail stock shocks for other projects.

Kodlin’s M8 Softail products have been a big hit with customers, and the company is continuing to grow the list of available products for this platform. Dealers can check in with their Drag rep regularly to learn about the latest M8 offerings from Kodlin.

As Kodlin USA has continued to grow its product offering and its presence in North America, so have the opportunities for dealers to stock Kodlin products. During the NVP Show in Louisville, Kentucky, Kodlin USA announced a distribution agreement with Drag Specialties and Parts Canada. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about the new Kodlin Fastback risers and other Kodlin parts for M8 Softails. You can find everything in the 2023 FatBook New Products section, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Fastback risers ship with all needed hardware and fit all 2018 and newer M8 Softails fitted with Harley-Davidson digital gauges. These risers also work with the Koso D2 LCD Meter.

Kodlin’s new Fastback risers add a clubstyle statement to any Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Softail. CNC-machined from billet aluminum, the Fastback risers are available in heights of 6 inches, 8 inches or 10 inches. All versions have a 1-inch bar clamp size.

Vintage Vibes

A Modern Tire Fit for Older Bikes

the ME888 in more than 90 sizes, including some of the most popular oversized choices for customs, so there is something to suit virtually every V-Twin. While the ME888 tire leans toward the “classic touring” category, the Metzeler Cruisetec is a hypermodern tire that combines the strength and styling of a V-Twin tire with the performance characteristics of a sport tire. The profile of the Cruisetec is inspired by Metzeler’s sport-touring profiles, with a steeper curvature that improves handling and agility in side-to-side transitions without sacrificing straight-line stability.

There’s a lot to appreciate about modern motorcycles, but vintage bikes tend to elicit a passion that something shiny and new off the showroom floor just can’t compete with. So, while it’s important to equip modern bikes with modern tires packed with performance features, those vintage bikes deserve quality rubber, too.

Metzeler knows this, which is why the ME888 Marathon Ultra and Cruisetec tires exist. The ME888 is an excellent choice for older and newer bikes, offering outstanding long-distance touring capabilities. Since it’s available in a wide range of sizes, it will fit just about any bike, including a full custom.

Meanwhile, the Metzeler Cruisetec tire is designed to keep up with the performance demands of modern V-Twins, allowing riders to experience everything those machines are capable of.

Since it’s a touring tire, the Metzeler ME888 is a great choice for riders who are really racking up the miles. The design and compound combination are geared toward longevity and excellent performance in the wet, which means the ME888 can handle all the distance and challenges of a cross-country trip. The tread pattern ensures efficient water evacuation, and it preserves wear uniformity for a smooth, predictable ride, mile after mile.

For vintage bike riders – or riders who want to give their modern bike a throwback look –the ME888 is available in a white wall version for that classic style. Metzeler offers

The dual-compound rubber of the Metzeler Cruisetec tire includes silica for fast warm-up and improved traction, even in cold or wet riding conditions. The softer shoulder compound is designed for exceptional grip levels both turning into and riding through corners.

Riders don’t have to worry that the Cruisetec will look too sporty for their V-Twin, though. The tread pattern and styling still have that classic V-Twin look, so riders can get the best of both worlds. To make it even sweeter, the performance aspects of the Cruisetec don’t compromise longevity. In testing, Metzeler found that the Cruisetec would match or even exceed the mileage a rider can expect from an OEM tire.

The Metzeler Cruisetec tire is available in a broad range of sizes to fit both Harley-Davidson and Indian models. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep to get more details about Metzeler’s ME888 and Cruisetec tires. You can find an expansive list of sizes in the Tire & Service Catalog, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

The Metzeler ME888 is a great tire for really racking up the miles. They are geared toward longevity and excellent performance in the wet, making them a great choice for a cross-country trip.

The Cruisetec is inspired by Metzeler’s sport-touring profiles, and offers great handling and agility in side-to-side transitions without sacrificing straight-line stability.

Liquid Metal Mercury Finish for Bagger Exhausts

Another month, another new product from Bassani Xhaust. That might seem like an exaggeration, but it’s not. The team at Bassani is always hard at work producing more fitments, finishes and designs for its V-Twin exhausts, and new part numbers are constantly being added to Drag Specialties as Bassani continues to grow.

The latest product from Bassani is the Road Rage 2-into-1 system for HarleyDavidson Milwaukee-Eight Baggers in a mercury finish. Also known as “black chrome,” the mercury finish has a gorgeous, dark sheen. This finish fits in nicely with the other two options for this exhaust, including chrome and black, since it blends those two into one beautiful look.

Each mercury Road Rage exhaust is MIG welded by hand for a beautiful craftsman look, and the fit and finish are precision engineered to make sure the exhausts flow perfectly with the lines of the bike.

Of course, it’s not just about looks when it comes to Bassani exhausts. Every Bassani exhaust is designed for maximum horsepower and torque as well as great looks. The company prides itself on engineering performance exhausts for riders who like to explore everything their V-Twin is capable of. The Road Rage 2-into-1 exhaust features stepped, equal-length headers that flow from a diameter of 1¾-inch into 17/8-inch to increase flow and improve performance.

The spiral-core louvered baffle and billet end cap are both removable for tunable sound. No matter how a rider chooses to set up their Road Rage exhaust, it will definitely have the distinctive roar of a Bassani. Each Road Rage exhaust comes with heat shields as well as any hardware necessary for mounting.

Like all exhausts from Bassani, this new Road Rage exhaust in mercury is made from quality steel sourced from American mills. Not only can riders take pride in having an American-made exhaust, but they can also ride

easy knowing the quality materials result in improved heat cycles and increased heat protection. Speaking of protection, things sometimes don’t go according to plan, and an exhaust can get damaged from an incident, like a tip-over. That’s why Bassani exhausts have a modular design. If one section gets damaged, it can simply be swapped out for a new one. There’s no need to replace the entire exhaust, saving the customer a lot of hassle and expense. ■

» Catch up with the latest products from Bassani by talking with your Drag rep. You can find all options for the Road Rage 2-into-1 exhaust for M8 Baggers in the FatBook, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Bassani’s popular Road Rage 2-into-1 system for Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight Baggers in now available in a mercury finish, also known as “black chrome.”

