Heavy rain perturbed most of the Austrian event, the Harley parade around Lake Faak and Custom Chrome Europe bike show. Scott Sjovall of S&S Cycles (last picture after the jump) checked out for the 1st time the European Bike Week. Based on the Custom Chrome Europe booth, he visited the area around and judged the CCE Ride-In Bikeshow and rode around on the S&S equipped “Custom Crawler” Sportster by Benno’s Custom Road. A few postcards. (photography @H.Roesler for Cyril Huze) Continue reading ‘2014 European Bike Week. Faak See, Austria.’
Archive Page 126
2014 European Bike Week. Faak See, Austria.
Published by September 9th, 2014 in Editorial and Events.The Midual Type 1. Custom Luxury For Only 35 Owners.
Published by September 8th, 2014 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
The story of Oliver Midy, designer and engineer of the Midual Type 1, is the one of a child acquainted very young with motorcycles, who become obsessed with them, who at the age of 14 succeeds in accomplishing the restoration of a gorgeous Monet-Goyon and who spent all his adult life until now dreaming then creating a luxury motorcycle featuring nothing less than a proprietary engine inside a very unique all-aluminum unibody chassis.
The Midual Type 1 world premiered at the recent California Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance where it surprised both connoisseurs and the international motorcycle media community for its originality and the amount of work – we are talking about many years of research and development, of trials and errors and of testing – involved in its creation.
The first big surprise is of course the motor unique architecture, an in-house developed liquid cooled, electronic injection Flat-Twin of 1036 cc (63.2 cubic inch) pumping out 106 hp at maximum engine 8000 rpm. Compression ration 12:1, maximum torque of 74lbs/ft at 5300 rpm. The second one is is the unseen before double-wall aluminum alloy monocoque that acts as the body and fuel tank, a work of art that required more than 1000 hours of development, says Oliver Midy.
And originality doesn’t stop there. Under all angles you can look at it, the Midual Type 1 features very unique parts and details, the most visible being the dash with a very original layout of the analog gauges inspired by the 30’s to 50’s european classic cars, and all the leather details and inserts. Continue reading ‘The Midual Type 1. Custom Luxury For Only 35 Owners.’
Inflated. AirHawk Seats By Danny Gray
Published by September 7th, 2014 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.
The technology, already used medically for over 35 years, to distribute your weight equally over an entire seating area, is integrated in Danny Gray’s AiHawk seat series. The comfort seat system reduces tissue pressure and noticeably improve comfort by minimizing those hot spots during long rides.
A pump and bleeder valve are integrated to each seat, letting you easily adjust the amount of pressure while seated, allowing you to adapt your seating position to changes in the road surface, temperature, and overall time in the saddle. With all Danny Gray seats you can also choose your stitch design, thread color, and even add inlay materials to compliment your bike, style, and personality. Danny Gray Seats.
Facebook Scam. Win A Harley Davidson Campaign Is A Hoax.
Published by September 7th, 2014 in Editorial.
The newest Facebook scam claims that buyers can win a free Harley Davidson, just by liking and commenting on a page that features a picture of a Road King. The campaign is being run by the Facebook page HarleySweepstakes, a page that is not associated with Harley Davidson or any of its subsidiaries. The contest is likely part of a “Like Farming” campaign. These campaigns are setup to gather a large number of fans quickly. After thousands or even hundreds of thousands of fans are gathers, the page owner then targets fans with other spam and scam campaigns.
An example of the scam reads:
“We are giving away a FREE Harley Davidson Road King On October 31 2014
Hurry, entry closes September 30th! Lucky Winners Will Be Announced On October 31 2014
Step 1) Like this Page
Step 2) Comment which color you want. (Black OR Red)
Step 3) Share on your wall
Winners will be Chosen & Announced On October 31 2014.
Good Luck!” Continue reading ‘Facebook Scam. Win A Harley Davidson Campaign Is A Hoax.’
New Elegant Auxiliary Lightning For Harley Street Glide Models
Published by September 6th, 2014 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
This Auxiliary Lightning Kit (P/N 67800367 Chrome, P/N 67800366 Gloss Black; $429.95) provides extra lighting output and includes new mounting brackets that flow with Batwing-Shaped fairings.
