The 21 Helmets Art Show paired 21 artists from the Northwest with blank, white Bell Custom 500 helmets as the canvas. The results are as varied and interesting as the artists who made them.
Archive Page 227
Sturgis Rally Trademarks Litigation. Kent Mortimer’s Answer To SMRI.
Published by February 15th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
The same way I published SMRI (Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc.) official statements against the group “Concerned Citizens For Sturgis” and specific attacks on one of its members – Kent Mortimer – regarding litigation about the Sturgis Rally Trademarks, I publish, as is, Kent Mortimer’s answer to SMRI. If you wonder why both groups talk so much in advance of a judge decision on the validity of the Sturgis trademarks obtained by SMRI, it’s of course to try to rally on their side the local population and merchandise vendors of the industry.
“Jerry Berkowitz – Volunteer or Profiteer? Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. (SMRI) has a board of eight members who are all touted as “unpaid” volunteers. Two of these board members, Jerry Berkowitz of Hot Leathers and Jim Burgess of Black Hills Harley-Davidson, fought and opposed the trademarking of the name Sturgis for many years. Why, after years of litigation, did they suddenly switch sides and now sit on the board of an organization that is doing what they previously opposed?
I just got my Hot Leathers 2012 wholesale catalog in the mail. 44 pages of this catalog are exclusively selling Sturgis rally related items (pages 254-297). This section starts with the Sturgis T-shirt labeled “# 1 Design” and goes on to list long sleeve T’s, ladies tops, sweatshirts, patches, magnets, shot glasses, hats, can koozies, ash trays, sunglasses, flags, etc… I’m sure you get the idea. Jerry berkowitz is making great deal of profit with Official Sturgis rally products! When they tell you it’s not about the money – it’s about the money! Continue reading ‘Sturgis Rally Trademarks Litigation. Kent Mortimer’s Answer To SMRI.’
Daytona Bike Week. Limpnickie Lot Under New Management.
Published by February 14th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Events.
The Limpnickie Lot, the collective of young builders and craftsmen from the custom motorcycle scene that band together to travel together to motorcycle events will be in Daytona for Bike Week at it’s original location at the Stone Edge Skate Park, on South Ridgewood Avenue.
But after five years since the inception of the Limpnickie Lot, co-founder, Chris Callen of Cycle Source Magazine has announced that he will no longer be involved with the operations or planning of the Limpnickie Lot. From this point on, co-founder Taber Nash, along with Nick Perri and Tom Freund are now handling all Lot business. Callen stated on Monday, “Because of growing obligations with the magazine, I have decided to step back from the duties associated with the Lot. However, the Lot is in great hands with Taber, Nick, and Tom. I just want to focus on the magazine.” Cycle Source will continue to work on certain promotions with the Limpnickie Lot, although nothing has been determined to that end at this time.
Progressive Suspension Touring Link Harley-Davidson Chassis Stabilizer
Published by February 14th, 2012 in Chassis, Customs and Editorial.
All touring riders know about the wobbling, weaving and rear steering felt on rubber mount Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles. To cure these handling problems, the motor/swingarm assembly needs to remain aligned with chassis.
An easy and quite inexpensive fix is to install a Progressive Suspension Touring Link to stabilize the swingarm. The simple connection between chassis & motor allows them to stay in alignment without introducing unnecessary vibrations to the rider.
Immediately you will feel improvement in the way your touring bike handles. No lost ground clearance. Forged Steel Construction and precision Rod End bearings. The Progressive Suspension Touring Link is designed to work with the original equipment frame. 1993-2008 Touring models MSRP $199.95. 2009 and newer touring models MSRP $229.95. At Progressive Suspension. (Indianapolis Dealer Expo, booth 16271)
Ducati Up For Sale $1.32 Billion.
Published by February 14th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Investindustrial, the Italian private-equity owner of Ducati is looking to sell the brand this year for up to 1 billion euros ($1.32 billion.) The Bonomi family behind Investindustrial revealed that several strategic suitors in Asia, Europe and the US had expressed an interest in Ducati. Possible buyers would include at least Volkswagen, BMW and the Indian motorcycle group Mahindra. “Ducati is now a perfect company but the further growth it requires needs the support of a world-class industrial partner,” Investindustrial’s chairman Andrea Bonomi . Last November, Ducati chief executive Gabriele Del Torchio said that the Italian manufacturer had raised its share of the markets where it operates around the world to 10.7 percent, up from 8.5 percent in 2010. Covering several market segments, Ducati’s range of motorcycles are divided into model families which include: Diavel, Hypermotard, Monster, Multistrada, Streetfighter and Superbike.
