Archive Page 189
“I don’t claim to know too much about life saving… But if anyone is going to bring this guy back to life,
I’d put my money on the girl on the right!” (sent by Troy)
Polaris Reports Record 2012 Fourth Quarter And Full Year Results
Published by January 29th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
All product lines had increased sales and retail market share for the full year 2012.Off-Road Vehicle sales increased 22%, On-Road Vehicle sales increased 36% and PG&A sales increased 17% during the 2012 fourth quarter. Gross profit margins expanded 210 basis points to 28.2% in the fourth quarter due to manufacturing realignment savings, lower product costs and higher selling prices.
For the full year ended December 31, 2012, Polaris reported record net income of $4.40 per diluted share, a 38% increase compared to $3.20 per diluted share for the year ended December 31, 2011. Reported net income was $312.3 million for the full year 2012, up 37 percent from the previous year’s net income of $227.6 million. Sales for the full year 2012 totaled a record $3,209.8 million, an increase of 21 percent compared to sales of $2,656.9 million for the full year 2011. Continue reading ‘Polaris Reports Record 2012 Fourth Quarter And Full Year Results’
Harley-Davidson Fourth Quarter And Full Year Results Show Strong Growth
Published by January 29th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Today January 29, 2013, pre-market opening, Harley-Davidson Inc. (NYSE: HOG) announced a strong fourth-quarter 2012 capping a year of gains in earnings and new retail motorcycle sales. Worldwide retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 7.5% in the quarter and 6.2% for the full year, compared to the year-ago periods. For the full year, Harley-Davidson income from continuing operations was $623.9 million on consolidated revenue of $5.58 billion, compared to full-year 2011 income from continuing operations of $548.1 million on consolidated revenue of $5.31 billion. Full-year 2012 EPS was $2.72, up 16.7% from EPS of $2.33 in 2011.
In the fourth quarter, retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles increased 7.5% worldwide, compared to the prior-year period, with unit sales up 8.4% in the U.S. and up 6.3% in international markets. Dealers sold 43,405 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles worldwide in the quarter, with retail unit sales up 23.5% in the Latin America region, 14.8% in the Asia Pacific region and 7.3% in the North America region and down 3.3% in the EMEA region compared to last year’s fourth quarter.
Retail Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales: For the full year 2012, retail unit sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 6.2% worldwide, with increases of 6.6% in the U.S. and 5.6% internationally compared to 2011. Dealers sold 249,849 new Harley-Davidson motorcycles worldwide in 2012, with retail unit sales up 39.2% in the Latin America region, 14.3% in the Asia Pacific region and 6.2% in the North America region (U.S. and Canada) and down 3.0% in the EMEA region compared to 2011. (Industry-wide U.S. heavyweight new motorcycle (651cc-plus) retail unit sales increased 4.0% in 2012 compared to 2011.) Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Fourth Quarter And Full Year Results Show Strong Growth’
New Indian Motorcycle Summit Press Conference
Published by January 29th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.The “Indian Motorcycle Summit” press conference was filmed in New York City on January 18, 2013. Are featured Mike Wolfe, creator of “American Pickers” and “Antique Archaeology” with Indian Motorcycle Steve Menneto, Gary Gray and designer Michael Song. A little bit long but with interesting information: full engine unveiled in Daytona during Bike Week, a range of models to be launched later this year, etc. Watch…
For Their 110th Celebration Harley-Davidson Sponsors Kid Rock’s Rebel Soul Tour From February 2 to August 31
Published by January 29th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Southern rock star Kid Rock has been confirmed as one of three Marcus Amphitheater headliners for Harley-Davidson’s 110th anniversary party on the Summerfest grounds Labor Day weekend 2013.
