Villopoto and Roczen Sweep 2013 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Opener at Hangtown

45th Running of Hangtown Motocross Classic Draws Record Crowd 

SACRAMENTO, CA – May 19, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – With a record event attendance of nearly 25,000 fans, the 45th running of the Red Bull Hangtown Motocross Classic proved to be one for the history books as the 2013 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, kicked off in Sacramento, Calif. on Saturday. After missing an entire season in 2012 due to injury, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto made a valiant return, sweeping both 450 Class motos atop one of the most stacked fields in the series’ recent history. Additionally, Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen claimed his first career 250 Class overall victory at Hangtown.

Yoshimura Suzuki’s James Stewart, who missed most of the second half of the 2012 season, made a comeback of his own by grabbing the Motorcycle-Superstore.com holeshot in Moto 1, garnering one point toward the overall championship holeshot bonus of $25,000 in the 450 Class. However, keeping the lead wasn’t an easy task as three other former 450 Class Champions and several returning contenders chased the 2008 champ early on.

The 450 Class Boasted one of the most stacked fields of racing in recent series history. Courtesy: Simon Cudby

Villopoto took over the lead on the opening lap with Stewart and defending champion Ryan Dungey close in tow. The trio diced it out in the first half of Moto 1 but it was ultimately Villopoto who locked in the moto win, with Dungey in second and Stewart in third.

Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Trey Canard returned to the Hangtown Motocross Classic for the first time since his 250 Class championship-winning season in 2010. Canard made a statement early on as he jumped in behind the lead battle and even closed in on Stewart near the end of Moto 1. Just behind was the epic battle for fifth place between Canard’s teammate Barcia, BTO Sports/KTM’s Andrew Short, Lucas Oil Troy Lee Honda’s Malcolm Stewart, Smartop/MotoConcepts Mike Alessi and 450 Class rookie Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Dean Wilson. Malcolm Stewart, Alessi and Wilson experienced issues that dropped all three in the running order, while Canard and Barcia prevailed, rounding out the top five, with Short sixth.

Dungey, Villopoto, Stewart, Grant and Alessi battled all day at Hangtown. Courtesy: Simon Cudby

James Stewart began Moto 2 in similar fashion to the first, grabbing the Motorcycle-Superstore holeshot once again and taking over the points lead in the season-long chase for the end-of-the-year cash prize. From there, Stewart engaged in a battle for the lead with Dungey, while Villopoto followed close behind. Near the halfway mark, Villopoto made his move to the front, leaving Dungey and Stewart to fight for the second place position. Dungey bested Stewart for the second place spot in Moto 2, giving the Minnesota native second overall for the day with a pair of second place finishes. Stewart, the 2012 Hangtown winner, scored (3-3) for third place overall. Villopoto went on to secure the first overall win of the 2013 season with a score of (1-1).

“Hangtown has always been a rough place for me so for the bike to feel like it did today was amazing,” Villopoto said. “I’m obviously happy with that and happy with how I rode. I feel like we’re in a really good place and it’s only going to get better from here.”

450 Class podium: (left) Dungey, (center) Villopoto, (right) Stewart. Courtesy: Simon Cudby

The 250 Class was set to be a showcase with a full lineup of returning contenders, including defending 250 Class Champion Blake Baggett. Fresh off a wrist injury, the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki rider had no reservations about getting to the front early on as he grabbed the Motorcycle-Superstore holeshot in Moto 1. However, the Red Bull KTM duo of Marvin Musquin and Ken Roczen quickly gained control of the lead. Musquin led three laps before his teammate commanded the lead for the remainder of Moto 1.

Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen claimed a career first overall victory in the 250 Class. Courtesy: Simon Cudby

GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac began the first moto just outside of the top five but made his way into podium contention early on. Tomac first set his sights on Musquin and then made his way around Baggett to eventually secure second place in Moto 1. Baggett finished third, while Musquin took fourth and MyPlash Star RacingYamaha/Metal Mulisha’s Cooper Webb rounded out the top five in his Pro class debut.

In Moto 2, GEICO Honda’s Zach Bell grabbed the Motorcycle-Superstore holeshot but it was once again Roczen who jumped out front on the opening lap. Roczen set the pace early on and Baggett remained close in tow throughout the first half of the race. Roczen eventually put a gap on the defending champion in the final laps of Moto 2, going on to secure his first career victory in the 250 Class.

“Coming here, I didn’t really know what to expect because I sort of took some time to have fun during the week off [between supercross and motocross],” Roczen said. “It’s important to me to keep things fun but next week it’s time to put in some work and make my performance even better.”