Harley-Davidson Commemorates Black History Month
Published by February 14th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
During all month of February, the Harley-Davidson Museum celebrates the evolution of motorcycle culture through the eyes of African American riders. Individuals who shaped this long and proud history are highlighted through memorabilia and first-hand accounts.
“African Americans have influenced and helped shape motorcycle culture throughout our history. Riding culture is seen differently today because of their numerous contributions to it,” said John Comissiong, director of African American outreach marketing, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. “We’re number one in sales to African Americans, and not only are we very proud of our shared history, we’re always looking for new stories to tell.” Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Commemorates Black History Month’
Harley Sportster 1200 Conversion By Deus Customs
Published by February 13th, 2012 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
I already introduced you to an excellent shop in Australia called Deus Customs. The crew lives the custom life keeping in mind the optimistic Deus Ex Machina theory (Latin for “God Out Of The Machine) by which a seemingly unsolvable problem is suddenly and abruptly solved with the contrived and unexpected intervention of some new event, character, ability, or object. And all builders will tell you that while they build a custom motorcycle up-to performance and character they pray to find this “God Out Of The Machine.” Creation after creation, building from the ground up or producing conversions, Deus Customs is always excellent at both solving technical problems and at cosmetically “tuning” their motorcycles to make them all drool-worthy. Continue reading ‘Harley Sportster 1200 Conversion By Deus Customs’
Because it’s Valentine’s Day weekend I had to post about gifts that I am pretty sure would please the lady in your life lady. It may be too late for you to order et receive on time for the big loving day on Monday Feb. 14th, but I bet she will be patient if you show her these pictures. Continue reading ‘Kustom Kulture Jewelry’
It was 1995. The first Exile Cycles custom motorcycle built in his adoptive Los Angeles. Style and colors of Exile bikes (black, silver or black) didn’t change much. But the following years, Russell’s hair style went much shorter, taking many different colors …(picture courtesy to Cyril Huze)
Vance And Hines Power Dual Exhaust For 2010-2012 Harley Baggers
Published by February 11th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
For your Harley FL, Power Duals integrates an exclusive Vance & Hines Power Chamber hidden behind a contoured heat shield that generates more horsepower and torque than stock. This new right side design eliminates the heat issues on the left side for the passenger, routing hot exhaust gases below the foot peg and protecting vital engine components and side covers from heat damage. For an even more complete performance package, pair Power Duals with any of the Vance & Hines slip-on mufflers, Fuelpak fuel management and air filter kits Duke or Drak. Power Duals is fitted with oxygen sensor ports making it a seamless power upgrade from stock. MSRP $599.95. Vance & Hines.
Builders with a twisted mind, if you can’t afford this dream tube bending machine, at least you know that you can order almost any bend from this company. (thank you Troy)
Above the Law. 2012 Daytona Commemorative By David Uhl
Published by February 11th, 2012 in Editorial and Painters.
“Above the Law” is the 8th of David Uhl‘s Daytona Commemorative Paintings. “I saw this black and white photo a number of years ago and thought it was very entertaining. I then found out it was one of the most popular photos on the Internet and felt that many people must feel the same as I about its implications. I have been toying with the idea of turning it into a piece about early 1912-ish Daytona, and finally decided the idea had to come to fruition” says Uhl. Continue reading ‘Above the Law. 2012 Daytona Commemorative By David Uhl’
Worn To Be Wild. The Black Leather Jacket Exhibit At Harley-Davidson Museum.
Published by February 10th, 2012 in Editorial, Events and Merchandise.
This summer (June 16 through Sept. 3) the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee will tell the story of the black leather jacket through its special exhibit, Worn to be Wild: The Black Leather Jacket.
From pilots to bikers, rock stars to stunt men, rebellious youth to the fashion-forward, this iconic piece of clothing has long served as an expression of style and story.
