If you are into riding classic or old school style bikes with solo seat, you probably have adopted (and adapted) a springs seat type suspension system. Not necessarily the most comfortable ride… Obsessed with the idea of improving his ride and after making a total of 356 seats with hinge in the front and springs in the rear, Ryan Devine got the light. One day, while removing with a tweezer a splinter from his finger, his attention turned to these tweezers and realized that the design just might work for a fully suspended, level riding suspension seat! After building the first “Tweezer Action” suspension seat and riding it proved to be a success. With his system, Ryan claims that he can ride comfortably 1,000+ miles a day! Continue reading ‘Tweezer Action Suspension Solo Seat’
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Tweezer Action Suspension Solo Seat
Published by May 12th, 2011 in Builders, Chassis, Customs and Editorial.Will Bikers Return To The 2011 Myrtle Beach Bike Rally?
Published by May 12th, 2011 in Editorial and Events.
This year’s bike rally is kicking off this weekend starting tomorrow May 13 to May 22. Since 2006 attendance has been in sharp decline, due to the economy but also because of the measures and ordinances, from unfriendly to repressive, taken against attendees by the city of Myrtle Beach.
Since 2008, city officials tried to justify their actions by what they felt was the necessity to tone down all bike rallies in their city for less noise and traffic. Myrtle Beach’s helmet requirement was part of the package to dissuade bikers to travel inside the city limits. It created an outcry with a massive number of bikers deciding to boycott the rally with for consequence a huge loss of income for the city and surrounding areas. Eventually, in 2010 just after the Spring Rally ended, this controversial helmet law was overturned by the South Carolina Supreme Court. Continue reading ‘Will Bikers Return To The 2011 Myrtle Beach Bike Rally?’
Fabricator Kevin New Steel Parts
Published by May 11th, 2011 in Builders, Customs, Editorial, Electrical and Engines.
If it’s not steel, it ain’t real. Many think this way and Fab Kevin made this motto the basis of his business: custom made to order steel parts for your Chopper. He even encourages you to submit your own ideas that he will custom fabricate for you. 2 of his most recent parts are:
1- This Billet-Steel Kicker Arm machined cut from a thick 1″ thick block of steel. Sweeping curves and speed holes give it some style. This strong arm has zero offset, so it works great on bikes with narrow rear tires. Fits all Harley-Davidson 4-speed transmissions from ’36 and up, as well as any aftermarket trainees using a standard HD style kicker shaft. Perfect for Baker’s 6 into 4! Accepts any standard or aftermarket kicker pedal too. Raw finish $195.00. Chrome $295.00. 2- This Bullet Sidemount Tag Light for some retro feel without the too big size of a Caddy light. Use LED’s visible from side because of lens shape. Available in horizontal or vertical to mount on axle or horizontal and vertical with weld-on mount. $265.00. Fab Kevin Choppers
It’s amazing to observe that “US War Machines” like the WLA Harley-Davidson can be found intact, restored or turned into a chopper or racer in countries all around our world, including Japan. Very similar to the WL civilian model, the WLA (45″ or 740 cc engine and single-rider design) was produced to US Army specifications in the years during World War II (same engine powered the three-wheeled Servi-Car) 90,000 were produced during the war (along with spare parts, the equivalent of many more) and when the war ended they were sold as surplus and “civilianized”. Unusually, all the WLAs produced after Pearl Harbor (12/7/41), regardless of the actual year, would be given serial numbers indicating 1942 production. Thus, war-time machines would come to be known as 42 WLAs. Continue reading ‘Japanese Harley WLA Racer’
Hoka Hey 2011. Sponsored By Harley-Davidson. Organized By Hoka Hey.
Published by May 11th, 2011 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The second edition of the Hoka Hey Endurance Run is going to be a completely different event. It needed to be after the many controversial issues during the 2010 event. It included organizer’s contradictory statements, broken promises regarding charities, absence or incompetence of on-road organization, vague route instructions, apparently not even an official present on the finish line when the winner crossed it, the use of lie detector techniques to decide a winner (!), a prize money delay and very sadly death of a participant and several riders injuries. Add to this blaming all the media for factually reporting all these issues…
Contrary to what Jim Durham announced at the end of the 2010, Hoka Hey 2011 is no more a 1 million prize winner event and is no more accepting all brands of motorcycles. As formally announced, Harley-Davidson is a sponsor and didn’t get any difficulty obtaining the 10,000 miles ride across 48 states to be ridden only on Harley-Davidson motorcycles with all 13 stage arrivals at its dealerships. Wishing to avoid any liability, Harley clearly states that the company is only a contingency sponsor and is not responsible for organizing or conducting the event, and will defer all decisions regarding final finishing order to the event organizers. Continue reading ‘Hoka Hey 2011. Sponsored By Harley-Davidson. Organized By Hoka Hey.’
