MIC Welcomes Inaugural Members of New Dealer Membership Class Advisory Council

22 05 2013

Bob Althoff, Sandy Stroope to Help Support MIC’s New Dealer Members

IRVINE, CA – May 21, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -  The Motorcycle Industry Council continues to welcome dealers and retailers to its membership for the first time since 1974 and today welcomed the first two members of the new MIC Dealer Advisory Council. Bob Althoff, owner of A.D. Farrow Co. in Columbus, OH, and Sandy Stroope, owner of Boat World Honda Polaris in Harrison, AR, are the inaugural members of what will be an eight-member council.

Sandy-StroopeBob-Althoff

“The MIC’s new Dealer Advisory Council is an integral part of the support system that we are providing to our members,” said MIC President and CEO Tim Buche. “Both Bob Althoff and Sandy Stroope have dedicated their lives and careers to the powersports industry. The value of the Dealer Advisory Council is in listening, discussing, discerning and acting on key issues that manufacturers, dealers and retailers alike can focus on to improve the rider experience. We believe a solid Dealer Advisory Council with members like Bob and Sandy will create better understanding between members and help us all improve.”

The Dealer Advisory Council is intended to represent the needs and interests of these new dealer members. The council will advise the Board and Aftermarket Committee, while the Board will direct Dealer/Retailer dues revenue to market expansion, training and education, public policy and government relations activities.

“It’s an honor to be asked to join the MIC’s Dealer Advisory Council,” said Althoff. “I was one of 25 dealers from 18 states to initially join the MIC and I’m proud to be one of the first two members to serve on the advisory council. I believe that it’s crucial for powersports dealers to come together and help support the MIC as they help support our industry as a whole. I look forward to being a contributing member of this united group and to assisting the new dealer members as they join our growing numbers.”

As owner of A.D. Farrow Co., Althoff runs the oldest Harley-Davidson dealership in the U.S. The venerable company, which has three Columbus, OH, locations, recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Additionally, Althoff was recently awarded the Dealernews Don J. Brown Lifetime Achievement Award, given to representatives of the powersports retail community who have demonstrated a lifelong dedication to the business, the lifestyle, the community and the sport.

Stroope is the owner and operator of Boat World Honda Polaris in Harrison, AR, a multi-line dealership with a decidedly off-road clientele. He is also chairman of the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission and president of the Arkansas Motorcycle Dealer Association.

“I’m extremely proud to serve on the new MIC Dealer Advisory Council,” said Stroope. “As a dealer, I’ve always felt it’s important to be active in your local community. As new members of the MIC, we as dealers now have the opportunity to participate in, and help develop, the larger powersports community that we all have in common. I’m excited about the potential of this advisory committee, and I’m looking forward to working with the MIC and with dealers nationwide to help promote our sport.”

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit, national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers, distributors, dealers and retailers of motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, ROVs, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts, accessories and related goods and services, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants.

The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at www.mic.org.

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GBC Motorsports Prepares for White Knuckle Event

21 05 2013

ANAHEIM, CA – May 21, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – GBC Motorsports returns as an official event sponsor of the Brimstone Recreation White Knuckle Event presented by Yamaha. The annual Memorial Day weekend celebration draws racers and enthusiasts from across the country for the Wild Mountain Rampage and other attractions and events.

GBC Motorsports is dedicated to sponsoring ATV and SXS events like the White Knuckle Event and ATV & SXS Roundup (pictured here), held annually at Brimstone Recreation in Huntsville, TN.

GBC Motorsports is dedicated to sponsoring ATV and SXS events like the White Knuckle Event and ATV & SXS Roundup (pictured here), held annually at Brimstone Recreation in Huntsville, TN.

Brimstone Recreation’s big spring event, set for May 24-26, features a variety of fun activities for ATV and SXS riders, including the Pro Armor Moonshine Run, mud bogs, drag races, and guided rides through more than 300 miles of roads and trails. The White Knuckle event is always capped off with a performance by a country music artist, and this year Jamey Johnson will take the stage to wrap up a memorable weekend for all in attendance.

