Published by Cyril Huze April 3rd, 2011
in Accessories, Customs and Editorial.
Securing your motorcycle in upright position either for storage, service or transportation is an issue for all bikers. And you may know that dropped bikes are a somewhat frequent occurrence… Harley-Davidson just released this Cradle Wheel Chock ($249.95) holding a motorcycle securely on the ground, on a trailer, or in the back of a pickup truck. Not only a Harley, but any motorcycle model with vehicle weight up to 3,000 pounds, front or rear wheel size of 14 inches to 22 inches rim diameter, and 3.15-inch to 8.66-inch nominal wheel width.).
Made of sturdy aluminum, the lightweight, folding wheel chock is easy to transport and can be used in a garage or driveway for storage, service or when washing a bike. When equipped with the optional Trailer Adapter ($29.95), the wheel chock can be easily moved to a trailer or truck bed. Designed for roll-on/roll-off use, the rocking cradle allows one person to easily park a motorcycle in the stand, and Cruiser Cradle holds the bike in place without straps. The one-person operation simplifies securing the bike for transport, and upright storage saves garage space and permits easy access to both sides of the motorcycle. I placed a demonstration video after the jump. Continue reading ‘Interesting Wheel Chock From Harley-Davidson’
Published by Cyril Huze April 3rd, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
Last week, bikers from around the State of Georgia rode to the Capitol revving their engines against a federal grant the Georgia State Patrol is using to conduct motorcycle-only safety checkpoints. Protest was about denouncing the checkpoints as unconstitutional and came two weeks after the state patrol conducted motorcycle checkpoints on Interstates 75 and 95, the first of six days of stops to be held sporadically over the next 20 months. Dan Forrest A.B.A.T.E Georgia State Director stated that “the roadblocks are a violation of our rights and are a pure attempt at profiling. The Savannah Stop had 17 GSP cars, 2 Sheriff’s cars, 1 DOT car, a van filming and photographing every biker and a helicopter. This sounds like a Border Crossing in a communist country and has nothing to do with safety.” Continue reading ‘Georgia Bikers Continue To Protest Motorcycle-Only Checkpoints’
Published by Cyril Huze April 3rd, 2011
in Editorial.
Custom motorcycle builders receive strange and funny requests. I decided to share with you one of them I just received. I still didn’t reply, but you can write in comments the reply you would like me to send back to him. I will email your best (funniest) ones…
From: Thomas M. Hirschmann (email address removed for privacy)
Subject: Goldwing Engine on a Harley Ultra Classic?
Date: April 2, 2011 2:01:52 PM EDT
To: Cyril Huze <info@cyrilhuze.com>
Hi Cyril. Found your link on the www. Been a Harley fan here in the USA for years. In Europe I ride a Honda Goldwing. Love that bike for the power climbing the mountains there. I’m doing rather long excursions like San Diego to Palm Beach or yearly San Diego to Cabo San Lucas and back. Problem is that my wife – on long trips – can’t take the heat on the right hand aft side of the Harley anymore. Installed heat deflectors and such but nothing really works… especially in 110°+F outside temperatures like in the Baja de California! So here is my question: Could you install a Goldwing Engine on a Harley Ultra Classic? Sort of mend the best of both worlds? Looking forward to hearing from you I remain. With best regards. Thomas.
Published by Cyril Huze April 2nd, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Published by Cyril Huze April 2nd, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Wheels.
Published by Cyril Huze April 2nd, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
It comes from the shop of the usual suspects for this type of machine, Shanon & Marc Parker at Parker Brothers Choppers, the duo who brought to you the Tron Cycle Light bike. It’s not a toy, not a “green” e-trike (it’s powered by a Harley Evo 80″), will never be street legal (rear steering by a pair of hand levers), and it got the tallest and most impractical front wheel in the trike biz (45″). So, why? you ask.…Simply because the Parkers want to become the go-to-guys when it comes to designing and building movie and television cars and bikes. Their idol is of course George Barris that one day they wish to replace as the preferred source of Hollywood movie studios. (picture by Karen Parker)
Published by Cyril Huze April 1st, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona Harley-Davidson announced that the original Beach Street location, located at 290 North Beach Street, will be temporarily closed as of today April 1, 2011 and that construction will immediately begin for The Original Bruce Rossmeyer’s Harley-Davidson Museum and Store in its place. The Beach Street location was the first Harley-Davidson® dealership in 1994 under the Bruce Rossmeyer name. Once the museum and store open it will serve as the very first museum in the company’s group. The museum and store will span across 20,000 square feet and will showcase a variety of displays, memorabilia, and items for purchase. Continue reading ‘Breaking News. Original Daytona Beach Rossmeyer’s Harley To Be Turned Into A Museum And Store.’
