Designed to fit on all Twin Cam air cleaners, carburated or fuel injected, these trim rings goe right on the stock twin cam air cleaner cover (not supplied) They give later model Harleys a whole new look with 2 styles to choose from, 3 or 5 spoke, either in chrome or black finish. The interchangeable screens come in black and stainless, so you can mix and match. Come complete with stainless steel mounting hardware MSRP is $118.00. Call 866-468-2925 or visit Wimmer Machine.
Archive Page 233
Accent Trims For Harley-Davidson Stock Twin Cam Air Cleaners
Published by December 25th, 2011 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Riding On Ice A Harley Panhead And A Shovel
Published by December 24th, 2011 in Editorial and Videos.For the season, something chilled… 9 minutes of 2 guys ice riding Canada between Tuktoyaktuk and Inuvik on an original kick only 1948 Harley Panhead and a “new” 2006 Shovelhead. Tires are studded and outside temperature is minus 20 F (windchill minus 25 F for the riders) Music? Of course, Giacchino Rossini, the famous score also used in the movie “Clockwork Orange”. Thanks Rob. (Another video that my online competitors are going to want to upload in their website in the next couple of hours…)
Daytona Bike Week Trademarks Canceled. Sturgis Rally Trademarks Challenged And Donations Questioned.
Published by December 23rd, 2011 in Editorial and Events.
Daytona Bike Week Trademarks. Last year, a New York-based holding company under the name of Mettemp Inc. registered the trademark Daytona Bike Week and began legal action against vendors using these terms. Immediately the regional Daytona Bike Week Chamber Of Commerce and “Good sports Of Daytona” took together a legal action to prevent this company of having any exclusive ownership of the term “Daytona Bike Week”. On Wednesday December 20, 2011 the Daytona Regional Chamber has won a landmark decision for the community: the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Cobb Cole law firm earned a hard fought victory on behalf of the City of Daytona Beach and the surrounding communities. United States District Court Judge Mary Scriven issued an order prohibiting one local company and two apparently related New York companies from claiming exclusive ownership of the term “Daytona Beach Bike Week” and from threatening others with prosecution if they did not pay for the use of the name
The judgment rendered by Court Judge Mary Scriven against the holding company Mettemp Inc. is that this company could not receive the trademark ownership “Daytona Beach Bike Week” because “Daytona Beach Bike Week” and its functional equivalents are generic and can only belong to the community and not to any one person or entity. The final judgment is canceling the defendant attempt to trademark the term “Daytona Beach Bike Week”, and finds that the registration of the phrase “Daytona Bike week” as a trademark was fraudulently obtained or, alternatively, was improperly granted.”
And of course, such a court decision will be used by the opponents of the Sturgis Rally trademarks whose owner, the SMRI Group, is currently defending a lawsuit by “Concerned Sturgis Of Sturgis” for cancellation of their trademarks also allegedly obtained fraudulently. It is interesting to note that Jerry Berkowitz (Good Sports) can be against any Daytona Bike Week trademark in Daytona, but after fighting all trademarks in Sturgis for the same reasons (the rally belongs to the community, to nobody else) has changed his tune to become one of the owners, inside the “Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc” group, of the Sturgis trademarks owners and currently printing the licensed Black Hills/Sturgis Rally logo merchandise! Continue reading ‘Daytona Bike Week Trademarks Canceled. Sturgis Rally Trademarks Challenged And Donations Questioned.’
Samson True Dual Crossover Exhaust With 4” x 30” Mufflers
Published by December 23rd, 2011 in Customs, Editorial and Exhaust.
