The Live Feed

If you are a die hard Big Kid Powersports fan or are close to the inner circle, you know that we have been up to something.  We have been working with our riders and conjuring up this idea of running a LIVE video stream from their bikes at the races.  Now, we are not the pioneers in this field, but this is a pretty sweet idea.  A lot of riders run GoPro and other action sport cameras, but that footage can't be viewed LIVE by other viewers.  We ran our feed through our LiveStream.com account.  There is a slight delay, but this allowed us to view the footage LIVE while our rider was still on the track.  Not only can we view it, but EVERYONE can watch it as it is happening.

"Ok, that's kinda cool....so what."  Our plan with this feed is to give motocross fans a new angle to enjoy the race.  I sat with some fans in the crowd at the Lake County fair race last night as they watched the race in person AND had the footage pulled up on their phones.  There is just a 'cool' factor of watching the race in real life and enhancing it with the footage from the bike as it is happening.  The very short delay actually was helpful.  There were a few moments where you watched a rider have a great jump, or a close call and you could glance down at your phone and experience what the rider saw just moments earlier.

If you were out at the track, you saw the "privateer" apparatus that was mounted to our racers bikes. Since we are still in BETA testing with this idea, we are still dialing in some mounting and angle options.  We had one issue that was boarder line scary.  I told all my racers that the camera (my phone) had nothing to do with them.  It was my problem, ignore it, don't even think about it being there.  Well, there was one race that my mount almost became a problem.  While on Griffith's 65, the brake line came up and over the phone after some big air.  The hose grabbed the camera and mount and pulled it down hard.  Once back in the pits, we were able to see how tight the brake line had gotten and realized that this could have been a pretty significant issue.  Back to the drawing board on mounting areas.

All in all, the LIVE feed from the bike was a great success.  We will be dialing it in and growing this idea for the upcoming races.  We had two objectives with the launch of this idea.  Be first and get a buzz.  We were first in local races to run a live video stream from a bike and there were racers talking about it in the pits.  So, in my book, it was successful.  Big Kid Powersports and their Live Feed.....it's official.  If you missed the live feed event, you can check out the archived videos from the race at https://livestream.com/accounts/14377803. It is raw footage, as it happened that night, so you will want to scroll around in the video to see some highlights.  Enjoy and stay tuned.

Partsnado

On the night of July 22nd 2015, an unusual storm threatened Northern Illinois.  Luckily, 2 unlikely dudes stepped up to the plate to save the community.  In Northern Illinois, there is a small community called Lakemoor, IL.  This town is home to one of the largest used powersports parts shops in the midwest.  Big Kid Powersports was the center of growing story this morning.  We spoke with owners Mike Missak and Doug Hein about their pretty crazy experience last night.  "It got really dark, really quick.  I didn't realize it was so windy until it was too late.", states Missak, "Luckily, we had prepared ourselves for a situation like this."  

What Mike is referring to is categorized as a type of Micro burst by meteorologists.  A swirling, tornado like storm that is centralized over one area.  The storm cultivated over the Lakemoor parts shop at about 7.30pm Wednesday evening.  "Something felt unusual, but I just could not pinpoint what", reflects Hein.  Talking with Missak and Hein, you can tell that it was a traumatic incident.  Missak says that the storm quickly grew a funnel cloud and slammed straight down into the shop.  "The storm took all the parts out of the shop almost immediately", Missak states.  "Once it happen, we knew what we were dealing with", Hein adds.  "Partsnado", the heroic duo say in unison.  That's right, the powerful funnel storm, now known as "Partsnado" was littered with powersport parts and it was threatening the town.  

"I armed my self with the impact wrench and Doug took a 10mm", Mike reminisces.  "We took to the roof and we parted the storm almost as quickly as it started."  Doug states that he was yelling, "Get some" and "not in my house" as the storm dissipated. 

When asked about the damage the dudes proudly share that it was cleaned up late last night.  "People need parts and we need to be here for them", Doug says.  

Missak and Hein are open for business and will gladly share their story with anyone that wants to hang out and listen.  It was a crazy night that, luckily, no one will ever know about.

