Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Don Emde • donemde@me.com
Associate Publisher/
Editorial Director: Dennis Johnson • dennis@emdebooks.com
Art Director: Morgan Williams
Production &
Accounting Director: Jen Rose • jen@emdebooks.com
Copy Editor: Tracy Emde
Editorial Assistant: Jaxon Emde
Digital Media Manager: Jeff Emde
Design Assistant: Kristina Nystul Breaux
Contributing Writers: Kevin Bailey, Beth Dolgner, Guido Ebert, Don Emde, Jaxon Emde, Glenn Hansen, Ari Henning, Dennis Johnson, Marilyn Stemp
Contributing
Photographers: Kristen Lassen, Tim Lester, Todd Olson, Mike Merritt, Brian J. Nelson, Chad Zimmerman
To our readers: Editorial space in this publication has been offered on an “advertorial” basis. While we have done our best to check the facts, our readers should be aware that the responsibility for accuracy rests with the manufacturers, vendors or sponsors who provided the information to us. – Publisher.
24 Saddlemen: Race-Bred Bagger Parts. Jake Lewis (#85) was one of three Saddlemen Racing Development riders on the grid for the inaugural FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup in Austin, Texas at the MotoGP weekend. Saddlemen’s handmade carbon fiber components and other race-developed products bring track-tested insight back to products for Drag customers. Photo courtesy of Saddlemen
DEPARTMENTS
» 6 Emde Report
» 10 News & Events
» 92 Parts Department
SPECIAL FEATURES
» 20 2026 Mission King of the Baggers Update
» 22 LeMans Growth Academy: Selling Value
» 28 Road King Revival: A Used Bagger Gets a FatBook Makeover
» 44 Built to Tour, Ready to Rip: Products for Performance Baggers and Touring Bikes
» 50 Drag Specialties Dealer Profile: Chariots of Fire Customs
Publishing office: PO Box 6118, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607 Tel: 949-632-4668
Don Emde Inc. Directors: President: Don Emde Vice President: Jen Rose
Secretary/Treasurer: Tracy Emde
WE’RE ONLINE!
Drag Specialties Magazine and Parts Magazine are available online in a digital format. This allows dealers and sales reps to view issues on their computers, tablets and smart phones. See it all at: www.partsmagazineonline.com
Printed in the USA
NOTICE: Drag Specialties does not sell direct to the public. To purchase products seen in this magazine, please see your dealer.
When Bagger racing began in 2020, I told people then that if they didn’t ride Harleys or Indians, they wouldn’t understand what it was all about. And now, six years later, that’s still pretty accurate, although each year there have been more and more converts with Bagger races now running in three different series around the world—Bagger Racing League, MotoAmerica and MotoGP.
Baggers are, and have been for many years, the biggest segment of the V-Twin industry. The Bagger name evolved back in the years when
Saddlemen’s # 87 Race Bagger at the inaugural Drag Specialties King of the Baggers race at Laguna Seca in October 2020. Brian J. Nelson photo
riders of custom bikes with the big front wheels and high handlebars were often towing their cool creations to events in trucks and trailers. But more and more of those custom bike owners accepted the fact that events and rallies would be more fun if they could ride their customized machines to and from these events instead of towing them.
Saddlebags and travel trunks were needed, though, plus seats for two-up riding, a good sound system and more lightning for improved visibility. That blend of Touring and Custom bikes needed a name, and they became known as Baggers.
The next step came when, after making the long rides more comfortable, people then wanted a little more pep for those long stretches of highway. That resulted in bike builds for Performance Baggers.
Travis Wyman was one of Saddlemen’s three riders for the inaugural FIM HarleyDavidson Bagger World Cup races at Austin, Texas in late-March. Photo courtesy of Saddlemen
The number of Bagger race bikes being built these days for competition is only the beginning of the story. What has evolved is that demand grew quickly from road riders who want to take advantage of what has been learned in Bagger racing about improved handling, saving weight, engine performance and reliability.
Since the first King of the Baggers race at Laguna Seca in 2020, numerous aftermarket companies have gotten involved with racing support, as well as products for street riders, but none more than Saddlemen. They had the most advanced looking Race Bagger at the first race and have continued to be involved in Bagger and Super Hooligan racing. Back in late March, Saddlemen fielded a three-rider team in the inaugural FIM HarleyDavidson Bagger World Cup races at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
As seen on this month’s front cover, #85 Jake Lewis and his teammates were easy to spot at COTA with their patriotic red, white and blue Team Saddlemen Harley-Davidson Road Glides. Be sure to check out their story starting on page 24 about their carbon fiber saddlebags and fenders, purpose-built seats and more. They call them Race-Bred Bagger Parts and more will surely follow. ■
Ride Safe!
Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
NEWS EVENTS AND Drag Specialties Welcomes
New Southeast Region Sales Rep
Drag Specialties announced Matthew Maldonado as the newest sales representative for the Southeast region, covering North Carolina.
Maldonado brings a well-rounded background in the Harley-Davidson space, with experience in service advising in California. His background also includes fixed-operations management at Harley-Davidson Louisville, where he also organized an entry-level drag racing series. A dedicated rider, Maldonado races his 2024 CVO Street Glide in the Bagger Racing League and hits the drag strip on his 2006 Dyna Street Bob.
In his free time, Maldonado enjoys working on motorcycles, attending track days, and exploring the open road with motorcycle travel and camping. ■
» The crew at Drag Specialties Magazine welcomes Matthew to his new role.
2026 American Flat Track Racing
KOPP SWEEPS DAYTONA TO OPEN 2026 SEASON
The 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season opened at Daytona with a breakout performance from Kody Kopp, who made history in Mission AFT SuperTwins and then backed it up one night later.
At Daytona I, Kopp became the first rider in Mission AFT SuperTwins history to win in his debut attempt. The Drag Specialties/Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson rider set the fastest time in qualifying, won his heat and took the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge before the Main Event.
The Main Event was far from simple. Reigning champion Dallas Daniels dropped nearly two seconds behind Kopp early, then began cutting into the gap once he moved into second. As the leaders worked through lapped traffic, Daniels closed in on Kopp’s rear wheel in the final laps.
Kopp had taken the white flag when third-place runner Trent Lowe crashed and his bike caught fire, bringing out a stoppage. By rule, the race was declared complete, giving Kopp the win. Daniels finished second, 0.150 seconds back, while Henry Wiles was elevated to third.
Kody Kopp slides into a turn at Daytona with defending champ Dallas Daniels (#1) close behind. He opened the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season with a Mission AFT SuperTwins double victory. Tim Lester photo
“I’ve dreamed of this since I was five years old,” Kopp says. “By no means is this how I wanted to win my first national though – I want to come back tomorrow night and prove it with an actual checkered flag.”
He got that chance at Daytona II, where the Mission Triple Challenge format featured three Main Events to decide the overall winner.
In the first 10-lap Main, Davis Fisher took the win ahead of Daniels. Kopp worked forward late, passing Brandon Robinson on the final lap to finish fifth.
Kopp took control in Main Event 2. Starting from Row 2, he moved past Daniels, Briar Bauman and Fisher in the opening laps, then escaped at the front. Trent Lowe followed him through the field and finished second, just under a second back.
The final 20-lap Main decided the night. Kopp led early, was briefly passed by Fisher and Lowe, then regrouped and re-took the lead with 11 laps remaining. He crossed the line 1.195 seconds clear.
Kopp’s 5-1-1 results gave him the overall win ahead of Daniels and Fisher.
“I knew what I had to do, and I know what I’m capable of,” Kopp says.
Following Daytona, Kopp went onto to land two second place finishes, at Atlanta and Ventura, California, respectively, and as of press time leads the championship with 84 points. ■
Kody Kopp celebrates at Daytona after opening the 2026 season with two Mission AFT SuperTwins wins and a lead in the championship standings. Kristen Lassen photo
NEWS EVENTS AND Rolling Into Texas
TOPEN HOUSE EVENTS BRING THE SEMI, VENDORS AND RIDERS TOGETHER
he Drag Specialties Dealer Open House Program made two Texas stops this spring, giving dealerships a high-energy way to connect with customers, vendor product specialists and the Drag Specialties team. The program is built to help dealers drive traffic, strengthen partnerships and create a hands-on event experience around the products and brands customers are already asking about.
Along with event-day support, the Drag Specialties semi brought added draw with FatBook cover bikes and custom builds that showcase parts and accessories from participating supplier partners. Those bikes give riders a real-world look at V-Twin products in finished applications, helping dealerships turn customer interest into product conversations.
On March 20-21, Drag Specialties joined Central Texas Harley-Davidson in Round Rock, Texas, for the dealership’s fifth annual Texas Riders Rally. The two-day event brought together riders, vendors, live music, food and a stunt show, creating a rally atmosphere that kept the local riding community engaged throughout the weekend.
Drag Specialties sales rep Chad Zimmerman supported the Central Texas Harley-Davidson event, with vendor product specialists Greg Gestes from Custom Dynamics, Justin Masri from Saddlemen and Chance Seely and Jack Hutson from THRASHIN on hand to talk products with customers and dealership staff.
The next stop was April 16-18 at Texas Harley-Davidson in Bedford, Texas, where the Drag Specialties Open House was part of the dealership’s 10-year anniversary celebration. The three-day event kicked off with an off-site bike night Thursday at Truck Yard, followed by an on-site Friday bike night with hourly stunt shows from DFW Hooligans.
Saturday brought rain and lighter traffic, but the riders who came were ready to buy. Live bands played throughout the day, and the Globe of Death show ran between rain showers. Drag Specialties sales rep Mike Merritt worked the event with support from Ed Giesing, Jerred Petchney with the Drag semi-truck. Vendor support included Chase Weddle and Nick Stoltz from Legend Suspensions, Randy Acevedo from Progressive Suspension, Justin Masri from Saddlemen and Robert Martinez from Vance & Hines.
DRAG SPECIALTIES OPEN HOUSE
CENTRAL TEXAS HARLEY-DAVIDSON, ROUND ROCK, TEXAS
MARCH 20-21 Chad Zimmerman photos
Left: From left: Jack Hutson and Chance Seely from THRASHIN Supply Co., Justin Masri from Saddlemen, Drag rep Chad Zimmerman, and Greg Gestes from Custom Dynamics.
OE Quality, High-Performance
Black Vinyl or Stainless-Steel Braided cables — including extended lengths.
...continued from page 13
DRAG SPECIALTIES OPEN HOUSE
The Globe of Death added a bold visual centerpiece to Texas Harley-Davidson’s anniversary event as riders filled the dealership grounds for the Open House.
The Drag Specialties Open House at Texas Harley-Davidson drew plenty of bikes and riders, giving customers a full event experience outside the dealership.
Designed by
Power Design for American Muscle
ESPECIALLY FOR V-TWIN
NEWS EVENTS AND
...continued from page 15 GO AHEAD
Music, bikes and dealership activity came together at Texas Harley-Davidson’s Open House, giving customers plenty to take in throughout the event.
Elevate the V-Twin experience with the ultimate blend of design and performance that is part of the new SBS 7xxx disc series –Designed by Kodlin USA.
Aesthetic design
Enhanced Braking Power
Durable Coloring Technique
Low weight with Great Braking Performance
Texas Harley-Davidson put out a massive spread for its 10th Anniversary event, which included two briskets and a pork shoulder smoked by Drag rep Mike Merritt.
EVENT SEASON - MARCH - OCTOBER
EXCLUSIVE DEALER OPPORTUNITY INCLUDES:
Drag Specialties Semi Dis play
Custom built motorcycles and displays featuring the latest products from top suppliers. Draw foot traffic, excite customers.
On-Site Drag Specialties Team
Expert staff and sales reps promoting and selling your products.
Event Day Staff T-Shirts
Supplied by Drag Specialties and featuring participating suppliers—create a professional, unified look for your team.
Comprehensive Marketing Packet
Signage, graphics, social media assets, and promotional tools to drive traffic and attendance.
Supplier Literature & Materials
Provide educational resources to inform and engage your customers.
Event Promotion
Advertised on DragSpecialties.com, social media channels, and multiple ads in Drag Magazine.
Supplier Participation
Invite participating suppliers (listed below) to join your event and enhance the customer experience.
PROGRAM QUALIFICATIONS:
• $20,000 Buy-In of Participating Suppliers’ products within 45 days of Open House date. Backorders allowed. NO RETURNS . Normal terms apply.
• Minimum $500 order of at least (10) of the Participating Suppliers’ products.
GILLIM TAKES CONTROL
INDIAN FINDS EARLY KING OF THE BAGGERS PACE
The opening two rounds of the 2026 Mission King of the Baggers season delivered no shortage of action, with Daytona setting the tone before momentum swung hard at Road Atlanta.
At Daytona International Speedway in early March, qualifying saw Troy Herfoss lead the way on the J&P Cycles/Motul/ Vance & Hines Factory Indian Challenger with a 1:50.034 lap. Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory teammates Bradley Smith and Kyle Wyman followed, with Indian teammates Hayden Gillim and Rocco Landers close behind.
The weekend opened with the two-lap Mission King of the Baggers Challenge, where Gillim jumped to the front immediately. He led teammate Landers through Turn 1 and
never looked back, securing the win ahead of Landers, with James Rispoli finishing third. Herfoss crashed in the opening corner, while Wyman sat out after a qualifying incident.
Next, Race 1 belonged to Gillim. The Kentuckian broke clear early and never relinquished control, winning by more than eight seconds for his first Daytona victory and ending Kyle Wyman’s five-race win streak at the track. Herfoss followed in second, with Wyman finishing third after an early mistake.
“Man, that was something special,” Gillim says. “I had no idea I was by myself. So, the whole time I’m pushing, just waiting for those guys to come by me.”
Race 2 added another twist. Gillim again showed dominant pace and built a lead, but a late mechanical issue dropped
Photos by Brian J. Nelson
Indian Motorcycle rider Hayden Gillim’s Daytona win gave the team a high-profile result on one of motorcycle racing’s biggest stages.
2025 MISSION KING OF THE BAGGERS
him down the order. That opened the door for Herfoss, who held off a tight group to take his first Daytona win. Landers rebounded from a Race 1 DNF to finish second, with Wyman crossing close behind.
“It’s a big honor to get a race win at Daytona,” Herfoss says. “Big, big props to Hayden… he had the race sewn up.”
From Daytona, the series moved to Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in April, where Gillim carried that pace into a dominant weekend.
He secured pole with a new lap record of 1:27.669, just .115 of a second off the Supersport benchmark, then carried that pace through the rest of the weekend. Gillim won the Challenge, Saturday’s Race 1 and Sunday’s Race 2, while also setting a new race lap record at 1:27.959.
“It was an amazing weekend. One of the very few times that I’ve led every session. It’s maybe happened once or twice in my career,” Gillim says. “To be able to come here and do what the three of us did is just really awesome.”
Behind him, teammates Rocco Landers and Troy Herfoss completed an all-Indian podium, with Bradley Smith fourth and Tyler O’Hara fifth.
Through Daytona and Road Atlanta, Gillim has emerged as the early rider to watch, while the Indian Challenger program has opened the season with clear momentum. The King of the Baggers series heads to Barber Motorsport Park May 1517 for the next rounds of high-flying V-Twin action. ■
At Road Atlanta, Hayden Gillim (#69) leads Tyler O’Hara (#29), Troy Herfoss (#17) and Rocco Landers (#97). Gillim swept the weekend with wins in the Challenge, Saturday’s Race 1 and Sunday’s Race 2.
BEYOND THE PRICE TAG
TRAINING THAT HELPS DEALERS SELL VALUE
Dealership sales conversations often start with price and specs. That can close a sale, but it can also leave customers with products that do not truly fit their needs. The bigger risk is trading long-term relationships for short-term wins.
Today’s buyers sometimes know as much as, or more than, salespeople about product specs and pricing. That is true across retail. But in-store shoppers want more than a list of features. They want solutions. They want products that improve their moto lifestyle.
That is the idea behind the LeMans Growth Academy. The training platform helps salespeople move beyond selling features and toward selling product value. The goal is better customer connections and more confident salespeople who can sell the experience, not just the helmet, exhaust pipe or tire.
Take helmets. A rider who walks into your dealership looking for a helmet might already have a budget in mind, along with preferences for style and helmet type. That rider also has questions that go beyond, “Can I try this on?” They could have bought online, but they came to your store for expertise.
“Helmet shopping is a good example. What do salespeople need to know to have an educated conversation with a customer about helmets?” says Paul Devine, Vice President of
LeMans Growth Academy training helps dealership employees build confidence and product understanding, equipping them to guide customers toward solutions instead of just selling specs.
Sales and Marketing for LeMans Corporation. “Can they talk accurately and confidently about why a handmade Arai helmet costs what it does? This is especially important when considering your new parts department salesperson might have been stocking shelves at Walmart last week. It’s not just about price.”
