Chris Bell was a construction worker in Las Vegas until the real estate crash kept him in his garage wondering what he could do to employ himself. Being a biker with some experience in building custom bikes, and convinced that green machines will become more and more popular, he wondered why most electric motorcycles still look like glorified mopeds. Although not an electrical engineer, Chris decided to build a green prototype as “bad to the bone” as possible, something feeling and riding like a motorcycle, of course rumble not included… Continue reading ‘Brutus Electric Motorcycle’
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2012 Daytona Bike Week. Progressive International Motorcycle Show At The Ocean Center.
Published by March 14th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Another place to visit while participating to Daytona Bike week is the Progressive International Motorcycle Show where you can see new products, custom built bikes and learn a few new things about motorcycling.
The Daytona Motorcycle Show is open to everyone, so bring your riding group, and bring your family because there’s something for every type of rider and enthusiast.
There are several show features for you to enjoy, such as the Marketplace, the Dream Pavilion, a Kawasaki Design A Bike, performances from the Smage Bros Stunt Show of America’s Got Talent Fame, a vintage motorcycle showcase as part of “A Century of Motorcycling” presented by Motorcyclist Magazine and of interest for most of you the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show will over $14,000 in available winnings. And entry is free for everyone! Continue reading ‘2012 Daytona Bike Week. Progressive International Motorcycle Show At The Ocean Center.’
Daytona Bike Week. Arlen Ness, Rick Fairless and Dave Perewitz Each To Unveil Allstate Insurance Custom Motorcycles.
Published by March 13th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Today, in partnership with three of the country’s top motorcycle builders, Allstate Insurance Company is unveiling in Daytona four custom motorcycle creations inspired by the company. One of them, an Arlen Ness Custom 2012 Victory Cross Country, will be given away as the grand prize in a national sweepstakes. “These four beautiful and elaborate creations tell a unique story about our motorcycle product, industry innovations and rider advocacy efforts,” said Keith Rutman, vice president of Allstate’s Consumer Household unit ”
The customs each bear unique themes that mirror the distinguished styles of the builders, while reflecting Allstate’s dedication to protection. “Rick, Dave and I have distinct differences in our styles,” said Ness. “But in the end, we were able to come together with one goal in mind – the rider.” The bikes will be on display during Daytona Bike Week at the Allstate Rider Protection Zone located at Daytona International Speedway (1801 W. International Speedway Blvd.), which opened Friday, March 9. Continue reading ‘Daytona Bike Week. Arlen Ness, Rick Fairless and Dave Perewitz Each To Unveil Allstate Insurance Custom Motorcycles.’
Harley-Davidson Stock Hits New 52-Week High
Published by March 13th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Harley-Davidson (HOG) is one of the top performers in the S&P 500. On Monday, shares of Harley-Davidson closed at a 52-week high of $48.11, up 23.77% since January 1, 2012. Retail inventory levels remain lean and retail credit availability has remained stable to slightly improved over the last few months. New models are successful and a very mild winter up north pushed people to order new bikes sooner in the season than usually. Harley-Davidson reported fourth-quarter earnings in late January of 46 cents a share on revenue of $1.03 billion. Eight of the 18 analysts who cover the stock give it a strong buy rating, two rated it a buy and eight rated it a hold.
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n 2000, in Centerville, Indiana, Chris Sullivan opened a small custom shop where he is building Bobbers and Choppers. Logically, he creates a few parts to fit his creations and sell them to others. It includes these plain and flake solo seats that you can custom order with vertical or horizontal or diamond pleat. Many colors available including an uncommon gold and orange. Starting at $99 + $10 shipping in continental US. Sully’s Customs.
Daytona Bike Week. RC Takes On ABATE Florida.
