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Led Zeppelin Vocalist and Radio 2 Host Pay Their Respects at Johnnie Walker’s Funeral

Robert Plant, lead singer of Led Zeppelin, along with Johnnie Walker’s former colleagues from BBC Radio 2, came together to honor the late DJ at his funeral in Shaftesbury.

Walker passed away at the age of 79 in December, with the announcement of his death made on New Year’s Eve by Bob Harris, who took over hosting Walker’s Sounds Of The 70s show in November.

For the past three decades, he lived with his wife Tiggy in a 17th-century farmhouse in the north Dorset town, where he also broadcast his beloved radio show.

Harley Davidson riders gather behind the hearse to take part in a tribute following the funeral of DJ Johnnie Walker at St Peter's Church in ShaftesburyHarley Davidson riders gather behind the hearse to take part in a tribute following the funeral of DJ Johnnie Walker at St Peter’s Church in Shaftesbury (Image: Andrew Matthews) The funeral service took place at St Peter’s Church, where Walker’s wife Tiggy, clad in pink, and other friends and loved ones, witnessed the procession of Harley Davidson riders paying respects to the DJ’s hearse.

An enthusiastic rider of American motorcycles, Walker was honored with a “ride of honour” by fellow bikers, a tradition for deceased riders.

Among those in attendance were Simon Mayo, who spent nearly twenty years with BBC Radio 2 before leaving in 2018, along with radio luminaries Bob Harris, Jeremy Vine, and Tony Blackburn.

Robert Plant arrives at the funeral of DJ Johnnie Walker at St Peter's Church in Shaftesbury, Dorset. Mr Walker, who hosted BBC Radio 2's Sounds Of The 70s and The Rock Show, died on 31 December, aged 79.Robert Plant arrives at the funeral of DJ Johnnie Walker at St Peter’s Church in Shaftesbury, Dorset. Mr Walker, who hosted BBC Radio 2’s Sounds Of The 70s and The Rock Show, died on 31 December, aged 79. (Image: Andrew Matthews)

Dressed in black and dark blue, Plant had previously praised Walker in December, describing him as “a defender and gatekeeper of great musical taste, a cool, kind man who kept the bar high for all of us who loved him.”

Walker had retired due to health issues, stepping away from his Radio 2 show The Rock Show last October after being diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Also in attendance were BBC and ITV sports presenter John Inverdale, former BBC presenter Suzi Perry, radio host Paul Gambaccini, BBC Radio 2 presenter Jo Whiley, and actress Pippa Haywood from Green Wing.

Jeremy Vine arrives at the funeral of DJ Johnnie Walker at St Peter's Church in Shaftesbury, Dorset.Jeremy Vine arrives at the funeral of DJ Johnnie Walker at St Peter’s Church in Shaftesbury, Dorset. (Image: Andrew Matthews) The keyboardist Rick Wakeman expressed his pride on X this Thursday for being asked by Tiggy, Walker’s wife, who supported him during his illness and assisted in producing his radio show from home, to perform at the service.

He delivered a heartfelt rendition of his song Gone But Not Forgotten, a piece he also shared at the memorial for the former Countdown host Richard Whiteley.

(Image: Andrew Matthews)

On December 31, Tiggy Walker paid tribute to her late husband, remarking that he remained his “charming, humorous self to the end”, and expressed, “bless that extraordinary husband of mine, who is now in a place of peace”.

The illness that Walker suffered from, IPF, leads to lung scarring and progressively worsening breathing difficulties. According to the NHS, there is “currently no treatment” that can halt or reverse this condition.

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Harley Davidson News

McDonald’s Moves Away from DEI Commitment in Supply Chain

This audio has been generated automatically. We welcome your feedback.

Dive Brief:

  • McDonald’s is discontinuing its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within its supply chain, and will be “retiring aspirational representation goals,” according to a letter disclosed on January 6 to employees and suppliers.
  • Despite this shift, the company announced that it successfully reached its target of allocating 25% of its supplier budget to diverse-owned businesses in the U.S. three years ahead of its timeline, as per the letter.
  • McDonald’s will maintain its practice of reporting demographic data regarding its board, staff, and suppliers in an annual report, as stated in the letter signed by multiple executives, including EVP and Global Chief Supply Chain Officer Marion Gross.