“The first-of-its-kind partnership brings together two legendary American rebels and names Harley-Davidson as a title sponsor of Kid Rock’s Rebel Soul tour, which kicks off Feb. 2, 2013, in Kansas City,” said the company in a statement. ”
Harley-Davidson plans to offer fans unique experiences at each of the 60 planned stops during the Rebel Soul tour. The tour sponsorship is just one aspect of the which will extend from concerts to retail promotions.” Continue reading ‘For Their 110th Celebration Harley-Davidson Sponsors Kid Rock’s Rebel Soul Tour From February 2 to August 31′
Tribute To The Legendary 1966 CB Black Bomber By Fred Krugger
Published by January 28th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Until 1965, Japanese bikes were lightweight small capacity commuter bikes. Then Honda launched the CB450, dispelling any lingering doubts about Japan’s ability to manufacture very fast, jewel-like, extremely reliable bikes. Known affectionately as the ‘Black Bomber’ after its black finish, the CB450 was Honda’s largest model when launched: it was was the first 444 cc double overhead cam engine in a street bike, producing 43-45 horsepower (more than 100 HP per liter.) This engine would rev up to 10,000 rpm, an engine speed that would easily surpass the British bikes of the time (less puddle of oil.) The CB450 became one of the most desirable bikes you could buy. Then the Black Bomber was considered too old in its styling and in 1968 was changed to a more modern look, Collectors and builders, of course, want to acquire the “ugly” Black Bomber… Continue reading ‘Tribute To The Legendary 1966 CB Black Bomber By Fred Krugger’
Congratulations to Sangeeta Vinodkumar (I triple checked the spelling.) She is the first woman in India to own and ride a Harley Davidson titled in her name. It’s a metallic blue 883 Sportster offered by her husband as a birthday gift. Waiting list to get one was two months. Her 2 projects. A first bike trip around the country with her hubby and later starting a Women Harley Riding Group. (photo @ The Hindu)
What’s New From Metzeler In 2013? Marketing Director Chris Wall Answers My Questions.
Published by January 27th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
During this last decade in particular, all over the world, the number of miles ridden on Metzeler tires has sharply increased. More recently, the company was extremely successful with its ME880 Marathon model offering a better “Ridexperience” than the tires provided on factory motorcycles. Metzeler is also a favorite of the best Custom Motorcycle Builders for the range of sizes offered and the beauty of their tire designs. Receiving an invitation for the announcement of a new Metzeler model on February 2 during the Cincinnati V-Twin Expo, I could not resist asking North America Metzeler Tire Marketing Director Chris Wall to give me the exclusivity of some advance information before the big launch.
Cyril. So you have a new product to tell me about.
Chris. Yes, and I think your site is the best place to create some interest though I have to be careful not to give away too much information. We are launching it officially at the upcoming V-Twin show in Cincinnati. The big launch will be on Saturday night Feb. 2nd at 6pm at the industry party held in the convention center right after the show closes.
Cyril. I know my readers, both regular bikers and custom builders are very interested. Tell me as much as you can.
Chris. Well, as you and most of your readers know, the Metzeler ME880 has become the number 1 premium replacement tire for Harley Davidson’s and metric cruisers. Our customers made this happen over the last decade by word of mouth. These guys and gals ride in groups. You get one biker slapping on a pair of Metzeler’s and he is telling everyone how amazing his bike handles better now. Anyway, we need to evolve and we always are eyes and ears open to find the next trend. It just so happens that the trend is that they still want performance, but now mileage has become very important as well. Some say it’s the economy, and I think that is part of it. But the fact that people really, really ride their bikes these days is a factor. Trailer Weeks are becoming Bike Weeks again… Continue reading ‘What’s New From Metzeler In 2013? Marketing Director Chris Wall Answers My Questions.’
Harley-Davidson Freedom Jacket Travels Around The Globe For Harley’s 110th Anniversary.
Published by January 27th, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
In August 2012, Harley-Davidson fans around the world kicked off a year-long celebration of the company’s 110th Anniversary. Over the course of an entire year, millions of fans across 11 countries and six continents are celebrating their shared passion for freedom, self-expression, epic adventure, and the stories that unite them.