Hollister. No Official Bikers Rally. But Still A Rally.
Published by May 10th, 2011 in Customs, Editorial, Events and Seats.
The weekend rally in Hollister, CA the “Birthplace Of The American Biker”, has been canceled 2 years ago. But thanks in great part to Mike Corbin, bikers are still riding to Hollister to celebrate the Fourth Of July Weekend (Friday July 1 – Monday July 4, 2011.) Corbin is organizing its second annual open house with a rider appreciation day on Saturday featuring live music, great food, factory tours and an expanded vendor row with some of the greatest names in the motorcycle industry. Around Hollister, local businesses will also roll out the red carpet to welcome bikers to town with special events and activities through the weekend. It is recommended to register your participation in advance for this Independence weekend by going to Corbin Rally.
Want something different for your custom fabricated oil tank?
The threaded bung of this kit can be welded into any custom made steel oil bag. Then choose the finishing you want for the screw in thumb cap.
Made out of 6051 T-6 aluminum in raw, polish finish or solid brass.
Bung & cap $90.00. At Acme Choppers.
California Scooter Company’s New Police Motorcycle
Published by May 10th, 2011 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
California Scooter Company (CSC Motorcycles) announced today the addition of a police version to its popular line of small made-in-America motorcycles. Named the CSC-150P, it is available in a standard black-and-white paint scheme, with other department colors available on a special order basis.
Standard equipment includes the usual calibrated speedometer, windshield, storage rack, saddlebags, siren, engine guards, and police lighting. This small motorcycle meets the demands for high mobility, high maneuverability, and rapid response in highly-congested urban settings. Its short wheelbase, small diameter wheels, and light weight allow it to go places and maneuver through areas not navigable by larger police motorcycles. It seems ideal for department community affairs and police duties in tourist areas and urban settings. Continue reading ‘California Scooter Company’s New Police Motorcycle’
Riding on this day showcases the positive value of motorcycles and scooters for transportation. It is an economical, efficient and socially responsible form of mobility that saves energy, helps the environment and provides a broad range of other public benefits,” states Andy Goldfine, the event organizer. The event has also been recognized by proclamation by over one hundred American cities. Continue reading ‘Ride To Work Day Is June 20th 2011’
March 11, 2011. Japan’s most powerful earthquake triggered a massive tsunami that struck the country’s north-east coast with the devastating consequences we all know. It didn’t prevent Hiroshima based Japanese custom builder Hiroyuki Hirata to travel from Japan with his bike “Phoenix” to Santa Clara, California to compete in the Custom Chrome North American Championship held a few days later March 19-20th. Continue reading ‘Japan Is A Phoenix’
Third Annual Big Mountain Ride. May 18-22, 2011.
Published by May 8th, 2011 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Organized by the Cycle Source Magazine and by the cats of the Limpnickie Lot, and supported by Spectro Oils, this year’s Big Mountain Run is scheduled for May 18th through the 22rd, 2011 and the line up is outrageous, gypsy style. To give everyone that wanted to do this last year and couldn’t make it, they are keeping run almost exactly the same. Tuesday night there will be a pre-run party at Wicked Willy’s Choppers in Taylorsville, NC, the same place you will leave in the morning by noon. Continue reading ‘Third Annual Big Mountain Ride. May 18-22, 2011.’
This weekend (Mother’s Day has different dates in different parts of the world) , to celebrate all mothers and of course it includes stepmoms, Americans will spend approximately $2.6 billion on flowers, $1.53 billion on pampering gifts—like spa treatments—and another $68 million on greeting cards. How many hugs and kisses? They are free.
“The Hand That Rocks The Cradle Is The Hand That Rules The World” (W R Wallace)
Happy Mother’s Day.
The announcement on April 19th, 2011 of Polaris Industries buying Indian Motorcycle Limited from the UK based Stellican private equity firm was quite a surprise for many of you. Since then, speculation was high regarding 1- what would happen to the Indian’s plant employees in Kings Mountain, NC 2- what would happen to the exclusive Indian Dealers. 3- What market strategy Polaris would use for its new Indian division. 4- When Polaris would be able to start production of brand new Indians. 5- How the 2012 Indian models, if any, and years beyond would look like. 6- In what range of prices, etc… Here are a few facts I was able to collect. Continue reading ‘Indian Motorcycle New 2012-2013 Models’
Custom Bolt-On Oil Tank For Harley-Davidson Rocker Models
Published by May 7th, 2011 in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
You love custom parts that you can bolt-on without guessing, cutting, modifying and welding…
This oil tank is a direct bolt-on for Harley-Davidson Rockers. You can also use the existing stock oil lines and mounts which makes it easy and fast to change.