GBC Motorsports’ Kory Ellis will be set up in the vendor area with a full lineup of tires on display. GNCC Pro Johnny Gallagher and up-and-coming Pro-Am racer Randy Hamilton will be on hand to sign autographs at the GBC booth, so be sure to stop by and chat with ATV racing icons past and present. GBC will also be offering special promotions throughout the event so be sure to follow GBC on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for the chance to get some GBC gear.

For more information on the event, including registration, full schedule and rules, visit www.whiteknuckleevent.com or www.brimstonerecreation.com. Learn more about GBC’s full line of ATV and SXS tires at www.gbcmtorsports.com and get the latest news and special offers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Polaris to Sponsor Mystik Lubricants Terracross Championship

18 05 2013

Minneapolis, MN – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – For the second year in a row, the Mystik® Lubricants Terracross™ Championship will be presented by Polaris RZR®. The series, known as rough, tough and muddy racing, invites some of the most recognized power sports and action sports athletes, such as Daryl Rath, Doug Gust, Chris Burandt, Paul Thacker and others to tackle some of the toughest, manmade tracks imaginable.

“Polaris is excited to be part of Terracross for its second year,” said Jason DiFuccia, marketing manager for Polaris RZR. “The Terracross tracks provide an incredible challenge to the racers and are perfect to showcase the capabilities of our products.”

Polaris RZR vehicles will be used exclusively in the “Pro Polaris RZR,” “Hero Adaptive” and “Women’s” classes, with the Scrambler XP 9850 H.O. being the majority ATV in the “ATV” class. Terracross athletes will battle in pursuit of the Terracross Championship at three national events during the circuit’s 2013 racing season. Fans can catch the action live or aired on CBS Sports Network. The 2013 schedule is as follows:

  •  August 10 & 11-Elk River, Minn., ERX Motor Park
  •  September 7 & 8-North Branch, Minn., Hay Days
  •  October TBD-Mystik Terracross Finals

“With Polaris being the industry leader and innovative expert of the Side x Side market Terracross is privileged to have them on board as a partner,“ said Joe Duncan, Terracross Sport Organizer. “By building a machine we can take off the showroom floor of a dealer and go straight to the race track it creates an accessible and cost effective way of going racing.”

More information about Terracross can be found at Terracrossracing.com, on Facebook at Terracross Championship and on Twitter @Terracrossrace.

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.

 

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

17 05 2013

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – May 17, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) - Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) announced today that it will present at the B. Riley & Co. 14th 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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GE Capital Provides Financing to Support Growth of American SportWorks

16 05 2013

CHICAGO, IL – May 16, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – GE Capital’s Commercial Distribution Finance (CDF) business announced today that it will provide inventory financing to motorsports dealerships that carry products manufactured by American SportWorks.

American-Sportworks

American SportWorks produces LANDmaster utility vehicles and Zircon, Marauder and Black Widow branded go-carts in Fort Wayne, IN and Roseland, LA. The funds will support the expansion of the company’s dealer network in the U.S. Its products are currently carried by over 200 domestic dealers.

“We’re glad to establish this relationship with GE Capital’s CDF business because of its long history in the motorsports business,” said Kent Rice, president of American SportWorks. “Dealer financing is a cornerstone of our plans to expand our American-made utility vehicles business.”

Inventory financing, also known as floorplan financing, is an important element of a successful manufacturer-lender-dealer business model. Manufacturers benefit from enhanced product flow and increased sales opportunities, and dealers obtain improved credit availability.

“We’re pleased to have this opportunity to help American SportWorks grow its business,” said Sameer Gaur, president of CDF’s motorsports group. “We’ll be working closely with the company to develop financing programs that are right for its dealers.”

