News and stories from the world of Powersports business.
Husqvarna Factory Racing Extends Contract with FMF Racing for a Further Two Years
Husqvarna Motorcycles is excited to announce an extension to its highly successful partnership with FMF Racing. With the existing contract extended through to the end of 2025, Husqvarna Factory Racing will continue to benefit from the American company’s performance enhancing exhaust systems for the next two years.
Formed in 1973, FMF Racing celebrated 50 successful years in the offroad industry in 2023. As a brand synonymous with top level dirt bike competition around the world, FMF Racing continues to work closely with Husqvarna Factory Racing to develop its high-quality line-up of components.
Since the partnership began there have been many triumphs. Zach Osborne claimed two AMA 250 Supercross championships while Jason Anderson clinched Husqvarna’s first AMA 450 Supercross title in 2018. Osborne would add another title, the coveted AMA Pro Motocross 450 title, in 2020.
In the demanding world of enduro, Colton Haaker won the 2015, 2016, and 2019 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship with Billy Bolt undefeated in the same series since winning his 2020 campaign. Billy would also find success outdoors in 2021 when he was crowned the inaugural FIM Hard Enduro World Champion.
With the technical partnership between Husqvarna Motorcycles and FMF Racing extended for a further two years, Husqvarna Factory Racing’s riders will continue to benefit from the US manufacturer’s high performance exhaust systems in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross, US Offroad Championships, MXGP with the Nestaan MX team, and in both the FIM Hard Enduro and SuperEnduro World Championships.
Robert Jonas – Vice President Motorsports Offroad: “Husqvarna Factory Racing has enjoyed so much success with FMF Racing throughout the partnership so far, and especially in recent years, so to renew for two more years is really exciting. The build quality of FMF components is as good as it gets with performance to match. Husqvarna Factory Racing competes at the highest levels of supercross, motocross, and enduro, and rely on dependable partners, which is exactly what FMF Racing is. With this renewed agreement, we look forward to the future and I’m sure that more racing success will continue to follow.”
Don Emler Jr. – Marketing Director FMF Racing: “It really is an honour for FMF Racing to continue our close relationship with Husqvarna Motorcycles and Husqvarna Factory Racing. The Flying Machine Factory is celebrating its 50th Year Anniversary and it’s with these long standing and successful partnerships that continue to make FMF the #1 offroad exhaust in the world. This renewal solidifies FMF’s continued support of the sport of motocross and performance. Going forwards, FMF will continue to work closely with the team and supply them with our American-made exhaust systems as they chase race wins and championships all around the world. This is the HOUSE OF POWER!.”
GASGAS Turns Up The Heat with All-New2024 MC 50 and MC 65!
Hot on the heels of GASGAS’ full-size dirt bike launch, we’re back with two awesome new 2-stroke mini bikes for 2024 – the MC 50 and MC 65. Our latest generation models, which are pretty much all new, will certainly spice things up for every youth rider out there. Headlining a massive list of exciting updates for both bikes are the adjustable ergonomics, as well as vibrant new bodywork, new motors, and new frames. Almost everything about each model has been improved to take the riding experience to the next level. Without doubt, they’re the hottest dirt bikes kids will ever need!
- GASGAS’ all-new generation MC 50 and MC 65 offer next-level performance
- Adjustable ergonomics allow each bike to be adapted as riders grow
- Check them out in GASGAS dealers worldwide from October 2023
Knowing kids grow fast, sometimes a little too fast, our engineers have made the MC 50 and MC 65 adjustable in size! This means youngsters can keep riding a familiar bike and really get the most out of it before jumping up to a bigger model. Plus, as both bikes are built in the same way as our full-size models with plenty of quality components, you just know that these little rippers are the real deal.
MC 50
A new motor creates a broader spread of power, which makes the MC 50 so much easier to ride. And with classic GASGAS styling carried down from our full-size range, it really is a seriously good-looking dirt bike! Everything about it, including the new ignition, cylinder head, exhaust, frame, and rear WP shock, combine to really boost the overall performance and handling of this awesome little 2-stroke.
