A man appeared before St. Peter at the Pearly Gates. “Have you ever done anything of particular merit?” St. Peter asked. “Well, I can think of one thing,” the man offered. “On a trip to the Big Horn Mountains out in Wyoming I came upon a biker club who were threatening a young woman. I directed them to leave her alone, but they wouldn’t listen to me. So, I approached the largest and most tattooed biker and smacked him in the face, kicked his motorcycle over, ripped out his nose ring, and threw it on the ground. I yelled, ‘Now, back off or I’ll kick the crap out of all of you!’ ” St. Peter was impressed, “When did this happen?” He replied “Couple of minutes ago…”
Archive Page 185
In more than 20 years that I have known Fred Kodlin, I never saw him running amok, mad with uncontrollable rage. But living and working on 2 different continents I don’t see him every day. Will have to check on him again when I travel at the end of March to his native Germany to cover The Custom Chrome Europe Show… Seriously, Fred is running Amok, his new creation built in a style that is so much the Kodlin style, this time with an added racing touch.
First, don’t be confused. No, it’s not a Softail type frame. Look attentively and you will realize that although Amok is powered by a modern Harley-Davidson Twin Cam A engine (103″, 94 HP) what you could take for a swingarm is just a strong part belonging to the custom rigid frame. Ride is given some smoothness via an air shock under the solo seat. A chassis with an aggressive stance due to the backbone sharp drop from the rear of the gas tank to the fake swingarm and to the use of a pair of ultra minimalistic fenders whose purpose is of course only aesthetic. Continue reading ‘Fred Kodlin Is Running Amok’
Breaking News. Indian Motorcycle Just Unveiled The Thunder Stroke 111 To Power The 2014 New Indian Line Up.
Published by March 9th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial, Engines and Events.
A much larger crowd than usual on Daytona Main Street. All bikers gathering in & around the Dirty Harry’s bar for the very exciting unveiling of the new Indian Motorcycle engine to power the upcoming line up. And I must say, for me, my fellow media members and the public present at this event a terrific surprise. I must say that the Indian team succeeds way beyond my expectations in honoring the past to power the future. The all-new 111-Cubic Inch V-Twin Power Plant Unifies Iconic Past and Advanced Engineering and is another critical milestone in the company’s drive towards a full launch later this year.
It is quite remarkable that this Thunder Stroke 111 is born less than 2 years (April 2011) after the acquisition of Indian Motorcycle by Polaris Industries. It demonstrates the unprecedented commitment of time, resources and passion that Polaris has put into the design this the all-new power plant. The goal was to capture the iconic design and styling aspects of the 112-year old brand’s most historic models and fuse that heritage with state-of-the-art technology and progressive design elements. The new design reflects an unparalleled investment into researching the complete history of Indian Motorcycle power train development, including the review of volumes of historical documentation, miles of riding vintage motorcycles, and studying and dissecting a broad array of legendary Indian Motorcycle models.
The Thunder Stroke 111 engine features 111 cubic inch displacement and delivers the raw power and iconic styling that have long been hallmarks of the legendary Indian Motorcycle brand. Delivering more than 115 ft-lbs of torque, the 49-degree V-Twin engine imarks the first clean-sheet Indian Motorcycle engine design in seven decades. With parallel pushrod tubes, finned heads, down firing exhausts, left side air intake, and the proportions and layout familiar to Indian Motorcycle fans around the world. The 1948 Indian Chief was an inspiration for designers. Industrial Design clay model turns drawings into 3-D. and Computer Aided Drafting and stress analysis was extensively used before production testing starts. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. Indian Motorcycle Just Unveiled The Thunder Stroke 111 To Power The 2014 New Indian Line Up.’
Tonight The Night. Indian Motorcycle To Reveal Its New Engine At 9.30 ET.
Published by March 9th, 2013 in Engines and Events.
It’s the huge story of the 2013 Daytona Bike Week and probably of the year. Those of you attending the Florida Rally will be able to see the introduction of the Indian Motorcycle new engine this evening March9, 2013 at 9:30pm ET at Dirty Harry’s on Main Street.
I will be on location and as soon as revealed I will post pictures and specs of the all-new Indian engine that will power the upcoming line-up.
