Cyril Huze Post

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Are You Overpaying Your Motorcycle Insurance?

Published by Cyril Huze October 8th, 2013 in Editorial.

Thanks to many websites, comparison of automobile insurance rates is easy. Much more difficult for motorcycle premiums and what they really cover. The Auto Pros USA Company has developed its average motorcycle insurance comparison database online. This database covering domestic and foreign brands now features hundreds of different providers for insurance able to offer rates information direct to bikers. Each quote that is requested by motorcycle owners is displayed online to allow simple comparisons of multiple insurers at the same time. Each motorcycle owner has the option to proceed with a policy purchase direct from national and local insurers with an online presence.

“We’ve developed a simple solution to introduce motorcycle riders to insurers without the need for entering data that is considered sensitive during the quotes process,” a source for the Auto Pros company said.

The unique search criteria that is entered into the company database for comparison purposes offers the foundation for each price quote. Each rider who requires insurance enters a zip code where they expect the bike to be used most often. Continue reading ‘Are You Overpaying Your Motorcycle Insurance?’

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All-New Series “Orange County Choppers” Premiering On CMT November 16.

Published by Cyril Huze October 8th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Paul Teutul Sr. returns to television, this time on CMT for a new “Orange County Choppers” 8-episode series premiering Saturday, November 16 at 9:00-10:00 p.m., ET/PT. Content? Same as usual: “Senior” takes on the most challenging bike builds of his careers, navigates tight deadlines, shows lofty ego. All this with the complicity of a team of rowdy co-workers doing outrageous pranks…

Highlights from the premiere season of “Orange County Choppers include”:

1- An international client orders a custom “dragon bike” that becomes one of the most intricate builds the team has ever taken on. When a prank goes awry and a piece of the dragon is broken, all hands must be on deck to resolve the problem and finish the bike by the time the client returns to the US. Continue reading ‘All-New Series “Orange County Choppers” Premiering On CMT November 16.’

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Harley Riders Come Together

Published by Cyril Huze October 8th, 2013 in Brakes, Editorial and Videos.

You already know that 8 of the new 2014 Harley-Davidson models (Rushmore Project) have been conceived to pass faster, stop quicker, see further at night, communicate better and offer a better music experience. For its new commercial Harley did some “crowd sourcing”, casting real-life riders through Twitter and asking them their favorite cover version of the Beatles song “Come Together.” Irish band The Strypes version won the vote and is used in this new national TV commercial.

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It’s A Blower Bitch

Published by Cyril Huze October 7th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

The purpose of this feature is not about giving you a technical explanation on motorcycle turbocharging or supercharging. Let’s just say that when properly setup, a motorcycle equipped with one of these 2 systems is offering one of the zaniest white-knuckle experiences you’ll ever enjoy. If you haven’t ridden one, you need to and you will understand what this “Blower Bitch” custom bike that I discovered during a recent trip to Germany is all about. From the builder/owner I got a tech sheet and only 1 comment “It rides like hell…” I think I understand what he really meant. Continue reading ‘It’s A Blower Bitch’

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RKB Kustom Speed 2013 Voted “Artistry In Iron” Champion At Las Vegas Bikefest

Published by Cyril Huze October 6th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

During this weekend, 20 hot custom bikes were competing in the “Artistry In Iron” championship during Las Vegas Bikefest.

Yesterday Saturday October 5, 2013, at 6 pm at the Las Vegas Cashman Center, organizer Mindi Cherry announced the 2013 champion, unanimously voted the winner by his peers competing against him. Rick Bray from California based RKB Kustom Speed won the bragging rights and $10,000.

It’s a gorgeous Shovelhead that Rick bought 5 years ago from his brother when he ran out of money to finish it. Rick took all these years to finish it, hand making most of the parts in his garage and trading the others with friends.