250 Class podium: (left) Tomac, (center) Roczen, (right) Baggett. Courtesy: Simon Cudby

Baggett’s score of (3-2) was enough to give him second overall for the day, while Tomac went (2-3) for third overall. Musquin captured a pair of fourth places to claim fourth overall, while GEICO Honda’s Zach Osborne rounded out the top five overall with a (9-5) score.

New Zealand’s Courtney Duncan took the opening round of the Women’s Motocross (WMX) Triple Crown by storm, sweeping both motos of the day in her WMX debut. Duncan bested Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Sayaka Kaneshiro, who finished second overall with a (2-3) score and Texas native Taylor Higgins rounded out the overall podium. Six-time WMX champion Jessica Patterson finished second in Moto 2 but bad luck in the first moto gave her 10th overall for the day.

New Zealand’s Courtney Duncan swept both motos of the WMX Class. Courtesy: Simon Cudby

The WMX Triple Crown returns to the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship June 8 for the GEICO Hangtown National in Mt. Morris, Pa. Round 2 of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship heads to Lakewood, Colo. for the Rockwell Watches Thunder Valley National next weekend, May 25.

For tickets and additional information, please visit AlliSports.com/motocross and LIKE the Pro Motocross Facebook page and follow @ProMotocross on Twitter and Instagram for exclusive content and additional information on the latest Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship news.

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship
Red Bull Hangtown Motocross Classic
Prairie City OHV Park – Sacramento
May 18, 2013
Round 1 of 12

450 Class (Moto Finish)

1. Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki (1-1)
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM (2-2)
3. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki (3-3)
4. Trey Canard, Oklahoma City, Okla., Honda (4-4)
5. Justin Barcia, Monroe, N.Y., Honda (5-5)
6. Ryan Sipes, Elizabethtown, Ky., Suzuki (8-7)
7. Andrew Short, Colorado Springs, Colo., KTM (6-10)
8. Mike Alessi, Victorville, Calif., Suzuki (12-6)
9. Tyla Rattray, Durban, South Africa, Kawasaki (9-9)
10. Weston Peick, Wildomar, Calif., Suzuki (13-8)

450 Class Championship Standings

1. Ryan Villopoto, Seattle, Wash., Kawasaki, 50
2. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., KTM,44
3. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki,40
4. Trey Canard, Oklahoma City, Okla., Honda,36
5. Justin Barcia, Pinetta, Fla., Honda, 32
6. Ryan Sipes, Elizabethtown, Ky., Suzuki, 27
7. Andrew Short, Smithville, Texas, KTM, 26
8. Mike Alessi, Victorville, Calif., Suzuki, 24
9. Tyla Rattray, Wildomar, Calif., Kawasaki, 24
10. Weston Peick, Wildomar, Calif., Suzuki, 21

250 Class (Moto Finish)

1. Ken Roczen, Apolda, Germany, KTM (1-1)
2. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki (3-2)
3. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda (2-3)
4. Marvin Musquin, La Reole, France, KTM (4-4)
5. Zach Osborne, Abingdon, Va., Honda (9-5)
6. Kyle Cunningham, Aledo, Texas, Yamaha (8-7)
7. Jason Anderson, Edgewood, N.M., Suzuki (12-6)
8. Jeremy Martin, Millville, Minn., Yamaha (7-13)
9. Joseph Savatgy, Cairo, Ga. KTM (10-11)
10. Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., Kawasaki (13-9)

250 Class Championship Standings

1. Ken Roczen, Apolda, Germany, KTM, 50
2. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Honda, 42
3. Blake Baggett, Grand Terrace, Calif., Kawasaki, 42
4. Marvin Musquin, Corona, Calif., KTM, 36
5. Zach Osborne, Abingdon, Va., Honda, 28
6. Kyle Cunningham, Aledo, Texas, Yamaha, 27
7. Jason Anderson, Edgewood, N.M., Suzuki, 24
8. Jeremy Martin, Millville, Minn., Yamaha, 22
9. Joseph Savatgy, Cairo, Ga. KTM, 21
10. Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., Kawasaki, 20

WMX Class (Moto Finish)

1. Courtney Duncan, New Zealand, Yamaha (1-1)
2. Sayaka Kaneshiro, Japan, Honda (2-3)
3. Taylor Higgins, Mesquite, Texas, Honda (4-4)
4. Mackenzie Tricker, Australia, Yamaha (3-6)
5. Jacqueline Strong, Sedona, Ariz., KTM (6-5)
6. Alexah Pearson, Sacramento, Calif., KTM (5-8)
7. Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Kawasaki (7-7)
8. Sara Pettersson, Sweden, KTM (8-9)
9. Hailey Larson, Mill Valley, Calif., Honda (9-10)
10. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (30-2)

