The California Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board (California ARB) is a good source of information for those looking to find out in advance the new models that motorcycle manufacturers will release a few months down the road. It looks like the “Chief Dark Horse” may join the Classic, Vintage, Chieftain and Roadmaster Chiefs for the 2016 year Chief line up (see CARB executive order after the jump) Continue reading ‘A 2016 Indian Chief Dark Horse? An Indian Springfield Trademark?’
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A 2016 Indian Chief Dark Horse? An Indian Springfield Trademark?
Published by January 24th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.Custom Ducati Scramblers Unveiled At Verona Motor Bike Expo (January 23-24-25)
Published by January 24th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Using a marketing strategy that most motorcycles manufacturers use to promote their new releases, Ducati has asked 3 Italian custom builders to show their skills on the new Scrambler models (Classic, Full Throttle and Urban Enduro.) Unveiled yesterday Friday 23rd at the Verona Motor Bike Expo, these custom creations have for objectives to show how far Scrambler buyers can go to it their own.
1- Shop Mr Martini, Verona, Italy. Builder went the Café Racer inspiration route with a new rear and front kit created for this project. A new performance rear suspension, relocated foot pegs and a new custom made high exhaust system contribute to the street racer attitude.
2- Shop Deus Ex Machina , Bologna, Italy. The shop turned the Scrambler into a dirt track racer with a complete bodywork makeover: a one-piece tail section and a weird front fascia framing a rectangular headlight and a front fender whose purpose is only styling and not road debris or mud protection. A shorty exhaust with silencer and a bigger front rotor are supposed to mean racer. Deus creation is named “Hondo Grattan” in reference to the first horse to win 21 races at Harold Park Paceway, near Sydney Australia.
3- Shop Officine Mermaid Milan, Italy. Builder Dario Mastroianni trashed all parts that would not be necessary to ride in the mud. A new set of gold rim and hub enduro wheels (21” front, 18” rear), steel sbrushed fenders and a sinister black say what this “Scratch” Gambler is all about.
The Las Vegas BikeFest Team Will Produce The 2015 Hollister Motorcycle Rally And Beyond
Published by January 24th, 2015 in Editorial and Events.
From a PR. The Hollister Downtown Association of Hollister, California has selected ConvExx to produce the iconic Hollister Motorcycle Rally starting in 2015. Known as the “Birthplace of the American Biker” the Hollister Motorcycle Rally has been around for over 70 years. ConvExx is an event production company based in Las Vegas with over 40 years’ experience producing public events and trade shows. ConvExx is the same team that has produced Las Vegas BikeFest for the past 14 years and has also produced many of the top trade shows in the United States including the SEMA Show and the SHOT Show, both based in Las Vegas. Continue reading ‘The Las Vegas BikeFest Team Will Produce The 2015 Hollister Motorcycle Rally And Beyond’
Azzkikr Custom Baggers Entering The Victory Market With New Custom Parts
Published by January 23rd, 2015 in Builders, Chassis, Customs, Editorial and Events.
After working since its creation on the custom Harley market (bikes and parts), Phoenix shop Azzkikr Custom Cycle is now entering the custom Victory market with a new venture called Victory Lane. “We are adding new custom parts all the time and hope to establish ourselves in the Victory market like we have in the Harley touring market. Victory Motorcycles is a great brand with a growing following and we are proud to be a part of the movement towards greater choices in the American touring motorcycle market” says Azzkikr CEO Len Edmondson. Continue reading ‘Azzkikr Custom Baggers Entering The Victory Market With New Custom Parts’
The CV Performance Harley Fuel Inlet Elbow does two important jobs – it increases fuel flow by up to 40% when using a 5/16″ fuel line and it improves the fuel flow system integrity by replacing the stock plastic inlet with a solid brass unit.
It replaces the two-piece plastic item that come stock on CV and early Harley Keihin “butterfly” carbs. The plastic inlet can crack, leak or break as it hardens and gets brittle with age. This also means it is also nearly impossible to keep from damaging the stock unit when servicing the carburator.
