From Vespa demand to Moto Morini momentum, the longtime West Park, Ohio dealer shows why authenticity, community connection, and a thriving podcast audience still move metal.
By Brendan Baker
Editor-in-chief
We sat down recently with Phil Waters, owner of Cleveland Moto and longtime voice of the Cleveland Moto podcast, for a Power Hour interview. Waters — whose shop has been a staple in Northeast Ohio for more than 25 years — shares insights on the shifting two-wheel market, the role of premium scooter sales, the value of vintage service, and why he added Moto Morini to his lineup.
Cleveland Moto’s identity has always been crystal clear: two wheels only. “We don’t do ATVs or side-by-sides,” Waters says. “People ask if we can work on a Can-Am, and I tell them it doesn’t fit through the door. We’ve only got two-wheel doors.”
The business started in downtown Cleveland as a Vespa-focused operation before moving to Lakewood, where customers felt a scooter store belonged. Eventually, Waters settled the dealership in Cleveland’s historic West Park neighborhood — an area with a long motorcycle lineage thanks to generations of firefighters and police who lived there under the city’s former residency requirements.
The area remains dense with two-wheel activity. “There are about four shops within a tight radius,” Waters says. “And then you’ve got Santa’s Motorcycle Supply and Sills Motor Sales, both nearly 70 years old. Sills was one of the first Honda dealerships in the area. Cleveland’s got deep motorcycle roots.”
Asked about current sales trends, Waters echoes what many dealers have seen in 2024–25.
“The premium brands — Vespa especially — are still moving,” he says. “Vespa is a destination brand for a lot of people. Those customers are still buying.”
The slowdown is happening everywhere below premium, according to Waters.
“The $3,000 to $4,000 working-class scooters? Those aren’t selling. The super low-end Chinese scooters — other shops do a lot of that — aren’t selling either,” he says. “Lower-income and middle-income buyers are feeling the pinch. Everyone’s freezing. Even if they could finance something, they’re still holding back.”
But there are still seasonal surprises.
“Every year we panic in mid-September and think we’re done. And then the old white guys save fourth quarter,” Waters jokes. “Autumn is their superpower. They love riding this time of year. We’ll get guys who literally waited all year to buy a Moto Morini until the leaves changed.”
One key to Cleveland Moto’s longevity is its commitment to vintage service — a rarity among modern dealerships.
“We’re a year-round shop. We don’t lay anybody off,” Waters says. “Winter is when we work on the vintage bikes. There’s enough old iron in Cleveland to keep us busy.”
But there are limits.
“If you bring us a 1971 Moto Guzzi in March, we’re not touching it. Months that end in ‘-ber’—that’s when the vintage bikes come in,” he says. “March, April and May are for selling and prepping modern inventory. The vintage stuff keeps the lights on in January.”
Cleveland Moto’s podcast, now more than 525 episodes deep, started almost by accident. Waters and his friend Dustin were wrenching on a CB750 in a garage when a comedian friend walked in and said, “You guys are hilarious. Somebody should be recording this.”
Dustin, a musician and sound engineer, grabbed a recorder. The rest is history.
They experimented with a professional studio but eventually moved back to the garage. “We sounded great in the studio, but we lost the fun. No beer, no smoking,” Waters says. “The garage had soul.”
The show has developed a devoted community, including a Patreon base that helps fund equipment upgrades. “One listener came in for an episode, went home, and mailed us five Shure mics because he said we could sound better,” Waters laughs.
Today, the show streams live video with real-time switching thanks to producer “Sleepy,” a video professional with Summit Racing. “He’s amazing. Great editor, great drone pilot. He brings the whole thing together.”
A major shift in direction for the shop came with the addition of Moto Morini — an Italian brand with far deeper roots than the average American rider realizes.
“Moto Morini started in 1937,” Waters says. “People think it’s just a name a Chinese company bought, but Morini has a big racing history. They helped fund the development of Ducati’s early motors. There’s a lot of cross-pollination in the Italian motorcycle world.”
