Powersports Business November 2025 | Motorcycle

Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties Milwaukee NVP 2025: More than the sum of its parts

By Brendan Baker Editor in chief

With record-breaking attendance and a robust lineup of exhibitors, seminars, and networking opportunities, this year’s NVP Product Expo, hosted by Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties Sept. 6–7 at the Baird Center, offered a comprehensive view of the current state and future of the powersports aftermarket industry. 

Now in its second year in Milwaukee, the NVP Expo is expanding beyond a traditional product showcase. “The Expo is about innovation, collaboration, and connecting our dealers with the resources they need to thrive,” says Paul Devine, vice president of sales and marketing at Parts Unlimited. “We continue to see growth not just in attendance, but in the quality of interactions and relationships being formed on the show floor.” 

Showcasing products and possibilities 

Hundreds of exhibitors brought new products, technologies, and services to the expo, including Fist Handwear, RM Stator, Supersprox, Red Line Oil, and many more. Attendees were able to explore the latest offerings for motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, and powersports accessories, while taking advantage of exclusive show incentives. From branded backpacks and commemorative T-shirts to product certificates and memberships in the Motorcycle Industry Council, the Expo provided ample opportunities for dealers to stock up and engage with vendors. 

One of the highlights was the expo’s marquee prize: an all-expense-paid trip for two to the final MotoGP race in Valencia, Spain. The prize exemplifies NVP’s dual focus on fun and professional development, offering both entertainment and a reminder of the global nature of the powersports industry. 

Saturday night’s Meet & Greet/Bike Show drew large crowds to the Baird Ballroom and Skyview Terrace, providing panoramic views of downtown Milwaukee. The event featured the traditional V-twin and metric categories, along with a new vintage class. Meanwhile, the Bagger Racing League (BRL) hosted a custom bagger bike build competition, where attendees voted for their favorite build, demonstrating the community-driven and participatory nature of the expo. 

Langley’s take 

Parts Unlimited President and CEO Paul Langley, a long-time veteran of the powersports aftermarket, shared insights on market trends, dealer priorities, and internal strategies. 

“The market is still healthy. We may have gained some market share, but it’s not on price — we’re focused on operating more efficiently, improving communication internally, and making sure our dealers get what they need,” Langley says. 

He emphasizes that the company’s internal restructuring over the past year has been designed to improve service and responsiveness: 

“We built a more complete team, with dedicated leaders for HR, distribution centers, and technology. This allows us to provide better service to our dealers and helps them manage inventory and cash flow in these uncertain times.” 

Langley also stresses collaboration across the industry: “Even if we compete in some ways, we all need to work together to build resources for the industry. A healthier dealer base benefits everyone. Our focus is on ensuring dealers have the tools to succeed, because when they thrive, the entire aftermarket grows.” 

Tariffs and trade challenges 

A major feature of the Milwaukee NVP Expo was a seminar on tariffs, led by Shannon Bryant, president of Trade IQ and a licensed U.S. Customs broker. The session drew significant attention from dealers and vendors eager to understand how international trade policies affect the aftermarket supply chain. 

Bryant detailed the nuances of Section 301 and Section 232 tariffs, explaining their varied impacts on products sourced from countries including China, India, Canada, and Mexico. 

“Section 301 tariffs range from 7.5% to 100%, and section 232 tariffs hit steel, aluminum, and copper at 50%. Exemptions, like the 25% automotive exemption for non-passenger vehicles or the de minimis exemption for items under $800, can significantly reduce costs if managed correctly,” Bryant says. 

Langley highlights the practical implications for distributors and dealers alike: 

“Tariffs aren’t just a cost — they influence inventory decisions, pricing, and cash flow. Companies that can navigate exemptions, manage documentation, and stay ahead of regulatory changes will be in the best position to serve their dealers.” 

He notes that uncertainty remains the industry’s biggest challenge: 

“Even when court decisions temporarily halt certain tariffs, the potential for reinstatement means every company needs a strategy to respond quickly. That’s why we have a dedicated tariff team tracking these developments daily. Dealers depend on us to mitigate these risks so they can focus on running their businesses.” 