That gap between product knowledge and customer guidance is where better training can make a difference. Suppliers can build training that focuses less on features and more on solving customer problems. When training emphasizes solutions, salespeople are better equipped to keep the conversation from becoming all about price.
That is when value becomes the real selling point. As Devine puts it, value is not one-size-fits-all. Some customers focus on price. Others are willing to spend more for quality, craftsmanship or features that matter to them.
“Value can be defined as utility divided by price,” says Kurt Kaufmann, CEO of the company that helped LeMans create its Growth Academy. “Low cost alone is not really the context here. People value things based on what utility they derive from them. If I don’t ride my motorcycle at night, the best headlight in the world will have no value to me at any price.”
On the sales floor, Kaufmann says that discussion of value changes selling into what he calls “solutioning.” Providing
solutions instead of products, and having conversations around value instead of price, requires a different kind of sales training. LeMans Growth Academy is the tool vendors use to provide that training to Drag Specialties reps and dealership sales teams.
TRAINING IN PRACTICE
“The videos and training are priceless, allowing veteran employees to brush up and new employees to learn and absorb,” says Scott Mundell, parts and accessories manager at Fay Myers Motorcycle World outside of Denver. “What’s really good is when an employee takes a test after the training and gets more wrong than they should, and you get the team talking and helping each other out.”
LEMANS GROWTH ACADEMY
Drag Specialties suppliers that choose to participate create and post their own training materials in the LeMans Growth Academy platform. Dealer sales teams and Drag Specialties sales reps can then take the training courses when it fits their schedules.
Jesse Barnes spends roughly an hour per week on the Growth Academy training courses. “I’ve acquired knowledge about products that I wasn’t even aware that I didn’t know about, and I’ve been able to use this in conversations with customers,” says the salesman from Pro Motorsports in West Burlington, Iowa. “To the suppliers creating these courses, they teach me how to present [their] products to customers. They provide insights and knowledge that can’t be obtained anywhere else.” This information helps salespeople speak with confidence and become a trusted resource for customers, he adds.
Devine says he used to tell his sales reps, “Hey, company X is hosting a webinar later this week. I would have sales reps join on their mobile phones in their car or from their home office,” he says. “Probably about 30 percent of the participants were actually consuming the data and 70 percent were distracted because they were busy.”
Those reps now attend far fewer webinars because the same content can now live on the Growth Academy platform for anytime access. “You log in and learn about it when you have time,” he says. “You’re early for a dealer visit, hop on LeMans Growth Academy.”
It is the same for dealers, who no longer need to rely on scheduled webinars, or the occasional in-person visit from a vendor.
LONG TERM SOLUTIONS
“Several of our participating suppliers are already winning with their training,” says Kaufmann. “They are communicating the value of problem-solving products at competitive prices. Others are learning that they’ve had the same offering and the same positioning for 30 years, and they need to be set up for this next chapter of powersports. This program is helping folks recognize that there’s an opportunity for evolution in the way that they’re positioning themselves in stores.”
When you solve a customer’s problems, you create a relationship that lasts. “One of the ways we can get more people riding motorcycles is to improve the education at the store level,” says Devine. “Education is the core philosophy behind it. It’s about creating an experience where customers want to go in the dealership.” ■
With on-demand access, LeMans Growth Academy training fits into the workday, helping employees strengthen product knowledge and deliver more informed, value-driven sales conversations.
Hands-on product learning through LeMans Growth Academy helps dealership staff connect training to real-world scenarios, improving how they guide customers through gear decisions.
RACE-BRED BAGGER PARTS
There used to be a disconnect between what V-Twin riders saw on the racetrack and their own motorcycles. These days, that line between race bike and Performance Bagger has blurred, thanks in part to Saddlemen. The company brings that “win on Sunday, sell on Monday” mentality to its line of carbon fiber components and other Performance Bagger parts.
The carbon fiber line can be traced back to Saddlemen’s first foray into Bagger racing. “Back in 2020, when MotoAmerica invited us to participate in the very first King of the Baggers Invitational at Laguna Seca, racing parts for Harley-Davidson Road Glides just did not exist!” explains Saddlemen’s Tom Monroe. “The popularity of that first race, and the series that followed the next year, meant that Saddlemen needed to get creative and build our own race bikes.”
The creativity was certainly necessary, but so was the equipment to manufacture the designs. Saddlemen CEO David Echert believed in the potential of the emerging Performance Bagger scene so much that he bought the necessary equipment, hired composites experts and created the Saddlemen Performance Carbon Fiber Department.
“We needed to knock a lot of weight off of our race bikes, and there’s no better way than by replacing components with strong, lightweight carbon fiber,” Monroe notes. “From the fairings and belly pans to the saddlebags and fenders, Saddlemen makes it all in-house.”
The risk has paid off for Saddlemen. Consumer demand for the carbon fiber products has been huge, and Monroe says it took until this past year to finally catch up to demand. Now, there’s a full line of products available for Harley-Davidson models, like the Dyna, FXR, Road Glide, Softail and Street Glide.
And, while the carbon fiber products are a common sight on the racetrack, it’s street riders who have really been clamoring for them. The carbon fiber front and rear fenders, dash panel and side covers save weight over stock, but they also look good, lending a sleek, performance aesthetic to a V-Twin.
Saddlemen’s Step-Up seat grew out of stunt riding, while the company’s carbon fiber fenders bring track-born style to the street.
Team Saddlemen’s race bikes showcase the company’s in-house carbon fiber parts, including saddlebags built for the Performance Bagger scene.
Photos courtesy of Saddlemen
Team Saddlemen kicked off the 2026 racing season at Daytona International Speedway, competing in the King of the Baggers on highly modified Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special motorcycles. Plus, the team entered four bikes in the Super Hooligans class, fielding three Harley-Davidson Pan Americas as well as a custom race bike. Called the Saddlemen FXR-R, the air-cooled, M8-powered 1991 Harley-Davidson FXR reached 180mph on Daytona’s high banks.
The Super Hooligans race literally could not have gone better for Saddlemen. Team riders James Rispoli, Cory West and Jake Lewis swept the podium on their Pan Americas, while Travis Wyman brought home fourth on the FXR-R.
As Monroe sums it up, “I guess you could say there’s a very competitive spirit running through Saddlemen.”
The race at Daytona provided quite a show for all the fans in attendance. And, Monroe says, it was nice to see how many of those fans are V-Twin riders themselves. “With the growth of the Performance Bagger market, has also come increased interest in Harley-Davidson roadracing,” he says. “Harley riders now fill the parking lots at MotoAmerica King of the Baggers events, which is a beautiful thing to see in what was formerly sportbike territory.”
All those Harley riders got to see the Saddlemen carbon fiber parts in action, and since those same products are all available through Drag Specialties, it’s easy for them to walk into their local dealership and give their street bike the same look.
While the carbon fiber line got its start on the racetrack, the Step-Up seat came from a different kind of competition. “Our Step-Up seat was born out of the stunting movement,
and it redefined how a seat could help with aggressive riding, as it was quickly adopted by most major stunt teams,” Monroe says.
The performance of the Step-Up is coupled with extreme comfort, which comes from Saddlemen’s GelCore technology. The Step-Up seat is available for all Harley Bagger models, with a range of stitch patterns and stitch colors available. Saddlemen even offers the Step-Up in Extended Reach, which gives taller riders more room.
After finding success in the North American racing scene, Team Saddlemen is taking its program global. In March, the team participated in the inaugural FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup Championship, which was held in conjunction with MotoGP at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. The international field competes on spec motorcycles built with many Saddlemen carbon fiber parts, as well as another product found in the pages of the FatBook: the Saddlemen Race Seat.
The inaugural race was a success, with Team Saddlemen rider Jake Lewis bringing home second place. There was a lot to celebrate off the track, too, with enthusiastic fans showing up for autographed posters and photos. Now, the series heads to Italy’s Mugello Circuit for round two.
And, along the way, Monroe is excited that Saddlemen is part of it all. “We don’t see the Performance Bagger trend slowing down anytime soon,” he says. “These are real riders, not trailer queens, and it’s important that they go fast, handle well and do it all comfortably.” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep about Saddlemen’s Performance Bagger parts and find it all in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
The Saddlemen Race Crew, from left: Travis Wyman, David Melancon, Alex Torres, David Echert, Amy Echert, Mattie Virgil, Eric Vallardo, Jake Lewis, Ricky Castro, Kris Echert, Ryan Cost, Buddy Colley, Fury, Cory West, John Sanders, Patricia Fernandez-West, Taylor Dawson, and Jake Johnson.
This custom 2017 Harley-Davidson Road King is the kind of beauty that’s sure to turn heads wherever it rolls. The best part? All that style and beauty is within easy reach of anyone with an idea and the FatBook, reports Joe Houpt at Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson in metro Milwaukee.
For Houpt, there’s nothing like taking a nice — or even a little rough — pre-owned Bagger and freshening it up with the huge range of products in the FatBook. In fact, Houpt and the Suburban crew have done it countless times. The impressive part is that no matter how many times they’ve done it, it comes out different every time.
It’s been about a dozen years since Drag Specialties teamed with Suburban on used-bike customs, with Tom Motzko and former rep Rob Bluma helping shape the collaboration.
“We’re fortunate to have a selection of used bikes at Suburban so it’s never a problem to find a bike,” says Houpt. “When we’re done, we end up with a bike that looks good and emphasizes 10 to 15 vendors. And it’s cool because we get to use the newest parts, we get to see how they fit and we get to give the vendors feedback.”
When it came time to transform that 2017 from Plain Jane to Sexy Sadie, the Suburban builders naturally dove into the FatBook for parts and inspiration. In this case, before it
became a rolling billboard for those stellar brands, the Road King was pretty rough. “The bike had 48,000 miles and the paint was faded out,” Houpt says.
Just check out that accompanying parts lists for this build, and you’ll see all the components used. Arlen Ness products figure prominently here, starting with their new chrome Flat Line wheels, with chrome hub kits. The rubber that’ll hit the road are the new Dunlop AE2s, front and rear. The front end also gets a taste of Ness thanks to the dual-disc Hot-Legs Deep Cut chrome fork legs and matching boot covers.
Left: Dunlop AE2 rubber, Arlen Ness chrome wheels and Spider rotors help set the tone for this Road King. Middle: The cockpit features THRASHIN Supply Mid-Bend handlebars, chrome pullback risers and a Memphis Shades Slim Solar windshield. Right: Vance & Hines 4-inch *(EMIS Code 4) Supersportchrome slip-on mufflers bring a clean performance touch to the Road King build.
From faded factory finish to full custom, this Road King highlights how Drag Specialties parts can reshape a pre-owned Bagger.
ROAD KING REVIVAL
The bike’s manners and road handling are addressed by Progressive Suspension 990 Series shocks, while a Drag Specialties Performance Predator 1-up seat with doublediamond stitching keeps the rider comfortable.
Houpt says he generally leaves the motors stock on projects like this because they’re already reliable. However, as with most Harley makeovers, there’s always room for more performance. Here that comes courtesy of a Vance & Hines *(EMIS Code 2)V02 Rogue air intake kit in chrome, *(EMIS Code 3)Fi 2000R PowrPro tuning module in black, and Vance & Hines
4-inch *(EMIS Code 4)Supersport Slip-on mufflers in chrome.
The King’s driveline benefits from a Barnett Scorpion hydraulic clutch, Barnett Scorpion Series clear/chrome derby cover, and THRASHIN Supply adjustable shift linkage. Houpt also pulled from the THRASHIN lineup to dial in the ergonomics with 6½-inch chrome pullback risers and MidBend 1-inch chrome handlebars. There’s a glorious touch of form and function down at the floorboards and footpegs thanks to the new parts in black from the Drag Specialties X Gilles collaboration.
Vance & Hines mufflers, Arlen Ness chrome accents and black Drag Specialties X Gilles floorboards help define this Road King’s custom stance.
Stopping power gets a boost in performance and looks from Ness Spider brake rotors in chrome and matching six-piston differential bore calipers, front and rear. That package is backed up by Magnum Shielding’s Sterling Chromite II Designer Series brake lines, front and rear, plus an ABS Black Pearl Designer Series mid-brake line kit.
Lighting is dominated by Custom Dynamics. The company’s popular Shark Demon 2 color-changing 7-inch headlight is front-and-center, installed using CD’s headlight adapter. There are also CD’s ProBEAM Bullet bezel rear LED turn signal inserts and smoke lenses, plus Drag Specialties’ bullet-style rear turn signal kit and handlebar switch housing.
Rolling into a bike night with this custom gets a little extra oomph, thanks to Custom Dynamics’ ProGLOW color-changing LED engine/ground effect kit. That extra visibility is joined by ProBEAM Fillerz saddlebag smoke LED lights, and a ProBEAM Low-Profile LED smoke taillight kit. You can see this bike coming, going and just sitting there looking stylish.
One notable change for this road warrior is the new paint that replaced that faded factory finish. Black and orange is always a crowd-pleaser, and a paint job like this feels right at home coming from a shop near Milwaukee. It was handled by Mike Smith of Shocks Auto Body.
Along with a Suburban Motors-customized 2023 Softail and cover bikes from the current FatBook and OldBook, this Road King is touring the country in the Drag Specialties big rig for 2026 on the Drag Open House Tour.
The Tour is designed to drive inspiration by showing dealers and their customers how any bike – new or pre-owned can be made more capable, more comfortable and more beautiful thanks to the artful application of proper aftermarket parts found in the FatBook
0201-2658
» Talk to your Drag rep to learn when the Open House Tour is near you. Hope to see you there! PART # DESCRIPTION
A Growing Lineup Built Around Performance Family Built, Race Driven
Founded in 1998, Lyndall Racing Brakes built its name on braking performance, then carried that momentum into a wider range of V-Twin components backed by family grit and racetrack development.
The company grew from an idea founder Paul Kittrell Jr. had while working for Porterfield Enterprise Inc., an automotive brake company in Costa Mesa, California. There, he began hand-cutting custom motorcycle brake pads for his AMA road racing buddies.
After learning how high-performance friction compounds were developed for automotive racing, Paul brought those materials to the motorcycle market where they quickly gained traction. With help from his parents, he launched Lyndall Racing Brakes LLC, introducing motorcycle brake compounds rooted in automotive race technology.
“There were some compounds that were working really well in the open wheel cars, so I took the car pad and put it on a surface grinder [and] ground it down to the correct thickness,” says Paul. “We started testing them, and that went really well.
“Howard Kelly, back in the day with Hot Bike, wrote the first article on those Twin-Cam pads. That article put us on the map, and all of the dealers started buying them. Simultaneously, Harley-Davidson went back-order on its pads, which was like a Cinderella Story for us.”
Paul credits his parents, who were also his business partners, with teaching him the fundamentals of running a small business. His mother served as CFO and handled the books, while his father, the company president, brought strong sales experience from the petroleum industry.
“My dad and I pounded the pavement every day, visiting five dealers a day,” Paul says. “At 65 years old and already retired, he would be at my door at 7am sharp with a hot cup of coffee and a smile ready to go to wherever we were going that day, whether it was San Diego or the Bay Area.
The company’s early years were modest. Paul says it took five years to gain distribution, and Lyndall operated out of a small Costa Mesa building with little more than a shelf of brake pads. He says the experience of building the business with his parents still means a great deal to him. “I’m so grateful for having that experience with my
Racing in Round 1 of King of the Baggers at Daytona, Max Flinders puts Lyndall Racing Brakes components to the test under hi gh-speed, real-world competition conditions.
Photos courtesy of Lyndall Racing Brakes
parents,” he says. “Working in a father-and-son business environment is a beautiful thing.”
Today Lyndall Racing Brakes works with various partners across the U.S. to produce its brake components, sprockets and wheels, utilizing a 10,000 square-foot facility near Austin, Texas, for designing, testing, warehousing and shipping.
That growth is reflected in a product lineup that includes fully floating, three-piece rotors and brake pads offered in three organic compounds to suit different riding styles.
Lyndall offers three brake pad compounds; each aimed at a different kind of rider. Z Plus is the clean-running option, built for customers who want to keep their whitewalls free of brake dust while still getting a claimed 10 percent more stopping power than OE Harley brakes. The compound also helps preserve the black or gold finish on Lyndall rotors.
From rotors to multiple pad compounds, Lyndall Racing Brakes offers a range of braking components designed to help dealers meet varying rider preferences and performance expectations.
For riders who push harder, Lyndall offers the carbon Kevlar Xtreme series. The company says it delivers 30 percent more stopping power than OE Harley brakes, making it the more aggressive choice for high-speed riding or stunting.
Gold Plus splits the difference, balancing stronger braking with long service life. Lyndall says it offers up to 20 percent more stopping power than OE Harley brakes. All Lyndall brake pads are backed by an 18,000-mile guarantee and a money-back guarantee.