Technical Highlights – MC 50
New and adjustable ergonomics – For the first time ever, the MC 50 features adjustable, child-specific ergonomics, which means the bike perfectly fits a wider range of riders. The bodywork, shock, and subframe can now be fitted in two positions, offering a seat height of either 634mm or 682mm. This allows smaller kids to start on a smaller bike, staying with the MC 50 as they grow in size and confidence.
New bodywork – Scaled down from our full-size bikes to create a unified look across the range, the new and all-red bodywork certainly looks the business!
New motor – With a slightly larger capacity of 49.9cc, the new motor creates a much broader spread of power when compared to the old generation. But make no mistake, this little motor is just as high revving and packs a real punch!
New frame – Replicating the design of our bigger bikes for ultimate strength, improved handling, and confidence-inspiring stability. The shock’s mounting position has also been moved to reduce the energy transferred through the frame for next level rideability.
New polyamide reinforced steel subframe – Strong, light, and height adjustable with two positions to accommodate growing riders while playing a vital role when it comes to the bike’s overall handling.
New cylinder head – Redesigned inserts made from two separate parts for simplified maintenance! And who doesn’t love that?
New ignition – The new digital ignition is largely responsible for the increased power and durability of the new MC 50.
New clutch – A reinforced basket means improved durability while the multi-disk clutch pack helps deliver smooth and predictable power.
New radiator – One larger radiator instead of two helps simplify the hose routing to improve cooling in all conditions.
New exhaust – With the welds on the inside smoothed over it makes for a noticeable power gain throughout the rev-range.
New WP XACT Rear Suspension – A shorter rear shock lowers the back end of the MC 50 to create a much more balanced chassis and is perfectly matched to the WP XACT front forks.
New footpegs – All-new design improves grip, prevents mud from building up, and stops them catching on deep ruts.
New handlebars and grips – A super modern bar bend improves body position and boosts technique while ODI grips offer maximum comfort.
New hour meter – For making sure routine maintenance stays on schedule.
Discover the full spec of the MC 50 here and watch it in action, here.
MC 65
For kids stepping up from the MC 50, our MC 65 is ready and waiting. As riding the MC 65 may well be the first time some kids throw a leg over a dirt bike with a clutch and transmission, our engineers designed both components to be easy to use and maintain a consistent performance. This, in addition to the unrestrictive ergonomics, more usable spread of power, and a perfectly balanced chassis, allows young thrill seekers to focus on what matters most – riding fast and having fun!
Technical Highlights – MC 65
New and adjustable ergonomics – For the first time ever, the MC 65 features adjustable, child-specific ergonomics which means the bike caters for more riders. The bodywork, shock, and subframe can now be fitted in two positions, which offers a seat height of either 715mm or 760mm. This allows shorter kids to start on the lower setting and keep riding the same bike for longer, which builds up their skills and confidence.
New bodywork – Scaled down from our full-size bikes to create a unified look across the range, the new and all-red bodywork certainly looks the business!
New motor – Much more powerful than the old generation and sets the bar even higher when it comes to 2-stroke performance!
New frame – Replicating the design of our big bikes for ultimate strength, improved handling, and confidence-inspiring stability. The shock’s mounting position has also been moved to reduce the energy transferred through the frame for next level rideability. Riders will also enjoy carving tighter lines through corners on the MC 65 thanks to its wider steering range.
New polyamide reinforced steel subframe – Strong, light, and height adjustable with two positions to accommodate growing riders while playing a vital role when it comes to the bike’s overall handling.
New cylinder head – Features redesigned inserts made from two separate parts for simplified maintenance! And who doesn’t love that?
New ignition – The new digital ignition is largely responsible for the increased power and durability of the new MC 65.
New clutch – A steel basket means improved durability while the diaphragm spring clutch self-adjusts to maintain performance.
New radiators – Two new Pankl radiators replicate the same design as used on our full-size GASGAS dirt bikes, just scaled down to fit the MC 65. These rads, in addition to a new coolant hose layout, keep the bike running super cool for maximum power and motor durability.
New exhaust – With the welds on the inside smoothed over it makes for a noticeable power gain throughout the rev-range.
