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Harley-Davidson's leadership team has faced renewed criticism from conservative activist Robby Starbuck, who led a high-profile campaign against the company's diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in 2024. The controversy has sparked a heated debate within the motorcycle industry, with some dealers publicly supporting CEO Artie Starrs and others questioning his leadership. As the situation continues to unfold, Harley-Davidson dealers have come together to show their support for Starrs and the company's current leadership team. The National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA) Harley-Davidson Council has issued a public statement backing CEO Artie Starrs, citing improved communication with dealers and a focus on strengthening the dealer network. The council's letter highlights the importance of strong relationships between manufacturers and their dealerships, which is crucial for the success of both parties. The criticism surrounding Starrs' leadership has been fueled by recent executive appointments made under his watch. Starbuck has questioned the backgrounds of several Harley-Davidson executives, arguing that the company has not fully moved away from policies that sparked backlash among some customers two years ago. However, Harley-Davidson has defended its leadership team, stating that Starrs has focused on strengthening the dealer network and core motorcycle business. Indian Motorcycle has entered the conversation, with several conservative influencers criticizing Harley-Davidson while promoting the brand as an alternative American V-twin brand. Indian Motorcycle later released a statement denying allegations that it orchestrated the criticism, but also declined to distance itself from the broader conversation. The controversy has sparked a wider debate about the role of motorcycle manufacturers in society and their relationship with their customers. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Harley-Davidson will respond to the criticism and whether its leadership team can navigate the challenges ahead. Indian Motorcycle's statement marked an unusual direct public exchange between the two iconic American motorcycle brands. The company argued that riders have the right to question Harley-Davidson's decisions and that stronger competition benefits the motorcycle industry. The NPDA Harley-Davidson Council largely avoided the political debate in its letter, instead urging dealers to focus on customers and business performance. This approach highlights the importance of keeping the customer at the forefront of a manufacturer's strategy, particularly during times of controversy. As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that Harley-Davidson faces significant challenges ahead. The company must navigate the criticism and find ways to strengthen its relationships with dealers and customers while also driving business performance. The future of Harley-Davidson remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the company's leadership team must prioritize communication, customer satisfaction, and business performance if it hopes to overcome the current controversy and emerge stronger on the other side.

MotoHunt, a leading powersports appraisal and dealer marketing platform, has recently launched two innovative tools designed to enhance the sales experience for motorcycle and ATV dealers. These new tools focus on providing market insights and streamlining inventory acquisition processes. The first tool, Pricing & Inventory History, offers dealers a comprehensive view of price trends over time, allowing them to make more informed decisions when pricing units or stocking inventory. By tracking various data points such as JD Power average retail values, average dealer pricing, and NPA values across a rolling 12-month timeline, dealers can gain valuable context on market fluctuations. This new tool is particularly useful for managers who need to appraise trades, price units, or decide what to stock next. The trend analysis provides a clearer story than just numbers, enabling dealers to make more confident decisions and stay ahead of the competition. The second tool, NPA Direct Buy Dashboard, offers dealerships a centralized platform to manage and track direct-buy requests submitted through their MotoHunt account. This allows teams to view submitted requests, monitor activity, and keep NPA's buy offers organized without navigating multiple systems. By providing a single place to manage direct-buy requests, these new tools help streamline the sales process and reduce administrative burdens on dealership staff. Dealers can focus on what matters most – providing excellent customer service and driving revenue growth. According to Jacob Berry, co-founder and vice president of growth at MotoHunt, dealers need more than just data; they require actionable insights that enable them to make informed decisions in real-time. The new tools address this need by providing market insights and streamlining inventory acquisition processes. MotoHunt's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is evident in the development of these two cutting-edge tools. By empowering dealers with the right information at the right time, MotoHunt is helping powersports businesses stay competitive and thrive in a rapidly changing market. Both tools are now available to current MotoHunt dealers, who can take advantage of one-on-one walkthroughs to learn how to effectively utilize these new features. This support ensures that dealers can get the most out of their investment and achieve their business goals. As the powersports industry continues to evolve, it's clear that dealers need tools that help them stay ahead of the curve. MotoHunt's new tools are poised to make a significant impact on dealership operations, enabling businesses to focus on what matters most – driving sales growth and customer satisfaction.