Lyndall’s product range goes beyond rotors and pads. The company also builds American-made wheels, sprockets and related hardware. Its wheels are high-pressure forged from 6061-T6 aluminum for low weight and strength, while its sprockets are laser-cut from 7075-T6 aluminum, a material commonly used in aerospace applications to keep weight down without giving up durability.
That combination has carried into racing as well. Lyndall components are used in Hooligan and flat-track competition, and more recently the company has moved into Bagger racing, supplying products for some of the fastest Harley-Davidson baggers on the track.
Paul says Lyndall’s push to develop premium components led the company to the racetrack.
Lyndall Racing Brakes traces its roots back to 1998, when a small, family-run operation began building momentum through dealer relationships and racetrack-proven brake technology.
“Our designs are exposed to the rigorous environments of racing as a theater of validation for developing and proving our high performance street offerings.” ■
» To learn more about Lyndall product or to place an order, reach out to your Drag Specialties sales rep, and check out the FatBook, the OldBook and www.dragspecialties.com.
HProducts Designed by Riders, for Riders Dedicated to Development
arley-Davidson’s ultra-limited-edition Road Glide CVO RR is the Motor Company’s most exclusive model to date. To many, it’s a Harley masterpiece, but beauty – and bike fit – are in the eyes and hands of the beholder. With that in mind, the team at THRASHIN’ Supply wanted to tailor the company’s CVO RR handlebar position for more comfort and control.
“When you sit in the pocket of the seat, the bars are really wide, with a lot of pullback. I’m not used to that,” says
company owner Lance Coury, who long ago developed THRASHIN’s Mid Bend Bar to fit his preferences. With the CVO RR, the goal was to replace the stock handlebar with the Mid Bend Bar and bring it up and back with a set of custom risers.
THRASHIN’ already makes bar risers for Harleys in the USA, with 6-inch and 8-inch straight options and 6½-inch and 9½-inch pullback designs that fit the majority of models dating to the late 1980s. The CVO RR is unique, however, and required new components. Parts development is THRASHIN’s forte, but Lance and engineer Juan Arceo wanted an added challenge: Design and manufacture the risers for the CVO in just one week.
While the project at hand was for custom one-off risers built just for the CVO RR, the process shows what the team at THRASHIN’ puts into all of its parts development. The finished product became a fitting mount for the brand’s popular Mid Bend Bars, just one model in its large lineup of handlebars, parts and accessories.
All of THRASHIN’s parts are developed by riders, for riders, and made in the USA. Every THRASHIN’ component your customers can buy is conceived, designed and made by Lance and his team right here in America, and all those parts stem from the team’s own desire to improve their bikes.
For the limited-edition Harley, it wasn’t just a matter of making functional parts. It’s the CVO RR, after all, so they needed to look great. “The top plate on the RR is serialized and has the model name, so we want to retain that and we want to retain the stock cables and general appearance,” says Juan. “It’s gotta be OEM-plus.”
With no time to waste, the guys dove in. Once the stock controls, bars and risers were off, Lance saddled up with a set of Mid Bend Bars in hand to experiment with positioning. With a rough idea of where they wanted the bars — up about 2 inches and back an inch — Juan used THRASHIN’s 3D scanner to capture the basic outline of
Juan Arceo uses THRASHIN’s 3D scanner to capture the stock riser shape, giving the team a digital starting point for the one-off CVO RR project.
With the initial scan complete, Juan Arceo and Lance Coury refine the details, dialing in measurements that would guide the fit, function and finish.
the stock risers. The raw data came together quickly, but refining the features and measurements still took time.
The next day, Juan had CAD drawings ready to go, complete with all the necessary mounting provisions for the brake and clutch hoses and wiring harnesses. “I’m going to 3D print these so we can test them on the bike, but it’s a 27-hour print time,” says Juan. He started the print and let the machine run over the weekend.
On Monday, Lance and Juan had the printed parts ready for mockup, and Lance liked the layout. What the guys realized, though, was that the parts needed more refinement to match the fit and finish of the CVO’s design. “We’re going
Bars supported by one-of-one risers that his team turned around in just seven days.
“This development process is the same for all our parts,” says Juan, “but usually it takes months.” Instead, the guys poured on the gas and finished whole project in a week. “I’m in love,” says Lance. “It’s more comfortable, also a little more aggressive,” he says of the customized CVO RR. “This was such a rad exercise, and I’m so proud of the team.” ■
» Talk with your Drag rep about THRASHIN’s range of products, and learn more in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
to make them look sexier, thinner,” says Juan. The guys also integrated the RR’s serial number, the THRASHIN’ bolt logo and “Made in America.” Then it was off to the machinist with the final CAD files and 2D drawings.
Building the toolpaths and machining the risers took nearly two days, especially because the guys decided to go with a detailed finish that complements the intricate tooling marks on the CVO’s many machined parts. The end product was the true “OEM-plus” look that Lance and Juan had hoped.
Installed with a set of THRASHIN’s Solid Riser Bushings for maximum control, Lance settled in behind the Mid Bend
Lance Coury checks bar position on the bike, helping THRASHIN finetune the rise and pullback needed for improved comfort and control.
Above and Below: Designed, refined and machined in just seven days, the one-off risers and Mid Bend Bars reflect THRASHIN’s rider-driven approach to parts development.
Photos courtesy of THRASHIN
SEATS
Performance Meets Plush A Hybrid Touring Seat
At the same time, the Chariot still shows the hallmarks of the performance style that is at the heart of all Slyfox products, like its sleek styling and light weight. “The brand is built around performance and a good-performing product aesthetic,” Fox says. “The thought process behind the seat is to bring one to market that’s not only comfortable, but performance based, as well.”
The Chariot, like all Slyfox seats, is made in the USA by Drag Specialties seats. The 3/16inch ABS thermoformed seat base ensures a perfect fit on the bike. At the same time, the fully carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers provide a soft barrier to protect the paint. The automotive-grade vinyl is durable enough to stand up to both the elements and the more
“As a brand, we’re always listening and always watching. We’re always trying to be innovative.” Alex Fox, Slyfox founder
V-Twin riders who want performance often want comfort, too. With the new Chariot seat from Slyfox, there’s no need to compromise. This performance Touring seat offers the best of both worlds.
The Chariot seat is an easy bolt-on solution to a problem that Slyfox founder Alex Fox kept noticing as he talked with customers and friends. “I have a lot of friends in all demographics and ages, and they have their seat they ride on the daily and then another they put on when they ride with a passenger,” Fox explains. “We tried to make a seat you don’t want to take off. It’s just a great all-around seat.” Fox thinks of the Chariot seat as a hybrid between a performance seat and a Touring seat. The extra foam, made from a flexible urethane, provides enough cushioning on a long ride for both the driver and passenger. Plus, the tall driver support means the lower back gets a break.
aggressive riding style that Slyfox’s performance-minded customer base prefers.
The Chariot was launched at Louisville NVP earlier this year, and, for Fox, it’s a step in the evolution of the company. “Slyfox was built on style and performance and quality, and this seat plays into what we do and how we believe we’re going to move forward as a brand.”
Part of that forward movement comes from listening to what customers want. The Chariot came from the need for riders to have a seat that is capable of looking good, performing well and providing enough comfort for Touring. “As a brand, we’re always listening and always watching. We’re always trying to be innovative,” Fox says. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about the new Chariot performance Touring seat from Slyfox. Find it in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Installed, the Slyfox Chariot seat brings together sleek styling, long-mile comfort and a supportive riding position, making it a strong fit for performance-minded Touring customers.
Slyfox’s Chariot seat pairs sleek performance styling with extra urethane foam, tall driver support and durable automotive-grade vinyl for riders who want comfort built into their daily setup.
Celebrating 80 Years of a Family Business From Toolbox to Trade Icon
When he was just 24 years old, Will Kibblewhite found a business proposal inside his toolbox. It was from his dad, offering to sell his valvetrain manufacturing company, Precision Machining Inc., to him.
Will jumped at the opportunity, and although he had no idea at the time how many challenges he would have to navigate along the way, he has no regrets about the decision. After 80 years and an addition to the name, Kibblewhite Precision Machining Inc. has become an icon in the powersports industry.
The elder Kibblewhite, James, started Precision Machining Inc. in 1936. The New Zealand native immigrated to the United States, looking for better opportunities. After spending some time in New York, he headed to California, where the company is still based today.
James had a knack for building motors, and he had a love for drag racing, where he could show off his skills as both a racer and a builder. Over the years, his reputation reached all the way to Japan, and he was hired to build speedway engines for Kojis International.
By the 1980s, James wasn’t home a lot, and he was spending as much as six months at a time in Japan. That left Will, who was in high school at the time, to keep things running at Precision Machining Inc., answering the phone, fulfilling orders and taking care of other tasks.
It was a revelation for Will. “I’m talking to customers and I realized I had the answers,” he says. “That became really grounding and powerful for me. I didn’t know what I already knew! As time went on, my dad was so overwhelmed with what he had going in Japan, he left a proposal in my toolbox.”
That was in 1989, and Will added the family name to the business, turning it into Kibblewhite Precision Machining Inc. (KPMI). Before he would turn that name into one recognized across every facet of the powersports industry, though, there were some hard lessons to be learned.
“My dad was this bigger than life figure, and I wanted to do everything just like him,” Will recalls. “All of these years working with my dad and watching everything he did, I tried to do everything just like him. When I took the business over, it wasn’t working. I was struggling and started
Photos courtesy of KPMI
James Kibblewhite prepares his Honda 450 road racer at PM Cams headquarters in San Bruno, California.
In 1975, 11-year-old Will Kibblewhite shows off the Yamaha JT1-60 he and his father brought back to life after buying it from D&D Cycles in Half Moon Bay, California.
to hate it. I wasn’t doing things the way I wanted to do them, and I wasn’t exploring possibilities in the business that I wanted to explore.”
And, so, Will did branch out and start exploring. He tried his hand at automotive products, but he eventually realized that what he needed was more business savvy. Will was a talented engineer, but, he says, “The accountant told me I’d have the nicest shop in the world when I went out of business!”
Will went to school for accounting and business management, and when he finished, he had a new vision for KPMI. Finally, he had the knowledge he needed to run the business his way. One of the changes was an expansion to the custom parts division. Manufacturing custom valvetrain parts for clients was a gamechanger in the rise of the company, leading to a lot of long-lasting partnerships with OEMs and performance brands like Cannondale, Jim Feuling, Mercury, S&S Cycle, and Volvo.
That popularity meant more lessons about running a business, and Will’s management acumen was put to the test. “All of a sudden, your inventory is growing, you’re hiring employees, you’re buying equipment, and you really have to understand that,” he says.
Getting through each challenge came down to one thing – Will’s love for his work and the industry. He says, “It has to be in your heart. If it is, then somehow, you make it work, and you don’t ever back off.”
And, considering KPMI now has more than 3,000 items in stock and a worldwide customer base, it’s safe to say Will has never backed off. KPMI makes valve springs, guides, seat bushings and more for new and old bikes, and Will says the classics have had a remarkable staying power. Shovelhead parts are a top seller for KPMI, but Ironhead Sportsters are popular with builders, too.
One of the keys to KPMI’s longevity has been listening to customers. While Will chose to run the business differently than his dad did, customer service is one of the family principles that got passed down. “Placing an order comes easy, but few people want to listen to complaints or people critiquing the product,” Will says. “I try to do that, too, because that’s what got me to where I am: listening to the customer.”
After 80 years in the industry, KPMI is a second-generation business that has turned into a powersports powerhouse. There’s a lot of history to celebrate, but for someone like Will, he’s also looking to the future, because he’s never backed off and he’s not going to anytime soon. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about KPMI’s rich legacy and wide range of valvetrain products. Find it all in the FatBook, the OldBook and www.dragspecialties.com.
Left: Taken in the early 2000s in Cincinnati, this photos shows three generations of the Kibblewhite family. From left: James; Sebastian, who now works for KPMI and Will.
Top: James Kibblewhite on October 26th, 1958, at the Half Moon Bay Dragstrip setting a record of 105.75mph in the Modified Hot Rod – 1st Class on a 500cc Norton Twin.
Will Kibblewhite works on a 96-inch Shovelhead build in the early ’90s, using cutaway rocker boxes and dial indicators to degree the cam and check valve movement.
American-Made Evolution A V-Twin Charging System Legacy
Made in USA.” It’s a simple statement carrying deeper meaning for many riders. In the motorcycle world, that idea has long been tied to craftsmanship, pride and the kind of hands-on knowhow that helped shape the American V-Twin scene.
That mindset is part of the story behind Cycle Electric Inc.
In Vandalia, Ohio, Karl Fahringer was involved in building Harley’s 65A generators for motorcycle charging systems. When Harley moved on from that technology, the production line was discontinued. Karl did not see the end of the work. He saw an opportunity.
Just because Harley discontinued the 65A generators did not mean riders stopped needing them. They were used from 1965 through 1981, and they had a reputation for reliability issues. From faulty generation to electrical current problems, there was plenty of room for improvement. Karl set out to deliver that.
That opportunity, paired with Karl’s knowhow and dedication to American-made quality, sparked the founding of Cycle Electric in Brookville, Ohio, a company that built its name on charging systems and components for American V-Twins.
Karl’s generators quickly proved themselves on customers’ bikes and helped define what Cycle Electric still stands for today; quality first and customer service close behind.
Nick Fahringer, Engineer for Cycle Electric and Karl’s son, grew up shaped by this quality-first mindset. “Our reputation for reliable products comes from our refusal to accept a mechanical failure within our control,” says Nick. “I learned this ethic at an early age from my father, Karl, while working on dirtbikes together, preparing for the next enduro.”
As bikes evolved, so did Cycle Electric’s product line. Heading into the ’90s, Karl developed generators with built-in regulators, a product that remains a Cycle Electric staple. These addressed many common rider pain points by regulating not just amperage, but heat. The ability to keep generator temperatures in the safe zone was new to the market and made for a more robust package for OEM Harley and chopper riders.
Innovation continued with rectifying regulators, which helped the company stay ahead of newer technology while also bringing useful retrofit solutions to older bikes. Harley’s shift from generators to alternators marked a major change in charging-system design, and
Far Left: Karl Fahringer (left) at the work bench explaining generator assembly as Nick Fahringer (right) stands at attention.
Left: Shelf of stators fully assembled and awaiting hand application of epoxy to seal the lead splices and lock the leads into place.
over time alternator-based systems became standard across the lineup.
That AC technology was still early in its development on Harley motorcycles and often saw heat-related premature failure. Karl’s rectifying regulator technology helped solve that, and still does. Instead of dumping current to ground and creating constant maximum heat, Cycle Electric rec-
For early XL models, Cycle Electric’s Variable Amperage Generator with built-in regulator offers riders a compact charging-system upgrade built around the company’s generator knowhow.
tifying regulators block current to control voltage, which means lower temperatures, less drag and more efficiency.
The next major step from Harley was fuel injection. The earliest fuel-injected bikes hit the market in the mid-tolate ’90s and required more from the charging system. Harley developed single-phase charging systems and kept boosting output to keep up, but that increased stress and heat, which reduced stator life and created unreliable, inconsistent current.
Karl developed a three-phase system that spreads electrical load across more poles and coils, reducing heat, improving durability and producing a smoother charge. This development also led to production of Cycle Electric’s own stators, giving the company a complete chargingsystem offering. Looking for a stator that met his quality standards, Karl opted to invest in his own equipment and has been producing them in-house ever since.
Karl is a man who lets his work speak for him. When asked what message he wanted to give customers, he said, “May the road you choose to ride bring you happiness.”
Cycle Electric’s focus on innovation and American-made quality helped build a strong reputation. Drag Specialties has offered Cycle Electric components since the ’90s with confidence that dealers will appreciate the quality and service behind the brand.
From individual components to complete charging kits, Cycle Electric offers dealers a range of charging-system solutions for American V-Twins. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details or check them out in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Cycle Electric offers complete charging-system solutions, including a three-phase charging kit and rectifying regulator built with the American-made quality behind the brand’s reputation.
Built to Tour, Ready to Rip
PRODUCTS FOR PERFORMANCE BAGGERS AND TOURING BIKES
The Performance Bagger and Touring segments are hot, and your customers are showing it every time they come in looking for the next upgrade.
You can see it in the way the market keeps evolving. Riders still want the comfort, storage and longhaul ease that make Touring bikes such a strong category, but more and more of them also want sharper handling, stronger braking, better sound, more power and a more aggressive stance.
That overlap is exactly why the Performance Bagger scene keeps building momentum. What started as a niche has become one of the most talked-about corners of the V-Twin world, fueled by custom builds, Bagger Racing League influence and a steady stream of parts that let riders tailor their bikes for everything from hard-charging weekend rides to cross-country miles.