The advantage of a True Dual exhaust is to eliminate the rear crossover pipe to the front pipe, providing for a cooler and improved ride for both rider and passenger. This new one is fitted with patented 4″ x 30″ mufflers designed to create negative pressure that scavenges exhaust gases for increased horsepower, torque (samson states + 20%) and fuel mileage and at the same time to reduce decibel levels (84 db at idle speed) without any loss in performance. Continue reading ‘Samson True Dual Crossover Exhaust With 4” x 30” Mufflers’
2011 J.D. Power Report. Bikers Spending Much More. More Satisfied With Their Motorcycle Purchase.
Published by December 22nd, 2011 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The annual J.D. Power and Associates Competitive Information Study is based on responses of bike owners who purchased their new motorcycle between September 2010 and May 2011. The study was fielded between September and October 2011. In it, a lot of pretty good news:
1- Average price of a new motorcycle purchase: a nearly $2000 increase from 2010 in the average price paid at $16,125. Customers have also spent more on motorcycle parts and accessories (+ $1349) and riding gear (+ $439)
2- Customer Satisfaction: Overall it has increased from the previous year due to a perceived better motorcycle build quality, improvements in the sales experience, cost of ownership, service and warranty offered. Satisfaction with the sales experience has improved most, increasing from 838 to 856 (on a 1,000-point scale) Build quality improves with 50% of new owners saying that they have experienced zero problem, but still with 122 problems per total of 100 motorcycles from an average of 133 in 2010. Engine related problems at 27% are the most common issues with a new motorcycle. Among these problems the most common are excessive heat, followed by unusual engine noise and excessive vibration. After engine, the largest number of complaints are about fit and finish followed by handling and braking. Continue reading ‘2011 J.D. Power Report. Bikers Spending Much More. More Satisfied With Their Motorcycle Purchase.’
For those looking for politically correct Season Greetings, an example of what you could write to your family, friends, colleagues and neighbors.
Greetings All,
Sorry for the delay…our Legal Department just approved the following Holiday Greeting:
Merry Christmas, Happy Solstice, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year, et al,
Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral, celebration of the winter solstice holiday(tm), practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all . . . and a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2012, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great, (not to imply that the United States Of America is necessarily greater than any other country or is the only “AMERICA” in the western hemisphere), and without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith, choice of computer platform, or sexual orientation of the wishes. Continue reading ‘Politically Correct Season Greetings’
Arlen Ness’ Personal Hayabusa. $7495.
Published by December 22nd, 2011 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Since yesterday, it’s listed on Craigslist and you can buy it directly from Arlen Ness. The Suzuki Hayabusa 2000 GSX-R 1300 had 15,361 miles on it before being put in storage for more than 5 years. The Ness crew handled a full service and tune up and it is stated as being absolutely perfect aesthtically and mechanically. There are quite a few options like an Akrapovic Exhaust, super light-weight racing wheels and more. Make your direct offer at Arlen Ness Motorcycles 925-479-6300.
BDL’s New GMA 500 Series Calipers For Harley-Davidson Touring Models
Published by December 21st, 2011 in Brakes, Customs and Editorial.
Designed specifically for 2008-2012 H-D Touring models, these high performance billet calipers are CNC machined and assembled at the BDL factory. They provide Bagger riders with all the benefits of cutting edge technology, the finest materials, American craftsmanship and superior performance. Each caliper has solid stopping power and reliability, nice lines and and finish. Available in either chrome or black these new calipers are supplied with mounting hardware and retail for around $760.00. Call BDL at 714-693-1313 or visit Belt Drives LTD
An upcoming Kustom Kulture documentary taking a sneak peak into the world of “Flake & Flames”is currently being produced. It features well known artists like Dirty Donny, COOP, The Pizz, Von Franco, Dan Collins, Bob Spina, Frank Kozik, Robert Kruse, Big P, Pekka Wizz, Blaster, Empire 32, Nefarious and more… A DVD will be elease in 2012 and I will update you. Director of Photography: Dirk Behlau. Music by “The Black Angels.” Watch the teaser…
Freeway Magazine 20th Anniversary.
Published by December 21st, 2011 in Customs, Editorial and Events.