Dive Insight:

Additionally, McDonald’s is moving away from its DEI initiatives throughout the entire organization to concentrate on “inclusion” following a “comprehensive” civil rights audit conducted last year, as noted in the letter.

The company considered various factors leading to this decision, which included shareholder proposals, the 2023 Supreme Court ruling that invalidated affirmative action, and the reevaluation of programs by other companies.

As it shifts focus from its DEI commitments in the supply chain, McDonald’s stated it will engage in “more integrated discussions with suppliers concerning inclusion and its impact on business performance.”

The fast food giant did not provide any comments after a request to clarify the specifics of these discussions.

Such moves by McDonald’s reflect a broader trend, as numerous brands across different sectors have also reduced their DEI commitments. Last summer, Harley Davidson removed its supplier diversity budget goals alongside additional DEI rollbacks. Similarly, Tractor Supply cut its DEI positions among other reductions related to DEI.

In recent months, several tech companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have also changed their stance on DEI. Meta, in particular, is discontinuing its supplier diversity initiative as part of its broader DEI cutbacks.

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Harley Davidson News

Switzerland Implements Stringent New Road Noise Regulations

Throughout the years, there has been extensive political discourse regarding the limitation of noise generated by vehicles. As of early 2025, new noise regulations that were approved by parliament in 2021 took effect. The Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) has instituted a ban on any avoidable vehicle noise, which encompasses noise from vehicle modifications, unnecessary revving of engines, and exhaust back-firing.

Switzerland Implements Stringent New Road Noise Regulations
Photo by the almani on Pexels.com

Individuals caught generating avoidable vehicle noise now face fines reaching CHF 10,000. Furthermore, minor infractions, such as leaving engines running unnecessarily, can incur fines of CHF 80, a slight increase from the previous CHF 60 before January 1, 2025.

The purpose of this new legislation is to enhance public health. Approximately 1 million residents in Switzerland are subjected to harmful noise levels, which are associated with around 450 premature deaths annually, as reported by RTS.

However, policing these regulations can be challenging. The cantons of Basel-Landschaft and Geneva have experimented with noise radars that detect sound levels exceeding 82 decibels, the threshold at which noise begins negatively impacting health. Typically, most unmodified vehicles emit noise levels between 50 and 65 decibels, making 82 decibels significantly higher. Through these trials, only about 1% of vehicles activated the noise radars, with motorcycles frequently being among the culprits.

In the absence of noise radars, the responsibility for monitoring loud vehicles rests with the police. In the canton of Vaud, police officers stopped 800 vehicles throughout 2024, of which 290 (36%) were deemed excessively noisy. It’s important to note that this percentage is not representative of the whole; the police were strategically targeting known noisy areas.

Driving a modified vehicle is illegal, as clarified by the police. Cars or motorcycles that do not conform to their original noise levels at the point of first registration cannot be legally operated on Swiss roadways.

For more information:
RTS article (in French) Take a 5-minute French test now
New laws on the FEDRO website (in French)

To read more stories like this about Switzerland, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.






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Harley Davidson News

InventHelp Inventor Creates Innovative Stand for Motorcycle Touring Parts (SGM-408)

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “My goal was to design an adaptable stand for securely supporting Harley Davidson* touring body panels that have been detached during regular maintenance or modification, leading to the creation of this,” stated an inventor from Casco, Mich. “I introduced THE DEAD HORSE STAND, which ensures that components are held securely, elevated, and organized to prevent any potential harm.”

InventHelp Logo (PRNewsfoto/InventHelp)

InventHelp Logo (PRNewsfoto/InventHelp)

This innovative, patent-pending invention provides a reliable support system for temporarily holding detached motorcycle components. By doing so, it protects high-value parts from scratches, minor dents, and dings during repairs, detailing, or modifications. The design emphasizes sturdiness and security and is user-friendly, foldable, and easy to store, making it perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts, repair shops, and custom builders. A prototype and technical drawings are available upon request.