Morini’s modern revival is backed by Chinese manufacturer Zongshen, but the brand retains its design center and leadership in Milan, Italy.
“That matters,” Waters says. “When you design in Milan, you get the benefit of Italian component partners — Brembo, Marzocchi, Pirelli. You see that when you look at the bikes.”
The Seiemmezzo and X-Cape models — mid-displacement adventure and naked bikes — have impressed customers.
“They don’t cheap out. Pirelli Scorpions come standard. Good forks. Good brakes. These are quality bikes on par with Thai-built Japanese models, maybe better,” he says. “And the three-year unlimited-mile warranty? Customers love that.” Waters signed with the brand at AIMExpo last year after comparing them with other emerging models.
“Right now, the meme is, ‘Oh look, another affordable Chinese motorcycle.’ But that’s exactly what people said about Japanese bikes in the 1960s,” he adds. “This is déjà vu. And these bikes are legitimately good.”
Waters sees a huge opportunity in the 450–700cc class — especially as traditional heavyweight-cruiser buyers age out.
“The market is shifting down,” he says. “That mid-category is the pocket for new riders, returning riders, and older riders who don’t want 1200cc anymore.”
Adventure models in particular are hitting the sweet spot.
“You look at Moto Morini and others bringing 450s and 500s. That’s where things are going,” he says. “Americans used to scoff at a 500 — ‘It’s only a 500’ —but that narrative is breaking.”
He also sees broader global trends influencing what Americans will ride next.
“Seven of 10 vehicles in India and Asia are two-wheelers. Here it’s one out of fifty,” he says. “They build for the world. We’re just one market now.”
Asked why Cleveland Moto thrives while others fade, Waters circles back to identity and community.
“We know who we are: we’re a two-wheel shop that sells Vespas, sells cool motorcycles, works on vintage, and has a good time doing it,” he says. “Cleveland has a strong motorcycle culture, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
Harley-Davidson revealed the first chapter of its 2026 motorcycle lineup, including a solo trim package for three popular models, and the return of its touring, cruiser, sport, and adventure touring range.
Additional 2026 Harley-Davidson motorcycle models, including the limited-production CVO collection, will be revealed in the manufacturer’s second chapter on Jan. 14, 2026.
For 2026, Harley-Davidson is expanding its riding experiences with the introduction of a lower-priced Solo Trim Package for three popular models. Each bike features a solo seat, Dark Billiard Gray paint, and cast aluminum wheels. The Solo Trim Package is available for the Heritage Classic ($19,999), Street Bob ($14,999), and the Street Glide ($24,999).
The Street Glide and Road Glide range: From the company that created the cross-country experience, these Grand American Touring bikes are optimized for customers who prioritize luxury, performance and long-haul comfort.
The Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, Heritage Classic, Breakout, Fat Boy, and Street Bob models: The diverse line of Harley-Davidson cruiser motorcycles includes six distinctive vehicles, each presenting a specific stylistic personality, from nostalgic to high performance to boldly custom. Each model features the full suite of rider safety enhancements by Harley-Davidson and the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain, but in three unique tunes — with differences in intake and exhaust, cam profiles, and ride mode programming — to offer performance that matches the personality of each cruiser.
The Sportster S, Nightster Special, and Nightster models: The Revolution Max motor on these machines feature new engine covers offering an enhanced custom look. A new option package for the Nightster features blood orange paint with graphics inspired by Harley-Davidson flat track race bikes, plus chrome exhaust shields and 14-inch spoke cast aluminum wheels. Sport models will reach authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships globally in early 2026.
The Pan America 1250 Special and Pan America 1250 ST models: The award-winning Pan America 1250 Special motorcycle is a versatile, technologically advanced bike designed to give its rider the confidence to explore both on- and off-pavement routes. The Pan America 1250 ST is tuned for nimble sport-touring pavement performance with premium suspension and braking components, 17-inch wheels shod with performance tires, and a quickshifter.
