News and stories from the world of Powersports business.
Yamaha Motor Corp, USA, Promotes Dean Burnett to Senior Vice President and President of Motorsports Division
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA (YMUS), is promoting Dean Burnett to Senior Vice President and President of Motorsports. Burnett brings more than three decades of Yamaha experience to his new position, most recently as Vice President of Yamaha’s Marine Innovation Center, and President of Siren Marine and Skeeter and G3 Boat companies.
Mike Martinez, the current SVP and President of Motorsports since 2022, announced his retirement after 32 years at YMUS. Martinez will stay on for the first quarter of 2026 to work closely with Burnett and ensure a smooth transition of the Motorsports business and operations. He will officially retire on April 3, 2026.
“Yamaha owes Mike Martinez a huge debt of gratitude for his decades of service, spearheading groundbreaking products, dealer programs, and initiatives that directly led to Yamaha’s success in the U.S. powersports industry. I’m confident that Mike’s legacy is in great hands with Dean Burnett, who’s intimate knowledge of Yamaha, from sales and marketing to operations and finance, combined with his extensive leadership experience, makes him the perfect person to lead Motorsports into the future,” said Michael Chrzanowski, President and CEO of Yamaha Motor Corp., USA. “Over the next few months, Dean and Mike will work closely together to align strategy and operations for the future success of Yamaha Motorsports and our dealer partners.”
Burnett was born into his family’s marine dealership in Louisville, Kentucky, and worked his way through various Yamaha business groups dating back to 1987, including sales, marketing, service, operations, manufacturing, and finance. He brings vast leadership experience in addition to his roles in Yamaha’s Marine business, having served as President and Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Canada, Ltd. (YMCA), and President and Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Finance Canada, Ltd. (YMFCA). Prior to his time in Canada, Burnett was President of the Yamaha WaterCraft Business Group.
“I enjoy being part of the Yamaha family, and I’ve seen firsthand how Martinez worked tirelessly to build a culture based on community, innovation, and real-world experiences. Importantly, the Yamaha Motorsports team values, supports, and celebrates our dealer partners and business relationships. I’m proud and excited to accept this new opportunity,” Burnett said. “At its core, Yamaha creates lifelong memories, and we’ll continue to deliver on that promise to our dealer partners and customers over the decades to come.”
Martinez joined Yamaha in 1994 as a motorcycle and ATV product planner. He went on to lead the YMUS RV group, launching breakthrough models like Yamaha’s first automatic 4×4, the Kodiak 450, the legendary Raptor and Grizzly ATVs, and the Rhino Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicle, which created today’s popular SxS recreation segment. Martinez also led Yamaha’s organizational alignment of Motorcycle, RV and Parts & Accessory operations, as well as its corporate relocation to Georgia in 2018.
Throughout his career, Martinez championed Yamaha’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing, and inspired the development of the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, the powersports industry’s leader in supporting access to public land for motorized recreation which has contributed more than $8 million in grants over the past 18 years. Under his leadership, Yamaha reignited its racing dominance in the U.S., partnering with Star Racing to manage the 450 Supercross (SX) and Motocross (MX) teams, as well as combining the Racing and Marketing divisions during the Motorsports organization alignment in 2018. On-track results speak for themselves, with 26 premier class championships in SX, MX, SuperMotocross and Road Race competition, as well as 34 national ATV and SxS racing titles over the past seven years.
“I’ve known Dean for a long time, we’ve had a great working relationship, and I have full confidence that he will be a strong leader and advocate for Yamaha and a great partner to Yamaha dealers. He brings the experience and talent to lead Yamaha to new and exciting growth into the future,” Martinez said. “Thanks to everyone at Yamaha over the years for making this a great ride. Personally, I’m looking forward to many more of my own adventures and to watching Yamaha’s continued success for years to come.”
Chase Down New Uncharted Territories with the 2026 KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R
Be it isolated ice-clad tundras, heavily wooded forests, or dried-up riverbeds, the 2026 KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R is ready to cross borders in search of new, uncharted ground.
The KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R sits at the top of the offroad Adventure food chain and obliterates all challengers. The KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R provides off-grid Adventure motorcyclists with the ideal platform to travel beyond the beaten track.
For 2026, the KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R features an all-new bodywork design, LED lighting, a shorter, more offroad-focused windshield, and more storage options. The 2026 KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R sees an increase in frame stiffness, improving handling and track stability. A reworked engine guard – fitted as standard on the SUPER ADVENTURE R – has also been stiffened up to provide better protection thanks to an additional arm toward the engine bracket.
Unlike the KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE S EVO, the KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R is fitted with a more traditional suspension setup better suited to harder offroad use, with a 48 mm WP XPLOR split cartridge fork at the front and WP XPLOR Progressive Damping System (PDS) shock taking care of duties at the rear end. This system is the absolute leader for serious offroad-focused suspension performance.
