News and stories from the world of Powersports business.
Polaris to Separate Indian Motorcycle into a Standalone Company, Will Sell Majority Stake to Carolwood LP
Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) (“Polaris” or “the Company”) today announced its decision to separate Indian Motorcycle (“the Business”) from its portfolio and into a standalone business. The Company has entered into a definitive agreement to sell a majority stake in Indian Motorcycle to Carolwood LP, an independent private equity firm founded in 2014 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Indian Motorcycle contributed approximately $478 million, or 7.0%, of Polaris’ revenues for the trailing twelve-month period ended June 30, 2025.
Upon close, the transaction is expected to be accretive to Polaris’ annualized adjusted EBITDA by approximately $50 million and to adjusted earnings per share (“EPS”) by approximately $1.00. The close of the transaction is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions. Polaris is confident in Indian Motorcycle’s future success under Carolwood ownership and will maintain a small equity position in the Business after the transaction closes. Additional terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Polaris and Indian Motorcycle both stand to benefit from this deal, which will enable each business to move faster, deliver industry-leading innovation, and lean further into our respective market strengths,” said Polaris Chief Executive Officer Mike Speetzen. “For Polaris, the sale will further strengthen our focus on the areas of our portfolio that offer the strongest growth potential and allow us to accelerate investments in key initiatives and create wins with customers and dealers. It also will unlock greater long-term value for Polaris and our shareholders, with immediate value creation that we expect will become increasingly meaningful over time.”
Speetzen continued, “Under Polaris’ ownership and investment, Indian Motorcycle has been re-established as a celebrated brand and major player in the global motorcycle market. With its current product portfolio, global dealer network, category expertise and manufacturing resources, the Business is well positioned to succeed as a standalone company with a dedicated focus on its industry. We were highly intentional and selective in our search and planning efforts for Indian Motorcycle’s next chapter of growth. In Carolwood, Indian Motorcycle has a partner that believes in building on the Business’ current momentum and supporting its next stage of success. We are confident and committed to making this a seamless transition for Indian Motorcycle dealers, customers and employees.”
“Indian Motorcycle is an iconic brand built on American heritage, craftsmanship, and most importantly, a community of riders,” said Andrew Shanfeld, Principal at Carolwood. “We’re honored to help usher in its next chapter as an independent company and to support its continued growth as a symbol of performance and pride. At Carolwood, we target iconic brands that we can passionately impact. Indian Motorcycle allows us to do just that.”
Future Indian Motorcycle Leadership
Carolwood has selected Mike Kennedy to serve as CEO of the new independent Indian Motorcycle organization once the deal closes. A more than 30-year motorcycle industry veteran, Kennedy has a proven track record as a leader in and around the motorcycle industry. He previously served as CEO of RumbleOn, the nation’s largest powersports dealership group; CEO and President of Vance & Hines, a leading manufacturer of high-performance aftermarket motorcycle exhaust systems and accessories; and spent 26 years at Harley-Davidson in various leadership roles.
Adam Rubin, Principal at Carolwood, said, “Indian Motorcycle has defined American motorcycling for over a century, and Carolwood’s role is to ensure that legacy thrives for the next hundred years. Mike Kennedy brings over 30 years of experience leading iconic motorcycle and performance brands and will play a critical role in stewarding Indian Motorcycle’s growth. At Carolwood, we’re deeply committed to preserving what makes Indian Motorcycle special, supporting its growth, and empowering the team to write its next great chapter.”
Continuity for Indian Motorcycle
As a part of the deal, approximately 900 employees will transition as a part of the new Indian Motorcycle Company. Indian Motorcycle will retain the majority of its team, including engineers, designers and staff, along with manufacturing resources. Manufacturing facilities in Spirit Lake, Iowa, and Monticello, Minn., as well as the industrial design and technology center in Burgdorf, Switzerland, will transition to the new standalone motorcycle company as a part of the deal.
Indian Motorcycle will continue to provide sales, service, and support for dealers and customers throughout this transition. After the sale is finalized, Indian Motorcycle will operate independently of Polaris and continue selling motorcycles and parts, garments and accessories (PG&A) and providing service through its global Indian Motorcycle dealer network.
