This week in US Powersports business.
LiveWire Group, Inc. Commences Production of All‑New S4 Honcho™ Mini‑Moto Models
LiveWire Group, Inc. (NYSE: LVWR), a leader in the electric motorcycle industry, today announced the start of production of its newest models, the S4 Honcho™ Trail and S4 Honcho™ Street, marking a major milestone in the company’s next phase of global growth.
First unveiled as concepts at Harley‑Davidson Homecoming in Milwaukee and EICMA in Milan, the S4 Honcho platform represents LiveWire’s strategic expansion into lightweight, more accessible electric motorcycles built to meet accelerating global demand.
LiveWire S4 Honcho Street
Production is now underway, with the first units expected to arrive at authorized LiveWire retail locations this summer and broader global availability continuing throughout 2026.
“S4 Honcho is about opening up electric riding to a much broader audience,” said Karim Donnez, CEO of LiveWire. “It’s lightweight, approachable, and built to be used—whether you’re new to riding or just looking for something more fun and flexible day to day.”
Expanding Access to Electric Motorcycling Worldwide
The S4 Honcho™ platform brings the core advantages of electric propulsion—instant torque, simplicity, and low operating cost—into a compact, highly approachable package. Designed for urban mobility, outdoor exploration, and everyday versatility, Honcho targets new riders, commuters, RV travelers, and adventure‑minded consumers.
LiveWire S4 Honcho Trail
Both Trail and Street models are 125cc‑equivalent mini‑motos, qualifying for A1 licenses in Europe and the U.K., as well as standard motorcycle endorsements in the U.S., significantly expanding LiveWire’s global addressable market.
Each model launches alongside a growing range of accessories, enabling riders to tailor their bikes to individual lifestyles and use cases.
Performance Built for Real‑World Riding
Weighing approximately 250 pounds including batteries, the S4 Honcho delivers agile handling and confident performance. With a top speed of up to 59 mph and 0–30 mph acceleration in approximately 3 seconds, Honcho balances responsive urban performance with everyday usability.
The platform features two removable, swappable batteries—delivering up to 53 miles (WMTC)* and 73 miles at 20 mph (constant speed), with 20–80% recharge in approximately 2 hours (110V)—allowing for flexible charging both on and off the motorcycle, ideal for apartment dwellers, travelers, and riders on the move.
Trail and Street variants are visually and functionally differentiated, each equipped with 12‑inch wheels, reverse functionality, purpose-built styling, and seat heights of 32” (Trail) and 31” (Street) aligned to their intended use.
Strategic Partnerships Powering Scale and Efficiency
The S4 Honcho platform is produced by KYMCO, leveraging global manufacturing expertise alongside Harley‑Davidson’s established international dealer network. These partnerships support scalability, efficiency, and expanded global reach—key enablers of LiveWire’s long-term growth strategy.
The launch marks the next step in LiveWire’s EV platform evolution, reinforcing its commitment to advancing urban and lifestyle electric mobility worldwide.
Pricing & Availability
- S4 Honcho™ Trail — $4,999 MSRP**
- S4 Honcho™ Street — $5,499 MSRP**
- Production began in late May 2026
- First units arriving at retail locations summer 2026
- Global availability expanding across supported markets throughout 2026
Performance
- Top Speed: 59 mph (both models)
- 0–30 mph: 3.0 seconds (both models)
- Range: Up to 53 miles (WMTC)* / 73 miles @ 20 mph (constant speed)
- Reverse: Standard
Battery & Charging
- Dual removable batteries (both models)
- 3.48 kWh combined capacity
- 20–80% charge in approximately 2 hours (110V)
Dimensions & Weight
- Seat Height
- Trail: 32”
- Street: 31”
- Weight
- Trail: 253 lbs.
- Street: 266 lbs.
Warranty
- Trail: 1 year
- Street: 2 years
Learn More
- Models & Availability: Explore Models
- Dealer Locations: Find a Dealer
American Motorcyclist Association Applauds House T&I Committee’s Passage of BUILD America 250 Act
The American Motorcyclist Association applauds the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (T&I Committee) for advancing the BUILD America 250 Act, a five-year surface transportation reauthorization package that includes important provisions that impact motorcyclists.