Engine displacement is increased from 1,300 to 1,350 cc, producing increased horsepower and torque figures, with all-new CAMSHIFT technology providing improved rideability in the low rpm range. This makes for a smoother response when negotiating tight trails.
The innovative CAMSHIFT technology provides variable-valve timing with two individual cam profiles. At higher revs, the inlet cams shift sideways, opening the valves longer and higher for more gas flow into the cylinder head, which drastically increases performance, while in the lower rev range, the inlet cams have a reduced valve timing and lift. This results in a noticeable increase in rideability in both normal road conditions around town and high-performance use on faster, open roads.
The KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R also receives KTM’s new premium electronics package, with an all-new vertical-mounted dashboard. The 8” touchscreen features inductive technology, allowing easy operation, even when wearing thick winter or offroad gloves. The screen also features innovative Anti-reflex, anti-fingerprint, and anti-glare coating which improves overall readability, as well giving riders access to new RIDE MODES, built-in Navigation, and Connectivity features.
The new Navigation feature provides route planning, including Waypoints, A-to-B planning, offline routing, and preset POIs (home and work). The map navigation system is integrated in the motorcycle connectivity unit, which allows for map navigation to be used without the need for a cell phone. Connecting to your phone via Wi-Fi enables specific features, including online search, routing, live traffic, and more.
The new 2026 KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R will be rolling off the Austrian production line in January 2026 and onto dealer floors in February. For more information, visit KTM.com.
Honda Expands E-Clutch Lineup With New CB750 Hornet, Announces 15 Total On-Road Models
Honda today announced 15 on-road motorcycle models for 2026, highlighted by the expansion of the company’s groundbreaking E-Clutch technology to the popular CB750 Hornet naked bike. With this move, Honda now offers a total of four E-Clutch-equipped motorcycles—including the CB650R, CBR650R and the recently announced Rebel 300 E-Clutch cruiser—underscoring the brand’s commitment to combining innovation with rider accessibility and control.
This latest new-model announcement encompasses a full range of categories—from adventure and sport to touring and standard—demonstrating the company’s continued leadership and breadth in the motorcycle market. Also of note is a renewed focus on the sport bike segment, with MSRP reductions introduced to improve value and competitiveness while maintaining the same Honda quality and performance. MSRP reductions include $1,000 on the CB500 Hornet and CBR500R, $700 on the CB650R E-Clutch and CBR650R E-Clutch and $650 on the CB300R. In addition, the NX500 gets a $500 price reduction.
“Honda’s E-Clutch system represents a major step forward in motorcycle technology, offering riders the freedom to enjoy seamless shifting without sacrificing engagement or performance,” said Colin Miller, Manager of Public Relations at American Honda. “Expanding this technology to the CB750 Hornet for 2026—and offering an extensive lineup of fun, practical, value-conscious on-road models—reflects our ongoing goal of making the joy of motorcycling more approachable, intuitive and enjoyable for riders of all experience levels. On a related note, we’re pleased to confirm our commitment to sport bike customers, with new lower pricing for multiple CB and CBR models that makes them more accessible and creates a natural path for current Honda riders—like miniMOTO owners—to step up to a sport bike. Importantly, these changes come without sacrificing technology, style or performance.”
CB750 Hornet E-Clutch
Honda’s CB750 Hornet has quickly earned a reputation for delivering an ideal balance of performance, agility and everyday usability. For 2026, that formula evolves with the addition of Honda’s innovative E-Clutch system—an industry-first technology that brings a new level of convenience and control to the middleweight naked segment. The CB750 Hornet is also the first Honda E-Clutch model with throttle-by-wire, which offers enhanced electronic control. The result is a machine that retains the CB750 Hornet’s thrilling character and sharp handling, but with a new level of versatility that benefits riders across a wide range of situations.
- Colors: Matte Nightshade Blue; Black
- MSRP: $7,999
- Available: February
- Info
CB1000 Hornet SP
Honda’s CB1000 Hornet SP channels decades of naked-bike heritage into a bold, modern performance statement. Delivering liter-class power in a streetfighter package, this premium Hornet model combines precision engineering and a raw street presence. The CBR1000RR-derived engine, premium components and aggressive stance make it equally at home slicing through canyon roads and ruling city streets. True to the Hornet name, the model is a perfect mix of refinement and rebellion—Honda’s vision of performance stripped to a pure form.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $10,999
- Available: January
- Info
CB650R E-Clutch
Honda’s CB650R brings modern performance and timeless style together in one accessible, enjoyable package. Offering the thrill of a sport bike without sacrificing everyday comfort, it blends the precision of a naked machine with Honda’s signature refinement. The inline-four powerplant and advanced chassis deliver a uniquely balanced riding experience—spirited on winding roads yet composed in city traffic. With its minimalist design and innovative Honda E-Clutch technology, the CB650R proves that performance can be both practical and emotional.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $8,699
- Available: January
- Info
CBR650R E-Clutch
Few motorcycles capture the thrill of sport riding while remaining practical for everyday use like Honda’s CBR650R E-Clutch. Developed to deliver performance without sacrificing day-to-day usability, this mid-displacement sportbike strikes an ideal balance between track-inspired excitement and real-world versatility. With its inline-four engine, refined handling and innovative Honda E-Clutch technology, the CBR650R combines passion and engineering in a way that makes every ride as effortless as it is exhilarating.
