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WILL SUZUKI MAKE A COMEBACK?

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We think Yamaha’s potential introduction of a Grizzly boasting its 850 parallel twin might just be enough to reignite some passion from Japanese manufacturers like Honda, Kawasaki and yes, even Suzuki.

It’s been almost ten years since the last time Suzuki introduced a new off-road vehicle and the company’s KingQuad media event two years ago was simply a reintroduction of the same vehicle with up-to-date badging but no real updates.

We’ve made some speculation about a pure sport side-x-side from Suzuki featuring a toned down variation of its parallel twin 1056cc snowmobile engine, but it might make more sense for the company to introduce an updated version of its KQ with a brand new 850 twin of its own and beat Yamaha at its own game.

Changes to the KingQuad’s bodywork would top the list, but updates to front end geometry and refinements to EPS would make a significant impact to modernize handling of an ATV that was once an industry leader.

From the feedback we’ve been getting, this is something consumers have been begging for, not to mention dealers and 2019 may just be the model year Suzuki steps back in the ring.

Bottom line is we think there’s something brewing out there – we’re just not sure what!

TexPlex Park and Can-Am to Create First Permanent Demo Facility

MIDLOTHIAN, Texas (May 2, 2018) — TexPlex Park and Can-Am, BRP’s off-road brand for ATV and side-by-side vehicles, today announced an agreement to create a first-of-its-kind permanent demo facility. Through this collaboration, select local and regional Can-Am dealers are encouraged to send qualified leads to TexPlex Park, where customers will test drive a Can-Am Maverick X3 900 HO, Maverick X3 X rs Turbo R and Defender MAX Lone Star HD10 side-by-side vehicles, at no charge, in a closed-course racing environment and on testing terrain designed for utility use and trail riding.

“This agreement advances our Can-Am dealer product training model, allowing us to become more efficient and purposeful in our approach to product education,” said Marc-Andre Dubois, Can-Am Director, North American Retail Operations. “The TexPlex off-road demo facility can also enhance sales opportunities for our Texas dealers by allowing customers free test rides in a legitimate off-road environment and get the full Can-Am experience, while also supporting the state’s fast-growing racing scene.”

As a truly disruptive offering in the powersports industry, Can-Am and TexPlex are taking the lead in addressing the fundamental challenge powersports dealers face by creating meaningful engagement between their off-road products and customers. Customers have not been given the ability to take such an immersive test drive with these products until now. TexPlex Park is an ideal location for Can-Am dealers to showcase their off-road inventory the way it was intended, offering a purpose-built park with a controlled setting for actual try-and-buy efforts. This level of commitment to hands-on product demonstration through authentic test drives will advance the modern buying process.

“We are incredibly excited about our agreement with BRP and Can-Am, who shares our passion for the outdoors as well as our belief that great products need to be experienced to be appreciated,” said Tommy Kehoe, President of TexPlex Park. “TexPlex hopes to become a natural extension to Can-Am showrooms by facilitating memorable product demonstrations, training sessions and customer experiences at our 1,000-acre venue.”

BRP recently established a new business office for North America in Plano, Texas, making Midlothian-based TexPlex Park a central and convenient location for Can-Am dealers. Through TexPlex, Can-Am will also have a central hub to train dealers and corporate employees via the park and event venue Blaine Stone Lodge.

About TexPlex Park: TexPlex Park is the one-stop-shop for experiential and corporate events or group outings with everything from outdoor team-building to a variety of other recreational offerings, including motocross, sporting clays, and jet boats. TexPlex offers 1,000 acres of space for product demonstrations, an indoor gun range with a live-fire simulator, and a 2,000-foot canal for customers to ride in a jet sprint boat captained by a professional driver. TexPlex Park also offers a more than 5-mile-long diverse off-road trail and a 1.8-mile UTV short-course track. For more information, visit www.texplexpark.com.