  

EL Chopo Escapes

On the morning of Wednesday July 15, Big Kid Powersports found that El Chopo (pronounced Chop-O) had escaped from the chopping block area of the shop.  El Chopo is also known by his street name, The Butcher.  Big Kid Powersports has kept the public safe from El Chopo (other than an issue in 2009) and channeled his abilities into parting machines at their shop.  Rarely seen by the public, El Chopo is the backbone of the powersports company in Lakemoor, IL. 

Early reports show that El Chopo used his tool of choice, a Sawsall, to cut a hole in the back of the shop.  He was last seen at lights out Tuesday evening about 6 pm.  When the store opened at 8.30 Wednesday morning, El Chopo was gone.  The public should not be concerned for their safety.  El Chopo is not considered dangerous to the public.  "We just want him back in the bay.  We need him." says one of the shop owners, Mike Missak.

Hole that El Chopo escaped from

Fellow owner, Doug Hein, says that the only situation that would be concerning would be if El Chopo began to negotiate.  He urges powersport sellers on Craigslist and the FB page, The MotoXchange to be aware that El Chopo is free and to not get into negotiations with him.  "He is a damn viking when it comes to negotiating....it's intense" says Hein.

If you see El Chopo in public, feel free to approach him and tell him to get back to work.  You can also call 815-363-1254 to report sightings.

A twisted up piston, Instagram, and overnight shipping

Surfing through posts on Instagram one day, I come across this piston that looks like it is from a Edvard Munch painting (that's the Scream Painting for you less artsy folks) and it grabs me.  I have seen busted, melted, pulverized, pistons before but the way the connecting rod twisted and pulled this piston at the wrist pin fascinated me.  After reading the caption of this carnage I realized what this situation really was.  JDS Racing, a family run race team with riders in the Midwest and Florida, was stuck in a pretty good stand still right before a pretty huge shoot out race.  There was an opportunity there.  An opportunity that was set up on the plate for Wiseco, but I was going to get in that door first.  I commented that Big Kid Powersports has a Wiseco 250r Raptor piston and could have it to Florida the next day so the Raptor could be assembled and back at the track for the weekend.  We had about 4 days to get this piston to these guys so they could assemble a motor overnight and be at one of the largest MX4 races in the south.  They crushed it at the race that weekend and mangled up the 250 pretty good again.  No worries, Big Kid's have it covered.  Overnighting more parts to get them into the final race night so they could end the season 2nd in points.

Our relationship with JDS Racing has grown and they are now our sponsored riders. Travis, Jason, and Marissa are great riders and have an awesome following on Social.  We are stoked to have them carry the Big Kid name and we can't wait to see where they go in the future.

Supercross AND Snocross

ISOC SnoX Live Coverage from Shakopee, MN

 

Supercross Anaheim 1 Live feed for qualifying and practice.

How it's Made; FMF Exhaust

FMF Exhaust will be on the Science/Discovery Channel's "How it's Made" tonight at 9pm est.  FMF exhaust systems are all hand made in California, so it should be a pretty cool segment to watch.  Set your DVR for tonight!

http://science.discovery.com/tv-shows/how-its-made/tv-schedule.htm

Live ISOC Race Feed: Bessemer, Mi

Live streaming video by Ustream

Market Test: Lambo Hood

"Showboating" parts are increasing in popularity within the sled industry.  Now a days you can get LED light kits, remote start, gucci windshield trim, and any custom color parts you can imagine.  There is still room for more head turning parts.  Big Kid Powersports has brought a new product to the test market.  This is the Lambo hood hinge.

The Lambo hood hinge allows you to open your hood normally, but then at about half way open, the hood swings sideways.  Much like a Lambroguini, the shock value is addictive when you have your sled on display.

The prototype is on a 1996 Arctic Cat ZRT, because frankly, most older Arctic Cat riders are that kinda rider.  The next round will be for any "pro" sled (ProX, SnoPro, or MXZx)... you know.. cause, straight bars, 9 inch risers and rear shocks tweaked so tight, the rear bogies are the only part that touches the ground are the perfect match for a Lambo hood.

It may not be the hottest seller, but you will see one of these out at the bars come winter 2016.  BRAAAAAAP!