The Road Rage 2-into-1 exhaust features stepped, equal-length headers for increased flow and improved performance. The baffle and billet end cap are both removable for tunable sound.

Simpler Swap-Out Handlebar Upgrades

Made Even Easier

When Fat Baggers Inc. introduced its EZ Install Handlebar kits a couple years ago, changing handlebars on Harley-Davidson Baggers became much easier. Precious dealer shop time for handlebar modifications and installations was drastically reduced thanks to the EZ kit’s unique sectionalhandlebar design.

Now there’s more good news for dealers and their customers; changing a Bagger’s handlebars is now even easier and quicker to do thanks to Fat Baggers Inc’s new Plug & Play EZ Install Handlebars.

“The new Plug & Play EZ install system comes prewired to fit late-model Harley Bagger hand controls,” says Gary Chipp of Fat Baggers. “The range of EZ kits adds 177 new

part numbers to Drag Specialties’ FatBook.” Those new fitments specifically address 2014 to 2023 Harley Touring models, plus later Softails.

As with the original EZ Install kits, every new Plug & Play system comes packaged in easy-to-stack boxes that are convenient for shipping (lower delivery costs) and for store shelves (organized inventory and cleaner displays). Best of all, the handlebars are ready to install right out of the box.

EZ handlebar diameters range from 1¼ inches to 1½ inches, and each kit comes with a pre-installed genuine Harley-Davidson throttle-by-wire sensor. Fat Baggers pre-wired bars also accept OEM heated grips – every EZ Install handlebar kit includes a pre-installed rope to fish the wiring through the bars to the heated grips (when

“The new Plug & Play EZ install system comes prewired to fit late-model Harley Bagger hand controls,” says Gary Chipp of Fat Baggers Inc. The new handlebars feature Fat Bagger’s patented 2-piece design that’s known for its quick-and-easy installation feature.

EZ FIX FOR HARLEYDAVIDSON CLUTCH CABLES

Fat Baggers Inc. is a family-owned business that, since 1973, also owns and operates two Harley-Davidson dealerships. Access to those two dealerships allows FBI to respond quickly to market conditions that can lead to new and innovative products for Harley enthusiasts. That flexibility especially paid off for FBI users when, in 2021, Harley switched from hydraulic clutches to cable clutches for all Touring and Softail models. However, the updated clutch cable – a 2-piece design with a plastic adjuster clip – proved fragile.

Fat Baggers immediately realized the cable’s shortcoming when Harley owners began showing up at the two dealerships with their bikes suffering from damaged clutch cables. Turns out that when Harley routed the cable through the bike’s triple trees, additional stress was put on the cable adjusting stem and its plastic adjuster retaining clip. The problem occurred on stock motorcycles as well as those using Fat Baggers’ new EZ Install clutch extensions.

Fat Baggers also discovered that sliding the adjuster’s black cover upward created harmful side loads to the cable itself, resulting in fraying at the upper cable’s stem. Generally, the problem occurred during second service visits when new bikes are due for their initial (and routine) clutch adjustment.

Fat Baggers also discovered that the plastic adjuster clip could easily be stripped out, resulting in the clutch not working properly. By 2022 Harley attempted to improve the original 2-piece clutch cable design by increasing the metal adjuster body’s diameter, plus installing a much stiffer spring on the plastic adjuster clip. However, through customer feedback and testing, Fat Baggers found that the new stiff spring caused its own problems with the plastic clip holding.

applicable). The new handlebars still feature Fat Bagger’s patented 2-piece design that’s known for its quick-andeasy installation feature.

The new EZ install handlebar design also retains FBI’s original non-welded top corner section on the bars themselves. The machined section is made of billet steel that forms a smooth internal wiring cavity, eliminating damage to the internal wire itself. Handlebar heights range from 12 inches to 16 inches, available in the same configurations as before – round, pointed or flat top styles. Finishes include chrome or gloss black powder coat. ■

» Like all of Fat Bagger’s products, the new Plug & Play EZ Install Handlebars are made in the USA at FBI’s in-house manufacturing facility. Dealers can learn more from their Drag Specialties rep, and by checking out the FatBook and www.dragspecialties.com.

That led the company to design its proprietary repair part/adjuster upgrade for the 2021-2023 2-piece upper clutch cables. Fat Bagger’s upgrade proved to be a proactive solution that works on cables with stripped adjuster clips, or on cables with broken adjuster stems.

The company now recommends the use of this adjuster upgrade on all stock cables as a reinforcement, as well as using it with all EZ Install clutch cable extensions. Currently, Fat Baggers’ new plug-and-play design uses the OEM threaded cable adjusting design that Harley had used successfully for many years. Fat Baggers’ adjuster upgrade encapsulates the stem, and is made of steel with ½-20 threaded split adjuster that’s also good for easy roadside repairs if necessary.

This repair kit is available for 2018 to 2021 Softails and 2021 Touring models from Drag Specialties (p/n 0660-0013), and for 2022 to 2023 Softail and Touring models (p/n 0660-0014).

Control and Conserve Cable Kits and Crash Protection

Your customers love to customize their bikes to match their tastes and the particular ways that they’re used. Modification and personalization are a tradition in the V-Twin world, and whether your customers want to do something conventional like slap on a set of ape hangers, or they’re part of the latest generation of stunters in need of crash protection, Burly Brand has them covered.

Burly’s Gorilla Ape Hangers for 2021 and later HarleyDavidson Touring models totally alter the look and feel of your customer’s bike, but getting them installed can be a hassle since all the controls get relocated. Thankfully, Burly offers Control Kits that make installing its 14-inch, 16-inch, and 18-inch apes a breeze.

These kits come with everything needed to complete a handlebar installation, including a longer clutch cable and brake hose, plus an extension kit for the main wiring harness and fly-by-wire system. Burly even adds shrink tubing to the package. The same kits are offered for the 13-inch and 15-inch Bagger Bar, and all kits are offered in black vinyl or stainless steel, for both ABS and non-ABS applications.

When the controls get used a little too aggressively and things get messy, that’s when Burly’s Brawler Kits come into play. The new generation of drifting, wheelie-popping riders are using their Harleys in ways only Evel Knievel might have imagined, and it’s a use case that comes with a heightened level of risk. That’s why the Brawler Kits are designed to take serious abuse.

