For Harley FL Models. This new solo seat with optional EZ Glide backrest system are made with solar-reflective leather and automotive-grade vinyl to reduce the surface temperature by as much as 25°F, feature a flexible urethane foam interior for maximum comfort, and are compatible with EZ Glide II™ backrests (sold separately). They come with two mounting nuts and a leather fender bib for a clean installation. Matching rear pillion pads are also available in two sizes. These seats are available in a range of styles for all 08-14 FLHT, FLHR, FLTR and FLHX models. Made in the U.S.A. Suggested retail price is $324.95 – $329.95. More info HERE.
For Victory Crossroads And Cross Country Models. This low-profile seats from Drag Specialties Seats™ create a superior riding position to keep you in the saddle for longer. Solar-reflective leather on the seating areas reduces surface temperature by as much as 25°F. The interior is filled with flexible urethane foam for maximum comfort. The ABS thermoformed bases are carpeted to protect your finish, and all mounting hardware is included. Seats include an EZ Glide I backrest that is removable in case you want more room for passengers. They are compatible with OEM sissy bars, but not with convertible pads. These seats are available in a range of styles and fit all Victory 10-14 Crossroads and Cross Country Models. Made in the U.S.A. Suggested retail price is $589.95 – $699.95. More info HERE.
Archive Page 123
Drag Specialties Seats For Harley FL And Victory Crossroad And Cross Country Models
Published by October 7th, 2014 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.Dave Perewitz Gives Responsibility Of His Shop To Daughter Jody. Now Focusing On Custom Painting.
Published by October 7th, 2014 in Editorial, Events and Painters.
Dave Perewitz, nicknamed “King of Flames”, is going back to his roots and is now focusing all his time and efforts on what he loves and does best, custom paint design. His shop Cycle Fab is now managed by his daughter Jody who will assume the majority of the day to day management and other duties. She is well known for her racing career with a successful Land Speed Record in Bonneville and other accomplishments. A new paint facility has been established for Dave Perewitz’s work, usually revolving around flame jobs, candies, pearls and other custom applications. Dave Perewitz. 508-697-3595.
2015 Zero Models Unveiled. All With Premium New Equipment.
Published by October 7th, 2014 in Builders and Events.
New motorcycles travel up to 185 miles in the city and over 100 miles on the highway. Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, announced its 2015 model line with premium new standard equipment including Showa suspension, Bosch anti-lock brake systems and Pirelli tires. The refinements are designed to transform the already exhilarating ride experience by offering incredibly smooth suspension, optimal braking responsiveness and unrivaled traction. To increase range, Zero introduced new battery cells with 10% greater capacity on the Zero S, Zero SR and Zero DS. When combined with the Power Tank accessory, this yields an industry leading range of up to 185 miles in the city, 94 miles on the highway at 70 mph or 115 miles at 55 mph.
“For 2015, we have further redefined the motorcycle experience by creating a lineup that delivers, quite possibly, the most seamless and pure ride of any motorcycle ever manufactured,” said Richard Walker, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “With no shifting, up to 106 ft-lbs of instant torque and a host of new technical improvements that offer premium comfort and control, we invite all consumers to go for a ride on these impressive new machines. The new lineup will arrive at North American dealerships in December and during late February for Europe.” Continue reading ‘2015 Zero Models Unveiled. All With Premium New Equipment.’
2014 AMD World Champion Of Bike Building. Krugger’s BMW K1600.
Published by October 6th, 2014 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
This feature was written a couple of days ago. Without knowing for sure that yesterday Sunday October 5th in Cologne, Germany Fred Krugger would be voted the winner of the “Freestyle Class” of the AMD World Championship Of Bike Building. It’s the second time that Krugger wins the championship, the first time in Sturgis in 2010. For one-off motorcycles, problem(s) solving is the name of the game. Some custom builders will not venture far from what they know by fear of failure, especially for a commissioned project by a retail client. Some will never touch any motorcycle from a brand that they don’t know very well. Some will not work for a manufacturer whose briefing include some constraints regarding motor, driveline, components or aesthetics.
