MotoAmerica Announces Plans for 2027 King of the Baggers

Following Harley-Davidson’s decision to conclude its factory racing participation and official team support after the 2026 season, MotoAmerica is moving forward with plans to broaden the championship’s competitive landscape.

Indian Motorcycle has committed to an increased paddock presence for 2027, bringing additional motorcycles to the grid as the manufacturer looks to build on its dominant 2026 campaign.

MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey welcomed the changes, pointing to Harley-Davidson’s departure as an opportunity to attract additional manufacturers to the category.

“We created this class for the American V-twin Bagger,” said Rainey. “Their departure has opened the door for other manufacturers.”

Rainey also confirmed that new manufacturers have expressed interest in competing in King Of The Baggers for 2027, with MotoAmerica now allowing additional production-based touring and bagger motorcycles to seek approval for entry, subject to technical and competitive evaluation.

Alongside the expanded manufacturer eligibility, MotoAmerica is introducing several technical changes intended to improve engine longevity and reduce the financial demands placed on teams.

Rev limits will be established at 7,000 rpm for Harley-Davidson machinery and 7,500 rpm for Indian motorcycles, with the existing performance-balancing framework remaining in place to maintain competitive parity.

Full-season competitors will also be required to utilize the MotoAmerica Maxx ECU Race unit with controlled firmware. The standardized system will prohibit traction control and lift control while providing consistent data collection.

Exceptions will apply to single-event competitors and teams participating in three rounds or fewer.

MotoAmerica Technical Director Tige Daane said the changes are designed to reduce the frequency of major engine work, allowing teams to better manage budgets and spend more time on track.

The final technical regulations and supporting bulletins are expected to be published ahead of the 2027 season.

With Indian increasing its commitment and the door now open to additional manufacturers, King Of The Baggers is entering a new chapter. The challenge for MotoAmerica will be translating that interest into a deeper and more competitive grid as the championship moves beyond its longstanding Harley-Davidson versus Indian rivalry.