About American SportWorks

For more than 50 years, American SportWorks has been manufacturing and distributing on- and off-road vehicles, with over one million vehicles sold to date. It sells utility vehicles and light utility vehicles ranging from 150cc to 650cc with two- or four-wheel drive. In addition, it offers side-by-side, four-crew and even six-crew seating. For more information, go to http://www.amsportworks.com.

About GE Capital, Commercial Distribution Finance

GE Capital, Commercial Distribution Finance provided nearly $31 billion in financing for more than 40,000 manufacturers, dealers and distributors across North America in 2012. Programs include inventory and accounts receivable financing, asset-based lending, private label financing, collateral management and related financial products. Customers have access to exclusive online tools and analytics to manage their accounts and inventory. For more information, visit http://www.gecdf.com/ or follow company news via Twitter (https://twitter.com/GEInventoryFin).

GE Capital offers consumers and businesses around the globe an array of financial products and services. For more information, visit www.gecapital.com or follow company news via Twitter (https://twitter.com/GECapital).

GE (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter. The best people and the best technologies taking on the toughest challenges. Finding solutions in energy, health and home, transportation and finance. Building, powering, moving and curing the world. Not just imagining. Doing. GE works. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.ge.com.

Contacts

GE Capital
Lisa Tibbitts
203-956-4582
lisa.tibbitts@ge.com
or
American SportWorks
Ty Bello
Office 800-643-7332 ext. 316
Mobile 260-438-1089
tybello@amsportworks.com

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GBC Motorsports Pulls Holeshots and Podiums at Honolulu Hills WORCS

16 05 2013

ANAHEIM, CA – May 16, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – GBC Motorsports racers are heating up to go along with rising temperatures in Southern California as RJ Anderson and Mitch Guthrie Jr. won their respective classes at WORCS Honolulu Hills.

RJ Anderson pulls the holeshot and leads wire-to-wire for his second straight SXS Pro victory.

RJ Anderson pulls the holeshot and leads wire-to-wire for his second straight SXS Pro victory.

SXS Pro Production
With temperatures breaking into triple digits, WORCS Racing descended on the small town of Taft, CA for the fifth round of the 2013 season. RJ Anderson took the holeshot and the early lead in the hotly contested SXS Pro class, as fellow GBC racers James Hill and Tommy Scranton followed behind in third and fourth. Anderson seems to be back to form as he controlled the entire race and finished with his second straight victory aboard his GBC Dirt Commanders.

James Hill's mechanical issues on the first lap dropped him to 12th on the day, but Hill sits in 2nd in the SXS Pro class standings

James Hill’s mechanical issues on the first lap dropped him to 12th on the day, but Hill sits in 2nd in the SXS Pro class standings.

Despite running in the top five for most of the race, last-lap mechanical issues dropped both James Hill to 12th place and Scranton to 16th on the day. Tim Wyatt finished 9th and Wesley Barker finished 14th.

The SXS Pro win pushed Anderson up into 6th place in the season standings, and despite the disappointing finish James Hill actually jumped up to the number two spot. Tim Wyatt sits in 4th place, Tommy Scranton in 7th and Wesley Barker in 10th to give GBC Motorsports five of the top ten spots on the leader board.

SXS Production 1000
Just three weeks after fracturing his hand on a hard landing at Sand Hollow, Mitch Guthrie Jr. returned to action to dominate the SXS 1000 class. Guthrie nabbed the holeshot on his GBC Dirt Commanders and didn’t look back, winning his 4th race of the season and stretching his class lead to 41 points. Mike Gardner put in his best performance of the year, earning a 2nd place podium appearance and jumping to 4th in the standings.

Mitch Guthrie Jr. stuck with the Dirt Commanders in Taft, grabbing the holeshot and another SXS 1000 victory.

Mitch Guthrie Jr. stuck with the Dirt Commanders in Taft, grabbing the holeshot and another SXS 1000 victory.

SXS Production 850
Nolan Remlinger pulled the SXS 850 holeshot and ran most of the race in 3rd place, but was disqualified for an off-the-track incident.