The original concept was presented to the Indianapolis sales office of InventHelp. It is currently on the market for licensing or sale to manufacturers and marketers. For additional details, please write to Dept. 23-SGM-408, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. To learn more about InventHelp’s Invention Submission Services, visit http://www.InventHelp.com.
*InventHelp® is not affiliated with or endorsed by H-D U.S.A., LLC, the trademark holder of HARLEY-DAVIDSON.

Cision

Cision

Access the original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/inventhelp-inventor-develops-new-stand-for-touring-motorcycle-parts-sgm-408-302348902.html

SOURCE InventHelp

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Harley Davidson News

InventHelp Inventor Creates Innovative Stand for Touring Motorcycle Parts (SGM-408)

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “I aimed to design a multifunctional stand for supporting Harley Davidson* touring body panels while they are removed for routine maintenance or customization,” said an inventor from Casco, Mich. “Thus, I developed THE DEAD HORSE STAND. My creation ensures that the components are secured, elevated, and organized to prevent any potential damage.”

The patent-pending invention offers reliable support for motorcycle parts that have been detached and are temporarily stored. This innovation helps to avert scratches, minor dents, and dings on costly motorcycle components during repairs, detailing, or customization. Consequently, it provides enhanced protection. The design boasts durability and security, making it easy to use, fold, and store, which is perfect for motorcycle owners, repair shops, and custom builders. A prototype and technical drawings are available upon request.

The original concept was presented to the Indianapolis sales office of InventHelp. It is currently up for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, please write to Dept. 23-SGM-408, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Discover more about InventHelp’s Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

*InventHelp® is not affiliated with or endorsed by H-D U.S.A., LLC, the manufacturer of HARLEY-DAVIDSON, which holds a trademark.

InventHelp Inventor Creates Innovative Stand for Touring Motorcycle Parts (SGM-408) View the original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/inventhelp-inventor-develops-new-stand-for-touring-motorcycle-parts-sgm-408-302348902.html

SOURCE InventHelp

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Harley Davidson News

10 Cruiser Bikes That Can Outrace the New Tesla Model Y

Motorcycles consistently outperform cars in terms of power-to-weight ratios. Even the fastest supercars find it challenging to match the acceleration of some high-performance sports bikes. But what about the low-profile and comfortable cruiser motorcycles? Can they hold their own against the latest instantly responsive electric vehicles?

To satisfy our curiosity, we chose the new 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper as our benchmark, compiling a list of ten mass-produced cruiser motorcycles that are quicker than the electric vehicle. On paper, the Model Y Juniper accelerates from 0-62 MPH in 5.9 seconds and boasts a top speed of 124 MPH. This is quite average, even slightly slower than many current electric cars. Keep in mind, the Model Y is ultimately designed as a family vehicle.

For our reference, we’re focusing on the basic RWD single-motor Tesla. However, even the Long Range dual-motor AWD Model Y Juniper, which can achieve 0-60 in 4.3 seconds, is still outpaced by 90% of the cruisers we’ll discuss. With that setup clarified, let’s explore this vivid compilation, featuring urban-friendly cruisers from Honda, Kawasaki, and Harley-Davidson, alongside power cruisers from Triumph, Indian, and Ducati.

We have gathered this information from authoritative sources, including the manufacturers’ official websites. This list ranks cruisers from slowest to fastest based on 0–60 times. Please note that we have excluded baggers and touring cruisers (which include standard saddles and additional features). We aimed to incorporate at least one cruiser from each of the most well-known motorcycle brands available in 2025.

Related


10 Powerful Cruiser Motorcycles That Turn 10-Years-Old In 2025

Some of the fastest muscle cruisers on the used market are turning 10 this year

10

Kawasaki Vulcan S

0-60 MPH: ~5.1 Seconds

Rider on a 2025 Kawasaki Vulcan S
Kawasaki

You might not know that this middleweight bike is actually Kawasaki’s most powerful cruiser at present. Featuring an engine derived from the Ninja 650, the Kawasaki Vulcan S can be deemed an economical power cruiser. Weighing in at under 500 pounds, the power-to-weight ratio of the Vulcan S is impressive.

