Published by Cyril Huze September 27th, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
Each wheel manufacturer has his own brand name to qualify its line of black & polish wheels. At Harley-Davidson they call it the “H-Cut” series. Their newest model is a one-piece cast-aluminum wheel called the Magnum ($449.95) is inspired by the steel of a large-frame revolver. 15 individual spokes to form 5 distinct columns. The cast-in “rivets” visually tie the oval cross-section spokes to the rim and the hub.
The machined-aluminum Cut Back surfaces stand in brilliant contrast to the rich gloss black finish. All Genuine Motor Accessory wheels have been certified by Harley- Davidson to perform to their toughest vehicle standards for quality and durability. Continue reading ‘New Harley-Davidson Cut Back Gloss Black Magnum Wheels’
Published by Cyril Huze September 26th, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Published by Cyril Huze September 25th, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
It’s part of my obligations to publish facts and to never post rumors. But sometimes my responsibility is to publicly deny these rumors when too big and when I know for sure that they are not true. While the Las Vegas BikeFest organization is disappointed to hear of the incident that occurred earlier this weekend in Sparks, NV (see my previous article) the event is not cancelled and will open September 29.
In contact this Sunday with those organizing the event, they confirmed to me that “Las Vegas BikeFest will not let the Street Vibrations event incident dampen the festivities and activities that will be occurring several hundred miles away in Las Vegas beginning this coming Thursday. Las Vegas BikeFest has never had an incident in its 10 years, and we work very closely with law enforcement and our own private security detail to provide a safe event for all attendees.” So, don’t change your plans and have a great time in a few days in Vegas.
Published by Cyril Huze September 25th, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
It is the time again when the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame is accepting nominations for the 2012 Hall of Fame and the 2012 Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame. Individuals, organizations and businesses considered for induction into the Hall of Fame will have made a positive and significant impact on motorcycling. Individuals considered for the Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame will have made a significant impact through their work in grassroots rights efforts.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame honors the men and women who have dedicated much of their lives to improving, promoting and advancing our great sport and lifestyle. The Freedom Fighters Hall of Fame recognizes the sacrifices individuals across the nation, and world, have made to protect the rights of motorcyclists through their efforts in the political arena and in grass roots motorcyclists rights organizations. Anyone who knows of a deserving individual can help the museum recognize these exceptional and deserving people by sending in a nomination. Continue reading ‘Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall Of Fame Accepting Nominations’
Published by Cyril Huze September 25th, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
Last Monday, while attempting at the Bonneville Salt Flats to beat his own land speed record of 394 miles per hour, driver Rocky Robinson crashed his machine at over 100 mph. It seems that the new installed traction control malfunctioned, unexpectedly shifting all power to the rear wheel with for consequence the bike taking off, then flipping over a dozen of times before landing upside down. The bike is a complete wreck and Rocky Robinson sustained a broken shoulder and collar bone and cuts in his left leg. Back at home where he waits for some surgery, I am sure he is already thinking about his next LSR attempt. (picture Rocky Robinson)
Published by Cyril Huze September 25th, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Capital Pros Network, a Los Angeles financial consulting and marketing firm, said today it will interview prospective counsel for litigation against Harley-Davidson, Inc. as a result of the company launching a new (2011-2012) women’s “Cosmic” clothing line. Harley’s line includes cosmic mesh jackets, helmets, gloves, “cosmic” women sneakers, and “cosmic” kids sneakers — all of which were proposed by artist Jack Armstrong via his established “Cosmic” brand. Artist Jack Armstrong, named the “last wizard” by Andy Warhol, has been profiled internationally. On Oct 21st, 2010 Mr. Armstrong unveiled his 1.1 million dollar “Cosmic” Harley motorcycle at a celebrity-studded event at Bartels’ Harley-Davidson, in Marina del Rey, CA. It was here that the artist alleges he first made public the “Cosmic Harley” concept. Armstrong and CPN tried to resolve the matter amicably. The amount of damages to be sought has not been determined. Another David against Goliath story?