Available in raw, molded and primed, copper, brass, chrome, oil rubbed bronze or brushed stainless steel finish. Other finishes are also available on custom orders.
For more information call Fausto on my behalf 450-201-0787e-mail to info@motoxcycle.com or visit MotoXCycle.
Did You Know? Harley-Davidson Topper Scooter.
Published by May 7th, 2011 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Scooters represent the motorcycle market fastest growing segment. Price of gas can only help support and amplify this trend. Amazing the growing number of young people and executives I see every day riding them to school or work. So, it made me think that most of you probably don’t know that in the 60’s Harley-Davidson introduced the only scooter platform the Motor Company ever produced. Why? Continue reading ‘Did You Know? Harley-Davidson Topper Scooter.’
AMA Hall Of Famer Don Emde to Re-Trace 1914 Cannonball Baker Route
Published by May 6th, 2011 in Editorial and Events.
At the beginning of last century, Erwin “Cannon Ball” Baker did many cross-country motorcycle rides that earned him his nickname. One his most famous rides was his 1914 3,388 miles coast to coast ride from San Diego to New-York completed in 11 1/2 days, nine days faster than the previous record (it’s an average of 300 miles a day on an Indian producing less than 10 horsepower!).
Don Emde, AMA Hall Of Famer, 1972 Daytona 200 winner and Editor of Parts Magazine will trace Erwin Cannonball Baker route by riding as much of Baker’s actual route as possible. Some roads may have disappeared, so Don will take current roads when necessary. Continue reading ‘AMA Hall Of Famer Don Emde to Re-Trace 1914 Cannonball Baker Route’
Tech Cycle Cyclone 2″ Primary Belt Drive System
Published by May 6th, 2011 in Customs, Driveline and Editorial.
The crew at Tech Cycle promises that their Primary Belt System is not just another pretty face. Unlike some of their competitor who try to pass off their 2″ drives with a greatly reduced number of clutch plates, their 2″ Cyclone design uses a full size street clutch pack ready to handle all your big inch needs. Unit is both strong and light and comes fully polished with newly designed, fully contoured outboard, front bearing support and great clutch plates. Tech Cycle.
5 riders (Victor, Jocelyn, Stephan, Clare and Tyler), 50 States from Anchorage to Hawaii, 25,000 miles on Harley-Davidson motorcycles (rumored to be the main sponsor) for a pan-America journey in search of themselves and a country they only think they know. A once in a lifetime adventure and opportunity for personal growth that will ultimately shape their future and perhaps for some, provide a more private chance to leave their past behind them. The Motorcycle Diaries will start mid-june and will be documented on film during 50 weeks and on social media like Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. Should be interesting and can bring new young people to the sport. No doubt that the further they will travel, the more they will feel the world changing, but as a matter of fact it will be them…
A biker was walking home from a bar late at night and sees a woman in the shadows. “Twenty dollars”, she whispers. Bubba had never been with a hooker before, but decides what the heck, it’s only twenty bucks. So they hide in the bushes.
They’re in there for only a minute when all of a sudden a light flashes on them. It’s a police officer. “What’s going on here people?”, asks the officer. “I’m making love to my wife!”, Bubba answers sounding annoyed. “Oh, I’m sorry”, says the cop, “I didn’t know.” Bubba says, “Well, neither did I, till ya shined that light in her face…”
Harley-Davidson Cross Bones Reengineered By Exile Cycles
Published by May 5th, 2011 in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
With the complicity of photographer Steve Kelly, I release a sneak preview of the latest project of Russell Mitchell at Exile Cycles. As a matter of fact these photos were actually shot within hours of the bike being finished earlier this week while Russell was road testing his new creation. Contrary to what you may think at first glance, the re-engineering work accomplished on this custom born as a 09 Harley Cross Bones is much heavier than what meets your eyes. Built at the request of Johannesburg Harley-Davidson, South Africa, already owner of 2 Exile custom bikes, this project received some serious TLC. Let me explain… Continue reading ‘Harley-Davidson Cross Bones Reengineered By Exile Cycles’
The World’s First Zero-Emissions Grand Prix On Isle Of Man.
