Those not in motorcycle racing have never heard the name Akrapovic. A couple of months ago, I introduced you to this European company because its experience and high quality reputation with numerous teams in the Pro Superbike championship (Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, Ducati, Honda), is now associated with new exhaust systems specifically conceived for most Harley-Davidson Sportster, Softail, Dyna and Touring models. After conquering many markets around the world, Akrapovic (means Scorpion, surname of company’s founder and former racer Igor Akrapovic)) has began a US operation this summer in Irvine, California and intends to use its 21-year old well known reputation for perfectionism to conquer a big share of the US V-Twin custom exhaust market.
Akrapovic promises original designs, high end stainless steel and carbon fiber materials, better bends and welds and of course enhanced performance of more power, torque and throttle response throughout the entire rpm range … and a unique European soundtrack. As an example, featured here is the Akropovic System with muffler insert for the Harley-Davidson Road King Classic. All Akrapovič Open Systems include header, silencer and heatshield with optional noise reduction insert also available. To check on improved performance Dynojet mappings are available for all products. After you make the jump, see the one of this exhaust on the Road King Classic . Continue reading ‘Akrapovic Exhaust Systems. Remember This name.’
No Major Motorcycle Manufacturer Can Really Expand Staying Out Of India. A few numbers: India’s economy has surged 8% a year over the past decade, the second-fastest rate of growth in the world after China. At that pace, it could become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030. Over the past 20 years, the population in India’s cities has grown by 120 million. The number of Indians in urban centers is expected to grow by another 250 million to 40 per cent. 40,000 miles of brand new 4 & 6-lane highway and multiple overpasses are being built at a rapid clip. As aspirational rural Indians move to the cities, India’s burgeoning middle class is snapping up motorcycles and cars faster than roads can be built. I was about to forget that Indian has a population of 1.2 billion… Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Of interest to all US companies wishing an opportunity to show their motorcycles, parts and accessories to the European public, distributors and media representatives, the Motor Bike Expo of Verona, Italy (January 20-22, 2012), one of the largest motorcycle shows in the world attracting over 120,000 visitors, offers for the 1st time turnkey booth packages at very reasonable prices, starting at 1282 euros (about 1750 US dollars.) Packages start at 8 square meters (about 86 sq. feet) and include: Booth space, Signage, Carpet, Electric, Counter, Stool, Lockable storage, Shelving, Wastebasket, -Central information station. Just bring or ship your products. Continue reading ‘Motor Bike Expo Italy Announces Access USA.’
Drain plug. Not the most sexy of all custom parts, but the only accessory you can add to your motor/engine, that will actually extend the life of your vehicle, regardless if it’s an automobile or motorcycle, or lawn mower or what you have with an engine. A company called Drain Plug Magnets makes high powered magnetic drain plugs keeping the grit out of the engine that passes through virtually any oil filter on the market… The key is the N45SH Neodymium magnets that are not only powerful, but unaffected by high temperature, similar to what you would find in engine /transmission oil. High end “Electroless Nickel” protective finish, that outlasts all protective Zinc Chromate coating. You an order by thread size for Harley and Metric bikes. Drain Plug Magnets.
The Softail Blackline was conceived by Harley-Davidson “pared to the bone with visual elements of the original bobber movement combined with a raw style embraced by today’s young bike builders.” Customizing it is to challenge yourself not only to preserve the bike raw personality but also to emphasize it with cosmetically more pleasing lines and parts, but without adding anything unnecessary, reflecting the true spirit of the long black road…
Todd Silicato, ex race engine builder and ex head of R&D for Performance Machine, and now custom builder and owner of Todd’s Cycle, knows quite a few things about old school craftsmanship and how to blend it with modern, state-of-art technology. It’s what his own style is all about and reflected not only in his 2-wheel creations but also in his proprietary line of parts. So, the Blackline model may have been the perfect canvas for Todd to show all owners of this model how you can improve a stock bike without changing its spirit, of course using his own parts… and without breaking the bank. Continue reading ‘Custom Harley-Davidson Blackline. In The True Spirit Of The Long Black Road.’
Spoke wheels are back with a vengeance, but the new generation will be rejuvenated with new spoke and nipple designs, aluminum rims for anodizing (black Ops) and polishing combinations (Contrast Cut) , etc. Above, 2 shots from new billet aluminum wire wheels by Performance Machine These new wheels should be available beginning of 2012… or sooner. To follow…
Harley-Davidson MotorClothes is launching 30 items invoking a classic image of military gear. Among them, the following.
