Published by Cyril Huze June 4th, 2014
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Don’t let increasingly stringent emissions laws and stronger enforcement stop you from installing a bigger engine in your Harley-Davidson® big twin or from building custom bikes. S&S Cycle has emissions compliant engines for both custom building, replacement and improvement. No more licensing hassles or costly emissions compliance testing. S&S has already done the testing, so you don’t have to.
S&S Cycle’s offering of emissions compliant engines varies depending on the regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over where the engine is to be sold and used. For example, in North America, S&S offers 50-state legal engines for replacement of stock engines in 1984-’98 chassis and both 49-State and 50-State legal packages for custom-built vehicles with 1984-’99 style chassis. S&S’ TÜV approved offering for the European Union covers 1984-’06 style chassis. Continue reading ‘Challenge The Road. Not The Law. S&S Offers Street Legal Engines For The US And Europe.’
Published by Cyril Huze June 4th, 2014
in Editorial.
Can our highways, avenues, bike paths, sidewalks and parking lots be turned into a source of renewable energy to power the country at much lower cost than today? Programmable LED’s would also send information to drivers, while eliminating the need for painted road markers, while built-in heat sources would make snowy and icy roads a thing of the past. The project already received funding from federal highway authorities for a pilot project. Watch the movie and share your thoughts.
Published by Cyril Huze June 4th, 2014
in Editorial.
A blonde city girl named Sue marries a Colorado rancher. One morning, on his way out to check on the cows, the rancher says to Sue, “The insemination man is coming over to impregnate one of our cows today. I drove a nail into the 2 by 4 just above where the cow’s stall is in the barn. Please show him where the cow is when he gets here, OK?”
The rancher leaves for the field, and after a while the artificial insemination man arrives and knocks on the front door. “I came to inseminate the cow,” he says. Sue takes him down to the barn. They walk along the row of cows, and when Sue sees the nail, she tells him, “This is the one right here.” Continue reading ‘Joke Of The Week’
Published by Cyril Huze June 3rd, 2014
in Books and Editorial.
You all love Steve McQueen’s on screen motorcycle stunts and wild car chases. But how much do you know about his passion for motoring, about his own machines and the races to which he participated?
There is much more to discover beyond the 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 fastback he drove in Bullitt and the Triumph motorcycle of The Great Escape.
McQueen’s Machines opens with a foreword written by Steve’s son Chad and is filled with photos from the family archives to show his collection of cars and motorcycles and explain his deep passion for collecting, driving and racing.
A beautiful book about a certifiable motorhead to please all gearheads. At time of publication, the edition is temporarily out of print but you can reserve your copy at McQueen’s Machines. (Father’s day is June 15…)
Published by Cyril Huze June 3rd, 2014
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Long and sleek, these Carbon Tech floorboards for Victory models are a collaboration between Precision Billet with Paul Tracy’s Black Label Baggers.
They measure 21″ x 6.5″ x .75″, CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and available in black powder coat orchrome finish.
They are hand inlaid with genuine carbon biber substrate for high tech style and durability. On top, the cross hatch machine patter provides excellent grip for a secure ride.
Pair with brackets starting at MSRP $479.00. At Precision Billet Co.
Published by Cyril Huze June 3rd, 2014
in Editorial and Videos.
It happened 2 during the Memorial Day weekend. KW Parrish was riding at the Beaverun private motor complex in Pennsylvania. One of the two riders in front of him topples off his bike after hitting another rider. A split second later the fallen racer’s bike launches at Parrish , hitting him with full force into his helmet and bike. He walked away fine, a little dizzy, confused, bumped and bruised…
Published by Cyril Huze June 3rd, 2014
in Editorial.
Not new, but for all the youngsters and those who still don’t know why…
Top Ten Reasons Why Harley Riders Don’t Wave Back
10. Afraid it will invalidate warranty.
9. Leather and studs make it too heavy to raise arm.
8. Refuse to wave to anyone whose bike is already paid for.
7. Afraid to let go of handlebars because they might vibrate off.
6. Rushing wind would blow scabs off the new tattoos.
5. Angry because just took out second mortgage to pay luxury tax on new Harley.
4. Just discovered the fine print in owner’s manual and realized H-D is partially owned by Honda.
3. Can’t tell if other riders are waving or just reaching to cover their ears like everyone else.
2. Remembers the last time a Harley rider waved back, he impaled his hand on spiked helmet.
1. They’re too tired from spending hours polishing all that chrome to lift their arms.
Top Ten Reasons Why Gold Wing Riders Don’t Wave Back
10. Wasn’t sure whether other rider was waving or making an obscene gesture.
9. Afraid might get frostbite if hand is removed from heated grip.
8. Has arthritis and the past 400 miles have made it difficult to raise arm.
7. Reflection from etched windshield momentarily blinded him.
6. The espresso machine just finished.
5. Was actually asleep when other rider waved.
4. Was in a three-way conference call with stockbroker and accessories dealer.
3. Was distracted by odd shaped blip on radar screen.
2. Was simultaneously adjusting the air suspension, seat height, programmable CD player, seat temperature and satellite navigation system.
