This week in US Powersports business.
Ducati introduces predictive maintenance for the Desmo450 MX
Ducati is bringing a revolutionary innovation to the world of off-road motorcycling: predictive maintenance. After introducing in motocross the first Traction Control system capable of accurately determining the actual slip of the rear wheel, the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer has developed, for the Desmo450 MX, a brand-new software system for calculating maintenance intervals, based on the intensity of engine use. To access all this new features, fans can simply visit their local Ducati dealer, where they can have the engine control unit updated free of charge.
Drawing on its experience in Superbike and MotoGP, Ducati Corse has developed a specific algorithm for the Desmo450 MX that calculates an engine stress index in real time, based on operating parameters and usage conditions. This index also takes into account the type of terrain on which the bike is being ridden, and continuously increases a percentage-based engine wear counter. The system then uses this counter to update maintenance schedules, which can be viewed via the Ducati X-Link app.
In this way, the intervals for inspection and servicing are tailored to the rider’s riding style, with more frequent servicing for professional or intensive use, or less frequent servicing for amateur riders, moving beyond traditional static schedules. If the stress on the engine is lower than that anticipated in the calculation of the maintenance deadline — based on Alessandro Lupino’s use of the bike — it is therefore possible to postpone servicing, offering a financial benefit to the customer and longer intervals between services.
The interval for the MID Service, which involves replacing the piston and checking the valve clearances, can therefore vary between 45 and 60 hours, depending on the actual wear and tear of the engine. Similarly, a full engine overhaul (FULL Service) can take between 90 and 120 hours.
On the official Ducati website, you can configure your own Desmo450 MX or arrange a visit to your nearest dealership. All the information is available on the official Ducati website.
LaCheryl E. Jones Named MSF Director of Curriculum and Training Strategy
LaCheryl E. Jones, a leader in motorcycle safety policy and rider education, has joined the Motorcycle Safety Foundation as Director of Curriculum and Training Strategy.
Jones comes to MSF from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, where she served as Highway Safety Specialist – Motorcycle Safety, Micromobility Safety, and Bicycle Safety Program Manager. In that role, she led the federal Motorcycle Safety Program and worked with states, territories, and partner organizations to create data-driven rider safety initiatives. Jones also helped strengthen rider training by growing instructor and program capacity nationwide.
At MSF, Jones will help guide curriculum development and oversight across training programs while supporting professional development, training integrity, and standards-related work. She will also serve as a key representative for MSF with strategic partners and stakeholders on issues related to rider education, testing, and licensing.
“LaCheryl brings deep experience in public service, motorcycle safety, and quality assurance frameworks,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. “Her background with NHTSA and with the Maryland Department of Transportation gives her a strong understanding of the issues shaping curriculum development today. We’re excited to have her help advance MSF’s safety initiatives and to connect more deeply with our training community.”
Before joining MSF, Jones served as NHTSA’s subject matter expert on motorcycle safety. She also held leadership roles with the Maryland Department of Transportation overseeing driver and rider licensing and instructional services. Jones is a licensed motorcyclist with a longstanding connection to MSF rider training.
“I’m honored to join the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and contribute to an organization whose work has had such a lasting impact on rider education worldwide,” Jones said. “I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute my experience, strategic perspective, and passion for rider safety to an organization whose work saves lives and shapes the future of powersports education.”
Massimo Motor Accelerates Fleet Expansion; Strong Demand for HVAC-Equipped Utility Platforms at NAFA 2026
Massimo Motor (“Massimo” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based provider of utility-focused vehicles, today announced continued expansion of its fleet sales pipeline following strong engagement at the NAFA 2026 Institute & Expo in Cleveland, Ohio.
The Company reported high levels of interest from municipal, county and commercial fleet operators, with particular focus on its HVAC-equipped Sentinel Series UTVs and MVR Pro Series electric carts. These platforms are designed to support all-weather, high-frequency operational use across environments such as public works, infrastructure maintenance, campus operations and industrial facilities.