As part of the year-long celebration, Harley-Davidson has enlisted individuals from all over the world to take a single black leather jacket – the ‘Freedom Jacket’ – on an adventure and to share their stories online. The Freedom Jacket will pass from rider to rider and visit dozens of iconic destinations in all corners of the globe, collecting their stories before coming home to Milwaukee for the final celebration, Aug. 29 – Sept. 1, and for display at the Harley-Davidson Museum.
“The Freedom Jacket represents one of the most elemental, yet powerful truths of what it means to be a Harley-Davidson rider,” said Harley-Davidson’s Chief Marketing Officer Mark-Hans Richer. “A leather jacket is like a rider’s soul – every pin, scratch, scrape and patch is a visual marker of your journey and becomes part of your identity and the stories you tell.”
The Freedom Jacket was born last August when Richer wore a simple Harley leather jacket during an epic ride across the Tibetan Plateau in China to help kick-off the 110th Anniversary. At a stop along the ride, Richer asked a local Chinese man, who was working painting road markers, to paint something on the jacket to symbolize what he thought about Harley-Davidson. The man painted the Chinese character for “freedom.” Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Freedom Jacket Travels Around The Globe For Harley’s 110th Anniversary.’
Storz Performance LED Tail Lamp Kit For Harley XR1200
Published by January 26th, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Intended as a replacement for the bulky stock non-led tail light, this easy to install bolt-on kit features a compact LED tail lamp with clear lens, laminated stainless steel license plate holder, aluminum mounting bracket and installation instructions, and all necessary hardware.
It fits all models of XR1200 from 2008 to current. An optional LED turn signal kit with black anodized billet aluminum machined signals is also available. P/N: TL-400 LED Tail Lamp & License Plate Holder Kit $179.00. P/N: TL-401 Optional LED Turn Signal Kit $159.00.
Complete Storz online catalog at Storz Performance.
1911 Pierce Motorcycle To Be Auctioned In April In New York
Published by January 26th, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
You are looking at a 102-year old 100% original motorcycle (except the tires), stated to be perfectly maintained and in running condition. Only a dozen are known to be still in existence. It will hit the auction block April 20, 2013 at the 22nd Annual Antique & Classic Bicycle Auction in Copake, NY.
In 1896 George Pierce started to make bicycles, then in 901 Pierce-Arrow automobiles and in 1907 entered the motorcycle world through another Piece company under his son management. The 1st Pierce 4-cylinder motorcycle was produced in 1909 in Buffalo, NY. The 1911 model featured here Original features included 3.54″ diameter frame tubes, with the front downtube used as an oil tank and the backbone as the gas reservoir. Driveline consists of a compensating friction clutch, engaging teeth and drive shat. the 700 cc engine pushed the bike up to 60 mph. Continue reading ‘1911 Pierce Motorcycle To Be Auctioned In April In New York’
New Scrambler Handlebars By Burly Brand
Published by January 25th, 2013 in Controls, Customs and Editorial.
The latest in handlebars from Burly Brand is meant to give you some attitude while still remaining comfortable on the street or highway. Nothing extreme or unpractical. Just enough height to fit your reach with the big advantage of not requiring to change the length of your Harley brake and clutch factory cables. Pre-drilled for optional internal wiring. Height: 6″ Width: 33.5″, Pull Back: 3″, Tube Diameter: 1″. In black powdercoat or chrome. Fits most Harleys. Burly Scrambler Bars.
Did You Know? Who Designed The West Coast Choppers Logo?
Published by January 25th, 2013 in Builders and Editorial.
Jesse James’s friend Rob Fortier designed it when they were 18. He is now the editor of Rod & Custom Magazine.
Years later, when WCC became successful, the Cross Logo – a version of the Iron Cross or of the Maltese Cross,- was given to professional design firm Akins Parker Creative, who carefully researched the colors and motifs dear to “old school bikers” for variations to be used by WCC clothing and accessories.
