Dennis McNeal, vice president-motorcycle operations at Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., is the new chair of the Motorcycle Industry Council board of directors.

"I’m honored to be elected as the chair of the MIC, just as the organization begins its second century of vital work preserving, protecting and promoting motorcycling," McNeal said. "This is an exciting time for the industry’s trade association, with great potential ahead, and an excellent team of veterans and fresh talent on the board and among MIC staff assembled to take on challenges and opportunities."

McNeal thanked the outgoing chair of the MIC board of directors, Mark Blackwell, who served in that role during 2013 and is retiring from his position as vice president-special projects at Polaris Industries.

"Mark Blackwell was, and will remain, a tremendous asset to the MIC," McNeal said. "His vast industry experience, genuine enthusiasm and leadership skills were greatly appreciated over the past year, particularly as the MIC embarked on expanded initiatives such as the new class of MIC membership for dealers and retailers nationwide."

Jon-Erik Burleson, president of KTM-North America Inc., will continue as vice chair, and Larry Little, vice president and general manager of Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group, was elected secretary/treasurer at February’s board meeting.