I spend some time today with the Indian Team but no disclosure until 9.31 pm ET. Stay tuned… (from left to right: Robert Pandya, PR Indian Motorcycle. Cyril Huze. Nicole Pomerleau, Media Director at Indian Ad Agency Colle+McVoy. Rod Krois, Indian Motorcycle Director Of Marketing)
2013 Daytona Bike Week Bike Shows
Published by March 9th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
There may be other shows outside Daytona, Some in Deland & Orlando. These 4 are the most attended by the public and show bike owners and builders.
1- Official Harley-Davidson Show. Wednesday March 13. The Motor Company has partnered with American Iron Magazine and Motorcycle Bagger for this bike competition that will take place on Beach Street Wednesday, March 13. Registration will be from 9:00 a.m. to noon with a $10 donation going to MDA. Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded at 4 p.m. in 11 classes with five Editors’ Pick winners
2- Willie’s Tropical Tattoo Chopper Time Event. Thursday March 14. Now a Daytona tradition, more than a bike show, a must stop by to meet with your friends that you could not find in Daytona. Yes, they will be there. Competitors arrive with their bikes between 10 & 11 am, and visitors park across for free across the street. The only bike show/competition where you can leave with a new tattoo (you need to reserve your spot) Trophies around 4 pm. Willie’s Tropical Tattoo. 825 S Yonge St (US1) in Ormond Beach, FL 32174. (386) 672-1888. Continue reading ‘2013 Daytona Bike Week Bike Shows’
Breaking News From Daytona. World-Debut Of New Harley-Davidson Breakout Model.
Published by March 8th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
This Friday morning March 8, 2013 in Daytona, Harley-Davidson debuted its new Breakout model. For all those present in Daytona, the bike will be displayed at 415 Main Street tonight from 5 to 8 pm in the parking area next to Mikey Luv’s Bar & Grill To learn all about the new motorcycle company executives will be available.
Harley-Davidson describes it as “an urban prowler, a bike ready for a midnight ramble to the roadhouse or a rib joint rendezvous with the crew. Green light? Crack the throttle to deliver a muscular dose of American V-Twin torque and etch the asphalt with a fat rear tire.”
The Breakout is presented as a premium model in its segment with distinctive finishes and specific components not available on other Harley-Davidson bikes. Long and low-slung, the Breakout features a 240mm rear tire visually balanced with thick forks and chopped fenders, while a shaved tank console and a drag handlebar keep the profile low. A Twin Cam 103B™ powertrain and other components are trimmed in gleaming chrome and gloss-black paint.
Like the acclaimed 2013 Custom Vehicle.
“With Breakout we got down to motorcycle essentials, which means emphasizing the powertrain and the wheels,” says Harley-Davidson Styling Manager Kirk Rasmussen. “The black and chrome engine visually pops out of the center the bike, and then to maximize the impact of the tires, the fenders are chopped. We wanted a lot of rubber showing to give the Breakout a tough, muscular look.”
The Gasser wheels are new and specific to the Breakout, according to Rasmussen. “We’ve always loved the gasser-style drag racing wheels from the 1960s and ‘70s,” says Rasmussen. “Our wheels are loosely inspired by those classics. Each wheel has 10 half-round spokes. The gloss-black powdercoat is machined away on alternating spokes and the rim edge to expose the aluminum under the paint.” A gloss-black finish is also applied to the new cast aluminum oil tank, as well as fork lowers, brake rotors, muffler shields and the handlebar.
“To lower Breakout’s overall profile, we placed the speedometer on the handlebar riser,” says Rasmussen, “and topped the fuel tank with a black leather strip that covers the seam, and a chrome-plated pod that’s just high enough to conceal necessary wiring and vent lines. The handlebar is a new curved drag bend that which I think feels aggressive when you ride.”
The Softail® chassis mimics the clean lines of a vintage hardtail frame, but utilizes rear suspension control provided by coil-over shock absorbers mounted horizontally and out of sight within the frame rails. The Breakout is available with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) and the Harley-Davidson security system as a factory-installed option. Continue reading ‘Breaking News From Daytona. World-Debut Of New Harley-Davidson Breakout Model.’