WMX Triple Crown Points

1. Courtney Duncan, New Zealand, Yamaha 50
2. Sayaka Kaneshiro, Japan, Honda 42
3. Taylor Higgins, Mesquite, Texas, Honda 36
4. Mackenzie Tricker, Australia, Yamaha 35
5. Jacqueline Strong, Sedona, Ariz., KTM 31
6. Alexah Pearson, Sacramento, Calif., KTM 29
7. Mariana Balbi, Brazil, Kawasaki 28
8. Sara Pettersson, Sweden, KTM 25
9. Hailey Larson, Mill Valley, Calif., Honda 23
10. Jessica Patterson, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha 22

MX Sports Pro Racing

MX Sports Pro Racing manages and produces the world’s most prestigious professional motocross series – the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. The industry leader in off road power sport event production and management, its mission is to showcase the sport of professional motocross competition at events throughout the United States. Through its various racing properties, partnerships and affiliates, MX Sports Pro Racing organizes events for thousands of action sports athletes each year and attracts millions of motorsports spectators. Visit www.mxsportsproracing.com.

Alli Sports

Alli Sports is a media, event and branded content company that specializes in action, adventure, and adrenaline based sports.  Alli Properties include the Dew Tour, Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, the Red Bull Signature Series, GoPro World of Adventure Sports and Octane Academy; Alli Media, which creates original content, produces and presents content with partners and distributes content through a variety of channels; and Alli enterprises consisting of E-commerce, event merchandise and branded licensed product.  Alli Sports is a division of the NBC Sports Group.  More information can be found at www.Allisports.com.

AMA Pro Racing 

AMA Pro Racing is the premier professional motorcycle racing organization in North America, operating a full schedule of events and championships for a variety of motorcycle disciplines.  Learn more about AMA Pro Racing at www.amaproracing.com.

NBC Sports Group

When the Comcast-NBCUniversal transaction was completed in January 2011, the sports assets of the two companies combined to form the NBC Sports Group, which serves sports fans 24/7 with premier live events, insightful studio shows, and compelling original programming. The sports media company consists of a unique array of broadcast television, cable television, radio and digital sports assets, including NBC Sports, NBC Olympics, NBC Sports Network, Golf Channel, 11 NBC Sports Regional Networks, NBC Sports Radio and all of their respective digital properties. The NBC Sports Group possesses an unparalleled collection of television rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the International Olympic Committee and United States Olympic Committee, the NFL, NHL, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, USGA, Churchill Downs, Premier League, MLS, Tour de France, French Open, Formula One, IndyCar and many more.

Lucas Oil Products 

Lucas Oil is a worldwide leader in the production of oils, lubricants and additives. Based in Corona, Calif., Lucas Oil Products is one of the fastest-growing additive lines in the consumer automotive industry, featuring a premium line of oils, lubricants and problem-solving performance additives. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas Oil Products has established itself as the top-selling additive line in the American truck-stop industry.  Lucas Oil is involved in an array of motorsports sponsorships, including the “Official Motor Oil of the Pro Motocross Championship.” Visit www.LucasOil.com.

Supercross LIVE! – Changing of the Guard – Episode 2

May 17, 2013, – (Motor Sports Newswire) – 2013 brought an array of talented riders to the track for an action packed Monster Energy Supercross season. This episode of Changing of the Guard takes you through Davi Millsaps’ role in the 2013 season.

Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, is an off-road motorcycle racing competition, produced inside a stadium that seats no less than 35,000 fans, where dirt is brought in and sculpted using construction equipment. Widely regarded as the king of extreme sports, AMA Supercross is considered the NASCAR of motocross. Some of the world’s greatest athletes compete in what has been described as the most physically demanding sport in existence Top supercross riders James Stewart, Chad Reed, Ryan Dungey and more battle it out for the 2013 AMA Supercross crown.

Monster Energy® AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, is the premier off-road motorcycle racing circuit in the world, produced inside the world’s most elite stadiums. Monster Energy® Supercross tracks are man-made inside the stadium. Some of the sport’s marquee names include Chad Reed, James Stewart and former supercross greats Jeremy McGrath and Ricky Carmichael. Regarded as the king of action sports, supercross has been described as one of the most physically demanding sports. Monster Energy® Supercross can be seen on CBS Sports and SPEED Channel.