At a time when so many in the motorcycle industry are struggling, and unfortunately it also includes print magazines, let’s congratulate a magazine in France (of course, no bias…) exclusively dedicated to the American V-Twin Motorcycle, right now celebrating (all types of local wines included in the party) its 20th anniversary. Freeway Magazine was launched in November 1991, exactly at the same moment Vibes was launched in Japan. 240 issues later the magazine has published 28.536 pages, filled with over 120.000 photos (they counted before the wine drinking party). Freeway has featured many international bike builders over the years and has been the first mag to publish American customizers like Billy Lane, Jesse James, etc and many more overseas. Continue reading ‘Freeway Magazine 20th Anniversary.’
Is It The World’s Finest Reusable Motorcycle Oil Filter?
Published by December 20th, 2011 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
Over 14 years now that K&P Engineering sets the industry standard with oil filter product design and technological advancements. Filter elements are made from medical grade, type 304 stainless steel micronic filter cloth to provide unmatched protection against oil contamination and resultant engine damage. A one inch square of this material flows an incredible 1.9 gallons of oil per minute at only 1 PSI pump pressure. A super strength nickel-plated neodymium rare earth magnet is installed in the top of the element for magnetic pre-filtering of the oil. The sophisticated bypass is engineered for proper differential pressures and consistent operation, delivering a greater percentage of filtered oil while being very easy to clean. Continue reading ‘Is It The World’s Finest Reusable Motorcycle Oil Filter?’
In ABS Light Case, Woman Sues And Loses Her Case Against Harley-Davidson
Published by December 20th, 2011 in Brakes, Editorial and Events.
It was an interesting legal case because jury decision could have affected production for many motorcycle manufacturers. Background: In 2009 Judy Wilson, 50, was riding on the back of her husband 2008 Road Glide when he crashed and she suffered severe brain damage. She joined her now estranged husband in a lawsuit against Harley-Davidson where both claimed that the Harley had a defective design because the tachometer was featuring an ABS icon that made them think that the Road Glide was equipped with anti-lock brakes when it didn’t.
Testimony of husband Jack Wilson was that he used the rear brake on the motorcycle thinking it had an ABS system when traffic backed up on him on the freeway. The brakes then locked up and sent the bike into a slide, throwing his wife to the pavement. His argument was that by putting an ABS icon on the tachometer, Harley-davidson suggested that the Road Glide had ABS brake. He also claimed that the HD dealer salesman who sold him his bike gave him an elbow-to-the-ribs-type aside and said ‘chicks love ABS security’. Continue reading ‘In ABS Light Case, Woman Sues And Loses Her Case Against Harley-Davidson’
Zipper’s Big Bore 88″ Engine Kit For Harley Sportster XR 1200® Models
Published by December 20th, 2011 in Customs and Engines.
New from Zipper’s Performance Products, a proven Hammer 88 Kit available for owners of XR1200® model Sportsters®! This big bore stock stroke “square” engine kit develops an excellent balance of torque and horsepower that delivers lots of arm stretching fun (see Dynojet Graphs after the jump.) The kit is supplied with Zipper’s aluminum big bore cylinders with cast-in ductile iron liners, fitted with our special 3-13/16” bore forged pistons that eliminate the need to rebalance the crankshaft, Red Shift cams, Pro-Taper moly pushrods and telescoping pushrod covers, along with CNC-ported cylinder heads equipped with oversize valves. These heads feature fully CNC-machined combustion chambers that match the pistons perfectly. Continue reading ‘Zipper’s Big Bore 88″ Engine Kit For Harley Sportster XR 1200® Models’
New Dual Source Heated Gloves From Harley-Davidson
Published by December 20th, 2011 in Editorial and Merchandise.
Riding season should never stop… To extend it, a little help from heated gloves is welcome. These new ones with full-finger warmth will help when the temperature drops.
To keep riding comfortably the new Dual-Source Heated Gloves (P/N 98216-12VM, $215) are made from 100 percent leather with tricot fleece lining and a waterproof/breathable aquatex liner for dryness, and equipped with Gerbing’s Microwire™ technology that heats the entire length of each finger and thumb.