Fred “Krugger” Bertrand will tell you that building a custom bike to only impress others is relatively easy . He belongs to a very small contingent of custom builders who challenge themselves into extremely complex tasks while still frightened by the tasks to accomplish. It’s not the first time that Krugger is called by a major motorcycle brand to create a concept motorcycle. And he works on each project as it is intended to go mass market, his absolute professional dream…
About 1 1/2 year ago I talked to Krugger. He was nervous but extremely excited at the idea of working for BMW Motorrad. Last September 25th, BMW eventually unveiled the Krugger’s BMW K1600 project featured here, dubbed NURB in reference to the very famous Nurburgring Race Track located northwest of Frankfurt, Germany. The BMW K1600 is the brand’s ultimate touring machine with a legendary in-line compact 6-cylinder 1,649 cc, 160 hp engine and a maximum torque of 129 lb/ft. A transversely installed engine delivering dynamic performance as well as refined running smoothness. Over 70% of the maximum torque is available from just 1500 rpm. For eceptional touring, yes, but also for Sport riding if you are in the mood.
The factory K1600 bike is an extremely sophisticated machine, featuring several drive modes, a very complex electronic system and a wiring loom (with no less than 7 computer chips) and even an adaptive headlight for safety during night riding. No way, BMW would let Krugger touch this motor and these electronics, and I doubt very much he would have want to… For the rest, he got complete freedom of expression under reserve – of course – that the Krugger branded custom version work as good or better than the original machine… Continue reading ‘2014 AMD World Champion Of Bike Building. Krugger’s BMW K1600.’
Harley-Davidson Three-Dimensional Machete Wheel And Sprocket.
Published by October 5th, 2014 in Customs, Driveline, Editorial and Wheels.
Slice through air and light with the new Machete Custom Wheels ($799.95 each) from Harley-Davidson®. Finished in either brilliant mirror-chrome or sinister black ice, this wheel features seven three-dimensional cutting-edge spokes that catch the light and are shaped to imply motion, even when the motorcycle is standing still.
Available in 21 or 16-inch fronts and a 16-inch rear to fit many Harley-Davidson Sportster® and Softail® motorcycles, these wheels can be paired with a matching Machete Billet Sprocket ($399.95). Also available in chrome or black ice. For more information, visit Harley Online Store.
These wheels have undergone hundreds of hours of real-world testing to meet the highest standards of performance and durability. Installation requires the separate purchase of a model-specific Wheel Installation Kit, sprocket hardware and brake rotor-specific hardware. It may also require separate purchase of model-specific tires to fit the new wheels. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details.
Ferrari Patents Motorcycle V-Twin Engine Design
Published by October 5th, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Engines.
Patent application submitted suggest that Ferrari may be considering producing a motorcycle, The patent covers the design of an “internal combustion engine having two cylinders, which are arranged in a ‘V’ configuration.” Ferrari has also filed a trademark application for the name ‘Cavallino’ (pony in Italian) for use on a vehicle without precision of type, car or motorcycle.
This interest for motorcycles may be correlated to Fiat Chrysler Automobile Group (FCA) CEO Sergio Marchionne’s intention to maximize the use of the Ferrari brand to benefit the development and growth of FCA. The Ferrari brand has strong international appeal and if a motorcycle were to be produced it would offer an alternative to Audi’s owned Ducati motorcycles.
Stolen 1954 Harley Hydra-Glide Returned After 42 years
Published by October 5th, 2014 in Editorial and Events.
This week, Customs and Border Protection Agents returned to Edgar Howard Johnson the motorcycle which was stolen in 1972 from his father, a police officer from North Carolina.
The 1954 FL Harley-Davidson Hydra-Glide motorcycle was intercepted last month at the Los Angeles/Long Beach seaport where it was about to be shipped to Australia.
“My dad would be tickled to get it back if he was still alive,” said Johnson, whose father passed away four years ago. “The Harley, worth an estimated $24,000 appeared to be in mint condition. It was green when stolen but was since painted bright yellow. It also has a “trumpet style horn” and a medallion on its front fender commemorating Harley-Davidson’s 50th anniversary.