Unlike other 2-piece design fuel inlets the CVP Fuel Inlet Elbow eliminates any possible leak issues and allows for use of a larger diameter 5/16″ fuel hose, providing the best connection for maximum fuel flow. Comes complete with a new stainless steel fuel line clamp. Simple installation instructions included. $18.95. CV Performance.
Victory Motorcycles Steps Into The Performance World Of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Drag Racing With The creation Of Victory Factory Racing.
Published by January 23rd, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Victory Motorcycles is taking a bold step into the performance world and partners with Matt Smith to create NHRA Pro Stock Factory Effort. The Victory riding team will be World Champion Matt Smith and his wife.co-rider Angie.
Victory intends to compete at the pinnacle of the sport and anticipates a strong and professional effort with the skills and experience of Matt and Angie Smith.
“Victory is excited to enter the world of NHRA Pro Stock Drag Racing.” said Steve Menneto, VP Motorcycles for Polaris. “It is Victory’s intent to continue to test ourselves at the highest levels and the Victory Factory Racing Team is the perfect opportunity for us. Continue reading ‘Victory Motorcycles Steps Into The Performance World Of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Drag Racing With The creation Of Victory Factory Racing.’
New Indian Scout Products from Trask Performance. Exhaust, Mufflers, Handlebars.
Published by January 22nd, 2015 in Controls, Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
Trask Performance introduces three new hot products for the Indian Scout. First up a new 2 into 1 exhaust system with a classic vintage look and stated by the manufacturer to provide performance gains throughout the entire power-band, Dyno developed and Dyno tested, this 2 into 1 exhaust system produced just under 98 HP, and 74 ft-lbs of torque in combination with their Trask Scout air filter, a 15% overall increase in power and torque.
Made from high quality steel pipe that is mandrel bent. Exhaust features O2 bungs built in, along with full heat shield coverage. Available in chrome, black ceramic coated finish or a black/chrome combination finish. MSRP $899.95
Next up are slip-on mufflers also introduced by Trask as improving performance & sound through out the entire power-band, good for at least a 10% gain in power and torque. Same high quality steel pipe, and coming in your choice of either chrome or black ceramic coated finish. MSRP $599.95
Last up, new V-line handlebars made from seamless DOM mild steel. Designed as a direct bolt-on replacement these handle bars were designed to enhance both the look and feel of your Indian Scout. Available in your choice of raw ready for paint, chrome or black powder coated finish. MSRP $279.95-$309.95. Trask Performance.Call on my behalf 623 879-8488 (these products not listed in their website at time of publication)
A World Record Jump Over Two Motorcycles. Don’t Ever Try This.
Published by January 22nd, 2015 in Editorial and Videos.New Heated Riding Gear From Harley-Davidson MotorClothes
Published by January 22nd, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
Staying warm is the difference between an epic ride and a miserable one. It’s the difference between parking a motorcycle when it’s cold, or continuing to ride. With all-new this Dual Source 12V Heated Gear from Harley-Davidson MotorClothes, your riding season just got longer….P
Harley-Davidson offers an array of new men’s and women’s liners, gloves, jackets and pants deliver the maximum 12V of heat via two sources: a rechargeable lithium ion battery or a motorcycle’s electrical system. Designed specifically for riders, all of the products feature a separate, built-in temperature controller with three distinct color-coded heat levels. To enhance performance, Microwire® technology provides the thinnest, lightest wiring system with the fastest warmth. Each new heated item offers a 3-year warranty. These are some of the new Dual-Source 12V Heated Gear options from Harley-Davidson:
Men’s Heated Dual-Source 12V Jacket Liner (P/N 98330-15VM, starting at $295). The five-panel system concentrates heat in sleeves, chest and back for optimal performance. The liner can be powered by the bike’s 12V electrical system or a 12V lithium rechargeable battery. For maximum mid-layer performance with minimal bulk, the liner is made from polyester with spandex and fleece. It’s available in S – 3XL sizes. Continue reading ‘New Heated Riding Gear From Harley-Davidson MotorClothes’
Cool Brat Style Seats For Late Model Harley Sportsters
Published by January 21st, 2015 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.