For maximum versatility, they can be powered by the bike’s 12V electrical system or a 12V lithium rechargeable battery (sold separately). Includes a one-year limited warranty on the glove and a lifetime warranty on the heating elements. Available in S – 3XL sizes. Dual-Source Heated Gloves are available now at most Harley-Davidson dealerships.
Harley-Davidson Offering Voluntary Layoffs
Published by December 19th, 2011 in Editorial and Events.
To reduce staff at three plants in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area by about 26 percent or about 250 workers, Harley-Davidson Inc. is offering voluntary layoffs to hourly workers. giving itself flexibility to hire seasonal workers. The deadline is December 23, 2011 after which date involuntary layoffs will be implemented. The layoffs was first announced in September 2010 as part of a new seven-year contract with about 950 union workers. As of next April the manufacturer will hire 150 to 250 temporary employees for seasonal production spikes. Due to changes in its contract with Wisconsin workers, Harley expects to save $50 million annually starting in 2013. When the deal with the USW and IAM unions was struck in 2010, Harley-Davidson’s U.S. retail sales were down 12% from 2009. Harley-Davidson’s sales have recovered in 2011 but are still well below previous highs of 2005.
A majority of my fellow custom builders, as talented as they are, have difficulties or simply don’t like to explain their creations. It’s all in their mind, in their hands, and the creative itinerary to accomplish their work is so complex and wrapped in so many feelings and trials and errors, that for most, describing a logical building process is quite difficult. Others, like Paul Cavallo owner of Spitfire Motorcycles, have a very pre-established strategy and love to describe it in full. So, for this feature, I will reproduce exactly what he told me about this superb Chop called Rollin Bones.
But first, let me introduce him to you. In May of 2007 Paul Cavallo founded Spitfire Motorcycles after he parted ways with HBS Motorcycle Co. He spent the next few years cultivating a style that would replace the wide tire monstrosities that had taken over the V twin scene. Paul said “I built my first bike in 1990, a 1976 shovel that consisted of swap meet treasures from the crank to the bars. It’s funny how life comes full circle. Twenty one years later it seems like most builders are back at the swap meet, and creating their very own Frankenstein bikes in their garage. At least now we have Ebay, so you don’t have to wait all month for the swap meet…” Below, the way Paul explained to me the Rollin Bones build. Continue reading ‘Rollin’ Bones Panhead Chop’
Brake Light Switch Manifold
Published by December 18th, 2011 in Brakes, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
To cover and protect your brake light switch, a billet brake line manifold that bolt directly to the rear transmission cover bolts and is designed to be compatible with Big Twin Evo and and TwinCam setups, either left or right side drive.
It fits over your stock brake light switch offering protection and a clean look. Each includes mounting hardware and fasteners Machined in the USA. MSRP $169.95. Contact KT Components direct at 714-630-7144 or visit Kendon USA.
A New Custom Chrome Inc. For 2012: After the resignation of its President & CEO Holher Mohr, CCI owner DAE-IL has reduced CCI’s workforce by about 25 jobs. It includes reduction of collaborators in its road sales force as well as employees based at its headquarters in Morgan Hill, California. Gerry Bruce is the new nominated Vice President Of Operations responsible for the Directors and Managers of Logistics, Purchasing, Sales & Marketing.