Formed from thick tubular steel with replaceable Delrin sliders, the Brawler Kits help protect Dynas, Softails and Sportsters from excessive damage. With a stout cage that wraps around the forward section of the frame and standoffs for the upper shock mounts, bikes can tip completely on their sides without critical parts touching the pavement. Gusseted and TIG welded for maximum strength, the Brawler Kits protect your customer’s bike in style.

Are your customers stunting a Bagger? Burly has Brawler Kits for them, too. The Brawler Kit for Baggers includes a crash bar for the front and crash bars to protect the bags, with upper and lower sliders to serve as sacrificial contact points.

Whether it’s a Sportster or a Street Glide, the Brawler Kits are a great mod for riders living on the edge. With a black powder-coat finish, clean lines, and subtle details like knurling and badging, these kits are as fashionable as they are functional.

Have customers that are looking to customize their bike’s cockpit or protect their ride from damage while mastering 12 o’clock wheelies? Get them in front of the Burly lineup and get them dialed in. ■

» To learn more about any of these products reach out to your Drag Specialties sales rep, and check out the FatBook and www.dragspecialties.com.

Formed from thick tubular steel with replaceable Delrin sliders, Burly Brand’s Brawler Kits help protect Harley-Davidson Dynas, Softails and Sportsters from excessive damage.

Burly also has Brawler Kits for Harley-Davidson Baggers. The Brawler Kit for Baggers includes a crash bar for the front and crash bars to protect the bags, with upper and lower sliders to serve as sacrificial contact points.

Servicing a Legacy Support for a V-Twin Icon

tensioner (implemented in 2007 and more durable, but still problematic) upgrading to any of S&S’s geardriven cams eliminates the issue.

Swapping to S&S gear-driven cams not only solves the notorious tensioner issue, it opens the door to upgraded lift that can totally change the character and performance of your customer’s bike. Do they want more torque, or more top-end power? S&S has a menu of cams to choose from, just pick a flavor.

For 96 and 106 CID motors that are stock or mildly modified with compression ratios between 9:1 and 9.9:1, the *551 cams greatly improve low-end and midrange torque. Got an 88 to 95 CID engine with high compression or a hot-rod big-inch engine? The *585 cams provide massive power gains that hold all the way to redline.

S&S also offers chain-drive cams for those who aren’t ready to make the jump to gears. One example is the popular *MR103 that is meant for 103 CID engines and offers more power across the rev range, with the best results between 2,500 and 5,500 rpm.

If your customers are already swapping cams, slapping in S&S’s legendary TC3 cam plate and TC3 oil pump are a no brainer. The stock parts often end up getting damaged from debris, reducing oil pressure that can lead to engine wear or failure. The TC3 components from S&S offer improved and more consistent lubrication that increases overall durability.

Have years of use worn out your customer’s cylinders? S&S offers stock-replacement parts as well as big-bore jugs for Twin Cams. On top of being constructed from high-quality materials, S&S replacement cylinders have thicker castings, larger cooling fins, and better wear resistance than stock cylinders. Keep the stock bore or go big with 4-inch or 41/8-inch options.

The Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight may be the latest and greatest from the Motor Company, but let’s not forget the nearly two decades that the Twin Cam ruled the roost. S&S Cycle surely hasn’t, and its commitment to the Twin Cam continues with a catalog of proven parts that increase power and reliability for Harley’s iconic Twin Cams, from the original 88s all the way up to the final Twin-Cooled models.

All Twin Cams come with chain-driven cams, and the stock tensioners are a known failure point. Whether it was an early spring-controlled tensioner (1999-2006, good for 30,000 miles, if you’re lucky) or the later hydraulic

S&S is so committed to the Twin Cam, it even offers complete replacement engines that incorporate all the incredible parts S&S has developed over the years, including *Easy Start cams, TC3 components, forged rocker arms, and more. The *T111, *T124, and pavement-rippling *T143 crank out big power and come with a 2-year warranty.

From complete engines to precision-ground cams, all S&S products are proudly made in the USA, just like they have been since 1958. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

For those customers still committed to their Twin Cam-powered HarleyDavidsons, S&S Cycle has a whole host of replacement and performance parts, including a *Power Package kit with all the goodies.

S&S builds performance v-twin engines with integrity, reliability and horsepower. Most come with a two year warranty and V-Series and TC are available in three finishes.

Great Grip Billet Footpegs

and Floorboards

Joker Machine’s serrated billet line also features floorboards for both driver and passenger locations. Available in both standard and mini sizes, these lightweight floorboards are robust and provide great traction for action.

to a minimum. The teeth of the serrated surface area provide just the right amount of bite for riders to feel the grip to their motorcycle without being too aggressive.

A unique component of Joker Machine’s footpegs is the proprietary pitch adjustment screw. Thanks to the two-piece construction, riders can quickly and effectively adjust the pitch of their footpegs, allowing them to achieve a more level and desired riding position and also helping to avoid unwanted peg movement from vibration over riding time. In fact, the adjustment is capable of a complete, 360-degree rotation, providing incredible adaptability for many Harley models.

Beauty can be found in the basics. In the world of motorcycling, the latest and greatest technology and other innovations have their place, but there’s no question that riders and enthusiasts of all levels appreciate the heritage of classic V-Twin building and customization. Joker Machine understands this and pays homage to the culture through its varietal line of USA-made components, including its latest footpegs and floorboards for Harley-Davidson models.

Designed to equip a wide range of riders and their styles, Joker Machine’s line of adjustable, serrated billet footpegs use fully CNC-machined 6061 billet aluminum construction throughout the line’s various shapes and styles. These serrated footpegs are offered in long, short, narrow, Stubby HD and even heel-style configurations.

The billet two-piece construction of Joker Machine’s footpegs allow them to maintain the high strength needed for such a critical component, while keeping the weight

As a finishing touch for the style factor, these footpegs are offered in black and clear anodized finishes. They install quickly and easily using stock mounting locations and fit most Harley-Davidson models using standard Harley peg mounts from 1972 to present, as well as a long list of Softails, Sportsters and more.

