The tenacious men and women risking everything to get a world land speed record are a great source of inspiration for all of us. Because I know that you love to watch videos of LSR attempts, just out of the editing room, I publish the latest one shot last August during the BUB Speed Trials. In it, Shunji Yokokawa who traveled from Japan with a crew of only 2 people races for the 1st time on the Salt Flats. More challenging that what he imagined… Produced by Vita Brevis Films with the beautiful photography of Skylar Nielsen..
Archive Page 161
World Land Speed Record Attempt By Shunji Yokokawa
Published by October 16th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Videos.Report On The State Of the US Motorcycle, Bike And Parts Industry Market.
Published by October 16th, 2013 in Builders and Editorial.
IBISWorld, a trusted independent source of market research, published an updated report on the US Motorcycle, Bike & Parts Manufacturing market. First, let’s mention that the subject of the research consists of businesses that manufacture motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, bicycles or tricycles. It also includes businesses that manufacture equipment and parts for these vehicles. This industry has slowed over the five years to 2013 with revenue declining at an annualized rate of 0.9% to $6.7 billion.
The industry is highly influenced by the prosperity of US consumers; when customers have little disposable income and a negative outlook on the state of the economy, the industry suffers. As such, the recession caused steep declines in industry revenue as consumers held back on discretionary purchases. Revenue declined 21.4% in 2009, indicative of falling motorcycle demand in the United States, and in the same year, major player Harley-Davidson reported a 10.7% decline in sales. Although the industry has since reversed its decline, motorcycle and bicycle manufacturers face a sluggish revenue increase of 0.3% in 2013. Continue reading ‘Report On The State Of the US Motorcycle, Bike And Parts Industry Market.’
Sturgis Buffalo Chip Featured In Several Upcoming TV Shows
Published by October 16th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
A wide array of television programs will feature the Legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip® in episodes to air in the coming months. The world-class concerts, crazy contests, daring stunts, and unique culture of the Sturgis campground’s Motorcycle and Music Festival have been featured in dozens of cable television programs throughout the years and will again in the upcoming weeks.
“The phenomenon of the Sturgis Rally and the diversity of the biker lifestyle is captivating for all audiences, not just bikers,” says Rod Woodruff, president of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. “These television programs give the world a look at this fascinating culture that’s been unique to the Buffalo Chip for over thirty years.” The following programs will feature Sturgis Rally footage from the Buffalo Chip
“Top Gear” will wrap up its fourth season on History Channel later this month with an episode filmed at the Buffalo Chip. During this finale, hosts Tanner Foust, Adam Ferrara and Rutledge Wood each start their cross-country journeys on a scooter and must pass a series of challenges in order to upgrade to more Sturgis Rally appropriate rides. Once in Sturgis, they must transport Sturgis Buffalo Chip headlining act, Sweet Cyanide, to the Legendary Wolfman Jack stage. Knowing this, the hosts with the least impressive bikes make a last ditch effort to transform their transportation into something that will fit in at the Sturgis campground. Tune in to History Oct. 22 at 9 p.m. ET to see who wins this amusing challenge. Continue reading ‘Sturgis Buffalo Chip Featured In Several Upcoming TV Shows’
Harley-Davidson Offers A Kit To Pump The 2014 Ultra Limited To The CVO Motorcycle Specifications Twin-Cooled Engine Performance
Published by October 15th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
The new Screamin’ Eagle® 110 Cubic Inch Stage 1 Kit (P/N 92500020, $1,998.95) street-legal kit upgrades a 2014 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited to the full CVO motorcycle performance of the Twin-Cooled Twin Cam 110 engine (the kit does not fit the 2014 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic.)
It boosts the displacement of the Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ engine to 110 cubic inches and bundles the proven components of the CVO™ exclusive Screamin’ Eagle Twin-Cooled™ Twin Cam 110″ powertrain. The Screamin’ Eagle® cylinder heads and forged piston combination offers a 9.3:1 compression ratio for easy starting. “Screamin’ Eagle 110” cylinder head medallions make it clear it’s an Ultra with extra.
