Features

Jan. 19, 2009 – Aftermarket Digest

Cooper Tire to close Georgia plant

Cooper Tire, which manufactures racing motorcycle tires, announced the weakening economy would cause it to close its Albany, Ga., plant.
The facility shutdown will result in the loss of 1,400 jobs, the company said in a press release. The company will absorb $150-$175 million in restructuring charges and that between 50-60 percent would be non-cash charges. The plant closing is estimated to save between $75-$80 million per year.
With the closing of the Georgia facility, Cooper will have three manufacturing plants remaining in the United States.

Western Power Sports adds Küryakyn

Western Power Sports Inc. (WPS) has added the Küryakyn line of street bike products to its lineup of offerings, according to a company press release. WPS now carries a broad range of Küryakyn metric cruiser and touring products, including footpegs, grips, levers, footrests, engine guards and other dress-up parts.
“With its high attention to detail and quality finishes, Küryakyn products are sure to be a hit with our dealers and their customers,” said WPS Motorcycle Product Manager Dan Lopez in the release. “We are thrilled to be able to increase our street motorcycle product offerings with the addition of the Küryakyn line.”
Dealers interested in Küryakyn product offerings from WPS can contact their local WPS sales representative or visit www.wps-inc.com for more information.

U.S. distributor of Ferodo products to expand lineup

BrakeTech USA, the longtime importer and distributor of Italian-made Ferodo Advanced Friction Products, is expanding the Ferodo product line for the U.S. market.
After the closure of Motorcycle Stuff, BrakeTech has expanded the scope of brake pads beyond the race-specific category to cover the broader based high-performance street and off-road categories in depth. This includes a range of brake shoes as well.
Dealers currently stocking Ferodo will be able to obtain new model applications as well as technical assistance and support, BreakTech USA said in a press release.

Industry veteran Gabriel joins Progressive Suspension

Progressive Suspension, a manufacturer of high-performance suspension products, has hired John Gabriel as account manager.
“Gabriel has a rich history in the motorsports aftermarket, as well as a keen familiarity of our product line, making him an ideal addition to the PSI family,” Progressive’s Vice President David Shirley said in a press release.
Gabriel has served as an independent sales rep in the powersports industry since 2001, supporting brands that include Edelbrock, Russell, Auto Meter as well as Progressive Suspension.
Gabriel worked within the automotive aftermarket before delving into the motorcycle segment and has owned, built and raced a number of vehicles. psb

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