Breaking News. Is Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. About To Lose All Its Sturgis Trademarks In 30 Days?
Published by March 8th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
Opponents to Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. (SMRI) holding several Sturgis and Black Hills trademarks regarding the Sturgis Rally just got very good news for their cause. Late on Wednesday evening March 6, 2013, John Simko, United States Judge Magistrate, released a “Report & Recommendation” stating the facts in the case on which a Federal Judge will be ruling on in about 30 days
I am not an attorney, but reading attentively for you the long Magistrate “Report & Recommendation”, it is clear that the Magistrate is throwing out almost all what SMRI had claimed in the past regarding how the trademarks were justified, claimed and obtained. The possibility of fraud(s) committed by SMRI and its members through lies and conceal of information to obtain several Sturgis trademarks from the Patent & Trademark Office (PTO) is even mentioned by the Magistrate and could be decided by a jury.
SMRI has 14 business days (deadline is March 25th) to appeal Magistrate Judge John Simko “Report & Recommendation” for judgment. If the judge in the next 30 days rules against SMRI, no one is going to need to pay a fee to make and sell a Sturgis Rally prodct with “Sturgis” & “Black Hills” on it. The city of Sturgis will no more have to pay for the use of their city name (about $25,000 this year.) If SMRI trademarks would be cancelled, SMRI would be vulnerable to a wave of lawsuits by all those companies who consider themselves damaged by SMRI actions and practices.
I know by your comments on former reports I published on the “SMRI and Opponents Trademarks Battle” that most of you support the fight to keep the words “Sturgis” and “Black Hills” free for all to use. So, if you have time, I recommend that you read the Magistrate “Report & Recommendation” that I obtained. You will learn a lot about the Black Hills/Sturgis history and it’s also a good example of the American justice system at work. To follow…Recommendation & Recommendation Bis
Harley-Davidson Daytona Bike Week Raffle
Published by March 8th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
To benefit the Motorcycle Dystrophy Association (MDA), Harley-Davidson has built a beefed up, heavily customized Electra Glide bike(not this one) as the main prize for the Daytona Bike Week raffle HD states that the combined value of the accessories to be installed on the Electra Glide bike is around $13,000 (while the estimated market price of the prize will exceed $31,000 (€23,245). Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Daytona Bike Week Raffle’
2013 Daytona Bike Week. Events At Rossmeyer’s Harley-Davidson
Published by March 8th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
MARCH 8 – 17: Hundreds of vendors, food, live entertainment daily in front of Saints & Sinners Pub, 1635 N US 1, Ormond Beach. MARCH 12: Women’s MDA Ride – 10AM – Departing from Riverfront Park, owntown Daytona (In front of Museum Store at Daytona Harley-Davidson) Arriving at Destination Daytona, 1635 N US 1, Ormond Beach. March 12: NASCAR Legend Donnie Allison appearing 11AM – Noon, 4PM – 5PM – New Smyrna Harley-Davidson, 1899 State Rd. 44, New Smyrna. March 13 – NASCAR Legend Donnie Allison appearing 11AM – Noon, 4PM – 5PM – . Daytona Harley-Davidson, 290 N Beach St., Daytona. March 15 – “Baddest Bagger Daytona” Show – Destination Daytona Pavilion – All Day! 1635 N US 1, Ormond Beach. March 16 – Shooter Jennings in Concert – FREE – with special guests, 6PM – Destination Daytona Pavilion. 1635 N US 1, Ormond Beach
Harley-Davidson Expands Its Custom Seat Program For Sportsters And Is Launching New Parts.
Published by March 7th, 2013 in Builders, Controls, Editorial, Engines and Seats.
Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Accessories® has expanded its popular Custom Seat Program to include two saddles for 2004-later Sportster models. Using the Custom Seat website a customer can create a seat in one of more than 1,300 design options, print out the seat design, and bring it to a participating Harley-Davidson dealer.
The dealer places the seat order, and it will arrive at the dealership in a few weeks. The program makes creation of a custom seat easy and predictable.
The Custom Seat Program for Sportster models includes the solo Brawler® ($399.95) and two-up Sidekick® ($499.95) seats, each covered in premium black cowhide.
