News and stories from the world of Powersports business.
River Road Riding Gear Now Arriving at US Dealerships
River Road’s lineup of apparel for motorcycle riders is now arriving at motorcycle dealerships in the USA. While initially announced in Q3 2023, distribution of the River Road products took longer than planned.
Shortly after the introduction of the new line of riding gear, the River Road brand was acquired by Turn 14 Distribution, an established distributor in the automotive field but a newcomer to powersports. Turn 14 Distribution systems use the high standards of the automotive aftermarket (ACES and PIES), so onboarding of the distributor’s acquired and distributed brands included an upgrade to the data on product naming, tracking, fitment and describing product features. The use of these tools gives Turn 14 Distribution dealers more access to exactly the parts they need with greater efficiency for the dealership parts staff. Now with the upgrade in place for River Road, dealers have full access to all the riding gear from the latest product launch.
“We couldn’t be happier to have the new River Road line available in dealerships,” said Brent Ash, Brand Manager for River Road. “This product line is truly striking, with designs that are eye catching and features that meet our customer’s increasingly high demands. It’s exciting to finally get these products to riders and see them on the road.”
River Road’s new collection marks the return of the brand which launched in 1998. The products include both classic and modern-styled leather jackets and riding shirts, leather vests, gloves, chaps and helmets. This is the largest product launch ever for the River Road brand, with eight jackets styled for men and women, five styles of vests, four choices in chaps, twelve different styles of gloves and thirteen helmets. All of the apparel categories include products for men and women.
Many of the items are constructed using high-tech materials, such as breathable mesh fabric, Thinsulate insulation and Powerstretch gussets. Designs include plenty of pockets that snap or zip, articulated sleeves and removable liners. Prices are competitive with other brands of riding gear, while consumers will find more features and more tech in these River Road products.
River Road products are available from Turn 14 Distribution dealers around the country. The full line of River Road gear is shown on the company’s website.
Triumph Unveils Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition
Celebrating Elvis and the fascinating tale of his ‘Memphis Mafia’ Bonnevilles, Triumph Motorcycles has revealed a stunning T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition.
Combining authentic style, performance and modern capability, with a beautifully detailed design scheme, this distinctive T120 takes styling cues from Elvis’ most iconic ’68 ‘Comeback Special’ performance.
Unmistakable ELVIS gold lettering, representing set lights, together with Elvis Presley’s signature, feature prominently on the tank and side panels, while die-hard fans will find fascinating Elvis discoverables on the bike, including a discreet ‘Taking Care of Business in a Flash’ emblem. This was a personal mantra that captured his work ethic and the design featured on the necklace presented to each of his Memphis Mafia.
The rich Carnival Red colour scheme was inspired by the J Daar custom Bonneville created to raise money for the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation in 2023. And just like the Bonneville T120 TT which featured in Comedy Western ‘Stay Away Joe’ and the Bonnevilles which were gifted to the Memphis Mafia in 1965, the modern T120 retains the iconic Bonneville DNA, timeless silhouette and distinctive sculpted tank that so impressed Elvis.
Bonneville tank stripes in Aluminium Silver beautifully complement the striped mudguards, accentuated by hand-painted gold line detailing. A deep, high-quality chrome finish has been applied to carefully selected parts, including the sweeping twin skin exhaust with classic peashooter silencers, adding lustrous detail to this iconic model.
This special collaboration offers motorcycle and music fans an unprecedented opportunity to own their own piece of the Elvis and Triumph legend. Limited to 925 worldwide, the bikes feature a special numbered handlebar clamp with laser etched Elvis Presley signature, and each one will be presented along with a Sony gold disc, in an exclusive Elvis Presley and Triumph Motorcycles record sleeve, encasing a bespoke certificate of authenticity, signed by Triumph’s CEO Nick Bloor and Jamie Salter, Founder, Chairman and CEO of ABG, Elvis Presley Enterprises.
“It’s been incredible to see the customer reaction to the custom Bonneville that raised so much for charity earlier this year, and our search for the Memphis Mafia Bonnevilles, which has unearthed wonderful glimpses into the past,” said Triumph’s Chief Commercial Officer Paul Stroud. “With so much interest in the story so far, we’re confident our passionate customers will be thrilled at the chance to own this magnificent tribute to the biggest selling solo artist in history, when it arrives in dealerships in July.”
MEMPHIS MAFIA BONNEVILLES
Elvis’ introduction to Triumph Motorcycles was in 1965 while taking a break from filming and spending time with his closest friends, known as the ‘Memphis Mafia’, at his Bel Air home. Friend Jerry Schilling had ordered a new Triumph T120 Bonneville and Elvis took it for a ride around the neighbourhood. Elvis was impressed, and when he returned, he told his transportation manager, Alan Fortis, to “order one for all the guys, but…it has to be tonight!” Motorcycle dealers Bill Robertson & Sons managed to deliver seven Triumphs that night – two more followed soon after – and Elvis and his friends rode together around Bel Air late into the evening, only stopping when neighbours called the police to complain.
