January 8, 2026

AIMExpo: A Look at Opening Day

Categories:

Motorcycle HistoryMotorcycle Industry NewsPress ReleaseRacing

WhatsApp Image 2026-01-07 at 21.42.02 — Seen at the AIMExpo trade show in Anaheim, California. Photos by Anne Barnes.

Day 1 at AIMExpo hit the ground running. The show floor filled quickly, conversations sparked everywhere, and the energy never let up.

From packed education sessions and product demos to the buzz around New Product Central, the return of the NPA Charity Auction, and a packed Industry Party powered by Turn 14 Distribution, the day delivered the kind of energy that only happens when the industry comes together in person. Below, a closer look at the moments that set the tone for the week ahead.

Education Highlights:

Today’s Dealer Evolution sessions opened with a data-driven look at where the market has been and where it’s headed. Later discussions explored shifting consumer expectations, how policy is shaping the powersports ecosystem, and what sets top-performing dealerships apart.

Jason Chinnock, CEO of Ducati North America (second from left), spoke on the “Selling the Dream” panel at the Dealer Evolution Stage. He said his brand is heavily invested in racing and motorsports because those activities create heroes that can help attract new riders and customers. “It is an opportunity to inspire riders,” he said. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

The Dealer Excellence track, developed in partnership with MPN, focused on practical applications dealers can take home right away — from profit margins and e-commerce to adding value through emerging technologies.

Dealer Excellence. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

Over in the Digital & Tech Sector, Tech Talks focused on real-world use cases, showing how technology can streamline daily operations, improve response times, and support smarter decision-making without overcomplicating the customer experience.

The day also included an MIC Member Lunch & Learn, where attendees dug into industry data and trends shaping rider behavior, market opportunities, and long-term strategy.

Today on the show floor:

Fourteen OEMs and brands gave journalists a look at what’s ahead for 2026 during the AIMExpo media tour.

Moto Morini amped up excitement before their presentation with a live drumline and awarded Jason Bach of Flip My Cycle with their Dealer of the Year award. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

Jess Stone and her dog Whimsy were at the Triumph booth, sharing their around-the-world journey on a Triumph Tiger 900. The pair crossed North and South America and is headed to Africa. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

KTM Group showcased their newest models, including the KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO, which was flown in from Mattighofen, Austria. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

Look for more highlights from OEMs in tomorrow’s Show Daily.

Maxwell Materne, Ownex. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

“I’m here because I want to see what’s changing across the industry. I just want to see who’s got their finger on the pulse and how I can be a part of that too. It’s been awesome.” – Maxwell Materne.

More photos from opening day.

Greg Tada (on the left) of Piaggio with Isle of Man TT legend John McGuinness. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

Seen at the AIMExpo trade show in Anaheim, California. Photos by Anne Barnes.

New product central:

New Product Central Presentations allowed attendees to explore the latest launches from SBS Brakes, Alpinestars, Denago, Rabaconda, Gbrakes, Euro Grip, Cardo, Brembo, and RFN USA. Representatives provided demos, product walk-throughs, and exclusive first looks at what’s next across the industry.

AIMExpo – new product central. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

A standout moment was the launch of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation’s Ride for Kids All For One Challenge, uniting the powersports community to raise critical funds for childhood brain tumor research and family support. With a goal of raising $1 million by December 31, 2026, the initiative invites participation in many forms — legacy rides and personal fundraisers to dealership activations and individual giving — ensuring anyone can be part of the effort. Learn more at curethekids.org/allforone.

Other show highlights:

The Women in Powersports Lunch, hosted by Synchrony, created space for connection, conversation, and shared perspective among the women shaping the future of the industry.

MIC board members Ashmore Ellis (left) and Teri Lynn (right) at the Women in Powersports Lunch, hosted by Synchrony. Photo courtesy AIMExpo

As the day continued, the AIMExpo Industry Party powered by Turn 14Distribution gave attendees a chance to reconnect, unwind, and celebrate the community that keeps powersports moving forward.

The evening also marked the return of the NPA Charity Auction, where the industry came together in support of the Malcolm Smith Motorsports Foundation, Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, and Road 2 Recovery Foundation.

This year’s auction raised nearly $26,000, with the top bid going toward the Malcolm Smith Legend Painting for $6,000. Photo courtesy AIMExpo.

Coming up tomorrow:

Thursday promises a full-throttle mix of education, innovation, and connection across the show floor. With forward-looking conversations on electrification, customer behavior, and smarter operations, there’s something happening at every turn.

Expect meaningful education sessions, lively Tech Talks, and nonstop opportunities to connect with brands, peers, and industry leaders.

See everything planned for Thursday in the full show schedule, available online or in the show app.