The AMA supports federal transportation policies that improve rider safety, expand access to recreational opportunities and protect individual freedoms. Earlier this year, Congress started drafting a long-term federal transportation bill and the AMA was involved, working to protect the interests of motorcyclists.
“The AMA is grateful that members of Congress paid attention to motorcycle-related provisions in the BUILD America 250 Act,” said AMA Washington Representative Zach Farmer. “This legislation provides one of the few opportunities to advance priorities like Right-to-Repair, continued Recreational Trail Program funding, and new protections for motorcyclists related to autonomous vehicles.”
Included in this bill, and supported by the AMA, is the extension of authorization for the Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC). This group provides motorcyclists an opportunity to advise Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and the U.S. Department of Transportation. The AMA advocated for the MAC’s creation and has consistently supported the council’s work at the federal level. AMA Washington Representative Zach Farmer will serve on the revitalized MAC as a representative member.
In addition, the legislation also strengthens federal protection against motorcyclist profiling by expanding existing language to prohibit discrimination by vehicle type or attire. The AMA has long opposed motorcycle-only checkpoints and discriminatory enforcement practices targeting riders. Efforts also included provisions related to autonomous vehicles requiring consumer education on partially autonomous systems. The AMA continues to advocate for autonomous safety standards and testing that ensures systems properly detect motorcycles.
The AMA has consistently worked to ensure that motorcyclists remain part of the national transportation conversation. We also recognize the efforts of congressional champions and coalition partners who worked to advance these priorities through the committee process. The BUILD America 250 Act will now advance for further consideration by the full U.S. House of Representatives.
Stay up to date with the latest AMA Government Relations news by signing up for AMA Right’s updates at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/rights/rights-resources/subscribe-for-rights-updates/.
AMA Washington D.C. Representative Zach Farmer Appointed to Motorcyclist Advisory Council
United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy has appointed AMA Washington D.C. Representative Zach Farmer to the Motorcyclist Advisory Council (MAC) as a representative member.
In this role, Farmer will work with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to create a safer environment for motorcyclists on America’s roads and highways by offering his expertise regarding motorcyclist safety in a variety of areas, including the integration of emerging transportation technologies and roadway designs.
“I appreciate the opportunity to serve on the Motorcyclist Advisory Council,” Farmer said. “The AMA worked diligently with U.S. DOT officials and members of Congress over the last several years to emphasize the need for real-world rider perspective and reconvene the MAC. I look forward to working with the Office of the Secretary of Transportation to provide insight and practical solutions on behalf of AMA members.”
During Farmer’s term on the MAC, he will work alongside several other stakeholders within the motorcycling community to provide key insight to the DOT regarding motorcyclist safety. Additionally, the MAC will be tasked with providing a biannual in-depth report to Sec. Duffy containing recommendations regarding motorcycle safety, barrier and road design, and the implementation of intelligent transportation system technologies.
The MAC has undergone restructuring across the previous two administrations, and the council was reestablished in 2025, resuming its mission of bringing rider safety to the forefront of the legislative agenda. The newly revitalized MAC will host its first meeting on July 15.
The American Motorcyclist Association has a long history of supporting the mission of the MAC and serving in positions of leadership on the MAC. We look forward to working alongside members of the MAC to ensure that motorcyclists’ voices are heard at the federal level of government.
Stay up to date with the AMA’s government relations efforts at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/rights/ .
Wild Ass Seat Cushions Helps Make 4 World Motorcycle Distance Records
Patrick Cornell known as “Vroom Old Man” in social media just finished riding his 2025 Indian Pursuit motorcycle over 200,000 miles in one year. That is more than 8 times around the Earth at the equator. What made it possible for Patrick and his motorcycle nicknamed “Pappy” to ride all those 1000 mile days back-to-back? A reliable motorcycle, exhaustive mechanical preparation, unequivocal attention to his body’s need for good nutrition and hydration…and a WildAss seat cushion!
Patrick Cornell, long distance rider (LDR) and WildAss seat cushion founder Craig Johnson celebrate the four long-distance riding records (to be certified) achieved on “Pappy” the Indian Pursuit motorcycle.
