| 2007 Drivetrain Market Report
Megan Vickers
Assistant Editor
We are all familiar with that old adage, “You get what you pay for.” Well the best way to understand what you’re buying and selling is to learn as much as you can about the products you stock and then have your staff educate your customers about the benefits and features of the products being sold. The following companies have contributed to this month’s Market Report to help educate you on the latest drivetrain components they have to offer so that retailers can learn as much as possible about the latest chains, sprockets and other drivetrain products before tending to their customers’ needs.
|
|
“The ultimate drivetrain: it is an entire Evo Softail based driveline system which includes our
Torquebox, Function-Formed Primary, King Kong Klutch and
Firestarter,” described Baker Drivetrain spokesperson Anthony Underwood, who added, “Although they’re each available separately, they form together and unite their powers to handle the highest torque capacities.” Baker’s drivetrain sales are up this year, said Underwood. “Why? Harley acknowledged the need for a 6th speed overdrive in 2007. We happened to sell the finest, most-engineered and proven solution,” he explained, adding, “In addition our reputation for support has spread industry-wide. We believe key variables are key to healthy status in a relaxed market.” Look out for knock-offs or disposable transmissions and other drivetrain products, advised Underwood. “In addition to reverse-engineering American designs, which are inspired by the people who are embedded in this culture, many companies don’t really service or support their products either - no matter what is said,” he explained. Guide your decision on whether or not to buy from a company based on their reputation and note that investing in American made products is good for all, he continued, adding, “For your information ‘American assembled’ isn’t the same meaning either.”
|
|
|
Chris Taylor, advertising coordinator of
Barnett Tool & Engineering told us his company’s latest drivetrain product is the new billet primary cover support for Victory motorcycles. “Our new support cover is machined out of billet aluminum to replace the thin stock unit and eliminate flex that can result when using heavy-duty clutch springs,” noted Taylor. It is said to be ideal for use with Barnett’s Scorpion clutch or any high performance application and the primary cover is said to be polished and chrome plated for show-quality appearance. “We are seeing an increasing need for high performance clutches in today’s popular metric cruisers,” noted Taylor. Sales are down because the overall market is down, Taylor explained, adding, “However, this is also to be expected being that 2006 was a record year in sales for us.” It is necessary for the dealer to stress to their customers the importance of thoroughly inspecting the drivetrain when replacing components, he stated. Taylor concluded, “Too often people try to save money by just replacing their clutch fiber plates while not replacing the steel plates and springs or inspecting the other clutch components. We always recommend replacing all the clutch plates and springs and inspecting everything.”
|
|
|
The Christini All Wheel Drive conversion kit increases traction and stability with no torque effect and offers improved cornering on all surfaces, noted Director of Sales and Marketing Scott Wynn. This conversion kit reduces rider fatigue, offers faster acceleration and unmatched hill climbing ability, Wynn told us. He added, it can be easily serviced with no special tools required. Christini’s sales are up compared to the year prior, he divulged. Wynn told us the All Wheel Drive motorcycle frame kits are now available for Honda CRF250X, CRF250R and CRF450X models, with kits for KTM models to be available in fall 2007.
|
|
|
“For 2008, D.I.D is upgrading the 520VT narrow enduro racing chain with the patented high performance X-Ring technology,” said Executive Vice President Robert Palmer. “D.I.D’s X-Ring is extremely low in friction and high in wear resistance,” he told us. Palmer said he has noticed an increasing number of motorcycle enthusiasts choosing to buy higher quality replacement chains over the low cost, poor quality chains. “D.I.D Premium X-Ring
VM, exclusive Racing ER and Super Street ZVM chains are continuing to set new sales records,” divulged Palmer, who continued by saying, “Consumers are becoming aware of the extra value provided by higher quality chains.” The parts department personnel need to make sure that they are selling consumers a chain that has been designed to handle the horsepower and torque of the motorcycle the chain is being installed on, informed Palmer.