The U.S.-based remarketing company, National Powersport Auctions (NPA), is taking its dealer-only auction platform overseas with the launch of NPA Europe in Germany. This move marks the first major European expansion for the company, which has built its business around helping dealers buy and sell pre-owned inventory through live and online auctions. The German operations will serve as a foundation for broader European growth, with additional expansion plans already being developed, including future entry into Spain. NPA believes European retailers face many of the same challenges as their North American counterparts, including inventory aging, market visibility and transportation logistics. NPA's entrance into Europe comes as dealers worldwide continue to focus on used-unit profitability and inventory turn rates following several years of market fluctuations. In North America, pre-owned powersports inventory has become an increasingly important profit center as dealers balance new-unit supply levels and changing consumer demand. At the core, it's about helping dealers operate more efficiently and profitably,

Turn 14 Distribution has strengthened its powersports product lineup by partnering with Elektric Offroad Designs, a leading manufacturer of UTV accessories. The addition provides dealers with access to a wider range of protection, storage, and utility solutions for the SxS market. This expansion is expected to cater to the increasing demand for aftermarket products among UTV enthusiasts. Elektric Offroad Designs offers a diverse product catalog that covers several high-volume platforms, including Polaris, Can-Am, and Kawasaki models. The company's focus on developing new applications alongside OEM vehicle launches enables dealers to quickly support customers purchasing the latest-generation SxSs. The partnership is significant as it provides dealers with another option in a category that continues to see consistent consumer interest. UTV aftermarket products have become increasingly important for dealership revenue, particularly among customers seeking to personalize their vehicles for recreation and utility purposes. The growing demand for bolt-on accessories that enhance protection, storage capacity, and vehicle capability is driving the expansion of the UTV accessory market. Dealers are responding by offering a wider range of solutions to cater to this demand. Turn 14 Distribution has been steadily expanding its powersports offerings in recent years as it builds out its dealer inventory. This latest partnership is part of its efforts to provide dealers with comprehensive products and services that meet the evolving needs of UTV enthusiasts. The Elektric Offroad Designs partnership marks a significant milestone for Turn 14 Distribution, which has established itself as a leading player in the powersports industry. The company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is evident in its strategic partnerships and product offerings. As the UTV market continues to grow, dealers will benefit from having access to a broader range of aftermarket products. This expansion is expected to drive sales and revenue for dealerships, particularly among customers seeking high-quality protection and storage solutions. The partnership between Turn 14 Distribution and Elektric Offroad Designs demonstrates the importance of collaboration in driving industry growth. By working together, these companies can better serve UTV enthusiasts and provide them with innovative products that meet their needs. The addition of Elektric Offroad Designs to Turn 14 Distribution's portfolio is a testament to the company's commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Dealers will benefit from having access to a wider range of UTV accessories, which will enable them to better serve their customers and drive sales revenue.

The motorcycle industry has witnessed significant changes over the past few decades, with shifting consumer preferences and technological advancements playing a crucial role. In response to these changes, dealerships have been consolidating and adapting to remain competitive. A recent example of this trend is the consolidation of Bull Run Harley-Davidson in Manassas, Virginia. The sellers, Lindsay Automotive Group, has been family-owned and operated since 1963. Bull Run Harley-Davidson was established in 2017 following Lindsay’s acquisition of Whitt’s Harley-Davidson. The dealership's closure is a significant development in the region, with Patriot Harley-Davidson in Fairfax, Virginia set to take over its operations. According to Performance Brokerage Services, the sellers engaged George and his team to facilitate the closure of the dealership and work with Paul Veracka of Patriot Harley-Davidson. This strategic move is expected to strengthen Patriot's position in the region and expand its market share. Patriot Harley-Davidson, owned by PVM Enterprises, has been a prominent player in the motorcycle industry for decades. The company was founded by Paul Veracka, who joined the family business at the age of 4 and later took on a leadership role. Today, Veracka owns and operates PVM Enterprises, which is the largest Harley-Davidson dealer group on the east coast. Over the last 5 years, Performance Brokerage Services has advised on the sale of nearly 450 dealerships, making it the highest volume dealership brokerage firm in North America. This expertise will be crucial in facilitating future transactions and supporting dealerships in their transition to new ownership. The Harley-Davidson & Powersports Division for PBS played an exclusive role in advising on the sale of Bull Run Harley-Davidson. The division's partners, George Chaconas and Juan Pardo, brought extensive knowledge and expertise to the transaction. Industry observers note that dealership consolidation is a common trend in the motorcycle industry. As consumers increasingly prioritize convenience and experience, dealerships are adapting by consolidating operations and investing in new technologies. The impact of this consolidation will be felt across the region, with Bull Run Harley-Davidson's closure marking the end of an era for the local community. Patriot Harley-Davidson's expansion into the area is expected to bring new opportunities for customers and employees alike. As the motorcycle industry continues to evolve, dealerships must remain agile and responsive to changing consumer needs. This consolidation serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in the face of uncertainty.