Published by May 5th, 2011 in Editorial, Events and Videos.CHARGE is a new movie following several teams to the world’s first zero-emissions grand prix on the Isle of Man in 2009 and on their return in 2010. Racing without the sound and fury of internal combustion engines? Are these racers visionaries defining the future of motorcycling? Is it history or blasphemy? I let you judge. Directed and written by Mark Neale (director of the MOTO GP Movie Faster) and narrated by Ewan McGregor. Watch the trailer (thanks Amaryllis)
New Forward Controls From Supreme Legends USA
Published by May 5th, 2011 in Builders, Controls, Customs and Editorial.
Not easy to re-invent the forward control. Most often than not, what is new is a development or re-design of different ideas already floated around by other brands. Still, after some tweaking and creative machining the final product may look different. For example the top model featured here called “Money Shot” mixing the popular drill design with hexagonal peg tips. Below, from left to right, a close up of models “Gold Digger” (could have been called “Gold Driller”!), “High Roller” and “Dirty Money” (basically the black version of the “Money Shot”) Of course, machined out of billet aluminum. Supreme Legends USA is sold through most major distributor catalogs, and sells direct worldwide. Full line for American and Metric bikes at Supreme Legends USA or call (714) 504-0715.
Fantasizing Of Becoming Bonneville New Rollie Free (Part 1)
Published by May 4th, 2011 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
I was there in 2009 when French custom builder Laurent Dutruel raced for the 1st time the Salts of Bonneville. And as all those who went to participate in any LSR (Land Speed Record) will tell you, Salts are addictive. So, since 2 years Laurent (Zen Motorcycles) works on a new crazy machine that he intends to push to the extreme along the 8-mile track drawn in Bonneville white emptiness. Usually, I don’t publish customs while still in fabrication but the story of this bike is quite interesting.
Laurent will compete with this boardtrack bike configuration in the 1000 A-PG class (less than 1000 cc, A stands for Artisanal fabrication, P for Pushrod engine and G for gas powered.) His inspiration, although not trying to imitate another creation, comes from the famous minimalist Boardtrack Harley named Hagakure built in 1995 by Japanese builder Masayuki Morimoto. And for his racing bike, Laurent adopted the same Zen approach. Purety or organic lines in search of maximum fluidity while moving in the Utah air. Continue reading ‘Fantasizing Of Becoming Bonneville New Rollie Free (Part 1)’
Third Annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering Is May 14, 2011
Published by May 4th, 2011 in Builders, Editorial and Events.
The Quail Motorcycle Gathering offers a spectacular display of new custom, restored classic sports and racing bikes lined up on the pristine lawn of the Driving Range at Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club in Carmel, CA on Saturday, May 14. To debut during the event the new motorcycle built by Ian Barry at Falcon Motorcycles and the So-Cal Speed Shop’s new line of limited edition motorcycles called Miler and inspired by old Triumph racers
Falcon Motorcycles. Named The Black Falcon, Ian Barry’s new project is built using a salvaged engine from a Vincent 1951 Black Shadow and you will be the first to see it in my Blog on Monday morning May 16th. The Black underwent more than a year of uninterrupted design, engineering and fabrication. The Black is the third creation in Falcon’s Concept Ten, a collection of masterful one-off bikes designed and fabricated around the engines of iconic British motorcycles. The second was the Kestrel Falcon, which was unveiled at last year’s Quail Motorcycle Gathering.
So-Cal Speed Shop, known for custom car creations, will debut its new line of motorcycles branded the Miler. A modernized fusion of function and nostalgia, the Miler is reminiscent of flat track Triumph racers from the 1960s and 1970s and is powered by an exhilarating 78 horsepower, 865cc displacement twin-cylinder Triumph Bonneville motor in a superlight frame package. A combination of high-compression pistons, precision-engineered head porting, and exhaust tuning enhance the recreational aspect of the reliable street rider. This marks the first So-Cal Speed Shop evolution, based on the original Streetmaster and Mule Motorcycles concept bike. The Miler is the first of several limited edition bikes from So-Cal Moto Sport that will soon be in production. Continue reading ‘Third Annual Quail Motorcycle Gathering Is May 14, 2011’
Born Free Vintage Chopper And Classic Cycle Show
Published by May 4th, 2011 in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.I mention this show because it’s becoming one of the west coast biggest one day free events celebrating the love of old motorcycles. It will be held June 25th, 2011 at Oak Canyon Ranch in Orange County, California. Open to all makes and styles, but is heavily geared toward vintage bikes that can be stock, modified, chopped, raced, etc. Any bike with a story or history from old Harley-davidson JD to original Denver’s CB750 diggers. A short video for you to feel the atmosphere… Born Free Show.