Low and tight, the Burly Brat Seats were inspired by the Japanese take on custom Harley Sportsters. A style of bikes and seats that has spread to the US and Europe. Carefully shaped to follow the frame rails and blend nicely into the gas tank. Available in 2 configurations, solo or two-up, and in 2 cover stitching patterns. Continue reading ‘Cool Brat Style Seats For Late Model Harley Sportsters’
Elio Motors To Introduce New Engine Built From The Ground Up On February 6, 2015
Published by January 21st, 2015 in Builders, Editorial, Engines and Events.
The Elio. One door, 2 seats, 3 wheels, 84 mpg, made in the USA with a $6800 price tag. And now, Elio founder and CEO Paul Elio is about to announce on February 6, 2015 what he believes is the first start-up vehicle manufacturer to develop its own internal combustion engine since Nash Motors in 1951. Engine developer IAV (a company which has worked with such global icons as Mercedes and BMW) twas been tapped to create a unique blend of power, efficiency for low-cost, highly fuel efficient commuter vehicle. The 0.9 liter, 3-cylinder engine prototype will have an official “first start” at a private event for investors, suppliers and media. The event will be held at the Plymouth, Michigan, offices of IAV.
“We looked at existing engines and couldn’t find anything that met our needs. We challenged IAV to develop something from the ground up and they delivered” says Paul Elio. The IAV team started with a three cylinder architecture and developed several Elio-specific components, including the cylinder block, cylinder heads, CAM cover, front cover, oil pan, crankshaft, camshaft, valvetrain, pistons, connecting rods, bearings and water pump. This allowed the engine development team the flexibility to keep the design simple, efficient and easy to manufacture while enabling all of the major fuel economy related attributes – combustion system, friction and pumping energy – to be enhanced. Continue reading ‘Elio Motors To Introduce New Engine Built From The Ground Up On February 6, 2015’
Many bikers have been victims of motorcycling profiling. AMA summarizes the issue by saying that “motorcyclists are frequently stopped by police as they travel simply because they ride a motorcycle or are wearing motorcycle riding apparel. Often these pretext stops are accompanied with the explanation that a traffic infraction has occurred, which is not always the case.
In some cases people have been told they are violating a law that does not exist. In other cases the violation cited simply has not occurred. Motorcyclists come from all walks of life and most are law abiding citizens. They have their travel interrupted on their way to work, family events, meetings, church and other places.” Continue reading ‘About Motorcyclists Profiling’
Electric Start Drive Kit For 1970-1978 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead
Published by January 20th, 2015 in Customs, Driveline, Editorial and Engines.
The Harley Shovelhead remain a mainstay for custom builders. Belt Drives LTD offers a belt drive conversion providing extended life, strength, smooth operation and reliability to these classic drivelines. It’s a complete “Shovel Shorty” Electric Start drive kit for 1970-1978 machines with ratchet top transmissions only.
The conversion requires the use of a 1989-2006 style starter motor, which eliminates the old technology starter solenoid. Removes the need for the solenoid battery cable, so no more slow cranking, and weak kick backs. The unique drive features a billet rear plate that covers the transmission drive while providing support for the clutch basket assembly. Continue reading ‘Electric Start Drive Kit For 1970-1978 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead’
Bike Sense Technology To Alert Driver To Prevent Accidents With Motorcycles And Bicycles.
Published by January 20th, 2015 in Builders and Editorial.