He already won many awards in bike shows with this creation and declared that he will probably give it back to his brother…and start a new build. (photos @ Jack Mcintyre for Cyril Huze)

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BUB Seven Streamliner To Challenge Current 376.156 MPH Land Speed World Record

Published by Cyril Huze October 6th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

Denis Manning, designer and builder of the BUB Seven Streamliner, is scheduled to attend the Cook Land Speed Shootout October 10th-14th 2013, on Utah’s legendary Bonneville Salt Flats. The FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) and AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) sanctioned event will gather the top motorcycle competitors for a battle against the current world record of 376.156mph held by Mike Akatiff’s Ack Attack Streamliner, ridden by Rocky Robinson. After a 4 year hiatus, and thanks to the generous funding of sponsor Jamie Williams, owner of Stockton Recycling Center, the BUB Seven Streamliner made a respectable 323.333mph shakedown run during the 2013 BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials.

Denis Manning, a AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer, is no stranger to record-breaking speed. In 1970, another Manning-designed streamliner ridden by Cal Rayborn held the world record at a speed of 265.492mph. During the 2006 BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials, rider Chris Carr, 7-time AMA Grand National Flat Track Champion piloted the BUB Seven Streamliner for a new record of 350.884 mph. The record has continued to change hands between the Ack Attack Streamliner and BUB Seven. BUB recaptured the record again in 2009 with an average speed of 367.382 mph before it fell again to the Ack Attack at the current speed of 376.156 mph in 2010. Continue reading ‘BUB Seven Streamliner To Challenge Current 376.156 MPH Land Speed World Record’

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Zipper’s Twin Cam® 95″ and 103″ Cylinder Exchange Program. No Wait…

Published by Cyril Huze October 6th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.

Zippers offers a new exchange program with no wait to have your cylinders sized. Their Twin Cam cylinders are in stock, fitted and ready to ship. Forged Wiseco pistons with moly-coated skirts in three different dome configurations allow you to choose the correct compression for your application. Cylinder kits include rings, pins, clips and a complete top end and cam change gasket set. Just carefully pack up your stock, unmodified TC cylinders and send them to Zippers for same day turnaround. Of course your exchanged cylinders must be in acceptable cosmetic condition. Cylinders are bored to 3-7/8″ (95″ for TC88 engines, 103″ for TC96) and precision honed by Zipper’s skilled craftsmen using Zipper’s state-of-the-art CNC equipment. Zippers Big Bore Cylinder Kits.

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Wayne Pierce Family Collection Of Motorcycles To Be Auctioned In Las Vegas January 9, 2014

Published by Cyril Huze October 5th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

It will be the 4th annual Bonhams Las Vegas Auction Of Motorcycles at Bally’s Hotel and Casino. On the block, all offered with no reserve, over 50 motorcycles from the extensive Wayne Pierce family museum collection. Among the machines is a first-year Harley-Davidson Sportster believed to be the 10th XL883 produced in 1957, a 1933 Harley VLE police bike that saw actual duty on the streets of Chicago before being cast in the 1987 Kevin Costner movie “The Untouchables,” and an authentic and unrestored 1947 Harley Knucklehead wearing period correct aftermarket accessories. Continue reading ‘Wayne Pierce Family Collection Of Motorcycles To Be Auctioned In Las Vegas January 9, 2014’

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2014 Motus Motorcycles In Motion For Final Validation Test

Published by Cyril Huze October 5th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.

The 2014 American motorcycles Motus MST and MSTR are undergoing their final validation in Utah, a State chosen for its range of altitudes, temperatures, surfaces, big-sky roads … and low risk of encounter with road law enforcement. Motus state the testing bikes have 30,000 miles under their tires and that so far it’s all good.

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Mustang’s “Think Pink” Limited Edition Seats To Raise Money For Breast Cancer Research

Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and one of the motorcycle companies to participate in this campaign is Mustang Seats. The “Comfort For A Cause” campaign, complete with the hallmark pink ribbons, was created to support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s efforts to find a cure. Mustang is helping people to “think pink.”