Designed for the 2014-later Harley-Davidson Street Glide® and Street Glide® Special models. The elegant cantilever brackets serve as stylized mounting points for the lamp and turn signal housings, and eliminate the cross brace and flat side supports of traditional auxiliary lamps.
Available in brilliant chrome or gloss black finish, the kit includes passing lamp housings, retaining rings, mounting brackets, bullet turn signals, an auxiliary lamp switch and hardware. Four-inch halogen or Daymaker™ LED auxiliary lamp bulbs are sold separately
“Surplus wealth is a sacred trust which its possessor is bound to administer in his lifetime for the good of the community.” Andrew Carnegie.
Cannonball Endurance Run. Racers Briefing And Green Flag (Part 3)
Published by September 5th, 2014 in Editorial and Events.
Yesterday evening, all Cannonball riders and supporting crews had a social gathering, then received a briefing regarding the Endurance Run rules, the way to read their paper maps (GPS is forbidden) and the security measures they all must follow. Participants get one point given for each mile ridden during each stage. By the way, let me mention that if you are encouraged to follow the progression of each rider from the side of the road and come to meet with them and to look at their bikes at each stage arrival and departure, the organization requests that you don’t even try to ride with/close to the Cannonballers. Their machines don’t have the handling and brakes of your modern bikes and you could create very dangerous situations for them. Thank you in advance.
This morning Friday September 5th, all participants gathered at 8 a.m. on the sands front of the Daytona Beach Resort for a group picture, then each of the 3 classes of pre-1937 motorcycles got the green flag from Cannonball founder and organizer Lonnie Isam Jr.. First leg of the endurance run ends today around 4 p.m. in Lake City, Florida.
After the jump, more pictures and the complete 2014 Cannonball route. Continue reading ‘Cannonball Endurance Run. Racers Briefing And Green Flag (Part 3)’
New Two Brothers Racing V-Twin Comp-S Exhaust System For Harley Sportster & Dyna
Published by September 5th, 2014 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.
With nearly three decades of championship winning performance behind them, Two Brothers Racing is taking their products to the V-Twin market with the introduction of the all-new Comp Series.
The Comp-S system provides increased horsepower and torque (dyno charts are on their website), with swept-up muffler for ground clearance allowing riders to maintain higher speeds. Pipes are are Mandrel bent stainless steel tubing and all TIG welding is done by hand. Accepts 02 sensor. The system works with both forward and mid foot controls. Available in brush finish or ceramic black with or without optional carbon fiber tips. Other exhaust systems available for Softail, Twin Cams, Touring bikes. Two Brothers Racing.
Two good ol’ boys in a Tennessee trailer park were sitting around talking one afternoon over a cold beer after getting off work at the Local Nissan plant.
After a while the 1st guy says to the 2nd, “If’ I was to sneak over to your trailer Saturday and make love to your wife while you are off hunting and she got pregnant and had a baby, would that make us kin?”
The 2nd guy crooked his head sideways for a minute, scratched his head, and squinted his eyes thinking real hard about the question. Finally, he says, “Well, I don’t know about kin, but it would make us even!”
In 15 hours at time of this posting, (tomorrow Friday 5th at 8 a.m. ET), 115 riders on their pre-1937 antique motorcycles are going to start their machines for a more than 5000-mile endurance run from Daytona Beach, Florida to Tacoma, Washington. Right now, some participants are still on the parking lot of the Daytona Beach Resort tuning up their bikes while others are making road tests in the the city or doing a few spins around track of the famous International Speedway.
For all those who requested the rules of this 3rd Cannonball Endurance Run, I list them below. After the jump, see the list of all participants, their motorcycle models and bike numbers for you to identify them on the road and at each stage arrival and departure.
Rules of the Ride: These machines are old and most are very rare. A lot of these early bikes would not be on the road today were it not for new parts. In a lot of cases only the motor survived to be resurrected into its former self. As long as the engine in the machine is original it is eligible to run for the prize. Any reproduction chassis or parts should be as they were originally.