The kit includes all required gaskets (except primary cover and transmission interface gasket) and hardware to complete the installation. Installation requires case boring, the separate purchase of an Automatic Compression Release Wiring Harness, and ECM recalibration.
The separate purchase of cam spacers and professional installation is recommended. This kit fits the 50-state 2014 Ultra Limited model. MSRP: 1998.95. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s Website
2013 Biketoberfest. Boot Hill Saloon 40th Anniversary Party With Jay Allen
Published by October 15th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
The Legendary Daytona Boot Hill Saloon, one of the most famous biker bars, located on Main Street in Daytona Beach, FL. will celebrate its 40th Anniversary from October 17 to 20, and with a special party on Saturday 19th at 9 p.m.
Chief Entertainer Officer Jay Allen will emcee the event, first honoring those who serve our country with the S&S Cycle Circle of Honor followed by a performance of one of the best bands, “Highway to Hell”. See you there.
Pope Francis Auctioning His Harley-Davidson Gift
Published by October 15th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Last June, during Harley-Davidson 110th Anniversary celebration in Rome, the Milwaukee company gave Pope Francis a brand new Harley. Of course, not expecting the the Pope would ride it around St Peter’s Square. Just doing a superb marketing coup, getting worldwide free media publicity around the world worth millions of dollars. Now this Harley is on the auction block to raise money for an Hotel For The Homeless in Rome. Serious money may be given to own a Harley-Davidson previously owned and never ridden by the Pope.
Daytona Biketoberfest. Jasmine Cain’s Traveling Tattoo Company At The Broken Spoke Saloon.
Published by October 15th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
This marks the 4th year of their commitment with the Broken Spoke Saloon, but the 1st time in Daytona for Biketoberfest. Jasmine Cain’s Traveling Tattoo Company is working with some of the biggest names in tattooing and brings tattoo quality and cleanliness to many major motorcycle events around the country.
Rock singer Jasmine Cain said ” We took a tattoo artist on the road with our band in 2010 and basically set up shop wherever we were performing. I learned so much about the art of tattooing and learned the importance and details of keeping a sterile and clean environment where people could feel comfortable that they were getting a top notch tattoo in a clean location.” Continue reading ‘Daytona Biketoberfest. Jasmine Cain’s Traveling Tattoo Company At The Broken Spoke Saloon.’
A little bit more than 2 months ago Polaris unveiled in Sturgis the new Indian Motorcycle lineup, the Indian Chief Classic starting at $18,999, the Indian Chief Vintage at $20,999 and the Indian Chieftain at $22,999. The media, including myself, have been unanimous in stating that this time, Polaris got it right with the Indian brand. If most were expecting the Chief Classic and Vintage based on Indian’s heritage, we were all surprised by the Chieftain bagger with its bold design and power windshield on a fork-mounted fairing.
A good marketing approach for 2 reasons: 1- Baggers represent one of the fastest growing segments in the heavyweight motorcycles category, 2- Indian never had a bagger in its lineup and by producing one, Polaris shows to the motorcycle world that, while respecting Indian’s past, the company is able to bring forward thinking technology to its new Indian models.
Polaris has very significant capital, financially, in terms of engineering experience and of manufacturing facility setup. Owning one of the two companies with the strongest international brand equity (yes, Harley is the other one), what damage can Indian do to the competition?
But first, what is the potential for cannibalization of Victory by Indian? Recently Steve Menneto, Vice President of Polaris Motorcycles, disclosed that third party consultants were hired to research this possibility. Their answer? A low-digit possible cannibalization. So, the fight is not internally, but mainly with Harley-Davidson although there is no hope, short term, that Indian will dethrone the Milwaukee company whose brand loyalty is also the company’s biggest strength. And even if Harley would fail to innovate (a low probability), its brand loyalty would save it for several years.