The open road provides a pathway to the uncontrolled spirit, a state of being that is universally felt yet so challenging to capture through a medium. And it doesn’t matter the brand of motorcycle you are riding… Shot in Knolls, Utah near the Bonneville Salt Fats and in San Rafael Swell in Southern Utah, as well as some lonely highways and dirt roads between the two. Music by “Future Islands”
Directed by: Skylar Nielsen. Director of photography: Ian Rigby. Cinematography: Josh Fletcher Adventurers: Lance Clayton & Nelson Bruggeman Campers: Pat Fenelon & Corigan Kushma.
In business, the competition will bite you if you keep running. If you stand still, they will swallow you.
Semon Knudsen
A Bolt-On Custom Harley Sportster Forty Eight
Published by October 3rd, 2014 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Few can build, or have a pro-builder create a full one-off custom from the ground up. And for most, a custom using mostly bolt-on aftermarket parts is well enough to express their individualism. So, here is another example of what can be done if you want to give your Sportster a more sporty look and stance for a relatively modest budget.
First a Storz/Ceriani upside down front end, a pair of Chainsikle rear sets and new Ohlins shocks raised the rear by approximatively 1 1/2” (35mm) In this case, because of the front end change, the front fender had to be reworked for new mounts, these new ones fabricated with a tubular shape to reinforce the muscled out look provided by the Ceriani tubes. The original headlight was relocated lower via a custom mount on the lower fork clamp. Factory turn signals are now mounted to the forks and rear frame.
The Harley Sportster factory gauge is sticking out too much for the taste of many. You can replace it by a smaller and less tall offered by many custom vendors, or as it was done here, keep it but mounted lower on the bars. For a beefier look in the back, a new 5.5” wide wheel was laced keeping the Sportster 48 original hub, then wrapped with a 180/65/16 Avon Cobra tire. Of course, to fit the 7” wide new tire required a full re-spacing of the driveline. The license plate frame is custom made and powder coated.
Ending the catalog shopping list are: a D&D Bobcat-Carbon 2 into 1 exhaust, a Roland Sands Design air filter, “Black Ops” levers, grips and foot pegs, and a Daytona Twin Tech engine controller of easy retuning of the bike. A nice Sportster for every day ride, especially when the owner will eventually accept the idea of changing the seat… Sportster bolt-on work and paint by Ellaspede Australia (photography AJ Moller for Cyril Huze)
Nomad Seats By LePera For Harley Touring Motorcycles
Published by October 3rd, 2014 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.
This year, Le Pera celebrates its 40th anniversary, year after year meticulously handcrafting seats with the highest attention to details.
As example, this Nomad seat for 2008-up Harley touring bikes. While providing the wide footprint that riders request for long distance comfort, the Nomad features very clean lines giving any tourer a leaner appearance.
Available in smooth, diamond, pleats or distressed brown seating with black bands. Prices start at $441.00. You can order through your local dealer or directly to Le Pera Seats.
S&S Cycle IS Ending Its Relationship With The Crane Cams Brand. Now Selling The S&S HI-4N Ignition.
Published by October 3rd, 2014 in Editorial and Electrical.
Effective midnight December 31st 2014, S&S Cycle will have no relation with the Crane Cams brand.
But if you liked using the Crane CamsÆ HI-4N ignition, you will love the S&S HI-4N. Same great electronics, same great features. Just a different name.
For more information about the S&S HI-4N ignition and other former Crane Cams motorcycle products now available under the S&S brand, contact your local S&S Dealer.
Do you really know the story of the Chopper? In this new book, leading vintage motorcycle expert Paul d’Orléans, a.k.a. Vintagent, provides insight into the origins of the chopper, the start of the custom movement to its today’s renaissance, giving a shout-out to legendary builders and dispelling a few myths surrounding this icon of counterculture. With its well-informed texts and showcase of historical and contemporary photographs, this book finally gives the chopper the respectful attention it deserves. Believe or not, the real and full story of the Chopper movement has never been told, until now… You can pre-order this book with delivery in about 2 weeks (a wonderful Christmas gift…) Hardcover, 288 pages. $48.65. Order on Amazon at: The Chopper. The Real Story.