|
|
|
“DP Clutches offers a complete clutch kit that includes friction plates, steels and springs for the offroad and ATV market,” noted President Larry Mills, who added, “We also offer friction plates and springs for the sport bike market and separate friction and steel kits for the Harley-Davidson market.” Riders will experience an upgrade in performance, durability and smoother power delivery, explained Mills. There is reportedly no need to soak the plates before installing them on the vehicle. “Our total clutch sales are up significantly,” Mills told us. He continued by saying, “Since introducing the full clutch kit the demand has been overwhelming. Not many companies offer a complete kit. This is where we have an edge over the competition.” Overall, stores should know that by stocking DP’s clutch kits, they will be offering their customers an upgrade over OEM and receiving higher margins at the same time, said Mills. “DP Clutches stand behind their products 100 percent, no questions asked,” he added.
|
|
|
Drive Systems USA now offers chain and sprocket kits with a choice of D.I.D or RK premium chains coupled with Drive Systems sprockets, or
AFAM, or Supersprox Stealth sprockets, reported President Brian Lewis. “All kits are made to order with any gearing combination and express ship the same day at no extra charge,” said Lewis, who continued, “Drive Systems has been building custom chain and sprocket kits for 15 years now.” In all of the Drive Systems sprocket kits all of the chains are cut to length no matter what gear ratio is chosen, described Lewis. “Longer chains can be sent as well for extended swingarm applications,” he added. For the second straight year, sales have increased by about 17 percent, divulged Lewis. “Drive Systems offers inexpensive standard steel replacement chain kits to top of the line Supersprox Stealth sprocket kits packed with D.I.D ERV3 race chain,” he stated, adding, “We simply have something for everyone.”
|
|
|
EMGO International offers durable, replacement and complete clutch kits at very aggressive pricing, informed Operations Manager Greg
Tysor. These kits reportedly include the drive plates, friction plates and springs. Better retail pricing is one trend Tysor said he has noticed in the motorcycle drivetrain market. He told us sales are about the same as last year and that these kits are an affordable alternative to many of the OEM parts.
EMGO International
Phone: 770-944-3532
|
|
|
The CRF150R BTL series slipper clutch from Hinson Clutch Components offers reduced engine braking and rear wheel hop and chatter, spokesperson Ron Hinson told us. It also offers smoother, more positive clutch action with less heat fade, said Hinson. Sales are up, he divulged, adding, “We build a high end product that the serious racers need and I believe this customer continues to spend money even with our industry flattening.” He wanted to remind dealers to tell their customers that they get what they pay for.
|
|
|
The HY Tech EBC DRC clutch sets “are still the latest and best selling clutch product for
EBC,” stated spokesperson Andy Freeman. The DRC kits are a complete engine set of friction plates, special pin polished steel driven plates and heavy-duty springs all machined to the original clutch stack height to be sure they drive properly from install, described Freeman. “Clutch sales are up 20 percent, especially with the new four stroke markets which are destroying everyone’s clutches due to higher torques used, especially on any uprated units,” he explained. He recommended dealers sell complete engine kits in order to make sure the stack heights are re-instated as new. “Also make sure the kits are soaked in proper drivetrain oil. The use of lower levels of oil to reduce drag in the drive case and the use of thinner fluids such as automatic transmission fluid is an old trick to gain a horsepower or so, but it ruins clutches,” he noted.
|
|
|
Continental Chain Company Manager Susan Huang reported the DX chains for motocross applications are the latest from
KMC Chain. These chains offer higher tensile strength and reinforced fatigue strength, explained Huang. “Chains are replaced before they are totally worn out, as quality chains are at an affordable price,” she noted, adding, “In the past, the rider would ride ‘til the chain is broken. Now, since the quality chain is more affordable, the rider actually times their replacement based on their usual chain riding mileage and replaces the chain before the first sign of chain-wear symptoms.” The company’s sales increase every year due to its commitment to quality, price and delivery, said Huang. She advised dealers to help their customers pick the correct chain model and the right length of chain for their chosen application.
|
|
|
“Our drivetrain products are rear chain tensioners for installation in chain drive Harley-Davidson motorcycles and other makes with special application,” reported
LBV Engineering President Lawrence Venere. He told us the features include reduction of chain noise and vibration, reduction of chain and sprocket wear and less frequent required chain adjustment. “Our sales are down a little because we sell to people with older bikes which were manufactured by Harley before 1986,” explained
Venere, who added, “These include restored bikes and those who may convert from belt drive to chain drive. This market is diminishing.” He reminded dealers that they must rely on their experience and knowledge of the benefits of their products.
