Published by Cyril Huze January 14th, 2015
in Controls, Customs and Editorial.
The 2015 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and Road Glide Special, the two sleek, shark-nose touring models, have a passionate following of riders looking for massive bad attitude and mile-devouring function.
To add a little bit of bad behind the fairing, these bars available in 10″ and 12″ heights. Custom heights also available upon request and will be hand-made just for you. Pre-drilled for internal wiring. They can be installed without longer cables or modifications. Specifications: • Width 35″ •Center Width:12″ • Diameter: 1 1/4” • Thickness: 0.120 • Pullback :4.5″ or 20 degrees. Available raw, in chrome, powder coated matte or gloss black. $378.99. At Spooky Fast
Published by Cyril Huze January 14th, 2015
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Ordinary is not his style. British engineer Allen Millyard use factory engine parts to build engines that no other engineers have ever thought of building. Or he creates almost from scratch new motors with very unique configurations, creating in a small garage workshop wooden patterns to cast aluminum crankcases, patiently building by hand connecting rods and other parts. Most recently, Millyard built one-off V12 engines, a street bike from a Didge Viper, and 5-liter V-Twin out of 2 cylinders from a Pratt & Whitney 1340 radial engine for a Flying Merkel type board track motorcycle. The video below is about the first test run on this new unique engine in the family garden. Sounds very good……
Published by Cyril Huze January 14th, 2015
in Editorial.
Two women were out for a Saturday stroll. One had a Doberman and the other, a Chihuahua . As they walked down the street, the one with the Doberman Said to her friend, “Let’s go over to that bar for a drink.” The lady with the Chihuahua said, “We can’t go in there. We’ve got dogs with us.” The one with the Doberman said, “Just watch, and do as I do.”
They walked over to the bar and the one with the Doberman put on a pair of dark glasses and started to walk in. The bouncer at the door said, “Sorry, lady, no pets allowed.” The woman with the Doberman said, “You don’t understand. This is my seeing-eye dog.” The bouncer said, “A Doberman?” The woman said, “Yes, they’re using them now. They’re very good.” The bouncer said, “OK, come on in.” Continue reading ‘Joke Of The Week’
Published by Cyril Huze January 13th, 2015
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The Hinckley, UK company sold 54,432 units as indicated in its last financial report ending June 2014. This number tops the 52,000 motorcycles sold in the previous 12-month fiscal year. It’s a sales record since its relaunch 30 years ago. Triumph Motorcycles Ltd is the largest British motorcycle manufacturer. It was established in 1984 by John Bloor after the original company Triumph Engineering went into receivership. Triumph Motorcycles has 1600 employees and heavily invest in production sites in India and Brazil.
Published by Cyril Huze January 13th, 2015
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
While the new Scout is still arriving in Indian dealerships, expect a flurry of new parts to be announced to customize it. One of the first is an “Outrider Rad Guard Radiator Screen” conceived to accent, not to hide, and protect the factory radiator.
It’s an easy to install part (instructions and adhesive included) made of laser-cut honeycomb aluminum mesh that will also protect the Scout radiator from road debris. MSRP $74.95.
Other “Outrider” series parts for the Scout are scheduled to be released during this quarter and will include front and rear fenders, seat pan kit, and more. At Klock Werks.
Published by Cyril Huze January 13th, 2015
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
During 2 days (Jan. 7-8) some amazing machines were on the floor of the Las Vegas Bally’s Hotel & Casino for the 5th Annual Bonhams’ Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction. As in all auctions, some of them didn’t meet the reserve, with others largely beating expectations of their vendors.
A 1950 Vincent Series C White Shadow Classic motorcycles from Britain filled the ranks of the top grossing machines at Bonhams’ world-famous motorcycle auction in Las Vegas on Thursday.
The Vincent brand in particular saw two world records achieved for a 1950 Vincent Series C “White” Shadow – one of just 15 produced, which was the most valuable Shadow ever sold at auction when it made $224,250, and a 1949 Vincent Touring Rapide with Blacknell Bullet Sidecar, which became the most valuable post-war Rapide sold at auction when it was bought for $126,500.
A beautifully restored 1936 Brough Superior SS80 with Watsonian Sport Sidecar also achieved a world auction record for a Matchless-engined SS80 when it was sold to a private collector for $115,000. Also selling for the same price, making it too a world auction record for the model, was the 1962 Matchless G50 that helped carry legendary American racer Dick Mann to his championship. Continue reading ‘Bonhams’ 5th Annual Las Vegas Motorcycle Auction. Main Results.’
Published by Cyril Huze January 13th, 2015
in Editorial, Events and Legal.