When Patrick first bought his Wild Ass seat cushion a year ago at the full retail price, he stated to brand owner Craig Johnson, “If it doesn’t work, you’re getting this sucker back!” A year later after nearly riding more than Artemis II travelled to the Moon, Patrick rolled into the Finish Line Party at Bert’s Black Pearl Indian & Triumph in Fort Myers, Florida stating, “This cushion does everything you said it would do.”
“Pappy” the motorcycle is fully equipped with navigation gear, fuel cells, communication/audio technology, auxiliary lighting…and a WildAss “Smart Classic” model cushion.
“That’s one helluva testimonial for an aftermarket product like ours,” says Craig Johnson, founder of WildAss seat cushions. “I am so proud to have had a customer like Patrick Cornell and his motorcycle Pappy. We are all hoping Guinness awards him the 4 certified records he is due–Longest Continuous Motorcycle Ride in One Country, Most Days on a Motorcycle Averaging 1000 Miles, the Most Consecutive 1000 Mile Days on a Motorcycle, the Most Miles Ridden on a Motorcycle in One Year Awards.
The 2025 Indian Pursuit equipped with the new 112 c.i. PowerPlus v-twin motor travelled the full distance of 200,000 miles with minimal issues.
The engineered technology exclusive to Wild Ass provides superior cushioning, cooling and breathability. It is unlike what the less expensive competitors and primary seat manufacturers use…and it really makes a difference on those long rides. Patrick just proved it. Congratulations!
Ducati Desmo450 EDS: the first enduro motorcycle from the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer
The Desmo450 EDS is the first modern Ducati enduro bike. A bike born from a clear vision, one that speaks of passion, technology and competition. A vision that, with the Desmo450 EDS, moves to the trails and mule tracks where the discipline was born. An environment where the challenges are unpredictable, the terrain constantly changing and every meter must be conquered. Enduro is a unique discipline that requires endurance, control and versatility. And, as a result, it must be tackled with a motorcycle designed specifically for this sport.
Ducati engineers started from the technical base of the Desmo450 MX, modifying and developing solutions and components to create a bike that is effective in tackling longer distances, more complex and varied terrain, different challenges. The new 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, with Metzeler Six Days Extreme tyres, offer stability, traction and precision on any surface. The new 8.5-litre fuel tank, housed in an aluminium perimeter frame, increases range for longer rides without compromising the ergonomics thanks to its upwardly slender design and redesigned side panels and seat. The transparent tank itself allows the rider to check the fuel level at a glance, an essential feature for an enduro bike.
The single-cylinder engine with desmodromic timing has been completely redesigned to maximize torque and smooth power delivery, improving control and precision. The electric fan cooling system improves performance consistency and reliability even in the most extreme enduro environments. These are situations where protection is not an accessory, but must be an integral part of the design: for this reason, the Desmo450 EDS comes standard with a full suite of dedicated protective components designed specifically for enduro. Hand guards, engine guards and dedicated clutch and alternator covers protect the most exposed parts of the bike from impacts, scrapes and abrasions.
The front fairing incorporates a dedicated LED headlight unit reminiscent of Ducati superbikes, giving the 450 EDS a distinctive look consistent with the styling of the Ducati brand. The LCD dashboard provides all the information a rider needs for a day on off-road trails.
Chassis Designed for Enduro
The Desmo450 EDS frame is based on the aluminium perimeter frame of the Desmo450 MX, further developed by working on the engine mounts to achieve the right stiffness for Enduro. The frame design creates a lightweight structure that allows the engine to have the straightest possible intake and exhaust ducts for maximum performance. The Borgo Panigale-based company’s engineers have succeeded in creating a structure weighing less than 9 kg, featuring the least possible number of welds, thus achieving the desired weight, reliability and stiffness targets.
The Desmo450 EDS frame is made of just 11 parts—about half the number of its competitors—and is composed of cast, forged and extruded elements. The front section, which connects the steering head to the upper shock absorber mount, is a single cast element. This construction technology, which Ducati also uses on its Superbike frames, allows for complete control of the thicknesses, using only the necessary amount of material at each point and creating complex shapes without compromising weight or strength.