“We wanted to find a way to honor the survival, determination and compassion of those fighting breast cancer in a way that was uniquely Mustang,” says Marketing Director Marilyn Simmons. “Comfort For A Cause is a perfect way for us to do our part.” Mustang will donate $10 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation for each limited edition seat sold during the month of October.

According to Marilyn, BCRF was selected as the charity of choice because 91% of the funds raised go directly to breast cancer research and awareness programs. “We believe we can make a positive impact by working with BCRF and it is comforting to know that 88% of the money raised goes right to research. The remaining 3% is going to the awareness campaign… which is where our pink seats can help call attention to this worthy cause!” Continue reading ‘Mustang’s “Think Pink” Limited Edition Seats To Raise Money For Breast Cancer Research’

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More Love For Your Harley Sportster. New Progressive Suspension 412 Cruise Series Shocks

Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Suspension.

The new 412 Cruise is a perfectly balanced recipe of lowered stance, ride quality and modest price point. By combining a flat-wire spring with a progressive main spring the 12.5” shock sits like an 11.5” unit, yet utilizes the full stroke as terrain demands it. The result is a lowered shock that rides like traditional height suspension. Based on a proven gas charged damper and preload adjustable spring, the 412 Cruise fits 1977 through 2014 Sportster models. Available in black or chrome. Check out the Progressive website or contact your local Progressive Suspension dealer for more information. 412 Cruise Series MSRP: $ 349.95.

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Be “Cooler” With New Triple Vent System Jackets From Harley-Davidson

Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.

Harley-Davidson® is introducing the all-new Triple Vent System (TVS) air management strategy that delivers an all-new level of touring comfort. “When riders asked us for an abrasion-resistant motorcycle jacket that delivered more body cooling venting, our MotorClothes® team went to the ultimate place to engineer maximum airflow: the wind tunnel,” said Christian Walters, Director General Merchandise. “It was an unprecedented effort to engineer a jacket, but it ensured that riders got exactly what they asked for. I think that’s cool.”

Developed under the banner Project RUSHMORE, the outcome of a new customer-driven product development effort that the Motor Company implemented to re-engineer the new line of touring motorcycles and associated Harley-Davidson MotorClothes, TVS improves the touring experience with three zippered vents on each jacket side, where they are exposed to the greatest airflow on motorcycles equipped with a fairing. Additionally, the airflow through each vent is unaffected by passengers or backrests, while stay-open snap tabs enable extra-wide vent openings for even greater airflow while riding. For optimal breathability while idling in traffic, the three vents are tiered, with the leading vent located the lowest and each succeeding vent extending higher onto the sides of the jacket, allowing natural upward air movement to further cool the rider. TVS is initially available on three jackets for men in leather and textile options, and one women’s leather jacket. Continue reading ‘Be “Cooler” With New Triple Vent System Jackets From Harley-Davidson’

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Good Bye To The Iconic Volkswagen Combi

Published by Cyril Huze October 4th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

After 6 decades, Volkswagen is ending the production of the iconic Volkswagen Combi.

Baby boomers among you remember its glory days at the time of the Vietnam war protests, when it became a symbol of the hippie community, synonymous of freedom on the road…

The Combi was made in Brasil since 1957 and 1,800,000 were produced. It was still exported in other South America countries and in Africa.

A special edition of 600 sold for about $35,000 is going to be the last chapter. Several websites are still devoted to the art of living in a VW Combi, feature classified and sell Combi gear, hippie or not.

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Jesse James Re-Introducing The AllState Tires In The US. West Coast Choppers Is Exclusive Distributor..

Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.

This morning, Jesse James informed me that he just became the exclusive seller in the US of all AllState motorcycle tires. For the youngsters among you who never heard about ALLState, the brand was very popular in the 1940’s and 50’s for cars, bicycles and motorcycles and was distributed by Sear & Roebuck. The AllState tires are a great choice for all of you into choppers and vintage restorations. They are already available in 16″, 18″ and 19″ and Jesse tells me that a very Super Skinny 21″ front tire is coming very soon. AllState Tires are available at West Coast Choppers.