The black leather jacket, the uniform of cool, sparks a feeling, projects an image, and has evolved and stood the test of time for nearly a century.
Throughout the run of this new summer exhibit, more than 100 artifacts will be featured, including dozens of jackets, many boasting intriguing back stories. The items included in the exhibit come from Harley-Davidson’s archives, collectors, and include jackets worn by celebrities and pop culture icons such as Elvis Presley, Harry Shearer (Derek Smalls) from Spinal Tap and Taylor Lautner (Jacob) of the Twilight series. In addition to the eclectic collection of jackets, the exhibit will also use motorcycles, photographs, film footage, printed literature, advertisements and music to explore how a single article of clothing became so ingrained in our popular culture. Continue reading ‘Worn To Be Wild. The Black Leather Jacket Exhibit At Harley-Davidson Museum.’
Riding Your Motorcycle With A Child Passenger
Published by February 10th, 2012 in Editorial and Events.
The issue of motorcycle passenger safety, specifically where it concerns children and the regulations regarding helmet use and passenger age requirements, is always a hot topic. To reignate the debate, last weekend, a Tampa, Florida dad was charged with felony child neglect for riding with his 3-year old held front of him. In Florida, like in many other states (except 2), there is no restriction or legal regulation based on a minimum age to be authorized to ride as a motorcycle passenger.
As the opposite, Florida has very strict laws severely enforced regarding children traveling in cars. It includes a separate approved carrier for children 3 and under and child restraint until age 5. Florida law regarding a child passenger on a motorcycle only requires this passenger to be properly outfitted, wearing a helmet if under 21. And of course there is almost no way you can practically attach a child restraint device or special carrier seat on a motorcycle.
New York State, like Florida, has no restriction regarding age of a motorcycle passenger. Statistics from these 2 states show that motorcycle accidents involving young children are extremely rare and insignificant. Doing a little bit of research, I found out that the Florida laws applying to children traveling in cars are described as applicable to all motor vehicles. So, regarding children safety, Florida doesn’t consider motorcycles as motor vehicles… Sometimes amusing what our legislators are able to write. So, what do you think?. Should legislation be enacted or only just common sense should apply regarding young children as motorcycle passengers? (Zefa credit picture)
New BAKER Website. Driveline Options And Decisions Made Much Easier.
Published by February 10th, 2012 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
For years the BAKER Drivetrain people realized that their website was lacking some of the real meat and potatoes kind of technical information that the real Gearheads are craving for. So they assembled a team of the strongest technical and artistic minds in their company, and built an all new website that they are positive will satisfy your hunger for information, from gear ratios, proper tooth anglesand technical applications.
The Baker Website is now divided, at it is in their most recent series of catalogs, in simple categories by application type. Via drop-down menus you can find product each product, then get all details with supporting imagery and explanation of each Baker innovation. Extensive information includes gear ratios of the product, metal used, choices of case finish and even suggested product upgrades. Continue reading ‘New BAKER Website. Driveline Options And Decisions Made Much Easier.’
Engine Oil For Antique Motorcycles. Spectro Oils Answer.
Published by February 9th, 2012 in Editorial.
Question: I own five motorcycles (2 antiques) and only use Spectro oils (I picked up a case this morning). On many of these bikes I only put perhaps 1,000 miles on them or less annually. People tell me I should change the oil before putting them to bed for the winter but I don’t want to be wasteful either. What is your recommendation? Should one change oil based on time or miles? Once the bike has been ridden any miles after the oil change should it be changed again before storage? I thought I would ask the experts!
Answer: Even though you don’t roll many miles, time does count for something, as the oil does oxidize while it is just sitting in the engine. That oxidation can affect the lubricating qualities of the oil, and whatever contamination did occur during your brief riding activities also then has a long time to degrade the inside surfaces of the engine. It may not amount to much, but why not be on the safe side with your machines? That said, once a year oil changes will be fine. Continue reading ‘Engine Oil For Antique Motorcycles. Spectro Oils Answer.’