From PR Of Digital News Agency. (UK). ]. Jaguar Land Rover is developing a range of new technologies that use colours, sounds and touch inside the car to alert drivers to potential hazards and prevent accidents involving motorcycles and bicycles. Sensors on the car will detect when another road user is approaching and identify it as a motorcycle or bicycle. Bike Sense will then make the driver aware of the potential hazard before the driver sees it. Bike Sense uses lights and sounds that the driver will instinctively associate with the potential danger.
If a motorcycle or bicycle is coming up the road behind the car, Bike Sense will detect if it is overtaking or coming past the vehicle on the inside, and the top of the car seat will extend to ‘tap’ the driver on the left or right shoulder. The idea is that the driver will then instinctively look over that shoulder to identify the potential hazard. As the motorcycle or bicycle gets closer to the car, a matrix of LED lights on the window sills, dashboard and windscreen pillars will glow amber and then red as the 2-wheel approaches. The movement of these red and amber lights across these surfaces will also highlight the direction the bike is taking. Continue reading ‘Bike Sense Technology To Alert Driver To Prevent Accidents With Motorcycles And Bicycles.’
Polaris To Manufacture Electric Motorcycles Second Half Of 2015
Published by January 20th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
No surprise. Later in 2015 Polaris will debut the manufacturing of electric motorcycles at its Spirit Lake, Iowa plant. the one where Indian and Victory motorcycles are also produced. The factory counts about 1000 employees.
This news follows last week announcement that Polaris acquired the assets, trademarks of Oregon-based Brammo Electric Motorcycles. No word yet under which name/brand these electric motorcycles will be produced. Competition between Polaris and Harley-Davidson on the electrical bikes segment may be the biggest motorcycle industry story of the next few years.
Café Racers. Very few among you in the US have ridden them in the 70’s. But because of nostalgia for their own unique style and the possibility to turn a light factory bike into a Café Racer for a reasonable budget, they are very popular again on the 3 continents of North America, Europe and Asia. During the last 4 years Google Trends show that the number of internet searches has tripled for the keywords “Café Racers”…
Thanks mainly to young builders and riders, this type of motorcycle continues to evolve, borrowing visual elements from both the American Greaser culture and of the British Rocker attitude. And what is the most appropriate US brand and model platform to accomplish the conversion? Of course the Harley Sportster, soon to share this privilege with the new Indian Scout currently arriving in dealerships.
When they showed me their new creation, it was no surprise to me that brothers, best friends and passionate builders Jarrod and Justin Del Prado from DP Customs spent these last months modifying a 2002 Sportster 1200 cc to give it the distinctive bodywork and handling characteristics of a true modern Café Racer. It’s perfectly in the lineage of the type of quick rides they have built until now. But this time with suspension and braking performance in mind for a city racer. Continue reading ‘Café Sportster By DP Customs’
Compensating Sprocket Failure? BAKER Drivetrain Reliable Solution.
Published by January 18th, 2015 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
Just released, Baker Drivetrain now offers a Compensator Kit for 2007-Later Big Twins for carefree riding.
Their kit includes • a 34-Tooth Compensating Sprocket • a Motor Extension Shaft • a Cam Slider • a Spring Cup • a Retention Bolt.
Now accepting pre-orders. Shipping soon. Made in the USA. Retail Price: $399.00. BAKER Drivetrain. 517-339-3835.
Orlando Ace Café To Open This Summer. There are currently 3 Ace Café locations, including the original that opened in London in 1938. The Orlando location will be the first in the United States. The flagship London location draws thousands of people to motorcycles and cars shows and other events every week, and the Orlando Ace Café is being designed with similar events in mind. The downtown Orlando Ace Café will include a 22,600 sq-ft café, a 15,700 sq.ft retail and office space, a 7,020 sq.ft indoor enclosed live-event space and an outdoor area to display motorcycles and cars. Daytona Beach Magic City Cycles will have a satellite office at Ace Café selling motorcycles from European manufacturers Ducati, Triumph and BMW. Tampa-based Dime City Cycles, a custom shop specializing in Café racers will also be a subtenant. It is estimated that the business will employ 200 people.