1. Couldn’t find the “auto wave back” button on dashboard. Continue reading ‘Top 10 Reasons For Not Waving To Other Bikers’
Published by Cyril Huze June 2nd, 2014
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
The Sportster Forty-Eight® was born from Harley-Davidson looking like an urban brawler with the right attributes to be easily turned into a modern Cafe Racer. And if it’s the direction you are looking for, here is a good example of what you can achieve for a reasonable customizing budget without compromising your Harley factory warranty. Since the birth of the Cafe Racer, the style has evolved, taking influences not only from the original British Rocker sub-culture but also from the American Greaser scene…and from the Harley-Davidson XLCR.
On this new creation by official Harley-Davidson dealer Thunderbike, you can regret that the fuel tank was not modified, elongated, with recessed panels to allow the rider to squeeze it between his knees. But you find other elements faithful to the Cafe Racer signature: narrow handlebars that allow to “tuck in” to reduce wind resistance and tighter steering control , mid-controls (factory unit comes with forward mounts), half racing style fairing, humped solo seat on shortened rear fender, shorty exhaust, etc. Continue reading ‘Café Racer Forty-Eight’
You can blast through the night with the new Daymaker™ LED Headlamp (P/N 67700144 Chrome, P/N 67700145 black; $399.95) from Harley-Davidson® Now available in a 5.75-inch diameter to fit many Sportster®, Dyna® and Softail® models, this LED headlamp features two “D” shaped optical lenses, a single low-beam lens, and three high-beam lenses. Continue reading ‘Banish The Night. New Harley-Davidson Daymaker LED Headlamp For Softail, Dyna And Sportster Models.’
Published by Cyril Huze June 1st, 2014
in Builders and Editorial.
Very rare Mercury scooter built by British manufacturer between 1956 and 1958
Published by Cyril Huze May 31st, 2014
in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Co-designed by Zipper’s and Wiseco Engineering during the development of Zipper’s Muscle 110 kit, these powerful forged pistons are stated as having superior features over the competition. These pistons are forged from 2618 material and are designed to be strong, durable and light in weight – everything you need in a high performance piston!
The dome design more closely conforms to the CVO 110 chamber shape for a tighter quench area, which improves combustion and power. The slipper design keeps the overall weight lean and mean. Two compression heights are available, allowing expanded camshaft compatibility and power goals over current offerings. Three oversizes extend the useful life of the 110” cylinders.
Two special coatings are applied to these pistons. The skirts feature bonded ArmorGlide™ coating, a dry film lubricant applied to the piston skirt. This coating helps reduce friction, improves performance, and will also help quiet the piston in the cylinder bore. This coating is permanently applied, and is not a break-in coating; it is on the piston for the life of the part. ArmorPlating™ is applied to the piston crown, ring grooves, and piston pin bore. Continue reading ‘New Zipper’s Performance High Compression 110” CVO Piston Kits’
Published by Cyril Huze May 31st, 2014
in Editorial.
A special American freedom celebration has been planned to honor our nation’s veterans and raise funds for organizations benefiting veterans and their families at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip in 2014. The Buffalo Chip’s 23rd Annual Freedom Celebration will be held on Thursday, Aug. 7 and include a full day of powerful presentations, inspiring performances and moving exhibits. For the first time, festivities will also include a special charity ride, sponsored by the City of Spearfish. The Freedom Celebration Ride departs from Main Street, Spearfish and concludes with a celebration at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip®. The ride, led by retired Navy SEAL, LT Jason Redman, will lead participants on a route across the scenic high plains and foothills north of the Black Hills. Upon arrival at the Buffalo Chip, riders will be welcomed in by an impressive display of 800 flags, Battlefield Cross, Memorial Wall and a host of meaningful events planned to honor those currently serving, those who have served and those who have fallen.
Opening ceremonies on Spearfish Main Street will feature a number of dignitaries and honorees including Brigitte Gabriel, a Lebanese American journalist, author and activist. Gabriel is one of the world’s leading terrorism experts, serving as a regular guest analyst on the Fox News Channel, CNN and MSNBC, along with various radio stations across America. She is the author of two New York Times Best Sellers and was named one of the top 50 most prominent speakers in America. Continue reading ’23rd Annual Sturgis Buffalo Chip Freedom Celebration Adds Ride, Welcomes Air Force Band and Dignitaries’
Published by Cyril Huze May 30th, 2014
in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
The purpose of a steering damper is to dampen oscillations in the front fork assembly, otherwise known as “head shake”, when the front wheel is deflected from its normal track by bumps, potholes, frame flex, tire reaction, etc.