Unlike typical cruisers that generate more torque than horsepower, and tend to peak at lower RPMs, this cruiser inherits traits from its sportier lineage. The peak torque of 46.3 LB-FT is achieved at 6,600 RPM. Priced under $7,500, this cruiser stands out as the most affordable option in this list with the ability to outperform the 2025 Tesla Model Y.

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

Parallel-Twin; Liquid-Cooled

Engine Displacement

649cc

Power

60 HP

Torque

46.3 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

498.3 LBS.

Price

$7,399

9

BMW R 18

0-60 MPH: 4.96 Seconds

2025 BMW R18 cruiser accelerating front third quarter view
BMW Motorrad

The standout quality of the BMW R 18 is its homage to classic architecture. Despite its substantial 761-pound weight, this cruiser is equipped with an air-oil-cooled boxer twin that allows it to achieve a remarkable 0-60 time of under 5 seconds. This impressive performance is largely attributed to its potent torque output of 116 pound-feet, with a whopping 90 percent delivered at low RPMs (1,500). Created as a rival to Harley-Davidson, BMW managed to infuse traditional motorcycling values into this cruiser in just five years. It also stands as the most affordable cruiser with over 100 lb-ft of torque currently available.

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

Boxer-Twin; Air-Oil Cooled

Engine Displacement

1,802cc

Power

91 HP

Torque

116 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

761 LBS.

Price

$14,995*

*Listed price for the 2024 model year

8

2025 Suzuki Boulevard M109R

0-60 MPH: <4 Seconds

2024 Suzuki Boulevard M109R accelerating side profile view
Suzuki

In addition to being the most economical cruiser motorcycle with over 100 horsepower, the Suzuki Boulevard M109R boasts several remarkable features. Among these is its massive pistons, which are the largest in the motorcycle world, even outsize many automotive options. The classic design, coupled with a powerful 1,783cc V-Twin with a gleaming chrome finish, further elevates its exceptional character. Despite its considerable attributes, the M109R can attain 0-60 in under 4 seconds, benefiting from technologies derived from the Suzuki GSX series of sports bikes.

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled

Engine Displacement

1,783cc

Power

128 HP

Torque

118 LB-FT

Transmission

5-Speed

Curb Weight

764 LBS.

Price

$15,799

Related


Here Are The Most Powerful Cruiser Bikes From All Popular Brands

The most powerful cruiser bike here packs the biggest production engine ever on a motorcycle.

7

Indian Scout Bobber

0-60 MPH: <4 Seconds

Rider on a 2025 Indian Scout Bobber
Indian Motorcycle

The Indian Scout family received notable updates for 2025, including enhancements to the Scout Bobber. It now features a larger engine that delivers increased power and torque while being lighter. Consequently, even with its relaxed look, the new Scout Bobber is a spirited performer and a very capable urban motorcycle. It not only surpasses the Tesla Model Y with a 0-60 time of under 4 seconds but also boasts a top speed of 128 mph.

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled

Engine Displacement

1,250cc

Power

105 HP

Torque

82 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

542 LBS.

Price

$12,999

6

Harley-Davidson Nightster

0-60 MPH: 3.92 seconds

Harley-Davidson Nightster Third Quarter Full view hd cruiser wallpaper
Harley-Davidson

The Harley-Davidson Nightster is a contemporary and lightweight V-Twin cruiser that redefines the long-standing Sportster lineup. Built primarily for urban riding, it features the smallest V-twin engine among Harley models, focusing on efficiency and agility. Weighing just 481 pounds, this motorcycle boasts an impressive 0-60 time of under 4 seconds, making it quicker than the dual-motor Tesla Model Y Juniper, which achieves 0-60 in 4.3 seconds. This makes the Nightster the most budget-friendly Harley-Davidson motorcycle currently available.