Polaris Leadership Update
Until the transaction closes, Polaris President of On Road and International Mike Dougherty will continue to lead the On Road and International businesses, including Indian Motorcycle, at Polaris. Over the next several months, he will help shepherd Indian Motorcycle in its transition to becoming a standalone company. Dougherty, with a distinguished nearly 28-year career with Polaris, has announced his intent to retire upon the closing of the transaction.
“During his tenure with Polaris, Mike’s passionate leadership is responsible for countless contributions. As a result of his tenacity and guidance, Mike shaped our international business into what it is today, scaling it over the last 25 years and establishing a direct presence in more than fifteen countries. He has expanded our business outside of North America, growing revenue from under $100 million in 2000 to more than $1 billion today, as well as strengthened our On Road businesses within their respective markets, including Indian Motorcycle achieving the No. 1 market share position in the United States for mid-size cruisers last year,” said Speetzen. “More than that, Mike is known for the teams he builds, the talent he cultivates and the culture he fosters, and I want to thank Mike for his dedication to Polaris all these years. We wish him the very best in his future retirement.”
Preliminary View of Polaris Third Quarter Earnings Results
The Company is scheduled to publish its third quarter 2025 results on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. At that time, management will provide additional details regarding today’s announced transaction and quarterly performance.
Commenting on preliminary Third Quarter results, Speetzen said: “As we prepare to report our third quarter results, we’re encouraged by improving retail trends with ORV ex-Youth up low double digits and continued strong share gains in ORV. Based on preliminary data, we expect third quarter sales to be at the high end of our previously issued guidance range of $1.6 billion to $1.8 billion. We anticipate third quarter adjusted EPS to be in the range of $0.31 to $0.41, which is meaningfully higher than our original expectations, driven by higher-than-expected shipments, strong cost management and ongoing progress within our operational efficiency initiatives.”
Polaris’ estimates for the three months ended September 30, 2025 are preliminary and represent the most current information available to its management. Polaris’ actual results may differ from the preliminary estimates due to the completion of its financial closing procedures, final adjustments and other developments that may arise between the date of this press release and the time that financial results for the three months ended September 30, 2025 are finalized.
Advisors
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is serving as financial advisor, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is serving as legal advisor to Polaris.
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is serving as legal advisor to Carolwood LP. Carolwood is also being advised by RSM, Alliant, and Finnea Group.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This press release contains adjusted earnings per share (“Adjusted EPS”), which is a non-GAAP measure, as a measure of our operating performance. Management believes this measure may be useful in performing meaningful comparisons of past and present operating results, and to understand the performance of its ongoing operations and how management views the business.
The Company has not provided a reconciliation of preliminary results for adjusted earnings per share, in reliance on the unreasonable efforts exception provided under Item 10(e)(1)(i)(B) of Regulation S-K. The Company is unable, without unreasonable efforts, to finalize certain items required to develop meaningful comparable GAAP financial measures.
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains not only historical information, but also “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These “forward-looking statements” can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as we or our management “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate” or words of similar import. Our statements relating to our preliminary Third Quarter results and other statements that describe our future plans, objectives or goals, such as the benefits of the potential separation of Indian Motorcycle from our portfolio (including the expected impact on margins and adjusted EPS), the expected timing for the completion of the separation, future cash flows and capital requirements, operational initiatives are forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may also be made from time to time in oral presentations, including telephone conferences and/or webcasts open to the public.