New WP XACT rear suspension – A shorter rear shock with 253.5mm of travel lowers the back end to create a much more balanced chassis and is perfectly matched to the WP XACT front forks.
New footpegs – All-new design improves grip, prevents mud from building up, and stops them catching on deep ruts.
New shift lever – A scaled down version of what’s found on our full-size bikes, precise shifting in all conditions is super easy thanks to its clever design that prevents mud from building up around the tip.
New kickstart – A quick prod of the redesigned kickstart and the MC 65 fires into life. Simple!
New handlebars and grips – A super modern bar bend improves body position and boosts technique while ODI grips offer maximum comfort.
New hour meter – For making sure routine maintenance stays on schedule.
Check out the full spec of the MC 65 here and see it in action, here.
You’ll find GASGAS’ new 2024 motocross models in dealerships worldwide very soon – October for the MC 65 and November for the MC 50!
Suzuki is back at AIMExpo in 2024!
Suzuki Motor USA is thrilled to be back at AIMExpo in 2024! AIMExpo is the premier motorcycle industry event in the U.S. and Suzuki will once again have a major presence at the show, with exciting new models, breaking news, and lots of key information for consumers, dealers and the media.
Suzuki is building on the tremendous success of 2023 and expanding on that momentum as they head into 2024 with exciting new products, powerful new programs, a complete lineup of new genuine Suzuki accessories and apparel, and race winning Suzuki teams in all forms of racing.
“AIMExpo is a tremendous opportunity to connect with our existing dealer network, as well as potential new dealers who are interested in what Suzuki has to offer,” said Chase Rastegar, Communications Manager, Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. “Last year, we were excited to show off two all-new models seen for the first time at a show on American soil, the 2023 GSX-8S and V-STROM 800DE. For this year, we look to increase the momentum going into the show with a larger presence to showcase even more new models.”
In addition, Suzuki has some exciting new programs and opportunities and AIMExpo is a great venue for dealers to learn all about them.
“We look forward to celebrating the show’s tenth anniversary and honoring ten years of outstanding partnerships with industry leaders, including Suzuki,” said Cinnamon Kernes, vice president of market expansion and events. “We know OEMs are one of the key reasons dealers attend the show and we’re grateful that Suzuki has been part of the show since our launch in 2013, bringing new products, creating exclusive dealer activations, and recognizing the importance of bringing our industry together.”
The Suzuki booth will be located front and center at booth 5001 right as you enter the show and should be your first stop at AIMExpo 2024. We look forward to seeing all of you there at this exciting event to kick off the new year.
For a complete list of AIMExpo exhibitors, dealer education schedule, and to see the floorplan, go to www.AIMExpoUSA.com.
Industry e-Bike Throwdown to Electrify AIMExpo 2024
AIMExpo is teaming up with legendary Johnny Lewis and Moto Anatomy to create the Industry e-Bike Throwdown taking place during the AIMExpo Industry Party powered by Turn 14 on Tuesday evening, February 6, at AIMExpo.
“Dealers, exhibitors, media, and industry leaders will all be racing for industry-wide bragging rights in the final race,” said Johnny Lewis. “Our industry thrives on competition and is built on having a good time – this race night is going to be the perfect combination for all-out fun.”
“After a five-year hiatus we are bringing back Johnny and the Moto Anatomy team to run the AIMExpo Industry e-Bike Throwdown,” said Andre Albert, MIC director of marketing and events. “These races will create a great vibe during the Industry Party powered by Turn 14. We will cheer on our riders, discuss race strategy in the pits, and eagerly see who emerges as the champion. Things are going to get fast!”
The Throwdown will take place on the AIMExpo indoor e-Bike track and will consist of four classes: Dealers, Exhibitors, Media and a surprise class that will be announced closer to race night. Each class will race in brackets with the top rider in each race advancing to the next round, ultimately competing in a winner-take-all Throwdown. E-bicycles will be provided to ensure an equal playing field – riders only need to bring their competitive spirit and skills to conquer.
Competitors will also need appropriate gear including helmets. Rules and registration will be available next month – stay tuned.
