DEI Powersports is partnering with longtime American V-twin motorcycle repair specialist Andrew Barnes of Barnes Performance Cycles to improve motorcycle exhaust heat issues.
Barnes said Powersports Manager John Gabriel visited his shop to discuss custom options, and after hearing about DEI’s custom heat shield liners, he placed an order for Vance & Hines Big Radius models.
The most common issue is too much heat from the rear cylinder of the engine. If it gets too hot, it can melt the motorcycle’s plastic side cover. That usually happens when a motorcycle sits for a long time, like waiting in traffic.
“That was the first thing I thought of — we could definitely benefit from having these to reduce heat on that side cover,” Barnes said.
A Master Certified technician for Big Dog Choppers, Harley-Davidson, Victory and American Ironhorse, Barnes said he spends most of his time working on Choppers. Most Choppers have custom paint jobs, which makes it difficult and expensive to match new paint on a damaged side cover. The improved exhaust can also reduce how much heat hits a driver’s leg, making the ride more comfortable.
Barnes, a one-man operation, also appreciates having another custom part to sell.
“I try to find unique products that not only look cool but add value to the rider’s experience,” he said. “We feel DEI’s heat shield liners are an asset to our business, and we look forward to adding additional systems in the future.”