Tech, data and dealer support 

Langley also emphasizes the role of technology and data in helping dealers operate more efficiently: “We’re evolving our systems to provide dealers with better insights into what’s selling and how to manage inventory. The combination of strong relationships and technology is critical in this day and age. Dealers that leverage both have a significant advantage.” 

He adds that Parts Unlimited is committed to being proactive, not reactive: 

“Our goal is to anticipate issues before they impact our dealers. Whether it’s supply chain disruption, tariff changes, or shifts in consumer demand, our team is focused on keeping dealers informed and prepared.” 

Community and collaboration 

The Milwaukee NVP demonstrated that the aftermarket powersports industry is not just about products — it’s about people. Networking and knowledge-sharing were woven throughout the event, from seminars and vendor interactions to the bike show and evening receptions. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from peers, industry experts, and executives like Langley, gaining both inspiration and actionable insights. 

“Events like this remind us why we do what we do,” Langley adds. “It’s not just about selling parts; it’s about building a community where dealers can thrive, where innovation is celebrated, and where we all can work together to grow the market.” 

Looking ahead 

With a successful Milwaukee showing behind them, Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties are already preparing for the next NVP Product Expo in Louisville, Kentucky, scheduled for Jan. 24–25, 2026, at the Kentucky International Convention Center. Langley expressed optimism for continued growth: 

“We see tremendous opportunity ahead. The industry is resilient, dealers are adapting, and we’re ready to provide the tools, resources, and insights they need to succeed. This Expo is a snapshot of that ongoing evolution.” 

As the aftermarket faces challenges from tariffs, supply chain volatility, and changing consumer trends, events like the NVP Expo offer a crucial forum for collaboration, innovation, and shared learning. Milwaukee’s 2025 Expo underscored the importance of connection — between vendors, dealers, and industry leaders — and reinforced the role of Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties as pillars of the aftermarket community.    

Rider reveals 2025 Motorcycle of the Year

Rider Magazine has revealed its 2025 Motorcycle of the Year after narrowing down 10 finalists and one winner from a list of 117 contenders. This year’s winner marks Rider’s 36th Motorcycle of the Year. 

Over the past 35 years, Rider’s editors have reviewed the latest range of motorcycles released annually and narrowed them down to a select group of finalists. Rider says its MOTY is the one it believes “best fulfills its intended purpose and advances the state of motorcycle design, performance, and function.” 

2025 MOTY finalists 

2025 Motorcycle of the Year: Can-Am Canyon Redrock 

The Can-Am Canyon Redrock is unique as it features a two-wheels-in-front Y-architecture. BRP first introduced this category of bike in 2008 when it released the Spyder. Since then, BRP has introduced 13 three-wheel vehicle (3WV) models, the latest being the Canyon range, which dropped this year. To date, Can-Am has sold more than 300,000 3WVs worldwide. 

“We selected the Can-Am Canyon Redrock not only because of its design and features, but also because Can-Am’s three-wheel platform has brought more than 300,000 people into the world of open-air riding,” Rider says. 

Rider emphasized the impact these 3WVs have on the powersports industry. In line with BRP’s motto of “democratize all roads,” the Canyon Redrock was chosen MOTY because it makes adventure accessible to more people by eliminating obstacles many riders would face — tall seat height, tip overs, and limited traction. 

The Canyon Redrock is powered by the smooth Rotax 1330 ACE inline-triple that’s rated at 115 hp and 96 lb-ft of torque and equipped with a 6-speed semi-automatic transmission with reverse. 

Although not your conventional two-wheel bike, Rider says it aligns with the definition outlined in the California Vehicle Code: A motorcycle is a motor vehicle that has a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and is designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. 

This includes Can-Am three-wheelers as well as traditional trikes with two wheels in the back and sidecars. Rider adds that it draws the line at a steering wheel and bucket seat — for example, a Polaris Slingshot. 

Congratulations to Can-Am for the Canyon Redrock, Rider’s 2025 Motorcycle of the Year.   