Potential risks and uncertainties include such factors as the Company’s ability to complete the proposed separation of Indian Motorcycle in a successful and timely basis or at all; the Company’s ability to derive the expected benefits from the separation including the separation being accretive, within the expected timeline or at all; the Company’s ability to successfully implement its manufacturing operations strategy and supply chain initiatives; the Company’s ability to successfully source necessary parts and materials on a timely basis; the ability of the Company to manufacture and deliver products to dealers to meet demand, including as a result of supply chain disruptions; the Company’s ability to identify and meet optimal dealer inventory levels; the Company’s ability to accurately forecast and sustain consumer demand; the Company’s ability to mitigate increasing input costs through pricing or other measures; product offerings, promotional activities and pricing strategies by competitors that may make our products less attractive to consumers; the Company’s ability to strategically invest in innovation and new products, including as compared to our competitors; economic conditions that impact consumer spending or consumer credit, including recessionary conditions and changes in interest rates; disruptions in manufacturing facilities; product recalls and/or warranty expenses; product rework costs; impact of changes in Polaris stock price on incentive compensation plan costs; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; environmental and product safety regulatory activity; effects of weather on the Company’s supply chain, manufacturing operations and consumer demand; commodity costs; freight and tariff costs (tariff relief or ability to mitigate tariffs, particularly in light of policies of the current presidential administration and retaliatory actions in response thereto); changes to international trade policies and agreements; uninsured product liability and class action claims (including claims seeking punitive damages) and other litigation expenses incurred due to the nature of our business; uncertainty in the consumer retail and wholesale credit markets; performance of affiliate partners; changes in tax policy; relationships with dealers and suppliers; and the general global economic, social and political environment. The risks and uncertainties discussed in this press release are not exclusive and other factors that we may consider immaterial or do not anticipate may emerge as significant risks and uncertainties. Any forward-looking statements made in this press release or otherwise speak only as of the date of such statement, and we undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect actual results or changes in factors or assumptions affecting such forward-looking statements. We advise you, however, to consult any further disclosures made on related subjects in future Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K that are filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Automatic Distributors to Feature New Products and Solutions at AIMExpo 2026!
Automatic Distributors, a premier distributor of parts and accessories for powersports dealers nationwide, will return to AIMExpo 2026, joining industry leaders on the show floor in Anaheim, California, January 7-9.
Distributors are a vital link in the powersports ecosystem, connecting brands big and small with the dealerships and customers who keep the industry moving. Automatic Distributors returns to the show floor as a trusted partner to dealers nationwide, ready to share new products, fresh ideas, and hands-on support.
“AIMExpo is where the powersports community comes together,” said James Priestnal, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Automatic Distributors. “Being at the show keeps us connected to the dealers, manufacturers, and riders shaping the future of the industry. For us, it’s not just about selling – it’s about listening, learning, and building the partnerships that keep powersports growing.”
Stop by the Automatic Distributors booth to see and handle new product lines; get inside info on pricing, availability, and upcoming releases; meet the people behind the orders and support lines; and access show-only offers and incentives.
Automatic Distributors will also be rolling out new lines across tires, batteries, lubricants, and accessories and introducing updated dealer tools and shipping programs, designed to make business faster and easier. The team will be on hand to answer questions, share best practices, and take feedback directly from the floor to help improve their programs.
“Distributors are the engine behind so much of what happens in powersports,” said Cinnamon Kernes, MIC Vice President of Market Expansion. “When Automatic Distributors joins us on the show floor, it’s not just about showcasing products – it’s about giving dealers real access to the people and solutions that drive their day-to-day business forward.”
Triumph Confirms Plans to Unveil 29 Bikes in Unprecedented Season Launch
Triumph Motorcycles has announced a record schedule of 29 new and updated model launches over the next six months.
This ambitious rollout follows years of sustained investment in product development and is underpinned by Triumph’s five consecutive years of record-breaking global sales and confidence in the opportunities that exist within the volatile global motorcycle market.
In its latest landmark financial year, from July 2024 to June 2025, Triumph delivered more than 141,683 motorcycles worldwide, cementing its position as the UK’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. This represents a remarkable 136% growth in sales since 2019, delivered through a network of 950 dealers across 68 countries.
The upcoming models will be unveiled at a series of global reveal events starting on 21 October, when the first campaign, ‘True Originals Never Settle’, will launch. The next announcement on 28 October will be to launch a new model ‘Made to Upstage’.
Of the 29 models due to launch, seven have already been announced, with the new TXP electric motorcycle range, the new TF 450-X and two cross-country models, landing in dealerships before Christmas. The remaining 22 bike reveals will include both new variants of existing lines and all-new models.