Massimo believes its factory-integrated HVAC platforms address a key operational need for fleet customers, enabling consistent vehicle utilization across varying climate conditions. This differentiation is contributing to increased engagement with government agencies and commercial operators evaluating next-generation utility vehicle solutions.
The Company noted growing RFP activity and ongoing discussions with multiple municipalities and county-level agencies regarding potential deployments. In parallel, Massimo continues to expand its presence within industrial and warehousing environments, including recent deliveries to a major global automotive manufacturer supporting internal logistics and facility operations.
“We saw strong engagement at NAFA from fleet operators actively evaluating solutions that can perform reliably across a wide range of operating conditions,” said Quenton Petersen, Chief Executive Officer of Massimo. “Our HVAC-equipped Sentinel Series UTVs and MVR Pro Series electric carts are designed to meet these demands, particularly in applications where continuous use, operator comfort and durability are critical.”
Mr. Petersen continued, “We are encouraged by the level of interest translating into active discussions and evaluations across both municipal and enterprise customers. As we continue to build our fleet sales pipeline, we believe this segment represents an increasingly important component of our growth strategy, particularly in high-utilization, site-based operating environments.”
Massimo remains focused on scaling its fleet sales program nationwide, targeting public sector, commercial, and industrial customers seeking durable, cost-effective mobility solutions. The Company believes its differentiated product offering—combining electric mobility, utility-driven design, and climate-controlled cabins—positions it to address evolving fleet requirements and support long-term growth.
Polaris Inc. First Quarter 2026 Financial Results Available on Company’s Website
Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) reported first quarter 2026 financial results today through an earnings release posted on the Company’s Investor Relations website at ir.polaris.com. The earnings release will be furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on a Form 8-K and is available at sec.gov. The Company will also hold a conference call with analysts and investors today at 9:00 a.m. CT.
Conference Call and Webcast Details
The call and webcast can be accessed via the Webcast link on our website at ir.polaris.com or by dialing 1-877-883-0383 in the U.S. or 1-412-902-6506 Internationally using access code 5197203. Related presentation materials and a replay of the webcast will also be accessible on our website at ir.polaris.com, and a replay of the call will be available by dialing 1-855-669-9658 in the U.S., or 1-412-317-0088 Internationally using access code 7781855.
NINE NEW 2027 KTM SX MOTORCYCLES ARE PRIMED FOR THE DIRT
KTM’s unbeatable motocross line-up returns for 2027 with a refreshed look and renewed ambition. Whatever your speed, whatever the ability, whatever the age or target; copy the racing stars with a KTM SX excellence.
Motocross: the fiercest and most thrilling test of bike and rider. KTM offers the best possible exploration of this world thanks to a comprehensive 9-model line-up that spans all ages and every goal. From the first meters of offroad as a junior to the heights of top competition, there is a KTM SX minicycle, KTM SX or SX-F with the finest race-derived engineering for all motorcyclists everywhere. A strong production package sets the bar; personal preference then creates the magic.
The proof is in the standard: there has been no better basis for MXGP and MX2 Grand Prix winners Lucas and Sacha Coenen, MX2 World Champion Simon Laengenfelder or AMA SuperMotocross stars like Eli Tomac and Jorge Prado. KTM SXs have also been the choice of champions through European, national and amateur levels.
For 2027 the list of options is still peerless. For junior riders the KTM minicycles offer:
- KTM 50 SX
- KTM 65 SX
- KTM 85 SX
2-stroke and 4-stroke full-size motorcycles include:
- KTM 125 SX
- KTM 250 SX
- KTM 300 SX
- KTM 250 SX-F
- KTM 350 SX-F
- KTM 450 SX-F
The first obvious feature for 2027 is the new colorway and graphics that double-down on unmistakable KTM orange, with a dash of red on the tank spoilers to deepen the impact of on-track presence. The decals are in-molded, so hard-wearing and resistant.