Brakes. We are all aware that 100 years ago, brakes were not that good. If in any way riders can improve their bike braking ability, to the point of even adding a front brake, then it is highly recommended. Carburetors and Mags. The original carbs, whether modified or updated some, need to be used, with spares allowed. Each bike to use it’s intended ignition source, spares allowed. The Tires. The tires are very important. The argument for or against the safety of clincher tires has long been a debate. If a rider don’t want to run clincher rims and tires, then he doesn’t have to. Spares allowed. The lights. Each motorcycle must have a headlight, taillight, and brake light. Continue reading ‘Cannonball Endurance Run (Part 2)’
From Daytona Beach. Cannonball Endurance Run Preparations. (Part 1)
Published by September 4th, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Tomorrow morning September 5th at 8.30 a.m., 105 riders on their pre-1937 motorcycles participating to the 2014 Cannonball Run are going to leave the sands of Daytona Beach in Florida (front of the Daytona Beach Resort) ready to ride 3936 miles, crossing 12 states in 17 days for Tacoma, Washington where they will arrive on September 21st.
The group will include several members of the prior 2 Cannonball runs as well as many first time riders from around the world. A week into travel, riders will have a day of rest, repairs, and festivities in the hospitable Midwestern town of Junction City, Kansas on September 12.
Included in the impressive lineup of antique bikes will be some lesser-known marques such a 1923 Ner-a-car, a Sokol 1000, and a Sunbeam m9. The group will include Harley-Davidsons, Indians, Hendersons, BMWs, Moto Guzzis, Moto Freras, as well as a Rudge and a Brough Superior. This will truly be a sight to behold as the brave entourage makes its way across America on motorcycles rarely seen outside of museums.
First, let me emphasize that the continent-wide event is not a race but will be a timed test of both the rider’s endurance abilities and the roadworthiness of their respective machines as they navigate non-interstate roads across the nation. 105 antique motorcycles will be put to the ultimate test, reviving a tradition as old as the motorcycles themselves: proving the capabilities of the machines and confirming the pioneering spirit the USA was built upon. Continue reading ‘From Daytona Beach. Cannonball Endurance Run Preparations. (Part 1)’
You may have heard that Harley-Davidson® no longer offers the factory remanufacturing program for 1984 and later Big Wins. But S&S Rebuild Program is still going strong.
S&S has been offering this service for years and its program offers a lot of extras the Harley factory didn’t offer. S&S Rebuild Program Features:
• You get the same engine back – keep your original VIN
• Fast turn-around 10 working days from delivery to S&S
• Engines are rebuilt with Premium Viola V-Twin® service parts
• Rebuild to stock specs or install an S&S performance kit
• Keep your existing performance upgrade parts if serviceable
• 30 day labor and 1 year parts warranty
The S&S Rebuild Program is available through S&S Dealers.
Engines are rebuilt at the S&S® Service & Speed Center® in LaCrosse, WI. Contact your S&S Customer Service Representative or go to S&S Rebuild Program for more information.
Old School Triumph Bobber. Built By Halls Custom Vintage. Photographed By Frank J, Bott.
Published by September 4th, 2014 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Tomorrow Friday September 5, 2014 at 11 am, there is a grand opening & ribbon cutting of Frank Bott’s new visual production studio at the Utah Industrial Depot, 225 Iron Street Building 637 North in Tooele, Utah.
To get acquainted with me and my readers and to illustrate his photographic work, Bott sent me great pictures of this 1970 Triumph TR6 rebuilt by British bikes expert in the United States Halls Custom Vintage (Jake & Rob Hall)
By the way, if you live in Utah, after the new photo studio ribbon cutting there will be a free for owners live production shoot of cars and motorcycles. Everyone is invited.
For Those Who Dream, Ride And Sleep Indian Motorcycle
Published by September 4th, 2014 in Customs, Editorial and Merchandise.