For your customers and riders that prefer a floorboard style footrest, Joker Machine’s serrated line expands into floorboards for both driver and passenger locations. Available in both standard and mini sizes, each of these floorboards share the same billet aluminum construction to continue the theme of optimized strength to weight.

For the driver position, riders have the option of going with a full-size floorboard at roughly 13-inches long by almost 5-inches wide, or they can go with Joker Machine’s mini size, taking it down to 5-inches long and 3-inches wide.

Regardless of the position, all Joker Machine serrated floorboards also feature the pitch adjustment screw system, helping riders and their passengers dial in the perfect resting position on their ride. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for more details and get more information in the FatBook, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

The unique two-piece design of Joker Machine’s pegs let riders quickly adjust the pitch of their footpegs, allowing them to achieve a more level and desired riding position.

Performance Minded A Company Driven by Power

Trask Performance is an industry leader in turbocharging Harley-Davidson motorcycles, but in the last 10 years the company has expanded its product line to include performance parts for many performance-based V-Twins. These same parts can be seen on some of the hottest custom bike builds around the globe.

The Assault Charge *High Flow Air cleaner was the first air cleaner that Trask developed, and its inspiration comes directly from the company’s turbo plenum design with its clear window. This high-flow air cleaner has become a staple for those customers looking for both style and performance, without sacrificing quality.

Because the turbo system is basically an exhaust system, Trask expanded production and designed its first naturally aspirated 2:1 exhaust system under the Trask band. The *Assault 2:1

and adding a sprocket. This was very labor and time intensive and due to demand, the company introduced a billet cush drive replacement with a steel sprocket that could be replaced or changed for additional gearing options. This provided a great solution for those performance-minded riders who were not interested in upgrading wheels just to run a chain.

was born to be a replacement exhaust system for stock V-Twin engines, making it a great option for those riders looking to add a little performance, an aggressive note along with a race inspired look to a new bike coming to the showroom floor.

Because Trask customers go for power moves first, the company needed to make sure it could get that power to the ground, and also strengthen any parts that are habitually the weak link. For a long while, there wasn’t a good option to run stock wheels with a chain drive, but Trask had experience modifying a stock cush assembly

The horsepower junkies at Trask also had experience building clutch baskets for HarleyDavidson V-Rods and after a spectacular burnout on one of its high-performance Assault Bikes, the company found out the stock V-Twin clutch basket wasn’t worthy of the power that setup was putting down. So, the team went back to the drawing board and built a clutch basket that was up to the task and then proved it by running it on some of the most powerful V-Twins out there.

This is just a small example of the evolution of the Trask Performance products and a bit of history showing how and why the company comes up with the parts it sells. These products are built with a purpose to look great and perform even better. ■

» Talk with your Drag rep for details about the Trask lineup and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Trask has a range of performance parts designed to coax maximum horsepower our of your customer’s V-Twin. The lineup includes the *Assault 2:1 exhaust and *Assault high-flow air cleaner.

Trask Performance’s billet clutch basket is designed for engines producing 100 horsepower or more.

Stand and Deliver A Growing List of Replacement Kickstands

Drag Specialties’ new kickstands are offered in both stock length and 1 inch shorter than stock for a range of HarleyDavidson models. Made from steel, they come in chrome or gloss black powder coat.

The new Drag Specialties kickstands are offered in both stock length and 1 inch shorter than stock for a range of HarleyDavidson models. The kickstands are all made from steel, and customers can choose from a chrome or gloss black powder coat.

These kickstands are perfectly designed and sized to replace the OEM kickstand, adding a bit of aftermarket flash to a part that is often overlooked. The lengths that are one inch lower than stock are great for bikes with lowered suspension.

Another new product in the Drag Specialties lineup is a chrome center stand, which lets a bike stand tall for ultimate showing off. Admittedly, though, it’s not all about looking good from every angle – the center stand makes it easier to clean and service the bike, and parking is easier when space is tight.

The new Drag Specialties chrome center stand makes it easier to clean and service a bike, and parking is easier when space is tight. It features adjustable feet and a bolt-on design.

The adjustable feet on the center stand enable the rear tire to be lifted off the ground, another bonus for servicing the bike. The bolt-on design is carefully engineered so there is no loss of lean angle. These latest products join an already extensive line of kickstands and related products offered by Drag Specialties. One quick look at the FatBook and OldBook will show that there are a lot of kickstand fitments in stock lengths as well as 1 inch taller and lower.

For bikes that need a whole new kickstand assembly, Drag offers complete kickstand kits that include absolutely everything necessary for installation, like the kickstand bumper, spring, pivot pin with bushings and a pin retainer clip.

Kickstands and center stands certainly aren’t the most glamorous parts of a motorcycle, but your customers sure would be in a bind if they didn’t have them installed. So, if it has to be there, make sure it looks good.

Drag Specialties already had an extensive list of kickstands and related components, but that list just got even bigger with the addition of more kickstands and a new center stand.

At the same time, Drag also has individual components available, like springs, bushings and even a weld-on kickstand mount. A variety of extensions can be added to the existing kickstand to make hard-to-reach kickstands easier to operate. As expected, those options come in black or chrome. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep to find out more about the new kickstands from Drag Specialties. You can find all the products in the FatBook, OldBook and at www.dragspecilaties.com.

Pure Rider Comfort Redesigned Forward Controls

BDL recently updated its line of GMA forward controls with new mounting brackets, with attention to adjustability for improved rider comfort.

As before, BDL’s GMA-brand forward control master cylinder has a 3/8-24 thread pattern for its banjo bolt that exits from the master cylinder’s inner left front side, making for a compact and clean design. These forward controls are easy to install and give any older Softail a new look. Matching round or flat foot pegs, plus clevises, are available and sold separately through the OldBook. The GMA forward controls come in three finishes – show chrome, black or polished finish, each presenting a show-quality appearance. ■

BDL recently updated its line of GMA forward controls with noteworthy modifications that targeted specific customer requests. Major changes included new mounting brackets, with attention to adjustability for improved rider comfort. Left unchanged was the use of rugged yet lightweight 6061T6 billet aluminum to form strong and reliable forward controls and master cylinder assembly.

