Cyril Huze Post

Archive Page 167

World Fastest Motorcycles Arrived On The Salts Of Bonneville.

Published by Cyril Huze August 25th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.

Racers and their machines arrived in Bonneville for the 10th Anniversary 2013 BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials. During 6 days (August 24-29), conditions of the salt being good, they are going to try to put their names in the record books of motorcycle land speed records. Not doubt that by the end of this coming week the American Motorcyclist Association will have clocked numerous provisional record-setting runs in classes featuring everything from 50cc mini-bikes to 2,000cc-plus purpose-built top-speed machines.

One battle that should bring a lot of attention is the run for the outright land-speed record on two wheels. Two streamliners are currently registered, the BUB No. 7 Streamliner that will be piloted by AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer and seven-time AMA Grand National Champion Chris Carr and a Triumph streamliner with AMA Pro Racing road racer Jason Disalvo at the controls. Both Carr and Disalvo will have their eyes on the current record, 376.363 mph, set by rider Rocky Robinson and builder Mike Akatiff in 2010. Carr is a former world record holder, running 367.382 mph in 2009.

The last bastion of pure motorcycle racing without any commercial interference is one of the most respected events. The amount of effort, investment, practice and teamwork that goes into just a few seconds of time at speed on the track is amazing to behold. Although It’s not every year that conditions are perfectly right for a record run, I bet that new records will be achieved. More information at American Motorcyclist Association. (photography Scooter Grubb courtesy to Cyril Huze)

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In 2 Pictures. What Is New On The 2014 Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited.

Published by Cyril Huze August 25th, 2013 in Builders and Editorial.

Harley-Davidson said: “We changed everything without screwing up anything. We don’t make change for change’s sake. We ride countless miles with other riders to find the innovations that truly make a difference in the ride”
In one picture, you can see Harley-Davidson “Project Rushmore” improvements to the 2014 FLHTK Eectra Glide Ultra Limited. In the other picture the very talked about Harley Twin-Cooled engine setup. USA MSRP. Vivid Black $25,899. Two-Tones $26,939. Custom Colors $27,164.

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Toby Keith And Dar Holdsworth Partnership In Brass Balls Cycles. The Promo Video.

Published by Cyril Huze August 25th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Videos.

On August 7, 2013 in Sturgis, Dar Holdsworth And Country Star Toby Keith officially confirmed their partnership in Brass Balls Cycles (see feature HERE). Dar just sent me their promo video.

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Breaking News. Bourget Bike Works. Complete Shop Liquidation.

Published by Cyril Huze August 24th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

Bourget Bike Works has retained K.D. Auctions for an online only auction of its rolling chassis, CNC machines, tooling, parts and accessories. An inspection preview is organized at Bourget Bike Works 21407 N. Central Avenue in Phoenix, AZ 85024 on Tuesday September 17, 2013 from 9 am to 4 pm (PT). Over 400 lots are offered to the highest bidders with closing Wednesday September 18, 2013, 7.30 am (PT)

Roger and Brigitte Bourget divorced in 2005, and since 2009 Brigitte solely owned and managed the business. In 1993, Roger Bourget was the original creator with his wife of Bourget’s Bike Works and imposed at the time a very unique drop seat/long front end custom motorcycle style that everybody at the time could identify as his design. A design copied later by many other builders. Roger at the time was offering the first V-Twin custom bike with a 170-17 rear tire, then the first jackshaft frame with car tire, the first to offer a rolling chassis, the first oil-in-frame/drop-seat chassis, the first jackshaft design with centered drive train for wide-tire chassis and also created and designed the fat 5-speed tranny with Jim’s collaboration. Following the divorce from Brigitte, Roger left Bourget Bike Works in July 2009 and opened with new wife Emily a shop in Montrose, Colorado called Roger’s Bourget Chopper Shoppe. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. Bourget Bike Works. Complete Shop Liquidation.’

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Does Your Bike Has What It Takes To Be Featured In The 2014 BAKER Drivetrain Calendar

Published by Cyril Huze August 24th, 2013 in Customs, Driveline, Editorial and Events.

Each year, BAKER Drivetrain produces a semi-racy poster sized calendars. Each year, until now, they have featured a custom bike built in-house sporting the latest and greatest of BAKER products, and of course featuring a pretty girl straddling it.