Quad Open A
On the ATV side of things, Jose Mendoza and Bryce Kitchen competed in the Open A class at Honolulu Hills. Mendoza finished 7th and Kitchen finished 11th, and both are in the top 5 in the standings at 4th and 5th, respectively.

Pala Raceway in California is the site for Round 6 of WORCS Racing, set for July 12-14. Learn more about GBC Motorsports Dirt Commanders, Mongrels, and more by visiting www.gbcmotorsports.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get the latest product and racing updates.

About GBC Motorsports

GBC Motorsports has been building ATV tires for over 30 years. Manufactured under the Greenball name initially, in 1995, GBC Motorsports was formed to focus on bringing to the ATV and Powersports market performance tires for every riding style. GBC Motorsport’s passion is to provide the highest quality, best value,  and most innovative performance tires to the Powersports enthusiast.

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Steve Johnson Takes Over as Motorcycle Industry Council Aftermarket Committee Chair

15 05 2013

Former Chair Frank Esposito to Remain Active on MIC Aftermarket Committee

IRVINE, CA – May 15, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Motorcycle Industry Council board member Steve Johnson assumes the position of MIC Aftermarket Chair. In his new role, Johnson takes over for former Chair Frank Esposito, who is stepping down after serving in this position since 2004. Esposito, who also sits on the MIC board, will continue to be an active member of the Aftermarket Committee.

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to lead the Aftermarket Committee for the MIC,” said Johnson, president and COO of Tucker Rocky Distributing. “Our industry has Steve-Johnsonsurvived the greatest recession in our lifetime. We are seeing signs of an economic turnaround and it is critical that all constituents in the powersports industry find ways to capitalize on this recovery. There are many pressures on our industry ­– from land closure to unfavorable laws from both the state and federal level – that will have negative consequences. MIC has recently created the opportunity for powersports dealers to become MIC members. It is important that all interested parties come together with a stronger, united voice to make sure the powersports industry is represented. The Aftermarket Committee will continue to play a key role in initiating and supporting these efforts.

“I want to thank Frank Esposito for his leadership of the Aftermarket Committee,” continued Johnson. “Frank has always been a passionate, creative and articulate voice in the Aftermarket Committee. I also want to thank MIC President Tim Buche for his outstanding leadership of the MIC.”

Added Esposito, president of Kendon Industries, Inc.: “I am very grateful to everyone who supported me during my time as chair of the MIC’s Aftermarket Committee. I’m pleased with and proud of the accomplishments and diligence shown by the committee and the membership task force over the last 10 years. But change is healthy; it keeps us fresh and challenges the status quo. Now is the right time for change and so the time has come to rotate from the chair. I believe that Steve is the ideal next candidate. His industry experience and commitment to the aftermarket will prove invaluable as he takes over as chair. I look forward to working with him in this new capacity and also to continuing to serve as an active member of the committee.”

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit, national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers, distributors, dealers and retailers of motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, ROVs, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts, accessories and related goods and services, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants.

The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at www.mic.org.

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Arctic Cat Reports Fiscal 2013 Results

15 05 2013

 

  • Fiscal 2013 sales increased 15% to $671.6 million, driven by strong ATV and Wildcat side-by-side sales;
  • Full-year diluted EPS up 68% to record $2.89 versus $1.72 in prior year;
  • Fiscal 2013 sales within company’s guidance range, while EPS exceeded it;
  • Company expects fiscal 2014 EPS to increase 10% to 13% and be in the range of $3.17 to $3.27 per diluted share

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – May. 15, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Arctic Cat Inc. (NASDAQ: ACAT) today reported record net earnings and earnings per diluted share for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2013. Net earnings rose 33 percent to $39.7 million, or $2.89 per diluted share, up from prior-year net earnings of $29.9 million, or $1.72 per diluted share. Arctic Cat’s net sales for the fiscal 2013 full year increased 15 percent to $671.6 million versus $585.3 million last fiscal year.