The full range of The Motor Company’s Chapter One lineup will reach authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships soon, with the adventure touring models coming in early 2026.
Keeway America has announced three new models for the U.S. market: the Benda LFC700 muscle cruiser, the Benelli Tornado 550 mid-range sportbike, and the Keeway Shiny 50 urban scooter, expanding its 2026 motorcycle and scooter lineup across multiple segments.
The LFC700 and Tornado 550 are expected to begin arriving at U.S. dealerships in early 2026, while the Shiny 50 is already shipping to dealers nationwide. Keeway America encourages dealers interested in securing early inventory to contact the company as planning for the 2026 riding season begins.
As Benda’s new performance flagship, the LFC700 highlights the brand’s engineering ambitions and bold design direction. Powered by an inline four-cylinder engine, the LFC700 features adjustable KYB suspension, a single-sided swingarm, a 310mm rear tire, and Brembo brakes with ABS.
Following the success of the Napoleon Bob 500, Chinchilla 500, and Chinchilla 300, the LFC700 positions Benda as a serious contender in the high-performance cruiser segment combining muscle, refinement, and advanced electronics, including a full-color TFT display with multiple riding modes.
Benelli’s Tornado 550 brings the brand’s racing DNA into the mid-range sport category, pairing a 554cc parallel-twin engine with Marzocchi suspension and a full Brembo braking system. The bike features a large Wi-Fi- and Bluetooth-enabled TFT display, sculpted bodywork with integrated lighting, and premium componentry throughout.
Building on the strength of Benelli’s U.S. lineup, including the TNT135, Imperiale, and TRK 702 series, the Tornado 550 signals a renewed focus on the brand’s sporty heritage and modern performance identity.
The Shiny 50 adds a practical and stylish 50cc option to Keeway’s growing scooter family, joining models like the Versilia 150, Vieste 200, and Sixties 300i. Powered by a 49.4cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with automatic CVT transmission, it offers an approachable ride for urban commuters.
Features include full LED lighting, dual USB ports, built-in storage, and a lightweight design for easy handling. A front disc brake, rear drum brake, and telescopic fork/monoshock suspension complete the setup, combining classic design with modern convenience.
Keeway America’s expanded 2026 lineup strengthens its position in multiple key segments, including performance cruisers, mid-range sportbikes, and entry-level scooters, providing dealers with fresh product options across a wide range of riders and price points.
Keeway America is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Benelli, Keeway, and Benda motorcycles and scooters. The company supports a growing national dealer network with a lineup that spans entry-level commuters to high-performance motorcycles.
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has unveiled its 2026 street motorcycle lineup, headlined by the all-new WR125R Dual Sport and a significantly updated YZF-R7 Supersport.
The WR125R marks Yamaha’s return to the lightweight dual sport segment, offering an approachable, all-terrain machine designed to attract new riders and commuters alike.
Powered by a 125cc liquid-cooled single with Variable Valve Actuation, the WR125R delivers strong, efficient performance across the rev range. Its long-travel KYB suspension, 21/18-inch wheels with Dunlop dual sport tires, and front-only ABS give it true dual-purpose capability at an entry-level price.
“Affordable, capable, and fun, the WR125R opens the door for riders looking to explore both the street and the trail,” Yamaha said in its announcement. The model will be available in Team Yamaha Blue or Black for $3,999 MSRP and arrived at dealerships in November.
Meanwhile, Yamaha’s YZF-R7 — the middleweight that helped redefine the supersport category — receives a major overhaul for 2026. The new model features sharper R-Series styling, a revised frame and swingarm, an IMU-based electronics suite, and Yamaha Ride Control with customizable ride modes. Other updates include a five-inch full-color TFT display, smartphone connectivity via Y-Connect, Garmin navigation compatibility, and a new third-generation quickshifter with clutchless up- and downshifts. The 2026 R7 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue, Raven Black, or Breaker Cyan/Raven, with a $9,399 MSRP. Additionally, a 70th Anniversary Edition will be offered in red-and-white speed block livery, priced at $9,699 MSRP. Dealer deliveries are scheduled for February 2026.
