Industry Press Releases

Seven made-for-TV races without fans airing on NBC, NBCSN will aid in getting the industry back to work The following is an industry press release … ELLENTON, Fla. — Feld Entertainment Inc. announced Thursday that the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, will resume racing at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah on May 31 and will run through June 21. The final seven, made-for-tv races will be broadcast on NBC networks without fans in attendance. The Utah Sports Commission, a longtime partner of Supercross, has coordinated our return to Utah. Like all forms of sports, the Monster Energy Supercross Championship was abruptly halted in early March after completing ten rounds of the 17-round Championship. The last race was held on March 7 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. where Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Eli Tomac earned his fifth win of the season over top rival Team Honda HRC’s Ken Roczen, both of whom are competing for their first premiere class title with only three points of separation. The sports industry in the United States, like virtually all industries, is being severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Monster Energy Supercross fuels an entire industry and is

MotoAmerica to start championship without fans; a second race at Road America, June 26-28, scheduled to include fans The following is an industry press release … IRVINE, Calif. — MotoAmerica, the home of the AMA Superbike Series, has announced that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the Governor of Wisconsin’s safer-at-home order being set to expire on May 26, the racing portion of the opening round of the 2020 MotoAmerica Series, May 29-31, at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, will continue, but without fans. Although Road America and MotoAmerica worked diligently to find an alternative, the task proved impossible due to unknown restrictions that may be placed on public outdoor events. MotoAmerica, however, is planning to return to Road America, June 26-28, along with all previously scheduled activities, including Vintage MotoFest. The June 26-28 event will also feature the MotoAmerica Heritage Cup and the opening round of the Mini Cup by Motul. All five classes of the premier national motorcycle road racing championship in the United States – Superbike, Supersport, Liqui Moly Junior Cup, Stock 1000 and Twins Cup – will compete in the series opener, May 29-31. “We worked hard with Road America to try to make

New time, new focus The following is an industry press release … IRVINE, Calif. — The MIC’s American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) is moving to Jan. 21-23, 2021 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. Previously scheduled for this October, North America’s largest powersports show is changing more than timing; the show will become a trade-only event and emerge as an integral part of the buying season. “Timing is everything,” said Cinnamon Kernes, vice president and general manager of MIC Events. “Transitioning to the first quarter has been part of a long-term strategic plan for AIMExpo, along with providing more focus on our core audience – dealers. These changes not only align the show with the ideal buying time for dealers and retailers, but also provide the perfect opportunity for brands to reconnect with dealers, kicking off what will be a pivotal year for the industry. Additionally, this move to January opens the door to partner with a major distributor in a much more strategic and meaningful way.” A trade-only show allows AIMExpo to concentrate on industry needs and education at a time when powersports needs it most. Quality over quantity is necessary in the new trade show landscape.

The following is an industry press release … The Race Leadership Team has appointed a Safe-to-Race Task Force to manage our sport’s race to recovery. Members of the committee include representatives from AMA, AMA Pro Racing, Feld Entertainment, Ignite Partners, MX Sports Pro Racing, USMA, and others experienced and knowledgeable in motorsports event operations and management. The group also includes event software developers, series managers and a rider representative. The goal of the committee will be to develop best practices for a post-COVID19 motorsports event to be shared with race promoters and event organizers nationwide. The Safe-to-Race Task Force will review current processes and procedures for cash transactions, gate admission, race registration, technical inspection, riders meetings, race procedures, podium celebrations, press conferences, autograph sessions, fan participation and viewing areas, parking and camping areas, etc., and recommend new protocols that focus on protecting the personal health, safety and welfare of athletes, fans and staff. The group will review how to accommodate current social distancing guidelines and identify preventative actions that can be implemented during an event, such as hands-free registration, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and maintaining safe distancing in public areas, as recommended by the CDC. The group will

Experts offer training for aspiring ATV and motorcycle competitors at Snowshoe Mountain Resort The following is an industry press release … MARIETTA, Ga. — Yamaha Motor Corp., USA’s, annual Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) University is scheduled to return to Snowshoe Mountain Resort in West Virginia this June 24-26 during the 2020 GNCC series. While the racing season has been postponed, Yamaha remains committed to bringing back this inspiring and educational hands-on event for up-and-coming racers when the race series resumes. “We are looking forward to another great GNCC University this year and are working closely with Racer Productions and Snowshoe Mountain Resort to ensure we are not only prepared to host a successful event per the current schedule, but we do so appropriately and safely based on current conditions,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s motorsports group marketing manager. “A primary reason this event is so popular with attendees is because it affords ambitious amateur riders the opportunity to grow their skill set with the help of seasoned pros and champions. They are then able to put their learnings into practice that same weekend at one of the most challenging GNCC races of the year.” “I look forward to GNCC University

