I met for the first time bike builder Yuri Shif in 2010 at the Sturgis AMD Championship Of Bike Building while judging his kinetic creation called “The Machine“, the kind of contraption you never forget once you saw it. Working his craft from his native east europe country of Belarus (it’s located south of Russia and east of Poland), Yuri amazed me by his mechanical knowledge, his original ideas and the quality of his fabrication work. And today he still amazes me by his ability to experiment, to jump from one style of bike to another, each time producing creations characterized by a sanitary look, perfect balance of proportions and sublime lines. Continue reading ‘Exquisite 1976 Triumph Bonneville T140’
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Exquisite 1976 Triumph Bonneville T140
Published by March 5th, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.Grand Prix. The Killer Years. Tonight Sunday March 4th, 2012 On Discovery Velocity.
Published by March 4th, 2012 in Editorial and Videos.You love racing, all kinds of racing. What about the way it was in the early 60’s and 70’s. In automobile competition, safety was an after thought. Mechanical failure, lethal track design, and lack of training caused many young drivers to perish on the track, right before fans eyes. Each Grand Prix was the most glorified – yet dangerous – mechanical sport. This shocking film explores how Grand Prix drivers grew tired of their fellow drivers – and closest friends – being killed behind the wheel. After a disturbing track record of fatalities, the prestigious Belgian and German Grand Prix would be boycotted, with drivers insisting that safety be put first. But it would be a long and painful time before anything would change, and a lot of talented young men would be cut down in their prime. Grand Prix is their story and how pilots like Sir Jackie Stewart, Emerson Fittipaldi and John Surtees, rallied to save the sport of racing. On Discovery Channel/Velocity Sunday March 4th at 8 pm (ET)
Appeals Board Will Hear Challenge to Sturgis Trademarks. The petition to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to cancel the two registered trademarks Sturgis and Black Hills has been accepted and will be heard, and it’s good news for the group “Concerned Citizens for Sturgis” opposing “Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Inc” (SMRI). Opponents to the trademarks claim that when the application to register those trademarks was initially made by the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce in 2001, everyone was using the words on items they were selling. Vendors and others had used Sturgis for patches and other products in connection with the rally as far back as the 1940s. SMRi says that not-for-profit corporation legally acquired the trademarks from the Sturgis Chamber of Commerce and that it’s important for the Sturgis community to own the trademarks. But don’t expect a judge decision very soon. The trial is scheduled to last beyond 2012, meaning that SMRI will continue to enforce its trademarks, unfairly obtained or not, during the next Sturgis Bike Week.
Harley-Davidson To Add Contract Workers In April. Harley-Davidson Inc will begin adding non-unionized contract workers at facilities in Wisconsin due to new labor contracts that take effect in April. Harley expects to have 325 fewer unionized full-time employees in Wisconsin as of April than it has had under the outgoing contract. That will open up opportunities for the use of some flexible, or contract employees, not subject to a union agreement. Harley-Davidson recently offered voluntary layoffs to unionized employees in an effort to trim its Milwaukee-area hourly workforce by about 25 percent. Overall, Harley-Davidson’s global workforce declined by about 300 people in 2011 compared with 2010. The move toward a more flexible workforce follows a push among manufacturers to transition production costs to a more variable model. For decades, the terms of union contracts sometimes have made it difficult for American manufacturers of heavier machinery and household goods to adjust headcount and other costs to meet shifts in demand. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Café Racer Style Seat For Harley-Davidson Sportsters
Published by March 3rd, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.
Are you into Café Racers? Do you love to ride your Harley Sportster for short, sharp speed trips from one bar to another like a British Ton-Up of the 70’s counter culture? Mustang released a new and comfort improved seat to make you feel like riding during the Cafe Racer bygone era. 11.5” wide. It fits 2004-12 Sportsters with both 2.25 and 3.3 gallon tanks. Classic pleated design. $309. Mustang Motorcycle Seats. MustangSeats.com 800-243-1392
There Is No Stereotypical Harley-Davidson Biker
Published by March 3rd, 2012 in Builders and Editorial.It’s what Harley tries to demonstrate in this new commercial. Some real truth about how different from each other can be Harley riders. “E Pluribus Unum”. In Latin, it means “one, out of many…”
Postcards From The Swiss Performance Show
Published by March 2nd, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.Did you know that Switzerland is the only country outside the US where Harley-Davidson tops other brands in terms of new sales? In the Swiss Confederation, Harley market share is 20%! A country loving American V-Twins with a yearly show in Zurich called Swiss Performance (Feb. 16-18) where these pictures were taken. Of course, also a lot of Italian, Japanese and Japanese custom bikes are participating. A few shots of those bikes competing for Swiss Gold. (photography courtesy of H. Roesler)
“White Snake” was the big winner and built by Bundnerbike, an official Harley-davidson dealer. 300 mm rear tire is still popular in Europe…
Hard Nine Choppers proved again that the Yamaha XS 650 is still a popular choice for customizers. A complete engine restoration in a new custom rigid frame turned it into a hard core street bike.
