Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo

Inside the motorsports industry's annual trade show.

By Matthew Miles | Photos by Marc Urbano & Richard Jones

February 2009

Photos: Dealernews International Powersports
Dealer Expo >>

What recession?

Based on the attendance and enthusiasm clearly evident at the Dealernews International Powersports Dealer Expo held February 13–16 in Indianapolis, Indiana, the motorcycle aftermarket is alive and well, despite what the rest of the economy might be doing. Show displays were split between the main exhibit hall of the Indianapolis Convention Center and the adjacent Lucas Oil Stadium, the brand-new home field for the NFL's Indianapolis Colts. According to Advanstar, the show's organizers, the number of exhibitors was down about 10 percent. Given the state of the economy, that's phenomenal.

In the main hall, there seemed to be no fewer innovative products than ever. In fact, we've never seen so many brands of helmets under one roof, and apparel-maker Alpinestars introduced an amazing number of new products—60, to be exact. There consistently was heavy traffic in the Cobra and Vance & Hines booths, and according to company principals Ken Boyko and Terry Vance, both companies are selling everything they can make. Optimism among other exhibitors was high, as well. Christophe Miravalls, Export Director for Shark Helmets, said, "The dealers who are here are serious about doing business."

The stadium venue housed exhibitors from China, Taiwan and Pakistan, as well as the always popular sportbike pavilion. Said Robert Pandya, representing Advanstar, "If you're a dealer and interested in motorcycles, ATVs or four-wheel utility vehicles, you could spend a whole day in the stadium alone—easily."

With most racing seasons not yet underway, show attendees included drag racers Steve Johnson, Rickey Gadson and Kent Stotz, roadracers Larry Pegram and Kevin Schwantz, dirt-track icon Chris Carr and motocross legend Bob Hannah. Schwantz, Carr and Johnson also attended Cycle World's annual Industry Dinner on Saturday night. CW Publisher Larry Little took the opportunity to introduce the TWIST Initiative (Two Wheel Inspired Secondary Transportation), CW's campaign to promote motorcycling as a viable transportation option. More information will be available elsewhere on this site later this Spring.