Triumph is on the hunt to track down the Bonnevilles, with several leads already adding to the dossier of evidence. One customer came forward to share that she was once the proud owner of Jerry Schilling’s Bonneville, and still has a registration document to prove it! Sadly, the bike, now repainted pink, had been sold years ago, but with the bike’s VIN confirmed, the search continues. Customers with any information relating to these bikes are asked to email the details to [email protected].
The Memphis Mafia story inspired a one-of-a-kind ‘Elvis Presley’ Triumph Bonneville motorcycle and matching Gibson Les Paul Guitar which sold for $20,000 at the Amelia Island Auction held by Bonhams|Cars earlier this year. The auction was in aid of the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation, who continue Elvis’ legacy of generosity by supporting numerous charitable causes.
AUTHENTIC MODERN CLASSIC DESIGN
The Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition features beautiful twin dial instruments, with an analogue speedometer, tachometer and integrated multi-function LCD screen that is striking, yet easy-to-read in all light conditions. Refined details such as the 3-bar classic tank badge and classic machined engine fins, are faithful to the iconic 1959 Bonneville.
TORQUE-RICH PERFORMANCE
Combining modern performance and efficiency with timeless character, the 1200cc parallel twin delivers a powerful, torque-rich performance, with the unmistakeable sound of a British twin and charismatic 270° firing interval. Specifically tuned to deliver high torque from low down in the rev range all the way through the mid-range, the T120 is known its exhilarating performance. The 1200 twin engine delivers 105 Nm of peak torque at a very low 3500 rpm and its power peaks 80 PS at 6,550 rpm. With its sensitively designed liquid cooling system, the engine exceeds EURO 5 requirements, and offers excellent fuel economy.
CLASS LEADING HANDLING
Renowned for its agile, confidence-inspiring feel on the road, dedicated chassis, with relaxed riding position, the T120 has a dual seat that offers all-day comfort, with a low height of just 790mm. The latest generation ABS with twin-piston Brembo floating front calipers and 310mm discs give superb feel and power for confident braking, while Triumph’s latest generation ABS and switchable traction control maximises safety and control.
TECHNOLOGY AS STANDARD
Packed with high specification technology, the T120 features a ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control and single-button cruise control fitted as standard.
Making it even more user friendly, the rider can select between Rain and Road riding modes, which will tailor the behaviour of the bike to the riding conditions. More modern touches include LED lights, under-seat USB-A charging socket and immobiliser.
ON THE ROAD
The new T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition will be available from £14,495 OTR. Customers can reserve now, or find out more at triumphmotorcycles.co.uk. Bikes will be arriving in dealerships from August 2024.
SPECIFICATION
| ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION | |
| Type | Liquid cooled, 8 valve, SOHC, 270° crank angle parallel twin |
| Capacity | 1200 cc |
| Bore | 97.6 mm |
| Stroke | 80 mm |
| Compression | 10.0:1 |
| Maximum Power | 80 PS / 78.9 bhp (58.8 kW) @ 6,550 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 105 Nm @ 3,500 rpm |
| Fuel System | Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection |
| Exhaust | Chromed 2 into 2 exhaust system with twin chrome silencers |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate, torque assist clutch |
| Gearbox | 6 speed |
| CHASSIS | |
| Frame | Tubular steel twin cradle frame |
| Swingarm | Twin-sided fabrication |
| Front Wheel | Aluminium rimmed 32 spoke 18 x 2.75 inches |
| Rear Wheel | Aluminium rimmed 32 spoke 17 x 4.25 inches |
| Front Tyre | 100/90-18 |
| Rear Tyre | 150/70 R17 |
| Front Suspension | Ø41mm cartridge forks |
| Rear Suspension | Twin RSU’s, with pre-load adjustment |
| Front Brakes | Twin 310mm discs, Brembo 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Rear Brakes | Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2 piston floating caliper, ABS |
| Instruments | Twin dial analogue speedometer and tachometer with LCD multi-functional displays |
| DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS | |
| Width (Handlebars) | 780 mm |
| Height Without Mirrors | 1100 mm |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm |
| Rake | 25.5 ° |
| Trail | 105.2 mm |
| Wet weight | 236 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.5 litres |
| SERVICE | |
| Service Interval | 10,000 miles/16,000 Km or 12 Months, whichever comes first |
| CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS (EU) | |
| Fuel Consumption | 60.1 mpg (4.7 l/100km) |
| Emissions | 107 g/kmEURO 5 CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. |
Fuel consumption and emissions figures are measured according to the World Motorcycle Test Cycle (WMTC) under specific test conditions and provided for comparison purposes. Actual fuel economy may vary depending on factors such as riding style, accessory fitment, rider and pillion weight and tyre pressures, as well as external environmental conditions.