- Colors: Matte Black Metallic; Grand Prix Red
- MSRP: $9,199
- Available: January
- Info
CB500 Hornet
For 2026, Honda’s middleweight naked offering proudly joins the brand’s iconic Hornet family. The newly named CB500 Hornet combines the proven performance and versatility of its parallel-twin platform with a streetfighter aesthetic, resulting in a motorcycle that blends precision engineering, everyday usability and pure riding enjoyment.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $5,899
- Available: February
- Info
CBR500R
With its blend of sharp styling, real-world performance and rider-friendly versatility, Honda’s CBR500R brings supersport attitude to an approachable middleweight platform. Whether carving through twisty backroads or navigating city traffic, the model enhances the riding experience with smooth, responsive performance and the thrilling character that has long defined the CBR lineup.
- Colors: Grand Prix Red
- MSRP: $6,399
- Available: February
- Info
NX500
Honda’s adventure-ready NX500 boasts a proven combination of a responsive twin-cylinder engine, agile handling and adventure-touring versatility. The result is a motorcycle that blends rugged capability with effortless operation, ensuring that every ride is a memorable journey—from the daily commute to weekend exploration.
- Color: Pearl White
- MSRP: $6,899
- Available: February
- Info
CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP
For riders who see every corner, straightaway and braking zone as an opportunity to push the limits of precision, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP delivers excellence. Drawing directly from HRC’s MotoGP development program, this flagship supersport model represents the purest expression of Honda’s racing DNA brought to the street. Every component—from the aerodynamics to the advanced electronics—serves a singular purpose: delivering uncompromising performance and absolute control. When success is measured in hundredths of a second, the Fireblade SP is not just a motorcycle—it’s a statement of intent.
- Color: Grand Prix Red
- MSRP: $28,999
- Available: January
- Info
CB300R
Delivering pure riding enjoyment through minimalist design and responsive performance, Honda’s CB300R proves that less can be more. Ideal for new and returning riders who prioritize value, approachability, style and performance, this naked bike pairs Honda’s Neo Sports Café aesthetic with lightweight agility and real-world versatility. Simple, refined and confident, the CB300R captures the essence of motorcycling in its most elemental form.
- Colors: Pearl Dusk Yellow; Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $4,499
- Available: January
- Info
NT1100 DCT
Delivering long-distance comfort without sacrificing agility or everyday usability, Honda’s NT1100 DCT is born from the same engineering DNA as the Africa Twin but with a sportier focus, blending touring practicality with a nimble, confidence-inspiring character. Developed for those who view motorcycling as both a means of covering distance and an experience to savor, the NT1100 DCT is equally at home on weekday commutes or cross-country adventures. Its proven DCT technology, modern electronics package and all-day comfort make it a sport-tourer that delivers more with every mile.
- Color: Gray Metallic
- MSRP: $11,999
- Available: January
- Info
SCL500
Blending modern engineering with nostalgic design, Honda’s SCL500 captures the freedom and simplicity of the original scramblers that helped define motorcycling’s golden era. Built around Honda’s proven 471cc parallel-twin engine, it delivers approachable power and agile handling for riders who want equal parts style and substance. With its upright ergonomics, lightweight chassis and unmistakable scrambler silhouette, the SCL500 turns every commute or backroad into an easygoing adventure—proof that timeless design still has a place in the modern world.
- Color: Matte Black Metallic
- MSRP: $6,999
- Available: January
- Info
NC750X DCT
Few motorcycles handle everyday practicality and weekend adventure in one package quite like Honda’s NC750X DCT. Developed for riders who value versatility, efficiency and real-world usability, this midsize adventure model blends commuter-friendly comfort with genuine touring capability. Its smooth parallel-twin engine, seamless Dual Clutch Transmission and signature built-in storage compartment make it as enjoyable in daily traffic as it is on a winding backroad. Year after year, the NC750X DCT continues to stand out as a forward-thinking machine that embodies Honda’s belief that performance and practicality can coexist in perfect balance.