Triumph plans record 33-model launch for 2026

Triumph Motorcycles is preparing for its biggest-ever product rollout, announcing plans to unveil 33 new and updated products for the 2026 model year. The aggressive launch schedule builds on a record-breaking 2025 fiscal year, where the company sold more than 141,000 motorcycles worldwide — a 136% increase since 2019. 

The move comes as Triumph continues to expand across new segments and markets, supported by a global network of 950 dealers in 68 countries. 

“This momentum we’ve achieved over recent years is extraordinary. Our record sales, expansion into new segments, and the number of upcoming product launches all reflect the quiet optimism we feel about the future,” says Paul Stroud, chief commercial officer at Triumph. “While the market remains challenging for many, Triumph’s focus is clear — delivering motorcycles that are exciting, innovative, and built to the highest standards.” Ten of the 33 motorcycles have already been revealed, including the all-new competition enduro and cross country off-road models, the Speed Triple 1200 RX, and the Scrambler 400 XC. Triumph’s new TXP electric off-road youth bikes — developed with OSET — are also on their way to dealerships, along with the MY26 TF 250-X and TF 450-X, expected by December. 

Triumph will continue unveiling new models through a global announcement series this fall. Following the “Electric Evolution” reveal in early October, “True Originals Never Settle” is set for Oct. 21, and “Made to Upstage” will be introduced on Oct. 28. 

Triumph expanded its off-road lineup with the TXP range, marking the brand’s first step into the youth EV market. 

Dealers worldwide are expected to host winter preview events to showcase the new motorcycles as they begin arriving over the next six months. 

Triumph’s recent success spans multiple categories, from sub-500cc models like the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X — driving strong growth across Asia — to competitive off-road and electric youth markets. The brand has also achieved racing success in AMA SuperMotocross, MXGP, and EnduroGP competition, bolstering its credibility among serious riders. 

Despite global market headwinds, Triumph’s investment in product development remains at record levels. The company’s expansion into new market segments and continued racing success signal confidence in the long-term strength of the motorcycle industry and its dealer network.    

Honda announces its 2026 Rebel cruiser lineup

American Honda recently unveiled its 2026 Rebel lineup, a range of cruisers that the OEM says will attract new motorcyclists while appealing to seasoned riders. 

For the new model year, the spotlight is on the Rebel 300, which becomes Honda’s third powersports model to feature automated clutch control — E-Clutch — effectively lowering the barrier for entry-level riders. Rounding out the lineup are the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100 — the latter features five different trim levels, including three with dual-clutch transmission. 

“The Rebel brand has been a cornerstone of Honda’s on-road lineup throughout its long history, and it continues to resonate with riders of varying ages and backgrounds,” says Colin Miller, manager of public relations at American Honda. “The 2026 Rebel 300 — now with E-Clutch technology — builds on that legacy by combining timeless design with cutting-edge innovation, while the Rebel 500 and Rebel 1100 platforms carry forward the same trusted qualities that have made Honda’s cruisers so popular.” 

Rebel 300 E-Clutch 

Thanks to its low seat height, light weight, controllable power, fun style, and affordable price, the Rebel 300 E-Clutch is a great entry point for new riders and is a common choice for riding schools. For the 2026 model year, Honda says it’s made the Rebel 300 even more approachable, as it comes with Honda E-Clutch technology. 

Colors: 

Matte Black Metallic; Pearl Smoky Gray 

MSRP:

$5,349

Available: December 2025

Rebel 500 

Honda’s best-selling cruiser, the Rebel 500, is an approachable machine that offers comfort, performance, and style. It’s a great option for beginners, those stepping up from a smaller bike, or even for experienced riders seeking an affordable machine. The Rebel 500 is available in a standard version and an SE trim level with select factory-installed accessories. 

Colors: 

MSRP: 

Rebel 1100 

Blending classic lines with advanced technology and engineering, Honda’s Rebel 1100 boasts a list of features focused on comfort and convenience, including rider-friendly tech like Honda RoadSync for seamless connectivity. With five distinct trim levels — ranging from the stripped-back standard to the touring-ready T — there’s a Rebel 1100 version to suit every style of rider. 

Colors: 

MSRP: