I may have discovered the 1st Custom Builder installed and doing business in Hong Kong (If there is anybody else, please contact me.) Intrigued, I asked Benoit Barras, a French born, to explain to me how he ended up creating his shop called “Angry Lane” in a city-state (with a high degree of autonomy even after its return to China in 1997) where 90% of daily travels (11 million) are on public transport, the highest such percentage in the world… Doesn’t sound to me like the best place to wrench motorcycles, but…
Benoit admits that the Hong Kong scene is quite difficult, not easy to find parts, do chrome or even a nice paint job. He came to Hong Kong in 2006 to join his brother Guillaume who launched a company doing garment trading for the action sports industries, He first joined as a designer/art director. Back in the days in France, both brothers got their first PW50 Yamaha when they were 6 years old, then much later rode big bikes with the HAMC Paris. Business in sportswear trading not being very good (traders buy a price not a well done garment), they closed the business, created the Black Needle brand, doing Japanese denim, tees and exotic leathers. Being hooked on motorcycles they also started a distribution in Hong Kong for Japan Easyriders parts while keeping in mind to launch one day a cool brand around motorcycles and its lifestyle. Continue reading ‘Custom Bike Building In Hong Kong’
Archive Page 202
Custom Bike Building In Hong Kong
Published by October 3rd, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.Bike Bumper™ Motorcycle Fairing & Fender Protectors
Published by October 3rd, 2012 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
A “Bike Bumper™” Fairing Protector for Harley-Davidson Batwing fairings (ref: 4405-0170), Road Glide Fairings (ref: 4405-0171) and Touring Fenders (ref: 4405-0172) Never again will you have to worry about an unprotected fairing or fender while hauling or storing your bike. The Bike Bumper Fairing Protector covers the entire outer fairing with heavy canvas material and adds extra thick neoprene padding at the outer edges where the fairing is most vulnerable to damage. Secure hold-down straps attach the Bike Bumper to the motorcycle and prevent shifting in a closed trailer or flapping in the wind in an open one. Just peace of mind from $29.95 to $64.94. At Cycle Sound LLC 866-427-2346
A motorcycle, a Harley-Davidson or Custom Motorcycle can help sell almost anything. Like in this ad targeting mothers. Baseline reads: “Children’s Enriched Powderer Milk.” Efficient?
October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Published by October 3rd, 2012 in Editorial, Events and Merchandise.
Also referred in America as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM)), it’s an international event to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.
The campaign also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer. In the fall of 1991, the Susan G. Komen Foundation had handed out pink ribbons to participants in its New York City race for breast cancer survivors. In In 1993 Evelyn Lauder, Senior Corporate Vice President of the Estée Lauder Companies founded The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and established the pink ribbon as its symbol.
A very large number of companies participate to the event. In the MC industry, among them is Bika Chik offering a portion of the proceeds of each sale of their Pink collection to support the cause.
2 Brough Superior To Be Auctioned At Bonhams Autumn Stafford Sale
Published by October 2nd, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Collectors will have an opportunity to acquire 2 important Brough Superior SS-80 motorcycles at the Bonhams Autumn Stafford Sale at The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show on Sunday, Oct. 21. One is an original, un-restored and the other was restored and was owned by the founder of the Vintage Motor Cycle Club. 1925 Brough Superior SS-80: The remarkable 1925 model (estimate about £55,000 to £75,000 (about $89,000 to $120,000) has been owned by the same family since 1930. Brough Superior SS-80 De Luxe “Black Bess”: Founder of the Vintage Motor Cycle Club (VMCC), the late C E ‘Titch’ Allen OBE, bought ‘Black Bess’, as the machine came to be known, using a £50 gratuity given to him in the aftermath of World War II, during which he served as a dispatch rider and a sergeant, being awarded the British Empire Medal. Restored to original specification by marque specialists during the 1990s after its acquisition by the current vendor, the motorcycle is offered for sale in excellent condition, and is estimated to realize between £80,000 and £120,000 (about $130,000 to $193,000)
Another bike shop ventures in the bagger parts business. Azzkikr Custom Cycles in Surrey, British Columbia, just released some interesting CNC machined parts for your touring bike. Not only in chrome & black, but also mixing them with brass. Fork sliders, hand grips, brake pedals, bag latches, exhaust tips, floorboards etc. Most of them are featured on their latest custom bagger called “Therapy.” Check them out before you dress yours. Azzkikr Custom Cycles 604-539-1930
4% Of Fatal Crashes Involve Motorcycles: Of all the people killed on the roadways, about 4% of them are motorcyclists according to the National Highway Safety Administration. What is the conclusion the NHSA is making without proving its point? Of course, wear a helmet…
Harley Davidson Tells Arab Women To Ride Their Own Bikes. In most Arab countries you will see a lot of women riding as passengers on small cc’s motorcycles.Harley-Davidson is aiming to boost its sales in the Middle East by tapping into a growing demand from female riders. Like in the western world a lot of women finally understand that they can ride a motorcycle. Of course, it’s especially true if they receive a demonstration experience by one of the local Harley dealers. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
The Raven. A Classic Built From Moto Guzzi, Norton & Honda Parts.
Published by October 1st, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
“I have always wanted to design and build something unique, powerful, light , functional in a classic look. Choppers, bobbers and sport bikes are very cool bu, I did not want to build from an existing engine/trans/frame package” says Jeff Gundlach from Raven Motorcycles. Jeff had dreamed to build this bike 15 years ago but it took him until last year to start designing it on paper. Objective: a unique classic looking bike to be a daily rider, not too stereotypical of any brand and of course offering great performance. The super bike of 1971 that was never built?
Jeff tried quite a few sketches until he decided for the one corresponding to the result you see here. Drawings were done with a 25-degree rake, a 58″ wheelbase, a high mounted motor for ground clearance and the minimum of parts necessary to make it perform. Simple, light, fast and stable without any needless parts hung on to cover things up. No fluff. everything has a purpose… Continue reading ‘The Raven. A Classic Built From Moto Guzzi, Norton & Honda Parts.’
How to Rebuild and Restore Classic Harley-Davidson Big Twins 1936-1964
Published by September 30th, 2012 in Books and Editorial.
Into restoring an old classic Harley-Davidson from the glorious period, years 1936 to 1964? You should add this new book to your workbench or bedside stand. We all know that being a collector and/or rider of these motorcycles implies a lot of pleasure but also sometimes a lot of frustrations with machines known to be, well temperamental…
The rebuilding and restoring of these machines is not so much a defined task as a never-ending process. Still ready to face some mechanical challenges? This book offers pristine restored examples, explains the care, repair and maintenance that these Harleys require.
With a thorough text and detailed photography, author Rick Schunk walks vintage Harley owners through start-to-finish instructions for each operation necessary for the repair and restoration of a classic Harley-Davidson Big Twin. Continue reading ‘How to Rebuild and Restore Classic Harley-Davidson Big Twins 1936-1964’
Neck Tie To Dress Up Your Frame
Published by September 30th, 2012 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
One of the most popular add-ons for those building their bike from the ground up is to dress up the frame with decorative gusset pieces.
You can make yours or buy this “Neck Tie”, maybe do a little bit of grinding to perfectly fit your tubes angle, then weld it.
And if your bike is competing in bike shows it’s the little detail that can earn you an extra point on the judges’ score sheet. Sold $39.99 by the boys of Pandemonium Custom Choppers.
Tooled Leather Touring Bike Bag Latches
Published by September 29th, 2012 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
A cool idea from Precision Billet Products. For those who want to match their hand tool seat to their touring bag latches, or the opposite. These brown Leather bag latches combine hand crafted billet with the unique look and texture of tooled calf hide.
The latches are CNC milled out of T6061 Aircraft Grade Billet Aluminum. Retains the full function of the stock latches and precision cut ensuring no rattling while you ride. Sold in pairs. $199.00. If you visit Las Vegas BikeFest, they have a display at the Cashman Center. Precision Billet Products.
9th Annual David Mann Chopperfest Is December 9, 2012.
Published by September 29th, 2012 in Editorial, Events and Painters.
David Mann spent his lifetime riding and portraying his lifestyle on canvas and was well known by most of you for his center spreads in Easyriders Magazine until his passing in 2004 at the age of 64. David Mann Chopperfest pays tribute each year to the man that many consider “the epitome of the biker artist” with a series of activities held this year on Sunday December 9th 2012 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura CA from 8am-3pm Continue reading ‘9th Annual David Mann Chopperfest Is December 9, 2012.’
If you don’t object showing the logo of the brand you like, these new fuel cap lineup from Performance Machine offers 5 more options to nicely top off your gas tank. Make your choice between the following models: Merc, Array, Scallop, Grill and Apex. Each is priced at $69.95. And of course, they match the company other components. Performance Machine.
In June 2010 I ran a feature on a young builder that I titled “A Youngster Small Budget Customized Honda CB350.” Today he was very proud to tell me that he started his own custom motorcycle shop that he called “Speakeasy Motors.” He is only 22 and to help him a little bit more, a short video about him and his new shop (edited by Marc A. Reynolds of CDG Films)
Love Ride 29 To Benefit The USO On October 21, 2012 With Jay Leno To Be Grand Marshal
Published by September 28th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
The Love Ride is the longest-running motorcycle fundraising event in the world and has raised $24 million for charity in 28 years. The event was founded in 1984 by Oliver Shokouh, the owner of Harley-Davidson of Glendale. Love Ride participants, which have exceeded 20,000 in past years, will sign-up at Harley-Davidson of Glendale before arriving at Castaic Lake for a trade show, bike show, stunt show, food truck fair, and a concert featuring George Thorogood & the Destroyers, Canned Heat, and the Strawberry Alarm Clock. Continue reading ‘Love Ride 29 To Benefit The USO On October 21, 2012 With Jay Leno To Be Grand Marshal’
They are brothers and best friends. Every day Jarrod & Justin Del Prado work together,sharing the same passion for turning stock motorcycles into 2-wheel hot rods riding better and faster than in their original factory delivery. On this project they used a low mileage 1200 cc Harley Sportster , their goal being to strip off all of the excess and make the bike ride and handle much better. A philosophy that they summarize with these words: “building freedom rides designed to cut you loose of the world and all its rules…” Continue reading ‘Black & White By DP Customs’
Confederate X132 Hellcat Combat Prototype At The Bonneville Salt Flats
Published by September 27th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Videos.In Bonneville. James Hoegh successfully piloted the first Confederate X132 Hellcat Combat prototype to a top speed of 172.211 mph, making it the world’s fastest in the APF3000 category (big block American V-twin, unfaired, naturally aspirated over 2000cc.) In this video, he describes how it is to race on the Salt Flats.
New Soft Lowers Clip In Place For Instant Wind and Weather Protection
Published by September 26th, 2012 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
The new full-coverage Soft Lowers ($89.99 to $99.95) from Harley-Davidson® can extend the riding season by providing wind and mud protection for the rider’s legs and boots, and minimizing cold updrafts.
These covers are custom-shaped to hug the engine guard and minimize flapping, and clip in place for speedy installation.
The two-way zippered outer edge accommodates guard-mounted highway pegs in almost any position. Reflective piping provides added visibility, and convenient zippered pockets provide storage for maps or other small items.
Soft Lowers are available to fit many Sportster®, Dyna®, Touring and Softail® models equipped with an engine guard, but may not fit with forward controls and some other accessories.
See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details.
Polaris Looking For Australia Victory and Indian Motorcycles Marketing Manager
Published by September 26th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Having a lot of readers in Australia & New Zealand, I thought that one or more of them could be interested by this “dream job” proposed by Polaris. The position was posted this morning, so rush your application (looks like you need to have an account on LinkedIn to apply). Submit your resume before October 5, 2012 at LinkedIn Jobs.
Victory Motorcycles Australia – Melbourne Area, Australia
Job Description: Are you aspirational and inspirational in a successful marketing outfit, busting at the chops to rewrite the playbook and be the star? Do you have chutzpah to own and grow 2 unique brands? Can you launch the legendary Indian Motorcycle, turbo charge Victory, The New American Motorcycle and take on the big boys? This role is an unparalleled opportunity to lead the Victory & Indian marketing effort. Reporting to the motorcycles country manager A&NZ you will create and execute an integrated marketing strategy and operating plan to deliver an exceptional end to end customer experience and market growth. Continue reading ‘Polaris Looking For Australia Victory and Indian Motorcycles Marketing Manager’
Lighting Up Your Motorcycle Paint Job At The Flick Of A Switch
Published by September 26th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Videos.A company named Darkside Scientific announces the creation of a product that they state will transform the way we use and see paint. It’s called LumiLor and is a patent-pending practical, durable and affordable electroluminescent coating technology that can be illuminated with a simple electrical current. A motorcycle that lights up at night at the switch of a button? Every day is seems like reality creeps ever closer to science-fiction. Darkside Scientific claims it can be custom-animated to flash in sequenced, strobed, and sound activated modes and says it can be applied to metal, wood, fiberglass and plastics. LumiLor is claimed to be energy efficient, powered by a touch of electrical current, and is safe and cool to the touch. A new medium for artists to explore?
A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K…
After being together for twenty five years, a biker and his old lady were having a few brews at the local bar when she asked him to describe her. He looked at her slowly… then said, “You’re A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K…”
She asks, “What does that mean?” He said, “Adorable, Beautiful, Cute, Del.ightful, Elegant, Foxy, Gorgeous, Hot. She smiled happily and said, “Oh, that’s so lovely…” What about I, J, K?” she asked. He said, “I’m Just Kidding!”
2012 Las Vegas BikeFest Starts This Thursday September 27
Published by September 25th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The 12th edition of Las Vegas BikeFest starts this Thursday. If you didn’t make a pre-registration, you can still buy on location a $45 party pass for all long weekend, an ultimate pass for $70 and a “Rock N’ Ride” pass for $90 ($20 supplement includes a ticket to the Friday night Rock Vegas Festival Concert at Mandalay Bay on Friday night with lineup including Shinedown, Godsmack, Stained, Hellyeah and Adelitas Way) Some rooms still available by reserving HERE.
Come to the Artistry in Iron Editors’ Choice Awards! In addition to the builders selecting who they think is the master builder for this year’s Artistry in Iron, Las Vegas Bikefest has invited Editors from motorcycle publications to choose the bike they believe embodies the Artistry in Iron criteria. Each winner will receive a trophy or prize package from the magazine as well as a bike feature in the publication. Awards will be presented on Saturday, September 29 at 2pm in the Artistry in Iron Exhibit at the Cashman Center. Continue reading ‘2012 Las Vegas BikeFest Starts This Thursday September 27’
Hiro Koiso Racing Clocks 214.224 Mph In Bonneville On 2006 Harley-Davidson Dyna
Published by September 25th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The 9th annual BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials, This year was the 5th year of Land Speed Racing at Bonneville for Hiro Koiso Racing. The bike had gone through every inch of renovation from the previous year. This includes custom made fairings, a new JIMS135″ Twin Cam engine modified by T-Man Performance and a B-1 ProCharger that feeds air through custom intercooler. All this resulted in 262 horsepower at the rear wheel.
Despite wet conditions of the salt from rain in previous days, the team clocked one-way top speed of 214.224mph on this rubber mounted DYNA. Unfortunately, minor mechanical trouble on return run set average record back to 192mph. During a later run, a fire started by a broken fuel fitting. Hiro walked away but the bike was heavily damaged. Continue reading ‘Hiro Koiso Racing Clocks 214.224 Mph In Bonneville On 2006 Harley-Davidson Dyna’
Harley-Davidson Planning Dealerships In Libya, Iraq & Pakistan: Paul De Jongh, country manager for Harley Davidson Middle East and North Africa, has told told Arabian Business News that the company is planning to boost its dealerships in the Middle Eastern countries including Libya and Iraq. We are hoping markets like Tunisia, Libya, Iraq and Pakistan will be future markets that we could have presence in. We know we have got customers in those countries. We see them during rallies. We hear from them often, asking us [when we will be in their countries],” he added.
Samson Exhaust Relocating From California To Sturgis. Samson Exhaust is a 21-year old company based in Brea, Calif., and is one of the leading manufacturers of exhaust systems, mufflers and accessories for Harley-Davidson and Metric motorcycles. Founder and CEO Kenny Price purchased in 2007 a 3-acre site in the Sturgis Industrial Park. He just started construction on a 45,000 square foot building. The relocation project is expected to be completed by April 2013 and will create 30 new jobs.”This move is a giant step for Samson to continue to be a world-class provider of quality products to the motorcycle community, and where better should we be but in Sturgis – the world renowned ‘City of Riders.'” says Kenny Price. A public ceremony is planned for 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at the construction site located at 1151 Industry Road in the Sturgis Industrial Park.
Harley-Davidson Inc. To Report 3rd Quarter Earning October 23, 2012. It is scheduled at 8 a.m. before market hours on Tuesday, October 23. The public is invited to attend a webcast conference call and downloadable slide presentation with Keith Wandell, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, and John Olin, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Harley-Davidson. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