FiledCandy, a UK company specializing in outdoor products created to add stylish flair to camping has signed a deal with Indian Motorcycle to offer to produce an Indian branded 2-person “Explorer Tent” that can be neatly fitted inside into a compact carry case easily transported on the back of your bike.
The rustic design has been created to reflect Indian® Motorcycle’s rich American heritage and one that can withstand the extreme conditions the open road can bring. Thanks to a developed printing technology, the design is UV fade resistant, the material 100% waterproof and fire retardant.
Each tent is made in England to the high specifications of an expedition tent. Find the Indian Motorcycle® 2-person tent at worldwide Indian® Dealers or online at Field Candy or Indian Motorcycle. MSRP $695.99 USD ($779.99 Canada). Accessory Part # 2863891
Progressive Suspension High Performance Piggyback Shocks Now Also Available For the Harley V-Rod Chassis
Published by September 3rd, 2014 in Customs, Editorial and Suspension.
Progressive Suspension is extended its race inspired 970 Piggyback Reservoir Shocks applications already available for the Harley Dyna and Sportster to the V-Rod chassis. For those requiring a suspension for bikes doing much more than weekend coffee runs, the hand built in the USA, 970 Series shocks combine a high pressure gas monotube design with deflective disc damping routed through two unique circuits and adjustable for compression damping via an easily accessible knob. Continue reading ‘Progressive Suspension High Performance Piggyback Shocks Now Also Available For the Harley V-Rod Chassis’
The New Lightning LS-218 Becomes World’s Fastest Production Motorcycle. Gas Or Electric.
Published by September 3rd, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
After 6 years of research and development of E2W’s (electric 2 wheel motorcycles), Lightning Motors Corp. succeeds in designing and producing a Sport Bike sure to change the mind of all those doubting that electric motorcycles can be extremely performant. The company, after setting several speed records and winning many road races, released the specifications of the Lightning LS-218 claiming to be now the world’s fastest production motorcycle, gas or electric. Lightning is now taking reservations with prices starting at $38,888 (3 options: 12, 15 or 20 KW battery pack)
100 Miles. Distance the LS-218 can travel per charge at highway speed (12 KW battery pack). 168 FT-LBS. Amount of torque the electric motor can produce. 200 HP. Amount of horsepower the electric motor can produce. 218 MPH. Top speed with high speed gear and fairing (15 KW battery pack) 10,500 RPM. Number of rotations the electric motor can produce per minute.
Is The American Dream Still Alive? Let’s Find Out While Riding Across The Country.
Published by September 3rd, 2014 in Editorial, Events and Videos.
During these last years you heard it many times from your friends, you co-workers, the media. “The American Dream is dead”, “My future is bleak”, “America’s time is over”, “It’s so dangerous out there”, etc. James Marshall, a native from the Uk, and photographer Todd Williams, an American, grew weary of the constant whining and negative attitude of Americans and of media proclaiming that the American Dream is dying or already a concept from the past. So, they decided to ride across the country, east to west, from New York City to Los Angeles, to learn more about the American Dream, to report about what it means to those they will meet and demonstrating that many Americans still believe in it and make it happen in their personal and professional lives.
This is “The American Dream Project”, a docu-series they will produce during the 5000-mile on their motorcycles, a 2015 Indian Chief and Indian Scout provided by Polaris. They will have a budget of only $250 for food and shelter. No hotels, no motels, no fancy pillows, no 3-course meals. They will stay with, and depend on, the Americans they meet. They must work for their keep! During the digging, the mending, the farming, the baking, the sweating, and the fretting, they will learn what the American Dream means to each individual. In conclusion, the viewer will have an intimate look into what makes up this beautiful country. True reporting, true reality TV. Continue reading ‘Is The American Dream Still Alive? Let’s Find Out While Riding Across The Country.’
Bonneville Speed Trials. Hiro Koiso Racing Set 2 New Land Speed Records.
Published by September 3rd, 2014 in Editorial.