Published by March 13th, 2012 in Editorial, Events and Videos.Although living and working in Florida, I am not a member of ABATE FL. That you belong or not to ABATE, you should watch and listen to RC taking on ABATE Florida. Far from boring, hilarious in many ways and more important so instructive…
Black Widow. Butch Walker’s Custom Triumph T100
Published by March 12th, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Artists usually play well together. I mean they understand, respect the talent of each other without interfering with the other party domain of expertise . This beautiful custom 1966 Triumph T100 (500 cc) is the result of a great collaboration between rocker Butch Walker and Lucas Joyner, owner of The Factory Metal Works, a shop in Concord, NC specializing in bespoke classic motorcycles. Butch knows more than most about motorcycles. But his domain is composing songs, singing and playing guitar with his band “The Black Widows” and producing music in collaboration with artists such as Pink, Avril Lavigne, Lit, Sevendust, The Donnas, American Hi-Fi, and SR-71. Not at his first custom classic bike when he met with Lucas Joyner, Butch briefing was clear and tight but he promised to Lucas that he would let him run with his own ideas. Continue reading ‘Black Widow. Butch Walker’s Custom Triumph T100′
The 71th edition of Daytona Bike Week just got started. Many races are going to be run on different tracks, but not on the beach like it was for the prestigious Daytona 200 from its inception in 1937 until the early 60’s. In 1948, LIFE magazine reported on this high speed , high risk and many crashes race.
These pictures, some not published at the time, were shot by photographer Joseph Scherschel and perfectly illustrate the Daytona madness of this time. 155 helmeted daredevils participated to the 1948 Daytona 200 high octane race, with only 45 finishing. Floyd Emde (inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998) claimed victory, averaging 84 mph and receiving a prize money of $2000. 1948 was the first time a rider led the race from flag to flag and it was the last time an Indian Motorcycle won the Daytona 200.
Continue reading ‘Flashback. Daytona 200 Race Madness In 1948’
New ThunderMax “Rider Programming Mode” Without A Computer.
Published by March 11th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial, Engines and Videos.
It’s a new feature released for ThunderMax Throttle-by-Wire applications for 2.0 or greater firmware. “Rider Programming Mode” is used to access and adjust basic settings of the ECM without a computer. It allows computer-free use of these features: • The Configuration Library of Stored Base Maps • Idle Speed Selection • Speedometer Calibration • Clearing AutoTune Adjustments.
In this video, you can review the Rider Programing Mode and the Configuration Library of Base Maps. Loading multiple maps into the Configuration Library is not a required function. Only one map uploaded into “Running Position” is required for engine operation. Watch this ThunderMax Video for explanation. Info, installation during Daytona Bike Week at Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach.
See The New Motus Motorcycles In Daytona. Dealer Network And Prices To Be Unveiled.
Published by March 10th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.Exactly one year ago in Daytona Motus Motorcycles revealed its fully functioning prototype motorcycles, rode them around town, announced 12 months of rigorous testing around the country and promised to announce the production specs, colors, pricing, accessories, availability, and an initial list of Authorized Motus Dealers during this edition of Bike Week. This time has arrived. Motus invites all of you to join them for one of the last, rare chances to view the MST and MST-R American Sportbike prototypes March 15-17, at Daytona Ducati Triumph BMW, located at the western foot of the Main Street Bridge, at 118 East Fairview Ave, Daytona Beach. You will get the specifications, availability, pricing, and options. Advance reservations will be accepted for fall 2012 delivery. Motus Motorcycles.
2012 Daytona Bike Week. Jasmine Cain Rock N’ Roll Dates.
Published by March 10th, 2012 in Editorial, Events and Videos.
This coming week Jasmine Cain will be back in Daytona with a new album and her band of rebel rockers to headline several nights of rock n’ roll both at the Broken Spoke Saloon and close by at the Iron Horse Saloon both in Ormond Beach. But unlike the daytime intimate settings you are used to, be prepared for mind blowing, anthemic rock shows complete with big production, lighting effects and more original material from everyone’s favorite Bike Week band!
Always a great show, with talented musicians and high energy, not to mention Jasmine’s famous stage dive! Her new album “Highway Prophet” will be available for the first time to Daytona Bike Week party-goers as well as a new line of apparel so you can promote your favorite rocker chick to the masses!
Jasmine and the band are also very proud to announce the debut of their first music video off the new album “Highway Prophet”. Not only can you be the first ones to view the much anticipated cinematic creation that Jasmine has kept so secretly under wraps, but you will have the experience of viewing it on the “big screen” at many of her headlining performances. Also adding to the marketing originality, you will be able to watch and listen to the music video at the laptop stations located at Jasmine’s merchandise booth during shows! Continue reading ‘2012 Daytona Bike Week. Jasmine Cain Rock N’ Roll Dates.’
Daytona Bike Week. Robison’s Motorcycle Sales And Service 50th Anniversary Party On March 16th.
Published by March 9th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Exhaust.
I have a favor to ask all of you present in Daytona during Bike Week. To attend on Friday March 16th even for a short time if you are very busy,Robison’s Open House Party (11 am to 6 pm) to pay tribute to the 50th year that Joe Robison is in the motorcycle business. Almost all of you have ridden on International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona, but many have missed and never stopped by the Robison’s Motorcycle Sales And Service Shop.
Joe Robison was the original and only local Harley dealer in Daytona from 1962 until 1993 when he sold his dealership to Bruce Rossmeyer and changed his business to Robison’s Motorcycle Sales and Service, that, at one point, comprised a total of five buildings warehousing new, old, aftermarket, and used parts. The Harley factory team would prepare and tune their race bikes at his shop and Joe was always in the pits during a race keeping things running smoothly. Robison remained popular with the racing set who sought out his mechanics and, especially for important races, the services of Robison himself. Today, Robison’s continues to specialize in motorcycles over 10 years old and assists with restorations at any stage. The shop also continues to maintain an extensive on-site inventory of never-used “old stock” parts still in their original packagings. Continue reading ‘Daytona Bike Week. Robison’s Motorcycle Sales And Service 50th Anniversary Party On March 16th.’
New Screamin’ Eagle Muffler Shields In Brushed Nickel Finish
Published by March 9th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
The brushed nickel finish used by many custom builders on their exhaust system has arrived at Harley-Davidson.
The Milwaukee company is now marketing new Screamin’ Eagle® Muffler Shields to complement he jet-black finish of Screamin’ Eagle Street Performance Mufflers.
The warm, brushed finish is obtained by a unique electroless nickel plating. The rear shield features a black-filled, deep-embossed “Screamin’ Eagle” signature script. The easy-to-install kit includes front and rear shields and mounting hardware, and fits 2004-later Sportster® models and 2006-later Dyna® models with shorty dual exhaust.
You can also pair the Brushed Nickel Muffler Shields with the Screamin’ Eagle Buckshot Exhaust Shield Kit – Brushed Nickel ($149.95 to $249.95) with a perforated design that exposes the head pipe. The easy-to-install kit includes front and rear head pipe shields. Available to fit 2004-later Sportster models and many 2006-later Dyna models with shorty dual exhaust. See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details.
The best way to appreciate your job is to imagine yourself without one. Oscar Wilde
The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary. Donald Kendall
Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there. Will Rogers
When I was young, I observed that nine out of ten things I did were failures. So I did ten times more work. George Bernard Shaw
Daytona Bike Week. First Deadly Crash Involves Well Known Members Of The Custom Motorcycle Industry.
Published by March 8th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial, Engines and Events.
I am sad to report that Wednesday evening March 7, 2012 around 8.15 pm, Keith and Amber Brinton from Diamond Heads in Las Vegas were involved in an accident in Port-Orange (South Of Daytona Beach) while traveling together northbound on the same motorcycle on Ridgewood Avenue.
They were struck from behind by a Lincoln Expedition SUV operated by a South Daytona 64 old woman. Both Keith and Amber Brinton were thrown from the motorcycle. Amber was pronounced dead at the Halifax Health Hospital. Keith suffered head injuries and a broken collar bone. The crash remains under investigation by the Port Orange Police Department. My personal condolences to their daughter Jennifer Brinton and all the family.
Diamond Heads “The King Of Bling” was invented by Keith Brinton who holds 3 patents regarding “a proven motor heads cooling system that sparkles and shines for a lifetime.” Keith Brinton frequently comments and participates with you in discussions in this news website.
Exclusive. Billy Lane Rolling Thunder 25th Anniversary Bike In Progress.
Published by March 8th, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Events.
As I reported on January 30, 2012 four builders including Billy Lane are building each a tribute bike for the 25th Anniversary of Rolling Thunder. Each builder was assigned a military theme and the 4 bikes will be unveiled on May 26 in Washington DC before touring the country for everybody to admire. Prison officials have authorized Billy Lane to work on his project, and after parts procurement, he started to build this very cool 93″ S&S Knucklehead. Characteristic: it should be very light, only around an estimated 375 pounds, logical for an “Air Force” theme bike supposed to fly… at ground level.
How Unknown Choppers Succeeded At Having This Trike Project 100% Financed By Others
Published by March 8th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Unknown Choppers, a Texas shop building custom choppers and frames, was looking to fund a new project called Frantom-R, an aggressive looking and sounding enclosed trike intended to provide a driving experience like no other. motorcycle or trike. Its features include a full roll cage, seat with seat belt, touch screen radio, GPS navigation, a rear view video camera, etc. (watch video after the jump)
To raise money they turned to an online company called IndieGoGo. This company, launched in 2008, is a collaborative way to fund ideas. Founded on the principles of opportunity, transparency, choice, and action, IndieGoGo provides all the tools to raise money for any new project/cause/venture. Continue reading ‘How Unknown Choppers Succeeded At Having This Trike Project 100% Financed By Others’
Hero MotoCorp To Buy Ducati? The Indian motorcycle and scooter manufacturer is in talks with several banks on raising funds for a potential acquisition of the Italian motorcycle maker Ducati Holding SpA. Private equity firm Investindustrial Holdings SpA, is looking to sell Ducati, and expects €1 billion ($1.32 billion) or 3 times its initial investment, the Financial Times had this month reported. Since last year Honda Motor Co. is no more part of a joint venture that prevented Hero MotoCorp, formerly known as Hero Honda Motors Ltd., from aggressively tapping overseas markets. Two weeks ago Hero entered into a partnership with Erik Buell Racing, where Hero would sponsor two EBR teams in the AMA Pro Racing National Guard Superbike Championship in return for technology and design support for future models.
Virginia State Prohibits Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints. Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell signed into law H.B. 187, which was introduced by Delegate C. Todd Gilbert (R-Shenandoah). The new law, which takes effect July 1, prohibits law enforcement agencies from establishing checkpoints where the only vehicles subject to inspection are motorcycles. The measure was introduced after the Arlington County Police Department set up a motorcycle-only checkpoint during the Rolling Thunder ride on May 28, 2011, that brings awareness to prisoner of war/missing in action (POW/MIA) issues. The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) opposes motorcycle-only checkpoints and has been tracking the discriminatory practice since it first appeared in New York several years ago. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Jims has an excellent proven track record with race engines and based on this experience just released a new 135″ (2.2-liter) monster that you can bolt right into a stock frame.
Built around a 4-5/16” Bore x 4-5/8” Stroke, it’s a “thick wall” engine with larger cylinders and increased fin pack for better cooling. Other features include Increased Press & Race Welded Flywheels, Billet Cam Plate with High Flow Oil Pump, Forged Rocker Support Plate with Roller Rocker Arms, ARP® Cylinder Studs and Case Bolts and much more.
This engine can conservatively produce 136 HP and 135 TQ with proper intake, exhaust and tuning. Many of JIMS® race engines are actually producing much more power with customer modifications.
The JIMS® 135” Twin Cam Race Engine is available in Black or Silver and fits all Touring and Dyna models ‘99-Present and Evo models ‘91-’99. JIMS Race Engines are not street legal and are available exclusively through Authorized Harley-Davidson® dealerships. For more information please visit us at Jims USA www.jimsusa.com or call 805-482-6913.
Marlon Brando Estate And Harley-Davidson Settle Lawsuit About Brando Boots
Published by March 7th, 2012 in Editorial, Events and Merchandise.
On May 18, 2011, I reported that Brando Enterprises LP filed a suit against Harley-Davidson Inc. (and Wolverine Worldwide Inc, which makes Harley shoes) and sought financial damages, including profits made as a result of the use without authorization of the Brando name for a pair of Harley Boots.
The Brando name had already been licensed to several companies making a range of products, including the Triumph motorcycle, which Brando rode in “The Wild One.” The companies said in a filing in federal court in California that they had settled their dispute, but did not disclose the terms of the settlement.
