NVP IN MKE
Twice As Good!
DEALER PROFILE
Hay Days With East Central Sports
VALE
Godspeed John Penton
News By Category
News
Polaris Inc. just announced its decision to “separate Indian Motorcycle from its portfolio and into a standalone business.”
The 2022 Rallye du Maroc winner Skyler Howes was just 35 seconds behind his teammate Ricky Brabec in the fast, open farm tracks of the Prologue.
Ricky Brabec Wins The Prologue, Sets The Stage For The Rallye du Maroc
Rally legend Ricky Brabec set the pace as the Rallye du Maroc officially got underway today with a 19-kilometer Prologue around the city of Fez.
Shifting Gears
Back in the saddle: BAKER Drivetrain has engaged V-Twin industry veteran James Simonelli to drive innovation at the industry leader in American-made motorcycle drivetrains.
“My job is helping dealerships win with co-op and marketing that moves units,” says Carl Peshoff the new Director of Powersports at Corkboard Concepts. Peshoff came to DealerConnect to spread the word that he had officially joined Corkboard Concepts.
Promoting from within: Matt Heitmann — chief marketing officer for Scott USA — is moving up the ladder and going global!
Just before new CEO Artie Starrs starts on October 1, Harley-Davidson, Inc. has appointed two new independent directors, Daniel Nova and Matt Reintjes to its Board of Directors effective September 15, 2025.
“After four incredible years, it’s time for me to say goodbye to LiveWire,” says Lead Industrial Designer John McInnis.
BREAKING DEALER NEWS: Polaris Inc. Sells Indian Motorcycle! Polaris Inc. just announced its decision to "separate Indian Motorcycle from its portfolio and into a standalone business." According to the media release, "The Company has entered into a definitive agreement to sell a majority stake in Indian Motorcycle to Carolwood LP, an independent private equity firm founded in 2014 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California. Indian Motorcycle contributed approximately $478 million, or 7.0%, of Polaris’ revenues for the trailing twelve-month period ended June 30, 2025." “Polaris and Indian Motorcycle both stand to benefit from this deal, which will enable each business to move faster, deliver industry-leading innovation, and lean further into our respective market strengths,” said Polaris Chief Executive Officer Mike Speetzen. “For Polaris, the sale will further strengthen our focus on the areas of our portfolio that offer the strongest growth potential and allow us to accelerate investments in key initiatives and create wins with customers and dealers. It also will unlock greater long-term value for Polaris and our shareholders, with immediate value creation that we expect will become increasingly meaningful over time.” Speetzen continued, “Under Polaris’ ownership and investment, Indian Motorcycle has been re-established as a celebrated brand and major player in the global motorcycle market. With its current product portfolio, global dealer network, category expertise and manufacturing resources, the Business is well positioned to succeed as a standalone company with a dedicated focus on its industry. We were highly intentional and selective in our search and planning efforts for Indian Motorcycle’s next chapter of growth. In Carolwood, Indian Motorcycle has a partner that believes in building on the Business’ current momentum and supporting its next stage of success. We are confident and committed to making this a seamless transition for Indian Motorcycle dealers, customers and employees.”
CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK Preston Campbell moves up to 13th after Stage #1 of the Rallye du Maroc. Baja legend Johnny Campbell’s son is a chip off the old block, says Dealernews’ resident Rally expert Scot Harden. “I’ve been following the Rally du Maroc the last couple of days. I have a close affection for racing in Morocco as the Rally de Atlas was my first rally experience back in 1987. The following year i finished 2nd overall, top American against Europe’s best "This year I’m following the Americans and in particular young Preston Campbell. After today’s first long stage Ricky Brabec lies 5th overall, Skyler Howes 10 in 6th and Preston in 13th. Given how competitive it is right now and the level of talent it’s great to see Preston doing so well out of the gate. Wishing all the Americans a safe ride. Go #85!”
HOWES ABOUT THAT The 2022 Rallye du Maroc winner Skyler Howes was just 35 seconds behind his teammate Ricky Brabec in the fast, open farm tracks of the Prologue. However, the short stage proved to be far from straightforward, featuring steep climbs, ditches and a shallow river crossing that demanded precision and focus from all riders. Mistakes could easily cost valuable seconds, making concentration key throughout the winding, technical course. “The prologue was a bit different to what we expected,” explains Howes. “They were telling us very slippery tracks with lots of cliffs and it turned out to be really big, rolling farm fields which was actually really nice, so we got a bit more traction than I expected. I had a clean run, made some bike adjustments, too, I rode a bit tight out there but I enjoyed the stage a lot. I’m happy to start and now looking forward to making our way out to the open desert tomorrow.” Stage 1 will cover a total of 780 kilometres, including 300 kilometres of timed special, as competitors head east from Fez to Erfoud. The route will take riders into the heart of Morocco’s desert terrain, setting the stage for an intense week of racing and navigation challenges.
Ricky Brabec Wins The Prologue, Sets The Stage For The Rallye du Maroc "First day in Morocco is good, got the win of the Prologue which is really nice,” said Brabec. “Got good confidence for the bike with the team moving forward… We’re happy and I think we have a good spot for tomorrow to choose from, so let the racing begin.” Later today, riders will select their starting positions for tomorrow’s demanding opening stage. With Brabec being the final rider to choose, his decision could play a strategic role in the days ahead. Stage 1 will cover a total of 780 kilometres, including 300 kilometres of timed special, as competitors head east from Fez to Erfoud. The route will take riders into the heart of Morocco’s desert terrain, setting the stage for an intense week of racing and navigation challenges.
BRABEC DUSTS THE COMPETITION IN MOROCCO! Rally legend Ricky Brabec set the pace as the Rallye du Maroc officially got underway today with a 19-kilometer Prologue around the city of Fez. The 2X Dakar Rally winner piloted his Honda CRF450 RALLY around the short Prologue stage in 12 minutes and 48 seconds. Despite eating dust and suffering arm-pump, Monster Energy Honda HRC teammate Tosha Schareina finished just one second adrift of Brabec’s leading time.
In Case You Missed It
With the 85th Anniversary on hand, the annual Sturgis Rally was one for the record books.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame reports that the 2025 Rally was its most successful to date, with record-breaking attendance, sales, and community support.
Windy City Motorcycle Company, one of the largest Harley-Davidson dealership groups in the Midwest, has been bought by “legendary” leaders Marc Ingwersen and Jerry Carillo, owners of Legendary Harley-Davidson Dealer Group.
MotoE Championship Paused, But Ducati To Persist With EV Development