LBV Engineering
Phone: 630-860-9966
|
|
|
"Pro Taper (pictured on pg. 16) offers both countershaft and rear sprockets for all late model Honda, Kawasaki,
KTM, Suzuki and Yamaha offroad motorcycles and sport ATVs,” stated Marketing Coordinator Lindsay Wadsworth. The company’s rear sprockets are individually CNC machined for extra precision between sprockets. The rear sprockets also come in a factory magnesium finish to resist the weather and add strength, described Wadsworth. She added, “Pro Taper’s countershaft sprockets are broached and machined to strict standards, constructed of chromoly steel. These sprockets offer a lightweight design with integrated mud grooves to prevent dirt build up.” A special corrosion resistant coating has reportedly been added to the countershaft sprockets to offer exceptional strength and sprocket life. The drivetrain market is constantly evolving with new advancements and Pro Taper has worked hard to make outstanding products that are made with integrity and with the customer in mind, said Wadsworth. “The best thing a dealer can do is be educated on the products they are selling to customers,” she advised. “They should know why a Pro Taper sprocket will last longer than other sprockets on the market,” Wadsworth continued, adding, “They should also be educated on different applications to be able to recommend the best sprocket to suit the customer’s needs.”
|
|
|
Doug Chestnut of Rebel Gears told us, “We have just expanded our tooth range in 520/530 up to 76 teeth, 70 was the largest before.” Chestnut explained the company exclusively uses American-milled 7075-T6 aerospace quality aluminum then hob the teeth, thereby producing the perfect tooth profile. “The new tooth range allows more extreme gearing choices for the customers that are not available through most distributors,” he added. Riders looking for more choices in gearing options, or who prefer American made sprockets, appreciate the products made at Rebel Gears, Chestnut noted, adding, sales are definitely up this year because customers are demanding better service in shipping times and better quality aluminum sprockets. Dealers should remember to inform their customers that if they change their sprocket, they should also purchase a new chain and know how to adjust and lube the chain, advised Chestnut.
|
|
|
The Rekluse z-Start Pro automatic clutch provides similar benefits to the company’s z-Start with the added benefits of improved clutch lever feel, simpler installation and reduced maintenance, explained President Al
Youngwerth. “Additionally, the z-Start Pro is more durable holding up to the higher loads and stress found in motorcycle riding and racing,” he added. The drivetrain market is becoming more specialized and competitive so it is key to have products that provide unique value, noted
Youngwerth. “The z-Start Pro provides a unique benefit with something new to sell,” he said, adding, “Our most successful dealers take advantage of our Dealer Demo program so they can show the benefits to customers in their local area.” Rekluse’s sales have started to increase over the prior year’s, he noted, due to the success of the company’s racers and Rekluse expects to see sales increase further as they continue to find success. “Some products for drivetrain may not have the bling or powder-coating like other products, but many provide more riding benefit,” he told dealers. Youngwerth continued, “The key is to present motorcycle drivetrain products, the z-Start Pro, as performance enhancements for the motorcycle customer.”
|
|
|
“In 2007 we released a couple new drivetrain products, but the most significant is definitely our Twinring heavy-duty offroad
chainwheel,” stated Renthal spokesperson Brad Cameron. “The Twinring chainwheel combines a specially enhanced 7075-T6 aluminum alloy center section with a high strength electroless nickel coated steel outer ring,” he described, adding, “The alloy center section keeps weight down and the steel outer ring provides durability where it is most needed.” Self-cleaning mud grooves are said to be on both sides of the chainwheel to help prevent dirt build up and further reduce weight and it is reportedly available for most popular dirt bikes with a 520 chain in sizes ranging from 47 to 53. “Since we specialize in the dirt market, the biggest trend we are noticing is the need for a longer lasting rear chainwheel for the non-racer crowd,” noted Cameron, He continued, “This is the reason we developed our new Twinring
chainwheel. Our race teams and most racers will still use our ultra-light alloy rear sprocket since they spend cubic dollars on saving weight and shaving every ounce off their race bikes, but for the average rider/racer who is less concerned with weight and more concerned with durability, this new product will be a perfect fit.” He reported sales have had a slight increase this year, but expects sales of drivetrain products for the last quarter of the year to increase with the release of the new Twinring chainwheel and a couple new chains for the street and ATV market. “The number one thing [dealers] can do to help themselves sell more drivetrain products is to have inventory on hand,” advised Cameron. “Our products don’t take up a lot of space, so it’s easy to stock the good sellers,” he added.