Another company named LITO, this one based in Quebec, Canada is investing in a new generation of electric motorcycle and launched the SORA, a quite sleek state-of-the-art Superbike offering some interesting features. It features a Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT) allowing you to reach a top speed of 200 km/h (about 125 miles per hour) without compromising the bike’s powerful acceleration capabilities: 0-100 km/h (about 65 miles per hour) in just 4 seconds. Continue reading ‘SORA Electric Superbike’
Harley-Davidson, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Keith E. Wandell Named Chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors. “Keith is a transcendent leader who has done an outstanding job of guiding Harley-Davidson in a period of extraordinary challenge and transformation,” said Barry K. Allen, who has served as the Company’s non-executive Chairman since 2009.”nHe added “With the Company’s tremendous progress under Keith’s leadership over the last three years, the Board believes the time is right to recombine the roles of Chairman and CEO.
Harley-Davidson Board Approves Cash Dividend Increase of 24%. The Board Of Directors approved a cash dividend of $0.155 per share for the first quarter of 2012. This represents a 24% increase over the Q4 2011 dividend ($.125) and a 55% increase over the Q1 2011 dividend ($.100). The dividend is payable March 2, 2012, to the holders of record of the Company’s common stock on February 21, 2012.
Polaris Boost Its Stock Dividend By 64%. Polaris Industries (PII) the power sports company making ATVs, snowmobiles and Victory motorcycles is increasing its dividend by a whopping 64%. The firm raised its quarterly shareholder payout to 37 cents a share, up from 22.5 cents. The 64% increase marks the biggest percentage jump since the company started paying dividends in 1995. The hike also marked the 17th straight year of a dividend increase. Polaris will distribute the payout March 15 to shareholders of record March 1. Investors need to buy the stock at least three days ahead of the record date in order to receive the dividend. At the new annual rate of $1.48 a share, Polaris offers a current yield of about 2.2%. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
A surgeon went to check on his patient after an operation. She was awake, so he examined her. “You’ll be fine,” he said. She asked, “How long will it be before I am able to have a normal sex life again doctor?”
The surgeon seemed to pause, which alarmed the girl…..”What’s the matter Doctor? I will be all right, won’t I?” He replied, “Yes, you’ll be fine. It’s just that no one has ever asked me that after having their tonsils out.”
Your kind of girl!
Harley-Davidson 70’s Chopper Attitude New Parts
Published by February 8th, 2012 in Customs, Editorial and Seats.
It was expected that with the launch of the Sportster Seventy-Two, Harley-Davidson would release a bunch of new XL custom parts to “help” owners go in the 70’s mood and attitude. Among them, 2 of the most “stereotyped” parts of this era are a metal flake seat and a single-sided swing arm bag.
The Solo Seat features a brilliant high-gloss metal flake vinyl seating surface that is finished in the classic diamond checked upholstery pattern. Fits ’04-’06 XL, ’10-later XL models with 2.2 or 3.3 gallon fuel tank. Seat width 10″. Silver charcoal. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson 70’s Chopper Attitude New Parts’
Although Thug Custom Cycles’ maestro Tom Keller calls his latest creation a Bobber, I will continue to call it a Chopper. Semantic aside, this new 23″ front wheel creation can be categorized as “new school” which is today’s definition of what is being currently created keeping some genes from the past but using the latest custom parts offered by the after-market world.
Building from the ground up one-off custom motorcycles without ever duplicating your own work is for sure the most difficult business model for any builder. Still, Tom Keller seems to have found the right balance between offering his clients unique creations without the pitfalls of over doing it to the point where clients dream but cannot afford your creations. No doubt the reason why Thug Custom Cycles is still in business and one of the very few remaining custom shops in South Florida. Continue reading ‘Thug Cycles New Chopper’
2012 Michael Lichter Sturgis Exhibition. Come Together, The Spirit Of Born-Free
Published by February 8th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Always a prominent event during Sturgis Bike Week, the annual Michael Lichter’s “Motorcycle As Art” event will return in 2012 to the Buffalo Chip’s® 7,000 square foot Exhibition Center with an all new exhibit titled “Come Together, The Sprit of Born-Free” It will celebrate freedom of expression, contemporary motorcycle design and the vision of today’s most innovative artists and custom bike fabricators. This exhibition will look at what is behind the notion that motorcycle design is as much about the culture and times it was born of as it is about the machinery itself and it will do this by looking at an emerging movement within custom motorcycling.