That creates real opportunity on the dealership floor. Today’s Performance Bagger and Touring customers are not
just replacing worn parts. They are upgrading tires, seats, LED lighting, grips, gauges, and charging systems. They are also stepping it up with performance parts like exhausts, big bore kits, clutch components, race controls, and suspension upgrades. Add in helmets, riding gear, audio and luggage, and it is clear just how broad this category has become.
That is where Drag Specialties and the FatBook come in. Drag is the one-stop shop for the Performance Bagger and Touring market, with the parts and accessories that dealers need from the brands that riders already know and trust. Whether your customers are building a clean daily rider, a mile-eating Touring bike or a BRL-inspired Bagger, Drag Specialties has the range to help you put the right package together.
On the pages that follow, you’ll find a select mix of products aimed at one of the strongest segments in the V-Twin market. Take a look, then talk to your Drag rep for the details.
Avon Grips’ Air Cushion grips have been a mainstay within the product line for years. Its design features air pockets to isolate vibration from a Touring rider’s hands, minimizing fatigue for long road trips or during high rpm stints.
With their snakeskin-effect tread, Avon Cobra Chrome tires certainly stand out. And with a large tire footprint, your customers can expect better traction and shorter stopping distances, even in the wet.
Barnett’s Lock-up Spring Conversion Kit for Milwaukee-Eight engines uses a billet aluminum pressure plate and coil springs to boost clutch feel, clamping force and durability for stock or highoutput builds.
Avon Grips
Avon Tyres
Barnett
Left and above: Two bikes, same idea. Take a Bagger and bump up the performance, improve handling and braking and give it and aggressive stance. Above: The Tucker Speed team did that with its build-off winning race build at the Milwaukee NVP. Left: And the Suburban Motors H-D crew took a 2022 Harley-Davidson FLTRXS Road Glide Special and gave it a major upgrade. All of this is possible for your customers thanks to the FatBook.
BDL
BDL’s EVO-16B-2C and EVO-16B-2B kits bring a one-piece motorplate design to 2017-current Touring models, helping higher-horsepower bikes shed weight and reduce rotating mass versus a wet primary drive.
Cycle Electric Inc.
For 2010 CVO and 2011-up FLH/FLT Twin Cam models, Cycle Electric’s 90-series charging systems increase low-speed output and provide up to 56 amps at cruising for accessory-hungry bikes.
Ciro
Ciro’s GOAT-E light for late-model Street Glides adds over 700 lumens of white LED output, integrated amber turn signals, and is available in black or chrome finishes.
DP Brakes
hazard support, built-in protection, and reliable performance overall.
From hard braking zones to repeated laps, Bagger Racing League riders rely on DP Brakes’ brake pads and clutch kits for strong stopping power, solid clutch performance and dependable control on track.
Drag Specialties Seats
Drag Specialties Seats’ Freedom Touring seat features 5¾-inch driver support, contoured comfort, narrow-front leg clearance and backrest compatibility, giving Touring riders a U.S.-made upgrade with included hardware and stitch-color options.
Drag Specialties x Gilles
Drag Specialties has partnered with noted Luxembourg company Gilles Tooling to create a meticulously machined range of floorboards, footpegs, a shift lever, brake lever, and mirrors, bringing premium European design to the American V-Twin market.
Drag Specialties Branded
Drag Specialties Oil Change Kits include the right oil volume, filter, O-ring and funnel in one box, making Harley-Davidson oil changes simpler for dealers, techs and DIY riders alike.
EBC
EBC Vee Pads are built for the torque and weight of V-Twin tourers and baggers, delivering confident bite, modulation and fade-resistant stopping power mile after mile, with durability and control for the open road.
Feuling
Feuling’s Reaper camchest kits for MilwaukeeEights are a direct bolt-in upgrade with matched components that work together for dependable performance and cooler running engine and oil temperatures.
KB Performance Pistons
KB Performance Pistons celebrates 100 years with durable piston options for Knucklehead and modern Milwaukee-Eight models, available in numerous applications and compression ratios in cast hypereutectic and forged alloys.
Designed to complement Flare® Windshields, Klock Werks Flare® Hand Guards help deflect wind, rain and road debris away from the rider’s hands while adding custom style.
GBrakes
GBrakes brake pads deliver strong, consistent stopping power with NRS technology, using a mechanical bond that eliminates pad separation and ensures superior durability, heat resistance, and long-term braking reliability.
Kibblewhite
KPMI is proud to offer racing spring kits with titanium retainers and springs manufactured by PSI with 0.640˝ lift capability, highperformance stainless and Inconel valve kits, and manganese bronze guide kits.
KOSO
The HD-03X TFT gauge set for 2014-2023 HarleyDavidson Baggers and Trikes offers full control of the dashboard directly from a smartphone with the K-Link app. Change the interface of the gauges between 16 unique color combinations (digital or analog style).
ICON
ICON knows weather can be unpredictable. That’s why the PDX Collection is fully armored, waterproof and built to keep riders protected, comfortable and focused with taped Hycor construction, D3O impact protection and adaptable ventilation.
KICKER
KICKER offers Touring bike audio upgrades with KPX Compact Amplifiers and KMXL HornLoaded Speakers, combining weather-resistant construction, strong output and multiple size and power options for riders chasing bigger sound.
LePera
Engineered for endurance, LePera’s premium race inspired Tailwhip seat delivers superior grip, support, and all-day comfort. Stay locked in through every corner and straightaway.
Klock Werks
LIQUI MOLY
LIQUI MOLY Motorbike Speed Additive helps support easier starts, smoother running and sharper throttle response in 2-stroke and 4-stroke gasoline engines, giving riders a simple way to maintain performance consistently.
Lyndall Brakes
Lyndall Brakes gives Bagger riders options, from organic brake pads with quieter, cleaner stopping to lightweight rotors for 2014-up Harley Touring models, including a CNCmachined 320mm option for 2024-up bikes.
Memphis Shades
Designed for 2024-26 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and Street Glide models, the Memphis Shades Spoiler Windshield uses engineered airflow to boost comfort, stability and performance while adding aggressive style.
Metzeler
Magnum Shielding
The Ghost Riser delivers aggressive performance with a clean, modern style. CNC-machined from 6061 aluminum, available in 8-inch and 10-inch heights with 1½ inches pullback for dialed-in control and comfort.
Engineered to meet the performance demands of modern V-Twins, the Metzeler Cruisetec delivers sport-touring-inspired handling, confident all-weather grip, and long-lasting mileage – without sacrificing the smooth, comfortable ride cruiser riders expect.
Müller Motorcycle
The Power Clutch 2.0 cuts clutch effort by up to 45 percent and brings a sharper, more precise engagement point closer to the lever. Engineered for Milwaukee-Eight models, it’s perfect for performance Baggers and longdistance touring.
Nelson-Rigg
Nelson-Rigg’s Route 1 Cruiser Luggage Collection includes the Rover Pet Carrier, the perfect bag for when that “furry friend” wants to ride along in secure style for wherever the journey takes them.
Motion Pro
Built for ‘18-later Softails and ‘21-up Baggers, Motion Pro split cables use a durable junction box and 6061-T6 aluminum components to deliver cleaner fitment, adjustability and longterm reliability.
Progressive Suspension
Progressive Suspension’s 494 Series shocks combine a lightweight aluminum body, progressive-rate coil spring and adjustable damping features to help riders fine-tune comfort, control and load handling.
7/8-inch or 11/8-inch bars, opening up moto-style bar options for bagger racing, flat track and scrambler builds.
SBS
The all-new SBS x Kodlin 7,000 Series rotors are available in Ever Black thermochemical nitriding or stainless-steel finishes. Precision laser-cut detailing and optimized heat dissipation help deliver durability, consistent braking and premium V-Twin style.
Trask Performance
The Trask *(EMIS Code 3) Big Papi High Flow Air Cleaner features a high-flow, zero-loss filter that maximizes airflow and throttle response for Harley-Davidson M8 Touring and Softail models with dyno-proven performance.
S&S Cycle
S&S Cycle’s premium *(EMIS Code 1) 55mm CNCported blackmanifold for Milwaukee-Eight engines uses 5-axis machining and a textured finish to boost flow and fuel atomization, delivering consistent performance with stock or ported heads.
Saddlemen
Saddlemen’s Step-Up is the ultimate performance seat for your Bagger. The unique shape was designed with aggressive riding in mind, while the GelCore construction inside ensures maximum rider comfort.
THRASHIN Supply Company
THRASHIN’s Carbon Fiber 2024+ Touring Skid Plate helps protect the exposed water line and wiring between the frame and radiator on 2024+ Touring models. It’s constructed from real carbon fiber in Forged Carbon or Gloss Twill and features billet 6061 aluminum brackets in anodized black, red or gold.
Vance & Hines’ *(EMIS Code 3) Gaslighter 2-1 full system features a mid-length profile, 304 stainless steel construction and hand TIG welded header collector and muffler for clean style and lasting durability.
Z1R
Z1R’s Solaris 2.0 modular helmet now comes in Satin Blue, pairing standout color with DOT and ECE 22.06 ratings to give riders fresh style and trusted coverage on the road.
Slyfox
The Slyfox Chariot seat gives V-Twin riders a Touring-
DRAG SPECIALTIES DEALER PROFILE:
A Custom Shop Built on Trust
Chariots of Fire Customs: Troy, Missouri
Jan Knobbe built his first custom motorcycle at the age of 16, entered it into a show and won first place in the Chopper class.
Now, four decades later, he and his wife Reine own and operate Chariots of Fire Customs in Troy, Missouri, where the Drag Specialties dealer has built its name on exactly what the couple values most: “Our service, performance work, customization, and honesty and integrity with all of our customers,” Jan says. “Our motto is, ‘Custom is in our name, quality is in our products and service is our reputation’.”
Surrounded by farmland, Troy is a small rural community of around 16,000 people near the Mississippi and Cuivre rivers. Located just outside city limits, Chariots of Fire Customs is housed in a custom-built 11,600 square-foot building with 13 lifts that Jan calls his “dream facility.”
DREAM FACILITY
“We have been in business for twenty-one years and it took us thirteen years to purchase and build our dream facility,” Jan explains. “After years of visiting other shops, we came up with a great layout. The shop flows superbly for getting bikes on and off lifts as well as bringing them in for service and out for test riding.”
That attention to flow extends beyond the service area. The retail space is laid out to give the service writers, parts department and customer lounge defined areas, with a straight, open path from the front door to the back that mirrors the shop itself.
“We also have a back covered patio that is 40 x 40 and attached to the building. This was super important, especially to Reine. First, it provides shelter from the weather when our customers are dropping off or picking up their
Chariots of Fire Customs is a Drag Specialties dealership in Troy, Missouri that’s built its reputation on honesty, integrity and stellar V-Twin service and customization.
bikes. Second, it provides an area for raffle items, tables and chairs for our guests, and a spot for our food vendor.”
Initially, when Jan launched the business in March 2005, Chariots of Fire Customs was housed in a small shopping plaza in neighboring Moscow Mills, Missouri. They twice expanded in that location before moving to an old Ford dealership in Troy that offered a sizeable increase in space.
“Now we’re at our third, and final, location,” Jan says.
Jan’s passion for motorcycles, coupled with the popularity of the biker build-offs and motorcycle reality shows led him to first open his doors. In 2004 a young co-worker of Reine’s approached him about starting up a motorcycle shop. In short succession he opened up Chariots of Fire LLC in March 2005, and they bought the young co-worker out six months later.
Chariots of Fire Customs works with most V-twins and will do light maintenance on metrics. In addition to service, Jan specializes in creating ground-up custom bikes and trikes as well as building high-horsepower motors. The shop has an average of 40 to 50 bikes in for service at any given time, although this Spring Jan was looking at 70 open tickets that he and his team were working their way through. The slower months allow for the custom bike and motor builds.
According to Jan, his average customers are middleclass, hard-working individuals with a passion for riding motorcycles. “They are looking for good customer service; a shop they can trust,” he says. “This can be an expensive hobby, so they are looking for quality work.”
That’s Jan’s custom 2023 Road Glide featuring a host of products from the FatBook.
The Chariots of Fire team built this customer’s bike with horsepower in mind, in fact it clocked in with 187 hp when it was last tuned.
The Chariots of Fire Customs team, from left: Frank Emma, parts/service; Jan and Reine Knobbe, owners; Williy Hofmann, technician; and Rick Dunlap, technician and part-time manager.
Where do those customers come from?
While Troy might be a small rural community, Chariots of Fire’s customers come from all over. News of honest work done right travels fast in the motorcycle world.
“The majority come from northeast Missouri and St. Louis, but we do have regulars from as far south as Arkansas and north into Iowa plus other states,” Reine says. “There are even some that have moved further away and still ask us to work on their bikes when they come to Missouri.”
HONESTY & INTEGRITY
Jan, Reine and their team must be doing things right. Chariots of Fire Customs has a stellar 4.7 Google rating with nearly 300 reviews. They chalk up those high customer service marks to the inherent honesty and integrity that’s built into the business.
“Customer service is so important,” Jan says. “We take the time to explain what options the customer has when helping them decide on performance work, stereo systems, lighting, you name it. People appreciate good quality work. Plus, friendly faces and hugs from Reine also help.”
“As a young man, I had a great boss who was a large St. Louis auto dealership owner,” Jan says. “He had a motto, which I adopted as a core principle here at Chariots of Fire: ‘True, we’re in business to make a profit, but if we focus on profit, we may ultimately lose the customer. However, if we focus on customers, the profit will always be there.’”
Knowing this, they tell their team that every bike that comes through the doors needs to be treated like it’s their own. “There are only two wheels under you and it must be safe to ride first and foremost,” Jan says. “All of the rest is just icing on the cake.”
While Chariots of Fire Customs counts on local community advertising and social media to attract more business, the way they treat their customers makes word-ofmouth their No. 1 driver for growth.
COMMUNITY-BUILDING
While the business is primarily driven by word-of-mouth, the Drag Specialties dealer
Frank Emma at the parts counter.
The parts department is stocked full of plenty of parts, accessories and other items from the FatBook.
Chariots of Fire Customs has an average of 40 to 50 bikes in for service at any given time. The shop handle everything from routine maintenance to full-blown custom builds.
is also active in its local community. They started off with small event, but built this outreach in a full calendar year of activities.
“When we were starting out, we used to hold dinner runs,” Jan explains. “Every Thursday evening during the riding season we would have folks meet us at the shop when we closed. Reine would pick out a different restaurant with a back roads route. It built camaraderie and lasting friendships. Unfortunately, it was so successful that we had to end the rides as they got too big.”
Chariots of Fire Customs has built that busy events calendar around both riders and local causes, a lineup that includes six bike nights per year, as well as six major events. The Lincoln County Bike Night takes place the second Saturday of each month from April through September.
The events list is impressive; there’s a Customer Appreciation Day, a Blessing of the Bikes, and the Lincoln County Ride to Fight Suicide that benefits the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Other fundraisers include a motorcycle show for the Hartbauer-McBride Memorial Foundation (aka Bikers Helping Bikers) and a Christmas in July event benefiting youth in need. There’s also the Save the Ta Tas event that supports Pink Ribbon Good, and a benefit for Camp Hope, a veterans’ organization in Farmington, Missouri.
“These fundraisers are organized by Reine with the help of other local businesswomen and friends. It takes a community to help the community,” Jan says. “Just ask, we will donate to most causes, including individual fundraisers and organizations.”
A LASTING RELATIONSHIP
From that first day back in 2005 when he opened his doors, Jan has counted on his partnership with Drag Specialties.
“Drag relies on the same thing the dealers do – good quality parts from good quality manufacturers. Vendors who stand behind their products, that is key,” he says. “The best thing we have done over the years is to take advantage of the NVP events and Drag Specialties Dealer Rides. We have forged long-lasting relationships with many of the vendors, and I can call a specific vendor and know exactly who I’m speaking to.”
That kind of access matters to a shop like Chariots of Fire Customs, where staying current on products, promotions and vendor relationships can help keep both the service side and the retail side moving. For Jan and Reine, that support also takes shape in the relationship they have with Drag Specialties sales rep Todd Sheedy.
“Todd keeps us updated on new products coming out, alerts us of specials and the many promotions Drag offers, keeps the numbers and lets us know how we are doing,”
Jan says. “[He] has brought vendors to the shop to help us learn about their products, and even reminds us to make sure we get our hotels for the NVP events.”
“When it comes time to make our big order at the end of the year, Todd is instrumental in keeping us on track to get the order in on time,” Jan adds. “Having the one-on-one contact with Todd coming to the shop is very important to us and he has become a real friend.”
That respect runs both ways. Sheedy says working with Jan and Reine has been just as rewarding, and he points to their drive and customer focus as key reasons the shop has built such a strong reputation.