A very cool 1946 Harley Flatty by Markus Humbel with discrete modifications to not alter its authenticity. Continue reading ‘Postcards From The Swiss Performance Show’
BAKER Bully Primary Cover For Touring 2007-Up Models
Published by March 2nd, 2012 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
An enclosed primary cover is the biggest, most visible piece of motorcycle architecture on the left side of your touring bike and the new one introduced in 2007 by Harley-Davidson on its 6-speed tourer models is particularly bland. Two good reasons to upgrade and replace it. Combining form and function, BAKER”s Bully Primary Cover is not only much more pleasing to the eyes but adds both a motor sprocket and inspection cover (opening customization possibilities) and what Baker calls the Bell Housing around the clutch to break up the large mushy surface area of the stock unit. Continue reading ‘BAKER Bully Primary Cover For Touring 2007-Up Models’
Broadcast Of 2011 Live Performances From The Legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip Begin This Sunday March 4th on HDNet
Published by March 2nd, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
Rod Woodruff, president of The Legendary Sturgis Buffalo Chip announced the premiere broadcast dates for 4 live concert performances recorded in high definition during the 2011 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Called the Sturgis concert series at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The shows will be broadcast in high definition on HDnet. The first, the LIVE concert performance of George Thorogood & The Destroyers, is scheduled for broadcast this Sunday, March 4th at 8:00pm. The other three live concerts are scheduled for the following three Sundays in March.
Thorogood helped celebrate the Chip’s 30th anniversary by performing all of his hits, including “Bad to the Bone”, “I Drink Alone” and instant classics from his latest album 2120 Michigan Avenue. “George is one of rock ‘n rolls greatest live performers. Put him in front of thousands of roaring motorcycles, tens of thousands of his biggest fans, add a few cold beers and, well, it’s just the best party anywhere”, explains executive producer Rod Woodruff, also the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s President and CEO. Other shows will feature concerts by Gregg Allman, Jeff Bridges and Stevie Nicks with John Fogerty, acts who joined the 2011 concert lineup that included Def Leppard, Toby Keith, Poison, Alice Cooper and dozens more. The Buffalo Chip’s annual music festival has already announced The Zac Brown Band, Boston and Sugarland as part of its 2012 musical lineup. More information is available at Buffalo Chip or at 605.347.9000.
2012 Daytona Bike Week. Victory Activities March 10-17.
Published by March 1st, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
March 10-17. Victory Demo Rides at Daytona Motor Speedway. Be one of the first to test ride the 2013 Victory Judge or other Victory models in Datona. Victory will be taking ride photos all week long that you can download and share with online friends. Get your picture on a Victory ride.
March 13. Victory Bike Night and music by Big Engine at Dirty Harry’s Bar. March 14. 3rd Annual Victory Custom Bike Show at Volusia Motorsports. Registration 2-3 pm. Judging 3 pm. March 16. Victory Owners Pre-Party & Ride with Zach Ness at Volusia Dealership. Ride ends at Halifax. Kickstands up 10 am. Ride ends 12.00 pm. March 16. Victory Owners Luncheon at Blue Grotto Halifax Marina. 12 am – 2 pm. Victory Motorcycles.
