In the rapidly evolving off-road powersports segment, one brand is making a name for itself by combining modern manufacturing, aggressive pricing, and a deep commitment to dealer relationships: Denago Powersports.
A modern office building fronts the Zhejiang Taotao Vehicles factory located in Jinyun County, Zhejiang Province, where Denago’s vehicles are built.(Photos: Denago Powersports)
A premium extension of Zhejiang Taotao Vehicles — much like Lexus is to Toyota — Denago officially entered the U.S. powersports market in July 2023. Less than two years later, the company invited a select group of U.S. dealers and media representatives to China for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the factory where Denago dirt bikes and ATVs are manufactured.
The trip took place from April 17-25 and included dealers from Florida, Ohio, West Virginia, and California, as well as representatives from the media. Key members of the Denago U.S. team were also in attendance, including General Manager David Garibyan, National Sales Director Johnny Hayes, former marketing manager Steve Lawler, and newly appointed marketing manager Kevin Duke.
Built for the future
The group toured Denago’s primary manufacturing facility — an expansive 1.3 million-square-foot plant constructed in 2018. The modern facility houses more than 2,000 skilled workers who collectively produce around 450,000 motorcycles and a similar number of ATVs annually. Unlike many OEMs, Denago builds its own wiring harnesses in-house, a labor-intensive process that underlines the company’s vertically integrated approach to quality control.
In addition to production lines, the factory also serves as a hub for research and development. Visitors saw firsthand how Denago’s American team collaborates with factory engineers to develop vehicles that meet the specific demands of U.S. consumers.
Denago engines are all single-cylinder powerplants, at least just for now. Bigger projects are in the works.
Prototypes and product development
Among the most exciting aspects of the visit was an early look at upcoming products. One standout was an all-new fuel-injected pit bike prototype, set to hit production lines early next year. Another was the prototype Freelander 550, a 4WD utility quad powered by a 550cc 4-valve SOHC engine with high- and low-gearing and shaft drive.
These previews helped illustrate Denago’s intent to not only compete but innovate in the U.S. powersports market — bringing thoughtfully designed, performance-driven machines to market at prices that are below the competition without cutting corners. That’s the mission of this value brand.
Brad Tews and his stepdaughter Raegen Yuncker were part of the dealer contingent to make the trip to China from Ohio. Tews owns East Central Motorsports, a value-brand focused dealership based in Kent, Ohio. We caught up with him recently for a Power Hour podcast, and he reiterated how impressed he was with the factory tour and the engineers who work with Denago from its parent company Tao Holdings.
Affordable off-road fun
ATVs rolling off the well-lit production line.
And speaking of value, Denago’s value proposition is clear: rugged, feature-rich machines that get more families into powersports. Entry-level dirt bikes start at just $699 with the MX model, a kid-friendly 107cc bike equipped with an automatic centrifugal clutch and electric starter. The semi-auto MX1 steps up to larger wheels and a 4-speed transmission for $849, while the MX2 adds a manual 125cc engine and external oil cooler for $1,049. The top-tier MX3 offers 140cc of power for $1,249.
On the ATV side, the Mudhawk 6 starts at $1,099 with a 107cc engine and electric start. The Mudhawk 10 ($1,549) adds a fuel-injected 120cc motor, front and rear racks, and dual A-arm suspension. For the same price, the Trailhawk 10 brings a sportier design. The E-Hawk 6 ($1,499) features a quiet, easy-to-use 1600W electric motor.
Denago is also ramping up its adult ATV offerings. The Mudhawk 200FI ($2,349) and Daytona 250FI sport quad ($2,499) both feature fuel injection and digital displays. Meanwhile, the Freelander 300FI ($4,199) is designed for utility-minded riders, featuring two-up seating and a standard 2,500-pound winch.
Dealer-focused, market-smart
It’s not just the pricing that sets Denago apart, it’s the partnerships. The China trip exemplified Denago’s efforts to connect directly with dealers, gather feedback, and provide a transparent view of how its machines are built. This dealer-first strategy is crucial for establishing credibility in a market where brand trust and post-sales support hold significant weight.
With manufacturing operations in both China and Vietnam, as well as U.S. facilities in Texas and California, Denago is positioning itself to be nimble and responsive to the needs of its expanding dealer network.