Zipper’s Performance is among the couple of US companies able to provide the best solution to all of your engine upgrade and rebuild needs. Your buddies on their new 103’s and 110’s kicking sand in your face? You don’t have to spring for a new bike to keep up, just breathe some new life into your TC88 or EV80! Zipper’s has spent 33 years developing packages that deliver promised performance in a single part number – no need to have to figure out fuel or ignition curves as their kits include pre-programmed components with curves that they have already worked out. Or, if you like to be the head chef in your kitchen, they can supply just the ingredients you need to create your own masterpiece. Every kit component sold by Zipper’s Performance is available individually. Continue reading ‘Winter Is Engine Upgrade Season’
Postcards From Germany Intermot Fair (October 1-5). The Wild, The Weird And The Ugly.
Published by October 2nd, 2014 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
UBM Buys Advanstar Communications, The Parent Company Of Dealernews , Dealer Expo And Of The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows,
Published by October 2nd, 2014 in Editorial and Events.
Advanstar Communications Inc. announced it will be acquired by UBM Plc for approximately US $972 million. The transaction is subject to approval by UBM shareholders and subject to regulatory and closing conditions, and is expected to close by year end. Advanstar is currently owned by an investor group that includes Anchorage Capital Group LLC, Veronis Suhler Stevenson, and funds managed by the Tradable Credit Group at Ares Management LP. Continue reading ‘UBM Buys Advanstar Communications, The Parent Company Of Dealernews , Dealer Expo And Of The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows,’
METZELER Launches New Range Of Vintage And Classic Tires At Intermot Cologne Motorcycle Show
Published by October 1st, 2014 in Editorial, Events and Wheels.
Yesterday, METZELER introduced the new SPORTEC™ Klassik tire at the International INTERMOT Show, which runs from October 1-5, in the city of Cologne, Germany. The SPORTEC™ Klassik is the new METZELER tire in the Classic segment for owners of motorcycles built since the 70s. In recent years we have witnessed a growing trend, the revival of classic motorcycles from years past. Motorcycles from the last 30 years of the 20th century come to life again thanks to restoration or customization, thus giving rise to the Vintage trend, already very popular in the world of design and clothing.
These motorcycles are often at a disadvantage because they are bound to older technology compared to more modern machines, which are equipped with cutting-edge safety systems and tires – and therefore they are not fully benefiting from the rapid tire developments of the last decade.
The tires of these machines have many diverse sizes which are now little used in new street and touring motorcycles, and for this reason they are often neglected in the design of new tires by tire manufacturers. The SPORTEC™ Klassik conception is inspired by the glorious ME1™ CompK, the first tire with “bias belted” (MBS) technology launched by METZELER in the mid-80s, which became a hit among sports bike owners during those years. Continue reading ‘METZELER Launches New Range Of Vintage And Classic Tires At Intermot Cologne Motorcycle Show’
Ducati Unveils The 2015 Scrambler. A 800 cc Retro Classic Motorcycle To Attract Young, New Riders And Women.
Published by October 1st, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
At Intermot in Germany, after months of teasing previews on social media and at locations around the world, Italian manufacturer Ducati unveiled Tuesday its new for 2015 Scrambler motorcycle, an affordable update on a retro-classic design aimed at a new generation of riders, that will also appeal to those who remember Ducati’s first motorcycle built for the U.S. market in 1962 and carrying the same Scrambler name.
The Scrambler is a light 800cc air-cooled twin cylinder-powered motorcycle built for the street or modest off-pavement enduro riding with a price around $8,600. It is light and agile, weighing 375 pounds dry, with wide handlebars for easy control and a comfortable seating position. It is built on a familiar-looking steel Trellis frame and features knobby Pirelli tires capable on both the street or on the trail. Design incorporates retro styling elements, such as a tear-drop shaped fuel tank with side logo panels. Continue reading ‘Ducati Unveils The 2015 Scrambler. A 800 cc Retro Classic Motorcycle To Attract Young, New Riders And Women.’
New Triple Tree 49 mm Wide Glide For Harley-Davidson Breakout Model
Published by October 1st, 2014 in Chassis, Controls, Customs and Editorial.