Foremost in the update, BDL completely reshaped the forward controls’ mounting brackets to create a lower profile and unique, cleaner appearance. Additionally, forward controls now feature a splined shift shaft, and shift shaft arm with pinch bolt, giving plenty of indexing options for improved and friendlier rider ergonomics. The shaft is larger in diameter, too, and it’s supported by an oil impregnated bronze bushing pressed into the left side mounting bracket.

BDL also fit an adjustable actuating rod with clevis design for the rear brake pedal, while retaining the existing adjustable indexing foot lever. The sum total of those modifications make it easier to adjust both the right-side brake pedal and the left-side shift lever for improved ergonomics.

Specifically, these forward controls fit standard HarleyDavidson FX- and early FL-style frames that have three-hole left side and two-hole right side mounting locators (although GMA originally called out only 1986 to 1999 model years for this fitment, the updated parts actually fit earlier Harley models, too). Keep in mind, though, that 1970s Shovelhead models with this forward control application require a modified voltage regulator mount, which is also available through Drag Specialties’ OldBook catalog.

TAKE A BRAKE

To complete that disc brake conversion for Shovelhead models, BDL offers rear brake calipers and brackets to fit 10-inch and 11½-inch rotors. Each kit is available through the OldBook (Drag Specialties p/n 1701-0183 for 10-inch rotors and p/n 1701-0188 for 11½-inch rotors) for easy bolt-on conversion.

Kits come with mounting bracket and hardware, a brake caliper ready to mount and accept a hydraulic brake line to the master cylinder, and a sturdy mounting bracket that matches the forward controls. The aluminum assembly comes in black, chrome or a clear anodized finish.

» Dealers can learn more about BDL’s GMA forward controls by contacting their Drag rep, checking the OldBook, and by going to www.dragspecialties.com.

Security Duty V-Twin Products for

Safe Storage

Father and son team Rick and Shane Riffel are longtime V-Twin riders, which means they know how easy it can be for luggage or essentials to get misplaced. Their company, RickRak, makes a range of products, from luggage to a GoPro mount, but the products share a common theme: they’re all quality items designed to keep things safe and secure.

On the smallest end of things is the Gas Kap Keeper, a little item that can prevent big headaches. A rubber-covered magnet mounts to the gas cap, so when it’s time to refuel, the cap will stick securely to any metal part of the bike. This prevents the cap from being dropped, lost or scratching the paint on the tank.

Riders who want to record their journey can confidently use the GoPro Deluxe 360 Mount. It allows a full range of motion so the camera captures just the right angle. The clamp mount latches onto handlebars or engine guards for even more choice of placement, and the secure fit means the GoPro will stay put.

RickRak is the name of the company, but it’s also the name of the product that launched the business. The RickRak luggage rack includes a locking system that provides an extra layer of security while riding, and it acts as a theft deterrent. With the RickRak, there is no need for straps or bungee cords. The hardware used to attach luggage or other items to the RickRak are included in the package, making it easy to load up and ride out.

When it comes to saddlebag security, RickRak offers the SureKlik Saddlebag Safety Bolt Kit. These bolts can’t be

easily popped off, making saddlebags less vulnerable to theft or to just plain falling off.

RickRak luggage like the Functional Saddlebag and Tour Pak Luggage go great with the RickRak and the safety bolts. Both options are actually suitcases designed to fit either a saddlebag or a Tour Pak. The carry handles let a rider grab their suitcase and go, and the bags zip all the way open so they lay flat.

Riders who have a lot to carry can opt for the RickRak Top Dekk II premium roller bag. This roller bag is made from UltraMax fabric for maximum UV protection, and it holds its shape even when empty. The Top Dekk II is easy to attach to a RickRak luggage rack, and it can carry as much as 73.5 liters of gear when extended.

While luggage usually brings to mind items like clothing and rain gear, Rick and Shane know riders need a way to tote around food and beverages, too. The Saddlebag Kooler will fit most large saddlebags, and the removable, insulated inner liner keeps things cool. A double zipper up top makes it easy to access the contents. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about RickRak V-Twin products. You can also find them all in the FatBook, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

RickRak’s Tour Pak luggage combo kit showcases the company’s sturdy bags and lockable rack.

RickRak also offers such handy items as Gas Kap Keeper, a rubber-coated magnet that attaches to a gas cap allowing it to be securely attached to a bit of metal while filling up.

Better Breather Upgrades for Milwaukee-Eights

Want to help your customers prevent oil carry over and improve engine performance? Point them towards Feuling’s new Cylinder Head Breathers for the Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight. This easy upgrade helps keep air filters and intakes dry and also improves crankcase vacuum for better ring-seal and overall engine performance.

The stock M8 breathers are made from plastic and can be problematic. Feuling recognized the deficiencies of the stock parts and has solved them. Feuling’s breathers are machined from 6061 aluminum that’s impervious to heat, and they use square sealing surfaces to promote full contact of the umbrella valve. A longer main breather exit with dual O-rings offers better sealing, and isn’t going to break if the unit has to be removed and re-installed.

Speaking of removal and installation, the stock breather is likely to get pulled any time top-end work is done, so Feuling’s Breathers are an excellent add-on to any bigbore, cams, or cylinder-head job. An efficient, properly functional breather system is crucial to engine operation,

Feuling’s Cylinder Head Breathers are a great update for Milwaukee-Eight motors.

so anyone interested in improving performance is a good candidate for this kit, which includes billet breather housings, billet covers, breather-filter elements, umbrella valves, and quality hardware. ■

» These high-quality breathers are now available through Drag Specialties, so reach out to your Drag rep for more details. More information can also be found in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

ONE WAY UMBRELLA VALVE PROMOTES INCREASED SEALING SURFACE AND EASY SERVICEABILITY OVER STOCK ASSEMBLY

Comfort, Not Conformity Seats Made for Having Fun

And, when a rider isn’t showing off, the KickFlip and TailWhip provide plenty of comfort thanks to LePera’s specially poured and formulated high-density Marathon molded foam as well as ample back support for the driver. The KickFlip has an 11-inch-wide driver seating area, and the TailWhip is even larger, with a width of 12¼ inches.