Today, Harley-Davidson holds a commanding lead in the U.S. heavyweight motorcycle market with an estimated 55% market share and primary competitors in that segment having an average market share of just 5%. Still, Polaris Industries hopes that the introduction of the 3 Indian models will create enough momentum for a full-year motorcycle sales growth of 15%-20% and for a market share (including Victory models) of 10% by the end of 2015, resulting in $750 million in annual sales over the next five-to-seven years. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle Report Card’
Exposed! Harley-Davidson’s Lost Photographs 1915-1916 Fall Exhibit. 2 More Discovered.
Published by October 13th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
I was contacted by the Harley-Davidson Museum to share with you 2 of the most recent pictures that will be featured in the Fall exhibit “Exposed! Harley-Davidson Lost Photographs 1915-1916” The photos were taken using some of the most daring and innovative photographic techniques of the time, and were thought to be lost for nearly 100 years until they were discovered recently in storage at the Milwaukee County Historical Society. You can read more about Exposed!, and other exciting fall events at the Harley-Davidson Museum. These pictures and others are available for purchase at Harley-Davidson Images where they can be reproduced on a variety of media. Pictures courtesy h-d museum to Cyril Huze.
2013 Daytona Biketoberfest Bike Shows
Published by October 13th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Willie’s Chopper Time. On October 17, 2013. Same venue in Ormond Beach on Willie’s Tropical Tattoo Shop parking lot for custom choppers’ judgment day. As I always mentioned, the show is more a Happening and Meet Place than a traditional bike show. Backyard builder creations are only half of the event. The other part are people and friends you meet there, their story telling about bikes and whatever. In need of a tattoo? Reserve your spot at 386-672-1888. Chopper Time starts at 11 am and for the beginners the address is 825 South Yonge Street (US 1) in Ormond Beach, FL Tropical Tattoo.
Boardwalk Classic Bike Show. The 24th edition will be held on Friday, October 18 on the Daytona Beach Boardwalk (located just north of the Daytona Beach Pier). This event is free to the public. Fifty-seven trophies will be awarded in twenty classes, and the grand prize is $500.00 cash for Best of Show. Pre-registration is $20.00. Send check or money order to Boardwalk Classic, Box 265201, Daytona Beach, FL 32126, or sign up at the Mardi Gras Arcade on the Boardwalk prior to the day of the event. On-site registration is $25.00, 8 am to 11 am. Trophies awarded at 4 pm. More info, call Bill at 386=871-0398.
Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show. At the Daytona Lagoon, just north of the Daytona Convention Center. All contestants must line up next to the curb on Ora street between 7:30 and 8:30 am Saturday October 19, 2013. You will receive your show card number, free stuff and get in position for the show. You will have time to clean your bike before the judging which starts at 10:00 am. The trophies will be given out around 5:00 pm. Pre-register in one of the 19 classes for $35 at Rat’s Hole Registration.
American International Motorcycle Expo Offers Free Mobile Application
Published by October 13th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group has announced that the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) will feature a free mobile app, a first for powersports events in the United States. AIMExpo Connect offers a powerful search engine, planning tools and interactive mapping making it easy for show participants, professionals and bikers to research companies, discover products, navigate the show floor and stay up to date on all show related news and events.
The app’s ‘My Show’ feature will enable visitors to organize their days at the event. “You can keep track of booths you’ve visited and want to visit, keep an agenda of show features and appointments you’d like to be reminded of, and take notes associated with specific exhibitors,” said Kerry Graeber, Marketing Director Marketplace Events Motorcycle Group.
In addition to downloading directly from the AIMExpo Mobile Website users may also access AIMExpo Connect on the iTunes Apple Store and Google play and Blackberry. The inaugural AIMExpo intends to revolutionize the Powersports industry as North America’s first combined consumer, trade and media event. It will be held on October 16-20, 2013 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.