The Maltese Cross design can be seen everywhere in the world of Kustom Kulture.
A “Steampunk Seduction”, a new offering from David Uhl, is somewhat different from Uhl’s traditional work. It features a beautiful Harley Shovelhead created by Copper Mike from Gravesend Cycles and the lovely Miss Jennie Villano transported back into Victorian England.
A small edition of canvas giclee prints (total of 100) will be offered, all of which will come signed and numbered by David with Certificates of Authenticity.
Edition specifics: Small – image size 18×24, 50 prints plus 5 Artist Proofs and 3 House Copies. Framed price $1,295, Regular – image size 24×32, 25 prints plus 3 Artist Proofs and 2 House Copies. Framed price $1,895. Large – image size 30×40, 10 prints plus 2 Artist Proofs. Framed price $2,895. To order, contact Greg Rhodes: 303-913-4840
Cory Ness Customized 2013 Victory Cross Country For National Motorcycle Museum Fundraiser
Published by January 24th, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
In New York last weekend at the IMS Show, the National Motorcycle Museum Motorcycle revealed a Cory Ness Customized 2013 Cross Country to be used as a fundraiser for the museum. You are invited to make donations for chances to win this one of a kind Victory Bagger valued at over $31,000. Entries must be received by December 31, 2013 when the winner will be announced. Each ticket is $5 or 6 tickets for $25.00. Enter at National Motorcycle Museum Continue reading ‘Cory Ness Customized 2013 Victory Cross Country For National Motorcycle Museum Fundraiser’
The Real Price Of A Harley Davidson Is Disbarment. The Wyoming Supreme Court has disbarred a former county deputy attorney who had purchased a 2007 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic motorcycle from an Idaho dealer. He misrepresented the purchase price of the Ultra Classic motorcycle to pay less in taxes and other fees. He claimed that the price was $800 when it in fact was $14,000. In attempting to renew the registration of other Harleys he owned, the attorney made similar misrepresentations to the county treasurer and submitted a falsified sales document. He was charged with felony forgery and possession of forged writings, resigned his deputy attorney position, and negotiated a plea to one felony count. He was placed on unsupervised probation for two years.
The Motorcycle Industry Council Opposes Minimum Noise Levels For Electric motorcycles. MIC has submitted comments opposing a proposed rule by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that would require electric motorcycles to emit a minimum sound to protect pedestrians. The rule would set minimum sound requirements for hybrid and electric vehicles, including but not limited to motorcycles. In the MIC’s comments, the organization argued that because of the unique attributes of motorcycles, the NHTSA should not need to require a minimum sound for them. The MIC says that motorcycle riders are better able to see and avoid pedestrians because their sight is unobstructed, and motorcyclists are more alert because of their vulnerability. The MIC also stated that electric motorcycles are not quiet, so they shouldn’t need to be subject to minimum sound requirements. The MIC stated further that adding a speaker system to electric motorcycles to emit sounds would be an issue because motorcycles have less space to add such a system, the weight of the system would have a large effect on the motorcycle’s low-speed stability, energy consumption of the speaker system would have a greater impact on a motorcycle’s range and the price of installing the system would be higher than with automobiles. The NHTSA acknowledged that motorcycles have unique challenges with the proposed rule, but it noted that because the rule is technology neutral, the sound requirements could be met without the use of a speaker system. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
The practice of riding between cars, or lane splitting, is illegal in 49 states but legal in California and in several foreign countries. Should car drivers support this practice because it helps in reducing overall traffic congestion while also allowing motorcycle riders to reduce their time of commute to and from work? Is it scary and dangerous? Yes, you could die or be seriously injured if you clip, or are clipped, by a car. This video explains the legality and the technicalities of lane slitting and the basic rules of doing it safely if you live in a place where it is authorized.
Seen In Italy. The New “Bolt-On And Ride” From Custom Chrome Europe.