“We had another year of outstanding financial performance and are very pleased to report record net earnings and EPS for the fiscal 2013 full year,” said Claude Jordan, Arctic Cat’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Higher sales volumes, combined with our ongoing focus on operational excellence and cost control, again contributed to strong top- and bottom-line results for fiscal 2013.”

Among the highlights of Arctic Cat’s fiscal 2013 full-year financial results versus last fiscal year:

  • Net sales grew 15 percent, fueled by increased side-by-side, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and snowmobile sales;
  • Gross profit margin improved to 22.5 percent from 22.3 percent, due to higher volumes and selling prices;
  • Operating expenses as a percent of sales declined to 13.4 percent compared to 14.5 percent;
  • Operating profit rose 32 percent to $60.7 million, up from $45.9 million;
  • The company ended the fiscal 2013 year with cash and short-term investments totaling $112.8 million, nearly double the $62.6 million at the end of fiscal 2012;
  • The company had no short- or long-term debt.

As expected, for the fiscal 2013 fourth quarter, Arctic Cat reported an improved net loss of $5.1 million, or a loss of $0.38 per diluted share, on 15 percent net sales growth to $113.2 million. In the prior-year fourth quarter, Arctic Cat reported a net loss of $6.2 million, or a loss of $0.49 per diluted share, on net sales of $98.5 million. Due to the seasonality of Arctic Cat’s business, the company typically reports lower results in its fiscal first and fourth quarters, while the fiscal second and third quarters are historically its strongest.

Commenting on the 2013 fourth quarter, Jordan said: “Our business performed well in the quarter, with sales increasing across all product lines. We continued to pursue our strategy to enter new growth segments and launch innovative new products, including two all-new Wildcat™ sport side-by-sides. As a result, we again had double-digit sales gains in our ATV and side-by-side segments in the 2013 fourth quarter.”

Based on the strength of the company’s performance, strong cash flow and future prospects, Arctic Cat’s board of directors has authorized the reinstatement of a quarterly cash dividend and a $30 million share repurchase program, which were announced separately today. “We are committed to enhancing shareholder value, and are pleased to reinstate a quarterly dividend and announce a new stock buyback program,” commented Jordan.

Business Line Results

ATVs and Side-by-Sides – Arctic Cat’s ATV/side-by-side sales increased 16 percent to $87.6 million in the fiscal 2013 fourth quarter, up from $75.8 million in the same period last year, chiefly due to strong dealer demand for Wildcat side-by-sides and North American ATVs and Prowlers. Full-year ATV/side-by-side sales rose 32 percent to $299.8 million, driven by ATV, Prowler and Wildcat sales.

“We remain focused on further increasing our ATV/side-by-side business as a percent of Arctic Cat’s total sales going forward,” said Jordan. “In the fourth quarter, we continued to advance this goal with the launch of two new Wildcat models. In addition, we have a robust new product pipeline for future growth.”

In the 2013 fourth quarter, Arctic Cat introduced two all-new Wildcats that both include industry leading rear travel of 18 inches and 13 inches of ground clearance:

  • The Wildcat 4 1000 pure sport side-by-side seats four full-sized adults. Arctic Cat began shipping the Wildcat 4 to dealers in February 2013.
  • The high horsepower Wildcat X 1000 pure sport side-by-side offers 90-plus horsepower, and enhanced acceleration and maneuverability to those seeking power, suspension and handling in an off-road vehicle. Arctic Cat began shipping the Wildcat X to dealers in March 2013.

In addition to the Wildcat 4 and the Wildcat X, Arctic Cat announced a new 50-inch wide, trail-legal Wildcat that will begin shipping in the latter part of fiscal 2014. Its narrower stance allows riders access to authorized ATV trails, making it a versatile option for consumers. The Wildcat trail-legal version builds on the success of the pure-sport Wildcat, which was recognized as the “Best-In-Class Extreme Performance ROV” by a prominent industry magazine.

The Wildcat is now available in: Base and Limited models; the four-seat Wildcat 4; and the high-horsepower Wildcat X.