Albert continued, “The last time we did something like this was in Columbus in 2019. The industry race, aboard e-Bikes, was so popular that every year since, people flood the AIMExpo team with requests to bring this event back. For AIMExpo 2024, we’re going to give the industry what they want! The competitive nature of our industry is going to be at full throttle during the Industry Party powered by Turn 14 where the Industry e-Bike Throwdown will be held. More important than the 1st place trophy, ultimate bragging rights will be on the line.”
Interested in making your brand part of the Industry e-Bike Throwdown? Reach out to Cinnamon Kernes at [email protected].
To date, more than 17 OEMs, four major aftermarket distributors, and hundreds of powersports companies have already committed to 2024. The more than 225,000-square-feet show floor at the Las Vegas Convention Center is already 95 percent sold out.
Additional show features include AIMExpo’s Disruptive Thinking stage, which will feature an impactful education program delivered by Motorcycle & Powersports News and AIMExpo, New Product Central, two e-Bike demo tracks, the Dealer Recharge Zone, the MIC Business Center, and more.
LiveWire Group, Inc. Reports Third Quarter Financial Results
LiveWire Group, Inc. (“LiveWire” or the “Company”) (NYSE: LVWR) today reported third quarter results.
“LiveWire took the next step in its journey in the third quarter of 2023 by delivering on a major milestone. With the shipment of the Del Mar, the first bike on the Company’s S2 platform, with its in-house developed battery pack, power electronics, motor, telematics, and associated software, enthusiasts can now join the LiveWire community at a price point nearly 35% below the prior model. The EV systems on the S2 platform demonstrate the Company’s commitment to delivering innovative products with the premium feel riders have come to expect from LiveWire. During the fourth quarter the Company will remain focused on the continued delivery of Del Mar and conversion of active reservations in the North American market while launching European reservations,” said Karim Donnez, CEO, LiveWire.
Third Quarter 2023 Business Update:
- Production commenced on Del Mar, the first bike on the Company’s S2 platform
- Continued investment in building retail network infrastructure to support Del Mar and future bikes, ending the quarter with 126 retail partners globally
- Continued product development of new models on the S2 platform
Read the entire post – https://investor.livewire.com/news-events-1/news/news-details/2023/LiveWire-Group-Inc.-Reports-Third-Quarter-Financial-Results/default.aspx
Harley-Davidson Delivers Third Quarter Financial Results
Harley-Davidson, Inc. (“Harley-Davidson,” “HDI,” or the “Company”) (NYSE: HOG) today reported third quarter 2023 results.
“Against a challenging macro and consumer backdrop, we have been able to achieve a result that preserves profitability at an industry leading level. In addition, we successfully launched our pinnacle CVO motorcycles, with CVO retail sales up 25%,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson. “Harley-Davidson remains committed to its Hardwire strategy with a focus on both desirability and profitability, and we will do everything possible to achieve our goals while being realistic that current market conditions are complex. We are gearing up for ’24 and will ensure that we are fully aligned and ready as we close out the year with Q4.”
Third Quarter 2023 Highlights and Results
- Strategy remains grounded in desirability and profitability
- Successful launch of two new CVO motorcycles, CVO retail sales up +25%, with new features aligning with consumer preferences
- HDMC Gross Margin of 31.7%
- HDMC Revenue declined 9%, behind a 20% decrease in wholesale shipments
- HDFS Revenue increased 15% on higher interest income
- LiveWire commenced production and launch of the Del Mar electric motorcycle
- Delivered diluted EPS of $1.38
- Company reaffirms its most recent full year 2023 outlook
Year-to-date 2023 Highlights and Results
- Achieved HDMC Operating Income Margin of 17.4%
- HDMC Revenue was up 2 percent versus prior year, with global pricing and improved mix offsetting lower wholesale motorcycle unit shipments
- Delivered diluted EPS of $4.65
- Repurchased $226 million of shares (6.1 million shares) on a discretionary basis
Read the entire post – https://investor.harley-davidson.com/news/news-details/2023/Harley-Davidson-Delivers-Third-Quarter-Financial-Results/default.aspx
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