|
|
|
RK Excel America’s Marketing and Advertising Manager Farrah Bauer reported the
MX, ATV and street bike RK chain and sprocket kits with black rear sprockets are the company’s latest drivetrain products. The race kits contain an ultra-light 7075-T6 black, PTFE coated, Vortex aluminum rear sprocket paired with a shot-blasted premium steel front sprocket, she explained. Also included is an RK chain that is said to be suitable for the application of the kits, which are available with gold or non-gold chains. While weight savings are still key to some riders, others are taking more interest in longer wear life in their sprockets, noted Bauer. She told us sales of the chain kits are up versus last year’s, which the company believes to be due to its expanding dealer network and thus expanding its customer base. “Dealers should teach their customers that it is vital to maintain and adjust your drivetrain on a regular basis,” she suggested, adding, “When replacing drivetrain components, it is highly recommended that you replace both sprocket and chain at the same time for optimal performance and wear life.”
|
|
|
Howard Kelly, spokesperson for S&S Cycle, told us the all-helical gear six speed transmission features helical gear construction for quieter operation, 1:1 final drive for efficiency and a 34 tooth output pulley for rpm reduction on the highway. In the drivetrain market, Kelly said he has noticed that noise has become an important issue. Sales are up due to the amount of attention the company’s gearset has gotten because it is so quiet, explained Kelly. “When an engine hop-up is done, remind your customer that a better clutch - like the S&S high performance clutch - is a good idea to handle the power, as are upgraded brakes,” he told dealers. “If your customer adds performance to his bike, it is the perfect time to introduce a six speed to help him reduce rpm on the highway,” he continued, “Additionally, the closer ratio of the S&S helical gear six speed makes using the additional power around town more fun in the first through fifth gear.”
|
|
|
While the SFR line of drive chains are new to the US, the company has been producing drive chains for the European and Asian markets for over 20 years, stated
MWI, LLC. spokesperson Randy Mashin. “SFR drive chains are available in heavy-duty type giving it a high tensile strength rating,” he explained, adding, “The SFR chain is available in black or gold, heavy O-ring and heavy X-ring for on-road and offroad vehicles.”
SFR Competition Motorcycle Chain - MWI, LLC
Phone: 708-534-5716
|
|
|
“Our newly patented ‘smart chain’ is our flagship product for our 2008 lineup,” reported Vic Krause, president of
Sidewinder Chains & Sprockets. Sidewinder ‘smart chain’ employs unique O-style smart rings that are impregnated with very slick, synthetic chemical lubricants, described Krause, who added, “These synthetics are temperature and pressure sensitive. As the chain begins rotation it heats up, this causes the smart rings to trigger the release of the embedded lubricants right to the pressure points at the
sideplates.” It’s like two chains in one: sealed for life for maximum durability and maximum power transfer like a non O-ring chain, he said. Krause has noticed that customers are demanding the latest technology in every aspect of performance both at the OEM level and also from the aftermarket suppliers. Sidewinder has experienced an 8 percent increase in sprocket sales year-to-date and an 11 percent increase in chain sales, divulged Krause. “A dealer can now offer the same chain to both hard-core motocross racers and to
offroad, enduro riders,” he stated. He concluded by saying, “Smart chain will provide maximum power as well as maximum life.”
|
|
|
The Sunstar
Works Z stainless steel rear sprockets are the next evolution of Sunstar’s original, exclusive Z sprocket, but are now made from the highest quality stainless steel with a polished and chromed finish, noted Sales and Marketing Manager Cory
Jonson. It keeps the offset tooth design, which promotes self-cleaning of the chain by keeping mud, chain wax build up and other grime out of both sides of the chain plate, explained
Jonson. It reportedly saves up to 50 percent of the weight of standard steel, yet keeps that steel durability and is said to come with matching hardware. “Dealers should stock steel replacement sprockets,” said
Jonson, who added, “The new Works Z is long lasting and lighter than OE steel.” Sales are up, he told us, and Sunstar is the largest OE supplier of sprockets in the world. The company offers 40 percent minimum margins and 46 years of experience, he added.