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled

Engine Displacement

975cc

Power

91 HP

Torque

72 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

481 LBS.

Price

$11,999*

*Price is listed for the 2024 model year

5

Indian 101 Scout

0-60 MPH: <3.7 Seconds

2025 Indian 101 Scout cruising across sand
Indian Motorcycle

The newest 101 Scout represents the latest and most potent model in the Indian Scout lineage, paying tribute to the iconic 1920s model. Using a tweaked version of the same 1,250cc engine found in the 105-horsepower Scout Bobber, this model cranks out 111 HP. The innovative 1250 SpeedPlus V-Twin engine operates at high RPMs, reaching peak power at 7,250 RPM and maximum torque at 6,300 RPM. Even though it stands as the heaviest American cruiser on this list, the Indian Scout 101 impressively dashes from 0 to 60 in less than 3.7 seconds, further emphasizing its sporty character.

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled

Engine Displacement

1,250cc

Power

111 HP

Torque

82 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

549 LBS.

Price

$16,999

4

Honda Rebel 1100

0-60 MPH: 3.4 Seconds

2025 Honda Rebel 1100 powerful cruiser accelerating on the freeway
Honda

Boasting impressive versatility, the Honda Rebel 1100 features a variant of the parallel-twin engine utilized in the Africa Twin. The 1,083cc engine’s compact design helps maintain a curb weight of an impressive 487 pounds, accompanied by a short 59.8-inch wheelbase, making it adept at urban maneuvering.

It’s also efficient for a liter-class cruiser, averaging 48 MPG. Beyond practical attributes, the Honda Rebel 1100 is a fun ride, achieving 0-60 in under 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 128 MPH, outperforming the new Model Y Juniper in both categories. Furthermore, it is recognized as the most powerful cruiser motorcycle available under $10,000!

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

Parallel-Twin;

Engine Displacement

1,083cc

Power

85.8 HP

Torque

72.3 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

487 LBS.

Price

$9,599

Related


10 American Cruisers More Powerful Than A Japanese Cruiser

After being pressured by metric options, modern American cruisers are finally getting more powerful than ever

3

Harley-Davidson Sportster S

0-60 MPH: 3.4 Seconds

2024 Harley-Davidson Sportster S cruising on the road
Harley-Davidson

The Harley-Davidson Sportster S packs a punch with 121 horsepower, making it a standout in Harley’s lineup of modern power cruisers. Equipped with a robust 1,252cc liquid-cooled V-Twin, this lightweight bike (502 pounds) leads the charge for performance in the cruiser category.

Impressively designed, the Sportster S includes sport bike-grade components such as variable valve timing and double overhead camshafts. The result? A motorcycle that zips from 0-60 in just 3.4 seconds with a remarkable top speed of 143 MPH, easily outpacing the Tesla Model Y Juniper!

Specs And Price

Engine Configuration

V-Twin; Liquid-Cooled

Engine Displacement

1,252cc

Power

121 HP

Torque

93 LB-FT

Transmission

6-Speed

Curb Weight

502 LBS.

Price

$16,999*

*Price is based on the 2024 model year

2

Ducati Diavel V4

0-60 MPH: <3 Seconds

An action shot of a 2025 Ducati Diavel V4 on a corner
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Harley Davidson News

Theodore Ray Bingaman: 1952-2025 – A Tribute from Franklin County Free Press

Theodore Ray Bingaman, aged 72, of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

Theodore Ray Bingaman
Theodore Ray Bingaman

Theodore was born on August 19, 1952, in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, to the late Franklin and Helen (Reed) Bingaman.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Smith, along with his parents.

Theodore is survived by his wife, Darlene (Kline) Bingaman, with whom he shared 25 years. He is also survived by his sons, Eric Falcone and Darian Falcone, siblings Frank Bingaman, Dave Bingaman, Denny Bingaman, Pam Kauffman, Camilla Misner, Cindy Shockey, and many nieces and nephews.

During his life, Theodore had a passion for NASCAR, collecting die-cast models, cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, and riding Harley Davidson motorcycles. He dedicated 30 years to working at Food Lion.

The arrangements are handled by Parklawns Funeral Home.

A graveside service will take place on Thursday, January 23rd, at 1 p.m. at Parklawns Memorial Gardens, located at 3218 Philadelphia Ave, Chambersburg, PA 17202.