Military Inspired Leather Bomber Jacket. Made in the USA of imported materials and limited to just 500 units, this Leather Bomber Jacket (P/N 97109-12VM, starting at $900) is an authentic replica of the distinct, durable jackets worn by the original aviators. It’s made from supple mid-weight leather and matched by a 50/50 nylon/acetate lining with custom embroidery. Rib-knit cuffs and waist complement the snap-down removable shearling collar and the two snap patch pockets with side entries. H-D patches decorate the chest and sleeves, while a custom interior patch states “Limited Edition: 1 of 500.” Available in S – 3XL sizes. Cotton Canvas Functional Jacket (P/N 97270-12VM, starting at $250) matches technical riding features with authentic military style. Its 100 percent cotton canvas construction is complemented by a polyester/spandex lining. Vents at the pre-curved sleeves and back are matched with body armor pockets, adjustable snap sleeves and waist tabs, plus five spacious pockets. Snap epaulettes on the shoulders, rivet accents around the pockets and a combination of patches and embroidered graphics. Available in S – 3XL sizes. Continue reading ‘New Harley-Davidson Military Inspired Collection’
This post to show you that our American Custom Motorcycle Industry is hard at work beyond our US Borders. This weekend (Nov. 4-6) European parts distributor Zodiac, in association with Dutch magazine Big Twin was running its dealer show near Eindhoven, Netherlands. An American presence with many American manufacturers, most of them now on their way to Italy for this weekend EICMA in Milan. Continue reading ‘Postcards From 2011 Big Twin Bike Show & Zodiac Dealer Expo In Netherlands’
South Carolina husband and wife Ed and Tammy build for fun their own electric motorcycles for a very modest budget. They decided to build an electric Cafe Racer in the style of the Triumphs of the 70’s and starting from a 1978 Honda CB750 costing them only $250 they arrived to finish EV motorcycle featured here. And this very nice couple are nice enough, although in a very amateurish website, to explain to you how they did it and how you could also build yours. So, I will not repeat. Before you bug Ed and Tammy for more advice, just a warning before you are getting started. There is a lot of voltage on an electric bike. Wired incorrectly, these batteries can seriously injure or kill you. Summary explanation at: Juiced Drag Racing
On October 25th, I announced the annual Wheels Through Time Museum Raffle with the winner receiving this November 12 a gorgeous restored 1936 Harley-davidson EL 61 c.i. Knucklehead.
It’s still time to buy tickets by jumping HERE. And the extra good news is that the winner will receive a print of his bike from this painting completed yesterday evening by Master Painter David Uhl.
David wrote to me: ” Cyril. I have been here night and day, but here it is. I know it looks like a photograph, but that is because it’s so accurate. The actual oil painting is quite rich and has a life far beyond any photo. I couldn’t help myself, it was so lovely I had to give the machine it’s due. I called this painting “Knuckle of Autumn” Every now and then I have to paint ultra realistic to ground myself.
There will be a few prints for those who care for one. Contact Uhl Studios
From custom builder Eddie Trotta, a new way to dress your bagger front end and exhaust system. A little bit of bling, not too much, with these Rolex Fork Bells and matching Rolex Tips that you can easily install on 3.5″ or 4″ Rinehart end pipes and most after-mart slip-ons. Sold in pair in black or chrome. MSRP $275. 2 other designs are available. Made in the USA. At Thunder Cycle Design 954-763-2100
Lehman Trikes Inc., calling itself the “Leader Of The Three World” and specializing in trikes, trike kits and conversions, issued a press release to investors signed by its President Kennon D. Hines, in which the company announces that it is looking for strategies to enhance shareholder value. Options include the possibility of selling, a strategic business merger with cost saving initiatives. Lehman Trikes Inc. stock (OTC Symbol LTRKF) lost 97.55% of its value in 5 years and 54.77% during the last 12 month. Market capitalization (shares x price of share) seems to be under $500,000.
The company was originally founded and established in 1985 by John Lehman in a rural community of Alberta, Canada. Using his garage as a workshop, and a 1981 Honda CB900 as a donor nike, he had successfully achieved his goal, to build a very comfortable 3-wheeler. Progressively Lehman Trikes achieved recognition throughout the motorcycle community for innovation, leadership, and advancement of three-wheel motorcycles. Now based in Spearfish, South Dakota, Lehman has grown to become a publicly traded company. After the jump, I publish in full the Lehman press release addressed to investors. Continue reading ‘Lehman Trikes Looking For Investment, Strategic Merger Or Selling The Company.’