Snowmobiles – In the 2013 fourth quarter, Arctic Cat’s snowmobile sales improved to a negative $5.3 million, primarily due to sales incentives, versus negative sales of $6.8 million in the prior-year quarter. Full-year snowmobile sales increased 5 percent to $263.7 million compared to $250.4 million last fiscal year.

As part of Arctic Cat’s snowmobile growth strategy, the company announced in February 2013 expanded engine supply and co-brand agreements with Yamaha Motor Corporation, beginning with the 2014 model year. The agreement gives Arctic Cat customers a broader range of snowmobile engine choices, including access to select 4-stroke engines from Yamaha. In addition, Arctic Cat will build select Yamaha snowmobiles in Arctic Cat’s Thief River Falls, Minn., factory according to Yamaha’s specifications.

In the quarter, Arctic Cat unveiled its new 2014 snowmobile model line-up, featuring 10 new models, including the all-new ZR 6000 El Tigre high-performance sled. The company also introduced two new available engines: a Yamaha 4-stroke 135 horse-power engine; and a clean 600cc 2-stroke 125 horse-power engine. The 600cc engine will be the first Arctic Cat-designed and built snowmobile engine and will be manufactured in the company’s engine facility in St. Cloud, Minn., beginning with the 2014 model year.

Parts, Garments & Accessories – Sales of parts, garments and accessories (PG&A) in the fiscal 2013 fourth quarter increased 5 percent to $31.0 million versus $29.5 million in the prior-year quarter. The growth was primarily due to snowmobile parts sales, reflecting improved snow conditions experienced in the northern United States. For the 2013 full year, PG&A sales were essentially flat, although Arctic Cat had significant year-over-year improvements in Wildcat parts and accessories.

Fiscal 2014 Full-Year Outlook

“We anticipate another year of increased sales and earnings in fiscal 2014, fueled by a strong pipeline of innovative new products and technologies, further market share gains in the growing side-by-side segment and continued leverage in our cost structure,” said Jordan. “We are excited about our future prospects and confident in our ability to deliver another year of enhanced shareholder value and record earnings.”

Arctic Cat’s fiscal 2014 outlook includes the following assumptions versus the prior fiscal year: core ATV North America industry retail sales flat to up 5 percent; side-by-side North American industry retail sales up 15 percent to 25 percent; snowmobile North America industry retail sales flat to up 3 percent; Arctic Cat dealer inventories excluding new products flat to up 10 percent; achieving slightly lower operating expense levels as a percent of sales; and increasing cash flow from operations. The company expects gross margins to decrease by approximately 80 basis points, due to additional Yamaha snowmobiles that will be built in Arctic Cat’s factory and, to a lesser extent, the Canadian currency impact.

For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2014, Arctic Cat anticipates sales in the range of $754 million to $768 million, an increase of approximately 12 percent to 14 percent versus fiscal 2013. Assuming diluted weighted average shares in the range of 13.5 million to 13.8 million, the company estimates that fiscal 2014 earnings per diluted share will be in the range of $3.17 to $3.27, an increase of 10 percent to 13 percent compared to fiscal 2013.

Conference Call

A conference call is scheduled for 10 a.m. CT (11 a.m. ET) today. To listen to the live call dial 1-877-941-9205. The webcast may be accessed through the investor relations section of www.arcticcat.com/corporate. In addition, a telephone replay will be available through May 22, 2013, by dialing 1-800-406-7325, passcode 4618352#.