ATV Safety Institute Launches Free, Updated Safety Training eCourses
As riding season shifts into full gear, new online courses — free from the ATV Safety Institute — offer riders of all ages the opportunity to learn important safe-riding strategies and techniques. These courses, combined with hands-on training, offer riders the best way to get started, and for those already riding, the courses will serve as a great source of information. Both courses — Coaching Young Riders and the ATV eCourse — are available at ATVsafety.org. Spanish language versions will be available in early summer.
“Riding an ATV expands how you can enjoy the outdoors, but it takes skills and safe-riding techniques to get the most out of your ride,” said Scott Schloegel, acting President and CEO of the ATV Safety Institute. “This is why we encourage every rider to take our free online courses, and the corresponding hands-on course, before they get out on the trails. You will learn safe-riding practices and understand the importance of wearing proper safety gear. These new ATV eCourses and the hands-on training are also the best preparation for anyone needing to use ATVs for work.”
These online courses are free and available to all riders. Free hands-on training is available with every new vehicle purchased, and classes can be found at ATVsafety.org.
ATV eCourse — required before taking our hands-on course
This course is the best place for ALL riders to start on their path to understanding all-terrain vehicles and safe riding strategies. In addition, completing this ATV eCourse is required to participate in our ATV RiderCoursehands-on training session. This eCourse includes videos, pictures, and interactive activities to make it a fun and effective learning experience. During the course, users take progress quizzes and receive a certificate upon successful completion. It takes approximately two hours to complete, which is a small commitment to ensure you, your family, and fellow riders stay safe on the trails. You can stop at any point and your progress will be saved so that you can return and pick up where you left off.
Coaching Young Riders — recommended course for parents of younger ATV enthusiasts
This recommended course, which is not a pre-requisite for the ATV Safety Institute’s hands-on course, is designed for parents and caregivers supervising younger ATV riders, so they can learn the most effective ways to keep children safe. The adult and youth should take the course together for best results. The course is free and completion does NOT meet eligibility requirements to take hands-on training (all students who plan to take our hands-on course must take the ATV eCourse). This course takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
RISK Racing Introduces Adjustable Starting Blocks for Optimal Race Starts
The race start is crucial for any competitive racer. To enhance performance in this moment, RISK RACING proudly unveils the Adjustable Starting Blocks—designed to provide a consistent and powerful launch regardless of leg length, soil consistency, or the presence of ruts.
The Adjustable Starting Blocks are crafted to empower riders with a customizable setup, ensuring optimal performance. Key features include:
- 5 Height Settings: Easily adjust the height from 1.75″ to 7″ to suit any rider’s preferences and needs, or ever changing rut depth at the gate. Use the same blocks for the entire moto family.
- Portable Design: The starting blocks snap together for effortless transport and storage.
- High Traction Non-Slip Tops: Provides secure and reliable footing during every start, even in challenging conditions.
“RISK RACING is thrilled to introduce the Adjustable Starting Blocks to the racing community,” said James Burry, Owner at RISK RACING. “Our mission is to provide innovative products that enhance rider performance, and these starting blocks are designed to give each individual racer a consistent and powerful start every time.”
The Risk Racing Adjustable Starting Blocks enable the rider to perfect their body position at the gate, improve their balance, and get their feet closer to the foot pegs. All of this helps riders achieve the perfect launch out of the gate and eventually to the top of the podium.
Price: $99.99 MSRP – Explore more about our products, watch demonstration videos, and view more images at www.riskracing.com.
RISK Racing Unveils Next-Gen Holeshot Practice Starting Gate Innovations
Mastering the holeshot isn’t easy, however, it’s the pivotal moment where races are won or lost. Perfecting your start technique is crucial for MX racers aiming for the podium. Enter RISK Racing’s latest innovations, designed to elevate your starting game and drive you to victory.
The Holeshot Pro Starting Gate sets a new standard with its state-of-the-art, random-timed or instant drop, wireless electronic design. The random timed mode allows riders to hone their starts independently. With a press of the wireless remote button, the computer-controlled timing sequence is activated, dropping the gate randomly between 1-5 seconds. The glowing LED indicator on the remote mimics the anticipation of the 30-second board turning sideways. For riders who prefer to train with a coach, simply push the “Instant Drop” button on the remote giving the coach full control of the gate drop. Resetting the gate is effortless as well. Ride by and step on the foot pedal to raise the gate back up into starting position. Now line back up for more reps, no dismount needed. Finally, the gate is rechargeable via the supplied USB-C charger. Price: $329.99 MSRP
For a cost-effective training solution, the Holeshot Starting Gate manual version delivers simplicity and reliability without sacrificing performance. Its manual trigger system allows riders to practice starts with ease. A squeeze of the cable-actuated trigger operated by a trainer of choice drops the gate and sends the rider to the podium! With the same reset foot pedal as the electronic version, repetition is easy. Price: $229.99 MSRP
Both versions of the gate boast an integrated storage compartment, Velcro transport strap, and ground stakes for stability. They are meticulously crafted to help motocross athletes refine their starts and dominate the track.
Explore more about our products, watch demonstration videos, and view more images at www.riskracing.com.
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