This short movie clip by independent filmmaker Scott Toepfer was chosen by corporate Harley-Davidson as example of the Harley culture in the 21st century. From Los Angeles to Reno, through Yosemite to San Francisco, and then south back home on the Pacific Coast Highway, and between stopping by ghost towns (the one featured is Bodie) Towns on which Western films were based on and where men made instant wealth only to squander it on the vices of their choosing, and move on. There is a violent truth to ghost towns where people struggled to survive with what they could make with their hands…
Ever noticed Hollywood uses any excuse to pat each other on the back with awards? Well guess what, Cycle Source Magazine is doing it again, but their awards are for the “real deals”, the hard-working everyday enthusiasts that make our industry the “exciting, wouldn’t miss it for nothing” world that it is today. So here is your chance to cast your vote for “Best Of 2011” in categories like “Best Manufactured or Custom Bike of the year, Best Pin-Up, Builder, Craftsman or Best Event. Continue reading ‘Cycle Source Magazine Best of 2011 Awards’
Frank Esposito is President Of Kendon Trailers And Lifts. He just wrote an interesting piece about trailering your bike(s) to your destination. Of course, his writing has for objectives to promote his company and products. But he makes some valid arguments about the advantages of trailering.
Since hauling or not is an age-old passionate debate dividing bikers with on one side the hardcore motorcyclist who does not want to hear the word “trailer” and who is willing to ride anywhere and everywhere, no matter what the distance may be, and on the other the avid rider looking only for the best riding available., I think that this Esposito’s piece is an interesting support to let you debate again on this hot topic… Continue reading ‘Motorcycle Trailers Enhancing The Riding Experience?’
The new “Sidewinders” exhaust (two individual pipes on one side), is part of Samson Legend Series for most Harley-Davidson Softails. The Sidewinders offer Samson’s exclusive Quad Chrome plating that provides ultimate adhesion and corrosion protection. (Sinister black ceramic finish available upon request) Designed, tuned and dyno tested to produce maximum horsepower, torque and awesome sound. The removable 2 ½” massive one-piece heat shields are pre-installed and the system is ready to bolt on right out of the box. Fits 2012 Harley Davidson Softail Motorcycles, 2006 and earlier models require O2 sensor plugs, purchased separately. Samson USA 888-572-6766
Question: This may be a ridiculous question, but I would like to know the correlation between air/fuel ratio and oil/fuel ratio rich/lean mixture. Is it acceptable to lean out the oil/fuel ratio from that of the manufactures recommendation to compensate for rich running conditions. I use Golden Spectro 2stroke oil in my ’99 KDX 200. Manufacturer recommends 32:1,I run the Golden Spectro at 40:1 and sometimes leaner and I find this to be acceptable by reading my spark plug. Please, could you inform me if I’m off track?
Answer: Its not a ridiculous question and you are right on track. Golden Spectro is ideal at 50:1 in the KDX 200 and the affect on fuel mixture is as follows: A change from 32:1 to 50:1 oil fuel mix = 1% in percentage of oil present. 50:1 = 2% oil and 32:1= 3% oil So, at 50:1 you are 1% richer on FUELfollow that? 1% less oil = 1% more fuel. Continue reading ‘Did You Know? Engine Air/Fuel Ratio.’
He is well known for being the one million dollar winner of the reality TV show Survivor. He is also faithful visitor to the Sturgis Rally where he is participating in several rides to raise money for charities like the Legend’s Ride, and devote his life helping mentally handicapped children and troubled young adults expelled from school. Nicknamed the Gentle Giant, if you meet him in person, you will never forget his friendly personality, his very distinctive appearance, beard, grimaces and tie-dye shirt that he will always wear even with a tuxedo…
Rupert Boneham, 47 announced that he is running for Governor Of Indiana as a Libertarian. In his official website he writes, “I have spent my entire adult life serving my community and I see an opportunity to make a difference for Indiana,” referencing his troubled-youth charity, Rupert’s Kids. “While surveying the current choices for our next Governor, I do not see anyone that has an understanding of what daily life is like for many It is obvious that career politicians are not the answer because they are often the problem. Sometimes, some of these career politicians, these multimillionaires that are getting into office, have forgotten what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck”
As I reported before, not much could be done by Polaris between April of this year, when the company bought all Indian Motorcycle assets, and today. The 2012 Polaris built Indians are limited to 3 models, The Vintage, The Classic and The Dark Horse. No radical changes, but all have received about 12 small technical improvements. They are all powered by the same 105″ (1750 cc) 45-degree Powerplus engine. Prices are unchanged starting at $26,499 for the Indian Chief Classic, at $27,999 for the Indian Dark Horse in matte black, at $35,999 for the Indian Vintage model in solid colors ($900 extra for 2-tone paint scheme) Continue reading ‘2012 Polaris Produced Indian Motorcycles.’