About Arctic Cat

Arctic Cat Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), side-by-sides and snowmobiles under the Arctic Cat® brand name, as well as related parts, garments and accessories. Its common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “ACAT.” More information about Arctic Cat and its products is available at www.arcticcat.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for certain forward-looking statements. The Company’s Annual Report, as well as the Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company’s press releases and oral statements made with the approval of an authorized executive officer, contain forward-looking statements that reflect the Company’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated. The words “aim,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate” and other expressions that indicate future events and trends identify forward-looking statements including statements related to our fiscal 2013 outlook. Actual future results and trends may differ materially from historical results or those anticipated depending on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to: product mix and volume; competitive pressure on sales, pricing and sales incentives; increase in material or production cost which cannot be recouped in product pricing; changes in the sourcing of engines; interruption of dealer floorplan financing; warranty expenses and product recalls; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; product liability claims and other legal proceedings in excess of reserves or insured amounts; environmental and product safety regulatory activity; effects of the weather; general economic conditions and political changes; interest rate changes; consumer demand and confidence; and those set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2011, under heading “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

ARCTIC CAT INC.
Financial Highlights
(000s omitted, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Years Ended
March 31, March 31,
2013 2012 2013 2012
Net Sales
Snowmobile & ATV Units $ 82,251 $ 68,951 $ 563,464 $ 477,329
Parts, Garments & Accessories 30,980 29,536 108,124 107,939
Total Net Sales 113,231 98,487 671,588 585,268
Cost of Goods Sold
Snowmobile & ATV Units 78,558 68,010 450,291 388,523
Parts, Garments & Accessories 21,084 19,059 70,401 66,126
Total Cost of Goods Sold 99,642 87,069 520,692 454,649
Gross Profit 13,589 11,418 150,896 130,619
Operating Expenses
Selling & Marketing 8,536 8,118 37,402 36,549
Research & Development 6,264 5,266 20,693 17,862
General & Administrative 7,620 7,654 32,087 30,318
Total Operating Expenses 22,420 21,038 90,182 84,729
Operating Profit (8,831 ) (9,620 ) 60,714 45,890
Other Income (Expense)
Interest Income 22 18 49 86
Interest Expense - (1 ) (84 ) (8 )
Total Other Income (Expense) 22 17 (35 ) 78
Earnings Before Income Taxes (8,809 ) (9,603 ) 60,679 45,968
Income Taxes (3,734 ) (3,428 ) 20,934 16,027
Net Earnings $ (5,075 ) $ (6,175 ) $ 39,745 $ 29,941
Net Earnings Per Share
Basic $ (0.38 ) $ (0.49 ) $ 3.02 $ 1.79
Diluted $ (0.38 ) $ (0.49 ) $ 2.89 $ 1.72
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:
Basic 13,186 12,724 13,155 16,721
Diluted 13,186 12,724 13,761 17,458
March 31,
Selected Balance Sheet Data: 2013 2012
Cash and Short-term Investments $ 112,807 $ 62,597
Accounts Receivable, Net 30,296 28,073
Inventories 96,389 98,702
Total Assets 306,258 255,416
Short-term Bank Borrowings 0 0
Total Current Liabilities 127,424 114,035
Long-term Debt 0 0
Shareholders’ Equity 174,472 138,472
Three Months Ended Years Ended
March 31, March 31,
Product Line Data: 2013 2012 Change 2013 2012 Change
Snowmobiles $ (5,318 ) $ (6,820 ) 22 % $ 263,693 $ 250,438 5 %
All-Terrain Vehicles 87,569 75,771 16 % 299,771 226,891 32 %
Parts, Garments & Accessories 30,980 29,536 5 % 108,124 107,939 0 %
Total Sales $ 113,231 $ 98,487 15 % $ 671,588 $ 585,268 15 %

Source: Arctic Cat Inc.

Arctic Cat Inc.
Timothy C. Delmore, 763-354-1800
Chief Financial Officer
or
Padilla Speer Beardsley Inc.
Shawn Brumbaugh, 612-455-1754
sbrumbaugh@padillaspeer.com

Arctic-Cat-Logo

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Arctic Cat Announces Dividend Reinstatement and Share Repurchase Program

15 05 2013

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – May. 15, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Arctic Cat Inc. (NASDAQ: ACAT) announced today that its board of directors approved the reinstatement of a quarterly cash dividend to shareholders. The board has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of 10 cents per share of common stock. The dividend is payable on or about June 14, 2013, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 31, 2013. Arctic Cat currently has approximately 13.2 million common shares outstanding.