Harley spokeswoman Maripat Blankenheim declined to provide further details. Harley-Davidson should know better: its own licensing business is big, in 2011 generating $43.2 million selling the rights to use its name on many products including jewelry, clothing, toys, etc
Daytona Bike Week. Tropical Tattoo Chopper Time. Thursday March 15, 2012
Published by March 7th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
On Thursday March 15, from 12 pm to 4 pm all the usual suspects of the custom motorcycle scene will gather around bitching bikes at Willie’s Tropical Tattoo Chopper Time. A major event during Daytona Bike Week, the show/exhibition/happening (call it the way you want) keeps the same informal formula: custom builders, pros and amateurs, showing their “built-to-be-ridden hard” new creations on an always way-too-small parking lot square footage to fit all the admiring/drooling crowd. Roadside Marty, bands and hot babes will be there to entertain. Hot BBQ to spice the event, prizes and gear freebies to keep good memories. During this time, inking will be going on full speed inside Willie’s bunker (make an appointment right now at 386-672-1888) Address is 605 S. Younge Street (US1) Ormond Beach, FL (North Of Daytona) Tropical Tattoo
In the race among all-electric motorcycle manufacturers to produce a bike with enough juice for speed and travel range on a single charge, Zero Motorcycles just launched in North America a new model called the Zero S. The manufacturer claims that this 2012 model is capable of covering up to 114 miles or about 180km on a single 9 kWhcharge, and also has enough power to reach speeds in excess of 140 km/h. The new Z-Force power pack that the Zero S uses is capable of 3000 charging cycles, is said to last the lifetime of the bike, and can be recharged in less than four hours. The Zero S new powertrain received a new air cooled system to keep it operating at moderate temperatures, is equipped with a double diamond rear swingarm and a custom rear shock with a fully adjustable spring preload. Available in 2 power configurations, the 6 and 9kWh. Is it the future? Zero Motorcycles.
Ground Effect For Your Harley-Davidson Bagger
Published by March 6th, 2012 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
To visually lower your bagger, these 2.75″ extensions will not giving you more packing volume, but a cool bagger ground effect . They just easily bolt-on to your stock bags and being aluminum made you don’t have to paint them. Fit 1993 and up touring Harleys, except Road King. Available in raw aluminum, with or without grooves, or chrome or black with or without machined highlights. Three different exhaust cut-outs are offered: dual, single or no cut-out. All hardware included. Made in the USA. Starting MSRP is $279.95 for pair of extensions. At CycleSmiths.
Solving The Problem Of A Homeless Motorcycle
Published by March 6th, 2012 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Riding back home. No room in the garage to park your motorcycle? This retractable cover and shelter to place on your driveway or along your house may be what you are looking for.
Of course it’s waterproof, easy to use, keeping out weather, dust and debris, with the added feature of cross-ventilation preventing any inside condensation. Retractable structure makes access simple and quick (no waiting for pipes to cool).
Two Sizes Fits All: Standard/Sport and a Touring Shelter for full-dress touring bikes and ATV’s. Built-in locking hardware for added security. Diamond Tough Floor available) to prevent driveway drips LED Bright Light included for night access. Carrying Case with Handles for portability. Wheel Chock available for perfect bike placement and stabilization. At Speedway Shelters
Old Motorcycle Magazines. Is Your Motorcycle In It?
Published by March 6th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
Not to promote anyone in particular on eBay, but just because I know many of you are into collecting old print magazines, this online ad proposes 88 Street Chopper magazines, from 1970 onwards, all new because unread (!) and still in perfect condition.
So, if you want to see and remember how bikes were looking decades ago, just want to complete your collection finding a missing issue or trying to find one of your bikes featured on the cover or inside, it will cost you (starting bid) $1 per magazine. So, it’s a sentimental investment more than anything else. You’ve got 5 days left to stock on nostalgia. If interested, jump to eBay Street Chopper Magazines Auction .
Harley-Davidson New FXRG Leather Jacket With Pocket System And Helmet
Published by March 6th, 2012 in Editorial and Merchandise.
Reengineered with the newest materials and technology, the new men’s FXRG Leather Jacket with Pocket System (P/N 98040-12VM, starting at $695) is stated to deliver the next generation of riding performance. The waterproof cowhide leather is bonded to a Cocona® membrane with a Cocona-embedded mesh lining for unmatched breathability and ultimate wind- and waterproofing. A new exterior pocket system unzips to reveal multiple pockets for simplified storage and is supported by seven additional pockets. Removable, lightweight body armor at the elbows and shoulders is matched with a removable kidney belt, 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Material and a removable liner that can be worn separately. Two front vertical vents combine with two shoulder and back vents for fully-customizable cooling, while a back waist zipper attaches to an optional FXRG pant for a fully-integrated gear system. Available in S – 5XL and Tall sizes. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson New FXRG Leather Jacket With Pocket System And Helmet’