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of Yamaha Motor Company’s founding, the company will also offer limited-edition versions of the YZF-R1, R9, R7, and R3 finished in heritage-inspired red-and-white speed block graphics.
Yamaha’s broader 2026 lineup returns with updates across the supersport, hyper naked, sport heritage, sport touring, and scooter categories, arriving at dealerships between now and March 2026.
Indian Motorcycle recently announced its model year lineup for 2026, headlined by the all-new Sport Scout RT, as well as updated paint and graphics schemes to multiple models, and new accessories across its cruiser, bagger, and touring range.
“Scout is a market-leading, globally recognized icon, and with the debut of the Sport Scout RT, we’re redefining what it means to ride an Indian Scout,” says Aaron Jax, vice president of Indian Motorcycle. “Through a host of new updates across the lineup, we’re not just holding our ground as the best cruiser on the road — we’re raising the bar by offering riders around the world an unrivaled way to experience the open road.”
Leveraging the style and proportions of Scout’s DNA — powered by a 1250cc V-twin engine, tucked into a next-generation steel tube frame — Sport Scout RT features a modern design and adds a more aggressive and capable spirit to the Scout lineup. Locking rigid saddlebags offer more than 10 gallons of weatherproof storage, capable of fitting an entire set of riding gear, with a top-down design that maximizes cargo capacity.
It features new color-matched fenders and quarter fairing paired with new graphics, while gloss black 5.5-inch moto style risers with machine highlights come standard. Machined triples and moto handlebars complete the package, both in custom looks and dialed ergonomics. Its sport solo seat provides lower back support and offers comfort on longer rides, and the quarter fairing keeps wind off the rider’s chest. The 19-inch front wheel adds to the aggressive nature of the bike, both in design and agile handling.
Starting at $16,999, the Sport Scout RT is available in the Limited +Tech trim in Black Smoke, Chalk, and Sunset Red Metallic.
Leading the 2026 color palette is Indian’s all-new Black Crystal and Super Graphite with Championship Gold accent finish, available for the 101 Scout, Chieftain PowerPlus, and Indian Challenger.
Other colors include:
Deep Blue Metallic: Scout Classic, Indian Chief, Chieftain, Chieftain PowerPlus, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster PowerPlus, and Indian Pursuit.
Chalk: Super Chief, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster PowerPlus, and Indian Pursuit
Indy Red: Sport Chief
Cascade Green Metallic with Black Metallic: Roadmaster PowerPlus and Indian Pursuit.
Roadmaster also adds Deep Blue Metallic with Silver Quartz Metallic.
Alongside these new colors, Indian refreshes its tank graphics across the Chief Dark Horse, Sport Chief, Super Chief Limited, and Super Chief Dark Horse.
The 2026 Indian Motorcycle accessory catalog offers a curated range, enabling riders to tailor their bike with added comfort, expanded storage, and enhanced audio.
PowerBand Audio Bluetooth speaker
Locking rigid saddlebags
Adjustable brake and clutch levers by Gilles Tooling
8-inch pullback handlebars risers
Two-up, two-tone high bolster seat
Syndicate reduced reach seat
2-inch pullback handlebars
8-inch pullback Moto handlebar risers
Spirit Lake saddlebag and trunk liner travel bags
Spirit Lake wheeled touring bag
The 2026 Indian Motorcycle lineup started shipping to dealers in November.
British bike manufacturer Norton Motorcycles announced its resurgence with the unveiling of two sports bikes and two middleweight adventure bikes at EICMA 2025, with plans to sell and service the new models at more than 200 showrooms across North America, Europe, and Asia in 2026.
After being acquired by India-based motorcycle manufacturer TVS Motor Company in 2020, Norton has received more than $230 million in investments towards its new headquarters in Solihull, West Midlands.