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30TH Anniversary Love Ride. October 20, 2013

Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

This year, the Love Ride celebrates 3 decades of great performances to raise money for great causes . The day will begin at Glendale Harley-Davidson (3717 San Fernando Road, Glendale, CA 91204) and ends at Castaic Lake Recreation Area (32132 Castaic Lake Dr, Castaic, CA 91384) First, participants will enjoy a concert series with American Hitman and The Forest Rangers with Katey Sagal at Glendale Harley-Davidson from 6am-8:30am.

It will be followed by a celebrity press conference with Grand Marshal Jay Leno, Oliver Shokouh (Love Ride Founder and Chairman), Robert Patrick (Honorary Grand Marshall), Peter Fonda (Honorary Grand Marshal) and Willie G. Davidson (Honorary Chairman)

Riders will then ride up to Castaic Lake Recreation Area where the party continues for motorcycle riders and non-motorcycle riders alike, from 10 am to 4 pm. Food trucks, drawings for one-of-kind motorcycle items, a custom bike and car show and special music performances by Jackson Browne, Jacksh*t, Chevy Metal, The Loveless and special guests. . Continue reading ’30TH Anniversary Love Ride. October 20, 2013′

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Stainless Steel Themed Gauges

Published by Cyril Huze October 3rd, 2013 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.

For those looking to have a graphic theme extended to their bike’s gauge(s), this company offers offers several standard choices (left) and the option to have your own(s) custom designed and fabricated just for you (right.) They are made out of stainless steel for less trouble than with chrome. To fit all Harley-Davidson dashes. Made in the USA. Eyezon Customs.

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S&S Cycle Viola V-Twin Now Offers U.S. Made Cometic Gasket Kits For Vintage And Latest Bike Models

Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2013 in Driveline, Editorial and Engines.

S&S Cycle has added Cometic® gasket kits to its Viola V-Twin (VVT) line of quality service parts for maintenance and repair of American v-twin motorcycle engines.

VVT carries engine gasket kits and top end gasket kits for 1948-present Harley-Davidson® big twins and 1986-present Sportster® models.

This offering brings superior gasket technology to vintage bikes as well as to the very latest models. Cometic is well known for their excellent quality and innovative products made in the USA. More info at S&S Parts Viola V-Twin

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Why We Ride. A New Documentary Film.

Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2013 in Editorial and Videos.

A new and extremely beautiful film about the passion of the riders and the soul of their machines. “Why We Ride” is the story of who we are, the dream, the discovery of a life outside the daily confinements and the sharing of our road experience with others. Once you let a motorcycle into your life, it will change you forever…

The documentary world premiere is tomorrow Thursday October 3, 2013. It will play in theaters and have a home video release. Production crew includes James Walker (Producer), Bryan H. Carroll (Producer and Director), Chris Hampel (Co-Producer and Writer), Walter Zuck (Executive Producer)

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In My Digital Mailbox

Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2013 in Builders and Editorial.

From Johnny V. September 29, 2013 at 10.14 p.m.

“Billy Lane is a changed man. He lives with regret every day but has made peace with the family of the deceased and is in touch with them daily.

He has made peace with God and has become a deeply religious and ethical man. Hardest of all, he has made peace with himself because self- loathing is the sure path to relapse.

The critics are hypocrites. I did time with Billy. I had never heard of him before. I quickly saw he was very different from the usual inmates I couldn’t stand to be near. He is a very intelligent and well read gentleman .”

I am proud to call Billy Lane a friend. I was in for a driving charge and lost trial.”

(From Cyril Huze. Billy Lane will be released in 6 months)

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Jokes Of The week

Published by Cyril Huze October 2nd, 2013 in Editorial.

