Harley-Davidson reshapes racing strategy for 2027
Harley-Davidson is reshaping its racing program for 2027, putting greater focus on the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup while expanding grassroots racing opportunities.
The new strategy will create two complementary programs. The Bagger World Cup will serve as Harley-Davidson’s premier racing platform, while the grassroots program will offer more accessible competition across different disciplines and experience levels.
For 2027, Harley-Davidson plans to expand the Bagger World Cup with additional teams, riders, and races. The championship was launched through the company’s partnership with MotoGP, IRTA, and FIM, and will continue to serve as a development platform for Harley-Davidson performance motorcycles and Screamin’ Eagle performance products.
The inaugural season featured five different race winners, with every team reaching the podium and the championship going down to the final round.
“What we accomplished in the inaugural season of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup exceeded our expectations,” said Jeffrey Schuessler, Harley-Davidson Director for Global Racing Programs. “This is only the starting line. We now have an incredible foundation to build from.”
Harley-Davidson also plans to expand racing at the grassroots level, covering activities such as local drag racing, flat track, and dealership-based competitions.
“Our evolved racing strategy inspires all of us to ride by putting the fastest Harley-Davidson motorcycles on the biggest stage, while bringing the same competitive edge to a broader audience through our grassroots program,” said Artie Starrs, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson.
The changes will also end Harley-Davidson Factory Racing’s official involvement in MotoAmerica King of the Baggers after the 2026 season.
The factory team has competed in the series since its creation, securing three of its six national championships. Kyle Wyman is also the category’s winningest rider, with 27 individual victories.
Harley-Davidson credited MotoAmerica and its leadership for helping establish King of the Baggers, while also recognizing Indian Motorcycle Racing for pushing the team throughout the six seasons.
Although factory support will end, Harley-Davidson said the engineering knowledge and performance data gained from the program will continue to support the Bagger World Cup, motorcycle development, and race-derived Screamin’ Eagle and other performance parts.