Each seat can be customized with one of 13 stitch patterns executed in one of 10 thread colors. The pattern is created with contrasting inlay leather embossed with a snakeskin, alligator or ostrich texture, offered in a variety of colors.
With 1,300 combinations available, the only limit is the customer’s imagination. The new seat fitments are available for most 2004-later Sportster models. The existing program covers many Touring, Softail and Dyna models. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details or go to www.h-d.com/customseat.
Harley-Davidson also offers a Chizeled Handlebar in black or chrome with a classic Z-bar shape and cast bends for ease of internal wiring, a Sportster chrome engine stabilizer, and to celebrate its summer’s 110th Anniversary celebration 2 styles of flags
David Uhl’s 2013 Daytona Commemorative Painting
Published by March 7th, 2013 in Editorial and Painters.
Using archival black and white imagery of the amazing riders who wowed the crowds on Florida’s beaches in the ’20’s (image below), David Uhl is releasing a new masterpiece named ” Wing and a Prayer.”
As with his previous Daytona pieces dating back to 2005, signed and numbered canvas prints are now available for purchase at special Daytona Rally pricing through the end of Bike Week (March 17th). These Fine Art prints will come framed with a commemorative plaque and a Certificate of Authenticity. David will also include shipping within the contiguous 48 United States for orders placed within that timeframe.
Edition numbers will be assigned as orders are taken and matching numbers are available for those who are adding to their Daytona Series. For new collectors, these Daytona and Sturgis commemorative pieces are the perfect vehicle for getting into David’s work. The smaller pieces would normally be $1,250 PLUS shipping. And because of the immediate scarcity of these prints after the rally, they typically go up in value very quickly. Continue reading ‘David Uhl’s 2013 Daytona Commemorative Painting’
Lehman Trikes Just Released 2 New Models
Published by March 7th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Lehman Trikes USA, a trike industry leader for over 27 years, released their two latest trikes at the Dealer Expo. The two trikes are the newly re-designed Renegade LLS for Harley-Davidson models. and the Monarch II LLS for Honda. (LLS is an acronym for Limited Lean Suspension)
The new Lehman Trikes independent suspension features light-weight aluminum components, coupled with dual coil-over shocks, to provide a smooth and supple ride. Dual H-Arm suspension provides proper geometry for consistent handling and precise control. The optional Adjustable Lean Control allows the rider to choose their desired level of cornering performance. Both bodies have also been re-designed to accommodate the new suspension while maintaining the Lehman’s ever-popular seamless styling. Lehman Trikes or call 888-3WHEELS.
DP Custom Cycles Enlists 30,000 People To Design Its Next Custom Motorcycle.
Published by March 6th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
A very interesting and exciting experience for the Del Prado brothers (Justin and Jarrod) the partners of of Arizona-based DP Customs. They enlisted the 30,000 members of Local Motors, a local crowd-powered automotive design, manufacturing and technology group, to design a one-of-a-kind DP Customs bike. In this challenge, participants will submit motorcycle concepts based on the 2000-2003 Harley Davidson Sportster for the first DP Customs-brand cycle to be co-created on the Internet, and not designed by the Del Prado brothers themselves. The challenge launched Tuesday, March 5 and will continue through Sunday, March 31, 2013.
“We’re really excited to be working with Local Motors on this challenge,” said Jarrod Del Prado, co-owner of DP Custom Cycles. “We’ve been following Local Motors and its incredibly talented community for years, and we can’t wait to see what this amazing community will come up with.”
“We’re just two guys,” Justin Del Prado continues. “To have upwards of 30,000 people dive in to help us create our next signature bike, that’s pretty cool. We can’t wait to see how the world interprets our design style. Continue reading ‘DP Custom Cycles Enlists 30,000 People To Design Its Next Custom Motorcycle.’
Dakota Digital Is Introducing The Next Generation Of Analog/Digital Plug-In Bagger Gauges!
Published by March 6th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Named the MVX Series, these Bagger Gauges are offered with 2 bezel options, 4 background choices and 7 lighting colors to choose from, giving you the choice of multiple combinations fitting your taste.
