.W. Childs Associates, L.P., an established private equity firm specializing in leveraged buyouts and recapitalizations of middle-market growth companies, announced it has acquired a majority interest in Cycle Gear, Inc., a leading provider of motorcycle apparel, parts and accessories, from Harvest Partners, LP. Financial terms of the investment were not disclosed.

Concurrent with this transaction, William E. Watts, a Partner at J.W. Childs, will assume the role of Chairman of Cycle Gear. David Bertram, Cycle Gear’s Founding Chairman, will retire from day-to-day executive management of the company, but will remain on the Board of Directors. Peter Laughton, a long-time Director of Cycle Gear and industry veteran, will also remain on the Board. Tracy Wan, a seasoned specialty retail executive who joined Cycle Gear in 2009 as Chief Operating Officer, is being promoted to President and joining the Board of Directors. Tracy will assume executive leadership of the business.

“Partnering with an experienced investment firm like J.W. Childs is a logical next step in the evolution of Cycle Gear,” said Mr. Bertram. “I’m confident that under their stewardship we will accelerate the company’s growth. It’s been an honor working with an incredible team of passionate motorcyclists and retail professionals to grow Cycle Gear into a dominant force in the motorcycle industry. I look forward to my continued participation on the Board of Directors.”

Also in connection with the acquisition by J.W. Childs, Joseph Fortunato, a long-time specialty retail executive and CEO of GNC from 2005 to 2014 will join the Board as Lead Director and consultant.