The word “fun” isn’t something one normally associates with motorcycle seats, but that’s exactly what the KickFlip and TailWhip seats are. LePera Motorcycle Seats now offers both seats for the Low Rider S with the company’s distinctive TrackPleats stitch design.

Both the KickFlip and TailWhip seats were designed for riders who don’t want to conform but still want comfort. These seats are ideal for riders who like to have fun and show off – there are plenty of ways to use the seats without actually sitting on them!

The two seats have a 7-inch width for the passenger seating area, and the TailWhip is especially comfortable for a passenger because of the “whipped-up” tail design that gives the seat its name.

In addition to fun, style and comfort, the KickFlip and TailWhip seats also have LePera’s iconic steel base, which ensures a perfect, contoured fit on the motorcycle. The natural dampening characteristics and tough-but-beautiful powder coated surface are enhanced by a carpeted bottom. Every LePera seat is a beautiful, handcrafted piece. ■

» Talk to your Drag Specialties rep to learn more about the LePera KickFlip and TailWhip seats for the Low Rider S. You can find them in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

LePera’s fun, functional and comfortable

TailWhip seat in the TrackPleat stitch design.

Weathering the Storm Premium Rain Wear in Mix-and-Match Sizing

April showers bring customers in search of rain gear, and NelsonRigg’s premium-level Solo Storm 100 percent waterproof rain wear is packed with features – too many to list here, in fact!

The Nelson-Rigg Solo Storm rain wear collection now offers all riders the choice to mix and match their sizes since the jacket and pants are sold separately. This way, riders who are one size on top and another on the bottom don’t have to compromise for the best fit.

Since Solo Storm rain wear is designed to go over a riding jacket and pants, sizing corresponds to the size of the rider’s gear, so if a rider wears a size large jacket, then they will choose the size large Solo Storm jacket. Full sizing runs from S to 4XL for both.

The Solo Storm jacket and pants are made from soft, durable polyester oxford that is PVC-free. A polyurethane

backing and electronically taped seams ensure a waterproof seal.

The jacket includes an adjustable ventilation panel, a self-fastening storm flap and a hood that rolls into the soft collar, which tucks underneath the rider’s helmet for complete coverage. Color options include orange, black and highvisibility yellow.

The pants feature heat-resistant panels inside both legs to protect against brief contact with hot pipes. The same material has been added to the seat to reinforce strength and water resistance. The oversized hook-and-loop leg panels fold back easily and securely to stay tight against the rider’s leg. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep to learn about Nelson-Rigg’s Solo Storm rain wear. Find it in the Helmet & Apparel catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Nelson-Rigg’s Solo Storm rain gear collection lets riders mix and match their sizes since the jacket and pants are sold separately.

Halting a Harley Modern Brakes Pads for Older V-Twins

EBC’s FA pads are OE-quality replacement brake pads that are manufactured in the UK using the latest technology and friction-material formulas. The E327 friction material has been implemented in over 40 millions sets of brake pads worldwide and has been one of EBC’s most popular options for over 15 years.

The E327 material used in the FA pads is a great fit for older Harleys as it offers a progressive lever feel and reduces rotor wear. The pad material, which is made from a blend of man-made fibers such as aramid and Twaron, is a great, soft option. This means the FA pads are gentle on rotors and have a less aggressive initial bite that is preferred by many riders.

Finding original parts to repair or maintain an old bike is a worthwhile endeavor, but when it comes to brake pads, NOS is just a bad idea. Thankfully, EBC’s FA pads pack the latest technology into a package designed for older Harley-Davidson models. With applications dating as far back as 1970s Sportsters, your customers are sure to find the pads they need.

With EBC pads, your customers are getting high-quality products that are backed by stringent testing. Besides extensive internal evaluation, EBC’s FA pads also undergo third-party verification and are R90 approved. ■

» EBC’s FA pads are in stock and ready to ship. Talk to your Drag Specialties sales rep to learn more, and check them out in the FatBook, the OldBook and www.dragspecialties.

WHAT’S STOPPING YOU?

EBC’s FA pads pack the latest technology into a pad designed for older HarleyDavidson models.

Classic Styling

Old School Grips

One way to capture the old-school look for a Harley-Davidson or custom build is to equip the bike with new hand grips. That sounds contradictory until you consider that Avon Grips offers a complete line of old-style handgrips to fit 1-inch diameter handlebars for Harleys and other bikes. That includes throttle-side handgrips for traditional braidedwire throttle cables and throttle-by-wire configurations for fuel-injected bikes.

As for their old-school styling, the hand grips resemble those originally found on Harley’s early-era Big Twins such as the fabled Knucklehead, Panhead and Shovelhead models, as well as Sportsters. Fittingly, Avon Grips touts its new hand grips as Old School, and they come in a variety of colors ranging from traditional Black to White. More flamboyant colors include Red, Sparkling Red, Sparkle Blue and Tan for owners to choose from for a true custom or old-time look.

The colorfast grips are made of durable Kraton rubber that won’t dry, crack or harden over time, nor will the handgrips’

coloring stain or rub off on a rider’s hands or gloves. Grips are molded in the classic “soda bottle” configuration that’s associated with classic early-era Harleys. Patterns include traditional, waffle and jackhammer, depending on the specific model and part number. ■

» Like all Avon Grips, the Old School grips are made in the USA., and are available now through Drag Specialties. Dealers can check with their Drag Specialties reps, and check out the FatBook, the OldBook and www.dragspecialties.com.

Avon Grips adds vintage styling with its Old School grips.

Spray-On Shield Detailer to Shine and Protect

Ordinary spray-on detailers are great – to a point. With a lot of silicone in their formulas you can wipe them on and everything looks bright and shiny, until it doesn’t. After as little as an hour in the sun, UV rays will have evaporated that detailer off, setting the look back to square one and exposing the surface to the elements.

Cycle Care’s C6 Detailer changes all that. More than a silicone-based detailer, C6 is infused with carbon, a hard and strong pure element. C6 molecularly bonds to the surface it’s applied to, its organometallic, silicon-dioxide compound creating a permanent molecular bond to a vehicle’s surface to achieve maximum hardness, durability and a shine that lasts.

C6 won’t wash away or break down, its nano-carbon elements creating a singular-element coating that fills in all the imperfections of a factory clear coat, adding extreme protection against UV rays, acid rain, bird droppings, road salt, environmental pollutants, alkalies, and solvents.

