With online and social media fueling the conversation in the entire motorcycle world, the new Indian Motorcycle’s future is surely the most discussed topic of 2013. Although the brand new 2014 Chief model will not be unveiled until Sturgis Bike Week (August 3rd to 11th), your online comments in my daily magazine, Facebook and Twitter pages show that the teaser launch campaign has been extremely successful: unveiling of engine sound, features and pictures, then of Chief’s silhouette and price have all been exciting news for Indian’s fans and turned most remaining skeptics into supporters. Barring a major disappointment at unveiling, something highly improbable, I can now say that the Indian Motorcycle brand was already re-born when Polaris bought it 2 years ago. But what does its future look like?
Recently, Steve Menneto, Vice President Of Motorcycles at Polaris Industries stated that to break even, the company just needs to capture 4 to 5% of the US heavy weight cruiser market (primary competitor Harley-Davidson is the leader in the US with a 57% market share.) Menneto didn’t mention how long he thinks it would take, but it is reasonable to think, as I do, that Indian Motorcycle’s objective could be reached in the US in 2 to 3 years or maybe less…
Although the main focus of this summer’s Indian launch is the US, let’s not forget that Polaris’ expansion strategy is international. Indian is a new immediately available asset for Polaris to sell more of its heavy weight motorcycles around the world. These 4 to 5% in the US could lead very fast to many more Indians sold in several countries. I don’t know of any new or of “re-born” motorcycle brands ever launched domestically and abroad simultaneously or close to it. Polaris is in the unique position to be able to do both with Indian in one year or less. Not only because of Indian’s international brand appeal, but also because Polaris being the global leader in off-road/adventure vehicles, has already in place an international structure that could be used, if necessary, to sell Indian motorcycles in foreign markets. Unnoticed by many, including members of the press, there is an Indian Motorcycle official web page (just look at the screenshot above) where Indian says it clear: “We Are Coming… in Brazil, New Zealand, Australia, India, China, etc… Continue reading ‘The New Indian Motorcycle’s Rumble Is Sweet Music For Bikers Around The World’
The new Compact Battery Tender (P/N 66000038, $39.95) from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Accessories® is stated to be superior to a traditional “trickle charger” because its circuitry cycles the charger on and off as needed and never over-charges the battery.
The 750mA charger includes a quick-disconnect output lead and 7.5 Amp fused charging harnesses equipped with ring connectors and alligator clips.
The charger is backed by a five-year manufacturer’s warranty. More info at Harley-Davidson’s Website
For those who don’t know, Star Motorcycles is a division of Yamaha Motor Corporation, and the brand name under which the company sells their cruiser motorcycles in the USA. Strategy is always to mimic the classic American V-Twin cruiser but at much lower prices. The Stryker gets a 1340 cc 80″ liquid cooled EFI V-Twin engine coupled to a 5-speed transmission with belt final drive. The bike rolls on a 21″ front and a 210 mm rear tire. Except this, a lot of cheap bling for a retail price of $11,690. Available in August in ImpactBblue, Candy Red AND, Matte Grey.
Garage Leathers forte is solo bags. Solo bags hand made in heavy weight leather and using 1900’s construction techniques. For your Softail, Rigid, Dyna, Sportster and of course custom built bike.
Individual components of the bag are cut using a die and hydraulic press then secured in a jig and are stitched by American workers using American-made thread. Latches are hot-forged, one of the oldest known metalworking processes. This method was selected because it delivers metal that is stronger than cast or machined metal parts.
The Garage Leathers’ latch is load tested at 3,000 lbs. It is then brass or nickel-plated, which provides an antique-style finish and complements the warm tone of the black or brown leather. Check out the style and models offered by visiting Garage Leathers.
Tomorrow Thursday afternoon I am flying to La Crosse, WI to participate to S&S Cycle 55th anniversary celebration to be held at the Oktoberfest Grounds on Friday, June 21st and Saturday 22nd, 2013.
Today June 19, the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) is on Capitol Hill to talk about the dangers of E15 for use in motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. The objective of the “Fuel for Thought” lobbying day is to help educate lawmakers about the need to research the possible harmful effects of E15 fuel on motorcycles. The Fuels America Coalition qualifies this rally as an absurdity since E15 is not approved for use in motorcycles and because E15 pumps are clearly labeled to prevent missfueling. The group states that E10 has been used in motorcycles for years, without problems, and helps reduce knock, a frequent problem with motorcycles..
AMA participants are also expected to ask lawmakers to support H.R. 875, a bill introduced by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, R-Wis., which calls for additional scientific and technical research on the use of mid-level ethanol blends. The AMA wants the research to include the effects on motorcycles and ATVs.