“The folks at Chariots of Fire Customs are a great group to work with; they are very passionate about the business and their customers, and it shows with their success,” Sheedy says. “I have known them for about 15 years, and Jan and Reine both work hard at the shop and put in a lot of time and never slow down. They are not only owners, they are enthusiasts. I wish them many more years of success.” ■
The Pink Ribbon Good event is the shop’s annual Save the Ta Tas Ride fundraiser, which takes place every September.
Chariots of Fire Customs is heavily involved in the local community, and hosts events throughout the year. Here customers bid on items at a silent auction raising money for Bikers Helping Bikers.
From Salt Flats to Showrooms
Two Decades of Innovation, Speed & Dealer Traction
In 2026, Klock Werks is celebrating its 20-year exclusive relationship with Drag Specialties, a relationship that all began with the World’s Fastest Bagger. When Klock Werks was invited to build a bike for Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off series in 2006, the company chose a Bagger – not what anyone expected to see in a gallery filled with choppers, Bobbers and prostreet creations.
Company founder Brian Klock felt his team should lean into the work they were already doing. The roots of “Kustom”
Baggers go back to Brian’s father and his friends, then later to customers as the trend took off around 2004. At the time Brian had his eye on creating a global parts brand – big dreams for a small-town kid from Emery, South Dakota, population 350 – and that Build-Off Bagger helped pave the way.
That initial build became the WFB (Way Fast Bagger), featuring a 124-inch S&S Cycle powerplant upgraded with B2 heads and backed by a Baker Drivetrain six-speed transmission. The bike ultimately won that episode of the popular TV build-off series. That led to a 2006 Biker BuildOff win at Sturgis, and then to Klock Werks’ official entry into the FatBook with 35 parts.
From there, Brian and the team took the award-winning bike to the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats, where they proved the motorcycle’s capabilities and set a record, making WFB the “World’s Fastest Bagger.”
While the bike made history that week in Bonneville, it still wobbled at speed. During the ride home, Brian found himself with his arm out the window testing the air. As he and the team discussed the bike’s handling, it became clear the front end lifted at highway speeds and beyond. Brian realized the angle of his hand in the wind changed the airflow, pushing his hand down or lifting it up. In that moment, the Flare Windshield was born. That windshield would become Klock Werks’ signature part.
Thanks to Drag Specialties’ network of reps and reach to dealers, the Flare Windshield achieved record single-item sales in its first year at NVP. Those Flare Windshields are still going strong, and with Klock Werks’ Flare Demo Program, your customers can try before they buy. By offering riders some seat time behind a Flare, dealers can let them experience its features and benefits.
The stability and protection the Flare Windshield provides have created loyal fans and customers since the beginning. With new motorcycles comes new innovation, leading to the Kolor series and the Flare Hand Guard lineup, which debuted at Sturgis 2025.
That fate-filled week on the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2006 still echoes with the 20th anniversary celebration with Drag. Back in the beginning, LeMans Corporation’s late founder Fred Fox pulled Brian aside and said, “Do you have any idea what you have done in the past month? This is going to be big!” Those words pair perfectly with Tom Motzko’s famous line: “Careful what you wish for...” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep and check out the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
The World’s Fastest Bagger hit the cover of Drag Specialties Magazine in 2006, marking a breakout moment for Brian Klock and Klock Werks and the start of a long relationship with Drag.
Born from the World’s Fastest Bagger project on the Bonneville Salt Flats, the Flare Windshield has evolved into a signature Klock Werks look with matching handguards. They’re both now available in a range of colors.
for 20 years!
Twenty years ago, a ride home after racing in Bonneville sparked an idea that changed motorcycling forever.
Born on the Salt Flats, the Flare® Windshield delivers proven air management with patented “hips” that create downforce and a signature “flip” that pushes air up and over both rider and passenger.
Today, the Flare® is available for 30+ models, in 16 different kolors,and
SSeeing is Believing Displays to Make Selling Lighting Easy
elling aftermarket lighting gets a lot easier when the lights are right there in front of the customer.
Custom Dynamics has designed its lighting displays to take the hard work out of selling and upselling, so a dealer can easily send a customer home with a whole set of aftermarket lighting upgrades.
Because Custom Dynamics has such a variety of lighting products and electrical modules available for Harley-Davidson Touring models, there are all kinds of possibilities for how a customer can upgrade their bike. The mixing and matching is part of the fun.
“Dealers with our lighting displays are guaranteed to see a noticeable increase in customer engagement,” says Custom Dynamics Chief Sales Officer Rob Bluma. “Customers are drawn to the brightness and motion, and it naturally opens the door for conversations about upgrading their bikes. It’s one of the easiest ways to turn foot traffic into sales.”
Typically, a display will feature a popular product for a Touring bike, like the ProBEAM Taillights in low-profile or square-back designs. The five light pipes that make up the running light are impossible to miss in a display thanks to their brightness and modern design. There are also 25 separate LEDs that provide a full-contrast brake light. Placed in a high-traffic area, that display is sure to draw some attention.
The lighting displays from Custom Dynamics are like silent salesmen, showing off the sleek designs and bright LEDs that make the brand’s products a standout. From large dealers to small independent shops, there’s a Custom Dynamics display to fit the space. The options range from single-product displays to large free-standing product showcases, and they’re free with a qualifying order.
Once the conversation has started about Custom Dynamics lights, it’s easy to talk about addons. If a customer is interested in the ProBEAM Taillights, it’s helpful to also have a set of ProBEAM Fillerz on display, so they can see how well the two products complement each other. The Fillerz mount on either side of the taillight, filling in the stock cutout on Harley Touring model fender supports with nine light pipes.
Another option for bundling Custom Dynamics products is adding a Magic Strobes Brake Light Flasher. This plug-and-play module has 10 selectable flash/ strobe patterns to amp up the visibility of the rear lighting.
For riders who want even more of a punch of light at the rear of their Touring bike, the LED Saddlebag Lights increase visibility while still keeping a sleek look. There are two designs available for these lights, including low-profile and ProBEAM options. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to get started with a Custom Dynamics display. Find the company’s Touring lighting in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Custom Dynamics countertop and floor displays put bright, working lighting upgrades in front of customers. They help spark conversations, support bundling and turn showroom traffic into stronger accessory sales for the dealership.
Wide Load Rear Tires Sized for Custom Bikes
The tires that go on a custom bike should never feel like an afterthought. For a long time, it was a challenge for a builder to find a wide rear tire that had the same quality and attention to detail as the bike it was going on. The Cobra Chrome tire from Avon changes that, providing the premium performance, stylish design and those big rear sizes builders want.
Marketing North America. “So many custom builders rely on our extra-wide fitments. While the aggressive styling gives the bikes a great look, they are also outstanding performers on the road too.”
Shops like Roys Toys use Cobra Chrome tires exclusively, and for a lot more reasons than the great variety of sizes. There’s no reason to build a oneof-a-kind bike, then throw on a set of tires that don’t take the show on the road with precision.
The smallest of the wide rear tires isn’t small at all, but the 230/60B15 is just the start. For customs that require going really big, there’s a 300/35VR18 or a 330/30R17. And, of course, there’s everything in between, so that builders have a choice of 7 different wide tire sizes to suit the style of each build.
“Our massive rear tires are a standout in the Cobra Chrome range,” says Don Argento, Manager Motorcycle Sales &
Cobra Chrome tires are now made at Goodyear’s manufacturing facility in France, in the same spot where the brand makes its racing tires. That means Cobra Chrome tires are made on hightech, high-quality equipment, and that’s evident with every tire that rolls off the line.
A Roys Toys bike – or any bike with a wide Cobra Chrome rear – isn’t going to have any balance issues or wobbling, despite its massive size. When a bike is at speed, the tire remains stable and predictable.
Plus, the manufacturing process for the Cobra Chrome tire includes a unique way of producing the optional whitewall finish. It stays white, mile after mile, so it continues to look great while adding a pop of color and style to any bike. The snakeskin-inspired design and embossed Cobra head just add to the aesthetics.
These features mean that not only do custom bikes get a wide rear tire that looks great, but both builders and riders know they’re getting a tire they can trust.
Of course, builders have a list of front tire sizes to choose from, as well, including the iconic 23-inch Cobra Chrome front tire. ■
» Learn more about why custom builders turn to Avon Cobra Chrome tires and find all the wide rear sizes in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Roys Toys turns to Avon Cobra Chrome tires for custom V-Twins because wide rear fitments, premium performance and stable road feel matter just as much as the bike’s finished look. Steve Davis photos
TO STAND OUT
With their snakeskin-effect tread, Avon Cobra Chrome tyres certainly stand out. And with a 5% larger tyre footprint you can expect better traction and shorter stopping distances, even in the wet. Available in a wide range of sizes including WhiteWalls, Avon Cobra Chrome can help you make your mark.
Heavyweight Contender Performance Lubricants for V-Twins
Since 1957, LIQUI MOLY has built a reputation for producing high-quality motor oils and additives, consistently earning top rankings from consumers for more than 15 years.
Branon White of Mad Monkey Motorsports, along with rider Max Flinders, has seen those results firsthand. With more than 25 years of experience building performance race engines, White understands that reliability isn’t optional, it’s everything.
LIQUI MOLY’s V-Twin lubricant lineup includes 20W-50 mineral oil, 10W-60 and 20W-50 HD, giving riders solutions for a range of performance needs.
That passion shows up in performance. White first encountered LIQUI MOLY at the Drag Specialties Show in Louisville. After digging into the technical data and putting it to the test on the track, the results spoke for themselves.
“We saw a 13-degree drop in engine temperature,” White says. “That’s not something you typically see. It immediately got our attention.”
Beyond engine oils, LIQUI MOLY continues to expand its footprint in the V-Twin market with performance-focused
For V-Twin riders, LIQUI MOLY’s 15W fork oil offers fully synthetic performance, consistent damping and long-haul protection for critical internal suspension components.
“You have to run a lubricant you can trust every time,” White explains. “Whether it’s in a customer build or on the track, consistency is key, and LIQUI MOLY delivers.”
A major advantage of the LIQUI MOLY lineup is its depth across the V-Twin segment. From 20W-50 mineral oil to 10W-60 and the popular 20W-50 HD, the brand offers solutions tailored to a wide range of performance needs. For White and his team, the 20W-50 HD has become a go-to.
The fully synthetic formula is designed to handle extreme thermal stress while delivering outstanding wear protection. Engineered specifically for Harley-Davidson engines, it not only protects critical components but also helps maintain peak performance under demanding conditions. There’s also history behind the formulation. According to Jason Hess of LIQUI MOLY USA, the oil traces back to former owner Ernst Prost.
“He was a huge Harley enthusiast, and the 20W-50 HD oil was something he was incredibly passionate about,” says Hess. “It was more than just a product; it was personal.”
More than a traditional octane booster, LIQUI MOLY Speed Additive improves fuel atomization to support cleaner running, better throttle response and more efficient combustion.
solutions. One standout is its Speed Additive. While often mistaken for a traditional octane booster, the additive works differently, improving fuel atomization for more efficient combustion. The result is better throttle response, increased energy output and a cleaner-running engine.
“It helps the engine run more efficiently while also cleaning the fuel system along the way,” Hess explains.
Suspension performance is another critical piece of the puzzle, and LIQUI MOLY addresses it with a range of fork oils designed for consistency and durability. Its fully synthetic 15W fork oil, in particular, has become a strong option for V-Twin riders, delivering reliable damping performance while protecting internal components over the long haul.
From engine protection to fuel efficiency and suspension performance, LIQUI MOLY continues to position itself as a serious contender in the V-Twin space, backed by realworld testing and decades of engineering expertise. ■
» Connect with your Drag rep to learn more about LIQUI MOLY’s full range of products for performance-minded V-Twins. Find it all in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST. PERFORMANCE YOU CAN FEEL.
STOCK UP WITH OUR 20 LITERS.
Quick Cruiser
V-Twin Tires Designed for Performance
Aftermarket exhaust? Check. An ABS braking setup and traction control? Check and check. Tires that can keep up with all those performance upgrades? If a V-Twin rider has a set of Metzeler Cruisetec tires mounted, then that’s a big yes, too.
The Cruisetec tire is specifically designed as a performance tire for V-Twin Cruisers. Riders get the technical features they need for true confidence on the road, all without sacrificing that classic Cruiser look.
The Cruisetec uses a steeper profile than traditional V-Twin and Cruiser tires, one inspired by the company’s Sport Touring tires. That design improves handling and agility during cornering while maintaining the straightline stability V-Twin and Cruiser riders expect.
Cornering is also more stable and precise thanks to the dualcompound rubber used in the Cruisetec tire. The shoulder compound is softer, which provides outstanding grip during both turn-in and while riding through the corners.
The Cruiser segment has really leaned into the performance aspect in the past 10 years, and bikes are better than ever, with more power and improved handling. Today’s bikes require a tire that can keep up, and the Cruisetec delivers. The team at Metzeler packed the Cruisetec tire with technologies that can handle an upgraded bike with ease, whether that’s a bigger engine or aftermarket mods, like an exhaust that boosts horsepower.
“Metzeler has been building tires for V-Twin riders for decades, so we have a deep understanding of this segment,” said Joseph Lee, Marketing Manager, Metzeler. “What’s changed in recent years is the performance expectations of those riders. The bikes are faster, heavier and more capable than ever before, and riders are pushing them to the limit. We developed the Cruisetec specifically to meet those demands, drawing on our long history in the cruiser segment and the performance engineering we’ve refined in Sport Touring. It’s the tire this segment has earned.”
At the same time, the center of the tire has a sturdy compound to provide the right levels of longevity and stability for a Cruiser. In Metzeler’s testing, the results were clear: the Cruisetec tire will match or even exceed the mileage a rider can expect from an OEM tire. The compound also includes silica to provide fast warm-up and improved traction.
The tread pattern and overall styling of the Cruisetec tire still have a classic V-Twin look, balancing aesthetics with those performance features. The tread pattern isn’t just for looks, of course. It’s designed to perform well in all conditions, including the wet. The tread pattern also works with the curvature of the tire to provide a consistent contact patch.
In all, the Metzeler Cruisetec tire is a hyper-modern tire that delivers the right blend of technology, longevity and looks to give V-Twin riders a performance edge. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more, and find all sizes and fitments in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Cruisetec tires blend Metzeler’s Sport Touring pedigree with V-Twin style, using a dual-compound design and performance-minded tread pattern for cornering grip, stability, mileage and all-condition confidence.
Cruisetec tires use dual-compound construction, pairing a softer shoulder for cornering grip with a sturdier center compound for the stability and mileage V-Twin riders expect.
PERFORMANCE
The Metzeler Cruisetec is engineered for riders who refuse to compromise, and it shows. Sport-touring-inspired profiles and a dualcompound rear deliver confident, predictable handling that makes every road more enjoyable, whether you’re carving mountain curves or cruising the open highway. Backed by Metzeler’s German engineering heritage, the Cruisetec brings out the best in V-Twin performance without sacrificing the comfort and ride quality that make the miles memorable. Ask your Drag Specialties dealer about the Cruisetec today.
Bagger Booster Performance Exhausts for M8 Touring Models
Getting more performance out of a MilwaukeeEight motor means having the right exhaust system. M8 Baggers get a boost in sound, style and performance with a Vance & Hines *(EMIS Code 3) Gaslighter 2-1 or *(EMIS Code 3) Gaslighter 2-1 HS system for M8 Touring models.
Both of these systems are crafted with the quality and performance one would expect from a Vance & Hines product. The Gaslighter systems give an instant boost in power to both Gen-1 and Gen-2 M8 Baggers while maintaining a classic look. And, to make it even better, the price point is an attractive one.
Close-up details of the Gaslighter 2-1 reveal the system’s seamless styling, quality construction and the craftsmanship that helps define Vance & Hines exhausts.
“Sound, style and performance under $1,000 makes it an easy decision when you want your Bagger to go faster,” says Vance & Hines Sales Manager Robert Martinez.
The Gaslighter 2-1 HS includes the collector heat shields, while the Gaslighter 2-1 omits those for riders who want a no-frills option. The long headers are designed to hug the lines of an M8 Touring model for a seamless look, and the
For Milwaukee-Eight Touring models, the Vance & Hines Gaslighter 2-1 blends classic style with the sound and performance gains riders expect from the brand.
sound produced by these systems is a satisfying rumble. The Vance & Hines logo is stamped onto each Gaslighter exhaust, so everyone knows exactly who is responsible for the power gains and distinctive sound.
The 304 stainless steel construction combines both hightech processes and handcrafted artistry. Robotic cutting and bending are used for components that require absolute precision. This modern approach results in a consistent fit and heat-shield orientation for every system.