About BRP: BRP is a global leader in the world of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems built on over 75 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Our portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive products includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am on- and off-road vehicles, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. We support our lines of product with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business to fully enhance your riding experience. With annual sales of CA$4.5 billion from over 100 countries, our global workforce is made up of over 10,000 driven, resourceful people.

www.brp.com

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Evinrude, Rotax, Can-Am, Maverick, X3, Renegade, Spyder, and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

POLARIS® RANGER® CELEBRATES TWO DECADES OF INNOVATION AND LEADERSHIP

Minneapolis (May 2, 2018) – For the past two decades, Polaris RANGER® vehicles have become reliable workhorses for Americans doing a variety of jobs in some of the most unforgiving conditions imaginable. In 1998 Polaris revolutionized the side-by-side category by debuting the RANGER 6×6 vehicle. Since then, Polaris has continuously set the standard for utility side-by-side vehicles with its industry-leading capabilities and celebrated rolling the one-millionth RANGER off the assembly line in Huntsville, Alabama, in 2017.

To recognize its 20th anniversary and Polaris’ position as the No.1-selling utility side-by-side, Polaris RANGER will celebrate the stories of the owners who made this milestone possible. Polaris is calling upon owners to submit stories about their hardworking RANGER for a chance to win one of three ultimate RANGER experiences.

“While Polaris has been a player in the powersports market for nearly 65 years, we first cut our teeth in the side-by-side category with the groundbreaking introduction of RANGER two decades ago. Since then, we’ve grown to define and set the standard for every category in the side-by-side market, with RANGER continuing to lead the utility side-by-side category year after year,” said Kyle Duea, vice president Off-Road Marketing, Polaris.

To support the 20th anniversary of RANGER, Polaris has teamed up with champion tie-down roper Tyson Durfey, professional angler David Dudley and TV hosts and professional hunters Lee and Tiffany Lakosky to create the ultimate RANGER experiences. Throughout the month of May, owners are encouraged to submit a video or 300 word-max story about their RANGER and what it has helped them achieve for a chance to win an all-expense paid ultimate rodeo, fishing or hunting adventure hosted by these professionals for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To learn more about each ultimate RANGER experience visit RANGER20th.com.

“We are celebrating two decades of innovation and best-in-class vehicles thanks to our devoted customers that continue to make RANGER a part of their daily lives,” Duea continued. “The 20th anniversary of RANGER is a celebration of our customers and Polaris’ continued commitment to deliver the hardest working, smoothest riding vehicles that help owners get any job done, from farming to hunting. We are excited to honor them and hear their stories.”

“Creating the RANGER was a team effort. Innovation and breaking new ground does not happen without the people on the team – contributing, listening and pushing,” said Mitchell Johnson, son of David Johnson – one of the founders of Polaris. “The culture at Polaris is one full of passion and an overwhelming desire to help people create lasting memories and experiences with our products. We are looking forward to hearing our costumers stories and learning about how their machine helped them push the envelope or finish an epic project.”

For more information about Polaris and RANGER’s 20th Anniversary, visit RANGER20th.com. Also visit us and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About Polaris
Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader that has been fueling the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts for more than 60 years. With annual 2017 sales of $5.4 billion, Polaris’ innovative, high- quality product line-up includes the RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL® side-by-side off-road vehicles; the Sportsman® and Polaris ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; Indian Motorcycle® midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; and Polaris RMK®, INDY®, Switchback® and RUSH® snowmobiles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories, along with a growing aftermarket portfolio, including Transamerican Auto Parts. Polaris’ presence in adjacent markets globally includes military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe. Visit www.polaris.com for more information.

IS AN 850 PURE SPORT GRIZZLY COMING?

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Now that Yamaha has introduced its all-new 850 parallel twin in its 4-passenger Wolverine, we’re wondering which Yamaha vehicle we’ll see this mill shoehorned into next.

Clearly, there are a few vehicles in Yamaha’s line that could use a bit more jam – such as the 3 and 6-passenger Vikings, Yamaha’s venerable Grizzly and most certainly the 2-passenger Wolverine.

Here’s a thought, though: The 850 was introduced in a new vehicle, so perhaps we could see it in one more new model before the others get an update – and we’re talking a pure sport utility ATV.

If you’re a reader of Dirt Trax mag and have watched our show, you’ve no doubt seen our WR700 Grizzly project that saw AJ Lester transform a stock 700 Grizzly into something that could hold its own against a Scrambler or Renegade. We think Yamaha could have had similar aspirations and the 850 twin’s development had this specific application in mind.

Dropping the 850 into a Grizzly chassis with new plastics inspired by the Raptor, would definitely deliver showroom sizzle, but we know this vehicle could have way more to offer.