This year they decided to feature your bike if it’s very cool and it uses some BAKER parts. Hence, the mad hunt starting today or the perfect 2014 “BAKER Calendar Bike.”To be considered, the BAKER decision crew needs to be certain that your bike is available to their photographer for a shoot – with their model on it – before the end of the year 2013. Continue reading ‘Does Your Bike Has What It Takes To Be Featured In The 2014 BAKER Drivetrain Calendar’

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Motorcycle Versus Black Bear

Published by Cyril Huze August 24th, 2013 in Editorial and Videos.

A dog, deer or black bear may decide to run out in front of your motorcycle. Although the bear actually walked away from the crash, the motorcyclist incurred serious but not life-threatening injuries.

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All Five 2014 Harley Sportster Models Get New Brakes, Optional ABS, Keyless Security

Published by Cyril Huze August 23rd, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

The confidence-inspiring control offered by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is a new option for all 2014 Harley-Davidson Sportster® model motorcycles. The five-model Sportster line also features updated hand controls and brake components, improved service access, and an optional H-D® Smart Security System with a proximity-based, hands-free security fob. Since its introduction in 1957, the Harley-Davidson Sportster motorcycle has combined nimble handling and distinctive style in perfect tune with the charismatic beat of an American V-Twin engine. From the Dark Custom™ menace of the Iron 883™ and Forty-Eight® to the easy-handling ride of the SuperLow®; the radical chopper rake of the Seventy-Two™ to the factory custom options of the 1200 Custom, there’s a Harley-Davidson Sportster model to fit your vision and attitude.

New Brakes: The front and rear braking system of all 2014 Sportster models has been redesigned to offer premium performance. Front rotor diameter is increased from 292mm to 300mm. A restyled front-brake caliper features a more-rigid design and dual 34mm pistons that are 36 percent larger than the previous 25mm pistons, for increase braking power. A new high-efficiency aluminum front master cylinder offers reduced friction for improved over-all brake feel. Rear brake rotor diameter is unchanged at 260mm, but the rear caliper is restyled and updated with dual 38mm pistons. Front and rear brakes are fitted with Original Equipment braided stainless steel brake lines.

Optional ABS: Offered as a stand-alone, factory-installed option for all 2014 Sportster models. The components of the Harley-Davidson ABS have been designed and packaged to be virtually invisible, preserving the uncluttered styling of the area around the wheels. This is not a linked ABS, so the rider maintains full, independent control of both front and rear brakes.

Integrated Electrical System: An all-new electrical system incorporates a new analog speedometer with digital tachometer, restyled ergonomic hand controls, an updated wire harness and voltage regulator, and a new oil tank and side cover design that makes it easier to access and service the battery and diagnostic terminal. The new hand controls include a left-hand Trip switch to toggle through screen displays on the new speedometer, including an odometer, tripmeter and the new gear indicator and RPM display. Continue reading ‘All Five 2014 Harley Sportster Models Get New Brakes, Optional ABS, Keyless Security’

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The Harris Saunders Story. On Our Worst Days, We Are Still Much Better Off Than Many People In This World

Published by Cyril Huze August 23rd, 2013 in Editorial, Engines and Events.

A Special Sturgis Narrative By Chris Clemens of S&S Cycle.

Working in the motorcycle industry gives me an opportunity to make my daily bread surrounded by machines and people that bring me joy. My boss actually pays me to ride across country on a company bike and partake in the revelry of Sturgis! That’s a pretty good deal by my accounting. But sometimes the deal gets even better, sometimes quite unpredictably.

On a warm and dry Wednesday morning at the Sturgis Dragway, S&S Cycle hosted an event in which individuals had an opportunity to ride their own machines wide open down the drag strip followed by a second pass on a Harley-Davidson® Dyna® model fitted with a fire breathing 124 cubic inch engine pushing 130 hp and 135 ft/lbs of torque.

That day, nineteen riders shared in this experience and, by all accounts, were thrilled by the opportunity. Once all of the participants had moved along, something very special happened. One of those moments where a man can feel good about what he does, not because it brings him a tangible reward or compensation, but because his actions bring joy to others, unsolicited, unexpected.

Dean Young, my friend and colleague who basically lives on the road promoting the S&S brand and representing the company at events, had arranged for one of our dealers, Harry Saunders from Shooters and Scooters in Troy, MT to participate in the event at the Dragway. Harry’s experience that day would not be of the standard variety, and in this most unexpected place, turned out to be something quite meaningful and gratifying. In the resplendent summer sun amidst the superficial attractions of Sturgis, we were going to send a one armed man down the track.