“One of the outstanding aspects of Denago’s structure is the importance placed on the partnerships with our dealers,” says Kevin Duke, Denago’s new marketing manager.
“They enjoy healthy margins, excellent parts support, and warranties that cover labor as well as parts. That’s why we’ve passed our 100th-dealer milestone after only two years of operations.” — Kevin Duke
As U.S. powersports dealers seek to diversify their floor plans with affordable, high-quality off-road machines, Denago appears poised to deliver. From dirt bikes for beginners to utility quads for ranchers, the brand’s product line offers an impressive mix of accessibility, performance, and dealer support, backed by a global manufacturing group that’s just getting warmed up.
NASCAR is closing out the year with one of its most tragic Decembers ever.
The latest heartbreaking incident came on Dec. 18 when legendary driver Greg Biffle, his family and some friends were killed when their plane crashed at the Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina.
Biffle’s Cessna 550 was reportedly attempting to land at around 10:15 a.m. at the airport just outside of Charlotte when the crash occurred.
Fans flocked to social media to remember Biffle, 55, who made headlines in 2024 when he flew his helicopter into hard to reach areas in North Carolina to provide relief to those trapped following Hurricane Helene.
Biffle had a 16-year career behind the wheel in the NASCAR Cup Series, starting 515 races and winning 19. He had 175 top ten finishes.
His last race with the series came in the 2022 Geico 500 in Talladega.
Biffle also drove 244 races on the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. He won 20 of those and logged 149 more top 10 finishes. He also was behind the wheel for 83 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races, winning 17 of those with 55 top 10 finishes.
His death followed the passing of Nick Joanides on Dec. 5 and Michael Annett on Dec. 2.
Joanides, 55, was a star on the West Coast scene most recently making three starts in the ARCA West Series. He also drove in the NASCAR Xfinity Series when it was called the Nationwide Series.
Annett, 39, drove for JR Motorsports from 2017 through 2021 and the team shared the news of his death on social media.
A native of Des Moines, Iowa, Annett was behind the wheel for 106 NASCAR Cup Series races, but never managed to finish in the top 10. While his results at that level were not eye-popping, Yahoo Sports noted he drove for a pair of “underfunded teams” in Tommy Baldwin Racing and HScott Racing.
Annett had more success on the Xfinity Series where he drove in 321 races with 95 top-10 finishes. His lone win came in the 2019 NASCAR Racing Experience 300 at Daytona International Speedway.
He also drove in nine NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races with two top-10 finishes.
ARCAposted a statement on Xabout both the deaths of Joanides and Annett that read, “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of ARCA Menards Series driver Michael Annett and ARCA Menards Series West driver Nick Joanides, both of whom passed away recently.”
Kyle Larson’s Hendrick Motorsports protégé, Corey Day, put NASCAR on notice following a standout debut in Australia in the Burson Auto Parts Boxing Day Bonanza ahead of the 2025 High Limit Racing International at Perth Motorplex. The 20-year-old is enjoying the NASCAR offseason ahead of his first full-time season in stock car racing at Hendrick Motorsports in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
Day, dubbed 2025 NASCAR Cup Series champion Larson’s protégé, enjoys competing on dirt and did so Down Under, making his debut in Australia. The California-born motorsport star started the Burson Auto Parts Boxing Day Bonanza from 28th and managed to fight his way all the way up to second, finishing behind race winner Buddy Kofoid in the 30-lap affair.
Day will return to action in Perth on Sunday when High Limit kicks into gear. “First night in the books down under, and it was a wild one. P28 to P2 in a non-stop feature. Ready to go with High Limit starting Sunday,” Day said on X.
Day will be hoping to stake a big claim in NASCAR’s second-string national series, following in the footsteps of Connor Zilisch, who has made the jump up to a full-time Cup Series seat. HMS have high hopes for Day, who could be a Cup driver in the near future.
“That was what I was working towards this year,” Day told NASCAR.com. “It wasn’t announced or anything, but my contract was written as next year was an option if this year went well. I guess I did a good enough job to get that option picked up. To say I’m going to run a NASCAR series full-time next year is something I’ve dreamed about doing since I was a little kid. It’s really cool.”