Stay-at-home order in Virginia means no racing in May The following is an industry press release … IRVINE, Calif. — MotoAmerica has announced that it has been forced to cancel the MotoAmerica Superbikes at Virginia event scheduled for May 1-3 at VIRginia International Raceway due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the Governor of Virginia’s stay-at-home order set to end June 10. Although MotoAmerica and VIR worked diligently to find an alternative date, the task proved impossible. MotoAmerica, however, is still working toward holding a 10-event schedule. Currently, the 2020 MotoAmerica Series is scheduled to begin May 29-31 with Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wis., with the Superbikes at Road America and the Vintage Motofest event. “We worked with hard with VIR to try and find a new date once Governor Northam extended the stay-at-home order to June 10, but we couldn’t make it work and have been forced to cancel,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “Not being able to race at VIR in 2020 was not something we ever imagined, but then again we never thought we’d be faced with something like COVID-19. We will continue to work towards a 10-event schedule for 2020 and will keep everyone posted

The following is an industry press release … KTM AG have assessed their overall strategy for the rest of 2020 and have decided to make several key decisions in the wake of COVID-19 impacting public health, communities, the motorcycle industry and business on a global scale. In the best interest of their employees and customers, the company will withdraw from global trade shows for the rest of the year, including INTERMOT in Cologne, Germany and the EICMA exhibition in Milan, Italy. The proper planning of such events is currently at risk due to the uncertainty surrounding public gathering restrictions in most countries. The annual success of these indoor shows also sees hundreds of thousands of visitors gathering in enclosed spaces for a period lasting days and even weeks. For these reasons, KTM AG have identified their exclusion as way to contribute towards a safe and strong return to normal activity. Husqvarna Motorcycles will push ahead with current and future projects in order to provide the motorcycling market with exciting and innovative models and look for the best ways to show-off these developments. The KTM AG board of directors wish to communicate that the coming months represent a small squeeze on

Indy 500 move necessitates change The following is an industry press release … IRVINE, Calif. — Indianapolis Motor Speedway has announced that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic it has rescheduled the Indy 500 to Aug. 23. To accommodate the change, MotoAmerica has rescheduled its Superbikes at the Brickyard event to Oct. 9-11. “We knew that with the current situation of the Coronavirus outbreak, more changes could be coming,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “We understand Indy’s position on this and we’re happy to make the move to the Oct. 9-11. As our fans, racers, teams and sponsors understand, things are changing on a daily basis and we are working diligently to have a 10-round 2020 MotoAmerica Series.” As it stands now, the Superbikes at the Brickyard event will be round nine of the 10-round series.  

Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta To Host Round Five The following is an industry press release … MotoAmerica has announced that it has rescheduled the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta round of the 2020 MotoAmerica Series from April 17-19 to July 31-Aug. 2 due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With the opening round of the series originally scheduled for Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, already postponed until November because of the Coronavirus, Road Atlanta was slated to be the opening round of the 2020 MotoAmerica Series. As it stands now, the series will begin at VIRginia International Raceway in Alton, Virginia, May 1-3, though MotoAmerica is continuing to monitor that situation as well. “We are all in this together as everyone in the world is affected in some way by COVID-19,” MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey said. “There are a lot of people who are struggling right now on so many levels. Even though racing motorcycles doesn’t rank highly in the list of problems going on in our world, our teams and our racetracks rely on racing because it’s their livelihood. With that being said, racing right now just isn’t possible. However, we’ve been working with the good people at Michelin

No Pause for MIC Staff as We Ride It Out The following is an industry press release … IRVINE, Calif. — As the coronavirus pandemic continues, Motorcycle Industry Council staff members are operating remotely and haven’t slowed down one bit. In the interest of physical distancing, MIC offices are empty but the work for association members goes on without interruption. “Things change, we adapt,” MIC President and CEO Erik Pritchard said. “Our industry is facing a new world, along with everyone else. The association approach stays the same: collective efforts to benefit the powersports business and riders at large. We’re well aware that the coronavirus pandemic will affect our members, big and small. We are dedicated to doing whatever it takes to help us all ride it out, together.” MIC leaders and department heads have canceled or postponed events in March and April, taking all precautions, while still performing critical functions and making plans for projects that can be done without assembling groups of people. This month, MIC staff members have: • Written to the White House, congressional leadership, and all governors, seeking to keep powersport manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and dealerships in operation during emergency declarations. This way, service by