Published by Cyril Huze April 1st, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Published by Cyril Huze April 1st, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
Those riding a Harley, especially an old model, should like this brand new leather jacket with a classically subtle design with a modern zip-off cotton hood. The action back, pre-curved sleeves and adjustable waist tabs deliver all-day riding comfort. Made of midweight leather with a poly-mesh lining and a poly/cotton hood. Lightweight padding at the elbows, shoulders and back waist are matched with body armor pockets at the elbows and shoulders, and four exterior and two interior pockets offer ample storage. Discreet contrasting stitching and embroidered graphic. Available in S – 5XL and Tall sizes. Available now at most Harley-Davidson dealerships or visit Harley-Davidson.
Published by Cyril Huze April 1st, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
1-Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII) today announced a $100,000 donation to the American Red Cross to assist with relief efforts underway in Japan. “On behalf of everyone at Polaris, our heartfelt thoughts and sincerest well-wishes go out to the people of Japan,” said Scott Wine, CEO, Polaris Industries Inc. “Our Japanese partners and friends have supported Polaris for more than 40 years. It’s our hope that this donation can not only help the people of Japan in their recovery, but also honor those who have been so important to Polaris over the years.” The foundation for the strong, ongoing business relationships shared between Polaris and Japan dates back to the late-1960s.
2- 2011 Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The Legendary Buffalo Chip Adds Mind-Blowing Jumps and World Record Attempts to Rally Week Festivities with Freestyle Moto X Riders. A contract with motocross Pro Riders and distance jumpers Trigger Gumm and Derrick McClintock has been signed and the Chip’s Sporting Complex will stand witness to an array of once-in-a-lifetime feats and skill testing jumps. The daredevils will be performing 200 plus jumps daily from August 5 through August 13 with all jumps taking place at midnight. Attempting an array of world record distance jumps including one astounding world record breaking jump on a Harley Davidson during the course of the week, Gumm and McClintock are looking forward to showing “Chipsters” what a gnarly jump really looks like. Continue reading ‘Fast Motorcycle Industry News’
Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2011
in Customs, Editorial and Events.
This picture was attached to a letter signed Holger Mohr, President and CEO of Custom Chrome, sent today to all CCI dealers who attended 2 weeks ago the very successful 2011 Dealer Show. Of course most of you, my readers, are not motorcycle dealers, but I still think that this picture of the CCI American Team is very cool, at least for 2 reasons. First, to show that the custom motorcycle industry is well and alive. Second, because to gather all these guys and gals in the same picture (without anyone clowning around…) has a lot of merit (I know them all!)
By the way I remind all professional photographers of the industry that it would be very cool if one of them could gather all professional custom builders in the same place for such a picture. In 30 years, for the next generation, it would be cool for everybody to see who was who…
Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
On January 20, 2011, the unveiling in my Blog of the new Victory High-Ball pictures and tech-sheet provoked a record number of your comments, exceeding those you made after the release of the Harley-Davidson new Blackline model.. At the time you told me that you would love that I test ride it and Victory Motorcycles executives reading my Blog, one of the only 6 High-Ball available at the time (until delivery to their dealers in the coming weeks) was waiting for me at their Daytona Bike Week display. The High-Ball was launched with a very confident tagline “it’s new, bad ass and the bike you want to be seen on”… By a beautiful but very chilly Florida morning I straddled a High Ball to check on so many promises… Continue reading ‘Rolling The New Victory High-Ball’
Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
A fellow photographer in Europe has to write a feature about this very nice Bobber, but lost tech sheet information and contact with the builder. If anyone knows, please post info in “comments”. Thanks on his behalf.
Published by Cyril Huze March 31st, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Events.
Ever wondered which bikes they were about to launch as new models for your riding pleasure? The ones they scrapped at the last minute for various reasons? What were they thinking? The Harley-Davidson of Milwaukee is offering a very interesting exhibition of an exotic collection of motorcycling oddities and secret prototypes. The artifacts exhibited here for the first time run the gamut from experimental motorcycles that never made it to market to marketed products that seem downright odd to contemporary sensibilities. Some items document fascinating stories, others are completely mysterious. Together, they tell quite a tale. The exhibit will cover approximately 8,000 square feet and will also include rare films and interactive displays. From June 11 to August 21, 2011 at Harley-Davidson Museum.
Published by Cyril Huze March 30th, 2011
in Customs, Editorial and Engines.