- Color: Matte Pearl White
- MSRP: $9,499
- Available: January
- Info
XR150L
Built with practicality, reliability and everyday adventure in mind, Honda’s XR150L continues to define accessibility in the dual-sport world. Prioritizing value and simplicity, the model bridges the gap between daily transportation and off-road exploration. Whether navigating city streets, traversing farm roads or exploring forest trails, the XR150L delivers dependable performance and approachable handling that inspire confidence. Backed by the legendary toughness of Honda’s XR lineage, Honda’s smallest dual-sport machine is the ultimate gateway to two-wheeled freedom.
- Colors: White; Gray
- MSRP: $3,399
- Available: February
- Info
Gold Wing
For over half a century, Honda’s iconic Gold Wing has defined the art of long-distance motorcycle touring. Developed for riders who measure journeys in memories as much as miles, the platform blends comfort, technology and performance in a way only Honda can achieve. With its legendary six-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, refined chassis and advanced technology, the Gold Wing continues to elevate the touring experience, setting the benchmark for two-wheel luxury and adventure. Available in Gold Wing or Gold Wing Tour trims—each offered with an Automatic DCT option—plus a Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT version, the Gold Wing lineup gives riders choices tailored to how they travel.
- Colors
- Gold Wing: Matte Silver
- Gold Wing Automatic DCT: Matte Silver
- Gold Wing Tour: Deep Pearl Gray; Metallic Black; Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT: Deep Pearl Gray; Metallic Black; Candy Ardent Red
- Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT: Metallic Black
- MSRP
- Gold Wing: $25,500
- Gold Wing Automatic DCT: $26,500
- Gold Wing Tour: $29,500
- Gold Wing Tour Automatic DCT: $30,500
- Gold Wing Tour Airbag Automatic DCT: $33,800
- Available: January
- Info
NT1100 Police
Built on the capable foundation of Honda’s popular sport-touring model, the NT1100 Police was developed to meet the unique demands of law-enforcement professionals. Combining proven reliability, balanced performance and long-distance comfort, the model provides motor officers with a versatile, efficient platform for patrol duty. With refined ergonomics, specialized equipment and Honda’s signature quality, the NT1100 Police provides the tools and comfort motor officers need to perform their duties across a wide range of environments—from urban streets to open highways.
- Color: White
- MSRP: $14,499
- Available: January
- Info
Indian Motorcycle’s ‘NEVER FINISHED’ Anniversary Campaign Celebrates 125 Years of Historic Innovation and Iconic Motorcycles
Since its first motorcycle rolled off the line in 1901 in Springfield, Mass., Indian Motorcycle has embodied American craftsmanship, proven performance, unwavering reliability, and trailblazing innovation. More than a century later, those same qualities fuel America’s First Motorcycle Company to keep pushing American V-Twins forward with purpose and precision.
In celebration of its 125th anniversary, Indian Motorcycle today announced Never Finished, a year-long campaign that pays tribute to the pioneering spirit of founders George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom, while declaring that Indian Motorcycle will never stop challenging limits. Never Finished is a reflection of the Indian Motorcycle brand, which has been driven by progress and innovation since 1901.
“The pursuit of innovation that drove our founders continues to drive us today,” Nate Secor, Director of Marketing for Indian Motorcycle. “Whether through design, engineering, or marketing, we push ourselves every day to honor that legacy. The Never Finished campaign isn’t just a celebration of our 125-year history, it’s a commitment to our riders that we are always innovating, always competing, and will always be pushing forward.”
Following successful careers as bicycle racers in the late 19th century, Hendee and Hedstrom joined forces to engineer gasoline-powered bicycles to pace competitive races. At the time, early motorized pacers were notoriously unreliable, often sputtering to a stop and drawing laughs from spectators as racers pedaled past. Hendee and Hedstrom, however, built machines that performed flawlessly, earning respect and attention. Recognizing the potential, they set out to produce motor-assisted bicycles for mass production.
In 1901, Hendee and Hedstrom introduced America’s first motorcycle, marking the birth of Indian Motorcycle. By 1913, the company had become the market leader, producing 30,000 units annually in what was then the world’s largest motorcycle factory. Indian Motorcycle’s rise was fueled by its reputation for reliability, innovation, and technology.
As America’s First Motorcycle Company, Indian Motorcycle continues to push boundaries and move forward. Across its entire lineup, each motorcycle is built with purpose and precision, crafted with no shortcuts to take on every mile ahead. The brand empowers riders to forge their own path with machines that stand apart for those who refuse to blend in. Reaching 125 years is a historic milestone and a true testament to the riders who refused to let the spirit of Indian Motorcycle fade through a 60-year hiatus and to those who helped fuel the brand’s return more than a decade ago. With 125 years of road behind it, Indian Motorcycle’s legacy serves as a launchpad, shaped by its rich history and driven forward by competitive spirit, grit, and determination.
Throughout 2026, Indian Motorcycle will celebrate its 125th anniversary through a variety of products, programs, and rider promotions. More information will be shared throughout the year. To stay informed, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.