Postcards From The Swiss Performance International Motorshow
Published by October 12th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Events.
In the German-speaking portion of Switzerland, the city of Luzern (Lucerne) is this weekend October 12-13 the epicenter of the European custom scene for both cars and motorcycles exhibited at the Swiss Performance International Motorshow. Although Switzerland doesn’t belong to the European Union, an independent status creating some red tape for exhibitors and builders transporting their ware, cars and bikes through the Swiss borders, promoter Ruedi Steck and partners are able to organize a very successful show in terms of participation of the main oem manufacturers, of builders and number of visitors. The reasons lie in the fact that Swiss people have a passion for everything automotive with the country being the base of builders producing some of the most high end custom machines in the world. Outside the US, Switzerland is also the country where Harley-Davidson has the largest market share of locally registered heavyweight motorcycles, an amazing 20 percent! Yesterday and this morning october 12th (opening of the show), correspondent “motographer” Horst Roesler shot a few of the bikes already setup to compete in the bike competition.
Continue reading ‘Postcards From The Swiss Performance International Motorshow’
Pure Evel. American Legend. Premiering Monday October 14 On Discovery.
Published by October 12th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
A new documentary about Eviel Knievel attempting to figure out what made him do what he did. In less than a decade, he took motorcycle jumping from its sideshow origins to unthinkable heights of popularity that still resonate today – while breaking nearly every bone in the process. Knievel redefined what it meant to be an American daredevil. He is reported to have described himself as “the last gladiator in the new Rome.”
Born Robert Craig Knievel in the mining town of Butte, Montana, Evel Knievel was lauded worldwide for his daring feats. He is the Guinness World Record Holder for the most broken bones – over 433 fractures received in over 20 crashes throughout his career. Continue reading ‘Pure Evel. American Legend. Premiering Monday October 14 On Discovery.’
Ruby, the luxurious brand of helmets designed by Jerome Coste, offers animal print helmets, in and out. Only for those who want to show their wild (animal) side. And of course, such a fashion statement has a price, A big one… Ruby Helmets.
Ural Unveils The Gaucho Rambler Sidecar. Pendleton Blanket And Outdoor Kit Included.
Published by October 11th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Russian-owned IMZ-Ural is always looking for new themes to propose limited edition of its sidecar models. Welcome the Ural Gaucho Rambler, a nod to the legacy of the old west, of Cowboys and Indians. Painted in Pacific Blue, upholstered in saddlebag “sunburnt” colored canvas. Accessories include a rolled “Journey West” woolen blanket from Pendleton, the company famous for its Native American inspired designs, and an outdoor cook kit complete with coffee pot, mugs, plates and a skillet… This 3-wheeler is an on-demand two-wheel drive ready to challenge all rugged terrains you may encounter. Only 50 units will be produced at the MSRP of $14,350.
Spectro Answers Your New Questions Regarding Lubrification
Published by October 11th, 2013 in Editorial and Engines.
Motorcycle oils are specifically designed for motorcycle engines. The challenging lubrication requirements of motorcycles get some of you confused. Spectro Lubricants answers a couple of your new questions.
Question. At what oil operating temperature will your Heavy Duty Platinum 20w50 synthetic oil start breaking down?
Answer. Spectro HD Platinum 20w50 won’t start to break down until at least 300º – F, we recommend oil operating temperatures between 180º F and 270º F for longest engine and oil life.
Question. Can I use your Spectro Platinum 10w60 in my Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic Electra Glide motorcycle?
Answer. Our first choice would be Spectro’s HD 20w50, however under some circumstances a 10w60 may serve as a better lubricant for the engine. Under conditions of extreme cold, a 10w60 would offer better starting performance, faster oil pressure and in the case of high heat more film strength.