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“I’m ready, I’m excited,” Day added. “This year, I ran a lot of different race cars, which is really challenging to be able to progress a lot in all of them.
“I learned a lot in each and every one of them. It’s hard to be really good at one of them when you only get to do it a certain amount of times per year.”
Day can also lean on the experience of Larson, who claimed a second Cup title last month in Phoenix. Larson was left impressed by Day’s early exploits in the Truck Series this year.
At Nashville and Indianapolis Raceway Park, Day finished fifth and second, prompting praise from Larson. “It was good to see him have a strong run there. It was a track that I thought may, you know, suit his style, being able to move around and search for grip and things,” Larson said.
“He was probably one of the first, if not the first, running below the apron that night and found some speed that way. So, it just lends itself to a dirt guy’s background, probably. But yeah, he’s been slowly getting better here lately in the stock car stuff, and I’m sure gaining confidence. So yeah, I’m hopeful and excited to see how he keeps going in the #17 car,” he added.
This weekend’s action Down Under will pit Day against Larson, who won the $100,000 High Limit International at Perth Motorplex last year.
A historic motorsports facility in Millington, Tennessee, is set to make its return to the motorsports calendar after being acquired by the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA).
The IHRA is launching a new stock car series, set to rival NASCAR, with substantial prizes available for competitors. The IHRA Stock Series will offer a $2 million purse for the winner of eight races set for next year, starting in March.
The announcement was made while NASCAR was embroiled in a lawsuit with 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, and the new Tennessee facility will host two events next year. The track, formerly known as Memphis International Raceway and Memphis Motorsports Park, will return.
The location has hosted major drag race events, while also staging touring series races. The property is now officially owned by the IHRA and will be used by the organization next year, reviving the location after it was opened in the late 1980s.
“This investment honors the legacy of Memphis Motorsports Park while positioning it for a strong future,” said City of Memphis Mayor Paul Young. “IHRA’s acquisition reflects confidence in our region and creates new opportunities for tourism, local businesses, and fan experiences.”
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Amber Mills, Shelby County Commissioner, District 1, Shelby County Government, added, “As the Commissioner for District 1, I am thrilled about IHRA’s acquisition of Memphis Motorsports Park. This investment strengthens our local economy, puts world-class racing back on solid ground, and gives our families and young people a safe, exciting place to create memories for years to come.
“Having a national organization like IHRA committed to the long-term success of this historic facility is exactly the kind of partnership Shelby County needs.” Chris Thomas, Executive Director, Millington Area Chamber of Commerce, added, “Memphis Motorsports Park has long contributed to tourism and economic activity in Millington and Shelby County, and IHRA’s acquisition represents a positive step forward for the facility and the community.
“This investment supports the continued use of the track as a regional destination while creating opportunities for local businesses and future growth. The Millington Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with IHRA as this next chapter takes shape.”
Members of the IHRA also spoke about the excitement ahead of a big year. “This is a special place in American motorsports,” said Darryl Cuttell, CEO of IHRA. “This facility has a deep history in drag racing and stock car competition, and our goal is to honor that legacy while building a strong, sustainable future.
“We are committed to bringing meaningful racing back to this property while expanding its role as a destination for a wide range of events that serve racers, fans, and the surrounding community.”
Leah Martin, President of IHRA, added, “This acquisition represents more than reopening a racetrack. It is about restoring opportunity for racers, families, and the community. This facility aligns with IHRA’s racer-first vision and our commitment to grassroots motorsports, while also allowing the property to support diverse uses that strengthen its year-round impact.”
After years of racing out of residential garages, take a look inside Ricky Thornton Jr’s new race shop
Ricky Thornton Jr won 31 races in the 2025 season. He went on to finish 2nd in the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series standings.
He’s has been racing since 2005. And until now, he has only used residential garages outside of other teams he’s raced for.
400+ wins and 30+ championships later, he has opened a new shop in Iowa. Koehler Motorsports will continue to use their shop in Mount Airy, NC. But, the Iowa shop will also be used when the team is in the area.
Take a look at the photos of the Ricky Thornton Jr Racing shop below.
Ricky Thornton Jr Racing comments
The team shared the following update:
“After a career of racing out of residential garages, (and some beautiful shops of others) Ricky finally has his very own personal race shop. A true dream come true,” the team opened via social media.