Customers in the UK will be able to configure and reserve their new motorcycle online as soon as they are revealed, through Triumph’s new Reserve My Triumph technology. Securing their preferred model and choice of colour with a deposit, customers can ensure they are one of the first to collect their new bike. Each order will be fulfilled by their preferred dealer, ensuring easy servicing and support. The new bike reservation service will be progressively introduced across Europe and other major markets from Spring 2026.
With new motorcycles arriving in Triumph’s global dealer network over the next six months, dealers across the world will be hosting a series of preview events from now until Spring 2026, inviting customers to be amongst the first to see the complete range.
While the wider industry faces significant challenges, Triumph’s commitment to innovation and quality remains steadfast. The brand’s record investment in new product development is a testament to its belief in the enduring appeal of motorcycling and its responsibility to deliver the very best to customers worldwide.
Recent launches such as the Tiger Sport 800 have exceeded expectations, while the Speed Triple RS and RX have contributed to a strong uplift in sales. Triumph’s dealer networks in China, Brazil and India have performed very strongly in their markets over the year. This momentum is further strengthened by Triumph’s expansion into new market segments, including sub-500cc motorcycles, competitive off-road, and most recently, electric models designed for younger riders.
Triumph has just revealed its first electric youth motorcycles; the new Triumph TXP range, powered by OSET; four new models with scalable electric performance, premium design, and built-in safety features. Building upon the proven foundation of OSET’s pioneering technology and enhanced by Triumph’s design and engineering expertise, the new TXP models feature a lightweight chassis, advanced rider ergonomics, a unique 2in1 modular set-up, and Triumph’s striking Performance Yellow and Graphite Black livery.
The recent launch of the TF 450-X follows a successful debut year of off-road racing for Triumph, with both motocross and enduro motorcycles delivering standout results. With race wins and podium finishes in international series including FIM MXGP, EnduroGP, SuperEnduro, and the AMA SuperMotocross Championship, the TF 250-X, TF 450-RC, TF 250-E, and TF 450-E have all delivered at the highest level on some of the off-road world’s most competitive stages.
Across Europe, North America, and Australia, Triumph has secured multiple national championship titles and podium finishes, including the ACU British MX2 Motocross Championship, where Tommy Searle rode the TF 250-X to the title, and the hotly contested Assoluti d’Italia di Enduro Italian National Championship earlier in the season, where Italian rider Morgan Lesiardo took the 250 4T title aboard the TF 250-E.
Meanwhile, the sub-500cc range, which includes the Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X, and Scrambler 400 XC, has been instrumental in accelerating Triumph’s growth across Asia.
Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer at Triumph Motorcycles, commented: “The momentum we’ve achieved over recent years is extraordinary. Our record sales, expansion into new segments, and the number of upcoming product launches all reflect the quiet optimism we feel about the future. While the market remains challenging for many, Triumph’s focus is clear. We are committed to delivering a range of motorcycles that are exciting, innovative, and built to the highest quality standards, for our customers around the world.”
To be the first to hear about Triumph’s new models, customers are invited to sign up for updates at triumphmotorcycles.co.uk
NEVER STOP: The 2026 KTM 990 RC R Races onto The Street
Throttle hands have been itching for it, and now the production 2026 KTM 990 RC R is on the horizon. And, for riders, this highly-anticipated new Supersport entry from KTM is ready to widen the thrills of the street and narrow the margins for lap-times on track.
The KTM 990 RC R arrives with elevated specifications and serves as a refined ‘R’platform that will have you READY TO RACE, but is also engineered with the ergonomics for day-to-day use and offers the best of both arenas. This up-specced model will reset the perception of performance, enjoyment, and style in the next generation Supersport segment.
A natural extension of the KTM RC line-up, the KTM 990 RC R has been years in the making with a wealth of data garnered by KTM’s Research and Development, as well as aerodynamic data from its Motorsport program. Fabricated and assembled in Austria, the bike has a purpose-built steel chassis (and diecast aluminum subframe) with exceptional front-end feel, in addition to a firm, agile character that still offers immense stability. The powerful LC8c engine cranks out class-leading horsepower and torque, launching the machine away from any traffic light as though it was the front row of the grid.