This advanced formulation wasn’t created overnight. Cycle Care invested years of chemical research to create C6 Detailer’s protective coating, developing and manufacturing it in the USA. A C6 carbon-infused finish doesn’t degrade and wash away, so the easily applied, high-gloss shine and durable, hydrophobic all-around protection is there for the long haul. ■

» For more on this and other bike care formulas from Cycle Care, talk with your Drag Specialties rep for details, and learn more in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Cycle Care’s C6 Detailer provides a high-gloss shine and durable, hydrophobic all-around protection.

Extra Fuel When it’s Needed Most Gas on the Go FUEL

Every rider has been there. Out on some long, lonely stretch of road and not a turnoff or gas station in sight. The fuel gauge is bouncing around “Empty” and the bike’s already running in Reserve. It’s crunch time, feathering the throttle in hopes of coaxing every last mile out of the fumes left in the tank. A full REDA Gas Can in the saddlebag, maybe even two with one in each bag, will take away all that worry. Designed specifically for Harley-Davidson saddlebags, they’re shaped to fit perfectly in that back, hard-to-reach spot inside and each REDA Gas Can holds a gallon of gas. Plenty enough to put a customer’s mind at ease knowing they’re not going to end up on the side of the road with a thumb in the air.

REDA Gas Cans are cheap insurance against getting stranded out on the highway. They’re tough and EPA and CARB certified. The cans are made from high-quality materials, they’re built to last and they’re 100 percent vapor-proof and spill-proof, eliminating any concern about fumes or spilled gas in the saddlebag,

Riders might not need to pack along a REDA Gas Can every time they take a Harley out for a spin. However, when it’s a long-distance run in the offing having that extra gallon or two of gas along for the ride can significantly boost the confidence level of getting there without a hitch. ■

» REDA Gas Cans are available at Drag Specialties. Talk with your Drag rep for details and find them in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.

The REDA Gas Can holds 1 gallon and is designed to fit snugly inside a Harley-Davidson saddlebag.

Be Flexible Comfortable, Durable Riding Glasses

Riding gear has to be tough, and eyewear is no exception. Forceflex riding glasses are both tough and flexible, making them ideal for riders who want eyewear that is as comfortable as it is durable.

The Forceflex FF4 and FF5 glasses feature patented flexible technology, which absorbs impacts better and allows the Forceflex frames to bend instead of break. The lightweight frames are designed to eliminate pressure points, and they automatically adjust to any head size for a more secure fit. Those features combined with the flexibility allow Forceflex glasses to be comfortable on even the longest of rides.

Forceflex lenses feature TXS Optics for zero distortion across the entire lens. The lenses are infused with Intrablock to permanently block all UVA, UVB and UVC rays. An anti-fog, anti-scratch coating tops off the lenses.

The Forceflex FF4 glasses include a removable vented, molded foam frame-liner for both comfort and reduced wind turbulence. These ultra-light glasses are rimless and have a wraparound style.

Riders who want a more traditional look can opt for the Forceflex FF5 glasses, which have rectangular lenses and sleek styling.

Forceflex glasses are actually derived from the first flexible swim goggles. The company that invented flexible goggles has become a powerhouse in the eyewear industry, and flexible glasses like the Forceflex are just one of many innovations that have earned the company awards and accolades worldwide. Forceflex riding glasses are available with clear or tinted lenses, and the frames are offered in different color combinations. ■

» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about Forceflex glasses and find them in the Helmet & Apparel catalog, and at www.dragspecialties.com.

Forceflex FF5 glasses are designed to bend instead of break.

Quality Control

Brake Lines, Cables and Handlebars

Magnum Shielding and its employees know that quality matters. Recognized worldwide as a premier manufacturer of matching braided brake lines and control cables, Magnum has a history of quality stretching back more than 40 years. That mindset has resulted in Magnum’s continuing status as a Tier-1 Supplier to Harley-Davidson P&A and as a Drag Specialties supplier since 1995.

The company’s ISO-based Quality Management System, Engineering Department, and vertical integration of inhouse processes enables Magnum to control quality and costs at every level. This is why Magnum is known for its ability to consistently deliver premium looking products with reliable fitment and performance to the HarleyDavidson aftermarket.

To support the company’s commitment to the industry, most of the manufacturing processes necessary to control quality take place directly in-house. This investment ensures the consistent construction and fitment reliability of all brake lines and cables. Plus, your customers can be assured that the braid finishes will always look the same for Sterling

Wire braiding is just one of Magnum Shielding’s in-house manufacturing processes designed to ensure quality and control costs at every level.

Chromite, Black Pearl, Karbonfibr, and Polished Stainless upgrades whether purchased today, next month or next year.

Magnum raises the bar even further by manufacturing its own ABS and non-ABS brake hoses in-house for its many brake line offerings. The company’s vertically integrated capabilities include wire fabrication, Kevlar® twisting and winding, braiding, extruding, induction brazing, tube bending, polishing, and DOT FMVSS-106 compliance testing. ■

» Talk to your Drag Specialties rep about Magnum’s product lines and its reputation for quality to ensure the total satisfaction of your customers. Learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.

DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS

OVAL BACKREST PADS FOR SQUARE SISSY BARS

» Fit 9/16˝ x 2˝ thick Drag Specialties sissy bars and most HD sissy bars with a 4˝ wide ID

» Pads measure 7 1/2˝ H x 10 1/2˝ W x 2 1/4˝ thick

» Feature automotive-grade vinyl on the sides and in contact area

» All styles come with two black powdercoated 12-gauge steel brackets and four 1/4˝ x 20 screws

» All necessary mounting hardware included

» Made in the U.S.A.