Visit us on our official website at http://www.SupercrossOnline.com
Become a fan of us on Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/SupercrossLive
Follow us on Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/SupercrossLive
Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/SupercrossLive

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Fitch Upgrades 2 & Affirms 3 Classes of Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust 2011-2

NEW YORK, NY – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – As part of its ongoing surveillance process, Fitch Ratings takes the following rating actions on the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust 2011-2:

–Class A-2 notes affirmed at ‘AAAsf’; Outlook Stable;

–Class A-3 notes affirmed at ‘AAAsf’; Outlook Stable;

–Class A-4 notes affirmed at ‘AAAsf’; Outlook Stable;

–Class B notes upgraded to ‘AAAsf’ from ‘AAsf’; Outlook to Stable from Positive;

–Class C notes upgraded to ‘AAsf’ from ‘Asf’; Outlook to Stable from Positive.

KEY RATING DRIVERS:

The rating upgrades to the class B and C notes are a result of low loss performance and strong loss coverage. The transaction has continued to perform within Fitch’s expectations with cumulative net losses currently at 1.04%. The affirmations on the class A-2, A-3, and A-4 notes reflect loss coverage levels consistent with the current ratings. In addition, under the credit enhancement structure, the securities are able to withstand stress scenarios consistent with the upgraded ratings and make full payments to investors in accordance with the terms of the documents.

The ratings reflect the quality of Harley-Davidson’s retail motorcycle loan originations, the strength of its servicing capabilities, and the sound financial and legal structure of the transaction.

RATING SENSITIVITY:

Unanticipated increases in the frequency of defaults and loss severity could produce loss levels higher than the current projected base case loss proxy and impact available loss coverage and multiples levels for the transactions. Lower loss coverage could impact ratings and Rating Outlooks, depending on the extent of the decline in coverage.

In Fitch’s initial review of the transactions, the notes were found to have limited sensitivity to a 1.5x and 2.5x increase of Fitch’s base case loss expectation. To date, the transactions have exhibited strong performance with losses well within Fitch’s initial expectations with rising loss coverage and multiple levels. As such, continued performance consistent with recent performance for the transactions would most likely result in positive rating actions. Conversely, a material deterioration in performance would have to occur within the asset pools to have potential negative impact on the outstanding ratings.

Initial Key Rating Drivers and Rating Sensitivity are further detailed in Fitch’s Oct. 31, 2011 presale report, available by clicking on the link at the end of the press release.

Additional information is available at ‘www.fitchratings.com‘.

Applicable Criteria and Related research:

–’U.S. Auto Loan ABS Rating Criteria’ (April 10, 2013);

–’Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria’ (June 6, 2012);

–’Representations, Warranties, and Enforcement Mechanisms in Global Structured Finance Transactions’ (April 17, 2012);

–’Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust 2011-2′(Oct. 31, 2011);

–’Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust 2011-2 –Appendix ‘(October 31, 2011).

Applicable Criteria and Related Research

Rating Criteria for U.S. Auto Loan ABS

http://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=704137

Global Structured Finance Rating Criteria

http://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=679923

Representations, Warranties, and Enforcement Mechanisms in Global Structured Finance Transactions — Amended

http://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=676496

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust 2011-2 (US ABS)

http://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=654769

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust 2011-2 — Appendix

http://www.fitchratings.com/creditdesk/reports/report_frame.cfm?rpt_id=655051

Additional Disclosure

Solicitation Status

http://www.fitchratings.com/gws/en/disclosure/solicitation?pr_id=791460

ALL FITCH CREDIT RATINGS ARE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMERS. PLEASE READ THESE LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMERS BY FOLLOWING THIS LINK: HTTP://FITCHRATINGS.COM/UNDERSTANDINGCREDITRATINGS. IN ADDITION, RATING DEFINITIONS AND THE TERMS OF USE OF SUCH RATINGS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE AGENCY’S PUBLIC WEBSITE ‘WWW.FITCHRATINGS.COM‘. PUBLISHED RATINGS, CRITERIA AND METHODOLOGIES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THIS SITE AT ALL TIMES. FITCH’S CODE OF CONDUCT, CONFIDENTIALITY, CONFLICTS OF INTEREST, AFFILIATE FIREWALL, COMPLIANCE AND OTHER RELEVANT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FROM THE ‘CODE OF CONDUCT’ SECTION OF THIS SITE. FITCH MAY HAVE PROVIDED ANOTHER PERMISSIBLE SERVICE TO THE RATED ENTITY OR ITS RELATED THIRD PARTIES. DETAILS OF THIS SERVICE FOR RATINGS FOR WHICH THE LEAD ANALYST IS BASED IN AN EU-REGISTERED ENTITY CAN BE FOUND ON THE ENTITY SUMMARY PAGE FOR THIS ISSUER ON THE FITCH WEBSITE.