Storz Performance offers complete steering damper kits for most Harley DYNA, FXR, V-Rod, Sportster and XR1200 models. They include all necessary mounting hardware and easy to follow installation instructions.
The racing quality steering damper features a 16 position adjustment for damping resistance and is rebuildable. Beautifully machined CNC mounting brackets are included. More info at 805-641-9540 or at Storz Performance.
Published by Cyril Huze May 30th, 2014
in Editorial and Events.
After years of controversy, of complaints and of litigation, the Hoka Hey Challenge (TM) sent a press release informing potential participants to the 2014 edition that “The Medicine Show Land Trust, promoters of the toughest motorcycle ride on Earth, are waiving each rider’s $1,000 entry fee.”
Using the justification of other activities, Jim “Red Cloud” Durham doesn’t appear as the official organizer of this event and gave the responsibility of Director of Operations to his wife Beth Durham. In previous years, prizes ranging from $10,000 to $500,000 were promised to riders who crossed first the finish line, qualifying the event as an illegal race on public roads. Prize money was cancelled during the 2013 edition.
In all its website pages, the Hoka Hey organization repeats over and over that the Challenge is not (no more?) a race. “Our intent is to be the baddest motorcycle challenge known to man and to leave a positive impact on mankind”…
The press release states that after the conclusion of the 2014 event, the “Medicine Show Land Trust” will hand over the reins of the Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge to the newly formed, board-run, riders operated Hoka Hey LLC during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally at a date to be announced. This year’s Challenge is limited to riders of American motorcycles and will be a 7,500 mile journey scheduled to start July 20 from Key West, Florida To Homer, Alaska. It will be interesting to see how many riders are still interested to participate in this event. Just very few, I guess, since most riders who want to cross the US on their motorcycle can do it on their own, at their pace, picking their dates, route and destination. No need to hear or to scream the “Hoka Hey Warrior Call” (to follow)
Published by Cyril Huze May 30th, 2014
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
For the pleasure of your eyes. And it could only come from an Italian designer…
Just a large circle reminiscent of of the classic unicycles of the end of the 1800’s. 2 horns to hold on. An epicycloid transmission. Carbon, steel and glass fiber.
The top in fitness design with the best ergonomics and ultimate simplicity. A show-off piece, too.
Great shape has a price. The Ciclotte Exercise Bike can be yours for $12,000.
Or how to accomplish a fast and cheap complete makeover of your Harley 5” 3/4 headlight while still keeping the factory lamp, the trim ring and without having to mess up with your electrical system.
These Vitamin 5 3/4” Headlight Buckets (named as such because they look like citrus press) are a direct fit to replace the Harley stock ones. Just pop your original wiring, bulb, lens and trim ring.
Made of cast aluminum, available in four finishes: Raw, Semi-Polished, Black and Black Cut. Great prices! From $99 to 134. To order, call on my behalf 818-268-3789 or visit EMD Parts USA .
Published by Cyril Huze May 29th, 2014
in Editorial, Engines and Videos.
This is the second episode of the S&S Cycle Proven Performance video series “Don’t Settle For Stock.” In the first episode you witnessed life in the “Stockyard”, dull, monotonous, and stifling, with a repressive regime a man who has chosen not to settle…In this second video, he finds out that he is not alone, and he begins to put his choice into action. With the help of other like-minded independent individuals, will he be able to break free, or will he be discovered by the Stock Corps and its P.I.G., the enforcers of the four tenets of conformity?
Published by Cyril Huze May 29th, 2014
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Navigant Research, a market research company, forecasts worldwide sales of e-motorcycles will grow from 1.2 million vehicles annually in 2014 to 1.4 million in 2023, while sales of e-scooters will grow from 4.1 million to 4.6 million. The market for power two-wheel (PTW) vehicles, which includes electric motorcycles (e-motorcycles) and electric scooters (e-scooters), has grown slowly in recent years. Although sales volumes in the next couple of years are likely to remain low, due to continued high costs for components and low levels of demand, this market is poised for growth after 2015, as consumer markets continue to expand, new competitors enter the market, and suppliers increase capabilities.