With “Personalize”, your gauge appearance is set by programming the pointer, backlight, and LCD Message center colors independently. Whether installing a 6 gauge set, or building your perfect 2-8 gauge set from Dakota a la carte offerings, you will get all 7 gauge readings displayed in the Speedometer and Tachometer LCD readouts (Speed, RPM, Volts, Fuel, Oil Pressure, Oil Temp, and Air Temp), as well as Miles to Empty, and performance readouts (0-60 speed and time, and ¼ mile speed and time). Continue reading ‘Dakota Digital Is Introducing The Next Generation Of Analog/Digital Plug-In Bagger Gauges!’
Victory Motorcycles To Make Its Official Entry In India At end of 2013. India’s burgeoning motorcycle market has already attracted some of the most well-known names, be it Ducati, BMW Motorrad, Aprilia and Harley-Davidson. Victory motorcycles will initially be directly imported as CBUs from USA. with the Victory Vision and the Victory Cross Country Tour being the first models being introduced. The long-term plan, just like with Harley-Davidson, would include establishing an assembly plant in the country to bring down production costs. Victory currently has a host of international dealerships, including Australia, Canada, the UK, France, Sweden, Germany and Spain.
Steve Veltri Joins Mustang Seats. Long-time motorcycle industry sales and marketing executive Steve Veltri signed on with Mustang Motorcycle Products, LLC after a brief stint in the wholesale irrigation business. V-Twin dealers will recognize Steve from his time as the VP of Sales & Marketing for Custom Chrome for more than a decade, and it is this experience that makes him an ideal fit for Mustang. Veltri becomes Mustang’s Director of Sales, effective immediately. It’s Veltri’s work with a network of more than 5,000 Harley-Davidson® franchises and independent dealers around the world that solidified his opportunity with Mustang. After starting with CCI as a sales rep in 1991, Steve fast-tracked through the ranks, becoming a regional sales manager, national sales manager, VP of sales and ultimately VP of sales & marketing for the distribution company. All Mustang seats for Metric Cruisers and H-D® models are still handcrafted in the USA.
Harley-Davidson Inc. Will assemble 3 More Models In India And Cut Their Prices To Make Them More Affordable To The Country’s Price-Conscious Customers. The company will assemble the Fat Boy, the Fat Boy Special and Heritage Softail Classic models in India after importing kits from the U.S. The locally assembled models will cost between 1.5 million rupees ($27,342) and 1.7 million rupees, up to 23% cheaper than before. Harley already assembles half of the 12 models it sells in India at a facility at Bawal in the northern state of Haryana. The other models are imported as fully built units. Harley’s decision comes days after India decided to increase the import tax 75% from 60% on expensive motorcycles (at least 800 cc) and cars. Harley’s India head Anoop Prakash said the impact on higher taxes on its models will be “minimal” as the company is increasing motorcycle assembling in India. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
2013 Daytona Bike Week. Indian Motorcycle Activities.
Published by March 6th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
1- The All-New Indian Motorcycle Engine Reveal – Saturday, March 9, 9 p.m., Dirty Harry’s Pub, 705 Main St. The long-awaited, completely new Indian Motorcycle engine will make its debut to members of the press and motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world. A special unveiling event will be held on Saturday, March 9 at 9 p.m. EST at Dirty Harry’s Pub on Main Street in the heart of Daytona Beach. Special celebrity guest Mike Wolfe, host of HISTORY Channel’s “American Pickers” series and diehard Indian Motorcycle fan, will be on-hand to join the celebration. No tickets are required for this chance to take part in history, but a fully charged camera is highly recommended. Expect some surprises…
2- Courtesy of Indian Motorcycle: Daytona International Speedway “Indian Motorcycle Spring Dash” – Saturday, March 16. To commemorate the 65th anniversary of the dominating Daytona 200 beach race victory by Floyd Emde on a 1948 Indian Big Base Scout, Indian Motorcycle will be the title sponsor of the Daytona International Speedway Spring Dash on March 16, 2013. Floyd’s son Don also won the fabled Daytona 200, and in homage to his father’s tenacious flag-to-flag win on the original beach course Don built a tribute motorcycle to replicate the bike his father would have had on the starting line in 1948. This rare Big Base Scout will be at the Indian Motorcycle display at the Daytona Speedway and will lead the Spring Dash event on March 16 with Don Emde at the controls.