What’s In The Barn is a TV Series on Velocity Channel about vintage motorcycles starring Dale Walksler. The show is taking viewers inside the barns and backyards of America on the hunt for exceptional, classic motorcycles. Host Dale Walksler lends his expert eye (Dale is curator of the Wheels Through Time museum) and his enthusiasm for automotive Americana as he searches sheds, barns, storehouses and hangers across the U.S. for vintage motorcycles. Dale knows that what might appear to be yesterday’s junk can be brought back to life as today’s automotive treasures.
In the debut episode, Dale and his son Matt get a vague tip from a museum visitor who claims he saw a rare peashooter motorcycle at an army surplus warehouse a few miles from Wheels Through Time. Dale can’t imagine how an antique motorcycle could find its way into a building that’s rumored to hold 500,000 grenade canisters. What he also doesn’t know is that this simple 10 mile drive will detour him all the way to rural Pennsylvania and New Jersey. There he will be tempted to purchase two of the largest collections of new and used motorcycle parts in the United States. Continue reading ‘What’s In The Barn. The New TV Series Premieres Tonight Tuesday, June 18 at 10.30 PM ET/PT’
Azzkikr Specialty specializes in Bagger parts and extends its line of custom accessories to match the most popular current designs in chrome, all black or contrast cut (black & polished.)
These pieces, saddlebag latches and brake pedals, are one-piece designs with rubber inserts for comfort and grip. Latch covers fit all stock Harley-Davidson saddlebag hardware. Sold as pair MSRP $249.99. Brake Pedal MSRP $102.99. Asskikr Specialty Bagger Parts.
On May 21st, I announced that that OCC and Paul Teutul Sr. will be soon back on TV with a new sees on CMT. If the producer find the right new partner for Sr… A casting was launched by producer Pilgrim Studios to find the right cast mate able to run OCC’s shop and participate to the TV non-reality drama to help Senior practice his antics.
Well, the casting is still going on because the right candidate, who must know about custom motorcycles, be fun and be able to withstand Senior angry bursts has not be found. So, you can still apply for this paid position that for sure will make you famous and launch or maybe destroy your career in the motorcycle industry. Your application with photo, resume and reason why you think you wll be the right case mate must be sent to getajobatocc@gmail.com.
Shooting of the 8-episode series will start at the end of summer at OCC’s NY state headquarters.
Speedway. The next generation Rider Comfort (RCS) line delivers a three-part solution to the varying conditions women might encounter this riding season. It starts with the Speedway RCS Base Layer with Mesh Panels (P/N 97378-13VW, starting at $65), which features 100 percent polyester pique with embedded Cocona® Natural Technology™ for enhanced breathability and odor resistance. The Speedway RCS Windproof Soft Shell Jacket (P/N 97377-13VW, starting at $160) is a windproof mid-layer also featuring Cocona Technology, plus a mock neck with removable hood and extended cuffs with thumb holes. As an outer layer, the Speedway RCS Mesh Jacket (P/N 97376-13VW, starting at $175) provides allover mesh construction with pre-curved sleeves, body armor pockets and 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material. Each item is available in XS – 3W sizes.
Finish Line. The new women’s Finish Line Perforated Leather Jacket (P/N 97164-13VW, starting at $375) from the Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® line combines perforated leather panels on the sleeves and body with midweight vintage cowhide leather construction for maximum airflow and resistance to abrasion. Bolstering the comfort factor are features like pre-curved sleeves and the action back, while four zippered pockets provide ample storage options. Pockets at the elbows and sleeves accept accessory body armor for increased protection. Available in S – 3W sizes. Both lines at most Harley-Davidson dealers.
I have featured a couple of times “Tribute To Hagakure”, its fabrication by Laurent Dutruel, then the tentative Land Speed Record in Bonneville (000 A-PG class, less than 1000 cc) ending up with runs at the speed of 129.2 mph (208 km/h) on a bike without any suspension and no gearbox! 2 Years to built it for a few runs on the Salts of Utah, then 1 year later a second place in the 2013 AMD World Championship Of Bike Building. To go from the race track to the bike shows and not the opposite is quite an unusual itinerary for a professional custom builder. Good enough for a 3rd feature, this time emphasizing Hagakure aesthetic qualities. Continue reading ‘Tribute To Hagakure. 2nd Place 2013 World Championship Of Bike Building.’
No other Harley model than the Sportster let you easily transform your bike into a modern Cafe Racer. One of the key parts to help you make the transition is the seat. So, Biltwell released a slim version of what the Ton Ups were using in the 60’s and 70’s. It will only fit stock 1986 to 2003 Harley-Davidson Sportsters with Original Equipment rear fenders, not with other model years or motorcycle brands or custom motorcycles.
Hand-sewn heavy-duty black vinyl cover is available in checkerboard or horizontal tuck ‘n roll pattern. Pan is vacuum-formed ABS plastic with molded polyurethane foam padding tappering from 2.5″ in the rear to 1.5″ where it joins the gas tank. Mounting is done via laser-cut steel brackets on nose and tail. Rear seat acorn nut, fender washer and 5/16-18 hex bolt for mounting are included (you will need to drill one hole into the fender for final installation or you can’t use this seat.) MSRP: $$174.95. Biltwell Inc.