The frame significantly contributes to keeping the weight of the bike low.
The Desmo450 EDS confirms its collaboration with Showa for the suspension. The Japanese manufacturer worked with Ducati test riders, including multiple enduro world champion and European Supercross Champion Antoine Meo, to develop its first fork model specifically dedicated to this discipline. With 49 mm stanchions and 310 mm of travel, and softer springs than those fitted to the Desmo450 MX, the fork offers greater ability to absorb bumps such as rocks and roots, typical of enduro, greater confidence when entering corners and improved control on slow and technical sections. At the same time, the shock absorber, mounted on a progressive link, was designed to provide traction and stability during acceleration.
The result is a motorcycle that makes riding easier and increases the confidence of the rider, whether amateur or professional, even on the most technical sections. An agile and manoeuvrable bike that allows for quick changes of direction and offers total control, reducing fatigue during races and long training rides.
For the braking system, Ducati has again chosen to collaborate with Brembo, with which it has developed a benchmark braking system for motocross, as it has done for many years on its road bikes. The front features a two-piston floating caliper, while the rear features a single-piston caliper. The Galfer brake discs are 260 mm at the front and 240 mm at the rear; the pads were specifically designed with the specific modulation requirements of enduro riding in mind.
Single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic valve control
The Desmo450 EDS engine is derived from the Cross MX and has undergone a thorough redesign to enhance its most important characteristic for enduro riding: a power delivery that contributes to improved traction and rider control while also providing the necessary acceleration to push through the most challenging obstacles with one gear. The desmodromic distribution system makes a fundamental contribution to this goal: it allows for an engine with a very strong torque curve at low and medium revs, while also being able to rev at very high revs.
Competitive riders can purchase and have the Ducati Performance racing kit installed at an authorized workshop. This kit includes the exhaust system, various intake components, a dedicated engine mapping and a selector switch that, like the 450 MX, allows for different Riding Modes.
The 450 EDS’s single-cylinder engine offers a smooth, progressive and always manageable power delivery, combined with excellent overall acceleration and the right amount of acceleration when opening the throttle. It’s the perfect bike for tackling slow sections, natural obstacles and technical climbs, but also for unleashing speed on fast inline special stages and cross-country tests. This is thanks to a 42 mm (rather than 44 mm) throttle body, dedicated camshafts, a piston with a lower compression ratio, a specially designed exhaust and a connecting rod assembly with greater inertia, particularly on the crankshaft and flywheel.
The engine is more effectively protected from impacts with obstacles typical of enduro riding by aluminium valve, ignition and clutch covers, which are more robust than the magnesium ones used on the 450 MX. The clutch requires less effort than on cross-country bikes, to reduce rider fatigue, and the gearbox features six gears, with ratios dedicated to enduro riding. Specifically, first gear is shorter to improve acceleration and control on more technical sections, while sixth is longer for greater efficiency in long riding sessions. The intermediate gears are spaced differently than on the motocross bike to maximize engine torque even in slower corners and better adapt to the different enduro situations.
The cooling system, revised compared to the MX model, retains the rhomboid-shaped radiators, which allow for a 6.5% larger radiating surface area compared to a traditional solution, improving engine cooling while maintaining a compact design, which gives the rider greater freedom of movement towards the front of the bike despite the larger fuel tank. The integrated electric fan ensures continuous cooling even at low speeds, such as on the most challenging tracks, thus improving reliability and consistent performance even in the most extreme enduro situations.
Electronics and DTC
By adopting the Ducati Performance racing kit, the Desmo450 EDS is equipped with a true traction control system, introduced on the 450 MX and specifically calibrated for enduro use, offering benefits in terms of rider safety and energy saving. Reducing psychophysical demands, especially on difficult terrain, is essential to help the rider maintain clarity and responsiveness during longer, more demanding riding sessions.
Unlike systems currently available in specialized off-road riding, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) calibrates power reduction based on actual rear wheel spin, thus ensuring an effective, rapid and linear intervention. This system is able to identify moments when it shouldn’t be used, such as jumps, and automatically deactivates itself. Furthermore, if the rider identifies points on the route where he or she wants to exploit the full performance of the engine, the system can be deactivated with a light pressure on the clutch lever. The control will automatically re-engage a few moments later.