Yamaha has endless resources from its race department and could call upon GYTR to outfit a sport tuned exhaust plus modifications to fuel delivery and clutching to add some arm-stretching jam.

Add ITP TerraCross tires wrapped around factory beadlock rims and Yamaha’s strong relationship with Fox could see 3-position QS3 shocks at all four corners.

Lighten the ATV up by eliminating the headlight and gauge cluster and add aluminum handlebars and remove the front and rear racks. This ATV could be everything the industry has been dreaming of for years and could be just enough to re-ignite the competitive spark between Japanese manufacturers.

More to follow…

Ole Girl West Virginia Ride

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RZR goes Beyond the Dirt with owners Dan and Janie Wayne. Dan, a Vietnam war veteran, says that “no matter what kind of jam I put it in, it always got me out.” Janie said it’s “the best investment we’ve ever made,” as its longevity has astounded them.

For more information visit: rzr.polaris.com

Yamaha Steadfast in Supporting SEAL-Naval Special Warfare Family Foundation

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, recently provided a new Viking VI Ranch Edition Side-by-Side (SxS) to the SEAL-Naval Special Warfare Family Foundation (NSW) for auction at their annual fundraiser near San Diego, California.

Built in the U.S. at Yamaha’s Newnan, Georgia factory, the Proven Off-Road Viking VI Ranch Edition donation raised capital toward the organization’s mission of supporting SEAL members’ families. This marks Yamaha’s fifth-consecutive year of aiding NSW, totaling more than $100,000 in funding for the much-deserved recipients.

“It has been an honor to support the SEAL-NSW Family Foundation and its mission of assisting the families of those who defend our freedoms,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s ATV / SxS group marketing manager. “Each year we appreciate the opportunity to work with this highly esteemed organization and support their efforts to raise awareness and assistance for the brave and heroic SEAL-NSW families.”

The SEAL-Naval Special Warfare Family Foundation is a San Diego based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2008 that raises awareness and funds for special programs in direct support of the NSW families on a local, national and global scale. Further details about the NSW organization and fundraiser can be found at SealFamilyFoundation.org/events.

“Yamaha has been a great supporter of our event, and their vehicles are an auction favorite, raising more than $100,000 for SEAL members’ families over the past five years,” said William R. Fenick, CAPT, USN (Ret), Executive Director for SEAL-NSW. “The generous donations from partners like Yamaha allow us to support the needs of these important families and provide the right programs – both now and in the future.”

In addition to all of the standard attributes of the Yamaha Viking line, the 2018 Viking VI Ranch Edition comes equipped with a high-quality Metallic Sand painted bodywork featuring aluminum wheels, color-matched seats, a sun top, rearview mirror, over fenders, under seat storage and unique Ranch Edition badging, all at an MSRP of $15,599.

Every Yamaha SxS and full-size ATV is proudly Assembled in the USA at Yamaha’s advanced manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution. View additional details on the Viking VI Ranch Edition, along with the full lineup of Proven Off-Road vehicles at www.YamahaOutdoors.com.

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, (YMUS) a leader in the motorsports market, makes the toughest, most capable and versatile ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings also include motorcycles, outboard motors, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, boats, outdoor power equipment, accessories, apparel and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States. Headquartered in Cypress, Calif., since its incorporation in 1976, Yamaha also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia.

For more information on Yamaha, visit YamahaMotorsports.com.

POLARIS HOSTED RANGER COUNTRY USA CELEBRATION FOR PINEDALE, WYOMING WITH HELP FROM COUNTRY MUSIC SUPERSTAR JAKE OWEN

Minneapolis (April 13, 2018) – Polaris®, the industry leader in off-road vehicles, awarded Pinedale, Wyoming, with the title of “RANGER Country™ USA,” and hosted a celebration for residents of Sublette County with a performance by country music superstar, Jake Owen. During the April 12 event, Polaris unveiled a “RANGER Country™ USA” mural depicting the RANGER-lifestyle embodied by Pinedale that will live at town hall along with donations of the all-new RANGER CREW XP 1000 to Tip Top Search and Rescue, M.E.S.A. Therapeutic Horsemanship and Boy Scouts of America, Pinedale.