Because tomorrow is Father’s Day, I thought it would be appropriate to run this video produced by Robert Pandya. Robert is in charge of Indian Motorcycle public relations and frequently comments in my website to answer your questions. He had a chance to ride with his Dad, Dr. Kirit K. Pandya (An Indian from India) for a scenic trip from San Francisco to Los angeles on a Victory Kingpin equipped with a Motorvision Spyder sidecar.
Father and son together for a wonderful memory to last a lifetime. Tomorrow, pay tribute to your father or father figure for the contribution he makes to your life. And if you ever get a chance to ride with your Dad, don’t postpone. Do it now.
The original Daytona Rossmeyer Harley-Davidson store at 290 North Beach Street that was turned into a museum after the passing of Bruce Rossmeyer in 2009 in a motorcycle accident is going to close its doors and be moved at the end of 2014 to Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach where it will occupy the second floor. In addition a new Harley-Davidson store is going to open in a renovated space at 510 Main Street, and will mainly feature tee-shirts, other clothing, coffee mugs and shot glasses, and will be open about five or six days a week. (Rossmeyer had a rented space in another Main Street building until late last year.)
The museum features Bruce’s personal collection of motorcycles, a 1914 and 1916 Harley models, a striking 1964 FLH, a Wyatt Fuller custom built (from Wyatt’s Razorback Engineering days), etc. It’s also the place where you can admire Jeff Decker’s “Elvis” sculpture, commissioned by Bruce and a collection of paintings by David Uhl, Scott Jacobs, Tom Fritz and others. In the museum people are also interested in seeing Bruce Rossmeyer’s original office from where he defined his strategy to expand from one store in Daytona to several dealerships in and out of Florida. Continue reading ‘Rossmeyer’s Harley-Davidson Museum Moving From Daytona Beach Street To Ormond Beach Destination Daytona’
Converting a late model belt driven Harley-Davidson® to a chain drive is being made by a lot of bikers for a wide range of reasons, a few being interested in a different final drive ratio, adding driveline strength, getting more driveline clearance for a wider tire or looking for the “old school” look.
During this week 110th Anniversary celebration in Rome, Italy Pope Francis was presented 2 Harleys and a leather jacket.
Great publicity for the Milwaukee manufacturer, but what the Pope is going to do with them?
I guess auctioning them fto benefit a catholic charity. Maybe the Vatican will send me a press release.
All week, Harley-Davidson is holding a series of events in Rome, culminating this Sunday with a blessing of about 1000 motorcycles during a ceremony at St. Peter’s Square. The entire length of Via Della Conciliazione, leading from St Peter’s Basilica to the River Tiber will be turned into a giant Harley-Davidson bike park.
Those looking for the hard core racer look may like these “industrial design” pegs made out of cast aluminum. Concession to modern times, they are chrome plated and probably somewhat slippery, but only tough bikers will apply to get a set. Hollow triple “1/s” on the face. Will install on most peg mounts. Made in Minneapolis by the boys at Speed Club Inc.
The Ass Kicker is a very clean replacement rear bagger fender featuring a perfectly smoothed out top and sides with stock side ridges completely eliminated.
This is a true replacement fender and utilizes your stock mounting hardware. The Ass Kicker mounts inside your struts exactly like your stock fender, so that you can use your stock seat backrest or docking hardware without needing additional spacers.
The Ass Kicker comes equipped with a radiused license plate holder with an integrated LED tag light that fits perfectly to the curve of the fender. Designed to be used with 4″ extended saddlebags on 09 and newer touring frames. 08 and down also available. At Pickard USA 972-231-1298
The life of factory racing mechanics is not an easy one. On every Sunday, factory motocross race motorcycles (worth well over 100 K) are torn down, cleaned and rebuilt. Watch Suzuki Factory mechanics Lee McCollum and Rene Zapata maintain James Stewart’s Suzuki RM-Z450.
Todd’s Cycle Closing California Shop. Opening Todd’s Cycles Hawaii. Don’t look anymore for Todd’s Cycles in Huntington Beach, California. Todd Silicato and family with custom bikes and tools are moving this month to even sunnier Kauai, Hawaii. Nothing has changed except a new zip code, a new logo, a currently updated website and Facebook page.