A lot of old engine rebuilding going on in custom motorcycle shops. While giving back a new life to these old engines, why not do some upgrade to the original design? You can keep the distinctive shape of the Panhead motor valve covers and improve it by using these new covers from Nash Motorcycle Co. Made out of cast aluminum the fins are perfect to improve cooling. They fit all Panhead years (1948-1965) and are available in raw aluminum ($257) black, or polished (add $25). Nash Motorcycle Co.
Published by Cyril Huze March 30th, 2011
in Builders, Customs and Editorial.
Ron Finch opened Finch’s Custom Styled Cycles in 1965 in a small building in Pontiac, Michigan. Not only to design, build and paint striking one-off motorcycles in his own very unique extreme style, but also creating metal sculptures and other objects resisting any aesthetic classification. All along his professional career, Ron has pursued a broad spectrum of artistic activities and is highly esteemed for his ground breaking experimentations with unusual materials and paint processes.
His first nationally known custom was a 1966 BSA named “Kaleidocycle”, which prompted Ed Roth to headline him as “Michigan’s Motorcycle Madman” In 1968 Ron married Ruth and together they grew the business. He taught Ruth how to ride and built her a custom 1966 Triumph, which was painted orange and white pearl and named after her favorite treat a ”Creamsicle”! They could be seen riding together with Ron on his three cylinder BSA, called “Ron’s Rocket” and Ruth on her rigid Triumph chopper. In the late 1970’s, Ron built a Triumph Trident three wheeler named “Trilogy”, that featured the “tri” theme throughout with triple gas tanks, rear fenders, exhaust and a front end that resembles the number three.
Ron Finch’s career was interrupted in 1981, when he was hit from behind by a drunk driver, who left him and his motorcycle lying on the road. He spent six long weeks in the hospital in traction and was told that he would never walk again. His crew came in and installed wheels, a gas tank, handlebars, and a headlight on his hospital bed, so Finch could keep on riding! He left the hospital in a wheelchair, but soon progressed to crutches and eventually to his own leg power! Continue reading ‘The Secret Life Of Ron Finch’
Published by Cyril Huze March 30th, 2011
in Customs, Editorial, Engines and Events.
A message from Zipper’s Performance. “The entire staff at Zipper’s Performance Products would like to enthusiastically say “Thank You!” for the trust and support you have given our products for 30 years. As the motorcycle industry navigates through difficult economic times, we believe an enhanced focus on quality products and customer service will keep us ahead of the pack. Our customers understand the value of their dollar. They also value our many years of proven results packed into the many quality Zipper’s Performance Products we make right here in the U.S.A.
During the 1980’s, Zipper’s Performance Products helped revolutionize the aftermarket industry by making durability and performance the hallmark of our company. In 2000, Zipper’s was the first company to develop and market Twin Cam® engine kits that included the total R&D package. Now into our 30th year, the mission is still the same – Quality Products with Proven Results to meet our Customers’ Highest Expectations! Continue reading ‘Zipper’s Performance Celebrates 30 Years’
Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2011
in Customs, Editorial and Electrical.
This new Combination Analog Speedometer/Tachometer ($299.95) from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Accessories monitors engine speed without adding a handlebar-mounted tach. The speedometer and tachometer pointers sweep clockwise over a spun-aluminum face to provide a “gauge within a gauge” look.
Push-button adjustable backlighting offers more than 600 color-tone options, to adjust pointer, LCD and backlighting colors to match any paint scheme or viewing preference! The LCD information screen displays odometer/tripmeter data, miles-to-empty readings, a segmented fuel display, and a gear-position indicator. The unit mounts in the stock dash opening and is a direct plug-in installation. Kit includes a data transfer cable to upload initial mileage at time of installation.
This Combination Analog Speedometer/Tachometer fits 2009-later Dyna®, 2008-2010 Softail®, and 2008-later Road King® models equipped with a 5-inch Speedometer ($259.95) 2011 Softail models equipped with a 5-inch speedometer ($299.95) See an authorized Harley-Davidson dealer for fitment details.
Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Last weekend in Mainz, Germany during the 2011 Custom Chrome Europe Dealer Show, 103 top custom motorcycles competed for trophies in 3 categories (Modified Harley, RevTech Performance and Jammer Classes) for the title of Custom Chrome European Champion. And the big winner is this gold BSA beauty named “Son Of A Gun” by Larry Houghton from a shop called Lamb Precision Engineering LTD (Salisbury, UK). Be the first to see the best competitors (in no particular order, but all trophy winners) after the jump by clicking on the blue link below these 3 pictures. I am gathering all details on these fine machines to feature them in the coming weeks. (pictures copyright Onno Wieringa (Madness-photography), H. Roesler and F. Sander courtesy to Cyril Huze)
Continue reading ‘Best Custom Bikes At Custom Chrome International Bike Show Series European Championship (Part 1)’
Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2011
in Books, Builders and Editorial.