Published by Cyril Huze September 24th, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
On Friday evening just before midnight a gunfight erupted at the Nugget Hotel and Casino in the city of Sparks, Nevada between armed members of the Hells Angels and Vagos motorcycle clubs. One member of the Hells Angels was killed and two members of the Vagos were injured. This Saturday morning there was also a drive by shooting. A large number of bikers are present in the city of Sparks and Reno for the the fall Street Vibrations motorcycle event. Due to these shootings the Governor declared a state of emergency on behalf of the city of Sparks and the Street Vibrations motorcycle event dubbed a “celebration of music, metal and motorcycles” is cancelled for the remainder of the weekend. Continue reading ‘Nevada Street Vibrations Motorcycle Event Cancelled After Shootings’
Published by Cyril Huze September 24th, 2011
in Builders, Controls, Customs and Editorial.
At a MSRP of $15,499, the Blackline, the model introduced by Harley-Davidson as “the long, low, no BS Dark Custom with a minimalist throwback stance for today’s freedom seekers” is probably going to be one of the most customized of the factory lineup. No doubt that switching to high bars will be a popular choice and John Grant at Hardtail Choppers tells me that he already got a lot of requests for ape hangers for the Blackline. So, of course, he rushed to fabricate his own sets and thinks he is the first one in the US to offer such option for the new HD model.
But do you know that Harley changed the bolt pattern to 5 1/2″ center to center on the mount to the top triple tree . Also the bars are indexed into the top tree so they don’t spin . Harley Blackline bars are individual from each side . They have a 7/8″ X 14 thread that goes completely through the top tree and uses a 7/8″ nut to secure the bars . There is a flat side near the thread area, so when it sits down into the top tree it prevents each bar from spinning . Continue reading ‘First Available Custom High Bars For Harley-Davidson Blackline Model’
Published by Cyril Huze September 24th, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
You will have to wait a little bit more to see and buy it because Roland Sands Design is still seeking dealerships to carry his new collection. It is qualified by Roland sands as non-over embellished, over-branded or over-the-to. Instead it is more about making the wearer look tasteful and selective while keeping the rider protected. RSD riding and casual wear offers a positive spin on the spirit, history and design of motorcycling. Think of it as style, with sleeves and armor.” In the collection, probably the most interesting category will be the riding gear with jackets, either in oil leather or waxed cotton, merging heritage with modern materials. But the line will also include hoodies, T-shirts, gloves, wallets, belts and other accessories. Roland Sands Design Apparel.
Published by Cyril Huze September 23rd, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
You could call my article the Hog meets with the Dragon…
For the 1st time in its history Harley-Davidson is producing 100 bikes featuring Chinese characters on paint and chrome meaning “Harley” and “Peace”. The occasion? The celebration of the Republic Of China (Taiwan) 100th Anniversary.
The ROC was established in 1911, replacing the Qing Dynasty and ending over 2,000 years of imperial rule in China to become the oldest surviving republic in East Asia. Selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles in China is still at the take off stage, but the Milwaukee company doesn’t miss an opportunity to promote culture fusion between West and East. The 100 limited edition Harleys have a special serial number that symbolizes its uniqueness celebration
Published by Cyril Huze September 23rd, 2011
in Accessories, Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
Expect a multitude of motorcycle accessories to hold your smart phones, mp3 players and GPS devices to be released in the next months. A market following the explosive growth of mobile devices. This new mount, designed and manufactured by Iron Aces Speed Shop, Inc. provides an elegant and functional solution without distracting from the beauty of the Harley-Davidson Road Glide panel. It utilizes unused instrument bezel space and keeps handheld devices positioned in the riders’ field of vision for added safety. Continue reading ‘iPhone/GPS Mount For Harley-Davidson Road Glide’
Published by Cyril Huze September 23rd, 2011
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Supreme Legends introduces its RAM Ball Brake Reservoir Mounting System for some Harley-Davidson and Goldwing Models. This system allows you to use your RAM mount accessories, including GPS, iPod or Cell. Phone holders, without adding more clamps and clutter to your bars. Simply remove your existing brake reservoir cover, replace the gasket and screws onto this unit, secure it and go.