“I can’t thank Pinedale and Polaris enough for having me be part of their RANGER Country USA celebration,” said Owen. “I am honored to have been part of this program that pays tribute to my people, small town Americans. I hope the residents of Pinedale had as much fun as I did last night.”

“We are honored to have celebrated Pinedale and award them with their well-deserved RANGER Country USA title,” said Kyle Duea, vice president Off-Road Marketing at Polaris. “RANGER Country USA represents the thousands of small towns and Americans that helped us reach the one-million RANGER milestone. We hope to continue building on this campaign and pay homage to hardworking Americans.”

To celebrate building its one-millionth RANGER utility side-by-side vehicle, Polaris kicked off the search for “RANGER Country USA” with country music star Jake Owen. The two-month campaign featured video profiles devoted to five small towns from across the United States, including Pinedale, and asked consumers to vote for the town they believed was most-deserving of the title. After three weeks of voting, Pinedale, Wyoming, was voted “RANGER Country USA”. Corning, Arkansas; Darlington, Wisconsin; Spring Creek, Nevada; and Stephenville, Texas were among the four other towns vying for the title and were awarded for their participation in the campaign with three RANGER vehicle donations.

Since its introduction in 1998, Polaris RANGER has continuously set the standard for utility side-by-side vehicles with its industry-leading capabilities. With over one-hundred owner-inspired improvements, the all-new 2019 RANGER CREW® XP 1000 represents the culmination of nearly two decades of innovation.

For more information about Polaris and “RANGER Country USA”, visit ranger.polaris.com and rangercountryusa.com. Also visit us and join the conversation by using #RANGERCountryUSA on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

For tour dates and more information, visit www.jakeowen.net, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jakeowen,and follow him on Instagram @jakeowenofficial & Twitter @jakeowen.

About Polaris 
Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader that has been fueling the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts for more than 60 years. With annual 2017 sales of $5.4 billion, Polaris’ innovative, high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL® side-by-side off-road vehicles; the Sportsman® and Polaris ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; Indian Motorcycle® midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; and Polaris RMK®, INDY®, Switchback® and RUSH® snowmobiles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories, along with a growing aftermarket portfolio, including Transamerican Auto Parts. Polaris’ presence in adjacent markets globally includes military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe. Visit www.polaris.com for more information.

About Jake Owen
Owen has had six No. 1 singles to date – the 2X PLATINUM anthem “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” PLATINUM-certified hits “Beachin’,” “Anywhere with You,” “Alone with You,” “The One That Got Away,” and, GOLD-certified “American Country Love Song.” Owen’s fifth studio album, AMERICAN LOVE, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and No. 4 on the Billboard 200 all-genre chart. Most recently, Owen signed a new label deal with Big Loud Records, reuniting him with Joey Moi, who produced his biggest hits to date. Owen and Moi are currently in the studio working on a forthcoming project. 

BRP RECEIVES SIX RED DOT PRODUCT DESIGN AWARDS

Valcourt, Québec, April 9, 2018 – BRP employs some of the best designers in the industry, and they are once again recognized for their hard work and creativity with six Red Dot product design awards.
The jury has stamped this prestigious seal on the following BRP products:

– Sea-Doo SPARK TRIXX personal watercraft,
– Can-Am Maverick X3 side-by-side vehicle,
– Can-Am Maverick Trail side-by-side vehicle,
– Evinrude E-TEC 150-200hp G2 outboard engine,
– the Ski-Doo snowmobile REV Gen4 platform and
– the LinQ snowboard/ski rack for Ski-Doo snowmobiles.

“Receiving these awards demonstrates BRP’s drive to create products that push the riding experience even further,” says Denys Lapointe, Senior Vice-President, Design, Innovation and Corporate Image. “We are constantly listening to our customers and stretching the limits of innovation to offer a wide array of options so they can personalize their favourite ride.”

BRP has earned a total of 28 Red Dot design awards over the years. Every time, it is an achievement to be selected for this internationally recognised quality label for excellent design. It is clear proof that BRP distinguishes itself through its industrial design.

In February, BRP also received an Innovation Award from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) during the International Miami Boat Showin Florida for its 2018 Sea-Doo GTX Limited personal watercraft.
The Red Dot design awards debuted in 1955 to acknowledge cutting-edge products evolving industries and seeking to improve customer experience with emerging tendencies. A panel of roughly 40 experts evaluated the products’ level of innovation, functionality, formal quality, ergonomics and durability to thoroughly conclude which concept merits the distinction.