At Intermot, the International Motorcycle, Scooter and E-Bike Fair October 1-5, 2014 in Cologne, Rebuffini is going to unveil today this new massive but still elegant 49 mm wide glide triple tree conceived specifically for the Harley FXSB Breakout model. CNC machined billet aluminum, featuring stock rake, pre-arranged steering-lock like the stock triple tree, available in polished, black anodized, black contrast or chromed. Assembly hardware included. High class, high price… Rebuffini Italy.
Akrapovic Exhaust Soundtrack On European Victory Models
Published by September 30th, 2014 in Customs, Editorial, Events and Exhaust.
During the huge Intermot Fair in Cologne, Germany this week Oct 1st to 5th (205,000 visitors expected with 1,020 companies from 37 countries showing their products), Victory Europe is going to introduce Akrapovic exhaust systems designed, developed and manufactured exclusively for Victory Motorcycles in Europe. Akrapovic is very well respected company known for its performance exhaust and very distinct sound and will now redefine all Victory cruisers soundtrack.
Akrapovič’s new twin silencer Slip-On system has been tuned to deliver optimum performance and enhance the thundering American V-twin sound for the full range of Victory Cruisers sharing the well-established Freedom 106 (1731cc) motor. Akrapovič Slip-Ons fully satisfy European Community noise and emission standards, while offering Victory owners a torque increase of 4.2Nm (3.1 Ft Lbs.) and a significant weight saving of 4.3Kg (9.5 Lbs.) against the standard factory system. Continue reading ‘Akrapovic Exhaust Soundtrack On European Victory Models’
Bad Weather Forces Triumph To Postpone World Land Speed Record Attempt Until 2015
Published by September 30th, 2014 in Editorial.
During the past 2 weekends, more than 3 inches of rain accumulated on the Bonneville Salt Flats from storms. Not a suitable condition for a FIM World Land Speed Record attempt. The Triumph Castrol Rocket streamliner was scheduled to claim the title of ‘world’s fastest motorcycle’ but the pilot and crew will have to wait for year 2015.
“Of course we are disappointed, but the weather pattern and the track conditions are obviously beyond our control,” said Matt Sheahan, Chief Operating Officer for Triumph Motorcycles America. “Our team has made great progress in the past 13 months since first taking the Triumph Castrol Rocket to the Salt last August.
We now turn our efforts to making further refinements to the machine, and hope to get back on the Bonneville International Speedway in 2015.” Triumph will display the Triumph Castrol Rocket at the upcoming Barber Vintage Festival presented by Triumph Dealers of North America, October 10-12, at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.
Retail sales In the U.S. Of Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Estimated Up 3.7 % Compared To Year-Ago Quarter. According to a research note provided by Wells Fargo Securities analyst Tim Conder after he met with Harley-Davidson Motor Corp. management, dealer/consumer reception to all new models has been exceptional. Cannibalization worries of the Sportster by The Street likely overdone because the 2 models differ on price point, ride and engine type. To attract younger riders, Harley marketing is focusing on breaking the perception that they would need to spend $20K to ride a Harley.
Triumph Plans Of Manufacturing Motorcycles From The Ground Up In India And To Export From This Country. The company is planning to set up a manufacturing plant in Southern India. The manufacturing facility will build a Triumph global small capacity sport bike, which will have an engine capacity between 250-400cc. Like Harley-Davidson (with the Street model), Triumph will use India as a low cost manufacturing and exporting hub that will allow to price the bikes competitively and earn larger profits in this country and other countries.
Anti-Pollution Rules In Spain’s Capital Madrid Favor Motorcycles. No non-resident will be allowed in the center of the city as of the first day of 2015 but these restrictions do not apply to motorcycles, which are free to roam the center of Madrid. Still the exemption is only valid between 7am and 10 pm. Nice to see that the mayor of a big city understands that bikes are a solution in the urban clutter and not the problem. Supply vans and trucks are allowed in a restricted area between 10 am and 1 pm. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine Is The Official Moonshine Of Harley-Davidson. Do You Care?