Contacts

Fitch Ratings
Primary Analyst
Eugene Kushnir, +1-212-908-0830
Associate Director
Fitch, Inc.
One State Street Plaza
New York, NY 10004
or
Committee Chairperson
Steven Stubbs, +1-212-908-0676
Senior Director
or
Media Relations
Sandro Scenga, +1-212-908-0278
sandro.scenga@fitchratings.com

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American Honda Announces Dan Betley as New Team Manager

TORRANCE, CA – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda proudly announces Dan Betley as the new Honda Muscle Milk team manager beginning with the opening round of the 2013 Motocross season at the Hangtown Classic in Sacramento, CA. Betley successfully filled the role during the 2013 Supercross season as he led the team to two victories and six additional podiums.

Since he began his career with Honda in 1989, Betley has held multiple positions within the race team, including his most recent as Engine Development and R&D specialist. He has worked with many high profile motocross champions such as Jeff Stanton, Jeremy McGrath and Ricky Carmichael, making him highly qualified for the role as team manager.

“Dan has been with Team Honda for many years and has played an important role in the team’s success,” explained Honda Race Team Director Ray Conway. “It seems natural for him to move up to Team Manager and he has done a great job filling in during the 2013 Supercross season.”

“I’m looking forward to transitioning into my new role,” explained Betley. “It’s a challenging job but I got a good feel for what it entails while filling in during the 2013 Supercross season and I’m grateful Honda chose me to continue as team manager. We have two extremely talented riders in Trey Canard and Justin Barcia and a great team behind them, so I am looking forward to a successful Motocross season.”

About Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. was established in 1959 and is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and side-by-sides in the U.S. The American Honda Motorcycle Division is responsible for the sales, marketing, and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

About Muscle Milk

Muscle Milk® Ready-to-Drink is a protein-enhanced functional beverage that promotes workout recovery, lean muscle growth, and sustained energy. Muscle Milk takes the guesswork out of high performance nutrition, delivering a precise blend of premium proteins, complex carbohydrates, functional fats, vitamins & minerals. CytoSport™, the maker of Muscle Milk®, is among the largest sport nutrition protein beverage companies in the U.S. and offers a complete line of protein-enhanced powders, shakes and bars. Muscle Milk® was named Ready-to-Drink Beverage of the Year by bodybuilding.com, Best Functional Beverage and Beverage of the Year by BevNet and Company of the Year by Beverage Forum presented by Beverage Marketing Corporation and Beverage World.

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Annual Sales of Electric Motorcycles and Scooters in North America Will Multiply Nearly Ten-Fold by 2018, Forecasts Navigant Research

BOULDER, CO – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The vast majority of electric motorcycles and scooters sold worldwide are sold in China. To date, little demand for these vehicles has existed outside Asia Pacific, with the exception of a few Western European countries such as Germany and Spain. According to a recent report from Navigant Research, that will begin to change in the next several years: sales of e-motorcycles and e-scooters in North America will grow from a little more than 4,000 in 2012 to more than 36,000 in 2018, a nearly ten-fold expansion, the study concludes.

“The market for e-motorcycles and e-scooters will grow as manufacturers provide more robust features, including longer range capability, better performance, and in the case of e-motorcycles, higher speeds,” says Dave Hurst, principal research analyst with Navigant Research. “The North American market is still very much in its infancy, but the United States will see strong growth, with a compound annual growth rate of greater than 50 percent through 2018.”

In Asia Pacific, scooters and low-powered motorcycles are widely used as everyday transportation. In North America, by contrast, motorcycles and scooters (including e-motorcycles and e-scooters) are more likely to be used for recreation than as a primary form of transportation. The interest in higher-powered and touring motorcycles is higher in North America than other regions, and so e-motorcycles and e-scooters are often purchased as complements to other forms of transportation.

The report, “Electric Motorcycles and Scooters”, provides a comprehensive examination of the market drivers and barriers, technology issues, governmental incentives and regulations, and key drivers of growth in the e-motorcycles and e-scooters industry. The report includes e-motorcycle and e-scooter sales forecasts through 2018, as well as detailed profiles of key industry players. The report also provides forecasts for lithium ion and lead-acid battery technologies used in e-scooters and e-motorcycles. An Executive Summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website.