VIEW MORE OBITUARIES


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Harley Davidson News

InventHelp Inventor Creates Innovative Stand for Motorcycle Touring Accessories (SGM-408)

InventHelp Inventor Introduces Innovative Stand for Touring Motorcycle Components (SGM-408)

InventHelp Inventor Introduces Innovative Stand for Touring Motorcycle Components (SGM-408)

PR Newswire

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 16, 2025

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “My goal was to design a practical stand for securing Harley Davidson* touring body panels that are taken off during routine maintenance or customization, which led me to develop this,” an inventor from Casco, Mich. explained. “I named it THE DEAD HORSE STAND. My design securely holds components, keeping them elevated and separate to prevent any potential damage.”


InventHelp Inventor Creates Innovative Stand for Motorcycle Touring Accessories (SGM-408)


This patent-pending invention provides a reliable support system for temporarily storing detached motorcycle parts. By doing so, it helps prevent scratches, minor dents, and dings to valuable motorcycle components during repairs, detailing, or customization processes, offering added protection. The design is sturdy, secure, and user-friendly, easily folding and storing, making it perfect for motorcycle owners, repair shops, and customizers. Furthermore, prototype models and technical drawings are available upon request.

The initial design was presented to the Indianapolis sales office of InventHelp. This invention is now available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, please write to Dept. 23-SGM-408, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. To learn more about InventHelp’s Invention Submission Services, visit http://www.InventHelp.com.
*InventHelp® has no affiliation with, nor endorsement from H-D U.S.A., LLC, which is the trademark holder for HARLEY-DAVIDSON.

InventHelp Inventor Creates Innovative Stand for Touring Motorcycle Parts (SGM-408) View original content to access multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/inventhelp-inventor-develops-new-stand-for-touring-motorcycle-parts-sgm-408-302348902.html

SOURCE InventHelp

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Harley Davidson News

How Protolabs and DMLS Empower Harley Davidson Factory Racing: A Story of Leadership and Innovation







Kyle Wyman Harley Davidson Factory Racing

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing rider Kyle Wyman competes for a podium finish during the 2024 King of the Baggers season.



Motorcycle racing is an exhilarating sport where victories can be counted in microseconds. An edge can sometimes rest upon millimeters of tire gripping the track.







Luca Mazzei Protolabs

Luca Mazzei, strategic growth officer at Protolabs



Engineers and designers work diligently to eliminate any unnecessary weight, all while ensuring parts remain resilient enough to endure falls and continue functioning effectively.

When Harley-Davidson Factory Racing (HDFR) reached out for assistance in developing and producing components for their involvement in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers racing series, we eagerly embraced the opportunity. Crafting motorcycles of this caliber (weighing over 600 lbs) involves continuous iterations that lead to enhanced safety and performance metrics.

The ability to efficiently iterate and swiftly manufacture was essential to HDFR’s goals. This collaboration underscored the advantages of partnering with a singular, digital manufacturer for everything from prototyping to the production of usable parts.

The crucial design objectives were to enhance safety and maximize cornering speeds for bikes capable of exceeding 180 mph. With as many as 14 turns per lap, even a half-degree improvement in lean angle can drastically decrease race completion times.

3D Printing: A Viable Solution

Among the components developed for HDFR was a seemingly straightforward exhaust pipe. Running alongside the bike, the original design encountered issues with tight turns at high speeds, occasionally scraping against the ground and causing loss of control. Refining this design had the potential to yield significant performance enhancements.







Two part exhaust HDFR bike

The two-part exhaust system was printed via direct metal laser-sintering at Protolabs facility in Raleigh, N.C.



Working alongside our engineers, the design team from HDFR examined various manufacturing methods for their prototypes before ultimately opting for 3D printing—specifically, direct metal laser sintering (DMLS).

Why Choose DMLS?

DMLS utilizes powdered metals in an additive manufacturing process, providing remarkable design flexibility along with the creation of robust metallic components.

In a sizable build chamber, at least one laser is employed to fuse metal powders, layer by layer. Once a layer has adhered to the previous one, the platform gradually descends, followed by another layer of powder being applied for continued fabrication.