Question. Is it a good idea to go from FULL synthetic to SEMI synthetic? I use Amsoil full synthetic. My mechanic (and very good friend) says he recommends Spectro Golden 4 semi-synthetic. I trust him but, could you give me a reason/or reasons why he may be right? He has used Spectro Golden 4 semi-synthetic for years and he highly recommends it in my bike. Is it a good idea? Continue reading ‘Spectro Answers Your New Questions Regarding Lubrification’
Jody Perewitz Enters The Bonneville 201 MPH Club
Published by October 11th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Prior to the Bonneville BUB Speed Trials in August, the EAM J’Witz Team pilot Jody Perewitz had already achieved a pair of passes at the speed of 202 mph at the Maine Loring Speed event. In Bonneville, out of her last 11 runs, 9 were over 200 mph, with one at 199.99 mph. This year, her best passes were 207 & 208 mph, getting her a 10th land speed record and an entry in the Bonneville 201 mph Club. She also received the SheEmoto Award, which is awarded to the woman who embodies the spirit of land speed racing. To follow the Team, go to the J’Witz Facebook Page.
Trask Performance Bro Bars For Touring Harleys
Published by October 10th, 2013 in Controls and Customs.
Trask Bro Bar are for Harley-Davidson Street Glide, Electra Glide, Ultra Classic, & any Batwing Style fairing motorcycles. Bend degree was chosen to make these custom bars offer more adjustment versus the inner fairing. Made of .120 wall tubing, these Tig welded bars are dimpled and pre drilled for internal wiring and also setup for FBW (Fly By Wire) They come in 14″ and 16″ heights with a 1.25″ outside diameter, in black powder coat or chrome. MSRP $449.95. At Trask Performance
Not built to wow the judges at the Bike Show. Even not to impress your friends. Just a nice Dyna Lowrider with many custom touches for your own pleasure, an every day ride, freeze, rain or shine. Steve Carr from Samson V-Twin (formerly from Lightning Rod Motorcycles) takes carburated Dyna Lowriders (2001-2003) with low mileage to give them a full makeover for a package price of $13,495, bike included.
It includes 21×3.5″ front and 18×4.5 rear rims, Michelin tires, 12″ Ape Hanger handlebars, 3-degree triple tree for a total of 35 degrees of rake. 2″ lowered suspension front and rear, custom paint, customized rear fender, solo seat, polished brake rotors, Carburetor upgrade, S&S breather upgrade. Matching Avon pegs/grips/shifter. Custom exhaust. Custom levers. Custom headlight. Custom taillight. Tag bracket combo. Custom handlebar clamp with indicator lights (LED). All new cables/brake lines and more. Engine, transmission, and frame are kept in stock condition for reliability, insurance, financing and easy resale. Samson V-Twin. 334-997-4906.
Motorcycle Exhibit Documents The New Wave Of Women Who Ride
Published by October 10th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.On September 12, 2013, under the headline “Women On Motorcycles”, I featured the photographic work of Lanakila MacNaughton, a Portland based young photographer and motorcyclist. Through her lens (Hasselblad CM), her mission is to reveal the beautiful women that live to ride, present female riders from all different communities, riding backgrounds, and styles, and maybe help them to connect with other female bikers. Lanakila MacNaughton latest project is “The Women’s Motorcycle Exhibition” a traveling show whose next date is December 13, 2013 at the Riverside Art Museum 3425 MissionInn Ave, Riverside, CA 92501 (admission is $5.00)
Norton Motorcycles Into Canada, Heading Soon For The US. First delivery of the Norton Commando model were made in Canada 2 weeks ago. Dan Van Epps, CEO of Norton America, has stated that in the U.S “final specifications and model details were hashed out in preparation for the upcoming production of U.S. Commando 961 models.” The U.S. models will include many product, material and engineering changes to ensure a robust, reliable bike that delivers the true British Roadster experience. Those will be some of the first motorcycles produced out of Norton’s UK new Hastings House manufacturing facility, which the company moved into in September.