Did Kevin and Mona Alsop Move From Big Bear Choppers To A New Bike Building Business? Fellow Moto Journalist Buck Lovell wrote this week in his website that a well informed source reported to him that Big Bear Choppers duo Kevin & Mona Alsop would now work for (without showing any ownership) in a new shop called Rage Choppers located in or around Riverside, California. The shop would build Big Bear Choppers style custom motorcycles. Coincidence? Rage Chopper was also the name of one of the models sold by Big Bear Coppers. I was unable to verify this information. During this time, those unhappy Big Bear Choppers clients who paid deposits or in full bikes never delivered at this day are trying hard, by all legal means, to get back their money. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Every year it takes 3 months to master photographer Scooter Grubb to sort, organize, upload several hundreds of his best photography on his website Scooter Shoots. His 2011 Speed Trials Yearbook includes 336 images of bikes shot at full racing speed. You can pick the image(s) of your choice, then drop him a note with the picture(s) number(s) and he will get you fixed up, just on time for the Holidays, but time is running out… Continue reading ‘2011 BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials Yearbook’
To match your bike knuckle levers or shifter handle, a menacing knuckle meat pounder for her or for him, not to fight in the kitchen but to flatten your food or your steak.
This metal meat tenderizer makes the job easier and way more fun. 41/3″H x 2″W x 2¾”D.
May or may not be legal in your jurisdiction, so remember to keep it in the kitchen. Okay?
$12.95. At What On Earth Catalog.
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. Donates $50,000 For Sturgis Rally Charities Foundation.
Published by December 17th, 2011 in Editorial and Events.
SMRi, owner of the Sturgis Rally federal trademarks, donated $50,000 to Sturgis Rally Charities Foundation with the proceeds then to be donated to local organizations. The donation is in conjunction with SMRi’s overall goal to give back to the Black Hills, a community that gave birth to and has supported the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for decades. According to a news release from SMRi, the money is from funds generated from licensing of the trademarks. A group of Sturgis residents and business owners upset with Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc.’s efforts to control merchandising during the annual event are currently taking their objections to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Continue reading ‘Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Inc. Donates $50,000 For Sturgis Rally Charities Foundation.’
URAL Sidecar And Solo 70th Anniversary Special Edition
Published by December 16th, 2011 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
In 1941, the Ural Sidecar was created through reverse engineering of the BMW R 75, with for objective to suit the needs of the Russian Red Army fighting in harsh Russian climate and terrain. The first built sidecars were sent to the front lines in February of 1942 and were used by the troops in the Battle of Stalingrad. 9,799 sidecar M72’s served in reconnaissance and dispatch detachments, and were also used to evacuate the wounded from battle fields during the World War II. 70 years later, the sidecar and 2 solo models are still produced with the company (Irbit Motoworks Factory) currently selling all it can make, about 800 bikes a year in 2010. The company still makes the frame, the engine, the transmission, the body parts, and the wheels, but is now sourcing many components from Italian, German and Japanese vendors. Continue reading ‘URAL Sidecar And Solo 70th Anniversary Special Edition’
Slim JIMS® Oil Filter Wrench
Published by December 16th, 2011 in Accessories, Editorial and Engines.
Now available, The new Slim JIMS® Oil Filter Wrench, No. 941. It is the slimmest oil filter wrench on the market. Why? Because this exclusive design makes it much easier to navigate near both the oil cooler and the crankcase position sensor, and allows you more room to work around the exhaust pipes, frame, hoses and brackets, etc.
This tool incorporates a 3/8” square drive and guarantees a good grip on any H-D spin-on oil filter with a 14-flute end. JIMS® Slim Jim Oil Filter Wrench is manufactured in the U.S.A. with an MSRP of $32.17, and like hundreds of other JIMS tools is backed by their lifetime warranty. Call 805-482-6913 or visit JIMS USA
3 Gift Ideas From Harley-Davidson
Published by December 16th, 2011 in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
1- The new men’s Reflective Skull Waterproof Hoodie (starting at $139) combines all-season comfort with long-term durability. It’s constructed from waterproof seam-sealed 100 percent knit polyester fleece in a new, softer fabric with laminated backing, and features watertight storm cuffs. Guardian Technology at the elbows and shoulders add abrasion resistance, while 3M™ Scotchlite™ Relflective Material increases reflectivity in low light. Its bungee cord and toggle hood and hem are matched with a zipper front and two zipper kangaroo-style pockets. Available in S – 5XL and Tall sizes. Continue reading ‘3 Gift Ideas From Harley-Davidson’