Published by January 23rd, 2013 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Just completed, it was unveiled by Custom Chrome Europe at last weekend Verona, Italy Bike Expo. A stylish bagger built by Harley-Davidson Frankfurt without any modifications except the replacement of Harley oem parts with new custom ones all to be found in the soon to be released 2013 CCE catalog. I will publish the shopping list as soon as available. (photo copyright Horst Roesler)
Harley-Davidson. Our approach Is The Same In Every Market.
Published by January 23rd, 2013 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
In an interview last week in Mumbai with Hindus And Times, Harley-Davidson President and COO Matthew Levatich and Harley-Davidson India Managing Director Anoop Prakash explained their strategy. Below are some edited excerpts.
Since it launched its Indian operations in 2009, Harley-Davidson has sold some 2,000 bikes in the country. Slowing economic growth hasn’t hurt demand for its products; customers need to wait three to four months to receive delivery after booking for most Harley models. Harley sells 13 models in India, of which six are locally assembled at a factory in Bawal, Haryana.
Q- Will we the company offering more models that are locally assembled? Any plans of making fresh investment in your facility in Haryana?
A- Levatich: We will continue to evaluate the possibilities on a model basis. For the time being, we continue to leverage the investment already made. It’s all about making sure that we read and support the market well. The completely knocked down (CKD) models make up…the majority of the sales because it’s a point of entry into the brand. You can say it’s a chicken and egg concept. People are buying CKD as we chose to do it and vice versa.
Q- Is Harley looking at developing an India-specific motorcycle?
A- Levatich: Product development is a significant investment for any company and our strategy is not to develop any market-specific motorcycles. We don’t have any in our portfolio today and we don’t have any plans to. However, when we decided to enter the Indian market and going through the planning process, we started incorporating new answers about the market into product planning, which is a long-term process, which addresses the needs of the Indian buyers, so that our models make sense for this market. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson. Our approach Is The Same In Every Market.’
Custom Chrome Europe Bike Show Winners At 2013 Verona Bike Expo
Published by January 23rd, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.Last weekend (January 18– 20) was the 2013 edition of the excellent Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy. On the floor, 400 custom bikes from all over Europe from which were nominated 50 to participate in the Custom Chrome Europe Bike Show, part on the CCE International Bike Show Series (other events are set at Mainz in Germany (European Championship), Pahsolavky‘s EURO BIKE FEST and Faak in Austria). Bikes are judged in 4 categories: Championship title, Modified Harley Class, RevTech Performance Class and Jammer Old School Class, all of which were awarded 1st-3rd place with CCE purchase vouchers for a total of 10,000 euros. I have already featured some of these bikes but I am certain you will enjoy seeing them again…
Champion Class Winner. Speed Demon By Abnormal Cycles In Italy, the old school style is as big as here in the US. This board track is powered by a beautifully detailed 1919 Harley-Davidson JD engine that might have originated from one of the surplus World War 1 motorcycles, The single frame downtube ris from a 1930 Harley VL. A multitude of hand made parts are and perfectly treated in nickel-plating and polished brass. By the way, if you have the opportunity don’t miss a party organized by boss Samuele Reali and his team. Italian loud…
Modified Harley-Davidson Class Winner. Blue Bagger By Garage 65. Marco Cinquini is Italy’s most well known builder and his customs landed many times in my digital space.
2 years went in development and construction of this high end All-Aluminum Bolt-On Bagger Kit. All body parts you see on this prototype, including the bags, have been hand hammered and formed.
Notice the exhaust system exiting at the bottom of the rear fender. Bags open automatically. Fairing includes an iPad controlling all the entertainment and navigation systems.