Powder coating is winning against chrome plating. Seems that everybody is loving black parts, and they are much more riders friendly than chrome ones. So, Rivera Primo Inc.®, like so many other vendors, now offers its popular Brute IV Extreme™ Open Belt Drives in Matte Black powder coat finish.
They went with powder coating due to its extreme ability to withstand severe usage and weather versus anodizing which typically fades to a non-descript color when exposed to elements like sun, salt, etc… Continue reading ‘Black Drive’
“Bloomberg The Mentor” is a new program on Bloomberg Television starting November 4th at 9 PM. In this financial TV show small businesses entrepreneurs get help from CEOs of some of the best-known companies in the nation. Top corporate executives come to the rescue, offering advice and a new strategy. Motorcycle manufacturer Big Bear Choppers is owned by Kevin and Mona Alsop. After soaring sales in their first 3 years, the economy hit them hard and now they’re struggling. The first advice, among many they received from PELI Products CEO Lyndon Faulkner (also former General Manager Americas Operations Group Of Microsoft) was to reach out to their current customers and to prepare a new business plan to look for an investor.
Three new seminars are announced for the 12th annual V-Twin Expo in Cincinnati, OH February 4-6, 2012. “Each year we work closely with V-twin dealers to create and deliver relevant seminars that assist them in their efforts to grow their business or improve overall operations. By inviting industry experts as our seminar panelists, we deliver informative, interactive and pertinent seminars to attending dealers. We are confident these new seminars will meet their needs.” explained Show Producer Jim Betlach. New for 2012 are the following three new seminars. Additional seminars to be announced later this year. Continue reading ‘V-Twin Expo New Seminars For Attending Dealers’
Nevada’s helmet law was originally enacted in 1972 and all efforts until now to repeal it have failed. But this situation could change if a lawsuit filed by a dozen local bikers is successful.
In a suit filed last week in U.S. District Court against the Clark County, Nevada and five cities within this County (Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Mesquite and Boulder City), the plaintiffs say helmet law enforcement efforts violate their Fourth Amendment protections from illegal search and seizure. In it, bikers claim an ongoing pattern and practice of issuing helmet that are not supported by constitutionally sufficient probable cause, thereby violating their civil rights. Continue reading ‘Bikers Sue Nevada Cops Over Helmet Law Enforcement’
Douglas Wozney just released a unique chin fairing for 2009 and newer Harley-davidson FL models equipped with the stock oil cooler. More than just a piece for dressing up the front of your bike, this one is aerodynamically designed to provide a laminar air flow to the oil cooler. It means that air flows in parallel layers, with no disruption between the layers. The outboard ducts grab cooling air and force it through the oil cooler rather than leaving the oil cooler ‘searching’ for cool air behind the front tire, while the mesh screens help keep road debris out of the oil cooler.
Another major design feature is that this chin will not interfere with your stock fender when front suspension is in full compression. Easy to bolt-on, it is delivered with the mounting hardware and mesh screens and ready for paint. MSRP $379.00 plus shipping. At Dougz Custom. 608-783-3684.
When on September 28th, 2011 the popular Discovery Channel Mythbusters show ran a segment called “Motorcycle Greener Than cars?“, results were not so favorable to motorcycles qualified as not better than cars, even worse. The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) wrote the following answer.
“The Hosts ran a number of somewhat scientific tests on a few motorcycles to measure single vehicle emissions. The show determined that, “At best, it’s a wash; motorcycles are just as bad for the environment as cars. At worst, they are far worse.” When tested side by side, a motorcycle will give off more of some gasses in the exhaust than a car of the same year. But that’s to be expected. As engines get smaller, it becomes more and more difficult to use a catalytic convertor to catch all the gasses. So it becomes an engineering and usability issue to catch all of the gasses a car can. However, when it comes to CO2 emissions, motorcycles emit a fraction of what cars are accountable for. It should be noted that CO2 emission levels are largely what drive climate change legislation. Continue reading ‘Motorcycles Greener Than Cars. Maybe Not. Maybe Yes.’
Those not in motorcycle racing have never heard the name Akrapovic. A couple of months ago, I introduced you to this European company because its experience and high quality reputation with numerous teams in the Pro Superbike championship (Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, Ducati, Honda), is now associated with new exhaust systems specifically conceived for most Harley-Davidson Sportster, Softail, Dyna and Touring models. After conquering many markets around the world, Akrapovic (means Scorpion, surname of company’s founder and former racer Igor Akrapovic)) has began a US operation this summer in Irvine, California and intends to use its 21-year old well known reputation for perfectionism to conquer a big share of the US V-Twin custom exhaust market.
