J.W. Childs Associates, L.P., an established private equity firm specializing in leveraged buyouts and recapitalization of middle-market growth companies, has acquired a majority interest in motorcycle apparel, parts and accessories retailer Cycle Gear, Inc. from Harvest Partners, LP, according to a press release issued by J.W. Childs Associates.

J.W. Childs Partner William E. Watts will assume the role of Chairman of Cycle Gear. David Bertram, Cycle Gear’s Founding Chairman, will retire from his day-to-day duties with Cycle Gear but will remain on the Board of Directors. Peter Laughton, a long-time Director of Cycle Gear, will remain on the Board. Tracy Wan, who joined Cycle Gear in 2009 as Chief Operating Officer, is being promoted to President and is joining the Board of Directors. Joseph Fortunato, a former CEO of GNC from 2005 to 2014, will join the Board as Lead Director and consultant.

“Partnering with an experienced investment firm like J.W. Childs is a logical next step in the evolution of Cycle Gear,” Bertram was quoted as saying in the press release. “I’m confident that under their stewardship we will accelerate the company’s growth. It’s been an honor working with an incredible team of passionate motorcyclists and retail professionals to grow Cycle Gear into a dominant force in the motorcycle industry. I look forward to my continued participation on the Board of Directors.”

“Cycle Gear has the leading omni-channel footprint in the motorcycle accessories category and we see significant market opportunity for the company,” Watts was quoted as saying in the press release. “This investment is a perfect fit with J.W. Childs’ long-term strategy of investing in leading specialty retailers and we look forward to helping guide this next phase of Cycle Gear’s growth. We are delighted Dave and Peter are remaining on the Board and thrilled that Joe will make his substantial experience available to Cycle Gear as we look to create meaningful value.”