Canada Insurance Plans To Test Technology To Track How Fast And How Far Motorcycles Go. With an eye to calibrating insurance rates, Saskatchewan Government Insurance( Saskatchewana is a Canadian Province between Alberta and Manitoba)is testing the new technology to track how fast and how far motorycles go. A pilot program using volunteers is being set `to equip motorcycles with telematics technology, a gadget that will record speed, braking, mileage and location. “Usage-based insurance is the ultimate in rating fairness because it essentially lets the biker control their own insurance rate through their driving” the minister responsible Donna Harpauer, said in a news release. “Simply put, those who drive responsibly pay less and those who don’t pay more.” Uh-oh. Does this sound like Big Brother in action? Will this help ensure that bad drivers will pay higher rates? Should this technology be used on all vehicles or none? Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
I guess this feature is mainly for entertainment. I bet none of you is going to be convinced to buy this environmentally friendly, no saddle, no pedals ride by Flitz. It features a unique frame resembling the old style of hobby horse bikes dating back to the early 19th century and used at the time to speed up the walk doing errands. With this new version, you strap yourself, use the 5-point belt with the belt replacing the saddle and letting you adjust to your preferred riding position. Then you cycle/run. There will even be foot rests attached to the back forks so that the rider can rest your feet while coasting and/or going down hills. Still a prototype with the inventor stating that he his ready to go in “mass-producetion” and that he is about to revolutionize the way we ride. Not sure of this…
These new Fork-Mount Wind Deflectors (P/N 57400146 Touring, P/N 57400143 Softail®; $89.95) from Harley-Davidson® extend windshield coverage for superior protection in any weather.
Shaped to direct the rush of air and turbulence around the rider, the scooper deflectors attach to the fork brackets for a clean, integrated look. The chrome finish complements polished or chrome front end components.
The kit includes all required mounting hardware for easy installation and is available to fit many 1995-later Touring models (except those equipped with fairing lowers and some accessories) and many 1986-later FL Softail models. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details.
For their military operations US Special Operation Forces need a fast, near silent and easy to handle mean of transportation. For this purpose, Zero Motorcycles conceived an all electric off-road motorcycle currently being tested in real operation conditions. The 2013 MMX military motorcycle main features include: Continue reading ‘Soon A Stealth Motorcycle For US Special Forces’
For the first time ever in Sturgis Biker Pros is producing a standalone Ultimate Builder competition during the Sturgis Rally next to the Harley-Davidson pavilion mid-week on Wednesday, August 7, 2013.
The Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show presented by J&P Cycles matches some of the best custom bike builders in the country against one another as it tours the U.S. in conjunction with the International Motorcycle Shows.
Total pay out is $7,000 in cash prizes.
* Free Style $2500 for 1st place * Radical Bagger $1500 for 1st place * Modified Harley $1000 for 1st place * Retro Mod $1000 for 1st place * Modified Street $1000 for 1st place. Register your bike by jumping HERE.
A Jew and an Arab meet into a bakery. The Arab steals 3 pastries and puts them in his pocket. He says to the Jew, “See how good I am? The owner didn’t see anything!”
The Jew says to the Arab, “I am going to show you there is nobody better than a Jew.” He goes to the owner and says, “Give me a pastry and I will show you a magic trick.”
Intrigued, the owner accepts and give him a pastry. The Jew swallows it and ask for another one. The owner gives him another one. Then the Jew asks for another one and swallows it. The owner is starting to wonder what the magic trick is and says, “What is the trick, Where are the pastries?” The Jew answers, “Look in the Arab’s pocket.”
With online and social media fueling the conversation in the entire motorcycle world, the new Indian Motorcycle’s future is surely the most discussed topic of 2013. Although the brand new 2014 Chief model will not be unveiled until Sturgis Bike Week (August 3rd to 11th), your online comments in my daily magazine, Facebook and Twitter pages show that the teaser launch campaign has been extremely successful: unveiling of engine sound, features and pictures, then of Chief’s silhouette and price have all been exciting news for Indian’s fans and turned most remaining skeptics into supporters. Barring a major disappointment at unveiling, something highly improbable, I can now say that the Indian Motorcycle brand was already re-born when Polaris bought it 2 years ago. But what does its future look like?
Although the main focus of this summer’s Indian launch is the US, let’s not forget that Polaris’ expansion strategy is international. Indian is a new immediately available asset for Polaris to sell more of its heavy weight motorcycles around the world. These 4 to 5% in the US could lead very fast to many more Indians sold in several countries. I don’t know of any new or of “re-born” motorcycle brands ever launched domestically and abroad simultaneously or close to it. Polaris is in the unique position to be able to do both with Indian in one year or less. Not only because of Indian’s international brand appeal, but also because Polaris being the global leader in off-road/adventure vehicles, has already in place an international structure that could be used, if necessary, to sell Indian motorcycles in foreign markets. Unnoticed by many, including members of the press, there is an Indian Motorcycle official web page (just look at the screenshot above) where Indian says it clear: “We Are Coming… in Brazil, New Zealand, Australia, India, China, etc… Continue reading ‘The New Indian Motorcycle’s Rumble Is Sweet Music For Bikers Around The World’