Harry had lost his right arm in an unintended dynamite explosion while working as an excavator. He described being lifted 15 feet into the air and tossed 100, sure that his time on this earth would end that day. It didn’t though, and here he was, in the flesh and with most of his bones, ready to seize this moment in his life that he so very nearly lost. Don’t for a moment believe that Harry is a charity case or dependent on the goodwill of others. No, Harry rode his own specially modified bike to the track, we simply modified ours to make this occasion one in which he could partake. In the place of his right arm is a prosthesis that looks Terminator cool and is emblazoned with two stickers, one the Harley-Davidson® bar and shield, the other, the S&S banner. Continue reading ‘The Harris Saunders Story. On Our Worst Days, We Are Still Much Better Off Than Many People In This World’

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Radical Body Kit For Harley Touring Motorcycles

Published by Cyril Huze August 22nd, 2013 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.

During these last 3 years, Cameron Jurow from Camtech Custom Baggers has won a lot of trophies with his freestyle one-off riders and show baggers.

If you are into this radical tourer style, the good news for you is that Cameron is now offering the smooth body kit that adorn a lot of his winning creations. Called the NYB kit, he states that it can be installed in 20 minutes (!) and guarantees a perfect fit out of the box, no extra body work required.

Like most body part vendorsCamtech used to produce all its touring custom parts in fiberglass but has now switched its best selling ones to the urethane process. At time of publication their 2009-2013 touring model flared body kit, low profile dash, seat pan and big mouth chin spoiler are in stock. 2000-2008 body kits touring model body lits are right now in production and available to ship in 30 days. Camtech Custom Baggers. Tel. 843-552-0336.

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Indian Motorcycle Wants To Set The New Standard For Premium Motorcycle Ownership, Service And Support.

Published by Cyril Huze August 22nd, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

In conjunction with the launch of its new 2014 Indian® Chief® platform, Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company, announced the “Indian Motorcycle Assurance Program” intended to become a new standard for premium motorcycle ownership, service and support. The comprehensive program has been created to make purchasing, owning and riding the new 2014 Indian Chief motorcycles an approachable and effortless experience for new owners. The program complements the company’s historic reveal of three all new 2014 models — the Indian Chief Classic, the Indian Chief Vintage, and the Indian Chieftain — at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on August 3 in South Dakota. The new Indian Motorcycle Assurance Program consists of the following elements:

5 Years of Coverage: Indian Motorcycle® backs every new Indian Motorcycle with 5 years of coverage that includes both a 1 year limited warranty and an extended service contract. Coverage is subject to $50 deductible with no mileage limitation.

Fly & Ride: The Fly & Ride program encourages new owners to make buying and riding a new Indian Chief a memorable and rewarding experience. Buyers can fly to an Indian Motorcycle dealer on any commercial airline, ride their new bike home, and receive a $250 credit on their Indian Chief purchase.

Trade-in Confidence: Buy a new 2014 Indian Chief with the total confidence that comes from guaranteed trade-in values. Two years after purchase, owners can bank on a guaranteed trade-in value of 70 percent of original MSRP, and 60 percent trade-in value after three years.

Competitive Financing: Indian Motorcycle dealers across the country are offering competitive financing rates of 3.99% for 36 months, or 6.99% for 72 months. Rates are available now through the end of the 2013.

Roadside Assistance: New owners who purchase now through the end of 2013 receive a full year of roadside assistance coverage. Available services include emergency transport (up to 100 miles at no cost), pickup and delivery of your motorcycle (charges apply), fluids delivery, and jump starting services.

In addition to the Indian Motorcycle Assurance Program, there is a 24 hours a day, seven days a week Concierge Hotline available for Indian Motorcycle owners. New owners of an all-new 2014 Indian Chief motorcycle can buy and ride with confidence knowing service, support and assistance is a phone call away. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle Wants To Set The New Standard For Premium Motorcycle Ownership, Service And Support.’

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Fast Motorcycle Industry News

Published by Cyril Huze August 22nd, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Proposal To Name Highway 45 Harley-Davidson Heritage Highway. Highway 45 runs 300 miles from the Illinois state line to Upper Michigan. If you travel that stretch, you’ll pass at least two of Harley-Davidson’s major facilities, one off of Pilgrim Road. and one at Capitol Drive. Jim Crain of the Milwaukee HOG Chapter is working with former State Senator Dave Zien and a number of other Harley-Davidson enthusiasts to propose that Highway 45 be renamed the Harley-Davidson Heritage Highway of Honor. They’ll announce a formal plan to move it through the state legislature on Friday, August 23rd. In the past, some have expressed concerns about naming a public stretch of road for a private company. But Gov. Scott Walker, a Harley-Davidson rider himself, says he would support it.