About Navigant Research

Navigant Research, the dedicated research arm of Navigant, provides market research and benchmarking services for rapidly changing and often highly regulated industries. In the energy sector, Navigant Research focuses on in-depth analysis and reporting about global clean technology markets. The team’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Smart Utilities, Smart Transportation, Smart Industry, and Smart Buildings sectors. Additional information about Navigant Research can be found at www.navigantresearch.com.

About Navigant

Navigant (NYSE: NCI) is a specialized, global expert services firm dedicated to assisting clients in creating and protecting value in the face of critical business risks and opportunities. Through senior level engagement with clients, Navigant professionals combine technical expertise in Disputes and Investigations, Economics, Financial Advisory and Management Consulting, with business pragmatism in the highly regulated Construction, Energy, Financial Services and Healthcare industries to support clients in addressing their most critical business needs. More information about Navigant can be found at www.navigant.com.

* The information contained in this press release concerning the report, “Electric Motorcycles and Scooters,” is a summary and reflects Navigant Research’s current expectations based on market data and trend analysis. Market predictions and expectations are inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release or the report. Please refer to the full report for a complete understanding of the assumptions underlying the report’s conclusions and the methodologies used to create the report. Neither Navigant Research nor Navigant undertakes any obligation to update any of the information contained in this press release or the report.

Contacts

Navigant Research
Richard Martin, +1-303-493-5483
richard.martin@navigant.com
or
Laverne Murach, +1-202-481-7336
laverne.murach@navigant.com

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Polaris Industries Inc. to Present at B. Riley & Co. Investor Conference

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) - Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) announced today that it will present at the B. Riley & Co. 14^th Annual Investor Conference at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. PDT. Scott Wine, Chairman and CEO of Polaris, will provide a brief review of the Company’s past performance as well as an update on current business conditions.

A webcast of the presentation will be available by accessing the Polaris website at www.polaris.com/irhome. A replay of the webcast will be available for one week following the event. The presentation for this event will also be posted on our website under “Investor Relations/Presentations”.

About Polaris

Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry with annual 2012 sales of $3.2 billion. Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER^® and RZR^® side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles and on-road electric/hybrid powered vehicles.

Polaris is among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles and has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with the Victory and Indian motorcycle brands. Additionally, Polaris continues to invest in the global on-road small vehicle industry with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), Goupil Industrie SA, Aixam Mega S.A.S., and internally developed vehicles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Polaris and KLIM branded apparel and Polaris accessories and parts.

Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII”, and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.

Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicle accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime at www.polaris.com.

Source: Polaris Industries Inc.

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Yamaha OHV Access Initiative Announces First Quarter 2013 Awards

Yamaha GRANTs from California to Vermont Advocate Safe, Responsible OHV Riding and Open, Sustainable Access to Trails and Riding Areas

CYPRESS, CA – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., has approved first quarter awards providing funding from its OHV Access Initiative, the industry leader in Guaranteeing Responsible Access to our Nation’s Trails (GRANTs), to deserving organizations across the country.

“Yamaha has approved new GRANTs to support organizations that span the country, from California to Vermont, serving the mission to promote safe, responsible riding and open, sustainable riding areas,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha ATV and SxS marketing manager. “Yamaha’s reach through the OHV Access Initiative is national, but the heart of the program resides in the local communities that enjoy increased family fun and economic development through safe, responsible OHV access.”

In just this past quarter, the Yamaha OHV Access Initiative awarded more than $85,000 to a variety of organizations including local riding clubs, regional BLM offices and the National FFA, illustrating the breadth of the program’s reach. The 2013 Q1 Yamaha GRANT recipients are:

• Bureau of Land Use Management, El Centro Field Office, California
• Coastal Off Road Riders Association, South Carolina
• Colorado Backcountry Trailriders Association
• Dirt, Inc., Idaho
• Electric City Dirt Riders, Montana
• National FFA Foundation
• Northwest Wyoming Off High Vehicle Alliance
• St. Helen Dirtpackers ORV Club, Michigan
• Vermont ATV Sportsman Association

Yamaha’s GRANT to the Northwest Wyoming Off Highway Vehicle Alliance – the first organization from Wyoming to submit a qualified application into the program – raises the total number of states in which GRANTs have been approved to 38.

Yamaha is actively seeking qualified projects at local, state and federal levels. The current OHV Access Initiative GRANT application form and guidelines are available online at www.yamahaohvaccess.com. The next deadline to submit a GRANT application is Saturday, June 29, 2013.