2015 Indian Scout Hits UK Dealerships This Saturday January 17, 2015. Indian Motorcycle has confirmed the official UK launch of the 2015 Indian Scout will take place this coming Saturday. The Indian Scout will be available in Thunder Black, Indian Motorcycle Red, Silver Smoke and Thunder Black Smoke. UK prices start at £10,399.
Harley-Davidson India sells 2,406 Street 750s in April-Dec 2014. The Street 750 model has contributed 69 percent of H-D India’s total sales of 3,493 units between April-December 2014. The Street 750, which was launched at the 2014 Auto Expo and saw bookings and deliveries begin in March and April 2014 respectively, is manufactured at the company’s Bawal (Haryana) facility. On the production front, the company is has produced 5,154 units of this model alone at its local India factory. With the upcoming Street 500 model, it is understood that Harley-Davidson will register better numbers going forward. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
New Vintage Motorcycle Of The Week
Published by January 17th, 2015 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
This 1967 Harley-Davidson FLH is a very good illustration of those custom builders digging the past for inspiration, but creating modern machines with today’s materials and processes. “Gold Mustache” (yes, it’s the name) was built by a downtown Tokyo shop named Hawgholic. It made the trip from Japan to California where it was exhibited during the Born Free Motorcycle Show.
Bipartisan Senate Bill Would Ban Federal Funding for Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints
Published by January 17th, 2015 in Editorial, Events and Legal.
Specifically, the “Stop Motorcycle Checkpoint Funding Act” would restrict the Secretary of Transportation from granting funds to any government entity for a program to check helmet use or to create checkpoints for an operator of a motorcycle or a passenger on a motorcycle. The American Motorcyclist Association and the Motorcycle Riders Foundation fully support the bill. The bipartisan bill was introduced yesterday by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Joe Manchin (D- W.Va.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine).
“Motorcycle-only checkpoints are discriminatory, forcing riders and their passengers to do something not asked of other citizens, simply because we choose to travel on two wheels, or three, instead of four,” said Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations. “The AMA believes the money used for these operations could be better spent supporting programs that conduct rider education, reduce distracted driving and encourage motorist awareness of motorcycles.” Motorcycle riders already are subject to state registration, inspection, licensing and helmet laws and must stop at sobriety check points like all other motorists. California, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Illinois, New Hampshire and Virginia have passed legislation curbing motorcycle-only checkpoints. Continue reading ‘Bipartisan Senate Bill Would Ban Federal Funding for Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints’
The Smuggler Trunk. A Solo Tour Conversion For 2014-2015 Indian Chief Models.
Published by January 16th, 2015 in Chassis, Customs, Editorial and Seats.
If you daily commute or tour solo on on an Indian Chief, you will love this new Corbin Smuggler. Artfully designed and color matched to your paint to give a totally integrated look while adding convenient storage. For a clean look, the Smuggler trunk sits tight to the rear fender to store small items like keys and cell phones. It installs easily in place of a passenger pillion seat. Continue reading ‘The Smuggler Trunk. A Solo Tour Conversion For 2014-2015 Indian Chief Models.’
Polaris Acquired The Electric Motorcycle Business Of Brammo. Will Manufacture Electric Motorcycles Second Half Of 2015.
Published by January 15th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The rumor was running since several weeks. Today January 15, 2015 Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) officially announced it has acquired the electric motorcycle business of Brammo Inc. Acquisition includes certain sssets, technology and Trademarks. In addition, Polaris is acting as a leading investor in a recapitalization of Brammo that enables the company to focus exclusively on the design, development and integration of electric vehicle powertrains..
Going forward, the two companies will leverage Polaris’ leading position in the global powersports industry to market a variety of electric vehicles utilizing Brammo’s award winning lithium-ion electric drivetrain technology, while freeing Brammo to continue developing its innovative electric vehicle powertrains. Brammo supplies these products, including the Brammo Power™ battery pack and Brammo Power™ vehicle management systems, globally to a wide range of OEMs. As part of this transaction, Polaris will utilize the assets acquired to begin manufacturing electric motorcycles in the second half of 2015 at its Spirit Lake, IA facility. Continue reading ‘Polaris Acquired The Electric Motorcycle Business Of Brammo. Will Manufacture Electric Motorcycles Second Half Of 2015.’
