MTA has hired industry veteran Greg Blackwell as president for the powersports distribution operation. “The decision to join MTA was an easy one,” says Blackwell. “From the moment I met the owners, I believed in their values and the vision they have for MTA; which is different than what I have done in the past.” Most recently with KTM North America, dealers will remember Blackwell from his time at Pirelli/Metzler North America and LeMans Corporation.
Although they offer an array of motorcycle and snowmobile parts and accessories, MTA is best known in the industry as an ATV/UTV tire & wheel company. “We will continue to develop MTA’s strong ATV/UTV business, but at the same time, the market needs to be aware of the other products we carry. The ultimate goal is to offer dealers and vendors a unique experience,” says Blackwell. Greg will be based out of MTA’s Corona, California, location.
Ducati North America has a new marketing director as Laurence Kuykendall joins the DNA team. “I have the best job in the world, no wait… the universe!” he exclaims. Kuykendall had been community & communications manager for BMW Motorrad USA for a decade, before shifting to aftersales marketing/apparel manager for BMW NA. Most recently he had headed up his own marketing research and project management firm for clients in the motorcycle industry, including DNA, BMW Performance Center and several BMW motorcycle dealers in the U.S.
Industry scribe Guido Ebert has resigned from Minnesota Motorcycle Monthly (MMM). “I thank Victor, Bruce and all of the contributors I’ve had the pleasure to work with, and truly value the friendships that have been formed along the way.” As the name implies, MMM is a tabloid-sized monthly newspaper that exists to share the stories of motorcycling in Minnesota – whether on-road, off-road, scooter or even trike. Distributed free at hundreds of dealerships across the region, the paper bucks the current trend in print publication closings by remaining dedicated to its community. It’s even archived by the Minnesota Historical Society.
More magazine guy news as Matthew Neitz formerly with The Enthusiast Network (TEN) is looking to clean up Wizards Products presence as marketing manager. “Matt’s professionalism, integrity and industry knowledge make him a perfect fit for our organization,” said Amy Antonsen, president of Wizards Products, Neitz has a decade of sales and marketing experience within the powersports industry, not to mention the car side with stints at HOTROD, Motor Trend and Automobile. He also has a BA in business communications from Florida Gulf Coast University. “This is a very exciting time to join the Wizards team and help grow the brand,” said Neitz. “We want to make Wizards a household name.”
American Capital Ltd. has sold Dynojet Research Inc. to Irving Place Capital and New Value Capital. Established in 1972, Dynojet has been the benchmark for powersports fuel management parts and diagnostic equipment. “American Capital has been fortunate to partner with a strong management team that has preserved Dynojet’s leadership in the powersports market while driving innovation and growth,” said American Capital Managing Director Dustin Smith. American Capital acquired Dynojet in November 2007.
The wraps come off as apparel, luggage and motorcycle cover manufacturer Nelson-Rigg USA recently announced that the hiring of Deb Drinan. Her new role is director of business development. “Deb brings with her 12 strong years as a powersports industry professional specializing in building and enhancing strong relationships with both OEM’s and distributors,” notes company president Dimitri Cretikos. “Deb also brings business acumen, project management skills, and a customer-centric focus.” Dealers may remember Deb from her decade with Dowco.