PART # DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL

0822-0446 Double-diamond stitch w/ black thread $124.95

0822-0447 Double-diamond stitch w/ silver thread 144.95

0822-0448 Double-diamond stitch w/ red thread 144.95

DRAG SPECIALITIES

530 CHAIN DRIVE CONVERSION KITS

» Converts the stock belt drive to chain drive

» Reuses the existing cush drive isolator

» Kits include aluminum sprocket hub adapter plate, spacer, bearing assembly, 24-tooth steel front sprocket, 51-tooth rear steel sprocket and necessary installation hardware

» Front sprockets feature 3/4˝ offset

» Replacement components available separately, see the 2023 Drag Specialties FatBook

FOR 17-22

FLHT/FLHR/FLHX/FLTRX/FLTRU/FLTRK MODELS WITH CUSH DRIVE

IGNITION SWITCH AND IGNITION SWITCH/FORK LOCK KITS

» High-quality, OEM-style replacement ignition switch or ignition switch/fork lock switch

» Switches are 3-position type

» Two keys included

PART # DESCRIPTION

2106-0575 For 94-11 XL (switch only); repl. OEM #71441-94

2106-0576 For 07-11 XL (switch and fork lock); repl. OEM #48154-05A

MATTE BLACK CLUTCH/BRAKE LEVER ASSEMBLIES

» Die-cast aluminum construction with OEM-style clamps

» Master cylinders accept OEM-style rebuild kits and have clearance for use on 1 1/4˝ diameter handlebars

» Clutch and brake hydraulic master cylinder bore is 15mm

» Sold as a set

PART # DESCRIPTION

SUG. RETAIL 0610-2198 For 17-19 FLHTKL/FLHTCUI; 17-20 FLHXSE, FLHR, FLHX, FLHTKSE, FLHTK, FLHXS, FLHRXS; 19-20 FLHTI, FLHTCUTG

SADDLEMEN

ADVENTURE TOURING SEATS

» Helps riders rack up miles in purpose-built comfort and style

» Integrated GelCore™ technology reduces engine vibration reaching the rider by up to 50% and aids in dampening road shock by up to 90%

» Proprietary whisper-grain Saddlehyde™ cover adds more comfort and protection from the elements

» Installs easily, all necessary mounting hardware and instructions included

» Available in standard or low seat height (low height measures approximately 3/4˝ lower than stock seat height and moves the rider approximately 3/4˝ forward from the stock seating position)

» Made in the U.S.A.

FOR 21-22 RA1250/1250S PAN AMERICA

SLYFOX

GAUGE HOUSINGS

» Specific-fit housings for SlyFox handlebar risers with top mount bracket

» Billet aluminum construction

» Mounts to front or back of the risers

» Adjustable tilt

» Compatible with the stock gauges or Dakota Digital gauges for models/years listed

» Made in the U.S.A.

FOR 15-22 FLTRU/FLTRX/FLTRXS MODELS

HOGTUNES

XL SERIES 2-OHM 5˝x7˝ LID SPEAKERS

» Made to fit all years of the OEM factory saddlebag speaker lids, and most aftermarket speaker lids with 5˝ x 7˝ speakers

» Offer superior bass response and overall higher sound quality, especially at riding speeds

» Multi-stacked magnet assembly for improved high-power audio handling

» Carbon fiber woofer cone and titanium-impregnated 1˝ tweeter

» Features standard spade connectors and factory-style HD plug for easy replacement

» 120-watt, 20-ohm rated

» Water cannot pass through the speaker body

» Sold in pairs

KODLIN

REAR LOWERING KIT

» Drops the rear height of the motorcycle approximately 1˝ from stock

» Steet construction with a black powdercoat finish

» Installation does not require modifications to the stock suspension, no shock compression tools required

» Installation instructions included

» Made in the U.S.A.

KHROME WERKS

4.50˝ HP-PLUS® SLIP-ON ECLIPSE MUFFLERS

» Engineered for performance, style and sound

» Produce the Khrome Werks signature authoritative tone without annoying high-frequency noises

» 4.50˝ 16-gauge steel muffler bodies

» Absorptive baffle covered with stainless steel mat and high-temperature fiberglass

» Improved torque and horsepower from the first hit of the throttle

» Billet aluminum muffler tips can be rotated 360° at 90° increments; feature a high-temperature powdercoat finish

» Additional muffler tip styles available separately

» Optional Ripper baffles (sold separately) boost low-end performance and enhance sound

» Bolt-in optional inserts available to make mufflers compliant with SAE J2825 sound tests (sold separately); inserts do not restrict performance

» Mufflers sold in pairs

» Made in the U.S.A.

NOTE: NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA ON ANY POLLUTION-CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLES.

FOR 17-22 FLHT/FLHTK/FLHX/FLHR/FLTRX/FLTRU/FLTRK MODELS

JOKER MACHINE

ADJUSTABLE SHIFT RODS

» CNC-machined billet aluminum construction

» Rod can be rotated to display race-inspired lightweight cutouts or solid bar style when installed

» Allows shift peg height adjustment of up to 3/4˝ from stock position

» Made in the U.S.A.

FOR 15-22 INDIAN SCOUT, 18-22 INDIAN SCOUT BOBBER MODELS

BILTWELL INC.

RAGLAN T-SHIRT

» Vintage styling

» Detailed with hand-screened, water-based inks

» Screen-printed label eliminates irritating collar tag

» Made in the U.S.A.

CIRO

FANG® LOWER FAIRING LIGHTS

» Ultra-bright LED technology gives a radiant, uniform wide spread of light

» Function as white running lights and amber turn signal accents/marker lights

» Polycarbonate clear lens

» 180° side-to-side light pattern

» Does not restrict airflow when installed

» Plug-and-play wiring

» Sold in pairs

FOR 14-19 FLHTCU, 14-22 FLHTK, 14-21 FLHTKSE, 14-22 FLHTCUTG, 15-16 FLHTCUL, 15-16 FLHRUSE, 15-19 FLHXSE, 16-19 FLTRU, 20-22 FLHTCUTGSE, 20-22 FLTRK, 22 FLTRKSE

SPOON-STYLE SEAT FOR EARLY FX/FL/FLH MODELS

The Spoon-style seat lowers the driver 1" from the stock seat. The seat features solar-reflective leather in the seating area which reduces the surface temperature by as much as 25 degrees, for a cooler seat. The ABS thermoformed seat base and molded polyurethane foam provide the perfect fit with maximum comfort.

Available in Classic stitch. See the complete selection at seats.dragspecialties.com.

Additional coverings, thread colors and stitch patterns are available through our custom order program.

seats.dragspecialties.com

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