Jammer Old School Class Winner. Indian Scout by Hard Nine Choppers. Danny Schneider’s Indian Scout has stroke a string in the heart on all judges as he collected almost all top positions in the Jammer Old School Class. A restoration/customization preserving the Indian soul and heritage. Danny Schneider kept all the original 101 Scout motorcycle he removed which has been preserved in a way that it can always be rebuild into the original. Danny built his own handlebars, seat, floorboards, fender and tank. The exhaust system has just the right “hot sound.“ Danny is coming from the Freestyle MX scene, so he is occasionally stunt riding his custom creations. He plans to get the custom Scout back the way it used to be and test ride it in a Wall of Death. (photography copyright Horst Roesler) Continue reading ‘Custom Chrome Europe Bike Show Winners At 2013 Verona Bike Expo’
No-Joke Of The week. Suspect Number One Is A Certain Harley Davidson
Published by January 23rd, 2013 in Editorial and Events.
For a change, a true story. Policemen in Brazil in a hunt for a thief are embarrassed after an hilarious case of mistaken identity. They were looking for a man responsible or numerous armed carjackings in the town of Guapo. They found clothing – an emblazoned cap & tee-shirt – at the scene of one of the crimes. Immediately, town’s police chief Sergeant Cunhamade made a TV announcement stating that they had an identity for the thief, asking viewers for help in locating the prime suspect, Mr. Harley Davidson. Continue reading ‘No-Joke Of The week. Suspect Number One Is A Certain Harley Davidson’
New TV Show On Travel Channel Will Feature Custom Builder Ron Finch
Published by January 22nd, 2013 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
“Edge Of America” is about an arts and entertainment journalist named Geoff Edgers traveling the country to experience firsthand the events, sports and hobbies that keep America entertained. Because as you know, Americans will do just about anything,including the wonderful, the weird and the crazy to entertain themselves. Going where he doesn’t belong, last September Geoff discovered Artist/Sculptor/Painter/Custom Builder Ron Finch at the Catskill Mountain Thunder event in East Durham, New York. He filmed an episode about Ron and rode in his famous “Outsider” sidecar. A must watch. The series premiere this evening Tuesday January 22 @ 9E/8 C on the Travel Channel. I will post the date of the specific episode about Ron Finch as soon as it is released.
Another Simple Plug And Go Charger For All Your Electronic Devices
Published by January 22nd, 2013 in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
If you keep a battery tender cable attached to your battery, there is a small, simple solution, no extra cable required, to charge your smart phone, MP3 player, tablet, etc while on the go.
It’s a charger that you plug directly into the 2-Pin SAE connection typically used for trickle charging batteries. Previous solutions have used a very unreliable female cigarette plug and car-type of USB charger. A two piece solution that is bulky and proven unreliable for outdoor usage.
The SABEUS-1 eliminates the cables and makes it possible to easily store a phone charging device in your pocket or saddlebag when not in use. You just pull it out only when you need it. This maintains a cleaner look on the motorcycle or vehicle. Since it is directly attached to the battery cable it is always powered on, no matter the selection of the ignition switch. Thiis USB charging solution works on any 12VDC outdoor source including ATVs, golf carts, snowmobiles, farming and construction equipment. $32.95 at ZootFresh.
Short exchange between Mike Wolfe from TV Series American Picker and Indian Motorcycle designer Greg Brew about the new Indian Motorcycle model and how it will take inspiration from the past and preserve the brand history.
Replacement Motor Sprocket For Late Harley-Davidson Big Twins
Published by January 22nd, 2013 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
New to the Evolution Industries line up of driveline parts is the 34 Tooth Motor Sprocket for 2006 & later Dyna and 2007 and later Big Twins models. It eliminates the compensator and runs solid in your primary, preventing slippage on your hot motor set up. It also eliminates the issues of disintegrating stock or Screaming Eagle compensating sprockets while lowering driveline noise level. At 4.770 lbs, this sprocket is over half the weight of the stock pne, reducing the rotating mass. Works with any oils designed to go into the primary , whether factory or after market oil. Evolution Industries. Made out of high strength 4140 tool steel. heat treated then black oxide coated. Evolution Industries. 909-594-7959