The combination of state-of-the-art engine performance and handling means that 2027 KTM SX is a bona fide consideration for all motocrossers: tried, tested and triumphant.
The hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot-welded steel frame has passed through decades of evolution, and benefits from every single piece of feedback from our race-winning athletes as well as ceaseless development for the best response, stability, flex and weight, no matter the size of the motorcycle. The same path of progression can be seen with the advanced, compact and fierce engine technology fettled with EFI (for 2-stroke models as well). The powerplants are unbeatable for dimensions, torque and horsepower (while adhering to the latest FIM noise limits) for that ‘full grin’ effect.
Premium components grace the full-size KTM SX-Fs and trickle into sister machinery. Each bike profits from the best WP Suspension XACT hardware and settings, and other components like: Pankl gearboxes, Dunlop Geomax MX34 across the board, Excel rims with CNC hubs, Brembo clutches and brake systems, NEKEN handlebars, ODI lock-on grips and Keihin throttle bodies.
The 2027 KTM SX family is not only a full palette for possibilities and potential but also an inclusive celebration of the motocross spirit. For this reason, bikes like the KTM 300 SX still have pride of place, where riders can indulge in the dizzying blend of a throaty 2-stroke blast but with the latest tech to harness the full power-to-weight joy.
The 2027 KTM SX, SX-F and KTM minicycles will arrive in authorized KTM dealers from end of May 2026. Availability may differ from country to country. For full details on pricing and scheduling, please refer to your national KTM subsidiary or importer.
The motorcycles fall under KTM’s new ‘Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty’ for offroad models in certain territories. The policy provides 12 months of warranty and cover for extra peace of mind for any parts or manufacturing defects. The scheme extends the value of the KTM SX if servicing and service intervals are met by an authorized dealer.
For more information and detailed technical specs please visit KTM.com.
2026 Love Moto Stop Cancer Online Auction Benefiting the Kids at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is Now Live
The SMX League is excited to announce that the annual Love Moto Stop Cancer Online Auction benefiting the kids at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is now live, featuring nearly 200 unique items. The auction, which is now live and runs through Monday, May 11 at 8 p.m. ET, has become an annual opportunity for all SuperMotocross fans to collect race worn gear from their favorite racers all while supporting the fight against childhood cancer. Last year’s auction raised nearly $150K, continuing to raise the bar for years to come.
Each year, racers and teams continue to step up and donate their race worn gear and bike plastics to the auction, their contributions continue to lead the industry-wide fundraising efforts for St. Jude and help support their lifesaving mission of Finding Cures. Saving Children.
Some of this years marquee items:
- Eli Tomac Autographed Race Worn Jersey
- Justin Barcia Autographed Race Worn Jersey
- Ken Roczen Autographed Race Worn Jersey
- Chase Sexton Autographed Race Worn Jersey and Helmet
- Malcolm Stewart Race Worn Jersey, Pants, Hand Painted Boot
- Ricky Carmichael and Jeremy McGrath Jerseys
- Autographed Jackson Guitars
- Custom Stacyc Bikes
- And so much more…
Partners of SMX also continue to step up with generous donations that help lift the auction to new heights each year. Often contributing creative one-of-a-kind products and calling on other athletes outside of the SMX community, their contributions are a reflection of the sports commitment to St. Jude’s mission.
Some featured items this year:
- Custom St. Jude Tusk Moto Toolbox donated by Rocky Mountain ATV/MC
- FLY Racing Autographed Helmets
- Custom Oakley Goggles featuring St. Jude strap
- Custom Love Moto Stop Cancer STACYC bikes 16eDRIVE
- Jackson X Series Autographed Guitars
- Autographed Worn Jerseys from Jeremy McGrath’s Holeshot King event in Nashville
- 2025 Pro Motocross Autographed Checkered Flags
For more information about the auction and all other fundraising efforts surrounding St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, please visit Supercrosslive.com/stjude.