Twisted Mind Billet Aluminum Parts
Published by March 1st, 2012 in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
During the last 5 years, from their 10,000-square-foot Gilbert, Arizona facility Precision Billet has machined some of the fines quality and innovative billet parts, marketed under their own brand name or as signature products for other well known companies. For those in custom billet aluminum custom parts, they released several lines of very twisted parts. named Aces Wild, Afterlife, Darkside, Grand Prix, The Fleur. Continue reading ‘Twisted Mind Billet Aluminum Parts’
Jay Allen To Emcee The Nights Of The Boot Hill Saloon During Daytona Bike Week 2012
Published by March 1st, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
If you are in Daytona Beach for Bike Week looking for some downtown entertainment, walk down Main Street, south side, until you reach the iconic Boot Hill Saloon. The Boot Hill Saloon is the long standing traditional first stop when you arrive at Daytona and the ultimate biker hangout on Main Street. Jay Allen, known for his unique approach to interactive motorcycle entertainment and for throwing high octane parties, will emcee each evening party. “We are thrilled to have Jay as our emcee at Boot Hill for Bike Week. He has a dynamic personality and he’s well known in the motorcycle community” said Karin Gehris, owner of the Boot Hill Saloon. “I’m going to light this place up!” said Jay allen. No doubt that the loyal fans of the Jay Allen legacy at the Broken Spoke Saloon will find their way to the Boot Hill Saloon to party with the Daytona Master of Ceremonial biker-style parties.
Harley Biker With “No Tag” License Plate Gets Tickets For Vehicles He Doesn’t Own
Published by March 1st, 2012 in Editorial and Videos.Kirk Thor is a doctor in Texas who loves using vanity plates on his vehicles, including on his Harley-Davidson. He paid extra to get “No Tag” on his Harley.
When writing tickets for cars without license plates.police officers and deputies are writing down “No Tag” in the plate description. So, he receives tickets from all over the country ranging from $300 to $600 for vehicles he doesn’t own. So far, he didn’t pay any of them…
Moto Mucci Urban Vintage Custom Honda CX500
Published by February 29th, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Your first custom built may be either your last one or the beginning of a long series. You are looking at the 1st creation of Dave Mucci and I can already tell you that it will not be his last one. Under the influence of a professor teaching him a class in motorcycle design while studying industrial design in Michigan, Dave developed a passion for vintage cars and motorcycles. Like many young builders with no support money, he was looking for a cheap and reliable platform to build his first creation, a contraption that he didn’t want too pretty, too shiny, but able to endure daily rides in a vey hostile Chicago weather and on not so friendly roads. Continue reading ‘Moto Mucci Urban Vintage Custom Honda CX500’
Daytona Broken Spoke Chopin’ Block Ride-In Bike Show
Published by February 29th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
On Friday March 16th, 2012, the Broken Spoke Saloon of Daytona organizes a “Chopin’ Block” ride-in bike show.
Sign-in is 3 pm to 6 pm with awards (made by Fab Kevin) given away at 7.45 pm. Door prizes and an Evil Engineering belt drive system will be awarded to one of the show entries.
Other events of interest are a ride to Willie’s Tropical Tattoo Chopper Time on Thursday March 15th (kickstands up at 10 am) and a Cathy’s Help Foundation Ride lead by Jeremy Johnson of Muttin Cycles (TBA date)
The Broken Spoke Saloon is located 1151 North US Highway 1 in Ormond Beach, Florida 32174
Strokers Dallas Has 3 Job Openings. Rush To Apply.
Published by February 29th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
Because so many still have a tough time finding a job corresponding to their qualification, I will make an exception and run again a classified, this time for Strokers Dallas.
Rick Fairless is offering 3 full time positions. 1- An experienced Metal Fabricator/Welder. 2- An experienced Motorcycle Technician. 3- An experienced Tattoo Artist. In addition to qualifications, you will have to demonstrate your passion for the industry and prove that you are a very hard worker. In Rick’s words “lazy asses don’t need to apply!” Don’t call. Send full resume directly to rick@strokersdallas.com.
ThunderMax Performance for Harley-Davidson® EFI Trike Models
Published by February 28th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Funny to realize that trike owners erroneously think that what works for 2-wheel motorcycles will not necessarily work on their 3-wheelers…Regarding dramatically improving throttle response and overall performance, ThunderMax with AutoTune for Harley-Davidson® EFI Trike Models replaces the factory ECM with the user-friendly ThunderMax ECM. Continue reading ‘ThunderMax Performance for Harley-Davidson® EFI Trike Models’
Harley-Davidson Sparkling Old-School Metal-Flake Paint Jobs in 12 Color Combinations
Published by February 28th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Painters.
Metal flake, an iconic design element of the ’70s, is back in the 2012 Harley-Davidson Color Shop offering. Twelve sparkling two-tone Hardy Candy Flake Core Series with full paint sets ranging in price from 2,299.95 to $4,399.95.