Makes a great gift for the electronics nut in your life! Currently available for Goldwing models and\, 08/up Harley Touring models, with more HD fitment coming shortly. $69.99 plus shipping. Available exclusively through Supreme Legends USA. Call 714-504-0715 for further information and available fitments.
Published by Cyril Huze September 22nd, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Engines.
For more displacement at a good value, these 4” big bore cylinders with forged coated KB pistons and Cometic gaskets increase the displacement of an 88” Twin Cam engine to 97” and raise a 96” Twin Cam to a whopping 106”, all this with no case machining necessary. Each kit includes: • RevTech 4” Cylinders with machined fin edges in black wrinkle or natural finish • KB forged pistons with anti-friction skirt coating • Cometic multi-layer steel head gaskets. For best performance results you can add cams and Carb/EFI upgrade.
Available for For Twin Cam 96 from 07-11 (Ref: 658652. 106” Kit natural finish MSRP: $664.99. Ref: 658653. 106” Kit black finish MSRP: $664.99) For Twin Cam 88 from 99-06 (Ref: 658650. 97” Kit natural finish MSRP: $664.99. Ref: 658651 97” Kit black finish MSRP: $664.99) See your Custom Chrome Dealer.
Published by Cyril Huze September 22nd, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
Two South African stuntmen, Enrico Schoeman and Andre de Kock, already own one of the most dangerous world records. Riding a motorcycle through a tunnel of fire. The current mark is 68.49 meters (about 225 feet). And tomorrow Friday September 23, 2011 at 7.30 pm local time in New Zealand, they will attempt to ride a Kawasaki-powered Australian Sidecar through a fire tunnel of 85 meters (about 279 feet or 93 yards.) Continue reading ‘World Record In A Tunnel Of Fire’
Published by Cyril Huze September 21st, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
US Harley-Davidson Dealers Shipping Parts To Canada were reminded that they are not supposed to sell parts outside of their area. Playing the game of a favorable exchange rate for the Canadian dollar stronger than the US one, many Canadians, individuals and independent shops order their HD parts from US dealers, and not necessarily those on the border between the 2 countries. These American dealers were told that they can lose their dealership by making sales to Canada. The objective is of course to protect their Canadian counterparts.
For The First Time Ducati Selling More bikes In The US Than In Italy. On Monday Sepember 19, 2011 at a North American meeting, Ducati Motor Holding President Gabriele Del Torchio announced “We sell more bikes here in the United States now than we do in our domestic market.” He stated that the Ducati brand became the second most recognizable behind Apple (I have doubts on this statement because other brand studies don’t show Ducati in 2nd position). 20% of Ducati bikes are sold in Italy, and 80 percent are exported. Del Torchio added, “Our registrations through the end of August went up by 18.6 percent despite the fact that the worldwide market was down 4.3 percent. I truly believe that by the end of the year, we will reach 42,000 units, which would be a record in our history for highest volume, even better than our previous best year in 2008” Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Published by Cyril Huze September 21st, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Trademark rights are protected through registration, maintenance, watching, and enforcement. These precautions, and proper use help preserve the ability of marks to indicate the source of a product or service to consumers.
On Monday September 19th, 2011 the Intellectual Property Law Firm of Merchant & Gould in Minneapolis, MN representing Polaris Industries Inc. and its subsidiary Indian Motorcycle International LLC (IMI) contacted Crazy Horse Motorcycles LLC in Kent, Washington for what they consider an Indian Motorcycle Trademark infringement. The subject of this letter is to stop the use by Crazy Horse Motorcycles of an Indian Headdress logo and design used as their corporate logo, tank and fender badges.
John White from Crazy Horse Motorcycles sent me an email/letter stating the following “It seems that Crazy Horse’s logo is upsetting the stakeholders at Polaris. I think we sold a total of ten tank logos and perhaps 15 fender logos. I am not sure who is making the risk management decisions at Polaris but they are going to end up exposing their very weak mark to the point of public domain. They just (blip) with the wrong guy…” Continue reading ‘A Case Of Trademark Enforcement By Polaris Industries – Indian Motorcycle Against Crazy Horse Motorcycles’
Published by Cyril Huze September 21st, 2011
in Editorial.