At the same time, there are parts of the process that require old-school craftsmanship. That can especially be seen in the TIG welding on the header of the Gaslighter 2-1 and in the headers and heat shields of the Gaslighter 2-1 HS. All of that TIG welding is done by hand to produce a beautiful result.
Like every exhaust system from Vance & Hines, both versions of the Gaslighter system underwent hours of R&D to dial in the best power gains for a street-oriented customer. Riders will especially be able to experience the company’s performance expertise in the low-end torque.
That expertise comes from more than 45 years in business. Just like Terry Vance and Byron Hines set out to do decades ago, the goal has always been to give riders the sound, style and performance they want. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep to learn more about the Gaslighter 2-1 and Gaslighter 2-1 HS systems for M8 Touring models. You can find them and other Vance & Hines systems in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
LLess Hassle, Better Setup
Fast Preload Adjustment without Bag Removal
et’s face it, taking the saddlebags off a Harley-Davidson Touring model to adjust the suspension preload for a change in rider, passenger or luggage configuration is not always easy or convenient.
Now, Progressive Suspension has a solution. The company’s new Quik Preload System (QPS) for its 444 Series and 944 Series touring shocks makes adjusting preload quick and easy with just an 8mm socket.
With QPS, it’s no longer necessary to remove the saddlebags to adjust the sag when going from a single rider to a two-up riding configuration, and then back to a solo riding experience. Your customers can adjust suspension preload for changing loads in less than a minute, using a sealed gear-driven preload adjuster that offers 30 full turns of fine-tuning across 17mm of adjustment.
The ease of adjustment is a big selling point, says Progressive Suspension’s Sales Manager, David Nissen. “Because in less than 60 seconds, the sag can be set perfectly for any rider/passenger configuration.”
This means your customers won’t have to spend a lot of time and effort dialing in their suspension before getting out on the road. And a well-sorted suspension setup makes the ride that much better.
If your customers are already running Progressive Suspension’s 444 Series or 944 Series shocks featuring standard, heavy duty and super duty spring rates, Progressive offers a Quik Preload System (QPS) Upgrade Kit compatible with those popular shocks.
Featuring a black anodized finish, the QPS Upgrade Kit replaces the original upper shock cap on 444 Series and 944 Series shocks. Once installed, the QPS Upgrade Kit lets riders adapt suspension preload for changing loads in less than a minute with a few turns of an 8mm socket and no need to remove saddlebags.
As with Progressive Suspension’s other products, the QPS Upgrade Kit comes with a Lifetime Limited Warranty. ■
» To learn more about the Quik Preload System and Upgrade Kit, talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep. Also check out Progressive’s big lineup in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Progressive Suspension’s Quik Preload System helps Harley Touring riders fine-tune preload quickly with an 8mm socket for changing solo, two-up or loaded riding setups.
A sealed gear-driven preload adjuster gives Progressive Suspension’s Quik Preload System fast, precise tuning with 30 full turns across 17mm of adjustment.
#keepitcustom SINCE 1996
HandTitanguards
Build the Baggers Right Core M8
Upgrades in One Place
For customers building a Milwaukee-Eight Performance Bagger, S&S Cycle offers the key parts needed to turn a big-inch build into a stronger, more dependable package.
More displacement may start the project, but that also changes the conversation fast. Once customers choose a big-bore kit, the focus shifts to the parts needed to support the added output. That shift gives dealers a chance to guide the build beyond one part and toward a more complete package.
“S&S Cycle has always been about engine performance, but we also see the need to help customers make sure
S&S gives dealers a strong starting point for MilwaukeeEight builds with its big-bore kits, a bolt-on package with forged pistons, hardware and gaskets.
Once displacement goes up, S&S’s heavy-duty primary chain helps support the added torque with a direct OEMreplacement upgrade built for strength and durability.
S&S’s heavy-duty compensator ramp is built to handle added horsepower and torque with a direct-replacement design for Milwaukee-Eight models.
that added power gets to the back wheel,” says Howard Kelly, S&S Cycle VP Marketing. “That gave us a reason to develop the right parts for the primary drive.”
S&S backs that up with a lineup that covers the big bore foundation as well as key primary-side upgrades. For Milwaukee-Eight customers building a more serious Touring or performance setup, that means dealers can source the major pieces from one brand instead of piecing the package together from multiple directions.
It starts with the big-bore kit lineup. S&S offers a few options for Milwaukee-Eight builds, giving dealers flexibility when customers are looking for the right setup for their engine package. One example is the 107-to-124-inch bigbore kit for 107 M8 models.
This bolt-on kit requires no machining and includes the gaskets and hardware needed for installation. It features a 4.250-inch bore, forged pistons and an 11:1 compression ratio. The kit is available in highlighted and non-highlighted versions, including a wrinkle black finish with highlighted fins.
Once the big bore direction is set, attention shifts to the driveline. S&S’s heavy-duty primary chain is designed to handle the torque and horsepower of today’s performance V-Twins. Heat-treated components help reduce stretch and maintenance, while precision engineering is designed to extend chain life. As a direct OEM replacement, it gives dealers a simple upgrade path, and the chain is described as 11 percent stronger.
The S&S Billet Clutch Basket continues that story. Designed as a direct replacement for the stock unit, it is precision CNC machined from solid billet aluminum and uses patent-pending stainless steel wear-liner inserts to address stock-basket notching for smoother clutch actuation over time. Integrated carbon steel threaded inserts add strength and reliability. It is also compatible with clutch packs made to fit the stock basket, including Rekluse TorqDrive clutch packs. S&S reports that it handles more than 200 lb.-ft. of torque and has been drag-strip tested.
The S&S billet clutch basket helps complete the package with a design built for strength, smoother actuation and long-term reliability.
To round out the package, the S&S Heavy Duty Compensator Ramp is a direct replacement for M8 models. CNC machined from 9000 series steel and case-hardened for wear resistance and core toughness, it is built to handle upgraded horsepower and torque. It is also made in the USA. ■
» Talk with your Drag Specialties rep for more details, and find more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Plug. Play. Premium.
Bright Style Upgrade for Bagger Fairings
Goatees aren’t just a style of facial hair. Dating back to the beatniks of the 1940s and ‘50s to the rebellions of the 1960s and beyond, goatees have been a statement of departure from establishment, balancing ruggedness with sophistication.
What does this have to do with motorcycles, you ask? This type of persona and the desire to take the road less traveled has fueled motorcycle culture for over a century, driving innovation from players in the aftermarket, too.
just about 45 minutes, your customers can have the front of their bike beaming.
“These lights aren’t just for show, they let everyone on the road know that you are coming their way” says Shawn Andersen, Marketing Coordinator for Ciro. “Bright white, piercing LEDs and amber turn signals cut through the darkness, providing extra visibility and attitude wherever customers ride. With its aggressive design and simple installation, the GOAT-E Light blends function and style.”
Road Glide and Street Glide customers get a clean front-end upgrade with Ciro’s GOAT-E lights, plug-and-play installation and bold LED style.
Harnessing this spirit are Ciro’s GOAT-E™ lights for latemodel Road Glides and Street Glides, game-changing upgrades that add serious style and lighting performance.
The GOAT-E light is designed to sit just beneath the headlight – resembling the namesake beard – with precision-engineered fitment tailored for each bike. Sleek integration is met with a bold look that gets even bolder when the integrated LED lights are fired up.
Front and center is a group of intense white LEDs pumping out over 700 lumens of focused light, increasing visibility to other people on the road. Each unit also incorporates amber LED turn signals that flawlessly sync with the bike’s OEM signals via the included Ciro Plug-N-Play wiring harness.
Installation is quick and painless, too. Remove the fairing and a plastic trim piece and replace it with the GOAT-E light, plugging into OEM wiring already in the fairing. In
Ciro’s GOAT-E light sits beneath the headlight – like the namesake beard – adding over 700 lumens of white LED output and integrated amber turn signals for added visibility.
Black or chrome finishes are available for both the Road Glide and Street Glide, complementing the rest of the accessories your customers are running on their bike. Each unit is covered under Ciro’s 3-year / LED limited lifetime warranty, giving both you and your customers some peace of mind.
Performance, looks, ease of use—GOAT-E Lights are the complete package, and that’s evident in the five-star reviews across the board on Ciro’s website. Product quality, lighting performance and customer support via video content and direct contact are all common themes among Ciro’s rave reviews, solidifying its commitment to putting riders first. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details or check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
FMore than Horsepower
Race-Proven Chassis Upgrades for Touring Bikes
or dealers and performance shops looking to go beyond horsepower gains on Harley Davidson Touring builds, chassis integrity and responsiveness are just as critical.
Trask’s billet aluminum swingarm and billet tail section are engineered upgrades that provide stability, durability and confidence under load, the type of enhancements customers expect from Trask’s range of high-performance parts.
“Our billet swingarm and tail section address fundamental limitations in stock Touring chassis,” says Nick Trask.
“For dealers and shops, these parts give a performance foundation customers can feel; tighter handling, improved stability and confidence backed by race-proven engineering.”
The Trask Billet aluminum swingarm replaces the flexprone stock arm with a rigid, lightweight T6061 billet aluminum structure proven on Trask race bikes in real racing environments like the Bagger Racing League. Designed for 2002-2026 Harley Davidson FL Touring models,
it improves high-speed stability and ensures consistent tracking under acceleration, braking and hard cornering. Its modular construction accommodates multiple build styles, while adjustable shock positions let shops optimize suspension for each rider.
The upgraded axle alignment system, adjustable chain tensioning and included stainless hardware, spherical bearings and Delrin chain guides simplify installation. The swingarm ships raw and disassembled for custom finishing and works with the stock brake caliper and mount or the Trask TM 3200 15 radial caliper mount.
Completing the chassis package is the Trask billet tail section, a precision-machined subframe that adds rigidity and saves more than eight pounds compared to stock
construction. Built for 2009-2026 Harley Davidson Touring models, it improves power-to-weight ratio and agility.
Proven on Trask Performance Race Baggers, it withstands aggressive riding and real-world use. FXR-inspired carbon fiber side covers add aggressive styling with minimal weight, and the assembly bolts directly in place of the OEM tail section. Like the swingarm, it ships raw and unassembled for full customization.
Together, these components let performance dealers offer true chassis upgrades that complement powertrain enhancements. For riders pushing their machines harder, whether on the street or on the track, the added stiffness and reduced mass translate directly into performance and confidence. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep to learn more about the Trask billet aluminum swingarm, billet tail section, and other high-performance upgrades in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Proven on Trask race bikes, this billet aluminum swingarm helps Touring models stay composed under acceleration, braking and cornering, with modular construction for fitment flexibility.
Built for 2009-2026 Harley-Davidson Touring models, Trask’s billet tail section improves stiffness, trims weight and gives riders a stronger foundation for street or track performance.
WKit Convenience
An Oil Change with One Part Number
e have all been there. You start what you think is going to be a quick oil change, only to realize you grabbed the wrong filter or don’t have enough oil on hand for the job. Or, maybe, you’re missing one simple element, like a fresh O-ring.
Drag Specialties Oil Change Kits are designed to make sure those “oops” moments never happen again. By packaging everything needed for an oil change into one kit—and just one part number—an oil change will be every bit as quick and easy as it should be.
A Drag Specialties OCK saves more than headaches and frustration: it’s also a way to save time and money. By having just one part number for the whole oil change, with everything right there in the box, dealers don’t have to hunt through inventory to find all the individual components. Instead, that extra time can be spent serving customers. Or, for riders who prefer a DIY approach, it’s more time they can spend out on a ride instead of stuck in the garage.
And, by ordering a kit rather than individual components, there’s a cost savings, too. As Drag’s Tom Motzko puts it,
As Pete Larrabee, longtime Drag Tech and key catalog support expert puts it, this kit gives riders and dealers alike “peace of mind knowing you have everything needed for that oil change.”
Each Oil Change Kit (OCK) includes DS3 20W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil, an oil filter in either chrome or black, an O-ring and a disposable funnel. Because each kit is model-specific, the amount of oil included is the correct volume for that bike’s engine.
For M8 applications, that means each OCK includes 5 quarts, while a Twin Cam kit only needs 4 quarts to get the job done. There’s no need to count how many quarts to order since it’s all included.
“These kits are making complete oil changes for EVOs, Twin Cams and M8 model Harley-Davidsons simple and cost effective for our dealers and their customers!”
It’s a win all around.
When it comes to the oil included in the kit, Drag Specialties chose its premium DS3 20W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil, which is designed to keep an engine running at an optimal level. The film strength guards against heat and wear so the engine lasts longer, and the custom detergents help deter deposit buildup to keep things running clean. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to get more details about the Drag Specialties Oil Change Kits. Find all applications in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
With one part number and everything needed in the box, Drag Specialties Oil Change Kits help make oil changes faster and easier for your techs and DIY customers alike.
Styled to Stop Custom Rotors with Dealer Appeal
In the V-Twin market, a brake rotor can do more than replace a worn part. It can sharpen the look of a build, stand up to hard riding and give dealers another way to guide customers toward a more custom setup. That’s where GBrakes steps in, pairing its Wave rotors with a Custom Rotor Configurator that puts style and function in the same conversation.
At the core of the lineup is GBrakes’ Cryo-Tech® rotor treatment. It is engineered to enhance durability, reduce wear and maintain consistent braking performance under extreme conditions. That gives dealers a strong starting point with riders who want braking components built to handle heat and hard use.
“Our rotors show our commitment to quality without compromise,” says Sandro Milesi, CEO of GBrakes. “Yes, these are built and manufactured to absolutely exceed all braking needs most of us will ever encounter, but this is what we do, no excuses.”
Then there’s the look. GBrakes’ Wave® rotor design brings a sharp profile to the package, but it is not there just for style alone. According to GBrakes, the design improves heat dissipation, reduces weight and helps ensure optimal contact with brake pads for sharper, more responsive braking. That gives dealers a product with visual impact and a strong performance story to tell.
The custom side is where the configurator really grabs attention. GBrakes’ online Custom Rotor Configurator makes it easy to build a rotor setup that fits the character of each machine, whether the goal is clean and understated or bold enough to snag some stares at the busiest bike nights. Customers can choose from various front and rear blade sizes and styles, then dial in the final look with nine carrier colors and 11 button color options.
It is easy to use, too. Just create, save, share and compare builds before they are ready to buy. That gives dealers a practical sales tool and gives customers more confidence in what they are ordering. When the build is finalized, your Drag Specialties rep can help get each custom rotor ordered and into production.
“After years of special requests and realizing that we all want something special for our machine, this custom configurator was the perfect answer,” Milesi says. ■
» Talk with your Drag Specialties sales rep for details on how the Configurator can bring your customer’s custom rotors to life. Learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
GBrakes’ Custom Rotor Configurator lets customers create, save, share and compare builds, with Drag Specialties reps helping turn final designs into ordered, ready-to-install custom rotors.
The Wave blade is one option that can be paired with a variety of button colors and a choice of carriers for a full custom rotor setup.
A custom GBrakes Wave rotor brings visual impact to a V-Twin build, with color options that help customers match the look of their bike.
Heads Up Modular Meets Performance
There was a time when it was easy to categorize motorcycle riders. These days, it’s not so simple. Canyon-carving used to be something for the sportbike crowd, but the modern V-Twin means Cruiser riders can enjoy performance riding now, too. This
ICON’s
Closed or
kind of versatility in riding requires a versatile helmet, and ICON delivers with the Threshold.
The Threshold helmet gives the modern Cruiser rider all the convenience of a modular helmet while still giving off a performance look that matches the style of riding many in that segment enjoy.
“The helmet sits comfortably in that crossover space,” says ICON Senior Designer John Whitaker. “It delivers the everyday practicality of a modular without the visual or performance compromises riders have come to expect. It’s aggressive, modern and built for riders who treat their Cruiser like a performance machine, not a nostalgia piece.”
It all begins with the shell of the Threshold helmet. The handcrafted composite fiberglass shell, which meets world safety standards, strikes the right balance between light weight, strength and impact management. The aggressive lines of the helmet are true to ICON’s aesthetic while also fitting right into the performance Cruiser scene.
The modular chin bar flips up with the touch of a button. Easy to operate even with gloves on, the chin bar lifts easily for a conversation, a quick drink or even just a bit of fresh air.
Not that getting fresh air is a challenge. The oversized intake vents and exhaust ports make sure air flows through the EPS liner to keep heads cool even on hot days. Airflow isn’t just a comfort feature, either. A cooler, more comfortable rider won’t have as much fatigue on more aggressive rides, which is a must for a Cruiser rider who likes to explore the limits of their bike.
The view of the road ahead is a clear one with the FogFree Threshold Shield, which offers a wide, undistorted field of vision. That shield is combined with an internal Dropshield, which slides into place easily to cut the glare when things get too bright.