Hardy Candy Flake is created in a multi-step process that begins by laying several passes of silver micro flake over a silver base, which is then topped with clear coat.
The scallop pattern is hand-laid and masked, and color is next applied in a candy coat that allows the flake to show through.
The design is then clear coated, hand striped, and clear coated again to give it the final smooth, deep finish. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Sparkling Old-School Metal-Flake Paint Jobs in 12 Color Combinations’
Leading Lady Cris Sommer Simmons By David Uhl
Published by February 28th, 2012 in Books, Editorial, Events and Painters.
While in Sturgis, I saw David Uhl still working on this new masterpiece oil painting named “leading Ladies” The idea for this portrait of Cris Sommer-Simmons germinated when David joined both the start and finish of the inaugural Cannonball Run, in which Cris was the only American woman toparticipated. Her impressive 20th place finish paid tribute to her idol and the namesake of her 1915 Harley-Davidson, Effie Hotchkiss, who became the first woman to ride cross country in 1915.
As David Uhl states, “The Cannonball was like no other event I have ever witnessed. I was fortunate enough to be both at the start in Kitty Hawk and the finish In Santa Monica. Kitty Hawk was a great opportunity to photograph the anticipation and the camaraderie developing between many of the participants. I was especially interested in Cris Sommer Simmons as she has a very special passion in common with me. She happens to love the romance of the history of women on motorcycles as much as I do. Enough for her to have composed a beautiful book on the subject –“The Cannonball Diaries”– which sits next to my easel (photography by Michael Lichter) Having this lovely slice of history in common with her has inspired me to do this painting of her. She was originally inspired by the story of Effie Hotchkis, and even adopted one of Effie’s rituals, which especially intrigued me. Just as Effie did, Cris filled a small vial with water from the Atlantic Ocean and kept it with her throughout the entire journey to finally release it’s contents into the Pacific Ocean.” Continue reading ‘Leading Lady Cris Sommer Simmons By David Uhl’
Sturgis Motorcycle Hall Of Fame 2012 Inductees
Published by February 28th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
It is the time of the year when Christine Paige Diers, Executive Director of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, announces this year’s inductees to both the Sturgis Hall Of Fame and the Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame. Below her press release.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame is designed to recognize individuals or groups who have made a long term positive impact on the motorcycle community. The Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame recognizes the commitment and sacrifices individuals across the nation, and world, have made to protect the rights of motorcyclists. For 2012, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame will honor one Freedom Fighter and induct six into the Sturgis Hall of Fame.
Rodney Roberts – Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame – Rodney Roberts has spent countless hours fighting for motorcyclists rights since the late 1980s. In 1995, the federal helmet law was repealed, paving the way for states to repeal their individual helmet requirements. Rodney had been working in the state legislature to build relationships and educate lawmakers in preparation for the time when the federal law was repealed. In large part because of his efforts, the state of Arkansas became the first state to repeal its helmet law in 1997. But Rodney didn’t stop there – he continues to fight for motorcyclists rights in the Arkansas General Assembly any time a law impacting motorcyclists comes up.
Dave Barr – Dave Barr may not be the person you’d picture as an avid motorcyclist, but he certainly is that. In 1981, Dave lost both of his legs in a landmine explosion while serving in Angola. Since that time, Barr has become an inspiration to people facing physical challenges as well as those who are not. He’s ridden around the world, across Russia in the dead of the Siberian winter, and to the four farthest points of Australia. He’s written books, produced documentaries, earned two Guinness World Records and established Patriot Express, a foundation that supports Fischer House in its mission to assist military servicemen and their families during hospitalization and unexpected injury or illness. Continue reading ‘Sturgis Motorcycle Hall Of Fame 2012 Inductees’
How come I have forgotten about this cute boardtracker sitting since a long time in my digital files. The kind of bike you imagine could have been discovered in an old barn in the middle of nowhere, then immaculately restored after months of intense labor. As a matter of fact, “Ode To A Legend” was built from the ground up by René Van Tuil in a small village of the Netherlands counting less than 1000 inhabitants. Not a smaller task than a restoration when you realize about much of the bike is painstakingly hand fabricated. Continue reading ‘Ode To A Legend Board Tracker’
Selling Motorcycles, Parts And Accessories To Generation C
Published by February 26th, 2012 in Editorial.
The letter C (as connected, or computer control key) is the one officially chosen by Nielsen to represent the generation born between the launch of the VCR and the commercialization of the Internet.