NHTSA Announces Plan For VIN Recall Online Tool. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has published a final rule requiring automakers and motorcycle manufacturers to provide consumers with a free, online tool on their websites so the motorists can search recall information by Vehicle Identification Number starting next year. “Safety is our highest priority, and an informed consumer is one of our strongest allies in that effort,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Owners and potential buyers alike will soon be able to identify whether a safety recall for their specific vehicle is incomplete, using our free online search at SaferCar.gov.”The announcement also says the VIN information will help NHTSA identify defect trends, and manufacturers will be required to provide vehicle owners with direct notice of recalls within 60 days of notifying NHTSA that a recall is occurring. This rule says the online information must be updated at least weekly. Consumers will be able to determine whether they must take action to address an uncompleted safety recall that affects their specific vehicle.

Electric motorcycles Set To Hit Historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. BElectric motorcycles will hit the Indy Motor Speedway on Sunday for the eight-lap FIM eRoadRacing World Cup. “I think it’s a great idea and it’s a great venue, and that’s been evidenced by the amount of fans and interest,” Brammo team manager Brian Wismann said. “This is the world center of racing and this is new technology, new racing, exciting racing. It only makes sense for it to be here.” Adrian Stewart, Brammo’s director of marketing, says it’s just a matter of time before electric bikes become more mainstream. For those who think the quieter bikes aren’t real motorcycles, Ted Rich, who qualified fourth on a Zero S, disagrees. “This is no Prius,” he said. “It’s a high-performance motorcycle right off the shelf just like R6 or any of the gas Supersport bikes. This is a real motorcycle. You could ride it to work every day, you can race it out here. It’s ready for prime time. It’s very unique, too.” Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’

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Harley-Davidson New Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™

Published by Cyril Huze August 21st, 2013 in Builders, Editorial, Engines and Events.

Project Rushmore is qualified by Harley-Davidson as “the largest scale new model launch” in its 110-year history. In addition to new electronics, infotainment with touchscreen features, the Rushmore Project includes a long list of upgrades to provide the 2014 Touring & Trike models with more power (more roll-on power, brisker passing performance), and rider control in a variety of situations (Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS that dynamically optimize front/rear brake balance when the motorcycle is above 20 to 25 mph, new electronic clutch control requiring less pressure, new front suspension with larger fork sliders and stiffer triple clamps for improved steering response, brilliant headlamps to make the motorcycle conspicuous to others)

What surprised me somewhat among the many press releases provided to the media is the relatively small volume of information given to us regarding the High Output Twin Cam 103 (Original Equipment on the 2014 Harley-Davidson Road King®, Street Glide®, Street Glide® Special, and Electra Glide® Ultra Classic® motorcycle models) and especially on the Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ (featured in the 2014 Ultra Limited and Tri Glide™ Ultra models.)

Why so? Is it that Harley-Davidson is conflicted with the necessity of engine development initiatives (giving power hungry bikers what they want while satisfying EPA regulations) and the desire not to scare the Harley purists reticent to any innovation including a liquid cooled engine and its required radiator? The High Outpost Twin Cam 103 is a straightforward improvement with a new camshaft to optimize bottom-end torque and a new high-flow airbox improving legroom and airflow around the rider. It is stated to deliver 5% more torque than the standard Twin Cam 103™ powertrain. The new Harley debate is centered around the Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ version equipping the 2014 Ultra Limited and Tri Glide™ Ultra models. Some say sacrilege. Others point out the necessity to make Harleys function better and applaud the company for its engine evolution/innovation. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson New Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™’

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Indian Larry Photography Exhibit By Timothy White

Published by Cyril Huze August 21st, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Living on the west coast or passing by not far from Los Angeles. You may be interested to visit the PROJECT Gallery in Hollywood where photographer Timothy White is exhibiting a retrospective of legendary motorcycle builder Indian Larry ((Larry Desmedt 1949-2004.) Excerpted from White’s book on his long time friend and riding partner, the exhibit features compelling and intimate images of Indian Larry and his radical bikes, as well as a viewing of the actual one of a kind, custom motorcycles built by the late artist. Exhibition runs until Sunday September 8, 2013, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily or by appointment. PROJECT Gallery. 1553 N. Cahuenga Blvd. Hollywood, CA 90028. Tel. 323-462-1100

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3rd Motorcycle Coast To Coast Cannonball Run. September 5-21, 2014.