Letter to Miley

Dear Miley,

We at Big Kid Powersports have become a safe house for Ditch Bangers all over the world.  We have opened our doors to those that need parts for their powersport machines and we don't judge them based on how they damaged their rides.  We have helped so many riders get back in the ditches, on the trails, tracks, and roads of America.  We keep them out of the hands of "The Dealers" and we send them back into the world with a sense of security and confidence.  They are part of something bigger.  They are part of a family.  Our family.  A family that spans the world.  A family that shares the passion, the drive, and addiction for riding.  And like any family, we have a crest.  That crest tells the world what we are all about.  That crest stands proud on many of our chests.

You have shocked many communities with the VMA twerk, a cut up Jordan Jersey, and whatever that Sinead O'conner thing was.  Honestly, I didn't pay attention to that one.  I didn't even know O'Conner was still around.  Doesn't matter.  We understand that you are starting a "movement".  We have a movement of our own that we have been painstakingly building.

What you have done is preposterous, and hurtful.  We would like a formal apology.  An apology to all of the Ditch Bangers in the world.  What we find so devastating is.... you never invited us to your Ditch Bangerz Lounge.  It looks KILLER!  And WTF, we never made spandex sports bra's with the IBD crest on it.  What a great idea!  I know a few guys that would wear that too... well, should.

Anywhoooo... in closure, next time you hang in your Ditch Bangerz Lounge, invite us all over to hang.  Nothing says party like dirt bikes, sleds, atvs, and side by sides scattered all over the lawn.  Let's make this a thing.  We will have your Dad over and throw down a mud bog.  Let's do this.

Thank You,
Doug and Mike
Owners of Big Kid Powersports
Ditch Banger Headquarters

SX Minneapolis Practice and Qualifying

BigKidPowersports.com

SX Track Map Minneapolis 4/13/13

BigKidPowersports.com

Jackson Hole Hill Climb

Check the live feed from Jackson Hole Hill Climb.

Need Gear?  

Free Shipping at BKBoatnSleds.com

Supercross, Aye

Dirt bike parts, all makes, all models, FREE online shipping.

BKBoatnSleds.com

BkBoatnSleds.com

Supercross and ISOC

Watch the live feed from trials at Supercross in INDY!

Check out live racing in Lake Geneva with the ISOC season ender!

Kunstman Bros

  Big Kid Powersports would like to welcome Kevin and Kyle Kunstman to the 2013 race team.  Kyle will be racing the 250B class on a 03 RM125 and Kevin will be riding the 250C 25+ class on a 2011 CRF250.

Watch for these guys out at the track and we will keep you posted on their season!

Big Kid Powersports.com

Atlanta SX Live Stream

BigKidPowersports.com 

New-Used-OEM Powersport Parts and Gear

Rider Search 2013

The seasons are changing and the dirt is going to start flying soon.  Big Kid Powersports is looking to hit this dirt track season with some fresh racers and big energy.  We are looking for local racers (Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin) that share the love and passion that we have for powersports.  At this time we are looking for motocross, ATV, and UTV racers.  We have 4 spots available (3 moto and 1 ATV).  Please check out the app below and send your resume and answers to info@bkboats.com


What BK Has to Offer
     With a BK racer account, you will be snagging Aftermarket and OEM parts at dealer cost.  You will also receive huge discounts on used parts for your race bike.  Everything we carry is at cost for racers, hard parts, helmets, gear, wear items, and more.  We will feature you on our racer page on our website.

What We Would Like to See From Our Racers
We love helping out the privateer that is loading into his/her van, truck, trailer and sleeping at the track for the weekend.  Someone who lives and breathes racing.  We don't care if you are making the podium or eating dirt in the first turn, if you are passionate about racing and are out there hitting the whoops, we want to support you.  We also look for riders that are active on social media sites and are not shy about their sponsors at the track.

Lets Hear A Little About You
If you feel that you would be a good addition to our team, send us an email (info@bkboats.com) with the following info.

• Name and Racer #
• Hometown
• Where do you race?
• How long have you been racing?
• What class and bike do you ride?
• Explain to us how YOU will promote us at the track, online, and at races.
• Please also send us a picture of your bike and one of you racing.

We will be choosing our new additions on March 1st.  Get your app in and check out our website at BigKidPowersports.com.  Even if you are not one of our racers, we offer great deals and free shipping on all online orders!

