MAG parts ways with Media Group brands

Motorcycle Aftermarket Group (MAG) has started 2016 by shedding its former products in its Media Group. First, MotorcycleUSA.com notified readers in February that its run had come to an end:

“What a long strange trip its been…Breaking news. LDI is pulling the plug on Motorcycle USA Friday. Thx for the 20 year run readers.”

Later, in March, Cycle News, the weekly digital publication, had been sold. And here’s how Cycle News spread the word:

Powersport Media is proud to announce the acquisition of Cycle News, America’s motorcycle news source, in a purchase agreement with Motorcycle Aftermarket Group (MAG) in which all staff, properties, editorial and sales efforts remain intact and ongoing.

Powersport Media LLC was founded by Sean Finley, Bryan Robb and Jesse Ziegler to take over ownership of Cycle News. These three industry professionals have vast experience in publishing, digital media and editorial content and look forward to working with the Cycle News team to expand on the potential for the iconic brand.

Digital Throttle, which has been contracted by MAG to manage the advertising sales operations for Cycle News for the last five years will continue to serve that role. So it will be business as usual for the advertisers.

The Cycle News website and weekly digital magazine content will continue to be managed by editor Kit Palmer, road test editor Rennie Scaysbrook and art director Sunny Kwon, who also have the support of a talented pool of contributors. The website was re-launched in November with a new mobile responsive design and the digital magazine continues to provide timely content to a loyal readership. Readers spend an average of 15 minutes per session reading the magazine, consuming the extensive bike test, news and event coverage in a unique, multi-media format.

“Like many motorcycle enthusiasts, I grew up reading Cycle News, and it has been exciting to work with the team over the past five years,” said Finley. “Cycle News serves a unique niche in the market with the timeliest bike and product reviews available and most in-depth racing and industry news coverage. The all-digital delivery aligns with media consumption trends, and we have some exciting ideas to expand delivery options and readership.”

“On behalf of the Cycle News staff, I thank MAG for their partnership over the last five years,” said Palmer. “They kick-started the all-digital magazine format and have been a supportive partner of our efforts. Cycle News was founded and thrived for many years as a small, independent company, and now is a great time to return to that environment. We look forward to being more nimble and embracing new ideas to serve and grow our readership.”

“Cycle News is an industry leader, and has been for over five decades, bringing motorcycle news and information to all those seeking it,” Kevin Strawbridge, president, MAG Media Group, said. “MAG was honored to be a custodian of this publication since 2010 and are equally excited to be turning over the reins to Powersport Media, LLC. The staff, including Kit Palmer, Rennie Scaysbrook and Sunny Kwon, and the long-time contributors, has been instrumental in creating the content that makes Cycle News a top ‘go to’ resource. We are looking forward to seeing how this grows in the years ahead.”