It has been 19 years since the federal Judge agreed with motorcyclists that law enforcement officers had been writing helmet tickets without probable cause. But some police officers across the state of California didn’t stop writing tickets in violation of the injunction and federal case law, violating riders’ rights. Most riders honestly believe the federal government has approved the sale of certain helmets based on what they look like (though it doesn’t), and they think a DOT sticker is issued by the Department of Transportation (but it isn’t). In other words, many believe you must wear a “DOT approved” helmet. As a matter of fact The DOT does not issue the certification stickers, and the DOT does not stamp approval on any helmets, or even any other product. It’s hard to un-learn something you have believed so long…. Tickets can be based on recall notices or test results but not, like it’s often the case, because of the absence of a DOT sticker… Continue reading ‘Mandatory Helmet Law Fight in California. A Message From Freedom Fighter John Rogue To Support Those Who Defend Your Rights.’
Published by Cyril Huze January 12th, 2015
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Published by Cyril Huze January 11th, 2015
in Editorial and Events.
Meade County South Dakota is considering building a new road which will connect I-90 to Highways 34/79. This is important to anyone planning to attend the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally this year as crowds are expected to top 1 million. Anyone who has ridden through Sturgis during the rally understands that the streets and surrounding highways are nearly always congested to the point that traffic crawls very slowly causing accidents and overheating of both bikes and riders. Additionally it is nearly impossible to reach the nearby Fort Meade Veterans Hospital which is of great concern to those who rely upon their medical services.
The new road would allow direct and safe access to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, Glencoe, Full Throttle Saloon and many other smaller rally venues from I-90. This would also alleviate some congestion through the city of Sturgis, make all area roads safer and riding more enjoyable. All bikers planning to attend the 75th Anniversary of the Sturgis Rally in 2015 should consider supporting this new road. Continue reading ‘A Road Issue Affecting All Sturgis Rally Attendees’
Published by Cyril Huze January 11th, 2015
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
I didn’t know that Canadian-American actor, singer, writer, producer, director, spokesman, and comedian William Shatner loves motorcycles. At the age of 83, he starts a company named Rivet Motors in partnership with Kevin Sirotek of American Wrench. Shatner describes his 2-seater project “as the cycle of the future, a machine as distinguished and iconic as the man himself.” Well I let you judge in these 2 videos… When ready, Shatner will do a promotional ride with “The Rivet” from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Published by Cyril Huze January 10th, 2015
in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
If you love black, pick the right black. These RCX 4.0” ceramic coated exhaust slip-ons feature a black satin sheen more striking than what is possible from any painted finish. Ceramic coating provides corrosion and heat resistance to ensure durability and performance. Style them with a choice of over 12 different billet end caps. At RC Components.
Published by Cyril Huze January 10th, 2015
in Editorial and Events.
A year long California Highway Patrol (CHP) Study Concluded That Lane-Splitting Is Not Necessarily Hazardous t if the rider is traveling close to the same speed as nearby autos. But it is additional hazardous when motorcyclists go much more than ten-15 mph more quickly than cars they’re passing
Polaris Industries Inc. To Build New Production Facility In Alabama. The new production facility in Huntsville, Alabama will provide additional capacity and flexibility as the company continues to experience rapid growth. Located Southwest of Huntsville City Center, the 600,000 square-foot facility on a 453-acre site will focus on off-road vehicle production. Polaris selected Huntsville due to its skilled workforce, history of technology and innovation, existing utility infrastructure, and strong local and state resources supporting economic development. The offers Polaris close proximity to its key customer base in the Southeast U.S. and strong logistics network.“This new facility will complement our already strong and growing North American manufacturing footprint by reducing pressure on our existing facilities and enable each to remain focused on their current product lines as we continue to meet the demand for our innovative, quality products.” said Ken Pucel, Executive Vice President of Operations, Engineering, and Lean, Polaris Industries Inc.
Harley-Davidson (NYSE:HOG) Has Received A “BBB” Credit Rating From Analysts At Morningstar. The firm’s “BBB” rating suggests that the company is a moderate default risk. They also gave their stock a three star rating. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Published by Cyril Huze January 9th, 2015
in Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
The new Metzeler Tire ME888 120/55R26 is officially available today. January 9, 2015* (see added note at bottom).
Metzeler states that this 26” front tire offers ultra high-mileage with Metzler performance and handling and outstanding high and low speed stability with smooth handling. MSRP is $280.00. Metzeler USA. (motorcycle by Harley-Davidson Thunderbike Germany)
Added 01/12/15 at 9.25 am. The marketing department of Pirelli/Metzeler just advised me of a delay in this tire availability. “The tire is not available now, and likely will not be for at least a few months. Right now the earliest we believe the product will be available is April but that is not 100%.”