New True Dual Headers By RC Components. Conceived For Low End Torque And Loads Of Horsepower.
Published by January 15th, 2015 in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
The brand new RCX Power Max Headers by RC Components for 2010 and up Harley touring models feature the smooth and stylish/radius curves of a true dual headers with the addition of a precision tuned collector that features a unique chambered design that balances the exhaust between each cylinder. This unique design creates incredible low end torque and loads of horsepower (see Dyno graph after the jump)
They are offered with a full chrome or black heat shield coverage for 2010 and up Harley-Davidson touring models. Customize the look of the Power Max headers by picking from 2 collector heat shield options: clean and smooth without visible screws or a more race-inspired look with visible screws. This system comes complete with all necessary mounting hardware and utilizes the factory mounting brackets making for a quick and easy installation. MSRP $579.00. Continue reading ‘New True Dual Headers By RC Components. Conceived For Low End Torque And Loads Of Horsepower.’
Breaking News. Harley-Davidson And The City Of Sturgis Finalizing Agreement To Make Harley The Official Brand Of The Sturgis Rally Until 2090.
Published by January 15th, 2015 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Part of the agreement is Harley-Davidson Motor Co. building a permanent Plaza in a currently vacant lot at the intersection of Main and Second streets, not far from the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall Of Fame. To be completed for the upcoming Sturgis Rally, the Plaza will be used for year-round events, from concerts, to demonstrations, to weddings. To add some Harley authentic and historic value to this Plaza, construction will use some bricks taken from the Milwaukee headquarters at Juneau Avenue and from the Harley museum. These bricks will be transported to Sturgis on Harley motorcycles.
Under the leadership of Mayor Mark Carstensen, the intention of the City of Sturgis is to produce a viable plan to capitalize on tourism before and after the 6-day rally. For sure the Plaza will help the city of Sturgis capitalize on the notoriety of the rally with tourists visiting the area. Neither the city nor the company disclosed the terms of the agreement, but it is easy to bet that other projects are or will be included in it. No doubt that Harley-Davidson Motor Co. wished to have an official claim on the rally before another brand with strong historic ties to the rally does it. The agreement has an initial term and priority renewal options reserved to Harley-Davidson running through 2090. It also prevents motorcycle manufacturers like Indian (also with very strong ties to the rally) and Victory Motorcycles from such deals with the city of Sturgis. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. Harley-Davidson And The City Of Sturgis Finalizing Agreement To Make Harley The Official Brand Of The Sturgis Rally Until 2090.’
Swiss-Custom Customizing And Tuning Show. February 19-22, 2015
Published by January 15th, 2015 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
To be held again at the Messe Zurich with customized motorcycles and 400 vendors spreading on 6 halls, the show usually features a great contingent of custom builders and parts vendors from Switzerland Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Abu Dhabi and Kuwait.
There will be Live custom building by the “Bobber Garage” and “CCCP”, a world premiere by German builder Fred Kodlin, an exhibition of famous race and drag bikes (legend Rocky Robinson, who holds the speed record of 605.7 km/h will be there to show his machine)
Winner of the Swiss-Custom bike competition will be awarded with an all-paidtrip to the CUSTOM SHOW EMIRATES 2015 in Abu Dhabi, where he will be able to gauge himself against the international bike-building elite.
Those who enjoy action will also have plenty to keep them occupied. In the outside arena at SWISS-MOTO, Gerd Habermann will be presenting his 3500-PS “Hellfire Jetbike” and demonstrating just how much power can be generated by a monster bike equipped with an helicopter turbine. Swiss-Custom Customizing & Tuning Show