Dealer Expo 2013

Mike and Doug, owners at Big Kid Powersports (BkBoatnSleds.com), headed down to Indy for the 2013 Dealer Expo.  Dealer Expo is the event of all events in the powersport industry.  It's the place to see new product, touch current product, and talk to the people that know the ins and out of everything powersports.

We met up with 2 of our largest suppliers, WPS and Marshall Distributing, to see their new products and snag some closeouts.  WPS's massive display of merchandise is always impressive.  From their house brand FLY Racing to other vendors like Liquid Image and Scala Rider, everything out and ready for dealers to try and touch.  Our rep walked us through the WPS booth and showed us the new V twin hard parts that are going to be available this season.  It's going to be pretty huge!

The Marshall booth was our next major stop.  We met with our very knowledgeable rep and spent about an hour looking at new product and checking out the closeouts.  We will have a very nice Zoan helmet for street season that is going to ring up VERY cheap.  That's going to be one to watch for.  We learned about Marshall's house brand and the companies that make the gear and hard parts for them.  It's quality stuff and when you hear the names that are behind them, you will trust you are getting a stellar product.

This Indy weekend is also about seeing new products and fresh companies.  One of the most impressive products that we saw came from a company named Voztec.  They had a prototype of their street helmet that will revolutionize the way helmets are designed.  The helmet had no chin strap and the rear of the helmet hinges up so you can slide your head in from the back of the helmet. Once you bring the front of the helmet to your face, you bring the back down and it snaps into place.  In case of a truama incident, the EMT's can remove the whole front of the helmet, leaving your head on the back of the helmet, untouched, so a neck brace can be slipped behind the neck.  Less movement leading to less chance of further issues.

The Voztec helmet is obviously a high end helmet and carries a price tag to match.  It's a great design and we think you will be seeing more of this design in the future.  Voztec is on the edge of something amazing.

There were a ton of other new products released at Indy.  One of our favorite places to stop is Risk Racing. They always have products that are problem solvers for Moto riders.  This year, they were demonstrating the Mud Grip.  The Mud Grip is a foam grip that slides on over your existing bar grip.  It is made from a foam that is similar to an air filter.  

It doesn't seem like much, but Doug demo'ed it and it made a slippery, muddy grip tight and solid.  There was no more slipping around with a muddy glove.  It's a simple, affordable tool to give you a lead out on the track. 

Possibly the best part of the show is seeing who's there.  This year, we met up with the legendary Jeremy McGrath at the Bel Ray oil booth.  There was also the Hart & Huntington fashion show and the NPA Live auction.

We also sat in on some seminars and learned quite a bit.  The trip to Indy is also a time where we get to come up with some ideas and really spend some time thinking about things.  Locked up in a rental car for 4 hours both ways will force you to brainstorm.  It's a great time and some amazing ideas came out of it.  We will be acting on these opportunities and implementing these ideas to bring you the best experience we can.  We want you benefit from the end result of BK, so if it doesn't benefit YOU, we don't want to do it!

For great deals and to see more about the products we carry, check us out at BigKidPowersports.com

Chrome it.

Our friends at KDX Auto Painting rolled out their first sled with the new colored chrome paint on it.  We have been watching the transformation and the process is pretty slick.  There is a lot of skill involved in getting it to really pop and Dave at KDX has it nailed.  This sled was a special edition to begin with, but what KDX did to it makes it one of a kind.  Our first question was, "is it going to hold up on that windshield?".  Ditch Bangers know that 'things happen' and I see that windshield bending, getting bumped and scraped.  Dave had a great answer for me and didn't use any words.  He took another painted windshield, bent it, rolled it up, and stood on it.  When it popped back, there was no sign of damage to the chrome paint.  That sealed the deal for me.

We've seen wraps, we've seen customizations, but never chrome paint like this.  If you want to stand out in the pow pow or the ditches, you gotta get in touch with KDX and get chromed out.


-Doug
Bkboatnsleds.com 
"Gear, Parts, & Bangin"

4 Killer Deals

Choose one of the following deals this week and hopefully you get away scott free.......

 bkboatnsleds.com

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 bkboatnsleds.com

Offers are only available through BKBoatnSleds.com

Offers can not be combined.