3- In the celebration of this legendary anniversary, Indian Motorcycle will give away chances to make every motorcyclist’s dream come true — an opportunity to ride their bike around the Speedway. Starting Wednesday, March 13, visit the Indian Motorcycle Store at 506 Main Street or the Indian Motorcycle display at Daytona Motor Speedway for more information and to enter for a chance to participate (1 pass per motorcycle is required / approximately 400 passes available). Continue reading ‘2013 Daytona Bike Week. Indian Motorcycle Activities.’
Street Fighter Quarter Fairing For Dual Light Harley-Davidson Dyna Models
Published by March 5th, 2013 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
Illusion Motorcycles is introducing a Street Fighter style quarter fairing for Dynas. Designed specifically for Dual Headlight models, this fairing provides a sleek sinister look while deflecting air flow from the bar area up. The fairing is precision fabricated for a straightforward installation using factory Harley-Davidson brackets.
Currently available exclusively from Illusion Motorcycles, it is offered “raw”, ready for your preparation and paint for just $260.00 or painted with brackets for $550.00. If you choose to order yours in the raw format, the high quality mounting brackets used by Illusion are readily available from any Harley Davidson dealer. And yes, other colors can be custom matched. For complete details call direct to 714-894-1942 or visit Illusion Motorcycles. Dealer inquiries welcome.
The 10 Rides Recommended By Victory During Daytona Bike Week
Published by March 5th, 2013 in Builders and Events.
Although Daytona will never offer the quality of rides offered by and around the Black Hills during Sturgis, there are some interesting routes that many still don’t know and should discover during the upcoming Daytona Bike Week. Victory Motorcycles published their 10 most recommended rides. Of course, some recommendations leads to Victory events. In these couple of cases, the destination is as important as the ride…
Here are 10 Rides Well, actually, nine, but you’ll see what they mean.
1. Ride Main Street and Beach Street
Main Street is where it’s at during Daytona Bike Week. It’s where people go to be seen, and you have to check it out. Cruise the street on your Victory, then park and take in the sights, day or night. It’s a guarantee that on every visit to Main Street, you’ll see something you’ve never seen before (whether you want to or not), especially at night. Beach Street is enjoying a resurgence of activity and traffic, spurred in part by the opening of Indian Victory of Daytona at 402 N. Beach St. (Phone: 386-323-9075).
2. Ride on the Beach and to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
Where else is the beach so immense that local officials can establish two traffic lanes on the beach every day? You can ride for miles on Daytona Beach, and it’s a spectacular place to soak in some sun, sea scents and a fresh breeze. Stop and shoot some photos, then proceed south on A1A to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. It’s an extremely well-managed park and the historic lighthouse – illuminated now for 126 years – is a sight to behold. Worried that your bike got sandy and salty on the beach? There are bikini bike washes all over town.
3. Ride to St. Augustine
You want historic? Take a ride north from Daytona to the city of St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, founded in 1565. Check out the web for info about the area, including the historic fort, the lighthouse, the beach, and the nature loop ride. It’s a great day trip during your visit to Daytona.
4. Ride to the Kennedy Space Center
For a day trip south of Daytona, head to the Kennedy Space Center, long the home of America’s space program. You can take a fascinating tour and see several vehicles used for space travel as well as the immense facilities used to house and launch these beautiful birds.
5. Ride the Ormond Scenic Loop
When you’re on Beach Street, you’re in the heart of urban Daytona Beach, seemingly well-removed from secluded shoreline drives. You’re closer than you think. Head north on Beach Street, beyond the retail area and the Main Street causeway, and you’re on the Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail (Google it for details). It’s a scenic, pleasant ride that takes you out of the city and away from rally traffic. Watch for wildlife, stop for lunch and feel your blood pressure drop. Continue reading ‘The 10 Rides Recommended By Victory During Daytona Bike Week’
An Italian man was leaving a convenience store with his espresso when he noticed a most unusual Italian funeral procession approaching the nearby cemetery. A black hearse was followed by a second black hearse about 50 Feet behind the first one. Behind the second hearse was a solitary Italian man walking a dog on a leash. Behind him, a short distance back, were about 200 men walking single file.