“Graystone Companies- thank you Troy for the time you put into this project. Deadlines & expectations were heavily exceeded! If you’re looking to build anything in the Des Moines metro, Graystone Companies is what you’re looking for! Thank you to Ganoe Excavating, Inc. for the dirt work, D and E Outside Services for the tree removal, and Matt Allen for the floor finish!”
“Our Koehler Motorsports team will continue to race out of their Mount Airy, NC shop, but our Iowa shop will be a frequent stopping point throughout the summer!”
The 2026 season is set to begin. Thornton Jr is heading to Central Arizona Raceway for the Wild West Shootout beginning on January 10th.
Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series removes playoff format for 2026
Ricky Thornton Jr Race Shop (Photos)
Ricky Thornton Jr Race ShopBathroom – Ricky Thornton Jr Race Shop – IowaRicky Thornton Jr Race Shop – IowaFormer Shop – Ricky Thornton Jr Race Shop – Iowa
The 2026 season will be a special one for Team Penske, which made its first foray into the racing scene in 1966. Whether it’s NASCAR, IndyCar or IMSA, Team Penske has enjoyed plenty of success and plans to savor many more victories in the future.
Team Penske cars in all three major series will sport special retro livery at select races, while the team will also introduce an anniversary identity that will appear across its race cars, uniforms, digital platforms and merchandise, with the first items available online and in the team store beginning in January.
“Our 60th anniversary is a tremendous milestone for our organization,” Roger Penske said in a team release. “The 2026 season will give us the opportunity to celebrate the people, partners and fans who have helped shape Team Penske since 1966, while also looking ahead to the future. This year ahead is a meaningful one with many terrific moments for our team and story still to come.”
Few teams can match the Penske programs when it comes to success on the track. The team has 20 Indianapolis 500 victories, three Daytona 500 wins and has won at least one major championship for the past 14 years, including last season’s WeatherTech SportsCar Championship sweep of the team, drivers and manufacturers titles. It was the second straight season Porsche Penske swept the awards and last season saw the team become the first since 2017 to win Daytona and Sebring in the same season.
With the team not competing in the World Endurance Championship in 2026, Team Penske will focus all of its sportscar racing attention on IMSA. Despite winning the GTP title the past two seasons, there will be some new faces on the team in 2026.
The team will see Kevin Estre and Laurens Vanthoor move from the WEC to drive the No. 6 Porsche 963, while the No. 7 will be in the hands of Felipe Nasr and Julien Andlauer. Matt Campbell, one of the championship drivers this season, will serve as the endurance driver for the No. 6 car at Daytona, Sebring and Road Atlanta, while Laurin Heinrich will serve in the same role for the No. 7 Porsche. All six are Porsche factory drivers.
Porsche Penske will begin its 2026 season in the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with the Roar Before the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway Jan. 16-18. The Rolex 24 At Daytona begins Saturday, Jan. 24.
MANAMA: The director of the Kuwaiti Motor Sports Club, Sheikh Sabah Dawood Al-Sabah, praised the outstanding results achieved by the club’s racers in the second round of the Bahrain Drag Racing Championship on Saturday, emphasizing that they reflect the advanced level reached by Kuwaiti champions in this sport. The team director stated that the racers delivered a remarkable performance in the competitions held at the Bahrain International Circuit’s drag strip.
Abdullah Ali Al-Aqab secured first place in the Pro 29.5 category, while Ahmed Zaman took second place in the 8.5 Index category, and Fawaz Al-Awadhi finished third in the same category. The remaining members of the participating delegation also achieved high rankings in the eight rounds.
Al-Sabah affirmed that these achievements are the fruit of the continuous efforts exerted by the racers and the technical and administrative staff.
He noted the club’s commitment to providing all means of support and care to raise Kuwait’s flag high in regional and international events, wishing them continued success in future competitions.
The second round of the Bahrain National Drag Racing Championship, the most popular drag racing championship in the region, kicked off over the past two days at the Bahrain International Circuit’s drag strip. The new season of the Bahrain Drag Racing Championship is scheduled to run until March, with the third and fourth rounds taking place in January and the championship concluding in March. — KUNA