In Florida

A Florida senior citizen drove his brand new Corvette convertible out of the dealership. Taking off down the road, he pushed it to 80 mph, enjoying the wind blowing through what little hair he had left. “Amazing,” he thought as he flew down I-95, pushing the pedal even more.

Looking in his rear view mirror, he saw a Florida State Trooper, blue lights flashing and siren blaring. He floored it to 100 mph, then 110, then 120. Suddenly he thought, “What am I doing? I’m too old for this!” and pulled over to await the trooper’s arrival.

Pulling in behind him, the trooper got out of his vehicle and walked up to the Corvette. He looked at his watch, then said, “Sir, my shift ends in 30 minutes. Today is Friday. If you can give me a new reason for speeding – a reason I’ve never before heard – I’ll let you go..”

The old gentleman paused then said, “Three years ago, my wife ran off with a Florida State Trooper. I thought you were bringing her back.” “Have a good day, Sir,” replied the trooper.

In Georgia

The owner of a golf course in Georgia was confused about paying an invoice, so he decided to ask his secretary for some mathematical help. He called her into his office and said, “Y’all graduated from the University of Georgia and I need some help. If I wuz to give yew $20,000, minus 14%, how much would you take off?” The secretary thought a moment, and then replied, “Everthang but my earrings.” Continue reading ‘Jokes Of The week’

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New Harley-Davidson Chisel Fuel Gauge And Fuel Cap

Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2013 in Accessories, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.

These parts were released at the recent Harley-Davidson Dealer Summer Meeting.

Part of a new Harley Chisel collection, you can top your fuel tank with these 2 new items.

The fuel gauge and fuel cap feature a rich black finish, highlighted with complex machining in a radial spoke design that exposes bright, raw aluminum. Both are styled to complement Chisel Extreme Billet Air Cleaners, Floating Brake Rotors, and Custom Wheels.

The low-profile Chisel Collection Fuel Gauge (P/N 70900354, $179.95) replaces the analog readout with six bright LED lamps that glow blue when the tank is full and extinguish one by one as fuel is consumed.

A photocell automatically adjusts LED brightness for improved visibility in direct sunlight, and dims the display at night to avoid distraction. It offers plug-in installation without wire splicing. This fuel gauge fits 2009-later Dyna® models (except Super Glide®), many 2008-later Softail® models, and 2008-later Road King® models. (Some local regulations prohibit using colored lights during vehicle operation on public streets. It may not conform to local lighting regulations.)

The Chisel Collection Fuel Cap (P/N 61100038, $69.95) features a ratcheting design so the cap can be rotated until the central Bar & Shield logo faces the correct direction. This fuel cap fits many 1992-later Sportster® and Dyna® models, 2000-later Softail® models and 1994-later Road King® models. More info at Harley-Davidson Website.

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First Report Card On The Inaugural AIMExpo. October 16-20.

Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2013 in Editorial and Events.

Although this post may sound as directed only to the members of the media, I thought it would be of interest for my readers to say a few words about the way motorcycle reporters, journalists, photographers, video crews, etc cover the main motorcycle events, both trade and consumers. Some rallies and trade shows, more than others, recognize the importance of the positive role media plays in an event and facilitate access to public and professional activities, offer amenities, physical press release mailboxes, internet connection etc to help us report fast and accurately. Something benefiting all the industry, professionals – manufacturers,vendors, distributors wishing the largest possible media coverage of their new products and services, and of course all those enjoying motorcycling. Before the upcoming Inaugural Orlando AIMExpo (October 16-20) gets started, I must salute their innovative take – for the USA – on the conventional media center. (media hubs as described are already offered since decades in all major motorcycle events in Europe and Asia.)
To help members of the media, The AIMExpo “business to business” and “business to consumer” event has developed the AIMExpo Media Hub, a one-of-a-kind space that will serve as the command center for the trade segment of the event from Wednesday, October 16, to Friday, October 18 and provide us with everything we need to report: designated workspaces with web access, private meeting rooms, and a stage dedicated for presentations and showcases of new products. Continue reading ‘First Report Card On The Inaugural AIMExpo. October 16-20.’