Published by Cyril Huze August 21st, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

Lonnie Isam, Jr., promoter and owner of Jurassic Racing in Sturgis, South Dakota, has taken again on the challenge of the road with a new Motorcycle Cannonball. For the run’s third iteration, the run’s route master, John Classen has laid out a Southeast-to-Northwest course to be made in 17-days beginning September 5, 2014. The event requires that participants ride antique pre-1937 motorcycles. The estimated 4,100-mile transcontinental ride is currently scheduled to start on the East Coast at the world-famous Daytona Beach in Florida. I will be on location to report. To the greatest extent possible, the ride will utilize non-Interstate roadways and will conclude on the West Coast 2 1/2 weeks later in Tacoma, Washington after taking in some of America’s most scenic areas. Entrants will appreciate one day of rest to be spent in Junction City, Kansas. The adventurous riders will face the most difficult ride of all the Motorcycle Cannonball runs.

“We expect this to be the most challenging of our routes to date. We will be going coast-to-coast again, but it’s going to be a lot tougher this time,” said Isam, “and it’s likely that some may not complete the ride. We’ll see more BMWs this time, and more of the big 4-cylinders, the Hendersons and Indians. The JDs will be back and it will be interesting to see how the VLs compete with them so the Harleys will be fun to watch as will the Class I bikes (with engines smaller that 700 cc), which will have a very tough time completing the ride. We also have 3 bikes that will be over 100-years old, which will tackle the same course the bikes from the 1930s will be tackling so it’s going to be really hard on those bikes going over the mountains. This is a true endurance run, and it won’t be easy. There should be plenty of drama along the way.” Continue reading ‘3rd Motorcycle Coast To Coast Cannonball Run. September 5-21, 2014.’

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Billet Magneto Covers

Published by Cyril Huze August 20th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.

Machined from billet aluminum or brass. For safe operations they feature pressed-in, insulated wire terminals made from plastic. These top covers by MHC are for Fairbanks, Morris & Hunt magnetos. Distribution worldwide by W&W Cycles.

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New Indian Motorcycle Apparel

Published by Cyril Huze August 20th, 2013 in Editorial and Merchandise.

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David Roper Of Team Obsolete To Compete With This AJS 7R3 “Triple Knocker” To this Year’s Manx Grand Prix  

Published by Cyril Huze August 20th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.

The Manx Grand Prix motorcycle races, scheduled August 23-30 this year, are held annually on the Isle of Man TT “Mountain Circuit” course for two weeks, and this year marks the 90th anniversary of the race. The ‘MGP,’ or ‘Manx’ as it is more commonly known, is considered to be the amateur riders’ alternative to the original Isle of Man TT races held in May and June. No other motorcycle race is held on such a challenging track. This nearly 38-mile mountain course requires intense skill and courage, with its never-ending series of bends, bumps, jumps and stone walls. Continue reading ‘David Roper Of Team Obsolete To Compete With This AJS 7R3 “Triple Knocker” To this Year’s Manx Grand Prix  ’

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Harley-Davidson Unveils Its New Lineup Of 2014 Motorcycles

Published by Cyril Huze August 19th, 2013 in Builders and Events.

Yesterday, Harley-Davidson unveiled its new lineup of 2014 motorcycle models during the company’s annual Summer Dealer Meeting in Denver, Colo. The star of the show is not a single new bike – rather, it’s the landmark product development effort that resulted in Project RUSHMORE’s delivery of innovative, customer-driven enhancements to the line of touring motorcycles.

Project RUSHMORE encompasses eight new motorcycles that feature improved power and braking performance, enhanced rider ergonomics, and dramatic styling updates that completely redefine and fundamentally transform the touring motorcyclist’s experience. Project RUSHMORE is the result of an entirely new way to produce motorcycles. In a process that invokes the voice of the customer throughout an accelerated development program, the ideas and dreams of thousands of motorcyclists are allowed to percolate with those of Harley-Davidson employees.

Eight new 2014 Harley-Davidson models, including Road King®, Street Glide®, Street Glide® Special, Electra Glide® Ultra Classic®, Ultra Limited, Tri Glide® Ultra, CVO Ultra Limited and CVO Road King® feature innovative They slot into four customer-defined categories:

• Control: Project RUSHMORE bikes pass faster, stop quicker and see farther at night, thus inspiring rider confidence. Each model features the new Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ or the High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrains, Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), and Daymaker™ LED and Dual Halogen lighting.
• Infotainment: New color-screen Boom! – Box infotainment systems feature the first original-equipment voice recognition and touchscreen for music, GPS navigation and phone in motorcycling, with quality audio, Bluetooth® connectivity, text-to-speech technology, plus support for intercom and CB communications in a single module.
• Feel: Aerodynamics and ergonomics come together to improve comfort — from the new Batwing fairing with splitstream venting, which reduces head buffeting by 20 percent, to best-in-class ride for passengers with wider and deeper seats and new back and arm rests.
• Style: The form and the function of many components are improved – a reshaped Tour-Pak® and saddlebags with convenient One-Touch latches, sleeker fenders, lighter cast aluminum wheels and intuitive hand control switches.