Moto Morini has expanded its adventure lineup with a new 2027 X-Cape 1200 motorcycle. The bike features a Corsa Corta EVO 87-degree V-twin engine producing 129 horsepower and 78.2 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is paired with a suite of advanced electronics, including cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and cruise control. Designed in Italy, the X-Cape 1200 boasts a tubular steel trellis frame and aluminum cast components, providing a strong foundation for its adventure-focused design. The motorcycle's low-slung 6.5-gallon fuel tank helps centralize mass and improve handling characteristics both on- and off-road. Adventure-focused equipment includes tubeless spoked wheels and Pirelli Scorpion Trail III tires, making it well-suited for long-distance travel. The X-Cape 1200 features fully adjustable KYB suspension front and rear, including 48mm inverted forks and a rear shock with progressive linkage. With a dry weight of 523 pounds, the bike offers impressive handling and agility on both paved and unpaved roads. Heated grips, heated rider and passenger seats, full LED lighting, and a 7-inch TFT display are just a few of the premium features included in the X-Cape 1200. The new motorcycle arrives as competition in the adventure-touring segment continues to intensify, offering Moto Morini dealers another value-focused option. Moto Morini's new offering is a strong contender in the adventure segment, but will it be enough to take on established brands like BMW and Ducati? With its impressive power output and advanced rider-assistance technology, the X-Cape 1200 is sure to attract attention from adventure enthusiasts and motorcycle purists alike. The X-Cape 1200's price point of $12,999 makes it an attractive option for those looking for a premium adventure motorcycle without breaking the bank.

The partnership between Cardo Systems' off-road vehicle division and Tread Lightly! aims to protect access to public lands and promote responsible off-road practices. By drawing attention to the need for communications that support trail use, education, and environmental stewardship, the collaboration underscores Cardo's commitment to preserving the outdoor experience. Cardo Systems' growing off-road vehicle division has partnered with Tread Lightly! to educate the off-road community on responsible riding practices, trail conservation, and sustainable recreation habits. This collaboration will help minimize environmental impact while protecting access to trails and public lands. At Cardo, we believe the outdoor experience is something worth protecting and that trail stewardship is essential to the long-term future of off-road recreation,

Cardo Systems, a leading manufacturer of wireless communication systems for powersports enthusiasts, has announced a new partnership with Tread Lightly!, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor recreation. The collaboration aims to educate the off-road community on safe and environmentally conscious riding practices. The partnership underscores Cardo's commitment to protecting access to public lands and supporting the future of off-road recreation by drawing attention to the critical need for communications to promote responsible trail use, education for all OHV users, and environmental stewardship. By working together, Cardo Systems' growing off-road vehicle division and Tread Lightly! will help minimize environmental impact while protecting access to trails and public lands. The collaboration between Cardo Systems ORV and Tread Lightly! is a significant step towards promoting responsible off-road recreation. The partnership supports stewardship projects and educational initiatives designed to encourage safe and environmentally conscious adventures, further solidifying the importance of communication in achieving sustainable outdoor recreation. At Cardo, we believe the outdoor experience is something worth protecting and that trail stewardship is essential to the long-term future of off-road recreation,

Each year, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) hosts its annual Congressional Ride to Work Day event in Washington, D.C., bringing together lawmakers, industry leaders, and motorcycle advocacy groups. The event is scheduled to coincide with International Motorcycle & Scooter Ride to Work Day, a nationwide initiative that encourages riders to commute by motorcycle or scooter. By doing so, the AMA aims to promote motorcycles as a practical transportation option that can help reduce congestion, require less parking space, and consume fewer resources than automobiles. The event provides an opportunity for members of Congress to engage directly with industry stakeholders and rider advocacy organizations, fostering a stronger connection between lawmakers and the motorcycling community. This year's participating lawmakers included several prominent representatives from both parties, including Reps. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.), Troy Balderson (R-Ohio), and Donald Norcross (D-N.J.). The day began with members of Congress riding motorcycles to the Capitol before returning to Eastern Market, where they met with motorcycle industry executives and rider advocates. The group later participated in an escorted ride through Washington, D.C., led by the National Park Police. Industry leaders played a crucial role in making this event possible, providing motorcycles for participants courtesy of Harley-Davidson and Buell. Representatives from several industry and advocacy organizations attended, including Backcountry Discovery Routes, the Motorcycle Industry Council, Motorcycle Riders Foundation, and Motorcycle Safety Foundation. The event comes just weeks after more than 70 powersports industry representatives traveled to Washington for the annual Powersports Capitol Hill Fly-In, where tariffs, land access, trail funding, and PFAS regulations were among the key issues discussed with lawmakers. International Motorcycle & Scooter Ride to Work Day was officially observed on June 9, marking its 35th year. The annual event encourages riders to commute by motorcycle or scooter to raise public awareness of two-wheeled transportation and promote motorcycles as a practical transportation option. The initiative promotes motorcycles as a sustainable transportation option that can help reduce congestion, require less parking space, and consume fewer resources than automobiles. According to Ride to Work organizers, riders typically reach their destinations about 20% faster than commuters traveling by car. By uniting with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, the AMA aims to strengthen its advocacy efforts and promote motorcyclist rights. The event highlights the importance of preserving the freedom to ride and promoting sustainable transportation options for all Americans. The success of this event demonstrates the growing recognition of motorcycles as a viable transportation option in the United States. As the motorcycling community continues to advocate for its interests, it is essential that lawmakers remain committed to supporting the industry and its riders.