About BRP
We are a global leader in the world of powersports vehicles and propulsion systems built on over 75 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Our portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive products includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, Can-Am on- and off-road vehicles, Evinrude and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts, motorcycles and recreational aircraft. We support our lines of product with a dedicated parts, accessories and clothing business to fully enhance your riding experience. With annual sales of CA$4.5 billion from over 100 countries, our global workforce is made up of over 10,000 driven, resourceful people.
www.brp.com
@BRPNews

Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Evinrude, Rotax, Can-Am, Spyder, Spark, Maverick, E-TEC, LinQ and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Craig Scanlon Named President of Transamerican Auto Parts

Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) announced today that Craig Scanlon has been named president of Transamerican Auto Parts (TAP), effective immediately.

Scanlon will succeed Greg Adler, who is assuming a new role as executive vice chairman for TAP. TAP continues to be a strong component of Polaris’ growing Aftermarket segment; Scanlon and Adler will both report to Steve Eastman, president of Aftermarket, Parts, Garments and Accessories for Polaris.

“For more than 50 years, TAP has led the 4×4 Jeep and truck aftermarket thanks to the vision, leadership and passion of the Adler family. As executive vice chairman, Greg’s extensive industry knowledge, strategic insight, and strong relationships will continue to play a critical role in supporting the long-term success of the business,” said Eastman. “I have full confidence that TAP’s market leadership will continue to grow and flourish with Craig at the helm. Craig has an exceptional track record as a proven leader whose clear, strategic vision has been instrumental in helping to shape and grow Polaris’ largest business segment. His dedication and passion, combined with his experience building brands and delivering results, makes him well equipped to accelerate growth and drive long-term success for TAP and Polaris.”

“This is an exciting time for the 4×4 Jeep and truck aftermarket industry and I’m humbled by the opportunity to lead this talented TAP team,” said Scanlon. “TAP’s history of industry leadership and culture of customer-first values have been core to its success. I look forward to building upon its strong foundation and continuing to drive momentum and stronger collaboration across all areas of the business including leveraging synergies resulting from the 2016 acquisition.”

An experienced leader in the powersports industry, Scanlon most recently served as vice president and chief retail and marketing officer for Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) at Polaris. During his 14 years at Polaris, Scanlon has held positions of increasing responsibility in marketing, sales and general management supporting both the ORV and Slingshot businesses. Prior to his roles at Polaris, Scanlon held various sales and accounting roles at Ingersoll Rand. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Maryland.

In his new role as executive vice chairman, Adler will be responsible for supporting long-range strategy, pursuing inorganic growth opportunities through TAP’s strategic acquisition framework, and serving as a TAP brand ambassador. Adler joined TAP in 1994 and served in various areas of the business before being named TAP’s president and CEO in 2005.

“My father founded this business in 1961 as a source for Jeep parts. Today, TAP is an industry leader with a growing portfolio. Craig’s vision and enthusiasm leaves me feeling confident in his ability to honor both the Adler legacy and company vision of putting the customer first, while continuing to deliver growth for TAP and Polaris. Craig is inheriting an incredibly talented and dedicated team. The foundation is built for continued success under his highly experienced leadership,” said Adler. “I imagine TAP’s next chapter will see even more success than its last. On a personal level, my new role as executive vice chairman will allow me to focus on an area of work that I’m extremely passionate about: discovering fresh opportunities, new brands, and untapped segments for TAP.”

TAP is a leader in the growing $10-plus billion Jeep and truck accessory market. Acquired in 2016 by Polaris, TAP operates as a distinct business unit reporting to Eastman. TAP sells and installs an extensive line of accessories for Jeep and truck enthusiasts, including products manufactured under its seven proprietary, industry-leading aftermarket brands: PRO COMP®, RUBICON EXPRESS, SMITTYBILT®, POISON SPYDER™, G2™, LRG® and TRAIL MASTER®. TAP is the largest retailer and installer in the North American market, selling through its own retail and on-line network while also supporting numerous independent accessory retailers/installers.