The Sprit of Born-Free Curator Michael Lichter explains” “Over the last few years, custom bike building has been returning to its roots. Custom bike builders have been looking back to simpler times, to motorcycling in the 1950’s-1970’s for inspiration. They are back in their small garages all across America getting their bikes to work better, look better, and represent who they are. They work by themselves and they work with their best friends. This new breed of builder is acknowledging the styles of the past as well as today’s engineering innovations and in doing this, they are breathing new life into old machines. Their creations reflect their personal stories, their friends and contemporary life they are part of. Paramount to all, they are building these bikes to ride – and they ride them hard”. Continue reading ‘2012 Michael Lichter Sturgis Exhibition. Come Together, The Spirit Of Born-Free’
Motorcycle Related Discretionary Spending Is Back
Published by February 7th, 2012 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
All numbers, including a higher measure of consumer confidence, a lower percentage of credit card debt, a lower unemployment number and Wall Street positive results, have already translated in a big rebound in discretionary spending. Even if you consider motorcycles as ultra discretionary spending, major manufacturers are already benefiting. Just look at their financial reports for 4th quarter and full year of 2011. All positive for the first time since 2007, with revenues progressing faster than anticipated.
After too many published bad news about the health of our motorcycle industry, I want to point out evidence that most companies still in business are much better companies than they were a few years ago. Let’s take Harley-Davidson as example. Retail sales have accelerated all along 2011 and Harley has significantly increased its market share in the US (55% of US market for over 650 cc) and abroad, and on the segments of young adults (18-34 yo), women, Hispanics and African-Americans. The Harley brand is succeeding in keeping its aging core riding clientele with a choice of comfortable touring motorcycles and at the same time attracting generation Y with more affordable edgy looking models. The strategy started with the introduction in 2007 of the Dark Series, then Nighsters, Forty-Eight, etc is now paying off. Last week introduction of the Sportster Seventy-Two (starting at $10,499) and of the Softail Slim (starting at $15,890) has already attracted big crowds of bikers to Harley Dealer showrooms. All feed back I get from these dealers is extremely positive with most potential clients agreeing that Harley has correctly observed and adapted to mass production the style of bikes custom built in garages and shops all around the world, that bikers want to ride and be seen with… Continue reading ‘Motorcycle Related Discretionary Spending Is Back’
New Brembo Master Cylinder And Brake Caliper
Published by February 7th, 2012 in Brakes, Editorial and Wheels.
In 2 weeks, Brembo will release a series of new braking products. For motorcycle dealers only, the company will host a press conference at the 2012 Dealer Expo in Indianapolis. The press conference is to introduce several new products for Custom Bikes, includingg a new Brembo caliper and master cylinder, as well as a new Marchesini wheel. February 17, 2012 at 2 p.m. Santa Fe Conference Room. Indianapolis Marriott Downtown hotel.
In Memoriam Of Walter Davidson (1876-1942)
Published by February 7th, 2012 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Today, February 7th, 2012, it will be exactly seventy years that died Walter Davidson, one of the four founders of Harley-Davidson.
One of my fans from Holland named Victor Willense publishes a Dutch Blog called Bikermaniac and offered me the English version of a story he wrote about Walter Davidson.
“The Davidsons’ grandparents emigrated in 1857 with their eight children from the little town of Brechin in Northern Scotland to Milwaukee, WI USA. In Milwaukee, son William married Margaret McFarlane. Besides William Jr., Walter and Arthur (co-founders of Harley-Davidson), they had three other children.
Walter Davidson started out as train engineer in Kansas. In 1903 he helped his brother Arthur and his friend William Harley to develop the first Harley-Davidson engine. As test driver he achieved numerous victories in competitions and races. Walter became president and CEO of the Harley-Davidson company in 1907. By then, the company already had 36 employees. In 1908, Walter, still unknown to the public, rode his likewise unknown Harley-Davidson in a reliability and economy race, where he scored maximum. The press was thrilled and suddenly Harley-Davidson was the number one motorcycle brand in the USA. Continue reading ‘In Memoriam Of Walter Davidson (1876-1942)’
