King Of The Baggers Is Expanding for 2027

MotoAmerica announced on November 4 that Mission King Of The Baggers will grow in 2027, with a larger Indian Motorcycle presence in the paddock, updated technical rules, and a class open to more manufacturers.

The news comes after a landmark first season for the Vance & Hines Motorsports and Indian Motorcycle partnership. The factory team won 10 of the 14 races in 2026, set a team record with 24 podiums, and carried Hayden Gillim to the championship. Gillim and Troy Herfoss will both return in 2027.

The changes follow Harley-Davidson’s decision to end its factory King Of The Baggers program after the 2026 season. MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey said Indian’s commitment will put more bikes on the grid and that other manufacturers are now interested in joining the class. In his words, “MotoAmerica racing is always about competition, the more, the better.”

What’s changing for 2027

• Longer engine life: The revised rules aim to extend engine life and reduce rebuilds while keeping the racing close.
• Set rev limits: Indian will run a 7,500 rpm limit and Harley-Davidson 7,000 rpm, and the existing balancing framework stays in place.
• Standardized ECU: Full-season teams must use the MotoAmerica Maxx ECU Race unit with controlled firmware, which prohibits traction control and lift control. Single-event entries and teams racing three rounds or fewer are exempt.
• More manufacturers: Other brands can request approval to enter production-based touring and bagger motorcycles, subject to technical and competitive evaluation.
• Better access to engines: MotoAmerica is working with multiple engine suppliers to make competitive equipment easier to get.

MotoAmerica Technical Director Tige Daane said the changes are designed to reduce major engine work, helping teams manage their budgets and spend more time on track. The final rules package will be published before the 2027 season begins.

Read the full announcement from MotoAmerica: MotoAmerica Expands King Of The Baggers For 2027 With Bigger Indian Motorcycle Presence, New Manufacturers And New Rules