Transamerican Auto Parts is the world’s leading manufacturer, wholesaler, and retailer of aftermarket parts and accessories for trucks, Jeeps, SUVs and four-wheel drive vehicles. Transamerican operations are comprised of 90 4 Wheel Parts retail locations in North America, Transamerican Wholesale sales and distribution, Dealer Services International and the Transamerican Manufacturing Group which includes Smittybilt, Rubicon Express, G2 Axle & Gear, Pro Comp, LRG Wheels and Poison Spyder. We Sell It. We Own It. We Live It. 

Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) is a global powersports leader that has been fueling the passion of riders, workers and outdoor enthusiasts for more than 60 years. With annual 2017 sales of $5.4 billion, Polaris’ innovative, high-quality product line-up includes the RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; the Sportsman® and Polaris ACE® all-terrain off-road vehicles; Indian Motorcycle® midsize and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; and Polaris RMK®, INDY®, Switchback® and RUSH® snowmobiles. Polaris enhances the riding experience with parts, garments and accessories, along with a growing aftermarket portfolio, including Transamerican Auto Parts. Polaris’ presence in adjacent markets globally include military and commercial off-road vehicles, quadricycles, and electric vehicles. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe.

Visit polaris.com for more information.

Yamaha Employees Celebrate 10 Years of Off-Road Volunteer Support

CYPRESS, Calif. – April 9, 2018 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, employees celebrated the company’s Outdoor Access Initiative’s (OAI) 10-year anniversary this past weekend, through the completion of their 10th volunteer project in the San Bernardino National Forest in support of OHV access opportunities. Working with members of the Southern California Mountains Foundation (SCMF) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the effort continued a 10- year tradition of Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative volunteer projects in the nation’s most frequently visited forest.

For a decade, the Yamaha OAI has led the motorized recreation industry in creating and defending access to land for outdoor recreation through efforts promoting safe, responsible use of OHVs, educate the public on proper recreational land use and wildlife conservation practices, and protect appropriate and sustainable access to public lands. In celebration of this milestone, more than 80 volunteers, including Yamaha employees, their friends and family members gathered at the Cactus Flats OHV Staging Area, near Big Bear Lake, California, to contribute more than 250 hours of volunteer service through projects including staging area and trail restoration and maintenance.

“For 10 years, Yamaha employees, the Southern California Mountains Foundation, and U.S. Forest Service volunteers have come together to realize OAI’s mission,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s ATV/SxS group marketing manager. “Yamaha is dedicated to supporting sustainable access to public lands like the San Bernardino National Forest – and each year our employees, families and friends invest their personal time in these projects, because outdoor recreation is a major part of our lives.”

“Yamaha Motor Corporation has been a valuable partner for more than a decade and has helped us accomplish numerous restoration projects on the San Bernardino National Forest,” said Stacy Gorin, executive officer of the Southern California Mountains Foundation. “This 10-year anniversary is a significant milestone for Yamaha, but also for our work together as we continue to act on our mutual, long term commitment to OHV land stewardship, and our mission of educating people to recreate responsibly.”

For more information on the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, or to submit a grant application for similar projects, visit www.YamahaOAI.com. Follow Yamaha Outdoors at www.facebook.com/YamahaOutdoors, www.twitter.com/YamahaOutdoors or www.instagram.com/YamahaOutdoors. #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #SocialGood #CSR #Volunteer #Philanthropy

About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is the industry leader in guaranteeing responsible access to our nation’s land for outdoor enthusiasts. Through this program, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied agricultural organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams and partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state and local public land use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible and sustainable public use. A committee then reviews each application and awards grants to deserving projects. Examples of appropriate projects for grants include, but are not limited to:

• Trail development, restoration and maintenance
• Trail signage and map production
• Staging area construction, renovation and maintenance
• Land stewardship, safety and education

Updated guidelines, an application form and information on the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at www.YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Outdoor Access Initiative, call Yamaha’s dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email OHVAccess@Yamaha-Motor.com or write to:

Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Yamaha Motor Corp., USA 1270 Chastain Road Kennesaw, GA 30144

About Yamaha Motor Corp., USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the powersports industry. The company’s ever- expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATVs and Side-By-Side Vehicles, Snowmobiles, Outboard Motors, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States.

Headquartered in California since 1960, YMUS also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information about Yamaha, visit www.YamahaMotorsports.com.