“Consumers are seeking refuge from higher gasoline prices, electric two-wheel vehicles are growing more mature, and cities are becoming increasingly congested with traffic,” says John Gartner, research director with Navigant Research. “All of these factors will contribute to growing demand for power two-wheel vehicles – particularly high-powered e-motorcycles.” Continue reading ‘Sales Of Electric Motorcycles and Scooters Would Reach 6 Million Annually by 2023’
Published by Cyril Huze May 28th, 2014
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Not the typical motorcycle you expect from the Bavarian manufacturer. And a very good surprise regarding styling. Motorcycling is much more than just perfect function, and this BMW Concept Roadstar is very exciting to look at. It’s a typical BMW roadster with a powerful 1.170 cc 2-cylinder boxer engine putting out 125 hp. It features a single-sided swing arm with cardan drive and a light tubular space frame. It interprets these classic elements in the most state-of-the-art, dynamic form. The compact proportions with low front and high rear form a wedge-shaped silhouette around it, making the bike look very fast even when stationary. Congrats to the BMW design department. But no word if it be arriving anytime soon at a dealer near you.
This new kit includes self-adhesive bezels and trim rings to surround the gauges, the front speakers and the Boom!™ Box infotainment faceplate. A gloss-black fascia completes the stylish look. The entire kit installs in a few minutes time.
The RUSHMORE Inner fairing Dash Trim Kit (P/N 61400199; $139.95) is designed specifically to fit 2014 Electra Glide®, Street Glide® and Trike motorcycle models (except CVO™ models). For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s website.
Published by Cyril Huze May 28th, 2014
in Videos.
You are sane enough not do it. But how does it feel? Watch this suicidally highway recklessness. Shot in Hong Kong at 160 mph (260+ km/h). Cops could not catch up and are still looking for him.
Published by Cyril Huze May 28th, 2014
in Editorial and Events.
The main stage at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip will take a pounding on Saturday, Aug. 2 when The Cult lets loose before a sea of fans. The band has been described as heavy metal revivalists with a touch of pseudo-mysticism inspired by The Doors, and this heavy-handed beat is guaranteed to bring fans to their feet.
“The Cult bombards their fans with a rock beat that strikes a solid chord with Buffalo Chip fans,” says Sturgis Buffalo Chip President, Rod Woodruff. “These guys have built a dedicated following over the years. We’re thrilled they’re going to be part of the party this year.” Continue reading ‘Deviants Rejoice. The Cult Will Perform At The 2014 Sturgis Buffalo Chip.’
Published by Cyril Huze May 27th, 2014
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
In this small country of 5.3 million people located in the western part of Scandinavia in Northern Europe, because of latitude, from May to July, the sun never completely descends beneath the horizon in a big part of his territory. Conversely, from late November to late January, the sun never rises above the horizon in the north, and daylight hours are very short in the rest of the country. So, Norway Bike Fest celebrated this last Saturday is a long, long day of entertainment to take advantage of because in winter…well, now you know. The event is held in Trondheim, Norway’s 2nd biggest city (after Oslo), home of the 2nd best selling Harley-Davidson dealer in the country, plus a few independent shops building some high-quality customs. Bike Fest is organized by Morten Andersont editor of “Biker Journalen” the only Norwegian language dedicated to custom motorcycles since 1987. This edition was attended by 3000 bikers with on the menu, like in the US, vendors, bands and a bike show. A few postcards from H. Roesler who was on location.
Published by Cyril Huze May 27th, 2014
in Accessories, Builders and Editorial.
A motorcycle battery never gets a day off. The service experts at Harley-Davidson® point out that even when a motorcycle is parked the battery discharges continuously in small internal loads called “self-discharge.” Self-discharge speeds up drastically as the temperature rises – for example in a hot garage in the summer – and accessories like alarm systems will further increase the rate of discharge.
Which is why a motorcycle, that may often be parked for some time between rides, is especially prone to battery damage from deep self-discharge, even during the riding season. The best way to prevent premature battery death, according to Harley-Davidson, is by keeping a parked motorcycle plugged into a maintenance-type battery charger like a Harley-Davidson Battery Tender. Harley states that unlike a standard battery charger, Harley-Davidson Battery Charger products feature internal circuitry that charges a motorcycle battery at the proper rate and then changes modes to protect the battery from over-charging.
The Harley-Davidson 800m A Waterproof Battery Tender (P/N 66000004, $49.95) features a three-step charging system that constantly monitors battery voltage to bring the battery up to full charge and switches to float mode to maintain the charge over extended periods. Its waterproof case protects the charger from damp floors and outdoor elements, and the charger is reverse-polarity protected and spark-proof, even when the leads touch. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Advice On Avoiding Battery Abuse’
Published by Cyril Huze May 27th, 2014
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Published by Cyril Huze May 26th, 2014
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