Sporting DNA is immediately transparent through the aesthetic of the KTM 990 RC R with the wind tunnel-developed aerodynamics, 320 mm Brembo 4-piston caliper HyPure brakes, attuned bodywork, WP APEX suspension and 8.8” TFT dash that reveals the Ride Modes: RAIN, STREET, SPORT, and CUSTOM. Optional Ride Modes include TRACK and two more CUSTOM Modes with telemetry such as lean angle and throttle opening rates for acceleration, as well as four, advanced standard ABS Modes: STREET, SPORT, SUPERMOTO+ and SUPERMOTO ABS.
The specifications of the KTM 990 RC R are a clear indication of the racing genesis of the project, but KTM’s goal is to offer an effective and appealing motorcycle for riders who also want to turn heads on the street. This is evident through its READY TO RACE riding position that is sharp in its stance, while having riders dialed for those longer journeys at speed.
A six-point ergonomics contact patch gives comfy support for knees, arms and hands, and adjustable footrests will accommodate tall or shorter riders, or allow for steeper lean angles at the apex. Weight has been trimmed where possible and remains complemented by attention to detail – inclusive of the 4.2-gallon (16-liter) fuel tank that enables riders to go the distance.
The 2026 KTM 990 RC R will be coming off production lines in November 2025 and will arrive in authorized KTM dealers soon afterward.
Riaan Neveling, Global KTM Brand Manager: “At KTM we like the fast-paced life and the KTM 990 RC R is a bike that we’ve been impatient to show for some time now. Why? Through all our model segments and strong technology, we know we’ve been missing that motorcycle that gets a certain type of rider excited. We kick ass when it comes to Naked bikes, Adventure bikes and, of course, Offroad, among others, but this is the expression we’ve wanted to deliver for some time. It’s our link to all the efforts to the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing MotoGP project and our outlet for the sea of information and data that has come the way of our Mattighofen R&D experts.”
The KTM 990 RC R’s journey to realization has been charted from discussions to design to delivery in a special video series that can be seen HERE.
Riders, racers and authentic performance-seekers can choose between orange and black versions of the 2026 KTM 990 RC R.
Plus, KTM has always stayed true to its READY TO RACE core, and the dedicated track rider is no exception. Arriving early 2026, the KTM 990 RC R TRACK is set to make its debut as a pure, track-only machine engineered to deliver performance straight from the Mattighofen production line. Available to order through KTM Authorized Dealers, the KTM 990 RC R TRACK is far more than a street bike conversion. Stripped of unnecessary components and fitted with essentials for serious track use – including a reduced dashboard, dedicated electronics, removed ABS modulator, direct brake lines, a track-optimized gearbox, and more – it’s built to bring riders closer to the apex from day one. Full technical details of this new model will be revealed early next year.
In addition, KTM is set to launch the KTM 990 RC R CUP in Europe during spring 2026. Designed for riders looking to progress beyond standard track days, the KTM 990 RC R CUP offers an accessible entry point into racing without the pressure of competing against seasoned professionals. To further elevate the experience, professional KTM riders will be present at each round, sharing insights and mentoring participants to sharpen their skills on track. The KTM 990 RC R CUP will be open to both the street-homologated version and the dedicated KTM 990 RC R TRACK model. For more info about the CUP go to KTM.com.
Massimo Group Expands UTV Lineup with New Buck 450 and T-Boss 900L Crew Models
Massimo Group (NASDAQ: MAMO), a manufacturer and distributor of powersports vehicles and products, today announced an expansion of its UTV lineup with the addition of the Buck 450 4WD UTV and the T-Boss 900L Crew UTV, further strengthening relationships with key retail partners nationwide.
This expansion underscores Massimo’s commitment to innovation, value, and continuous investment in its product offerings, giving customers more choices across both entry-level and premium categories.
In partnership with one of the nation’s largest farm and ranch stores, the first shipment of these new models will begin arriving in stores across the country in November, with additional deliveries continuing through the holiday season. The timing aligns perfectly with the peak sales period for outdoor and recreational vehicles.