Follow us at https://twitter.com/YamahaOHVAccess and www.facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors

About the Yamaha OHV Access Initiative

The Yamaha OHV Access Initiative is the industry leader in Guaranteeing Responsible Access to our Nation’s Trails (GRANTs). Through this program, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of trails, maintained and rehabilitated countless riding areas, improved staging areas, built bridges over fish-bearing streams and partnered with local riding communities across the country to improve the OHV experience. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from non-profit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state and local public land use agencies and other members of the OHV community in the United States. A committee then reviews each application and awards GRANTs to deserving projects. Examples of appropriate projects for GRANTs include, but are not limited to:

• Trail development, restoration and maintenance
• Trail signage and map production
• Staging area construction, renovation and maintenance
• Land stewardship, trail safety and education

Updated guidelines, an application form and information on the OHV Access Initiative are available here. For specific questions about the OHV Access Initiative, call Yamaha’s dedicated OHV Access Initiative Hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email OHVAccess@yamaha-motor.com or write to: Yamaha OHV Access Initiative Review Committee, 6555 Katella Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630-5101.

About Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.

Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., (YMUS), a leader in the motorsports market, makes the toughest, most capable and versatile ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings also include motorcycles, outboard motors, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, boats, outdoor power equipment, accessories, apparel and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States.

Headquartered in Cypress, Calif., since its incorporation in 1976, Yamaha also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information on Yamaha, visit www.yamaha-motor.com.

 

Contacts

Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
Van Holmes, 714-761-7370
van_holmes@yamaha-motor.com

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Zero Motorcycles Signs Landmark Fleet Agreement To Provide Electric Motorcycles To Hong Kong Government

 

• Yuen Ho Trading Company Announced as Official Zero Distributor in Hong Kong Brokering New Fleet Deal
• Hong Kong Police Department and Other Government Agencies to Begin Using Zero S Police Motorcycles

HONG KONG, May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, today announced it has signed its first eastern Asia distributor, Yuen Ho Trading Company, Ltd. (YHT), based in Hong Kong. In celebration of the occasion, Zero Motorcycles representatives were in Hong Kong presenting the Hong Kong government with 59 MY 2012 Zero S motorcycles as part of Zero’s single largest fleet sale to date. The majority of the units will be provided to the Hong Kong Police Department for patrolling and special event purposes with a small allocation of the police motorcycles going to the Hong Kong Airport Police for traffic enforcement. The Hong Kong Agricultural, Fisheries and Conservation Department will be using select motorcycles at country parks. The Transport Department will be using a selected number of motorcycles to conduct motorcycle rider examinations, and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will be using their Zero S motorcycles for general transportation throughout Hong Kong supporting public parks. All 59 motorcycles were purchased by the Hong Kong government through YHT. Zero Motorcycles participated in an open RFP process and was awarded the contract based on meeting criteria in regards to performance, reliability, after sales commitments and the low cost of operation of the Zero S motorcycle.

“This is an incredible new relationship that has been forged between YHT, the Hong Kong government and Zero Motorcycles. Our international authority fleet programs continue to be one of our most successful channels for distribution and we look forward to working with the Hong Kong government on current and future programs,” said John Lloyd , Vice President, Global Sales, Zero Motorcycles. “We couldn’t put this program together without YHT. They are an invaluable new partner for Zero. It’s our intention to keep securing strong partnerships like YHT in Asia as it’s one of the fastest growing e-markets in the world.”

The Hong Kong government will be using the Zero S motorcycle for a series of different activities, which includes: traffic enforcement and patrolling, special police events, marathon support, country park service and more. All 59 motorcycles are based on Zero’s highly popular 2012 MY Zero S. The Zero S has an approximate range of 89 miles on a single charge with a top speed of 88 miles per hour. The Police motorcycles have been up fitted with a series of components developed exclusively for traffic enforcement.

“We are glad to see the Hong Kong Government’s order become the largest order in Asia. Deploying electric vehicles like the Zero S helps reduce Hong Kong‘s carbon footprint. We are very passionate about contributing to environmental protection,” says Ophelia Lin , General Manager, Yuen Ho Trading Company, Ltd. “To introduce Zero to Hong Kong means a small but impactful contribution in the long term.”

Leading up to a highly visible Zero launching ceremony, representatives from Zero held a training session with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), and conducted rider training for government riders preparing to take part in using their MY 2012 Zero S motorcycles within their particular venues.