Road King®

• High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain • Stiffer 49mm forks • Dual Halogen headlamp and halogen fog lights • Impeller cast aluminum wheels • Restyled saddlebags with One-Touch latch • Low-profile front fender • Improved instrument graphics • New intuitive hand controls • Available Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS

Street Glide®

• High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain • Hydraulic clutch • Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system • Jukebox media compartment with USB • New Batwing fairing with splitstream vent • Stiffer 49mm forks • Dual Halogen headlamp • Enforcer cast aluminum wheels • Restyled saddlebags with One-Touch latch • One-Touch fuel door •Low-profile front fender • Larger gauges with improved graphics • New intuitive hand controls • Available Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS

Street Glide® Special

• High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain • Hydraulic clutch • Boom! Box 6.5GT infotainment system • Jukebox media compartment with USB • New Batwing fairing with splitstream vent • Gloss Black inner fairing and color-match fairing skirt • Stiffer 49mm forks • Premium Ride Hand-Adjustable Low Rear Shocks • Dual Halogen headlamp • Enforcer cast aluminum wheels • Restyled saddlebags with One-Touch latch • One-Touch fuel door • Low-profile front fender • Larger gauges with improved graphics • New intuitive hand controls • Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS

Electra Glide® Ultra Classic®

• High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain • Hydraulic clutch • Boom! Box 4.3 infotainment system • Jukebox media compartment with USB • New Batwing fairing with splitstream vent • Stiffer 49mm forks • Daymaker LED headlamp and fog lamps • LED rear lighting on Tour-Pak • Impeller cast aluminum wheels • Restyled Tour-Pak with One-Touch latch • Restyled saddlebags with One-Touch latch • One-Touch fuel door • Low-profile front fender • Larger gauges with improved graphics • New intuitive hand controls • Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS

Ultra Limited

• Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain • Hydraulic clutch • Stiffer 49mm forks • Boom! Box 6.5 infotainment system • Jukebox media compartment with USB • New Batwing fairing with splitstream vent • Gloss Black inner fairing • Daymaker LED headlamp and fog lamps • LED rear lighting on Tour-Pak • Contrast Chrome Impeller cast aluminum wheels • Restyled Tour-Pak with One-Touch latch • Restyled saddlebags with One-Touch latch • One-Touch fuel door • Low-profile front fender • Larger gauges with improved graphics • New intuitive hand controls • Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS

Tri Glide® Ultra

• Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain • Hydraulic Assist & Slip clutch • Boom! Box 6.5 infotainment system • Jukebox media compartment with USB • New Batwing fairing with splitstream vent • Stiffer 49mm forks • Daymaker LED headlamp and fog lamps • LED rear lighting on Tour-Pak • Restyled Tour-Pak with One-Touch latch • One-Touch fuel door • Low-profile front fender • Larger gauges with improved graphics • New intuitive hand controls • Linked Braking system • New rear brakes with 16 percent larger rotors • Foot-operated parking brake. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Unveils Its New Lineup Of 2014 Motorcycles’

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Harley-Davidson Project Rushmore. Tomorrow August 19, 2013

Published by Cyril Huze August 18th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.

All the redesigned 2014 Harleys have been dubbed “Rushmore Project”. Stay tuned for a full reveal here on Monday.

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An Indian Ride To Polaris Motorcycle Research Development Center And Assembly Line

Published by Cyril Huze August 18th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.

After watching the unveiling event and road testing the 3 new Indian Chief motorcycles in Sturgis, S.D., I spent this weekend in Minnesota at the invitation of Art Welch, co-owner of Indian Motorcycle of The Twin Cities in St Paul, MN. In Polaris home-state, he was the first official Indian Motorcycle dealer to offer demo rides of the 2014 models and invited me with a selected group of friends of the industry to ride on Friday August 16 to Polaris Research & Development center, then on Saturday August 17 to Polaris assembly line in Spirit Lake, Iowa where Indians production just got started 10 days ago.