These unique consumers between the age of 18 and 34 are taking very seriously information content and their personal connections with each other to new levels, using new online devices and sharing experiences like no other age group.
Americans 18-34 make up 23 percent of the U.S. population. Not surprisingly, they don’t read print magazines and don’t listen to radio. They represent an outsized portion of consumers, only reading news on the web (95%), watching online video (27%), visiting social networking/blog/daily new sites (57%), owning tablets (33%) and using a smartphone (39%). Their ownership and use of connected devices makes them incredibly unique consumers, representing both a challenge and opportunity for marketers and news content providers alike. Generation C is engaging in new ways and there are more online means for marketers to reach them (of course, like this daily motorcycle news magazine…) They treat content as collaborative and recombinant, want to participate and address media content via comments and discussion. They love their 15 seconds online fame when their remarks and comments are published. They have an insatiable appetite for creativity in online content. It’s all in the palm of their hands… Continue reading ‘Selling Motorcycles, Parts And Accessories To Generation C’
Daytona Bike Week Harley-Davidson Activities (March 10-17, 2012)
Published by February 26th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
During Daytona Bike Week, official Harley-Davidson events will be held again both at the Riverfront Park on Beach Street and at the Daytona International Speedway.
Riverfront Park On Beach Street (9 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily) H-D1 Factory Customization display. The latest in parts and Accessories. Harley Owners Group (HOG) Commemorative Pin Stop. Women’s area featuring bike lift seminars and the Interactive Jump Start motorcycle experience. 5th Annual H-D MDA Women’s Ride Daytona on Tuesday March 13. New Motor Clothes Collections, helmet fittings, new line of FXRG products.
Daytona International Speedway (9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily) Interactive 2012 Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle display. 2012 Harley-Davidson motorcycle demo rides. Harley Owners Group® (H.O.G.®) Commemorative Pin Stop. Harley-Davidson® Fit Shop motorcycle display and more.
Rivera Primo TransparaGuard For Your Open Belt System
Published by February 25th, 2012 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
We all know that open belt systems look very cool, but moving parts being exposed can be quite dangerous for your left foot and leg… Moving belts love so much your pants. Yes, injuries happen. Some belt guards and covers minimize this risk, but what they provide in extra security goes against the beautiful appearance of the moving belt and pulleys. So, why not encase all the open belt system in an all inclusive clear cover, for example in polycarbonate? It is the new idea offered by Rivera Primo. Now you can watch, but not touch, even by accident… Continue reading ‘Rivera Primo TransparaGuard For Your Open Belt System’
Harley-Davidson Modernized York Plant. Exporting The American Dream…
Published by February 25th, 2012 in Builders and Videos.2012 Daytona Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show And Cafe Racer Showdown
Published by February 24th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The Rat’s Hole Show, the Grand Daddy of all custom motorcycles competition will be held on Saturday March 17th, 2012, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Same location and formula: great setup at the Daytona Lagoon Waterpark (public entrance on Earl Street next to Parking) and a plethora of custom bikes from Bobbers to Choppers to Cafe Racers to the strange and weirdest mechanical contraptions one can imagine, food, M?C Radical Randy…and the bikini Rat’s Mates.
In addition to the world famous Rats Hole Custom Bike Show featuring most of the best custom bikes in the nation in 23 different classes, the Rat’s Hole will have a special event, the “Cafe Racer Bike Showdown.” 4 top builders competing for your vote to win the coveted “Showdown Champion” title and trophy. The Winner will be determined by people vote. Everyone who comes through the front door will receive one ballot ticket to vote for the bike that they like the best. Continue reading ‘2012 Daytona Rat’s Hole Custom Bike Show And Cafe Racer Showdown’
2012 Harley-Davidson New Bike Sales Up About 30%. Inventories Sharply Down.
Published by February 24th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
From January 1st through mid-February 2012, a Harley-Davidson dealerships survey by Wisconsin-based Robert W. Baird, a wealth management, capital markets, asset management and private equity firm, reveals that sales of new motorcycles were up about 30% nationwide.
A renewed consumer confidence (unemployment at a 4-year low, positive US stock market with Dow Jones Index up 63% since 2008), better and cheaper models in phase with what bikers can afford and want to ride, a very mild winter especially in the Midwest, all helped produce robust new Harley bike sales. Continue reading ‘2012 Harley-Davidson New Bike Sales Up About 30%. Inventories Sharply Down.’