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Caught On Video. Bikers Chase SUV Driver For Fender Bender And Attack Him.

Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2013 in Editorial and Videos.

The story. In upper Manhattan, NY one biker riding with a large group apparently cut a Range Rover driver off and slammed on the brakes. Consequently, the SUV hits the motorcycle rear tire. Driver stops and bikers start damaging the car. The driver speeds away, striking 3 motorcycles. A long chase begins on the West Side Highway until the driver gets off on W. 176th Street and is obliged to stop at a a red light on W. 178th Street. One of the bikers takes off his helmet which he uses to smash through the driver’s side window. Another one tries to punch through a window to the backseat where a child was sitting. The driver who was traveling with his wife and child in the SUV was taken to Columbia University Medical Center where he received stitches for face cuts, then released. No other injuries were reported. Police have arrested 15 people and seized 55 motorcycles in connection with the stunt event. A biker’s helmet cam shows the SUV chase and the attack.

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Harley-Davidson Riders Wear Pink to Raise $1 Million For Women With Breast Cancer

Published by Cyril Huze October 1st, 2013 in Editorial, Events and Merchandise.

The Harley-Davidson family of riders and fans has a promise for women affected by breast cancer: You’re not alone, because we ride with you. These riders and fans added extra horsepower to that promise by raising more than $1 million for organizations that support and empower women affected by breast cancer through the purchase of Harley-Davidson® Genuine MotorClothes® Pink Label Collection apparel and merchandise.

“The brave and courageous women who have shared with us stories of battling breast cancer are the inspiration for the Pink Label Collection,” said Karen Davidson, Creative Director of General Merchandise and great granddaughter of a Harley-Davidson Motor Company founder. “The custom Pink Label gear is a powerful way for riders and enthusiasts to express their support for the one in eight women in the United States who are diagnosed with this disease.” Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Riders Wear Pink to Raise $1 Million For Women With Breast Cancer’

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Custom Sportster Forty Eight Built The Right Way Down Under

Published by Cyril Huze September 30th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.

Warwick Lyon is an Australian garage builder who wanted to build a modern interpretation of a Cafe Racer with elements of a hard-boiled Street-Fighter. For help with design and fabrication that he could not handle in his home workshop, he turned to Brisbane based Ellaspede Custom Motorcycles. With the help of duo Steve and Leo at Ellaspede he defined the overall concept: a more powerful Sportster Forty Eight through an enhanced appearance and modified engine.

The stock Harley 1200cc V-Twin is already a good reasonably good performing engine for this type of bike. Horsepower increase and bike responsiveness was achieved via a simple Stage 1 modification: with a high performance Screaming Eagle air intake, a free flowing Vance & Hines exhaust system, and by remapping the ECU using the Screaming Eagle Super Tuner, the engine’s performance has been upgraded to produce around 75 hp versus stock 67 hp.. Continue reading ‘Custom Sportster Forty Eight Built The Right Way Down Under’

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Las Vegas Artistry In Iron Custom Builders Championship

Published by Cyril Huze September 29th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Events.

The 13th Annual Las Vegas BikeFest is coming next weekend October 3-6. Among the many biker events organized in Sin City (see them HERE), one favorite is The Artistry In Iron Championship where 20 builders are going to compete and judged by their peers for the title of 2013 Champion. f you appreciate the artistry of a well-built machine, you gotta check this out. The famous and soon to be famous will have their bikes on display at this “invitation only” bike show. You’ll get to check out the bikes, chat with the builders and get autographs from your favorites. Awards will be presented on Saturday, 10/5 at 6:00pm in the Artistry in Iron display area. A check for $10,000 will be presented to the winning builder, as voted by his peers – the other participating builders. In addition, a trophy will be presented to the People’s Choice Winner. Check who are the invited builders at Artistry In Iron (bike by Powerplant Choppers)

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