|
|
|
“The Supersprox-stealth is a combination of long lasting steel and lightweight aluminum that utilizes the best of both materials,” informed National Manager Chris
Curnen. The idea was first developed to satisfy American drag racers that traditionally use steel construction sprockets because aluminum sprocket teeth can’t survive the high torque delivered through the chain drive system, he explained. However, since steel sprockets are very heavy, Supersprox sought an alternative and reportedly developed a combination of the two. “We are noticing that the market is continuing to become split between the high quality products that sell on performance and reliability and the low price products, selling on price and not related to quality,” Curnen said, adding, “There are also more companies in the market with their own brands.” Sales of the
Supersprox-stealth are up compared to 2006, divulged Curnen, and sales of its aluminum sprockets are the same as last year. “Don’t be afraid to sell quality where you can,” he advised stores. “Quality is not just about materials, but also process control and understanding of the market requirements,” he continued. Curnen concluded by saying, “When selling chain and sprocket kits, try to inform your clients on the most simple maintenance issues.”
|
|
|
“Our newest belt drive is the affordable, American-made Tauer Machine Warlord,” reported MC Advantages General Manager Kent Reed. “Thanks to affordable belt drives like the Tauer Machine Warlord, we’ve managed to hold our ground while other’s sales have slipped.” Don’t overdo it on the width of the belt, advised Reed. “We’ve heard of some massive-width belt drives, but 95 percent of all bikes need three inches or less. It’s a great way to save for more bolt-on goodies,” he explained. Reed noted the company has seen tremendous upswing in the sale of chain drives as well, especially in enclosed chain drives. “We have several kits for the 1989-later bikes that include the entire chain drive, starter, charging system and covers.
|
|
|
The Ultima street style open belt drive #58-730 is the company’s latest drivetrain product, noted Vice President of Engineering Ken Francis. It features tenacious power handling capability with a 3.35 inch Goodyear belt and extra plate Barnett clutch assembly, Francis explained, adding, it is also available with an outboard support assembly for drag racing. “Open belt drive primaries are very much in style for their aggressive looks and muscular power transfer capability,” he said. Sales are way up, divulged Francis, which means more belt drive styles will be introduced, including skinny belt drives. “Display one of these monsters and [customers] will want one,” he advised.
|
|
|
The Vortex Cat5 colored series aluminum rear sprocket is available in red, blue, black or gold, offering a fresh look and design unlike any other, said Marketing and Sales Manager Josef Buxton. “As customers become better educated on the effects a simple gearing change can have on the performance and handling of the motorcycle, Vortex is seeing an increase in the range of sizes being ordered,” he explained. Sales are up for the 11th straight year, noted Buxton. “We believe this is due to the continual increase in the brand recognition of Vortex and increases in distribution channels,” he added. Buxton informed retailers, “A perfectly concentric sprocket will last longer and provide better performance, so dealers need to know which brands gear hob and which don’t when trying to provide a sprocket to a performance oriented customer who wants only the lightest, most precise and performance oriented sprocket on the market.”
|
|
|
Western Power Sports has a great line of chains for motorcycles, available in both sealed and non-sealed, reported Motorcycle Product Manager Rodney Reynolds. “WPS recommends the
HSO, heavy-duty O-ring sealed chain and HSX, which is a heavy-duty X-ring chain, both of which are perfectly suited for on-road or offroad use,” he explained. “They are incredibly strong, boasting a 8,987 lb. tensile strength, quad staked pins and are engineered for strength and durability,” Reynolds told us. Compared to last year, the drivetrain market is stronger for
WPS, said Reynolds, who added, “It seems consumers are demanding better quality chains today with less maintenance, in addition, the bikes are becoming more powerful, requiring stronger, longer-lasting chains.” While economically minded customers go for the cheapest chain that fits their bike, it is important to help them understand the importance of replacing their chain with one of OE or better quality that will serve them well in the conditions they enjoy riding in, Reynolds noted. “Customers need to be educated on the difference between a sealed and a non-sealed chain and how they will be better served with a sealed type chain and, when you factor in that they last longer and require less maintenance, a sealed chain is more economical in the long run,” he added.
|
Knowledge is the key to success and we hope the information provided here will help you and your customers find the right product the next time they need to replace their chains and sprockets, or want to upgrade their drivetrain system. We’d like to thank those companies who participated in this month’s feature and urge our readers to check out some great gift ideas in our Holiday Stocking Stuffer preview, elsewhere in this issue. |