Difficult conditions this year on the Bonneville Salts. Strong wind and rain the week before the event and some more during the Speed Trials, meaning racers working tirelessly to dial their bikes and patiently waiting and waiting during hours to find the right window of time for a land speed record tentative. Among those who succeeded (I will announce others), Hiro Koiso setting two new records on a 2006 FXD based Harley-Davidson, one at 211.080 mph (339.700km/h) in the 3000APS-PBG Class, and one at 211.0325 mph* (339.623km/h) in the 3000APS-PBF class. The bike was powered by JIMS135 Twin-Cam engine modified by T-Man Performance fit with ProCharger. Producing over 300HP at the rear wheel. Hiro Koiso did also a one-way record pass at 221.000mph (355.665km/h) Hiro Koiso Racing. (Photography Taka Masui for Cyril Huze)
Under water mother nature inspired this fish scale design grips made of injection molded Kraylon rubber. Good grip density. Available for 1” and 7/8” handlebars. Available in white, midnight blue, white and orange. At the price of $18.95 for a pair, you can change the color of your grips every other month. Order online at Lowbrow Customs.
Can You See Me Now? Harley-Davidson Riding Gear With Enhanced Reflectivity.
Published by September 2nd, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.More than ever, motorcyclists want to be seen more clearly in low-light and nighttime riding conditions. Harley-Davidson is working in partnership with 3M™ to incorporate their most advanced reflective material into this season’s new riding gear. Using “retroreflection” technology and design, 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material returns a higher percentage of light to the original light source, allowing the rider to be seen from greater distances. The result is enhanced rider visibility up to 500 feet. It’s a key feature in these 3 new items:
The new men’s Bright High Tail Colorblocked Hi-Vis Rain Suit (P/N 98337-15VM, starting at $195)The jacket and pants are constructed from 100 percent nylon ripstop and polyester mesh lining, with 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material for premium enhanced rider visibility up to 500 feet. The jacket features a hood that can fold into the neck flap; elastic cuffs; and a bungee cord and toggle hem. The pants offer heat-resistant textile shields on the lower inner legs; elastic waist; removable suspenders; and side zippers. A packable storage bag is included for easy transport on a motorcycle. The rain suit is available in S – 5XL sizes at most H-D dealerships and at H-D Store.
The new women’s Skull Illumination Riding Jacket (P/N 98089-15VW, starting at $295) from the Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® line combines enhanced reflectivity and innovative features without compromising style or comfort. Ample use of 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material in the piping, sleeves, panels and graphics deliver up to 500 feet of enhanced rider visibility in low-light and nighttime conditions. Two-way zippered wraparound vents offer custom airflow management, while buckle waist tabs and a bungee cord toggle waist provide additional adjustability. It also features pockets at the elbows and shoulders that accept accessory body armor for increased protection. It’s available at most H-D dealerships and at H-D Store in sizes XS – 3W. Continue reading ‘Can You See Me Now? Harley-Davidson Riding Gear With Enhanced Reflectivity.’
You asked me. So, I list below the features offered by the Harley-Davidson Genuine Rewards Visa Card and let you decide if it’s the right card for you. You get points for each dollar you spend with your card. This Visa (V) card is especially for Harley-Davidson (HOG) fans, as you will earn additional points for each H-D purchase you make with your card, as well as on restaurant, gas, lodging and bar purchases, which is a good deal if you like biking around often.
There is no pre-set spending limit on this card, and it will be decided once you apply for this card and are approved. No annual fee, if you are eligible for the Harley-Davidson Signature card. Otherwise, you will be considered for the Harley-Davidson High Performance Visa card, which comes with no annual fee (or $29), based on your credit score when you open your account. Receive a $10 Harley Chrome cash certificate when you are accepted for this card. This $10 cash certificate is valid for up to 180 days. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Rewards Visa Card. Worth It?’
Custom Moto Guzzi V7 Stone By Venier Customs
Published by September 1st, 2014 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
It’s quite unusual for a professional Custom Builder to bring a brand new bike straight from the dealer show floor to the shop for a full redo, old school style. Why not if it’s a custom order from a client who desires the quality and reliability of a new powertrain but will never be satisfied by the look of a factory bike. The donor bike is a 2013 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone 750 cc turned into a Scrambler taking for inspiration the custom “Guzzi Tractor V75” that builder Stefano Venier already built the previous year.