You both love and hate your computer. (of course hate it much more if you use a PC instead of a Mac.) For all of you who feel only the deepest love and affection for the way your PC computer has enhanced your life, read on…
At a recent Computer Expo (COMDEX), Bill Gates reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry and stated: “If Ford had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25 cars that got 1,000 miles to the gallon.” In response to Bill’s comments, Ford issued a press release stating: If Ford had developed technology like Microsoft, we would all be driving cars with the following characteristics: Continue reading ‘Joke Of The Week’
Published by Cyril Huze September 20th, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Published by Cyril Huze September 20th, 2011
in Builders and Editorial.
You may argue about the fact that we already or will soon belong to China. Not only the US but Europe and more. While they lend us money to shrink our deficits, succeed at selling us their own products and knock-offs of ours, American companies, including Harley-Davidson, still try to get a small share of the huge Chinese market. But the world’s most populous nation knows how to put barriers to prevent us from selling to them while they are almost free to sell anything they want to us. Harley-Davidson is actively lobbying the Chinese and American governments to ease those “barrier laws” in an effort to increase sales in China. But what I learned is that this country has its own very unusual motorcycling regulations affecting their own citizens. Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson In China. Did You Know?’
Published by Cyril Huze September 20th, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
The Custom Chrome Europe Dealer Show in Mainz, Germany serves for many as their first glimpse at the latest V-Twin parts for the coming riding season. During the last weekend of March 2012. on Saturday March 24th Custom Chrome Europe will bring together the best V-Twin aftermarket parts companies from around the world to showcase their products to V-Twin dealers from every corner of Europe. On Sunday March 25th the doors of the Phönix-Halle will once again be open to the motorcycle riding public. Continue reading ’14th Annual Custom Chrome Europe Dealer Show Set For March 24- 25, 2012′
Published by Cyril Huze September 20th, 2011
in Driveline and Editorial.
Question: Can I use Spectro’s Heavy Duty Platinum 6-Speed Transmission Lubricant in either a 4 or 5-Speed transmission?
Answer: Yes. While the 6-speed transmission lubricant was designed for the newer Harleys, and after market transmissions such as Baker Drivetrain, it incorporates extreme pressure additive technology not required in the older 4 and 5-Speed transmissions. Therefore it meets or exceeds the requirements for older transmissions.
This is a question and answer section suggested by readers. IF you have an engine or transmission oil question, email news@spectro-oils.com
Published by Cyril Huze September 19th, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Suspension.
Published by Cyril Huze September 19th, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
The Love Ride Song is humbly dedicated to the incredible legacy of the annual Love Ride fundraiser event founded by Oliver Shokouh of Glendale Harley-Davidson. Written and performed by indie artist, Sasha Mullins Lassiter, who truly does live to ride and works in the motorcycle industry, this song represents the passion to serve and help others in the motorcycle community. You can preview and download the song for $ 0.99 on iTunes or Bandcamp. Also available at your favorite digital distribution site, Amazon, Rhapsody, Spotify, etc
“The goal is to make the Love Ride Song the largest fundraiser tune in history because there are so many people in need and motorcyclists are known for their generous fundraising efforts worldwide” tells Sasha. She is best known as a journalist, author of the books Chrome Cowgirl and Bikerlady, and a motorcycle event manager for Jay Allen and Melissa Penland. Continue reading ‘Love Ride 2011. The Fund Raising Song.’
Published by Cyril Huze September 18th, 2011
in Accessories, Builders and Editorial.
The new Low-Profile Oil Drain Pan ($29.95) can help reduce the mess and clean-up required when changing motorcycle fluids. Designed with a low-profile design to fit under lowered motorcycles the 10-quart capacity oil drain pan will capture two engine-oil changes or the complete drain fluids (engine oil, primary and transmission) from one motorcycle.
Large enough to catch the oil from the entire length of the primary, it will also hold and drain an inverted primary cover. The drain pan features a raised hardware corral, a filter drain surface, and a pressure vent hole that prevents messy oil burping. Drained waste oil is sealed inside the pan with high-quality gasketed caps and plugs. A convenient carrying handle simplifies transport to an approved waste oil facility. More info at Harley-Davidson’s Website.
Zero Engineering