The following is an industry press release … No decision made yet on Road Atlanta round IRVINE, Calif. — MotoAmerica is continuing to assess the situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the opening round of the series, scheduled for April 17-19 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, and will make decisions in a timely manner based on the safety and well-being of its fans, racers, teams and all support personnel. MotoAmerica is and will be following directives from several entities, including national, state and local governments, as we move closer to our events. Although we all want to race motorcycles, there are more important things happening in the world and MotoAmerica is taking the Coronavirus very seriously. While we are hopeful of going to Road Atlanta and having our first race of the year as scheduled, we will only do so if the safety of our fans, riders and teams is not compromised. Things are changing so quickly that it’s not possible to make any decisions on Road Atlanta or any other rounds at this point. We will, however, make a decision as quickly as possible when the time is right. Safety is paramount to everyone at MotoAmerica,

The following is an industry press release … DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Due to the ongoing unprecedented situation regarding COVID-19 and expanding restrictions on domestic and international travel, and in accordance with national, state and local governments prohibiting large group gatherings, American Flat Track has decided to postpone its March 28 Atlanta Short Track and April 4 Charlotte Half-Mile events until further notice. The health and safety of everyone involved in our sport continues to remain our top priority, and it is for this reason that we will continue to assess the situation ahead of the remaining events within the CDC’s recommended eight-week window of caution. Because of this, ticket sales for the May 2 Texas Half-Mile and May 9 So-Cal Half-Mile have been postponed until further notice. As more information is available within the coming weeks, specific announcements regarding those two events will follow. Advance ticket holders are offered equivalent admission for any other AFT Events race occurring within the next 18 calendar months. Contact tickets@americanflattrack.com for inquiries and requests. We value all of our fans and appreciate your understanding while we continue to monitor the situation. For additional information contact: AMA Pro Racing Communications, (386) 492-1014, communications@amaproracing.com

The following is an industry press release … Beta is proud to launch the 2020 RR-S 125 model, adding new colors for the new year. The 2020 125 RR-S was designed for many different riders and is determined to put a smile on all that experience it. The bike is very reliable with its 125cc electric start four-stroke engine that provides a soft power delivery yet enough torque to inspire riders of all abilities. All this while being street legal in all 50 states. Beta owns the phrase rideability, and the 2020 125 RR-S continues this experience with a slim, lightweight bike that is safe, reliable, and easy to ride while creating a riding experience like no other manufacturer can provide. Also new for 2020 is the ability for customers to order a 125 RR-S model straight from the factory with a 1.5-inch lower seat height over the stock models. These “lowboy” models have parts installed inside the front fork and rear shock to lower the seat height. Prices: $4999.00* (No price increase for 2020) *plus sales tax, license, and other dealer fees. Availability: April

The following is an industry press release … DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — On Saturday, March 7, the Daytona Supercross will celebrate a significant milestone in its event history with the 50th running of the prestigious Supercross event. And to celebrate the longest continuous Supercross event in America, several of those champion riders will travel to Daytona International Speedway to be a part of the event, with a couple competing in the grueling and challenging race. Here’s a look at the Daytona Supercross champions that race fans will be able to see either on track, during opening ceremonies or at other appearances throughout the day: · 2000-03, 2006 champion Ricky Carmichael, who also serves as the course designer · 1989-92 champion Jeff Stanton · 2016-17, 2019 champion Eli Tomac (competing) · 2004-05, 2009 champion Chad Reed (competing) · 1986 and 1988 champion Ricky Johnson · 2018 champion Justin Brayton (competing) · 1997 champion Jeff Emig · 1975 champion Jimmy Ellis · 1971 champion Gunnar Lindstrom · 1980 champion Rex Staten The Daytona Supercross will feature the best Supercross riders in the world battling for a coveted win in this special Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship event. The course

Board of Directors Appoints Board Member Jochen Zeitz as Acting President and CEO The following is an industry press release … MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson, Inc. (“Harley-Davidson”) (NYSE:HOG) has announced that Matthew Levatich has stepped down as President and CEO and as a member of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has appointed current Board member Jochen Zeitz as Acting President and CEO. A committee of the Board will be formed, and the Company will utilize an external search firm to undertake a search for a new CEO, and a further announcement will be made at a later date. Levatich will assist with the transition through the end of March. As part of this leadership change, Jochen Zeitz has also been named Chairman of the Board and will remain Chairman once a new CEO is appointed. Current Chairman of the Board, Michael Cave, is now Presiding Director. Zeitz said, “The Board and Matt mutually agreed that now is the time for new leadership at Harley-Davidson. Matt was instrumental in defining the More Roads to Harley-Davidson accelerated plan for growth, and we will look to new leadership to recharge our business. On behalf of the Board, I would like to