Arctic Cat’s board of directors also authorized a share repurchase program of up to $30 million of the company’s common stock. Share repurchases under this program may be made through open market and privately negotiated transactions from time to time and in such amounts as management deems appropriate. The timing of share repurchases will depend on market conditions and other corporate considerations.

“The reinstatement of a quarterly dividend and share repurchase program demonstrates our continuing commitment to increase shareholder value and reflects our belief that the stock represents a good investment opportunity,” said Claude Jordan, Arctic Cat’s chairman and chief executive officer.

About Arctic Cat

Arctic Cat Inc. designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), side-by-sides and snowmobiles under the Arctic Cat® brand name, as well as related parts, garments and accessories. Its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “ACAT.” More information about Arctic Cat and its products is available at www.arcticcat.com.

Source: Arctic Cat Inc.

Arctic Cat Inc.
Timothy C. Delmore, 763-354-1800
Chief Financial Officer
or
Padilla Speer Beardsley Inc.
Shawn Brumbaugh, 612-455-1754
sbrumbaugh@padillaspeer.com

Arctic-Cat-Logo

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Things Heat Up at Rally On The Rocks

9 05 2013

MESA, AZ – May 8, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Appropriately enough, the extended family of the UTV community gathers in Moab, Utah, the Wednesday after Mother’s Day for the annual Rally On The Rocks. The family-oriented event runs Thursday-Saturday, May 15-18 and features some of the most scenic touring in the world… not to mention some of the most challenging slick rock terrain to be found anywhere. An ice cream social, concession stands, vendor midway, bonfires and even a drive-in movie night ensure that there is something for everyone.

130509-DragonFire-XP4

“DragonFire is honored to be able to share the good times with friends and families at the Rally On The Rocks,” says social media manager Chris Moore. “We are proud to be the presenting sponsor of DragonFire Movie Night as well.” Rally goers are encouraged to join DragonFire and the editors from MotoUSA.com for a drive-in style movie shown on a massive outdoor movie screen starting at dusk on Thursday night.

“We want people to see that DragonFire is big-time so we are taking to the big screen,” jokes Chris. “Seriously, this will give us an opportunity to mention our Facebook Photo Contest for Rally participants. We are also doing a drawing for a DragonFire by Vance & Hines Dual Exhaust system and some other exciting give-aways in conjunction with the MotoUSA team. Movie night will start with a DragonFire/MotoUSA short, followed by a feature-length action movie.

DragonFire’s Facebook contest winner will be announced at the DragonFire display on Friday, May 17 at 8 pm. “Simply get a free DragonFire contingency sticker, put it on your UTV and then snap a shot of it while on the trail at Rally On The Rocks. Post the photo to DragonFire’s Facebook page and the image with the most “Likes” and “Shares” will win a DragonFire Quick-Release Steering Wheel Kit.”

Speaking of the trails, DragonFire and the MotoUSA film crew will be out and about each day. For a chance to see DragonFire’s RockSolid XP 4 that appeared on the Destination Polaris TV show in action, check them out on these trails:

  • Thursday – Kane Creek
  • Friday – Steelbender
  • Saturday – Gold Bar Rim (DragonFire Sponsored Trail)

For more details on the entire Rally On The Rocks program, check out www.rallyontherocks.com — While you are exploring the Internet, be sure to “Like” DragonFire on Facebook at:  www.facebook.com/DragonFireRacing

FEEL THE HEAT!

The name says it all! DragonFire continues to crank up the heat when it comes to the best products in the UTV business. DFR has everything from engine and suspension components to bolt-on accessories! We feel your passion, so when you think of UTV parts and accessories think of the Dragon… and feel the heat!

DragonFire Racing
2330 W Broadway Rd #112
Mesa, Arizona 85202
Phone: (800) 708-9803
Fax: (480) 824-4597
www.DragonFireRacing.com

Dragonfire Racing Logo

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