Published by Cyril Huze January 9th, 2015
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
It’s that time of year when people like to make predictions for the coming year. Truth is that those forecasts, including mine, often describe what has already started to happen over the past year. Easier to see more in a rear-view mirror than inside a crystal ball. Below the market trends that I see appearing or becoming more visible in 2015. And they are all positive for our beloved custom motorcycle industry.
1- Custom Motorcycles. What Is Trending. Taking a factory motorcycle and making it your own or building one from the ground up is a deep human desire of self expression, an impulse that will never die. You ask me all the time, what is the new trend? I read on many faces some disappointment when I answer that currently there is no new unique big trend because – like in fashion – there are several trends living side by side, evolving somewhat year to year, but with no prominent style dominating the others as it was during the 2000-1005 long and over-raked choppers craze. These co-existing trends are largely influenced by demographics and economic factors and of course the media. Demographic considerations gave a new life to both the mild to wild customized Baggers for well-to-do boomers, and socio-economic considerations to the re-invented “Sportster For All,” men and women, now dressed as a Tourer (by Harley-Davidson), as a Cafe Racer or a Bobber (thanks to a plethora of body kits and of aftermarket accessories to achieve the makeovers), and marginally as a Digger for the most professional builders. The new Indian Scout, with its strong heritage, is a going to be a great source of inspiration and a fabulous canvas for customization. Now available at your dealership, expect many of them to receive mild or radical makeovers obliging bike show organizers to create a competition class just for this new model. A multiyear exposure to TV series like “Sons Of Anarchy” has renewed the interest of many for the FXR and Dyna models, both comfortable and easy to customize platforms with a moderate budget. In 2015 expect more garage and professional builders turning them into mean Club Bikes made to show the street what you are made of, and ride and ride. Continue reading ‘What Will Be Trending In 2015’
Published by Cyril Huze January 9th, 2015
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Victory Motorcycles is recalling 2,342 model year 2013-2014 Victory Cross Country, Cross Roads, Hammer Eight Ball, High Ball, Jackpot, Vegas Eight Ball, 2014 Victory Cross Country Eight Ball, Cross Roads Eight Ball, Ness Cross Country, 2015 Victory Gunner, and 2013 Victory Hardball motorcycles. Continue reading ‘Polaris Recalls Victory Motorcycles With Fuel Pump Issue’
Published by Cyril Huze January 8th, 2015
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
His name is Tamás Jakus. He is an artist, illustrator and designer from Hungary. That you like or not theme bikes, you must admit that this concept Harley-Davidson motorcycle is quite interesting and successful at translating on a 2-wheeler the pre-World War II spirit and streamlining of a 1936 Bugatti 57SC Atlantic. Atlantico Concept Motorcycle by Jakusa Design.
Published by Cyril Huze January 8th, 2015
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Leader Motorcycle is a manufacturer and supplier of motorcycle accessories including mounts for GPS, phone and other electronics. All mounts are stainless steel and machined aluminum then chrome plated. Each order includes everything you need, you just provide the allen wrench. The Swivel-CAM Motorcycle Camera Mount was designed to minimize vibration, give you a multitude of angles to shoot from, and provide a classy look. Important: The base bracket offers security and minimized vibrations to not lose your camera. Multiple Ultra-Swivel AND 360-degree rotational swivels. At Leader Motorcycle.
Published by Cyril Huze January 7th, 2015
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Published by Cyril Huze January 7th, 2015
in Editorial and Events.
In the 80’s, I have known Cabu – one of the cartoonists of Charlie Hebdo killed this morning in Paris by cowards. Freedom of speech must never surrender. Journalists don’t stand down to terror. Charlie Hebdo must live to defend the art of satire which has always been a force for liberty and against tyranny, dishonesty and stupidity.
Published by Cyril Huze January 7th, 2015
in Builders and Editorial.
1936 Coventry Eagle, part of the Art Bulman Collection. Coventry-Eagle was a British bicycle and motorcycle manufacturer experimenting with their 1st motorcycle in 1899. The model Flying 8 was probably the most iconic bike of its time and bore a resemblance to the contemporary Brough Superior. During the depression of the 1930s, the company concentrated on producing two-strokes. Production continued until the start of the Second World War in 1939. Photography by Doug Mitchell dougmitchel@yahoo.com
Published by Cyril Huze January 7th, 2015
in Editorial and Engines.
The carburetor is probably the most misunderstood mechanical part on a motorcycle. This article was written by John Glimmerveen and explains the internal workings of the carburetor to set the correct ratio of fuel and air for optimum engine performance.