For riders who like to be connected, either with their tech or their riding companions, the Threshold helmet comes ready for an ICON Helmlink Bluetooth communication system, sold separately. This easy integration allows riders to get connected without giving up comfort.
Another feature of the Threshold helmet is the emergency release system. If an incident occurs, the emergency-release cheek pads allow for faster, safer helmet removal by a professional. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep about the Threshold helmet and why it’s a great choice for performance-minded Cruiser riders. You can find all sizes, colors and graphics in the Helmet & Apparel catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
flipped open, the ICON Threshold shows off the versatility of its modular design, giving riders easy access to fresh air, quick stops and everyday convenience.
Threshold helmet gives performanceminded Cruiser riders the modular convenience they want, with an aggressive look that fits right in on today’s powerful V-Twin builds.
A Better Bar Setup
Pivoting Risers Built Around Fit and Control
Sometimes, the best products are born from personal experiences. Rox Speed FX is a brand that came to be when the company’s late founder, Rocky Cutsforth, was looking for a solution to customize the handlebar position on his snowmobile. Those first adjustable risers led to the innovative V-Twin risers available for your customers today.
Pan America riding customers also have a model-specific pivoting riser option for a more natural, upright fit.
The benefits of pivoting risers for dialing in rider ergonomics go beyond the street. They can also be found on race bikes in Bagger Racing League, where riders use them to achieve a more race-focused, motocross-style control setup.
Founded on family values and based in Cohasset, Minnesota, Rox Speed FX grew up close to the snowmobile market. That background helped shape its pivoting bar risers, which were designed to help riders tailor fit and comfort to their size and preferences — an advantage that also works well on Harleys and other V-Twins.
“The pivoting riser is our premium product that allows the rider to adjust the handlebars to fit the reach and height of any rider,” says Chris Olin, President at Rox Speed FX.
“We are the original creator, making them in our machine shop since 1999. The big advantage in the V-Twin world is that you can adjust your comfort level without taking apart all the controls. No need to pull and push wires through the old and new handlebar.”
Rox Speed FX pivoting risers can mount on nearly any V-Twin motorcycle equipped with one-inch diameter handlebars. The key to the adjustability is in the patented design, allowing riders to position their bars and risers as one unit – forwards and backwards – with a few small minor adjustments.
The risers are available 2-inch, 3-inch and 4-inch rise, and come in black or machined aluminum finishes. There is also a chrome option that has a 2-inch or 3-inch rise. Your
Rox Speed FX also offers model-specific pivoting risers for Pan America models, helping riders achieve a more natural, upright fit for added comfort and control.
Rox Speed FX continues to manufacture in-house in Minnesota, pairing those family values with a focus on premium materials. Chris and the team follow Rocky’s lead, developing products to solve real rider problems and releasing them only after they have been proven. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details or check out Rox Speed FX’s lineup in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Whether on a street cruiser or a Bagger Racing League bike, Rox Speed FX pivoting risers help riders refine ergonomics with an adjustable, race-proven setup.
BDL built
What starts as making one good part can grow into something much bigger. For Steven Yetzke, that path led to Belt Drives Ltd., a company built around precision machining and performance-minded V-Twin components.
From a facility in Orange, California, BDL manufactures belt-drive systems, clutch kits and related components using its in-house lathes and CNC machines. The company had its own foundry until it became more efficient to purchase bar and plate stock and machine the billet aluminum than it was to pour its own.
Belt Drives Ltd. stands out by combining serious machining capability with a performance focus aimed squarely at Harley-Davidson applications.
on decades of in-house machining, turning raw 6061 and 7075 aluminum into precision V-Twin components shaped for performance, durability and demanding Harley-Davidson applications.
Belt Drives Ltd.’s open primary belt drives give highoutput V-Twins a clean look and a performanceminded setup built to help manage added horsepower and torque.
Built to Handle Power Performance Clutch
& Belt-Drive
Solutions
As owners and performance shops boost the power of Harley-Davidson M8 engines, the bikes need more competent clutch and drive systems. When an M8 V-Twin makes 115 hp and higher, Murley said the bike needs the one-piece motorplate like the one used in the EVO-16H-2 kit from Belt Drives Ltd.
For Touring models, this 2-inch open primary belt-drive kit helps prevent flex in the powertrain resulting from that higher power and torque. For V-Twins making less power and torque, Belt Drives makes the EV2PH-2 which uses a two-piece motorplate.
Your high-powered V-Twin customers should also look closely at the clutch kits made by Belt Drives Ltd. The company offers hydraulic and cable-clutch versions,
“Before he opened Belt Drives Ltd. in 1985, owner Steven Yetzke started back in the ’70s machining pulleys and belts first for Phase 3 and then for other manufacturers,” said Scott Murley with Belt Drives Ltd. “Today, we machine all the parts in-house from 6061 or 7075 aluminum and we polish them across the street.”
along with the clutch push rods and rod ends needed for the hydraulic models.
The CDB-720-SG4 clutch basket fits all big V-Twin models from 2007 to current and includes two clutch hub bearings. Belt Drives Ltd. also offers the CC-122-CSPP and CC-132-BB kits, which replace the stock clutch hub, clutch plates and pressure plate on many Harley-Davidson models. All Belt Drives clutch kits are designed with maximum surface area for greater holding power.
Depending on the “get up and go” in your customers’ VTwins, Belt Drives offers different diaphragm springs, steel or carbide ball bearings. There’s also a lock-up pressure plate that can confidently handle bikes with up to 220 hp and 229 ft. lbs. of torque. ■
» To learn more about Belt Drives Ltd. and its high-performance component manufacturing, contact your Drag Specialties sales representative, check out the FatBook, the OldBook and visit www.dragspecialties.com.
its name
WStyle Meets Stopping Power Custom-Look
Rotors for Modern V-Twins
hen SBS Friction first announced its collaboration with Kodlin, the Denmark-based braking company was focused on style.
“SBS has always made great-performing products,” says Angel June Hacker, SBS Aftermarket Sales Manager, “and the work with Kodlin helps enhance the aesthetics of those products.”
In March, at the grand opening of Kodlin USA’s new headquarters in New Braunfels, Texas, SBS and Kodlin showcased the results of that collaboration. Held in conjunction with the MotoGP races at nearby Circuit of the Americas, the event also underscored the partnership’s focus on both performance and style.
Kodlin USA also stands to gain from the partnership. The five-year-old U.S. company with German roots is looking to add “high-performance” to the vocabulary people use to describe the customizer and bolt-on manufacturer.
The new SBS Kodlin 7000-series rotors feature a CNCmachined inner carrier paired with a floating polished stainless-steel disc. That design delivers the benefits of a floating brake rotor, including reduced weight and improved heat dispersion. SBS also says it eliminates the noise and vibration found in some floating rotors.
These new rotors are available in a polished stainless-steel finish and a unique “ever-black” all-black finish. “We put a
The new SBS Signature 7000-series brake rotors are available for a wide range of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including all new Grand American Touring models. With Bagger racing on the rise and Kodlin USA helping V-Twin owners make their bikes their own, the timing of the SBS and Kodlin collaboration makes sense.
“On a global scale, SBS is a strong brand among motorcyclists. And we’re ready to make a bigger impact in the U.S. market,” says Hacker. “We see the Bagger and V-Twin side as a great opportunity for that.
“A lot of the Drag Specialties sales reps will have samples to show a demonstration of the quality and the machining of these rotors,” Hacker adds.
lot of R&D into creating a black rotor that stays black with high-quality pads,” says Hacker. She adds that this thermal chemical nitrate coating process is patented and results in a rotor that emits no dust and no squeaking, while enabling a smoother lever feel.
SBS designed the rotors specifically for Harley-Davidson M8 models, including Baggers and Pan America Adventure Touring motorcycles. With front and rear fitments available, they are also compatible with stock bikes and they fit many aftermarket wheels, including Arlen Ness models. The rotors are backed by a 12-month warranty. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for more details, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Blending Kodlin style with SBS braking know-how, the 7000-series rotor uses a CNC-machined inner carrier and floating disc design for a sharp look and performance-minded function.
SBS and Kodlin developed these 7000-series rotors to add custom style to Harley-Davidson models, with floating construction that helps reduce weight and improve heat dispersion.
Data by Design A Customizable Gauge Set
The gauges on a motorcycle are something every rider looks at frequently, but when it comes to the aesthetics, they can sometimes feel like an afterthought. KOSO North America lets riders be their own gauge designers with the sleek HD-03X TFT gauge set, which has a customizable display.
The HD-03X TFT gauge set is designed for 2014-23 HarleyDavidson Baggers and Trikes, and it gives riders a lot of freedom in what information they see and how they see
the app, it’s easy to monitor the information displayed on the gauges and more. Real-time data for things like speed, fuel level, oil temperature, rpm, horsepower and other points can all be viewed via the app, making it easy to see at a glance how well the bike is performing. There is even a diagnostics feature that enables the K Link app to display the health of the motorcycle’s systems, including error codes, so any trouble can be identified and taken care of.
The HD-03X TFT gauge set from KOSO North America pairs a sleek, customizable display with real-time data monitoring, giving Harley-Davidson Bagger and Trike riders clear readouts and a more personal look.
it. The plug-and-play gauge set is fully controllable via the KOSO K Link app, which allows for both customization and data monitoring via a smartphone.
When it comes to how the gauge set looks, riders can choose between an analog or digital interface. There are also eight colors to choose from for the backlighting, including day mode for easy reading, even in the bright sun.
“Since Harley riders love to customize their motorcycles, this product changes the game by giving them freedom and opportunity to have a unique look in harmony with their identity,” says Martin Samaniego with Lane Splitters Mfg., a partner of KOSO North America. “The different color combinations give a distinct and unique look to the bike.”
A good-looking gauge set is nice, but ultimately, it’s all about the data that can be accessed with it. Thanks to
The app and gauge set combination are even useful while off the bike – the app displays the bike’s location, so it will never be lost in a crowded parking lot.
Whether a rider chooses the analog or digital display, they can do so knowing the readouts will be extremely clear and bright thanks to the TFT display.
“Customers using the HD-03X consistently highlight the exceptional clarity and brightness of its TFT display,” says Samaniego. “They mention how crisp and vibrant the screen remains in all lighting conditions. The sharp contrast, smooth animations, and easy to read layout make key information instantly visible at a glance. Users also enjoy the modern and customized look it gives their bike.” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details about the HD-03X TFT gauge set from KOSO North America. You can find it in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
NIntroducing Ghost Risers
CNC-Billet Style, Improved Control
ew for 2026, Magnum is raising the bar with the launch of its CNC-billet Ghost Risers. Designed around a smooth, flowing arc and precision weight-saving cutouts, the Ghost Riser blends aggressive performance with clean, modern style.
Magnum’s new Ghost Risers use CNC-billet 6061 aluminum, flowing lines and multiple fitment options to give customers clean style, comfort and cockpit flexibility.
Available in 8-inch and 10-inch heights with 1½ inches of pullback, Ghost Risers are built to dial in comfort across a wide range of riding styles, especially when paired with Magnum’s 4-inch or 6-inch Mach 1.25 moto bars. Whether your customers are running an M8 Softail with a digital gauge, a traditional tank-mounted gauge, 1-inch handlebars, or 1¼-inch bars, Magnum has a configuration that fits.
“These risers give you a really clean look that stands out from your typical performance riser,” says Magnum’s Reese Hurwitz.
Ghost Risers are offered in chrome, polished black-anodized, or contrast-cut finishes, making it easy to complement the black-and-chrome details already on your customers’ bikes. Each set is machined from a solid block of 6061 aluminum, delivering the premium feel, durability, and precision for which Magnum is known.
Designed for bikes without a Batwing fairing and featuring a standard 3½-inch fork center-to-center width, Ghost Risers are as versatile as they are refined.
Beyond the Ghost Risers, Magnum’s 2026 lineup expands to include several new chrome plated and black anodized banjo bolt styles, upgraded clutch cables featuring a clean chrome adjuster cover to fully conceal two-piece cables, metal adjuster housings for quick-connect cables, and the latest fitments across the board. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and check out the FatBook and www.dragspecialties.com.
PPacking Up Cruiser Luggage for Ultimate Versatility
icking the right route for a journey can be a challenge, but choosing the luggage for it is easy with NelsonRigg’s Route 1 Cruiser Collection. The 12-piece collection is designed to provide an option for every kind of ride, and names like Day Trip, Weekender, Getaway, Destination and Traveler give hints on the sizes of each piece.
These universal luggage pieces mount to a variety of spots on a bike, like the tank, sissy-bar, backrest, seat and Tour-Pak. There are Road Trip saddlebags, too. Riders can pick one piece or mix and match for the perfect setup, like combining the tank-mounted cell phone holder with the Getaway bag.
This versatility allows dealers to fit virtually every Cruiser customer by stocking this one line of luggage.
Like all Nelson-Rigg luggage, each Route 1 piece is covered by a Lifetime Warranty that includes no-fade or color change because the company makes their own proprietary Ultramax material.
Each Route 1 luggage piece comes with a 100 percent waterproof rain cover, with the exception of the luggage designed for the cutest passenger, the Rover Pet Carrier.
The success of the Route 1 collection is due to the Nelson-Rigg team listening to what riders want. “It’s the 10th anniversary of the Route 1 collection, and it keeps on going,” says Nelson-Rigg’s Deb Drinan. “We keep adding to the line based on rider feedback.” ■
» Get more details from your Drag rep about the Route 1 Cruiser Collection and find it all in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Nelson-Rigg’s Route 1 Traveler gives Cruiser riders flexible storage for longer trips, with universal mounting, durable construction and a waterproof rain cover.
RTurn Racing Support into Sales
The BRL Connection
acing support gives dealers a direct way to tie customers’ interest in a product to real-world performance. DP Brakes has been involved with the Bagger Racing League since the series began, building visibility as the Official Brake Sponsor, as well as supporting many of the teams and riders in the series.
DP Brakes also supports Alloy Art, FTR Foundation, Speed Farm, Suburban Harley-Davidson, Team A Plus Performance Cycle, Trask, and Tucker Speed Team, plus Drag Specialties reps Matt Maldonado and Joe Sanderson, along with former rep Mike Coury.
This level of involvement in the BRL offers dealers a great opportunity at the sales counter with their V-Twin customers who pay close attention to the parts being used in racing. It gives a dealer’s sales staff a direct link between the BRL series and the products used on the race bikes.
“Being involved in BRL has really stepped up our game as far as performance in our braking and clutch components we sell to our customers,” says Larry Mills, President, DP Brakes and Clutches, North America. “The feedback has
been tremendous, but we are always working on improving. Those riders and teams give us results and then we send those results back to the factory for us to improve on.”
Those teams that your customers are following are using DP Brakes’ High Performance RDP Titanium Road Race Pads. That gives dealers a clear product story tied to competition use in the BRL and helps reinforce the brand’s visibility in the series. Some teams and riders are also using DP’s High Quality Performance Clutch Kits, giving dealers another product category to discuss with customers. ■
» For more information, contact your Drag Specialties rep and check out the FatBook and www.dragspecialties.com.
Shawn Hoffman puts DP Brakes products to the test in BRL competition, giving dealers a race-proven brand story to share.
GStaying Power
A Seat that Never Goes Out of Style
ood things tend to stick around for a long time, and that has certainly been the case with the Signature II 2-piece seat from LePera Motorcycle Seats. An original design by late company founder Bob LePera, Sr., this seat has been a hot seller since the 1970s.
For riders who have a passenger, the Signature II solo seat isn’t enough. This 2-piece option provides ample seating for both the rider and passenger, with 10 inches of width for the driver and 6 inches for the passenger.
Both the Signature II solo and 2-piece seats are designed for rigid motorcycles, and they are a great example of LePera’s original design style. This timeless setup for rider and passenger gives a rigid that true chopper stance –clean, dialed-in, and ready to finish a bike up just right.
LePera’s specially formulated highdensity Marathon foam gives the seat its shape and comfort. Underneath, the powder-coated steel base plate is carpeted for a perfect fit and finish.
Every LePera seat is handmade in the USA, using the same methods in place when the Signature II originally debuted. As Christine LePera says, “They say they don’t make them like they used to, but the Signature II is still built like we used to, just like all of our seats.”
The Signature II has been popular for over 50 years, and it’s not going anywhere, thanks to its classic styling and premium craftsmanship. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep about the classic Signature II 2-piece seat from LePera and find it in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
LePera’s Signature II 2-piece seat delivers classic rigid-bike style.
Can You Hear Me Now?
Factory Finish Meets Powerful Sound
Baggers are built for the long haul, and riders expect comfort, style and power to go along for the ride. KICKER adds another piece to that package with audio designed for Road Glide and Street Glide models.