The Global Tire market To Grow At 5% Annual Rate For The Period 2014-2015. Motorcycles To Be Key Driver. According to the report, the increasing demand for motorcycles positively influences the demand for tires and hence leads to the growth of the Global Tire market. The demand for motorcycles comes from developing and under-developed countries where the penetration rate of cars is low. Also, it is expected that the adoption of tubeless tires in the Global Motorcycle market will increase and will have a positive impact on the Global Tire market. Further, the report also discusses that the increased cost of raw material and commodity products is one of the major challenges in the Global Tire market. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Lighting Systems For Harley Road Glide
Published by October 9th, 2013 in Chassis, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Derik Jones is a Road Glide enthusiast and proves it again by launching a new line of “Hellacious” styling lightning systems conceived for this specific Harley-Davidson model. They all replace the existing stock assembly without requiring the removal of the outer fairing. In this new line, the “Predator” that you can install in less than one hour and sold either in gloss black or primed ready for paint.
Features include:
– Hella® Premium 90mm projector lamps (Bi-Halogen or Bi-Zenon HID)
– CCFL Halo Rings (Angel Eyes)
– Plug and play wiring
– Mounting plate and hardware
– Dramatic trim/styling
Available directly from Hell’s Foundry or via Drag Specialties dealers worldwide. Aditional info at Hell’s Foundry or 866.999.355, international: 1.810.229.4300
1975 Harley-Davidson Shovelhead with Brian, photographed by Frank Bott
Baker Drivetrain Offers A One-Week Turnaround Transmission Rebuild And Update Program
Published by October 9th, 2013 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
Your transmission is stock Harley or Big Dog or Baker out of warranty. Maybe your transmission is starting to drip oil or you are missing 1 or 2 gears. You want your tranny to be fixed right and fast. Who better than BAKER, the Drivetrain Authority to do it? How fast? What about 1 week or less? At what price? What about $50 per hour plus the cost of any necessary parts). Job done by who? Repaired or upgraded by the best in the business, right in the BAKER headquarter facilities in Michigan.
You can send BAKER your non-working stock transmission for a full diagnosis and replacement of broken parts, or even your old and tired stock transmission so they can replace the internals with an upgraded BAKER gearset of your choosing – and all in just a week’s time!. Talk to your sales and tech guy today about their Rapid Rebuild Program for more details. Just call (877) 640-2004 for any further questions. BAKER Drivetrain.
Lehman Trikes Announces The Trinity LLS Trike For Harley-Davidson® FLH® models
Published by October 9th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
The revived Lehman Trikes from Spearfish, South Dakota (Craig L. Arrojo, President), launched The Trinity LLS for FLH Harley-Davidson models.
The trike features an independent suspension for a preeminent three-wheel experience for riders and couples. The Dual H-Arm suspension provides the proper geometry for consistent handling and precise control.
An optional “Adjustable Lean Control” (ALC) toggle switch, conveniently located on the fairing, allows the rider to choose their desired level of riding performance from firm in corners to soft on rough roads for the ultimate in riding comfort and enjoyment. Continue reading ‘Lehman Trikes Announces The Trinity LLS Trike For Harley-Davidson® FLH® models’
Indian Motorcycle Releases Fall Collection Of Riding Gear And Casual Apparel
Published by October 8th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company just announced its new fall 2013 collection of motorcycle riding products, casual apparel lines and gift items for fans of Indian Motorcycle and motorcycle enthusiasts for the upcoming holiday season. Indian states that each riding product has been carefully designed and developed to meet the high expectation of a modern day motorcyclist including comfort and safety features.
New for the season, Indian Motorcycle introduces the V-Twin Fit. More generous fitting in the arms, chest and waist to give riding jackets added comfort. Men’s sizes range from S to 5XL while ladies products run from S to 3XL with the addition of 3 additional plus sizes. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle Releases Fall Collection Of Riding Gear And Casual Apparel’
