[dropcap]J[/dropcap]ust in time for MPN’s vintage issue comes word that the newest member of the AIMExpo team is an old bike nut. Vintage racer Kevin Nixon has been brought on board as the Marketing Director for AIME, which was just named one of the fastest-growing trade shows in North America. Nixon joins the team after spending the past five years with Twisted Throttle, a leading motorcycle accessory distributor, manufacturer and AIMExpo exhibitor since the show’s inception in 2013.

“I’ve had the opportunity to be involved with AIMExpo as an exhibitor since the inaugural event just a couple of short years ago,” says Nixon. “I’m looking forward to lending my experience, both industry marketing and on-site at the show, to the team’s vision to add value to the industry and provide an unparalleled experience for all attendees.” AIME VP Larry Little adds: “Many of us have had the opportunity to work alongside Kevin throughout the years, whether in his role with Twisted Throttle or connecting during a ride with other members of the industry.

His passion for powersports, combined with his marketing knowledge and leadership makes him an ideal fit. He’s a key addition to the team and we’re excited to add his many skills as we continue developing and refining the AIMExpo platform.
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Shocking news! Fox Racing Shox marketing manager (and former King Shock Technology marketing director before that) Brian Godfrey is moving on. “During these past four years this company has provided me the opportunity and support to excel at the challenges offered to me,” says Godfrey. “I now look forward to my new position within the industry that brings forth its own unique challenges and opportunities.”
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BMW Motorrad USA has a new marketing communications manager, Mark Buche. Mark joins BMW  after a 10-year stint with the Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), where he served as Emerging Markets manager. “Mark knows the motorcycle marketplace inside and out,” says Sarah Schilke, BMW’s national marketing manager. “At the MIC, he was the resident new media and new market strategist and we look forward to Mark applying his skills to further the BMW Motorrad brand.”

In his new position, Buche will be responsible for managing all aspects of the BMW communications mix including advertising, website initiatives, social media and dealer marketing. Schilke says his experience will be especially valuable as BMW Motorrad launches more new models targeting new consumer segments in upcoming years.
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Parts Unlimited has a couple of new road reps in key territories for the distribution giant. Jeff “Bandit” Martin is the new sales rep for the Central West Region covering Idaho and surrounding areas. Bandit is a parts guy through and through… in the past four decades he has managed the parts departments for several dealerships. Bandit’s experience extends well beyond the shop and onto the track with more than 40 years of riding experience, including 18 years racing motocross.
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Tom Hodlick is now the Parts Unlimited rep for the South East Region covering the Western Florida coast. Hodlick has raced dirtbikes, ridden Adventure bikes and competed on classic minibikes. He even campaigned personal watercraft and has been a course marshal for the International Jet Sports Boating Association.

His work experience is just as interesting as his racing career stints within the sales and management teams for some of Georgia’s best dealerships. When he is not racing or helping others find the right parts for their machines, Tom likes to dabble in MX photography, go camping with his family and restore classic cars, especially old Volkswagens.
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Viva Troy Lee Designs! The apparel firm has named MotoMX Racing its new distributor for Mexico. MotoMX will offer the complete Troy Lee Designs Moto, Bike and Sportswear collections, as well as Seven racewear to dealers south of the border. “We believe Mexico is a leading country in the moto and racing environment,” says MotoMX owner, Patricia Salazar.

“There are no truer fans in the industry. I would like to thank Troy Lee for giving us the opportunity to represent one of the best known action sport brands in Mexico,” adds Salazar. “We look forward to a growing partnership with Troy Lee Designs while building the brand throughout Mexico.”