Ducati Traction Control offers four different levels of intervention. Two are dedicated to faster riders, while two are designed to offer greater safety and confidence to less experienced riders. In both cases, the lowest level is designed for dry, flowing terrain, such as marked tracks or special stages on more compact terrain, while the highest level is calibrated to assist the rider on rough, wet or otherwise slippery surfaces.
The electronics package offered by the racing kit includes Launch Control and Engine Brake Control, which, like DTC, can be configured with different intervention levels and associated with two Riding Modes that riders can adapt to their needs and the characteristics of the track via the X-Link app, which connects to the bike via a Wi-Fi module. The gearbox is equipped with a Quickshifter.
Adaptive Maintenance
Maintenance for the Desmo450 EDS includes two types of intervention, defined as “MID” and “FULL.” The MID Service includes piston replacement and valve clearance checks and can vary between 90 and 120 hours, depending on actual engine wear. The FULL Service, which includes a complete engine overhaul, can vary approximately between 180 and 240 hours, again depending on the conditions and wear detected.
A specific algorithm for the Desmo450 calculates a real-time engine stress index based on operating parameters and conditions of use. This index also considers the type of surface on which the bike is ridden and constantly increments an engine wear percentage counter. The system then updates the maintenance schedules based on this information, which can be viewed via the Ducati X-Link app. In this way, inspection and service schedules are tailored to the rider’s riding style, with more frequent interventions for professional/intensive riders or more spaced out for amateur riders, going beyond traditional static schedules.
Accessories
Thanks to the Ducati Performance catalogue, you can make your Ducati Desmo450 EDS even more high-performance. The special parts on offer include Factory parts machined from solid, such as wheel hubs and triple clamps, as well as a complete exhaust or Akrapovič titanium slip-on muffler and Brembo Racing brake calipers. The list of available accessories will be gradually expanded.
Finally, to complete the Factory look, the Ducati Performance catalogue offers a complete technical collection created in collaboration with Drudi Performance. The offering includes an Alpinestars jersey/pants/gloves/boots set, an Arai helmet, a wind vest, a softshell and a Spidi rain jacket.
Availability
The Desmo450 EDS will be available at select European dealerships starting in July 2026. Distribution will be extended to the rest of the world thereafter.
*Not for road use
Desmo450 EDS
- Colours
- Ducati Red
- Main standard features
- Desmo450 single-cylinder engine, 449.6 cc
- Twin-spar aluminium frame
- 5-litre fuel tank
- Fully adjustable 49 mm Showa upside-down forks, 310 mm travel, Kashima coating on the fork legs, specifically tuned for Enduro
- Fully adjustable Showa monoshock, 301 mm travel
- Cast aluminium swingarm
- Brembo braking system with single Galfer discs, 260 mm (front) and 240 mm (rear)
- Metzeler Six Days Extreme tyres, 80/100-21″ and 110/90-18″
- DID chain final drive
- Takasago Excel aluminium rims with Alpina spokes, 21″ x 1.60″ and 18″ x 2.15″
- 2 Power Modes, 2 Riding Modes (with racing kit)
- Riding Modes configurable via the accessory X-Link app (with racing kit)
- Next-generation electronics package with Ducati Traction Control (DTC); Launch Control; Quickshifter, Engine Brake Control (with racing kit)
- Piston replacement every 90 hours (extendable up to 120 hours according to X-Link indications)
- Valve clearance check every 180 hours (extendable up to 240 hours according to X-Link indications)
Harley-Davidson Announces Return of Revolution Max Production to U.S. Facilities
Harley-Davidson, Inc. (“Harley-Davidson” or the “Company”) (NYSE: HOG) today announced that it is bringing production of the Revolution® Max platform for North America back to the United States as part of the Company’s Back to the Bricks strategy. The move brings machining, powertrain assembly, painting, and final vehicle assembly work back to Harley-Davidson facilities in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, supporting skilled union jobs and strengthening the Company’s American manufacturing footprint.