The launching ceremony took place on Thursday, May 16, 2013 at the Hong Kong Science Park at the Atrium Link. Guest speakers included:

• Mr. Scott Shaw , Chief Commercial Consul, American Consulate General
• Mr. Edmond Ho , Principal Environmental Protection Officer (Mobile Sources), Environmental Protection Department
• Various governmental officials/representatives from the Hong Kong Police Department, EMSD, Fire Services and US Consulate staff
• Representatives from various commercial companies, driving schools and educational institutions
• Media outlets

For more information on Zero Motorcycles visit www.zeromotorcycles.com.

About Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles is committed to transforming the motorcycling experience by bringing to market highly innovative electric motorcycles that offer exceptional value and performance. Zero is powered by innovation, driven by passion, guided by integrity and measured by results. Through extensive research, insight and experience, Zero combines the art and science of motorcycle development to create and manufacture products that excite consumers and inspire brand loyalty. Zero is determined to be the preeminent global electric motorcycle company.

Follow Zero Motorcycles on Twitter @ZeroMC, become a fan of Zero Motorcycles on Facebook and check out what Zero is doing on YouTube at www.youtube.com/zeromotorcycles.

For more information on Zero Motorcycles or to learn more about its complete motorcycle line including the new 2013 Zero S, Zero DS, Zero FX, Zero XU and Zero MX motorcycles, visit: www.zeromotorcycles.com.

SOURCE: Zero Motorcycles

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Motorcycle Rental and Tours Mega Company Launches Mobile Optimized Site for Easy Access

LOS ANGELES, CA – May 16, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – EagleRider, the world’s largest motorcycle rental, tours, sales, service, and parts & accessories company, launches the mobile version of its rentals and tours site, www.eaglerider.com. The EagleRider team has been working diligently to stay on top of the growing demand of mobile usage. As mobile usage has significantly increased over the past few years, a mobile optimized site was pivotal to meet the demand.

EagleRider.com’s mobile version takes all of the key features and properly displays them on the customer’s device. While the desktop version of the website fits well on a desktop, it is not well suited or designed to fit a mobile device; the new development will greatly enhance the user experience. A user can finalize all their motorcycle rental vacation plans as well as get information and inquire about motorcycle tour packages, right from their mobile device. This is major improvement for EagleRider, as mobile optimization currently accounts for approximately 30% of the travel website’s traffic.

“We believe that a continuously improving mobile platform for EagleRider will be a major factor behind offering excellent customer service, while maintaining ongoing relationship with our customers and growing our business,” said Hal Oreif, Chief Technology and Product Officer at EagleRider. When asked why the mobile version of EagleRider.com was so important, “A majority of our customers are domestic and international working professionals that need the convenience of conducting businesses on their mobile device, it is very important that we cater to that,” added Mr. Oreif.

About EagleRider

Pioneering the motorcycle rental concept in 1992, EagleRider is now a full service motorcycle experience company offering Harley-Davidson®, Honda®, BMW® rentals, one way rentals, and guided and self-drive tours. With over 100 locations, EagleRider is the world’s largest motorcycle travel company also offering service, parts and accessories, and motorcycle sales including an array of features for individuals and dealers looking to buy and/or sell their bikes. For more information, please visit www.EagleRider.com for EagleRider rentals and tours, www.UsedMotorcycles.net for EagleRider sales, and Store.EagleRider.com for parts and accessories. Like us on Facebook and Twitter.

CONTACT:
Bardia Peake
(310) 536-6777
bardia@eaglerider.com

SOURCE: EagleRider

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Performance Upgrade For Your Retro Ride

SANTA ANA, CA – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The Honda CB1100 has caused quite a stir since its introduction. It’s timeless style remains popular with riders old and new. The addition of a Two Brothers exhaust is exactly what you need to spice up your CB1100. Its V.A.L.E.™ satin finished stainless steel connector tube creates a perfect fit for maximum power and great sound.

The Two Brothers M-2 Slip-on exhaust system for the Honda CB1100 is available in Carbon Fiber, Aluminum or Titanium finishes.

About Two Brothers Racing

Two Brothers Racing has been producing championship winning products since 1985. From roots as a factory-backed AMA Superbike team to producing world-class performance exhaust systems, Two Brothers Racing knows what it takes to excel. Whether you ride a street bike, dirt bike, ATV or UTV, Two Brothers Racing produces a high-quality, performance-enhancing product to ensure your machine is operating at the Absolute Top Level™. For additional information, visit us online at www.TwoBros.com

Two Brothers Racing performance products are intended for race use only.

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