Published by September 30th, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
Each public relation solicitation I receive, I wonder if you can be interested by the news sent to me. And when I got one from “Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine” announcing that the company is now the official moonshine of Harley-Davidson, I decided to publish, just to see your reactions. Why such a partnership? The given justification by the PR agent is “Both brands share common ideals of independence, adventure and a strong history of Americana, making the partnership a natural and exciting evolution.” If you care (?), there is a multi-year partnership punctuated by year-round events and limited edition co-branded Ole Smoky Moonshine offerings. Ole Smoky hard smoked blend, Harley-Davidson Road House Customs Charred Moonshine® debuted 2 weekends ago during the Milwaukee Bike Rally, and is available with a limited edition custom jar and label. Continue reading ‘Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine Is The Official Moonshine Of Harley-Davidson. Do You Care?’
Born To Burn Rubber Custom Harley Sportster
Published by September 29th, 2014 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Brothers and best friends Jarrod and Justin Del Prado from DP Customs are big fans of car and motorcycle racing, and when nothing is on tv schedule, they spend their relaxation time watching and re-watching road movies. It explains their unique building style, always borrowing visual elements and gimmicks found on the diverse machines of all those racing for the checkered flag or against the clock. Named “Two-Lane”, their latest creation, is loosely inspired by “Two-Lane Blacktop”, a 1971 movie featuring two men drag racing across the USA in a primer grey 55 Chevy.
Based on a 2003 Sporty 1200 cc for a client who gave the Bros all freedom custom builders may wish, “Two Lane” creates its own identity by the unusual choice of a pair of racing car wheels. In the front, a 18″ drag racing wheel from Radir and in the rear a 15″ from American Racing. The front wheel had to be machined to work with the Harley axle and bearings. A choice that required some machining work. The rear needed a custom flange and the Harley hub had to be welded in. The front tire is a Firestone tire, the rear a Hoosier drag tire. By the way, today Hoosier Racing Tire Corp. is still the largest race tire manufacturer in the world and all Hoosier race tires are proudly “Made in the USA” in Indiana. And it just happens that the Del Prado’s client is from this state… Continue reading ‘Born To Burn Rubber Custom Harley Sportster’
Harley-Davidson Voluntarily Recalls 2014 Motorcycles To Fix Clutches And Fuel Tanks
Published by September 28th, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Harley-Davidson is recalling more than 105,000 motorcycles from the 2014 model year because their clutches may fail, causing stopped bikes to creep forward and potentially crash. The company knows of 19 low-speed tip-over crashes tied to the problem, with three minor injuries reported.
Bikes named in that recall include the Electra Glide Ultra Classic and the CVO Road King. Harley-Davidson says dealers will rebuild affected clutch master cylinders for free.
The Milwaukee company also is recalling 1,384 motorcycles made earlier this year to test for possible fuel tank leaks. The models are the 2015 Street XG500 and XG750. Dealers also will test fuel tanks subject to that recall and replace them for free if any leak from under their caps. No injuries, accidents or fires have been tied to that problem.
Casual Wear From The 3 American Motorcycle Brands
Published by September 28th, 2014 in Editorial and Merchandise.
Harley-Davidson® Mens Black Leather Casual Shoes. Suitable for after riding. With leather upper, full lenght cushion sock lining, a rubber outsole in a vulcanized construction. Starting at $50 l(ow Roarke model) and $55 (high top Nathan model). Women’s sizing available.
Indian Ladies’ Heritage. Casual Pullover with fine details, perfect for under jacket comfort and a stylish look after riding. Fabric: 75% cotton, 25% polyester blend slub. Graphics: Embroidered logo on front; embroidered applique logo and Hendee text on back. (from S to XXXL) $54.99.
Victory Men’s Badge Attitude Hoodie. Heavy duty black zip-front hoodie with powerful Victory Motorcycle® branding on the left front, the back and the sleeve. There are two hand warmer pockets, a red-lined hood and a red hood drawstring. Fabric: 100% cotton club jersey, French terry back, 380 gsm 11.21 oz./yard; enzyme wash. Graphics: Skull patch on sleeve; embroidery on front and back. Sizes from S to XXL. $74.99.