The production transition is expected to be completed ahead of the start of Model Year 2028 production in 2027. Harley-Davidson expects to manufacture over 100,000 motorcycles out of the Company’s York, Pennsylvania facility in 2027.
The Company shared the following statement:
For more than a century, Harley-Davidson has invested in American manufacturing, skilled workers, and the communities that build our motorcycles. Today, we’re proud to announce another step forward by bringing production of the Revolution® Max platform for North America—including Pan America, Sportster® S, and Nightster models—back to the United States. This move returns machining, powertrain assembly, painting, and final vehicle assembly work to our facilities in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, supporting dozens of additional American manufacturing and union jobs.
The Trump Administration’s changes to U.S. trade policy, combined with shifts in the global trade environment, have created new opportunities for companies to invest in domestic manufacturing. For Harley-Davidson under our new CEO Artie Starrs, this means we are able to lean even further into our American manufacturing footprint and build more motorcycles here at home. This decision, which has been months in the making, reflects our commitment to strengthening Harley-Davidson’s manufacturing base for the long term.
Harley-Davidson has built motorcycles that represent freedom, independence, and American craftsmanship for 123 consecutive years. That legacy was built by generations of employees, many of them union workers, whose skill and dedication continue to define this company today. We are grateful to our employees, our network of 500+ U.S. dealers, and most importantly our riders for their continued support as we get back to basics that have made Harley-Davidson an enduring symbol of freedom and the most iconic motorcycle brand in the world.
Bill Davidson, Vice President, Special Advisor to the CEO and Global Brand Ambassador, said, “My family has spent generations working in this company, and I’ve seen firsthand the pride, craftsmanship, and hard work that go into building Harley-Davidson motorcycles in America. My father, Willie, my sister, Karen, and I are incredibly excited about what’s happening at Harley-Davidson. Bringing this work back home is another important step in getting back to the bricks, investing in American manufacturing, and building on the values that have made Harley-Davidson one of the most iconic brands in the world.”
RideNow Group, Inc. Announces Major Expansion of RideNow Tallahassee
RideNow Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: RDNW) (“we”, “our”, the “Company”, or “RideNow”), a leading U.S. powersports vehicle retailer, today announced the opening of a new flagship facility for RideNow Tallahassee. In its move to 3213 Apalachee Pkwy, the dealership has tripled its footprint to 27,000 square feet, creating a comprehensive destination designed to better support the needs of the Florida Panhandle riding community.
The new facility represents a total reimagining of the customer experience. By increasing staffing levels by 25% and creating a site with easier entrance and exit for customer parking, RideNow Tallahassee is prioritizing the convenience and service standards that riders demand. The expansion also features a state-of-the-art service department and a massive new accessory and clothing section, boasting a large selection of riding gear.
“Moving into our new powersports facility is a huge milestone for our team and customers,” said Jon Buck, General Manager of RideNow Tallahassee. “With nearly three times the space, we can bring in more inventory than ever before — giving our customers the largest selection in the Florida Panhandle for on-road motorcycles, off-road machines, personal watercraft, Polaris Slingshots, and Yamaha boats, along with a massive lineup of riding gear and accessories. We’re beyond excited to welcome everyone into our new showroom and deliver an even better buying and riding experience.”
The dealership now offers an extensive roster of the top powersports brands, including Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, CFMOTO, Royal Enfield, and Club Car. A major highlight of the move is the addition of Polaris Off-Road vehicles to the Tallahassee market. With a vast selection of both new and used ATVs, UTVs, personal watercraft, and motorcycles, riders of all levels will find a machine suited for any adventure.
“This expansion marks another exciting chapter in our long-standing partnership with Polaris Industries,” said Cam Tkach, Chief Operating Officer of RideNow Group, Inc. “RideNow Tallahassee is now our 30th Polaris store, reinforcing our commitment to delivering the full lineup of Polaris off-road vehicles to riders across the country. Together with Polaris, we’re proud to bring world-class powersports experiences to the Florida Panhandle.”
Looking ahead, RideNow Tallahassee plans to expand its service to seven days a week and will serve as a community cornerstone by hosting monthly Bike Nights and other onsite events.