The following is an industry press release … DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Construction has begun in the tri-oval area between pit road and the start/finish line to create the course for the historic 50th running of the Daytona Supercross, scheduled for Saturday, March 7. For the 13th straight year, Supercross legend Ricky Carmichael returns as the course designer and Bomber Built–owned by three-time AMA 125cc National Motocross Champion Mark Barnett–is building the course. Carmichael is a five-time Daytona Supercross champion who retired from competition in 2007 as the most decorated rider in history with 15 AMA championships and 150 wins. This year’s Ricky Carmichael Signature Design features a nod to the history of the Daytona Supercross and includes elements from past Daytona courses such as the over-the-wall jump, the Daytona tunnel jump and grass as a fourth racing surface; the Daytona logo will also be displayed in the center of the extended course. Daytona International Speedway has been hosting the Daytona Supercross since 1971, making it the longest continuous Supercross event in America. Here’s a look at some of the numbers behind the construction of this year’s Daytona Supercross course: 400 – Truckloads of dirt 8,600 – Tons of dirt

The following is an industry press release … COVINGTON, La. — SPOT LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., and a leader in satellite messaging and emergency notification technologies, today announced its newest upgrade. SPOT Mapping is now available for all SPOT devices, offering an easy dashboard to track and share outdoor adventures, while providing an added peace of mind when the unexpected happens. SPOT Mapping includes mobile responsive and sharable maps, multi-year data storage, and various map displays, including satellite, road and terrain options. Users can view maps in live mode for real-time tracking, or history mode to review previous trips and set places to reference on the next journey. “We have consistently listened to our customers feedback and worked diligently to offer a new enhanced mapping experience,” said Dave Kagan, CEO of Globalstar. “SPOT is proud to have initiated nearly 7,000 rescues worldwide and our hope is that our mapping platform brings a new level of visuals and functionality to keep outdoor adventures safer and more informative than ever.” SPOT Mapping is now available to existing customers using the SPOT X, the SPOT Gen 3, the SPOT Trace, and SPOT legacy products, all included in Basic level

The following is an industry press release … Single-cylinder street explorers receive new technical features and striking graphics for 2020 Husqvarna Motorcycles are pleased to announce the availability of the MY20 Vitpilen and Svartpilen range – four exciting street models that feature ground-breaking design as well as receiving new technical features and colours for 2020. The Vitpilen 701 delivers exceptional performance and an unmistakably dynamic riding experience, which encourages riders to clear their minds and focus on the road ahead. Combining a 692cc single cylinder engine with a lightweight chassis and sport-oriented WP suspension it’s a motorcycle that guarantees a thrilling ride on technical and twisty roads, fully complemented by strong Brembo brakes. Offering a riding experience that is defined by its pureness, the Svartpilen 701 is a modern and progressive motorcycle inspired by the timeless authenticity of the flat track scene. A raw, dependable and thrilling ride is guaranteed by a lightweight chassis –161 kg without fuel – and a 75 hp single cylinder engine. For 2020, the Vitpilen 701 and Svartpilen 701 come fitted with CNC-machined footpegs as standard, for superior quality and attention to detail. In addition, they also feature a new quality painted finish and graphics,

New Honda Kokoro Video Highlights the Program’s Success The following is an industry press release … TORRANCE, Calif. — To commemorate the National Youth Project Using Minibikes’ (NYPUM) 50th anniversary, Honda released a new Honda Kokoro video with heartfelt testimonials from NYPUM youth, parents, administrators, Honda executives and leaders from the Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps, a child welfare and juvenile justice nonprofit organization that supports NYPUM operations. The Honda Kokoro video series celebrates the heritage, culture, people, products and community involvement that make Honda unique. “Kokoro” means heart in Japanese. NYPUM is a national mentoring program for youth ages 10-17 that uses minibikes as a motivational tool to positively affect behavior and academic performance. The program teaches teamwork and responsible riding skills, while providing an opportunity to build self-esteem and develop self-discipline and leadership abilities. Those who excel are rewarded with trips to outdoor public spaces to ride off-road motorcycles and learn about the importance of environmental stewardship. The program is provided at no cost to participants. “We see daily and immediate positive growth in nearly every kid, every day,” said NYPUM National Director Mark Speller, who has been part of the organization for more than a decade.