All engines require a proper mixture of air and fuel for combustion. The carburetor controls the ratio of the fuel/air mixture entering the engine. This sounds simple enough, but there are many carburetor parts that, if not set properly, will at best cause the bike to run badly, or at worst keep it from running at all.
How It Works. Air enters the carburetor from the air intake and speeds up drastically due to the narrowing of the interior walls of the carburetor. This air is blowing perpendicular to the throttle slide, a valve controlled from the throttle cable. When the throttle is opened, the cable raises the throttle slide located inside the carburetor’s main body. As the slide rises, the fast moving air pulls the fuel up the main jet from the float chamber.
This works automatically because the fuel wants to travel from an area of high pressure (the float chamber) to an area of low pressure (the carburetor main body). The fuel mixes with air and heads into the engine. The amount of fuel that flows is dependent on the position and size of the needle valve (explained below), the size of the main jet, and the height level of the fuel in the float chamber. The fuel height in the float chamber is controlled by the floats. Adjusting these floats is explained at the following page. Continue reading ‘Understanding The Motorcycle Carburetor. Adjusting the Float Height.’
Published by Cyril Huze January 7th, 2015
in Builders and Editorial.
Harley-Davidson started operations in India in July 2010, ended up the year 2014 with a total of 8000 motorcycles. Currently, the company has 17 dealers in 14 cities. The 3rd Indian HOG Rally at India Bike Week to be held in February in the city of Goa will be the pretext for a 5th Anniversary celebration. Harley-Davidson India is a wholly owned subsidiary of Harley-Davidson, based in Gurgaon, Haryana, India. CEO is Anoop Prakash.
Published by Cyril Huze January 6th, 2015
in Accessories, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
The Flare™ Low for 2014-up Harley FLH models is the new addition to Klock Werks already released 6.5”, 8.5”, and 11.5” other available options. The factory fairing on the models 2014-up sits 1” higher than previous years, justifying for some riders the availability of a lower windshield.
Klock Werks Flare™ Windshields feature “hips” at the sides that re-route the wind away from you while adding downforce to the front-end of the motorcycle to improve stability vs. riding with the stock windshield. The flip at the top of the Flare™ redirects air back as clean, less turbulent air for rider and passenger. The Flare™ doesn’t just block or push the air, it redirects the wind to improve your ride.
The Flare Low is approx. 5” high. It is available in Black or Dark Smoke finish at Kustom Baggers or at your local Drag Specialties Dealer.
Published by Cyril Huze January 6th, 2015
in Editorial and Events.
During the 75th Sturgis Rally, the Buffalo Chip Thrill Show will include a dangerous attempt at a world-record motorcycle jump of 22 cars. A stunt that even the great Evel Knievel was never able to pull off. On September 1, 1972. his crew warned him that his bike – a Harley-Davidson XR-750 – would be unable to reach the speed it needed to clear the distance, and they were right. Knievel failed with a bounce landing on the safety ramp the crew built over the lineup’s final three cars. On July 4, 2001 another 22-car jump was attempted by a motorcycle daredevil who spent who also failed and almost died.
Thursday, Aug, 6, 2015 you can see what happens when motorcycle daredevil Doug Danger tempts fate by attempting this exact jump in the Buffalo Chip Amphitheater, using the very same bike that failed Knievel and ultimately lead to his defeat. There’s no telling what will happen during the Buffalo Chip’s Evel Knievel Thrill Show, but one thing is for sure: your heart will race, you will clench your teeth, but nothing will be able to pull your gaze from this historic attempt. Continue reading ‘Insane Motorcycle Stunt At The Buffalo Chip During The 75th Sturgis Rally. Evel Knievel And All Others Failed At It.’
Published by Cyril Huze January 6th, 2015
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
A 502-page study released this past December by Freedonia Market Research on worldwide demand for motorcycles is forecasting an expansion of 6% per year to over 132 million units in 2018, valued at $120 billion. Four major trends will drive growth through 2018:
1- An increasing number of households in industrializing countries will be able to afford motorcycles as personal incomes rise 2- Sales of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and other electric models are projected to rise sharply outside of China from what are currently very modest levels of demand 3- Motorcycle sales in a number of countries will be spurred by government programs aimed at reducing environmental pollution caused by automobiles 4- Market advances will accelerate in a number of important markets such as Brazil, Indonesia, Thailand, the US, and Vietnam. However, further gains will be restrained by slowing growth in China, the world’s leading market for motorcycles, because of the large number of motorcycles already in use there. Market gains will also be dampened due to substitution by consumers of light vehicles for motorcycles in China and other industrializing countries. Continue reading ‘World Motorcycles Market. Demand To Grow 6% Annually Through 2018.’
Published by Cyril Huze January 5th, 2015
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