This initial rollout—comprising multiple units across our model portfolio—will help establish a strong foundation for next year’s expanded sales and product placement strategy, reinforcing Massimo’s continued focus on growth, quality and nationwide reach.
Model Highlights
Buck 450 4WD UTV
- 352 cc liquid-cooled EFI engine (25 HP)
- Automatic CVT with on-demand 4WD
- Independent suspension, 11-inch ground clearance
T-Boss 900L Crew UTV
- 812 cc 3-cylinder EFI engine (~52 HP)
- Crew seating for up to six passengers
- 10-inch touchscreen display with GPS
- Hydraulic-assist dump bed and full LED lighting
- Premium comfort and all-terrain capability
David Shen, CEO of Massimo Group, said: “We continue to invest in expanding our product lineup and deepening our partnerships with our retail partners. The Buck 450 and T-Boss 900L represent our ongoing commitment to deliver high-quality vehicles that provide exceptional value for our customers.”
Krämer Motorcycles Celebrates 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup Success and Opens Preorders for 2026 APX-350 MA
Krämer Motorcycles USA is proud to reflect on the inaugural year of the 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup, marked by outstanding performances from each of the riders who raced the Krämer APX-350 MA. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the riders and teams on their achievements this season, and we look ahead with enthusiasm toward the 2026 MotoAmerica Talent Cup with returning talent and new entrants. Krämer Motorcycles USA is excited to announce the launch of preorders for the APX-350 MA for the 2026 season.
The MotoAmerica Talent Cup has quickly become a proving ground for the next generation of American motorcycle road racers. The 2025 season was a testament to the program’s success. As the spec-racing class powered by Krämer Motorcycles APX-350 MA machines, the Talent Cup provides high performance, a level playing field for young riders and offers a proven “Road to MotoGPTM” development path. This season showcased both the competitive strength of the new platform and the rising stars who piloted bikes. MotoAmerica Talent Cup racers demonstrated remarkable consistency, speed, and sportsmanship throughout the year, reinforcing the APX-350 MA’s growing reputation as a lightweight race platform for developing talent.
As Krämer looks ahead to 2026, preorders for the APX-350 MA are now open. To ensure guaranteed Spring 2026 delivery, all orders must be placed by November 15, 2025. The limited-production APX-350 MA is purpose-built for the MotoAmerica Talent Cup, delivering race-ready performance, spec chassis, and a components package engineered for consistency, performance, and rider development. Every machine is tuned to the same benchmark, allowing talent to shine. Prospective teams and riders are encouraged to place their orders early. Please note that orders received after the preorder deadline may be subject to additional costs.
“We’re really proud of what all the teams have accomplished this year,” said Joe Karvonen, owner of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “The Talent Cup has proven to be a great program for developing young riders as they improve their skills and move up in the ranks. We’re excited to welcome back some familiar faces and also bring in some new riders next season.”
Krämer Motorcycles USA and MotoAmerica remain committed to promoting growth of new and young riders in American road racing. We look forward to the 2026 MotoAmerica Talent Cup season, starting with the Circuit of The Americas in Texas during the MotoGP weekend, March 27-29.
For more information on the Krämer APX-350 MA or to place a preorder, visit www.kramermotorcyclesusa.com or contact purchase@kramermotorcyclesusa.com
Rebel 300 E-Clutch Headlines 2026 Honda Cruiser New-Model Announcement
American Honda today announced its 2026 Rebel lineup, reinforcing the model family’s position as one of the most popular and versatile names in the cruiser category. Long recognized for combining timeless styling with rider-friendly performance, the Rebel models continue to attract new motorcyclists while also appealing to seasoned riders.
For the new model year, the spotlight is on the Rebel 300, which becomes the third powersports model to feature Honda’s innovative E-Clutch technology, further lowering the barrier to entry for new riders, while enhancing convenience for all. Rounding out the lineup, the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100 return for 2026, delivering the performance, reliability and character that have made the Rebel nameplate a mainstay of Honda’s on-road lineup.