During all weekend 12 sparkling new Chiefs – Classic, Vintage, Chieftain – attracted fans and prospective buyers, not only from Minnesota but also from neighboring states. Anyone with a valid motorcycle driver license could ride. Some already paid a deposit sight-unseen and got a chance to ride it, with others bringing new deposits for a delivery in about 2 weeks, now knowing precisely which model and color scheme they prefer. 10 members of the St Paul police department riding their Harleys also showed up to road test each of the new 3 models. All told me that they were nicely surprised by their power and handling…

Last Friday, Art Welch, Mike Tomas from Kiwi Indian and myself straddling a black Chief Classic led a group of privileged 10 bikers riding Indians of all generations to a 50 minutes ride to the 700 acres Polaris Research & Development Center in Wyoming, Minnesota. The facility has doubled in size during these last 3 years and includes off-road testing and a close to 1 mile long road track. Although photography is of course strictly limited, we were treated to a slide presentation of the evaluation and testing procedures used for the conception of the all-new Chiefs.

A presentation organized by Indian Motorcycle Product Director Gary Gray and his crew to demonstrate to us that Polaris Industries is fully dedicated to retain the truly iconic characteristics of the brand and combine those elements with advanced technologies to deliver a new Indian Motorcycle offering exceptional performance and truly unsurpassed reliability. As Polaris Industries Vice President of Motorcycles Steve Menneto stated during the Sturgis launch, “We understand that we are the caretakers of one of America’s most storied and legendary brands and we’ve worked tirelessly.” For Example.

The new Thunder Stroke 111″ (119 ft./lb) 49-degree V-twin, air-cooled with integrated oil cooler, left-side air intake engine has been extensively tested, refined and proven by one of the industry’s most rigorous development and testing programs, accumulating over 2 million miles of testing with 1.5 billion crankshaft turns equivalent to circling the world over 40 times. , including state-of-the-art dyno testing, and hundreds of thousands of miles of on-road testing. It is currently built in Osceola, Wisconsin at the Polaris Engine Assembly Plant. Frame went through a Vehicle Simulator for the equivalent of 200,000 miles in 15 says, then through a Dynamic Shaker for the equivalent of 200,000 miles in 1 day. Sound development for exhaust tone went through multiple iterations of tuning to perfect the Indian exhaust sound while still respecting global emissions in the US and multiple countries. Continue reading ‘An Indian Ride To Polaris Motorcycle Research Development Center And Assembly Line’

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2013-2014 Progressive International Motorcycle Shows

Published by Cyril Huze August 18th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

From New York to California, the 12-city nationwide tour of the Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® offers an all access pass to view the new 2014 models and hundreds of the hottest street bikes, dirt bikes, cruisers, UTVs and ATVs for both new and experienced riders. From the latest gear and aftermarket accessories to informative seminars and interactive entertainment, this event one of the very interesting places to experience the latest in the world of motorcycling. This motorcycle extravaganza will also feature live music; the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show featuring hundreds of the hottest custom motorcycles dripping in eye-popping chrome, wild paint jobs and dazzling rims; the return of The Podium that will host motorcycle racers, celebrities, DIY seminars; and much, much more. More info: call 800/331-5706 or visit Progressive Motorcycle Shows. Full schedule after the jump. Continue reading ‘2013-2014 Progressive International Motorcycle Shows’

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IK Works Kicker Pedals

Published by Cyril Huze August 17th, 2013 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.

Japanese shop IK Works manufactures in very limited number some very cool parts for Root Choppers and Narrow Lane Splitters. Among them, these kicker pedals with a very industrial appearance and whose surface will provide a sure grip to your shoes. Cast Iron Steel or Cast Aluminum Steel. Because it’s a little bit difficult to order directly from Takashi at IK Works in Japan, you can place your order with big distributor W&W Cycles shipping worldwide.

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Monsters Of The Salt. Documentary Trailer.

Published by Cyril Huze August 17th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial, Events and Videos.

In 1967, a pioneering African-American drag racer named Nira Johnson set a land-speed record on his Triumph Bonneville. Without realizing it, Nira inspired a life-long love of American hot rod culture in two French guys: Denis Sire, an artist who used Nira as the basis for a comic book hero; and Laurent Romuald, the top motorcycle restorer in Paris, who built a replica of the comic book hero’s motorcycle.

Now, motorcycle journalist Mark Gardiner has teamed up with Airspeed Productions and director Kevin Ward to turn this heartwarming pro-American and pro-motorcycle story into a feature length documentary film, titled Monsters of the Salt. “I’ve been writing about motorcycles for over 20 years,” says Gardiner. “In that time, I’ve told a few stories that made people say, ‘That should be a movie’. This is the first time I’ve done anything about it.”