Titanium exhaust HDFR bike

The new 3D-printed, titanium exhaust features a new design that equips it closer to the bike, allowing for greater lean angle on turns.



After initial prototypes in stainless steel, HDFR opted for strong yet lightweight titanium for the final part. This material not only ensured durability but also offered outstanding resistance to corrosion—a crucial factor as the bikes must perform well across varying weather conditions. While titanium typically incurs higher costs, it was imperative that the part could withstand the abrasions of the racetrack while also significantly reducing weight.

Subsequent cycles of prototyping and testing allowed the team to refine the design based on insights from the riders. Each version was evaluated, leading to the creation of a production-ready component. With 3D printing’s speed in delivering complex parts, the design team could continuously improve the outcomes based on real-world testing.

The updated pipe design improved lean angles, enabling the riders to navigate turns faster without risking damage to the exhaust system.

Machined Components for Protection

While refining the exhaust system stood out as a major achievement for rapid prototyping, another critical part was designed to protect the shift assembly—the bike’s vital gear-change mechanism located on the left side. Any damage to this assembly could severely hinder performance during races.







Shift skid HDFR bike

The shift skid protects the shift assembly on the left side of the bike in case a crash occurs.



In a push for rapid iteration, HDFR realized just a few days before the race how critical it was to design a protective piece for the shift assembly. The objective was to ensure that if the bike tipped over, the shift skid would shield the assembly, allowing the rider to potentially continue the race.

Given the time constraints, 3+2-axis CNC machining was employed to fabricate the part from a block of aluminum 7075/T651/T6. The machining process was advantageous due to its precision and speed. As with the titanium exhaust, aluminum was selected for its strength, providing a lightweight yet robust solution.

The finalized design was submitted on a Monday, and the part was delivered to the Harley team just two days later, well ahead of the Friday qualifying sessions. This timing was fortuitous; rider Kyle Wyman experienced a slide during rainy conditions, scraping the skid against the pavement. The part functioned as intended, protecting the shift assembly and enabling Kyle to compete successfully in the subsequent race.

The Speed of Digital Manufacturing

A pivotal factor in HDFR’s triumph in the King of the Baggers series was the swift iteration enabled by digital manufacturing. Unlike traditional quoting methods, a digital quoting system provides rapid—if not instant—responses to requests for quotes (RFQs), along with critical design feedback for manufacturing. Without such insights, companies must engage in lengthy back-and-forth communications to refine part designs, which can be tedious and unproductive when operating under tight deadlines.







Kyle Wyman HDFR on track

Harley-Davidson Factory Racing rider Kyle Wyman competes on a wet track during the 2024 King of the Baggers season.



Digital manufacturing facilitates the rapid development required to keep products ahead of competition, efficiently transitioning from prototypes to final parts and ultimately crossing the finish line.

Subscribe to our twice-weekly, free eNewsletter for the latest manufacturing news and technical information, including new technologies, educational webinars, podcasts, and more.



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Harley Davidson News

The Linn County Chronicle

The Linn County Chronicle

Linn
County News

Published
January 22, 2025

Robert James
“Bobby” Shoemaker, 64, of Prescott, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, January 12,
2025. Born on July 18, 1960, in Kansas City, Kansas, he was the son of James
and Betty Brown Shoemaker. Bobby was a proud member of the Teamsters Union Local
#541 and was employed with Max Rieke Construction. Later, he became an ASE
Certified mechanic specializing in Harley Davidson Motorcycles. On July 30, 1994, he married Connie Tuey. Bobby was also part of the Christian
Motorcycle Association. He had a passion for music, playing the guitar, banjo,
and drums. He is preceded in death by his mother, Betty, and his sister,
Jenell Cruz. He leaves behind his wife, Connie; son, Josiah Shoemaker;
sister, Cindy Whitley (Jeff); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Mound City First Baptist
Church. The visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until the service commences. Memorial contributions are welcomed for the First Baptist Church Camp Scholarship Fund or the Mission Fund. Online condolences may be sent
to www.schneiderfunerals.com.