“The Rebel brand has been a cornerstone of Honda’s on-road lineup throughout its long history, and it continues to resonate with riders of varying ages and backgrounds,” said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. “The 2026 Rebel 300—now with E-Clutch technology—builds on that legacy by combining timeless design with cutting-edge innovation, while the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100 platforms carry forward the same trusted qualities that have made Honda’s cruisers so popular.”
2026 Rebel 300 E-Clutch
When it comes to introducing new riders to on-road motorcycling, few models can compete with Honda’s Rebel 300. Thanks to its unintimidating nature, low seat height, feathery overall weight, controllable power, fun style and affordable MSRP, this little cruiser has long served as an entry point for folks looking to dip a toe into the excitement of riding. Consequently, it makes sense that the Rebel 300 is a common choice for riding schools like the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourse. For the 2026 model year, the popular model is even more approachable, as it comes with Honda E-Clutch technology, which is designed to make motorcycling even more enjoyable and exciting.
- Colors: Matte Black Metallic; Pearl Smoky Gray
- MSRP: $5,349
- Available: December
- Info
2026 Rebel 500
As the industry’s best-selling cruiser, the Rebel 500 has a proven record as a fun, approachable machine that offers comfort, performance and style. Nimble and light, it’s a great option for those getting started in motorcycling, those stepping up from a smaller bike or even for experienced riders seeking an affordable machine for getting around town in style. Available in a standard version and an SE trim level with select factory-installed accessories, the Rebel 500 promises to retain its popularity for years to come.
- Colors
- Rebel 500: Pearl Black; Pearl Smoky Gray
- Rebel 500 SE: Pearl Blue
- MSRP
- Rebel 500: $6,799
- Rebel 500 SE: $6,999
- Available: January
- Info
2026 Rebel 1100
Blending classic lines with advanced technology and Honda’s renowned engineering, the Rebel 1100 platform continues to redefine what a modern cruiser can be. In a category often driven by tradition, Honda’s largest Rebel pushes boundaries by offering riders not only timeless styling and strong performance, but also the kind of innovation and versatility that resonate with today’s motorcyclists. The model boasts a long list of features focused on comfort and convenience, including rider-friendly tech like Honda RoadSync for seamless connectivity. With five distinct trim levels—ranging from the stripped-back standard to the touring-ready T—there’s a Rebel 1100 version to suit every style of rider. Each iteration delivers the same foundation of reliability, performance and character that has made the Rebel nameplate a favorite since its introduction.
- Colors
- Rebel 1100: Matte Black Metallic; Matte Silver
- Rebel 1100 DCT: Matte Black Metallic; Matte Silver
- Rebel 1100 DCT SE: Deep Pearl Gray
- Rebel 1100T: Gray Metallic
- Rebel 1100T DCT: Gray Metallic
- MSRP
- Rebel 1100: $9,699
- Rebel 1100 DCT: $10,399
- Rebel 1100 DCT SE: $11,199
- Rebel 1100T: $10,899
- Rebel 1100T DCT: $11,599
- Available: December
- Info
MIC’s Christy LaCurelle Elected Board Vice Chair of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable has elected Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council, as Vice Chair of its Board of Directors, reinforcing the powersports industry’s role in shaping the future of outdoor recreation. ORR is a coalition representing the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy, uniting dozens of national associations working to expand access to public lands and waters and to grow outdoor participation.
LaCurelle joins newly elected Chair Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association, and new Board Member Fred Ferguson, President and CEO of the American Bus Association.
“It’s a privilege to serve as Vice Chair of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable Board of Directors, and I am grateful to be elected to the role,” LaCurelle said. “The outdoor recreation industry has shown that it can achieve great things when we work together, and I’m excited to work with Glenn, the board, ORR President Jessica Turner, and the ORR staff to strengthen our coalition, help grow the outdoor recreation industry, and make public lands and waters more accessible and more enjoyable for all Americans.”
“Christy’s expertise will strengthen our impact in advancing outdoor access and growing the outdoor recreation economy for the benefit of all Americans – especially in rural communities,” Turner said.
LaCurelle also leads the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, and Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. The associations represent the $51 billion powersports industry and its enthusiasts through advocacy work, research, education and safety programs, and public outreach