Gardiner is working with a veteran producer, Tom Guttry, and his company Airspeed Productions. They’ve also recruited renowned commercial director Kevin Ward (he was the director of photography on Dust to Glory.)

The hero of this heartwarming pro-American and pro-motorcycle story is over 80. You can help bringing his story to a wider audience, while he’s still around to enjoy it. Make a contribution — even if it’s just a dollar — to their crowd funding campaign here by going to Donate Monsters.

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CMT Bike Week. 10 Hours Of Bike Themed TV Programming About the 2013 Sturgis Rally.

Published by Cyril Huze August 17th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.

CMT brings the annual motorcycle rally to television with 10 hours of programming premiering every night at 8 p.m. ET/PT Sunday August 18 through Saturday August 24. Filmed at the Buffalo Chip, CMT Bike Week will give viewers an in depth and behind the scenes look into the music, culture and camaraderie that make up the Sturgis Rally.

Throughout the week, CMT will premiere four all-new specials including “Tunnel Of Fire”, “Biker Battles” and Kid Rock. “Live from the Buffalo Chip”, the 30-minute specie; “Doomsday Garage” as well as full-episode sneak previews of 2 upcoming CMT series: “Orange County Choppers” and “Tattoo Titans”, and all-new episodes go “Hillbillies For Hire”, “Hot 20 Countdown” and “Dog And Beth On The Hunt”.

CMT is a unit of Viacom Inc., a leading television and digital authority on country music and entertainment reaching more than 92 million homes. The network’s digital platforms include the 24-hour music channel, CMT Pure Country, CMT Mobile and CMT VOD.

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Postcards From Bonneville 65th Anniversary Speed Week

Published by Cyril Huze August 16th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.

The Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) is the sanctioning Body for the land speed racing meets at Bonneville Salt Flats and later on the calendar El Mirage and Muroc. In Bonneville, since last August 10th until this Friday morning August 16th, a total of 500 vehicles on 2, 3 and 4 wheels are racing for land speed records. The fastest trials on this planet with speeds in excess of 400 mph, with a large amount of Lakesters and Hot Rods and about 150 to 200 motorcycle riders straddling the strangest 2 and 3-weelers.

Speed Week in Bonneville is where Jay Allen “relaxes” in the saddle of his S&S-powered racer, where you can watch Shinya Kimura running his rolling pieces of art or watch Al Lamb of Dallas Honda, currently the fastest man on a sit-on motorcyle try to improve his own 260+ mph land speed record. For the first time this tear, the SCTA www.SCTA-BNI.org provides a live stream showing you pictures of the machines and their race results. Continue reading ‘Postcards From Bonneville 65th Anniversary Speed Week’

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Spectro Oils Embraces Its Roots As A Penton Film Sponsor

Published by Cyril Huze August 16th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.

The John Penton Story is a feature length documentary about off-road motorcycle pioneer and industry icon, John Penton and his family. It will be narrated by Grammy Winner, Lyle Lovett and feature over 100 interviews of the largest cast of motorcycle legends ever assembled on film. The film’s production was funded through the innovative “crowd funding” website Kickstarter.com and is set to release in Spring of 2014. Sponsorships are available.

When John Penton was looking for innovative, high-quality manufacturers for his “Hi-Point” line of premium off-road motorcycle accessories, he looked no further than Intercontinental Lubricants Corp., (ILC) in Brookfield, CT for his oil and lubricant products. ILC is the parent company of Spectro Oils of America, which is found in leading motorcycle dealerships and accessory retailers worldwide. Spectro Oils is supporting the new Penton film, now in production, as a sponsor and promotional partner.

Over 40 years ago, John Penton discovered a unique synthetic lubricant product that Spectro had developed and began to market it under the “Hi-Point” brand that included apparel, parts, tires and more – all developed for the off-road motorcycle racer and enthusiast. Mr. Penton knew that Spectro’s superior quality and performance was just what he was looking for to package as a Hi-Point product. Spectro Oils packaged various products as Hi-Point including synthetic blends for two- and four-stroke engines, two-stroke injector, gear lube, fork oils, chain lube and filter fluid. “Spectro is proud to be part of this historical film for not only the motorcycle industry, but for our own company as well,” said President David Miller. “John Penton is an American motorcycle legend and icon who helped many companies, like ours, find success in the motorcycle industry.” Continue reading ‘Spectro Oils Embraces Its Roots As A Penton Film Sponsor’

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