KICKER’s fairing audio upgrade kits are exactly as described – an upgrade, and a major one at that. The OE infotainment and audio equipment has come a long way, but KICKER has been maximizing sound for decades and that know-how is audible with these model-specific, fine-tuned kits.
Each kit is specifically designed for the seamless fit and detailed sound customers expect from KICKER. It includes two speakers, an amplifier, a plug-and-play wiring harness and all the necessary mounting hardware, so music can be heard crisp and clear, blasting through wind and road noise.
“KICKER fairing audio kits are designed to deliver headturning sound with factory-level fit and finish,” says Lori Boyer, Regional Sales Manager for KICKER. “Whether you’re installing for customers in service or they’re doing it in their garage, there’s no cutting or drilling. Everything
KICKER fairing audio upgrade kits deliver plug-and-play sound for Road Glide and Street Glide models, with no cutting or drilling.
is 100 percent plug and play, down to integration with factory radios.”
Fairing audio upgrade kits from KICKER cover over 20 years of Harley-Davidson Touring models, including Street Glides and Road Glides from 1996 to 2023. Help your customers make the most of their time spent in the saddle. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more info, and check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Quick Cleanup
Sleek Looks with an Internal Throttle Cable
Cleaning up the look of a V-Twin’s handlebars can be as easy as hiding the throttle cable. With the internal throttle cable from Müller Motorcycle, a bike gets an instant upgrade in looks.
The Teflon-coated Bowden throttle cable has a doublesided ball bearing design that ensures smooth operation of the cable. It is manufactured with accuracy measuring just hundredths of a millimeter to minimize play, and the
throttle adjustment screw allows the rider to set just the right amount of play for their style.
The Müller Motorcycle internal throttle cable can be used on a variety of handlebar lengths, making this a great choice for custom builders who want a clean, sleek look. Measuring an impressive 53 inches long, the cable even works with tall Z-bars and ape hangers. Since the internal throttle cable is designed to work with all handlebars with a 1-inch grip area and cable passage, it’s a virtually universal fitment.
“By eliminating the two external throttle cables, our system creates a much cleaner front end that enhances the overall harmony of any custom bike,” explains Müller Motorcycle
CEO Fabian Müller. “At the same time, the engineering behind our internal throttle is so refined that riders won’t notice any difference compared to the original throttle feel. We combine a sleek, minimalist look with a highly sophisticated and reliable construction.” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details about the internal throttle cable from Müller Motorcycle. Find it in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Heavyweight Control
Fade-Resistant Stopping for Touring Bikes
Weight is a crucial factor in the motorcycle world, and riders feel it every time they get on the bike. Touring bikes and Baggers are built for comfort, but with weights nearing 1,000 pounds, riders also need the confidence to slow down and stop when it counts. That’s where EBC Brakes’ V-Pads come in.
“EBC V-Pads are built for the torque and weight of V-twin tourers and baggers, delivering confident bite, modulation and fade-resistant stopping power mile after mile,” says Gareth Preston, Senior Technical Advisor & Quality Administrator at EBC Brakes. “Whether descending mountain passes or cruising highways, they offer durability, control and braking performance that fuels the freedom of the open road.”
EBC V-Pads combine the endurance and performance of a sintered pad with the best qualities of an organic compound pad. These semi-sintered pads have been dyno tested and shown to deliver longevity and consistency, backing those performance claims with real-world data.
EBC Brakes’ V-Pads deliver confident bite, fade-resistant stopping power and lasting control for Touring bikes and Baggers carrying serious weight.
EBC has also added extra peace of mind to its organic brake pad line by incorporating Nucap NRS technology, a hook retention system that the company says eliminates the chance of the brake pad de-bonding from the backing plate.
For riders who want a brake pad designed for the demands of Touring and Bagger riding, EBC V-Pads are built for the job. ■
» Talk to your Drag rep for more details or check them out in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
A Smarter Stock Replacement New Lifter
Cuffs for Milwaukee-Eights
Feuling Parts has developed new lifter cuffs for Harley-Davidson MilwaukeeEight engines. They had found that some billet options could increase lifter rotation, scoring and wear from rubbing against the steel lifter flats
Feuling’s new lifter cuffs are injection molded glass-filled nylon with Teflon added to increase wear and friction resistance. The result is a stock-replacement cuff designed for added strength and reduced friction.
“We’ve added compounds such as Teflon & glass fill to make our lifter cuffs better, stronger and account for higher lift camshafts with increased clearance,” says Luke Leatherman, president, Feuling Parts. “Feuling cuffs hold the lifters nice and snug eliminating any rotating and potential for lifter damage.”
Feuling’s new lifter cuffs use glass-filled nylon with Teflon to reduce friction, increase strength and keep lifters snug.
In M8 engines, problematic billet cuffs can allow excessive lifter rotation/rocking, which can lead to axle/roller failure
as the lifter is naturally trying to roll off the camshaft lobe. It only takes a few degrees of rotation for the lifter roller to stop spinning. While Feuling recommends using the cuffs with its own lifters for the tightest fit, they are also compatible with other branded lifters. Feuling’s lifter cuffs also offer increased clearances for larger camshafts, including Feuling’s 618 camshaft without modification.
One important install note: The lifter cuff may hold the lifter upward, so users should firmly push down on the lifter to ensure it is on the camshaft before installing or adjusting pushrods. The lifter should have a light-slip-to-snug fit in the cuff. Torque to 96 in.-lbs. and use red Loctite.
Feuling’s M8 lifter cuff sets include ARP fasteners and wedge lock washers. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep for details, and learn more in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Comfort and Style K25 Grips Help Reduce Hand Fatigue
Avon Grips’ new K25 grips for 1-inch diameter handlebars come in six versions, all made of billet aluminum and Kraton rubber featuring a super soft, tacky and durable surface designed to help reduce hand fatigue.
For cable-operated throttles, the K25-CH grips feature a closed end, diamondknurled, no flange design with a chrome finish while the K25-ANO grips are similarly designed but with an anodized black finish.
For throttle-by-wire applications, the K25-CH-FLY grips feature a closed end, diamond-knurled, no flange design with a chrome finish while the K25-ANO-FLY grips are similarly designed but with an anodized black finish. Also designed for throttle-by-wire applications, the K25-CH-F24 is a closed-end, diamond-knurled, no
flange grip in a chrome finish while the K25-ANO-F24 is a closed-end, diamond-knurled, no flange grip in a black anodized finish.
Known for their comfort, durability and unique designs, Avon Grips have long been a popular choice for motorcycle riders. Over the years the company has introduced innovative features such as air cushioning to dampen vibrations and heated grips for cooler riding conditions. Today, Avon offers a wide array of grips for various types of motorcycles. Avon’s motorcycle grips are handcrafted in the U.S., with the company based in Kingwood, Texas. Talk to them in person at the Louisville NVP. ■
» Ask your Drag rep for more details, and learn more in the FatBook, the OldBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
Avon Grips’ K25 grips are built for comfort and provide a nice touch of style.
Service Solution
Fork Cap Sockets for Harleys
Specialty tools make a job easier and quicker, but they can also help protect a motorcycle from damage. The updated Harley-Davidson fork cap sockets from Motion Pro do all of those things.
The 39mm and 41mm fork cap sockets, as well as the fork cap hex tool, are all designed for use on Harleys. The fork cap hex tool is ideal for Harley Touring models with 49mm forks.
Previously, these pieces were constructed from steel, but they are now machined from 6061-T6 aluminum. The chrome details on a set of forks can be easy to mar, and Motion Pro took this into consideration when it came to the choice of material. Aluminum is a softer metal, which helps protect the fork caps during loosening or tightening. Additionally, O-rings provide a soft barrier to help further protect the forks.
Each piece is light yet durable, with a brilliant blue anodized finish that makes these small pieces easy to spot on a workbench. They pair well with Motion Pro’s popular pivot vise to make suspension service easier.
“Motion Pro tools are built to perform, and that’s why dealers trust them,” says Kyle Northend, Motion Pro Director of Sales and Marketing. “When customers have a great experience, it reflects directly on the dealer and, by extension, on Motion Pro. We are building trust that drives repeat business.” ■
» Talk to your Drag rep to learn more about Motion Pro tools for V-Twin suspensions. You can find them all in the Tire & Service catalog and at www.dragspecialties.com.
THE RIGHT TOOLS
Motion Pro’s updated HarleyDavidson fork cap tools use 6061-T6 aluminum and O-rings to help speed service and protect chrome.
GM8 Muscle
Big-Bore Piston Kits for More Power
ood looks will only get you so far. Riders who want a performance edge know that, sometimes, the best aftermarket mods are the ones you can’t see. A set of KB Performance Super Duty big-bore pistons for Milwaukee-Eight motors will amp up the power while providing consistent performance and durability.
The Super Duty Series Piston Kits for M8s include 4.125˝ and 4.250˝ bore sizes. To get maximum performance gains, the pistons are made using the latest in both production processes and materials.
“Whether it’s a case of needing a power increase for your fully loaded-down Bagger or just bragging rights, adding cubic inches with these Big Bore kits is an economical and effective choice,” says UEM’s Marko Glush.
The crown and top ring groove have a type-3 hard anodized finish, which gives the ring a hard surface to rotate on and ensures an outstanding ring seal. The premium ring sets also create a good seal and extend service life thanks to the steel used in their construction. Plus, the wrist pins
KB Performance Super Duty big-bore pistons give Milwaukee-Eight engines added cubic inches, durable construction and reliable sealing for stronger performance.
have a thicker wall to accommodate the demands of the M8 engine.
Parent company United Engine & Machine Co. (UEM Pistons) equips its KB Performance Super Duty pistons with its proprietary Line2Line Abradable skirt coating. The coating abrades to provide a perfect fit in each cylinder, preventing oil from escaping and eliminating mechanical noise. ■
» Talk with your Drag rep about KB Performance Super Duty piston kits in overbore sizes for M8 engines. You can find them in the FatBook and at www.dragspecialties.com.
DRAG SPECIALTIES SEATS
EXTENDED REACH PREDATOR III 2-UP SEAT
» High-quality automotive-grade vinyl cover
» Extended reach is 1.0˝ back on FLTRX and FLHX when measured against stock
» Seat cover material is made from Slip Stop™ high-quality PVC material designed with gripping qualities to reduce slippage in the seating area and high-quality automotive-grade vinyl on the sides
» Features a 6 1/4˝ tall driver support with unique styling
» Molded polyurethane foam for maximum comfort and styling
» Seat is made narrow up front for better leg clearance
» 3/16˝ ABS thermoformed seat base for a perfect fit, with a carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers to protect paint
» Fits with all Drag and most H-D sissy bars
» Dimensions: 29 1/2˝ L overall (12˝ W front) (9˝ W rear)
FUEL CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLIES
» Includes check valve, required fittings and line
» Meets or exceeds OEM requirements
» For Delphi EFI systems only
REAR TURN SIGNALS
» Direct replacement for the OEM
» Install using OEM hardware
» Black housing with choice of clear or smoke signal lens
» Amber LEDs
» Sold in pairs
DRAG SPECIALTIES/GILLES
ADJUSTABLE
MALE MOUNT FOOTPEGS
» CNC milled 6082 T6 aluminum
» Fully adjustable angle for ideal comfort
» Sold in pairs
NOTE: Pin clevis OEM #45041-01A not included.
CUSTOM DYNAMICS
PROBEAM® LED SQUAREBACK TAILLIGHTS
» Advanced LED technology significantly boosts brightness and visibility, ensuring you’re seen from greater distances and wider angles
» State-of-the-art LEDs are brighter and more durable than stock incandescent bulbs offering a longer lifespan and low power draw
» Running light pipes wrap towards the taillight edges to improve side visibility for added safety, both day and night
» Full contrast brake and turn LEDs illuminate instantly, providing clear signaling to other drivers and demanding attention when braking or turning
» Designed and tested for durability against vibration, moisture and harsh road conditions
» Simple, hassle-free installation; two screws and one connector per taillight with no cutting or splicing required
» Sold in pairs
LEGEND SUSPENSION
AXEO 47 COMFORT FRONT SUSPENSION
» Fully customizable suspension, engineered for riders who demand control; easily dial in suspension settings to match your exact riding style and conditions
» Split Function Cartridge Design; the right fork controls the compression damping and the left fork controls the rebound damping, allowing you to fine-tune each function independently for ultimate precision
» Tool-free compression and rebound adjustments
» External preload adjuster enables easy tuning for different rider weights with included adjustment tool
» Legend’s comfort touring spring rate provides improved small bump compliance, superior ride quality, as well as increased resistance to bottoming for all-day comfort
» Maintains stock cornering clearance and minimizes dragging floorboards
» Ride quality is smooth and controlled with improved stability, cornering, and traction; increases resistance to bottoming out on large bumps or potholes
» Designed for optimum performance with all Legend’s rear suspensions
» Includes two mono-tube, dual-chambered damper cartridges and preload adjustment tool
» Specifically designed to retain factory ride height on FL touring models
» Designed to be used with stock diameter front wheels
» Available only in standard length
NOTE: This product is NOT designed for use with 21˝ and 23˝ wheels.
PART
LE PERA
TAILWHIP SEATS
» Takes the Le Pera Kickflip design one step further
» If it’s more comfort for the passenger or just another platform to let your adventurous side explore, the whipped-up tail will give you what you are looking for
» Molded Marathon Foam
» Black Biker Tec custom cover (unless noted)
» Double diamond stitch pattern
» Driver seating 12.25˝ W; passenger seating 7˝ W
» Highly detailed powdercoated steel carpeted base
» Made in the U.S.A.
KHROME WERKS
ICON SR 2-INTO-2 EXHAUST SYSTEMS
» Engineered for performance, style and sound
» Improves torque and horsepower
» Removes OEM catalytic converter from the header pipe to reduce heat and improve rider comfort
» Fits directly under factory heat shields to maintain OEM styling
» 18 and 12 mm O2 bungs welded into header primaries for stock or tuning applications
» 16-gauge 1.75˝ primaries
» Uses the existing crossover pipe
» 4.5˝ HP Plus compliant mufflers deliver Khrome Werks signature aggressive sound
» End caps sold separately
» Tune the sound and performance with optional Khrome Werks Cone Reducers and Sound kits (sold separately)
» Made in the U.S.A.
ARLEN NESS
POP-UP GAS CAP ASSEMBLIES
» Utilizes factory venting system for factory function with a custom look
» Includes CNC-machined base and removable Pop-Up gas cap
» Drastically easier to refuel gas tank because factory gas caps open from one side only, resulting in limited fill angles and having to adjust the handlebars
» Billet aluminum construction
» Premium Viton® seals for resistance to high temperature and long-term durability
» Sold each
TRASK PERFORMANCE
DERBY COVER AND POWER PLATE COMBO KITS
» Includes billet aluminum derby cover with an acrylic see-through window and Trask Power Plate clutch upgrade
» Power Plate replaces stock clutch pressure plate with a stronger billet version
» Includes upgraded springs to handle up to 200 hp with stock clutch pack
» Prevents clutch slippage resulting from motor upgrades
» Derby cover offers custom styling with precision-machined finish
» Bolt-on installation with hardware included
» Made in the U.S.A.
SLYFOX
HIGHNOON 2-UP SEATS
» Features a 7 1/2˝ tall driver support with unique styling (as noted)
» Made from Slip Stop™ high-quality PVC material in the seating area and high-quality automotive-grade vinyl on the sides
» Slip Stop high-quality PVC material is designed with gripping qualities to reduce slippage
» Double Diamond stitch pattern
» Molded polyurethane foam for maximum comfort and styling
» 3/16˝ ABS thermoformed seat base for a perfect fit, with a carpeted bottom and rubber bumpers to protect paint
» Includes all mounting hardware
» Dimensions: 31˝ L overall; 11 1/2˝ W front, 7˝ W rear
» Made in the U.S.A.
PART # DESCRIPTION SUG. RETAIL FOR 97-07 FLHR, 06-07 FLHX
0801-2148
CHROME
1107-0768
1107-0771
BLACK THREAD
GRAY THREAD
1107-0770
1107-0772
BLACK ANODIZED
Built to precise standards with the finest materials
FREEDOM TOURING SEAT FOR FLRT AND FLTRT TRIKE MODELS
The new Freedom Touring seat features a 5 ¾” tall driver support with unique styling. Seating area is contoured for maximum comfort and is made narrow up front for better leg clearance. The seat works with our EZ Glide frame-mounted receiver mechanism (part #0822-0163, sold separately) to accept our driver backrest assemblies. It will also work with H-D® OEM frame-mounted backrest mechanism and backrest pad.
Available in Smooth or Double Diamond stitch, black thread Solar-Reflective leather, Smooth vinyl or vinyl with Double Diamond stitch in black or red thread. See the complete selection at seats.dragspecialties.com. Additional coverings, thread colors and stitch patterns are available through our custom order program.