The man couldn’t stand the curiosity. He respectfully approached the Italian man walking the dog and said:”I am so sorry for your loss, and this may be a bad time to disturb you, but I’ve never seen a Italian funeral like this. Whose funeral is it?” “My wife’s.” ”What happened to her?” “She yelled at me and my dog attacked and killed her.” He inquired further, “But who is in the second hearse?” The Italian man answered, “My mother-in-law. She was trying to help my wife when the dog turned on her.”
A very poignant and touching moment of Italian brotherhood and silence passed between the two men. “Can I borrow the dog?” The man replied, “Get in line.”
Exclusive. Big Bear Choppers Launching New Titanium Model And Preparing A Line Of Custom Parts For Harley Sportsters
Published by March 4th, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
You all know the story of custom motorcycles manufacturer Big Bear Choppers. Going from boom to bust, then restarting a new business life as “Rage Hard Choppers” (Simon Scott), now the new owner and manufacturer of the BBC brand. After resolving all the legal and commercial issues that have heavily weighted on Big Bear Choppers’ image and on Kevin and Mona Alsop’s reputation as business people and persons, the couple is working hard at regaining the trust of both custom motorcycle lovers and at rebuilding a new dealers network, here in the US and abroad.
After much soul searching and marketing research, Kevin and Mona are re-emerging with a new approach to the market, a new Titanium model featured here and a soon to be annouced line of custom parts for Harley-Davidson Sportster. All being the first public expressions of what Big Bear Choppers is going to try to accomplish during the next few years. Clearly, leveraging some of the best of Harley-Davidson platforms to offer improved customized interpretation, both aesthetically and technologically, and this without sacrificing any original factory reliability. A philosophy that could be described as “finishing Milwaukee’s job.”
I wish that all of you focus your comments on this new model, not on the past, because everything about the BBC story has already been reported by me … and commented by you. Before introducing you to the Titanium to be unveiled in Daytona Beach on March 8th (Big Bear Choppers display will at the International Speedway) I must disclose that, at their request, I sat down with Scott Simon, Kevin & Mona Alsop during the last Sturgis Bike Week. The Alsops were sincere in acknowledging their mistakes, in admitting that they wrongly believed that pouring more of their own money (all of it), then borrowing more, they could survive a very depressed economy and a changing taste in bikes. And this until they realized that the business was surviving only with clients’ deposits to pay for other clients work. Continue reading ‘Exclusive. Big Bear Choppers Launching New Titanium Model And Preparing A Line Of Custom Parts For Harley Sportsters’
Harley-Davidson Offering 110th Anniversary Commemorative Photo Frame When Purchasing $300 Or More In March
Published by March 3rd, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
As an added incentive for purchasing new Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories® during this month of March,
dealers will offer customers a collectible 110th Harley-Davidson Anniversary Commemorative Photo Frame when you spend $300
The commemorative 110th Anniversary cut-out picture frame holds a 5×7-inch photo in an LED-illuminated acrylic insert and features a cast Bar and Shield logo and a bronze metallic finish. The frame has is a $75 value but is free to customers when they spend $300 or more on Harley-Davidson MotorClothes® Merchandise, Genuine Motor Parts & Accessories, Screamin’ Eagle® Performance Parts or Official Licensed Products from March 1 through March 31, 2013, while supplies last. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Offering 110th Anniversary Commemorative Photo Frame When Purchasing $300 Or More In March’
A short clip for a taste of Roland Sand Designs 2013 apparel line.
Love Your New Victory Motorcycle Or Your Money Refunded.
Published by March 2nd, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
“We build the best bikes on the planet and we’re excited to introduce the Victory Guarantee as a way to back that up,” said Victory Marketing Manager Josh Fulkerson. “We are the fastest-growing manufacturer of heavyweight motorcycles, and we are confident you’ll love your new Victory motorcycle, or we’ll refund your money. That’s the Victory Guarantee.”
“Victory builds cruisers, baggers, and touring bikes and stands behind them with the industry’s only guarantee that gives riders a chance to buy it, ride it, get the full ownership experience, and if you’re not satisfied, you’ll get your money back. Continue reading ‘Love Your New Victory Motorcycle Or Your Money Refunded.’