Norton’s new HQ operates as a global hub for research, development, and design, and has the scale to build 8,000 motorcycles a year. Norton now benefits from TVS’s wider manufacturing systems and supply chain infrastructures, while maintaining independent design and brand control in the UK. Recent expansion and refitting in readiness for production of the all-new Manx model line — unveiled at EICMA 2025 — has resulted in a 25% increase in the company’s workforce.
“Norton is a proudly British brand with a UK base for our design, development, and engineering, and through TVS Motor, it now has a platform for a global manufacturing and distribution network,” says Richard Arnold, executive director of Norton Motorcycles.
The Manx — a naked streetfighter — and the Manx R — Norton’s modern superbike — are both powered by a 1,200cc V4 engine, delivering 204hp and 130 Nm of torque output. Norton’s two middleweight adventure bikes, the Atlas and Atlas GT are both powered by a 585cc, 270-degree crank twin-cylinder engine, and are versatile enough for touring or daily commutes, with the Atlas more capable for off-road and adventure riding.
Brabus — the German brand specializing in high-performance tuning and luxury vehicle manufacturing — in collaboration with KTM, released the all-new Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition, a successor to the Brabus 1300 R with a production limit of 100 units worldwide.
Three years after Brabus first announced its entry into the global luxury motorcycle segment, the German company says it combined decades of design experience with the performance-driven ethos of Austrian manufacturer KTM. The 1400 R Signature Edition is the first luxury hyper naked bike of a brand-new model series — defined by an all-new signature aesthetic that offers even more power.
Using the 2025 KTM 1390 Super Duke R EVO as its technological platform, the Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition is defined by the company’s black and bold design aesthetic. Boasting an exclusive Widestar bodywork concept, enhanced by the Midnight Veil body color, is a tribute to Brabus’ high-performance supercars.
In the front, the fender and LED headlight unit are equipped with a daytime running light configuration. It’s framed by a tailor-made carbon fiber mask, integrating with the internal ram-air intake system for optimized airflow.
Custom side spoilers featuring carbon fiber accents underscore its profile, and the carbon fiber fuel tank fairing includes integrated Dinamica grips, while the carbon side fairing and ignition lock cover, premium upholstery, and the carbon belly pan create further highlights.
The Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition is equipped with a 1,350cc LC8 V-Twin engine. The two-cylinder, four-stroke powerhouse produces 190hp and 145 Nm of system torque. Operating in perfect interplay with the dual-pipe exhaust integrated under the carbon fiber undertray, it generates a soundscape that matches the bike’s aggressive looks.
The Monoblock II EVO platinum edition wheels are 17 inches in diameter and are manufactured using forging and CNC machining technology. The lightweight three-spoke structure optimizes stability and handling, ensuring that the luxury hyper naked bike corners with precision.
The limited-edition luxury hyper naked bike features the latest in Brembo’s Hypure four-piston monoblock brake system technology. The front calipers grip 320 mm Wave brake discs, while the rear calipers utilize a twin-piston floating caliper paired with a 240 mm Wave disk. Courtesy of their distinctive design prioritizing advanced heat transferring and weight reduction, the system significantly improves control and stopping power.
The machine’s adaptive handling is further enhanced by WP Apex semiactive technology suspension, boasting electronically controlled magnetic valves for variable damping and sophisticated variability — from maximum comfort to track-ready stiffness and support, and is paired with the adjustable rear shock absorber.
It features five dedicated ride modes, including street, sport, rain, performance, and track. A large, full-color TFT display offers clear access to all settings and ride modes via intuitive, illuminated handlebar switches, and the interface provides essential riding information easily.
The Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition is listed at 41,933 euros in Germany, which is roughly $48,300. Each of the 100 units is delivered with an exclusive range of extended accessories. These include a tailor-made indoor cover and a Brabus exhibition carpet. Also included is a leather ignition key cover as well as a carbon fiber key box containing one of 100 CNC-machined tabletop emblems for display.
For more information on the Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition, go to KTM.com.