Venier’s New York client 1st request was that the bike remains comfortable while riding with a passenger. It explains why the seat is longer than usual, extended by 2”. His second was to give his custom Guzzi a meaner look, a task accomplished using knobby Continental dual sport tires and fitting the front end with a black LSL small headlight. Continue reading ‘Custom Moto Guzzi V7 Stone By Venier Customs’
Erik Buell Racing. Creating Small And Specialized Motorcycles For The India Market. To Distribute Exclusively Scooters And Small Motorcycles Built In Indian.
Published by August 31st, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
What was the intention of New-Dehli, India based Hero-Motocorp when the company bought 49% of Erik Buell Racing (EBR) in 2011 for $25 million? As reported at the time to build a 70,000 sq.ft facility in East Troy, Wisconsin and help Erik Buell Racing produce more efficiently its sport bikes, like the newest model, the 1190SX, for sale at $16,995. But EBR is doing much more than this for Hero-Motocorp. Selling consulting projects, including an engineer concept for a hybrid scooter with top speed of 62 mph, for a diesel work bike built to haul heavy loads and other models that Hero could market in India, taking advantage of a fast growing middle class.
In addition, during Summer 2015, Erik Buell Racing will become the sole and exclusive distributor in North America of several Hero motorcycle models, all low-priced entry-level bikes, a scooter, a light weight sport bike, city motorcycles in different cc’s, and more. The objective, as Harley-Davidson does it with the 2 Street models and Polaris with the Indian Scout, is to acquire young and new riders to sell to them later higher-end most expensive motorcycles. Continue reading ‘Erik Buell Racing. Creating Small And Specialized Motorcycles For The India Market. To Distribute Exclusively Scooters And Small Motorcycles Built In Indian.’
Class Action Lawsuit Alleges Harley CVO Limited Motorcycles Leak Engine Coolant.
Published by August 30th, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Harley-Davidson Inc. was hit Thursday August 28, 2014 with a putative class action in Illinois federal court, accusing the company of breaching a 24-month, unlimited-mileage written warranty by not repairing an engine defect in certain motorcycle models a buyer says causes the coolant to leak constantly.
The suit alleges the motor of the 2014 Rushmore FLHTKSE CVO Limited motorcycles have a design defect that affects the performance of its engine and associated coolant systems. “CVO Limited owners and lessors have been damaged because they possess a motorcycle with a design defect which cannot be repaired as required under “Harley-Davidson’s 24 month, unlimited mileage written warranty,” the complaint said.
Lead plaintiff Robert Okon says he purchased a new 2014 CVO Limited motorcycle from a dealership in Bloomington, Illinois, in September that came with the 24-month warranty, covering parts including the engine and cooling systems. But just a couple of weeks after purchasing the motorcycle, coolant began to leak from in and around the engine and coolant system, the complaint says. Continue reading ‘Class Action Lawsuit Alleges Harley CVO Limited Motorcycles Leak Engine Coolant.’
New Indian Motorcycle Apparel
Published by August 30th, 2014 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.New model year motorcycle models are always followed by new genuine brand apparel. In the new collection, 1 sweat shirt for men and 1 for ladies, that I find quite stylish for those who want to show the tribe they belong to.
Men Munro Zip Thru. Multi-season comfort featuring hand warmer pockets, Indian Motorcycle® branding, and graphics that celebrate Burt Munro’s World’s Fastest Indian. Fabric: 70% cotton, 30% polyester fleece back. Graphics: Embroidered text and applique logo on front, large distressed print with applique logo on back; woven patch on right sleeve; patch on left sleeve
Ladies Zip up. Comfortable cotton/poly construction with a flattering cut. Shoulder/sleeve stripes and bold Indian Motorcycle® branding. Fabric: 75% cotton, 25% polyester blend. Graphics: Embroidered Indian Motorcycle® logo on left front, embroidered and applique Circle War Bonnet logo on back. Additional Features: Two zip-closure hand warmer pockets; contrasting two-color stripes across shoulders and down the sleeves; snap collar closure.