New Mens Milestone And Women Enthusiast Harley-Davidson Helmets
Published by March 2nd, 2013 in Accessories, Builders and Editorial.
et the comfort and versatility of pull-down sun visor with the new men’s Milestone Half Helmet with Retractable SunShield (P/N 97336-13VM, $155) from the Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® line. Built upon a lightweight polycarbonate shell, the Milestone helmet features dual front and back vents for maximum airflow plus a removable, washable liner. It accepts the optional H-D helmet headset accessory for the added convenience of communication and audio. It weighs 2 lbs. 3 oz., meets DOT requirements and is available in XS – 2XL sizes.
Built with an oversized and removable tinted visor to battle the sun’s glare with comfortable aerodynamics, the new women’s Enthusiast Helmet (P/N 98220-13VW, $150) from the Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® line delivers optimal high mileage riding protection. It features a flip-up face shield for extra wind protection and a removable neck curtain offers custom comfort control. Rear exit vents channel air through the polycarbonate shell for increased cooling on hot days, while the removable, washable inner liner adds extra convenience. It weighs 2 lbs. 3 oz. and meets DOT requirements. Available in XS – XL sizes. The Milestone Half Helmet and the Enthusiast Helmet is available now at most Harley-Davidson dealerships.
New Race-Inspired Screamin’ Eagle Billet Air Cleaner Kits From Harley-Davidson
Published by March 1st, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Harley-Davidson offers Screamin’ Eagle Kits ($349.95) in two cover styles for Touring and Trike Models. They are engineered to increase engine air flow. The forged billet aluminum cover and a perforated screen fit over a washable, pleated element that provides the ideal combination of efficiency and engine protection. A cast back plate with integral breather creates a smooth transition to the throttle body, further improving air flow.
Screamin’ Eagle® Extreme Billet Air Cleaner Kits are offered in two cover designs; Chisel (P/N 29400104 Chrome, P/N 29400103 Cut Back Black) and Agitator (P/N 29400064 Chrome, P/N 29400063 Cut Back Black). Each complements Harley-Davidson custom wheels and other accessories.
These kits fit 2008-later Touring and Trike models with the Original Equipment 50mm throttle body and include all mounting hardware. Installation requires ECM recalibration (priced separately). For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s Website
Harley-Davidson Won The Vehicle Brand Of The Year Dealer News Award During The Top 100 Dealer Gala Feb. 15 In Indianapolis. The Vehicle Brand of the Year is presented to the manufacturer with the most number of franchised dealerships in the Top 100. Six of the top 10 dealers in the competition this year are Harley-Davidson dealerships. Columbus, Ohio-based A.D. Farrow Co. Harley-Davidson, received the 2013 Don J. Brown Lifetime Achievement Award. Harley dealers placing in the “Top 10” were A.D. Farrow, Bud’s Harley-Davidson (Evansville, Ind.), Harley-Davidson of Erie (Pa.), Hot Rod Harley-Davidson (Muskegon, Mich.), Mad River Harley-Davidson (Sandusky, Ohio), and Worth Harley-Davidson (Kansas City, Mo.
Bonhams Motorcycles 2nd Paris Venue A Huge Success. The Bonhams Motorcycle department’s second visit to the historic Grand Palais in Paris on Thursday February 7th was a resounding success, with €857,625 realized – more than double the department’s 2011 sale total. Two headline collections realized a combined total of almost €600,000. Top-selling lot in the Garelli Grand Prix Collection was a 1926 Garelli 348cc Racing Motorcycle at €29,900, while a 1917 Indian 7hp Powerplus led the way among the bikes of the late Claude Lesellier, selling for €28,750. Top motorcycle lots were a 1968 Egli-Vincent 998cc Racing Motorcycle at €40,250, a 1952 Vincent 998cc Series-C Rapide at €37,950, and a c.1941 Zündapp KS750 ‘Sahara’ Motorcycle Combination at €35,650. Immediately after the auction, a 1925 Coventry-Eagle 980cc Flying-8 Sidevalve was sold for €40,090. (1 Euro = US$1.33) Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