“Jesse James American Outlaw” – Jesse’s Memoir – will be in stores May 3rd, 2011. You are looking at the book front and back cover jacket featuring Jesse in old western gunslinger attire, .44 revolver included…
In this book Jesse tells it all about what he calls “a crazy life, a wild ride, from a volatile upbringing to becoming a successful motorcycle builder, then a TV personality, his 3 failed marriages and eventually finding salvation in the joy of fatherhood.
Jesse’s book is about his real life story, very different from what most people who don’t know him personally have imagined. To pre-order this 365-page book for shipping on 05/03/11, go to Jesse James American Outlaw.
Published by Cyril Huze March 29th, 2011
in Editorial, Events and Videos.
Tonight March 29, 2011 at 11 pm eastern (10 central) on Fox Sports Net starts the 1st episode of “The Great Ride” , an entertaining new motor sports driven television series that explores what excites, inspires and drives Americans. Produced by Natural 9 Entertainment, the new series is all about adventure, new inventions, must have products, the hottest designs and trends, it’s a high octane mix of information and entertainment. “The series is designed for everyone who loves motorcycles, trucks, RV’s, PWC’s, and are looking for great destinations to explore,” says Executive Producer and creator Jeff Androsky who serves as President of Production and Development for Natural 9 Entertainment. “We’ve been developing the series for the past two years and now have the perfect partnership in place to keep the show rolling down the highway. It’s about freedom, adventure and character… if you love America, you’ll love this show… and teaming with Rod Woodruff and The Legendary Buffalo Chip instantly makes THE GREAT RIDE a top shelf production.” Continue reading ‘Tonight at 11pm Fox Sport Net To Air New 60 Minute Weekly Series Called The Great Ride’
Published by Cyril Huze March 28th, 2011
in Builders, Customs, Editorial and Events.
Published by Cyril Huze March 27th, 2011
in Editorial and Events.
Motorcycle journalist, biker events organizer and activist Kimmy Chapman was killed Saturday afternoon around 5 pm in Phoenix, AZ after the Harley-Davidson motorcycle ridden by her boyfriend and on which she was a passenger collided with a Nissan Rogue coming from the opposite direction and making a left turn in front of them. Her boyfriend is at the hospital in serious condition. Police says that the car driver was not impaired.
Kimmy has been riding and helping others in the motorcycle world for over 30 years. She started The Biker Information Guide in 1997 and helped in the creation and organization of Arizona Bike Week in 1997 and 1998. She was also involved with the Annual World of Wheels Custom Cars, Hotrods & Motorcycle Show and many other events. She was an efficient activist to support female riders and defend biker rights. She also organized and supported several hundreds charity events. My condolences to Kimmy’s family and her friends.
Published by Cyril Huze March 27th, 2011
in Builders, Chassis and Customs.
Twin brothers Eddie and Ronnie started “Unknown Choppers” (slogan is “We’ve never heard of you, either”) hand building in their own shop a variety of frames all made out of 1.25″ DOM tubing, TIG welded and delivered with MSO.
Example is this nice looking X-Line rigid Sportster Chopper frame with 40-degree rake. But since all frames are made to order, you can choose options regarding rake and stretch. Made in the USA. Starting at $1500. Unknown Choppers.
Published by Cyril Huze March 27th, 2011
in Builders, Editorial and Merchandise.
Harley-Davidson launches an interesting Women’s Rider Comfort System (RCS) to optimize comfort (staying dry, warm or cool) in changing temperatures. Women riders and passengers can use a three-layer system providing versatile gear that makes riding more comfortable regardless of weather conditions. The key with RCS products is to stay comfortable by peeling off layers as temperatures heat up, and adding them when temperatures cool down. RCS is specifically designed to fit appropriately when worn as a total riding system to reduce bulk and increase riding comfort. Continue reading ‘New Harley-Davidson Women’s Rider Comfort System’
Published by Cyril Huze March 26th, 2011
in Editorial, Engines and Events.
The fight over increasing ethanol in gasoline from E10 to E15 is raging again. For more than 3 years the AMA (American Motorcycle Association) has been opposing increases in the ethanol level allowed in gasoline until studies show that an increase won’t damage motorcycle or all-terrain vehicle (ATV) engines, and won’t make motorcycles emit more nitrogen oxides than are allowed by the EPA.
The AMA supports the use of cleaner-burning fuels but is concerned that gasoline containing more than 10 percent ethanol could result in premature engine damage, degradation in performance and even failure. Continue reading ‘Motorcycles And ATV’s. The Ethanol Fuel Debate.’
